text:
In unflattering detail, Mueller report reveals Trump actions to impede inquiry
In unflattering detail, Mueller report reveals Trump actions to impede inquiry /node/1484741/world
People pass walk by the ABC news screen in Times Square on April 18, 2019 in New York City as the Justice Department released a redacted version of the long-awaited Mueller Report which investigated Russian Interference into the 2016 Presidential election. (Kena Betancur/Getty Images/AFP)
WASHINGTON: Special Counsel Robert Mueller's report on his inquiry into Russia's role in the 2016 US election described in extensive and sometimes unflattering detail how President Donald Trump tried to impede the probe, raising questions about whether he committed the crime of obstruction of justice.
The release of the 448-page report on Thursday after a 22-month investigation marked a milestone in Trump's tumultuous presidency and inflamed partisan passions ahead of his 2020 re-election bid.
Democrats said the report contained disturbing evidence of wrongdoing by Trump that could fuel congressional investigations, but there was no immediate indication they would try to remove him from office through impeachment.
Mueller built an extensive case indicating the Republican president had committed obstruction of justice but stopped short of concluding he had committed a crime, though he did not exonerate the president. Mueller noted that Congress has the power to address whether Trump violated the law.
"The conclusion that Congress may apply the obstruction laws to the President's corrupt exercise of the powers of office accords with our constitutional system of checks and balances and the principle that no person is above the law," the report stated.
Mueller also unearthed "numerous links" between the Russian government and Trump's campaign and said the president's team "expected it would benefit electorally from information stolen and released through Russian efforts," referring to hacked Democratic emails.
But Mueller, a former FBI director, concluded there was not enough evidence to establish that Trump's campaign engaged in a criminal conspiracy with Moscow.
Trump appeared to be in a celebratory mood, saying at a White House event with wounded US troops he was "having a good day" following the report's release, adding, "It's called no collusion, no obstruction." Trump, whose legal team called the report "a total victory," has long described Mueller's inquiry as a "witch hunt."
Trump headed to his resort in Florida for the weekend, and on landing on Thursday night told a crowd of well wishers at the airport: "Game over folks, now it's back to work."
The report, with some portions blacked out to protect sensitive information, provided fresh details of how Trump tried to force Mueller's ouster, directed members of his administration to publicly vouch for his innocence and dangled a pardon to a former aide to try to prevent him from cooperating with the special counsel.
"The President's efforts to influence the investigation were mostly unsuccessful, but that is largely because the persons who surrounded the President declined to carry out orders or accede to his requests," the report stated.
The report said that when former Attorney General Jeff Sessions told Trump in May 2017 that the Justice Department was appointing a special counsel to look into allegations that his campaign colluded with Russia, Trump slumped back in his chair and said, "Oh my God. This is terrible. This is the end of my presidency. I'm f***ed."
Attorney General William Barr told a news conference Mueller had detailed "10 episodes involving the president and discusses potential legal theories for connecting these actions to elements of an obstruction offense." Barr concluded last month after receiving a confidential copy of Mueller's report that Trump had not actually committed a crime.
Trump was wary of FBI scrutiny of his campaign and him personally, the report said. "The evidence does indicate that a thorough FBI investigation would uncover facts about the campaign and the president personally that the president could have understood to be crimes or that would give rise to personal and political concerns," the report stated.
Any impeachment effort would start in the Democratic-led House of Representatives, but Trump's removal would require the support of the Republican-led Senate — an unlikely outcome. Many Democrats steered clear of impeachment talk on Thursday, although a prominent liberal congresswoman, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, embraced the idea.
"Many know I take no pleasure in discussions of impeachment. I didn't campaign on it, & rarely discuss it unprompted," she said on Twitter. "But the report squarely puts this on our doorstep."
The House, when it voted to impeach President Bill Clinton in 1998, included obstruction of justice as one of the charges. The Senate ultimately decided not to remove Clinton from office.
The Democratic chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, Jerrold Nadler, said he would issue subpoenas to obtain the unredacted Mueller report and asked Mueller to testify before the panel by May 23.
Nadler told reporters in New York Mueller probably wrote the report with the intent of providing Congress a road map for future action, but the congressman said it was too early to talk about impeachment.
"Mueller's report paints a damning portrait of lies that appear to have materially impaired the investigation, a body of evidence of improper contacts with a foreign adversary, and serious allegations about how President Trump sought to obstruct a legitimate, and deeply important, counterintelligence investigation," the Democratic chairs of six House committees said in a statement.
Election meddling
The inquiry laid bare what the special counsel and US intelligence agencies have described as a Russian campaign of hacking and propaganda to sow discord in the United States, denigrate 2016 Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton and boost Trump, the Kremlin's preferred candidate. Russia has denied election interference.
In analyzing whether Trump obstructed justice, Mueller looked at a series of actions by Trump, including his attempts to remove Mueller and limit the scope of his probe and efforts to prevent the public from knowing about a June 2016 meeting at Trump Tower in New York between senior campaign officials and Russians.
In June 2017, Trump directed White House counsel Don McGahn to tell the Justice Department's No. 2 official, Rod Rosenstein, that Mueller had conflicts of interest and must be removed, the report said. McGahn did not carry out the order. McGahn was home on a Saturday that month when Trump called him at least twice.
"You gotta do this. You gotta call Rod," McGahn recalled the president as saying, according to the report.
House Judiciary Democrat Jamie Raskin pointed to Trump's effort to get McGahn to fire Mueller and then lie about being told to do so as an area of interest for lawmakers, and said McGahn and former Attorney General Jeff Sessions could be valuable witnesses as the committee moves forward.
"There are these dramatic episodes of presidential attempts to interfere with the Mueller investigation, and I think people would like to hear from a number of officials involved. White House counsel McGahn jumps out as an important witness," he told Reuters.
It also said there was "substantial evidence" Trump fired James Comey as FBI director in May 2017 due to his "unwillingness to publicly state that the president was not personally under investigation." The FBI headed the inquiry at the time.
Mueller cited "some evidence" suggesting Trump knew about former national security adviser Michael Flynn's controversial calls with the Russian ambassador to the United States before Trump took office, but evidence was "inconclusive" and could not be used to establish intent to obstruct.
The report said Trump directed former campaign manager Corey Lewandowski to ask Sessions to say the Russia investigation was "very unfair."
Barr, a Trump appointee, seemed to offer cover for Trump's actions by saying the report acknowledges "there is substantial evidence to show that the president was frustrated and angered by a sincere belief that the investigation was undermining his presidency, propelled by his political opponents, and fueled by illegal leaks."
"President Trump faced an unprecedented situation. As he entered into office and sought to perform his responsibilities as president, federal agents and prosecutors were scrutinizing his conduct before and after taking office and the conduct of some of his associates," Barr said.
Mueller's team did not issue a subpoena to force Trump to give an interview to the special counsel because it would have created a "substantial delay" at a late stage in the investigation, the report said. Trump refused an interview and eventually provided only written answers.
The report said Mueller accepted the longstanding Justice Department view that a sitting president cannot be indicted on criminal charges, while still recognizing that a president can be criminally investigated.
The report listed 14 criminal referrals for investigation by US prosecutors but 12 of those were fully blacked out because they are open investigations.
Mueller said evidence he collected indicates Trump intended to encourage his former campaign chairman, Paul Manafort, not to cooperate and that the evidence supports the idea that Trump wanted Manafort to believe he could receive a presidential pardon.
The report said the special counsel's team determined there was a "reasonable argument" that the president's son, Donald Trump Jr., violated campaign finance laws, but did not believe they could obtain a conviction.
The report cited Trump's repeated efforts to convince Sessions to resume oversight of the probe after he had recused himself because of his own prior contacts with Russia's ambassador to the United States.
US police overseers fire 4 officers in 1994 fatal shooting of black teenager /node/1527811/world
Updated 5 min 51 sec ago
Police Superintendent Eddie Johnson in 2016 accused the officers of either giving or approving knowingly false statements
The Laquan McDonald case has roiled the criminal justice system in Chicago
CHICAGO: The Chicago Police Board on Thursday fired four police officers for allegedly covering up a white officer's 2014 fatal shooting of black teenager Laquan McDonald.
The nine-member board found the officers exaggerated the threat posed by the 17-year-old McDonald to justify his shooting by Jason Van Dyke and voted unanimously for the dismissal of Sgt. Stephen Franko, and officers Janet Mondragon and Ricardo Viramontes. All but one voted to fire Daphne Sebastian because of violations of department rules. She was not found to have made false reports.
The Fraternal Order of Police slammed the police board for its decision, contending the officers did nothing wrong.
"It is obvious that this police board has out-served its usefulness," said the organization's vice president Patrick Murray.
Police Superintendent Eddie Johnson in 2016 accused the officers of either giving or approving knowingly false statements. None of the four were charged criminally, however they were stripped of police powers and assigned to desk duty as their case proceeded. The firings can be appealed through a lawsuit.
A Cook County judge acquitted three other officers in January of conspiracy, obstruction of justice and official misconduct charges in the case.
Former Officer Joseph Walsh, Officer Thomas Gaffney and former Detective David March were charged with obstruction of justice, conspiracy and official misconduct. Prosecutors said they lied to shield Van Dyke from prosecution. A judge rejected the contention that a video of McDonald's death proved police officers staged a cover-up.
McDonald was allegedly high on PCP and carrying a small knife in 2014 when Van Dyke exited his squad car and almost immediately opened fire. Police video released in 2015 showed Van Dyke firing 16 bullets into McDonald, many after the teen had crumpled to the ground.
Franko was accused of approving false police reports that McDonald attempted to stab Van Dyke and another officer and had in fact injured Van Dyke.
Mondragon was accused of falsely reporting that she did not see the shooting of McDonald because she was shifting the gear of her squad car. She was also accused of incompetence for not inspecting the video equipment in her car to see if it was working and recording events.
Viramontes was accused of reporting that McDonald continued to move after he shot and that he tried to get up with the knife still in his hand. He held to his statement even when an investigator showed him a video of the shooting.
Sebastian was not found to have filed a false report. However, it was determined she gave misleading and inconsistent statements to investigators that McDonald turned toward Van Dyke and another officer with a knife in a motion toward them.
Jurors convicted Van Dyke of murder in October. He's serving a more than six-year prison term.
Illinois' Supreme Court denied a bid by the state's attorney general and a special prosecutor to resentence Van Dyke. The prosecutors expressed the belief the sentence was too lenient for the crime.
The McDonald case has roiled the criminal justice system in Chicago. The then police superintendent, Gerry McCarty, was fired by then-Mayor Rahm Emanuel and the then top prosecutor, Cook County State's Attorney Anita Alvarez, was ousted by voters. Many believe Emanuel decided against running for a third term because of the case. It also led to a US Justice Department investigation that found a "pervasive cover-up culture" and prompted plans for far-reaching police reforms.
Chicago police officer who shot black teen sentenced to nearly 7 years
Obama 'deeply disturbed' by Chicago police shooting


President-elect Bolsonaro's reckless plans to industrialize the Amazon in concert with Brazilian and international agribusiness and mining interests would bring untold destruction to the planet's largest rainforest and the communities who call it home. Bolsonaro campaigned on proposals to drastically curtail the enforcement of Brazil's protections upon forests and recognition of human rights standards such as indigenous land rights. If realized, these rollbacks would have far-reaching implications for the climate and the treatment of Brazil's minority groups.
Bolsonaro didn't even need be elected to endanger the Amazon: a so-called "Bolsonaro effect" increased Amazon deforestation by 36% during the electoral period, according to official statistics.
"Bolsonaro has made clear and consistent declarations about ending the titling of indigenous lands, which are completely opposed to our rights. His racist, homophobic, misogynist, fascist discourse shows how Brazilian politics will be in the coming years," declared Dinamã Tuxá, Coordinator of Brazil's Association of Indigenous Peoples (APIB).
"Our fear is that this situation will worsen. He foments hatred and violence against indigenous peoples with a discourse claiming that we are an obstacle to development, ignoring our contributions to environmental balance. We know our titled territories help to stabilize the climate and that our preservation of these ecosystems offers collective benefits."
Dinamã's fears of violence have proven prescient. In the days surrounding Sunday's election, a wave of violence led by pro-Bolsonaro forces gripped indigenous territories, providing a grim signal of the upheaval that is to come. In Mato Grosso do Sul (MS) State, a militia burned a Guaraní-Kaiowá village to the ground, wounding fifteen people including a nine-year-old child. In Pernambuco State, a school and health clinic belonging to the Pankaruru people were destroyed. Also in MS, gunmen attacked an encampment of Brazil's Landless Workers Movement, setting fire to a home.
"The barbarism has begun," the Pankaruru people said a statement. Brazilian journalist Ricardo Kotscho agreed with the Pankaruru's assessment, writing, "There are still two months before Jair Bolsonaro [assumes the presidency], but we can already get an idea of what lies in store for the four years of his mandate."
Bolsonaro has clearly signaled that his administration's policies will be tailored to the needs of the agribusiness and mining sectors, which are vying to expand their operations into the Brazilian Amazon's protected areas and consolidate control in other regions. This week's reaffirmation that his government will dissolve the Environmental Ministry into the Ministry of Agriculture further demonstrates how environmental stewardship will be scorned under a Bolsonaro regime. Meanwhile, Bolsonaro's rhetoric indicates that his government will reward and empower some of Brazil's most conservative and virulently anti-indigenous ruralista leaders with high government posts.
"We are very worried," Alessandra Korap Munduruku, Coordinator of the Munduruku people's Pariri Association, told us. "We Munduruku people need our land to be titled. When the president says he will not title one centimeter of indigenous land, it hurts those of us who have long fought to defend our territories from the invasion of loggers and miners. When he talks of ending the ability of [environmental enforcement agency] IBAMA to issue fines and prohibits federal police from accompanying their inspection actions we suffer and are scared, even to leave our homes."
Responding to the news, Brazil's resilient and diverse social movements are mounting resistance to the president's regressive agenda. Prior to the election, thousands of organizations swiftly united to repudiate his assertion that he "will put an end to all activism in Brazil," while the National Indigenous Movement issued a statement "In Defense of Democracy and Our Rights."
"The destructive agenda announced by Jair Bolsonaro is highly aggressive to all those who struggle for justice, especially for the most vulnerable population," said Sônia Guajajara, former Coordinator of Brazil's Association of Indigenous Peoples (APIB) and vice-presidential candidate for the PSOL party. "We indigenous people have resisted for 518 years to overcome the colonial structure and we will continue resolute in our fight for our right to exist as original peoples. Our work to demarcate our territories will continue to be urgent and we will not desist. This is our struggle!"
Dinamã agreed, stating, "We will resist his hate by protesting in the streets and by filing lawsuits, despite the fact that the courts have unfortunately not fulfilled their duty to uphold our constitutional rights. We will fight as we have for the last 518 years, waging resistance to guarantee our existence."
"For us indigenous peoples this election represents a continuity of our struggle, and it encourages us to do what we have always done in defense of democracy and our rights. Today, these rights appear more threatened in every space, from our villages to the cities to our institutions," affirmed Luiz Eloy Terena, lawyer for APIB.
In this spirit, Amazon Watch will redouble its work in solidarity with our embattled partners – from remote communities in the Brazilian Amazon to the country's national organizations – to push back against Jair Bolsonaro's retrograde and destructive agenda.


text:
Yoshikazu Ozaki
Last 5 years (103)
Last 10 years (186)
Computed tomographic angiography characteristics of atherosclerotic plaques subsequently resulting in acute coronary syndrome.
Sadako Motoyama, M Torres Delgado Sarai, +11 authors Jagat S. Narula
OBJECTIVES In a computed tomographic (CT) angiography study, we identified the characteristics of atherosclerotic lesions that were associated with subsequent development of acute coronary syndrome… (More)
A novel Syk-dependent mechanism of platelet activation by the C-type lectin receptor CLEC-2.
Katsue Suzuki-Inoue, Gemma L. J. Fuller, +14 authors Stephanie Watson
The snake venom rhodocytin has been reported to bind to integrin alpha2beta1 and glycoprotein (GP) Ibalpha on platelets, but it is also able to induce activation independent of the 2 receptors and of… (More)
Multislice computed tomographic characteristics of coronary lesions in acute coronary syndromes.
Sadako Motoyama, Takeshi Kondo, +11 authors Jagat S. Narula
OBJECTIVES To evaluate the feasibility of noninvasive assessment of the characteristics of disrupted atherosclerotic plaques, the authors interrogated the culprit lesions in acute coronary syndromes… (More)
Plaque Characterization by Coronary Computed Tomography Angiography and the Likelihood of Acute Coronary Events in Mid-Term Follow-Up.
Sadako Motoyama, Hajime Ito, +13 authors Jagat P Narula
BACKGROUND Coronary computed tomography angiography (CTA)-verified positive remodeling and low attenuation plaques are considered morphological characteristics of high-risk plaque (HRP) and predict… (More)
Molecular cloning and characterization of a surface antigen preferentially overexpressed on multiple myeloma cells.
Toshihiko Ohtomo, Yasuhiro Sugamata, +8 authors Masayuki Wako Tsuchiya
Biochemical and biophysical research…
HM1.24 antigen has been identified as a surface molecule preferentially expressed on terminally differentiated B cells, and its overexpression is observed in multiple myeloma cells. The HM1.24… (More)
Sphingosine 1-phosphate, a bioactive sphingolipid abundantly stored in platelets, is a normal constituent of human plasma and serum.
Yutaka Yatomi, Yasuyuki Igarashi, +6 authors Shinji Kume
Journal of biochemistry
Although sphingosine 1-phosphate (Sph-1-P) is reportedly involved in diverse cellular processes and the physiological roles of this bioactive sphingolipid have been strongly suggested, few studies… (More)
Involvement of the snake toxin receptor CLEC-2, in podoplanin-mediated platelet activation, by cancer cells.
Katsue Suzuki-Inoue, Yukinari Kato, +6 authors Yoshikazu Ozaki
The Journal of biological chemistry
Podoplanin (aggrus), a transmembrane sialoglycoprotein, is involved in tumor cell-induced platelet aggregation, tumor metastasis, and lymphatic vessel formation. However, the mechanism by which… (More)
Sphingosine 1-phosphate induces contraction of coronary artery smooth muscle cells via S1P2.
Tsukasa Ohmori, Yutaka Yatomi, +4 authors Yoshikazu Ozaki
OBJECTIVES Sphingosine 1-phosphate (Sph-1-P), a bioactive lipid derived from activated platelets, may play an important role in coronary artery spasm and hence the pathogenesis of ischemic heart… (More)
Enhancement of sphingosine 1-phosphate-induced migration of vascular endothelial cells and smooth muscle cells by an EDG-5 antagonist.
Makoto Osada, Yutaka Yatomi, Tsukasa Ohmori, Hitoshi Higashiosaka-shi Ikeda, Yoshikazu Ozaki
Sphingosine 1-phosphate (Sph-1-P), a bioactive lysophospholipid capable of inducing a wide spectrum of biological responses, acts as an intercellular mediator, through interaction with the… (More)
Molecular analysis of the pathophysiological binding of the platelet aggregation-inducing factor podoplanin to the C-type lectin-like receptor CLEC-2.
Yukinari Kato, Mika Kato Kaneko, +9 authors Hisashi Narimatsu
Cancer science
The mucin-type sialoglycoprotein podoplanin (aggrus) is involved in tumor cell-induced platelet aggregation and tumor metastasis. C-type lectin-like receptor-2 (CLEC-2) was recently identified as an… (More)

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


text:
The Future of Marriage and Religious Freedom
October 29, 2015 Ron MarrsBook Reviews, Culture, Featured, Relationship
Truth Overruled: The Future of Marriage and Religious Freedom
by Ryan T. Anderson
Washington, DC: Regnery Publishing, 2015
256 pp. | $16.99
Ryan Anderson must have had his book Truth Overruled poised for publishing when the Supreme Court made its decision in Obergefell v. Hodges on June 26, 2015, because it hit the market three months later. Anderson cites both oral and written arguments in making his case for a definition of marriage which is in opposition to the Supreme Court's 5-4 ruling. Anderson is the William E. Simon Senior Research Fellow in American Principles and Public Policy at the Heritage Foundation. He is a graduate of Princeton University and earned his Ph.D. from the University of Notre Dame.
The Supreme Court, according to Anderson, opted to endorse the consent-based definition of marriage. He says, "The consent-based view of marriage is primarily about an intense emotional union—a romantic, caregiving union of consenting adults" (p. 15). It is about companionship. "Marriage has what all other relationships have, but more of it" (p. 15). Anderson argues, however, that this definition of marriage "cannot explain or justify any of the distinctive commitments that marriage requires—monogamy, exclusivity, and permanence—nor can it explain what interest the government has in it" (p. 15). He wonders why it should be an exclusive sexual union. He also wonders if marriage "is simply about consenting adult romance and caregiving, why can't three, four, or more people form a marriage?" (p. 15)
Anderson proposes that the superior view of marriage is the comprehensive view:
Marriage unites spouses in a comprehensive act: marital sexual intercourse is a union of hearts, minds and bodies. Marriage (like the marital act that seals it) is inherently ordered toward a comprehensive good, the creation and rearing of entirely new human organisms, who are to be raised to participate in every kind of human good. And finally, marriage demands comprehensive norms: spouses make the comprehensive commitments of permanency and exclusivity—a comprehensive throughout time (permanent) and at every moment in time (exclusive) (p. 19).
According to Anderson, this has been the position based on human nature that is found among ancient Hebrews, Greeks, and Romans. It is found among Christian thinkers, Enlightenment thinkers, and Eastern thinkers. It has been part of canon law of the Church, common law of England and America, and the civil law of Europe. Anderson would also give credence to the fact that it is the view supported by the Bible and those who follow the Bible.
Anderson addresses multiple issues that need to be faced in light of the recent Supreme Court ruling. He argues that the consent-based view serves the desires of adults, not the needs or rights of children. Religious liberty will be threatened. The ruling, he argues, has clearly overreached its authority. Adoption and foster care religious entities will be forced to abandon their ministries if they don't comply with the ruling. Religious schools are now vulnerable. Christian business people have had and will have major decisions ahead.
An entire chapter addresses the issue of comparing sexual orientation to racism. Anderson argues that bans on interracial marriage were based on racism and had nothing to do with marriage. "The understanding of marriage as the union of a man and a woman . . . has been the norm throughout human history, shared by the great thinkers and religions of both East and West and by cultures with a wide variety of viewpoints about sexuality" (p. 135).
Anderson's discussion of the definitions of sexual orientation and gender identity is valuable. Ongoing dialogue concerning these issues is inevitable, and the degree to which such discourse will be fruitful depends, at least to some degree, on whether some agreement regarding definitions can be had.
One of the most stunning portions of the book is found in chapter seven, "The Victims." This chapter asks the question, "Is there a difference for children who are raised by a same-sex couple or by their married mom and dad?" In reply, Anderson asserts the following:
As of April 2015, only eight studies have been conducted using rigorous methods and robust samples, and, when properly analyzed, they all support the previous consensus: children do best when raised by a married mother and father (p. 154).
These studies and the implications, however, have created a serious battle among social scientists with regards to sample selection, methodology and conclusions.
In conclusion, in light of what has been presented in the book, Anderson calls for the following responses:
We must call the court's ruling in Obergefell what it is: judicial activism.
We must protect our freedom to speak and live according to the truth about marriage.
We must redouble our efforts to make the case for it in the public square (p. 200).
In reading this book, I have been challenged to clarify my own definition of marriage. Anderson's comprehensive definition of marriage is sound and I embrace it. I've also concluded that the biggest apologetic for a gospel-centered definition of marriage will be healthy, God-honoring marriages among Christ-followers.
In my mind, this book is a must-read.
About Ron Marrs
Ron Marrs is presently a Professor of Youth and Pastoral Ministry and Chairman of the Center for Ministry and Leadership at Western Seminary, Portland, OR. Ron is the leader of the Portland Youth Workers Network. He served at Westwood Baptist Church, a Converge church, for 24.5 years primarily as the youth pastor and then as executive/worship pastor. He has been married to Becky for 35 years, has three children and three grandsons. He is an elder at Hinson Baptist Church. He recently completed doctoral research in which he interviewed 26 people about their rookie youth pastor experiences along with 24 of their supervisors.
Tagged biblical view of marriage, consent-based marriage, Obergefell v. Hodges, Ryan Anderson, Same Sex Marriage, Truth Overruled: The Future of Marriage and Religious Freedom
Contextualization Is Not Optional
Faculty Spotlight | Dr. Todd Miles


There are so many baseball players affected by the yips (even though you may feel that you are the only one who can't consistently make accurate throws).
Can you relate to the following experience?
In LSU's Game One match up against TCU at the 2015 College World Series, LSU pitcher Jared Poche inexplicably had difficulty throwing to first on two routine grounders.
Poche retired the first nine batters he faced before his two errors eventually leading to poor command of his pitches.
Poche's two throwing errors were out of character since he previously only made two errors all season.
After the game, LSU head coach Paul Mainieri talked about how the yips and the mental aspect.
On his first yipped throw, Poche fielder a grounder and attempted to soft toss the ball to the first baseman but instead lobbed the ball well over his teammate's head.
The very next batter sent a comebacker to Poche who yipped again pulling the first baseman off the bag for his second throwing error.
Poche's teammate and fellow starting pitcher Preston Morrison was shocked by Poche's errant throws because of the amount of repetitions the pitcher take in practice.
So if you want to get over the yips, you need to get over the fact that the yips are mostly mental.
It is that mental component that causes you to jerk or twitch as you are in the middle of your throwing motion.
The yips are a product of a mental inference that got in the way of you making an effective throw.
If you can re-tune your focus, you can get rid of that mental static that causes errant throws.
You need to understand that the yips are a blip in your thinking.
Instead of fielding and just throwing, you field the ball and think about the throw while you are throwing the ball.
Basically, you are trying to throw the ball instead of relying on your natural ability to throw.
Understand that your throw does not need to be perfect. You don't need to throw it perfectly in the glove… there is an acceptance zone that will allow your teammate to field the ball.
Concentrate on the natural pace of your throw. You throw should be quick with some pace instead of hesitant and deliberate. Focus on the pace of your throw instead of guiding the ball to the target.
The yips are beatable if you take the right mental approach.
Inability to throw or pitch freely (despite the fact that you can in practice)?
Anxiety, tension and over control of their action?
Performance anxiety about what others will think?
Super low confidence with the yips-infected mechanics?
Feeling like an alien has taken over your body and you have no control?
If you can throw well when alone, but can't take it to games, this is a mental game issue and not a physical challenge!
"Breaking The Yips Cycle" is a complete brain dump of the TOP Eight mental training sessions I do with my personal coaching students to help them overcome the yips and play with freedom again.
Two CDs (CD purchase only). 120 minutes of mental training sessions to help you gain greater freedom, focus on the right performance cues, and simplify your prepitch routines.
MP3 Audio (Digital Download). 120 minutes of mental training sessions you can download to your computer right away while you wait for the CDs and workbook to arrive. (MP3 Audio value = $149).
An 8-Session Breaking The Yips Cycle Workbook to guide you through my mental game sessions and to overcome the throwing yips (Workbook value: $149.00).
Bonus Session: Practice drills to free up your throwing to help you improve consistency and stop focusing on mechanics when you play.
Do you throw accurately in practice, but lose control in games?
Learn how to over come the throwing yips!
Download our FREE Throwing Yips Report and learn how to break the yips cycle and throw freely and confidently again!
What are ball players and coaches saying?
Beat The Throwing Yips With Expert Mental Game Coaching!
~Rick Hall, Baseball Coach, Daytona Beach C.C.
To rebuild your confidence, you must begin to throw freely and not over control. The over control is often about worrying about what others think about your game.
Is Missing Throws a Mental or Physical Problem?
Dr. Patrick Cohn is a master mental game coach who has helped baseball players and golfers overcome the yips cycle for over 10 years. In addition, he's work with top athletes in the world for more than 25 years.


During the expansion of the Roman Empire, Thrace was absorbed into it. One of the most famous heroes of this time was the Thracian soldier Spartacus who became a symbol for freedom. He was captured by the Romans and then sold as a slave and later a gladiator. A few years later, with 70 of his comrades, Spartacus escaped, hid on Mount Vesuvius, raised a large army of rebel slaves and attempted - unsuccessfully - to free his homeland.
Within a couple of centuries, while the Byzantium, Bulgarian and Ottoman Empires were developing their cultures and economies the Thracians merged with Greeks, Bulgarians, Slavs and Turks and the true Thracian culture became unclear until archaeologists began to make some unique finds dating back to early Thrace.
treasures - but also with the history hidden within them.
The golden mask of a long-dead warrior king found in Svetitcata (near Shipka) contains more than half a kilogram of solid gold and was made in the 5th century BC. This extremely rare hand-made mask is amazing, with its realistic shape and size of the face displaying incredible detail.
the stone wall there is a corridor that leads to an inner hall and the centre of the temple.
Another astonishing find was a figure of the helmeted goddess Pallas Athena - the like of which has never been seen before in Bulgaria. The artefacts found in the temple's chamber were used as a bed on top of which the king's dead body was laid. Tombs containing vast amounts of ancient treasure such as were found at Goliama Kosmatka shows that this was the last resting place of a very rich and powerful man. Outside the temple the archaeologists discovered a unique bronze head, part of a statue of an ancient Thracian ruler.
Many of the Thracian treasures are currently on exhibit all over the world to encourage an interest in this most fascinating aspect of Bulgarian cultural history.
With the growth in cultural tourism, which has been fuelled by discoveries such as those mentioned above, the long dead Thracian kings may be able to aid the State Agency for Tourism in its quest for a more suitable label, which truly reflects the cultural significance of this once mighty land.


Show off your property and beautiful home with a beautifully lit front yard. Lantern post lights add a touch of elegance to any home from wooded yards to grand suburban homes. Our street light styled lighting options create attractive path lighting. Each is custom-made constructed from durable solid steel, you can customize the type of metal finish and art glass panel to best fit the look of your home.
Can't find what you love? Contact Brass Light Gallery. We build to suit and custom design one-of-a-kind lantern post lights.


Students Together Against Cancer was founded in July of 2012 by Jeremy Payne. In seventh grade, Jeremy was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma and was forced to miss most of the school year while undergoing treatment. Jeremy beat the disease, but he realized cancer's impact reaches far beyond a person's health.
According to a 2009 survey conducted by the Association of Oncology Social Work, 55 percent of cancer patients stated that "the stress of dealing with costs negatively affects their ability to focus on their recovery." In many cases, patients are forced to choose between receiving treatment and paying utility bills. Jeremy wanted to find a way to alleviate additional stressors for cancer patients and their families so that they may focus solely on beating the disease.
… to provide emotional and financial assistance to local cancer patients.
… to provide students with practical opportunities to develop skills in their areas of interest.
… to assist other cancer-related organizations and initiatives.
The STAC Grant is a $400 one-time donation made to individuals who meet and agree to the STAC Grant Restrictions and Income Requirements. Once an individual is approved to receive the STAC Grant, funds are distributed as either (a) grocery gift cards, or (b) checks written directly to utility companies. Learn more about or apply for the STAC Grant by clicking below.
Students at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln can get involved by joining the UNL STAC registered student organization (RSO), which meets once a month.
Because STAC is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit, individuals can make a tax-deductible contribution to our cause. Donations can be made online or mailed check.
High school students in Lincoln, Nebraska can get involved by joining the STAC Club at their high school. Two Lincoln high schools currently have clubs.
STAC is growing, and increased community awareness and involvement helps our cause. We'd appreciate if you shared what we do with your friends and family!


Style and relationship goals all in one.
Selena Gomez showed up on The Weeknd's Instagram stories on Friday night, looking stunning in a black top, pants, and sporting a black velvet blazer with crystal-studded lapel over her shoulders. The blazer was a jaw-dropping sight from Saint Laurent. Perched atop a couch, photographer Abel visible in the mirror in the background, Selena was surely a sight to behold. It wasn't until later that night that we learned who the gorgeous jacket really belonged to, though, when The Weeknd subsequently posted an Instagram selfie wearing that very same look.
The couple attended the Harper's Bazaar Icons party on Friday night, where The Weeknd hit the red carpet wearing the blazer, along with a pair of black pants, white tuxedo shirt, and black bowtie. Selena, on his arm, wore a pale pink turtleneck mini dress from Valentino. It seems as though Selena gave Abel's look her stamp of approval, styling it on herself long before it was time to change into her own red carpet look. And, might we add, she looked stunning borrowing from the boys. This jacket might just have to make it back into her wardrobe at some point in the near future.
Selena's all-black look, for those seeking a similar style, is from designer Zoe Jordan. You can purchase the top here and the pants here. As for the tuxedo jacket? It will run you at about $3,400, but you can take a peek here if you're in the market for a splurge.


text:
Q: Correcting askers who do not follow up When I ask a question I always follow up with the answers that are arriving. I upvote good answers and I give feedback to answers which did not help me. I downvote answers missing the point. I always accept an answer if there is a correct one.
It seems that many askers do not follow this discipline. I consider this to be a problem. Good answers are being neglected and deprived of their "vote reward". Bad answers do not receive feedback which might have helped the answerer to improve his approach to answering.
When I answer, and I receive zero votes and zero comments, I am disappointed. I want to know what came out of the time that I invested. I'll be happy to take positive and negative feedback.
Is the Stack Overflow system doing enough to encourage askers to follow up with every answer rigorously? What more could be done?

A: No one owes you feedback. Least of all, quasi-real-time feedback.
No one forces you to answer all questions. Least of all, questions asked by people who don't provide the feedback you crave.
Not everyone shares your concerns. You're not the only person who craves feedback on answers, but plenty of others follow a more r-selective approach.
So, if you care about feedback, check out a user's prior behavior before investing energy in answering that user's questions, and decide accordingly.

A: I agree with Shafique that most users do NOT know how sites like stack overflow work.  And that is partly the reason they don't give feedback.  I see nothing wrong with encouraging users to provide feedback, i.e. post the answer and then write in parenthesis (e.g. if the answer works for you please acknowledge that it did). Most people do recognize that time and energy, especially when there is no $ exchanged, is a SPECIAL thing! They just need to know how to 'say thanks-ask more questions-communicate' on a busy looking webpage with too many things to click.

A: I suspect that many users do not know what is expected of them. This is completely normal - when I was new I asked crap questions, too. I had to clean some of them up later when I "grew up".
This might be a cultural issue. Not very different from weak/eroding corporate culture. We have a steady instream of "culturally untrained" members which is eroding culture. Btw, culture for me means "the set of behaviors and attitudes in common use".
There is a fairly straight-forward way to establish culture/behaviors: tell people what is expected. What is good behavior that we will reward, and what is bad behavior that we will hold you accountable for? Often, people are good-willed and want to comply.
My proposal: the system should generate a message to the inbox/mailbox of the asker after a few days when it detects that a low level of feedback was given. The message should say something like:

"Hope you've been happy with the answers! The answerers are awaiting your feedback now. Please make sure to follow up with them to show your respect and to help them improve."

I'll leave the precise specification of this feature to the Stack Exchange team. Maybe we can even send the message (almost) always for one month and observe the difference in behavior. This could even be statistically determined by the level of activity per question.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


text:
InnoRenew CoE and the University of Primorska successfully organised the international congress Woodrise 2022
The Woodrise 2022 congress was held in Bernardin on 6-7 September 2022 under the honorary patronage of the President of the Republic of Slovenia Borut Pahor. More than 200 international participants attended the congress to listen to lectures about the best examples of sustainable construction from around the world.
Opening of the inspirational keynotes at Woodrise 2022. Image: UP
Among the keynote speakers was Hans Joachim Schellnhuber, the mastermind behind the development of the New European Bauhaus, whose inspirational speech highlighted the urgency of action to mitigate climate change: "If we keep global warming below two degrees, which is very difficult to achieve, we can prevent many natural disasters. We can achieve this by fundamentally transforming the built environment and by using more wood, which is storing the carbon dioxide. We already have the first opportunity now, when it will be necessary to renovate Ukraine's cities, ruined because of the war."
Hans Joachim Schellnhuber. Image: UP
All keynote speakers were also part of the roundtable discussion. They shared their thoughts and views on multi-storey timber construction, and current architectural and engineering developments. In particular, they focused on the renovation, rehabilitation and reconstruction of existing buildings using timber construction technologies.
Woodrise 2022 roundtable discussion. Image: UP
The congress included thematic workshops where a number of research projects on timber construction and the latest developments in the performance of tall timber construction were presented. Additionally, research projects were presented in a poster exhibition. Further, the travelling exhibition "Women Ambassadors Creating the Future of Wood Science" was also part of the congress. Among the ambassadors is Dr Andreja Kutnar, InnoRenew CoE director and University of Primorska's professor.
InnoRenew CoE reserach posters. Image: UP
From 8–9 September 2022, attendees joined the technical and business tours of the construction and wood processing industry in Slovenia and the surrounding region.
Woodrise 2022 is grateful to its sponsors – Securo AS, SHERPA Connection Systems, Schmid Schrauben Hainfeld, Langzauner, Sema Software, Rothoblaas, Beck Group, Hasslacher Norica Timber, iQwood, CBD, Jelovica hiše, M Sora and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Slovenia.
Image: UP


In a new position paper, GACAG said harmonisation of global customs procedures will play a pivotal role in establishing e-Customs platforms and has pledged the support of the entire air cargo industry in this effort.
Michael Steen, chair of GACAG, said: "Air cargo already transports goods worth in excess of USD5 trillion, representing roughly one-third of global international trade."
He went on:"Specifically, GACAG urges WCO members to embrace and implement the principles of the Revised Kyoto Convention and to shift from a dependency on paper to an e-Customs environment, which will stimulate economic development, remove inefficiencies, and lead to much-needed productivity gains."


Published: May 16, 2018 at 10:59 p.m.
Updated: May 17, 2018 at 2:27 a.m.
MEMBERTOU, N.S. — A pair of old rivals will meet in the Cape Breton High School Rugby League championship game next week.
The Riverview Rugrats boys' and girls' teams advanced to the league championship game with wins over the Sydney Academy Wildcats in semifinal action in Membertou on Wednesday.
With the wins, the Riverview teams will now play the Glace Bay Panthers for the Highland region title next week.
In girls action, Virginia Braggio led the way for the Rugrats with 24 points including two tries and seven conversions as Riverview romped to a 59-0 win over the Wildcats.
Rebecca MacKeigan, Abbey Parago, Madison MacInnis, Kelsey Langlois, Morgan Lunn, Sherity Ethridge and Courtney Cameron each added a try for the Coxheath school.
"I'm super proud of all the girls, we worked really hard and everything that we've been working on in practice came through," said Lunn, a graduating player on this year's Riverview squad.
Meanwhile, in boys' action, Braiden Sullivan had three tries and Austin Leamon had a try and a conversion as Riverview edged Sydney Academy 22-21.
Daniel Petrie had a try and three conversions, while Bryce McCormick chipped in with two tries for the Wildcats in the loss.
The championship games for both divisions will take place next Wednesday in Membertou with the girls hitting the field at 5 p.m., followed by the boys' game at 6 p.m.
The Nova Scotia School Athletic Federation rugby provincials will also be held in Cape Breton this year with Glace Bay High School hosting the province's best Division 2 teams, June 1-2. The field is to be determined.


More than 1 million people have yet to renew their tax credits ahead of the 31 July 2018 deadline, HMRC has warned.
Those who miss the deadline will see their payments stopped, and will have to pay back the tax credits they have received since 6 April 2018.
Last year, 320,000 customers missed the deadline and had their payments stopped or altered as a result.
HMRC is urging those who have not renewed their tax credits for 2018/19 to do so online, through the government website or HMRC app.
Tax credits can also be renewed by phone or by post.
"We've improved our services so customers can renew their tax credits at a time that's convenient to them but the 31 July deadline is fast approaching.
"I urge customers who have yet to renew their tax credits to do so as soon as possible, to avoid their payments being stopped."
Talk to us for advice on tax credits.


The JPK Project has been formed to provide a much needed Supported Living Centre for people with a learning disability in Eastbourne and the surrounding areas. You can make a difference by donating to the Project.
By registering with easyfundraising.org.uk and selecting the JPK Project as the cause you would like to support you can donate as you shop online with no cost to you. There are over 3000 retailers who give a commission easyfundraising.org.uk a commission every time you purchase which gets turned into a donation and given to the cause you've selected.


text:
PROGRESSNOW NM - THE VOICE OF NEW MEXICO'S NEW PROGRESSIVE MAJORITY
PROGRESSNOW NM (https://progressnownm.org/?author_name=marianna)
Marianna Anaya
ProgressNow NM Names Big Election Day Winners!
By Marianna Anaya | November 7, 2019
Tuesday night was another HUGE night for female candidates, public schools and progressive values up and down New Mexico ballots! Are you confused about ranked-choice races and races that resulted in a run-off? No worries! We're here to give you the scoop on top races we watched. It's time for an election rundown!
Same-Day Voter Registration & Municipal Elections: What You Need to Know!
By Marianna Anaya | October 8, 2019
Sometimes, finding all the voting information you need in one place is hard! Look no further, friends! ProgressNow NM is here for you every step of the way- from early voting and same-day registration to Election Day and voting locations. See below for a one-and-done guide to getting your vote on! Important Dates (Statewide)
October 8- Absentee Ballots MailedOctober 8- November 2- Statewide in-person registration and early voting at County Clerk's Offices, 8am-5pm.October 19-November 2- Statewide expanded early voting.
ALEC Exposed: Names of NM Elected Officials LEAKED
By Marianna Anaya | August 23, 2019
Some elected officials hold town halls to listen to constituents. Some send out surveys and others hold gatherings at parks or churches.
In New Mexico, however, some elected officials and community leaders choose to get their marching orders from corporations with extreme Right Wing agendas.
Enter ALEC: The American Legislative Exchange Council. If you haven't heard of this group before, you may have seen some of their policies either at the Roundhouse here in New Mexico or at the national level. They're a Washington-D.C.-based, corporate-sponsored "think tank" that basically believes our society should be run like Gilead- see Handmaid's Tale for reference, or, click here for a list of their bills. (Spoiler alert: abortion bans, "Right-to-Work" laws, privatization of public schools, voter suppression, climate change denial, etc.)
A couple of weeks ago, ALEC held their conference in Austin, Texas.
New Mexico PreK And the Terrible, No Good, Horrible, Very Bad Lottery System
By Marianna Anaya | July 24, 2019
A little over three and a half years ago, freelancer Sascha Guinn Anderson and her family moved to New Mexico from the state of New York. Her family's decision to move here was not based on a business or tax incentive, but rather, was based on the promise of a public, Pre-Kindergarten early learning program (PreK) for their children. "In New York, basically you buy your way into PreK," said Anderson. She explained the inequitable and lengthy process of securing a spot: Beginning at age two, families often pay for their children to enter expensive, private, early childhood programs in order to later be grandfathered into neighboring, public, PreK programs for three and four-year-olds. Anderson recalls mounting pressure to register her two-year-old in an expensive, early learning program.
PRC Withholds $40 Million from Displaced San Juan Workers
ABOVE: Copy of the ProgressNow NM Press Release Regarding the Recent PRC Decision on the San Juan Abandonment
Universal Pre-K: New Mexico's Bold Next Step
By Marianna Anaya | July 3, 2019
Last week, we asked our readers their opinion about every three and four year old having access to high-quality, universal pre-k. Responses indicated that high quality, universal pre-k is not only a priority for families with young children, but it is also of importance to our community as a whole, providing a strong, educational foundation for future generations as well as an opportunity for New Mexico to improve pay for pre-k teachers, many of whom utilize food stamps and Medicaid to help make ends meet.
Our readers wrote to us with their pre-k stories- both the good and the bad, a reflection of the current state of our pre-k system. Some readers talked about the ways in which the pre-k system helped ready their own children for school, while educators chimed in about the difference they were able to see when a child has attended pre-k. Others, frustrated with the system, talked about the never-ending wait-lists, the lottery system that only serves a small portion of the population of three and four year olds, and the shameful pay that keeps some pre-k educators living in poverty. However troublesome, these stories are not new.
**UPDATED-GOP Staffer: Blacks Should Thank Whites Post-Slavery
By Marianna Anaya | June 28, 2019
Yep, you read the headline right. This week, GOP Staffer, Stella Padilla, added to her own barrage of hate-fueled social media posts with a new image depicting deceased Civil War soldiers, the text above it reading: Over 620,000 White People Died to Free Black Slaves And Still To This Day Not Even 1 Thank You. (See below for original post and enlarged, *graphic* image.)
This is the same GOP contractor who sought to exploit the conditions in which asylum seekers were going to be housed in Albuquerque. After trespassing, she and GOP side-kick Dinah Vargas were kicked off the closed campus for unauthorized filming. You would think that the GOP-which has incessantly beaten the drum on Real ID initiatives, and is obsessed with people's birth certificates would have done their due diligence to vet a prospective employee.
Progress Now NM Welcomes New Progressive Voice
Last fall, our boots-on-the-ground grassroots movement helped ensure we elected more progressive legislators to office. This January, we pushed progressive policy issues to the forefront at the Legislature. It's now June, which means our calendar is stacked with municipal elections, legislative interim committees and a clock that's counting the days until primary season! Fortunately, our Progress Now New Mexico team is growing to help keep you informed every step of the way! We're excited to welcome another team member ready to fight battles on behalf of our progressive community.
Picket Planned After Workers Snubbed During Negotiations with UNMH
Last week, the National Union of Hospital and Healthcare Employees Local 1199, started a series of pickets against UNM Hospital (UNMH) after entering into contentious contract negotiations where local nurses, caregivers and staff would lose benefits that are already provided to them if they sign a new negotiated agreement. Now, the union is asking for community support in turning up the heat on UNMH. This Thursday, June 20 at 5:30pm, the union will hold another picket on Lomas, outside of UNMH. Members request the presence of community allies who believe in better working conditions, fair pay and respect for workers. The picket comes on the heels of UNMH's deal to provide their CEO a cash compensation as high as $155,000 in addition to a base salary of $620,000.
beyond carbon
Mayors Keller and Bloomberg Announce Climate Action Partnership in Albuquerque
The Bloomberg partnership will expand on this work in New Mexico, with one goal listed as making Albuquerque 100% renewable-energy-powered within the next five years.
Search for News You Need:
ProgressNow State Leaders Call For Vote Limiting Trump's Power & Condemns Trump's Hostile Rhetoric Which Puts All Americans In Danger
Happy Birthday New Mexico, you beautiful Capricorn you
info@progressnownm.org
625 Silver Ave SW #320
© Copyright 2020, PROGRESSNOW NM


Parenthood is often described as a journey - but we're here to tell you that along with all the good stuff, some days can feel more like a wild and crazy expedition than a walk in the park. This is why it's important for you and your partner to prepare yourselves for the most common challenges that parents face, and know how to work through them as a team.
Because when you do, that's when you'll all start to really thrive!
but not for your marriage.
If you're planning on doing education sessions through your local hospital, ask first if they cover early parenting skills and co-parenting relationship information. If they don't, request that they consider adding it in - because research shows this preparation is good for your birth experience and also for actually adjusting to your new life after you get your baby home. That's HUGE!
Some educators are more experienced and comfortable talking about these topics than others. Your midwife or other care provider might be able to provide this information instead, so ask them. Other options to consider are hiring a private educator, doula, or even a relationship coach who specialises in early parenthood.
Ask your provider to equip you with information on how to prepare for your recovery in the postpartum weeks (often called the "fourth trimester"), how to build up a support system, manage breastfeeding (it's harder than it looks!), how to soothe and settle bub and education on how to minimise risks for perinatal mood disorders such as anxiety and depression. With this information you can plan ahead for your new life a little more and focus on the most important things: nesting, resting and bonding.
That's the best start for your whole family - and for you all well into the future!
Find our FREE seven page fully customisable post-partum plan to help build YOUR nest, at the end of this article.
Start a family-friendly exercise routine that you can pick up again after bub comes. Exercise is a great for managing normal new parent stresses!
Know that the two of you aren't likely to be able to handle it all all the time, especially at the times when bub or one of you is sick. Make a list of people you can count on to do chores, shopping, cooking etc. to take the pressure off.
Don't expect life to get back to normal. It's up to the two of you to work together to create the "new normal" for your family. Life after baby isn't so much about "getting back on track" as forging a new path! This will take some time.
Self-care and couple-care is important. Support each other in resting, taking breaks, having time out and time together too.
Expect to learn. Parenthood is like going to a place you've never been before, and experiencing things you've never experienced. So don't try to be experts and do things perfectly. Your baby doesn't care about that. Be learners, explore, experiment, stuff up, support each other - and you might just find that's half the fun!


text:
How The Bush Administration May, Or May Not, Influence American Tort Law
HOW THE BUSH ADMINISTRATION MAY, OR MAY NOT, INFLUENCE AMERICAN TORT LAW: DID THE PHILIP MORRIS STOCK REBOUND MAKE SENSE?
By ANTHONY J. SEBOK
anthony.sebok@brooklaw.edu
Monday, Dec. 18, 2000
Last Friday, just before the whole stock market took a post-Bush victory dive, Philip Morris reached its new fifty-two-week high of $42 per share. This was not just a new high for the year. Philip Morris hadn't seen $42 since March 1999. In fact, Philip Morris—despite its very rich balance sheet and high profits—had been, until recently, selling for less than $20 a share.
The recovery of Philip Morris's share price—along with those of all other "Big Tobacco" companies—is just one indication that some people (who control a lot of money) think that a Bush victory will make a difference to tort law in this country. Are they right?
Why Bush's Influence Will Be Limited: Tort Law Is Mostly State Law
The influence of a Bush administration on tort law in this country might travel along a number of paths. Bush controls, most directly, his own Executive Branch, including the Justice Department. He will, with the Senate, determine the selection of federal judges, including any new Supreme Court Justices should a vacancy become available. And Bush, as President, will have the power to shape, and ultimately sign or veto, federal legislation. These tools give Bush a limited, but not insignificant set of powers over America's tort law.
But the most important thing to remember in any discussion of tort law and the federal government is that tort law is overwhelmingly a matter of state law.
Even when a tort case is brought in federal court, it is usually because of the court's "diversity" jurisdiction, meaning that citizens are from different states. In diversity cases — as opposed to "federal question" cases — the federal court only takes the case because the parties happen to live in different states (partly to eliminate state court bias against out-of-staters). Accordingly, things are supposed to proceed roughly as they would if the parties had been neighbors, and the case had been tried in the state court across the street.
Most significantly, a federal court in a diversity case is obliged to follow law of the state determined to be the appropriate venue. (In contrast, in a "federal question" case, just as you might think, federal law is applied and issues relating to that law are resolved.)
Bush's Power to End Federal Tort Suits Against the Tobacco and Handgun Industries
Taking Bush's powers in the order I listed them above, it is obvious that his power over tort law in America is inversely related to the scope of his control. For example, Bush's new Attorney General will have almost total power to halt (or, in bureaucrat-ese, "review") all ongoing suits by the Justice Department that do not suit the new President's views. This means that a lot of aggressive activity on the part of the Civil Rights Division, for example, will come to a grinding halt. The same might be true of the Antitrust Division.
What does this mean for federal tort litigation? Most of the Justice Department's current tort docket is relatively apolitical, with the striking exception of some suits I have written about earlier—litigation against the tobacco and handgun industries. The RICO claim against the tobacco industry that is currently before a federal judge in Washington, D.C. is, I suspect, going to disappear. And Andrew Cuomo's threat to lead the Department of Housing in a suit against various handgun manufacturers will also dissolve when Secretary Cuomo moves back to New York in January.
The tobacco and handgun industries have steadfastly claimed that they could beat these suits in court. Still, they are, I am sure, quite happy not to have to fight them. Nevertheless, this does not mean that these industries will not face lawsuits from other quarters—for the litigation threat posed by private parties and state and local governments, whose suits the Bush Justice Department will not generally be able to quash, remains quite real.
The Influence Bush-Appointed Federal Justices and Judges May Have on Tort Law
Since many federal judges are called upon to interpret state law in tort cases between parties from different states, Bush's influence on the ranks of new federal district and circuit judges is not unimportant.
Clearly, the politics of judicial selection turn on many issues, and tort law may not be salient in the minds of those advising Bush, but the influence of a conservative judiciary will be felt in torts as well as other, more obvious areas of constitutional law. For example, the case that, in my opinion, destroyed the hopes of class action lawyers to create a jurisprudence of national class-action lawsuits, Castano v. American Tobacco, was decided by three Fifth Circuit judges, each of whom was appointed by either President Reagan or former President Bush.
The U.S. Supreme Court is a little more difficult to evaluate. The Supreme Court recently supported the Circuits' skepticism about allowing national class actions when the Court, ironically, struck down national settlements that imposed mandatory terms even on plaintiffs who would have wanted to opt out and sue on their own, rather than join the class. On the face of it, this move might seem anti-plaintiff and pro-industry. But the politics of the decision are not actually so clear.
The Court, in striking down mandatory settlements, has angered not only the plaintiffs' bar, but also the asbestos industry — which sees mandatory class actions as the only way for the industry to escape death by piecemeal litigation in hostile state courts. Still, to the extent that Bush will want to help out the asbestos industry, he is unlikely to do so by appointing judges who will loosen the limits on national class actions (a move that would ultimately be seen as anti-business). Instead, he might do so by supporting Congressional limitations on the right to sue.
That takes us to Bush's final and weakest tool. Many observers hope that a Republican in the White House means that "tort reform" legislation will finally have a chance in Congress.
Over the past twenty years, tort reform has come to mean legislative limitations on plaintiffs' common law rights in tort. Tort reform has been a rallying cry in state legislatures, and activists representing the insurance and manufacturing industries have had some success in statehouses' passing statutes that cap damages, modify contribution rules, and immunize certain defendants from litigation.
Needless to say, the views of the Republican and Democratic parties have hardened over this issue, almost in direct proportion to the source of their funding. (It should surprise no one that the trial lawyers were the second largest donors to the Democratic party, after teachers). Nonetheless, the politics of tort reform at the national level is a little more complex than one might think.
Given that tort law is primarily state law, it has always been difficult for certain (principled) Republicans to enthusiastically support what, in effect is a massive expansion of federal power into the states' sovereign affairs. And, given the extraordinary waste created by our current tort system, it has been difficult for certain (principled) Democrats to ignore the need for a federal solution to especially outrageous abuses.
Thus, we saw the interesting phenomenon that in 1998, Senator Joseph Lieberman was one of the driving forces behind an unsuccessful effort to legislate a national coordinated settlement facility for all outstanding asbestos claims. (Currently, three-quarters of all asbestos court costs are consumed by lawyers and administrators). The bill he proposed was opposed by trial lawyers and his own party.
Bush's Texas Tort Reform: A Possible Precedent
Bush comes into office with a history as a tort reformer. Campaigning for his first term against Ann Richards, he promised to get tough with the trial lawyers. And as soon as he took office, he proposed a tough, eleven-part assault on Texas' tort system.
Bush succeeded in getting most of his bill passed — although even some Republicans in the legislature thought the original bill was too extreme. (For example, Bush proposed limiting punitive damages only to cases where the plaintiff could prove that the defendant had criminal-type intent, a limitation no state tort reform, to my knowledge, has ever adopted).
The resulting 1995 bill capped punitive damages to either two times economic losses plus an amount equal to non-economic losses (up to $750,000), or $200,000 (whichever was higher); limited joint and several liability to defendants at least 50% at fault; and made it more difficult to file "frivolous" medical malpractice claims.
It is hard to predict how much Bush will want to do in the area of tort reform, given how little political capital he has. The Democrats are stronger in Congress than they have ever been in years. On the other hand, one cannot assume too much just by counting party affiliation. Lieberman's influence has been magnified by the past campaign, and he is likely to return to questions of tort reform, an issue about which he feels strongly. There may also be other Democrats who will feel emboldened to follow Lieberman if they believe that, unlike with earlier asbestos and products liability reform bills, the White House will support their efforts.
I do not think, however, that the political will exists in either party to support a more broadbased assault on state tort law — regardless of how much that law is despised by the major donors to the Republican party such as the tobacco, insurance, and various manufacturing industries.
In theory, the Commerce Clause of the U.S. Constitution might give the power to the Congress to do in every state what Bush did in Texas—cap punitive damages, dictate the rule of defendants' respective contributions towards paying judgments, etc. But such a move would so violate deeply-held principles of federalism that I cannot imagine enough Republicans stomaching the hypocrisy. (Although, after last week's cavalier treatment of state sovereignty by the Supreme Court, I can now imagine the Rehnquist Court upholding a Bush Tort Reform Act, despite its recent, constricted Commerce Clause jurisprudence.)
An Election Irony: Nader Voters May Have Damaged Consumer Safety
A final note. The cruelest irony of all in the election of 2000, in my opinion, is that, in addition to the pressures that a Bush White House may bring to bear to curtail the interests of plaintiffs, there is every reason to believe that consumer safety will suffer the most.
That is not only because there will be Bush appointees in the various agencies responsible for monitoring manufacturers, or because of Bush federal judges, or because of the almost certain prospect of a products liability reform bill. It is also because Ralph Nader is now effectively out of the picture.
Before he became the Green Party candidate, Nader was one of the Democrats' most effective allies in the constant struggle over the definition and application of consumer safety rules. But for obvious reasons, Nader is now no longer welcome in the offices of Dick Gephardt. Even if the Democrats get the chairmanship of a few Senate committees, such as the Commerce Committee, I don't think Nader will be asked to testify any time soon.
Nader's role as a lobbyist on behalf of consumers, and as a powerful counterweight to industry, is finished. And that is probably also true for the various organizations with which he was connected, such as Public Citizen, and its director, Joan Claybrook. I imagine that it will take a long time before a prominent Democrat chooses to accept a phone call from any part of the Nader camp.
Thanks, Ralph. Somewhere, lobbyists for General Motors and Philip Morris are smiling and toasting you.
Anthony J. Sebok, a FindLaw columnist, is a Professor of Law at Brooklyn Law School, where he teaches Torts, among other subjects. Professor Sebok's prior columns, on subjects including handgun and tobacco litigation, may be found in FindLaw's archive of his pieces.


I'm having chai this morning with my friend Monika Jain, who is the editor of Kahani Magazine. If you've not yet learned about this fantastic publication, you're missing out! Insider tip for writers: Monika makes outstanding chai.


text:
Sue Farr
Interim Senior Independent Non-Executive Director
Appointed: September 2022
Membership: PLC, ARC, NomCo, RemCo (Chair)
Marketing and communications knowledge
Extensive plc non-executive roles, including in the position of chair of remco
Experience of transformation and managing change
Sue has over ten years' experience as a PLC non-executive director, spanning a variety of sectors and scale of business and she has extensive remuneration committee experience, both as a member and as chair of the committee. She was previously a non-executive director of Dairy Crest Plc and Millennium & Copthorne Hotels plc (where she also chaired remco).
She has considerable experience in marketing, branding and consumer issues from her positions at the BBC and Chime Group, along with automotive experience at General Motors Vauxhall.
Sue's marketing and communications experience, involvement with transformation and managing change and a deep understanding of consumer habits gained over the course of career are important to the long term-sustainability of the Group and achieving our strategy.
Non-executive director and chair of the remuneration committee of Helical PLC
Non-executive director of Accsys Technologies PLC
Senior independent director of British American Tobacco p.l.c.
Non-executive director of Unlimited Group Ltd


Netgear are soon to release the NeoTV 350 HD and NeoTV 550 Ultimate HD Media Players, allowing you to play movies, music and photos stored on your computer or external hard drive, on your TV.
Either you plug in a hard drive, flash drive or SD card and play the content, or SD card, or hook the Netgear NeoTV up with your home network, and play content stored on your networked devices.
Two NeoTV models will go on sale in December. The NeoTV 350 HD Media Player will have an RRP of $169, and the NeoTV 550 Ultimate HD Media Player will sell for $249 RRP.


text:
'use strict';

const inits = require('inits')
const monitor = require('../lib/monitor.js')

inits.standalone(monitor.start)

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


text:
Long Island Immigrants Aggressively Targeted In ICE Raids, Report Shows
By Jano Tantongco -
(Image/IDP Map)
In the latest report published by the Immigrant Defense Project (IDP) tracking ICE raids, immigrants in New York, including on Long Island, are being aggressively targeted whether outside courthouses or simply being passengers in a taxi, putting them onto a fast track for deportation.
The ICEwatch report — with an accompanying map showing where the raids occurred — draws from Freedom of Information Act requests, information from community organizations, and reports from legal aid programs.
"ICE relies on fear-mongering, secrecy, deceit, manipulation, and force to enact its devastating deportation mandate to deport as many people as possible," Genia Blaser, IDP's senior staff attorney said in a statement, as reported by City Lab. "By making the reports of their dehumanizing tactics widely available through [this map], we aim to inform the public and community members around the escalation of 'unshackled' ICE policing."
In the IDP's overall assessment of the data, they conclude that ICE enters homes without required voluntary consent; employs deceptive ruses, including pretending to be police; surveils immigrant communities; and outrights uses — or threatens the use of — physical force.
The report comprehensively compiled more than 650 narrative accounts of the raids around the New York metropolitan area since 2013. The report refers to targeted immigrants by their initials.
On September 25, 2017, ZD was arrested after leaving Nassau County Supreme Court in Mineola with his mother. Two vans with "POLICE" written on them stopped the taxi they were in just three blocks from the court. Plainclothes ICE officers asked everyone in the taxi for identification, and arrested ZD when he could not produce an ID. At the time, they refused to share any information with his mother. Later, ZD called her while in custody, and she learned that the agents were ICE and not police.
On February 23, 2017, plainclothes ICE agents stopped a taxi in Bay Shore with guns drawn and pulled out JAQ, and shoved him against the vehicle. They left the taxi driver with all of JAQ's personal belongings and did not explain who they were.
Weeks earlier, on February 7, an immigrant known as CJ was arrested after dropping off his daughter at a school bus stop in Bay Shore. They then took his keys, and drove his car to the home of his former partner, who owned the car, and told her that they had arrested him.
A map showing where raids occurred, with brief accounts, can be viewed here. The full report can be read here.
Previous articleNew Data Shows "Zero Tolerance" Policy Is Only Used Against Families, Not Other Border Crossers
Next articleRally Saturday in Huntington Against Family Separation
Jano Tantongco
Jano Tantongco is the online editor of Long Island Wins. He's previously worked in community journalism as a staff reporter for The Long Islander and The Queens Courier. He aims to pursue truth through a combination of rational inquiry and intuition. He also enjoys bossa nova, road trips and zen philosophy.
Protesters Demand Amazon End Development of Facial Recognition Technology for ICE


FAQ's About Hypnotherapy - Leslie Bouché, C.Ht.
Q. Will I lose control?
Can the therapist make me do anything I don't want to?
A. No! You will not lose control over yourself during hypnosis. In fact, the only way you can go into hypnosis during a hypnotherapy session is by choosing to do so. You cannot be hypnotized against your will. And you can choose to come out of hypnosis at any moment simply by opening your eyes. The hypnotherapist does not exercise control over a client, and she cannot make you do anything you don't want to do. Hypnotherapy is really about you learning to have control over yourself - your thoughts, reactions, and behaviors.
Q. Is hypnosis safe and effective?
A. Yes! Hypnosis, when provided by a certified hypnotherapist or other qualified clinician, has been accepted as safe and effective for therapeutic purposes by the National Institutes of Health. Some medical or psychological conditions may require a referral from a doctor or psychotherapist. Hypnotherapy is meant for rapid self-improvement and as a complement to, not a substitute for traditional medical treatment.
Q. What issues can hypnotherapy help me with?
A. Hypnotherapy is helpful for a variety of emotional attitudes and issues, and physical behaviors and conditions. A partial list includes weight reduction, smoking cessation, stress management, anxiety relief, grief and loss, anger management, relationship issues, habit control, fear of public speaking, motivation, self-esteem, self-confidence, fears and phobias, insomnia, assertiveness, pain management, accelerate healing, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), memory, concentration, test anxiety, enhancing creativity, letting go of the past, sports enhancement, and so on.
A. Actually, anyone can be hypnotized! Some people, however, are more readily hypnotized than others. This depends on the client's willingness, motivation, and comfort level with doing this type of therapy, combined with the level of rapport and trust he/she has with the therapist.
Q. Who can benefit from hypnotherapy?
A. Hypnotherapy is safe and effective for people of all ages: adults, young adults, teens, and children over three years of age. The sessions are customized appropriately for each age and each individual.
A. Hypnotherapy is considered "rapid therapy" as compared to standard psychotherapy. However, there is no set number of sessions. Each person is unique, so it will depend on you, as an individual, and what changes you want to accomplish for your life. However, hypnotherapy is not a "magic bullet" that will create instant change. As with anything else in life that is valuable, some time and focus is required. Working together, we can help all your realistic goals to be achieved!
Q. Will my sessions be confidential?
A. Yes. I am committed to the rules of professionalism and confidentiality in my practice. Your session will be safe, professional, and entirely customized to your individual needs.
Q. Does hypnotherapy over the phone really work?
A. Yes! Hypnosis is experienced with the eyes closed, so it can work as effectively over the phone as in person. For some individuals, the convenience and comfort of phone sessions from home is preferable.


Rejuvenate and become one with yourself again. In the midst of chaos, join the Healing Garden at the festival for daily yoga practices, massage, herbalism, dance classes, sound baths, Reiki, and educational talks. Elements has said that they're excited and humbled to offer this supportive community space to connect, tune in and learn. Snaps to that!
Get up close and personal on the Fire Stage & watch death-defying pro-BMX bikers jump over crushed cars, towering fire cannons, and more.
Experience the spectacle inside the festival's brand new dome as the battles of the elements take place, screaming and swinging into the night.
Stay hydrated by stopping by multiple water stations throughout the festival and take a breather under one of our numerous shade structures.
A post-apocalyptic interactive theater experience titled "The Center for Elemental Findings," will make you search to re-find the building blocks of humanity.
Check out the the full phase 2 lineup below, and purchase both weekend and single-day tickets here while they're still available!
Griz, Zeds Dead, Flying Lotus, The Knocks, Kerri Chandler, Bakermat, Barclay Crenshaw, Brodinski, Catz n' Dogz, Chri ake, Damian Lazarus, Dj Jazzy Jeff, Ekali, Giraffage, Justin Martin, Max, Michael Calfan, Nora En Pure, Shiba San, Almand, Camelphat, Chet Porter, Croatia Squad, Fleetmac Wood, Gilligan Moss, GG Magree, Gorje Hewek & Izhevski, Jesse Perez, Kasbo, Melvv, Mome, Pusher, The Sorry Entertainer, SteLouse, Tennyson, The Golden Pony, Volac, Alex English, Daniel Cowel, Dirty Looks, Jackal Jyze, Hiyawatha, Matt Sebastian, Motum, Option4, Patrick Grooves, and (Tr)otter.


text:
Q: Test if SSH private key has password protection I'm trying to test if ~/.ssh/id_rsa is actually password protected.
When you run ssh-keygen you can choose an empty password, and I'm trying to detect this.
Is that possible with a one-liner?

A: If you open the private key file in text editor you will be able to see ENCRYPTED in the second line of the RSA/DSA key file.
For example:
 -----BEGIN RSA PRIVATE KEY-----
Proc-Type: 4,ENCRYPTED
DEK-Info: AES-128-CBC,373B504621779D53C72BADE597C531A0

A: If you execute:
ssh-keygen -y -f ~/.ssh/name_of_key

you will get key printed if there is no password like this:
ssh-keygen -y -f ~/.ssh/id_dsa
ssh-dss AAAAB3NzaC1kc3M....

If there is password of the key you will be asked for it

A: I don't have enough reputation to comment, so I add here.
Thanks to  @Ulrich-Schwarz , I extended his answer to check all my keys (the one i generated, so I have the puublic/private pair) in my $HOME/.ssh/ :
for l in $(ls $HOME/.ssh/*.pub)
do         key=${l%.*}
   if SSH_ASKPASS=/bin/false ssh-keygen -y -f $key < /dev/null > /dev/null 2>&1
   then
       echo -n "NO  password: "
   else
       echo -n "YES password: "
   fi
   echo ${key}
done


This one is Really Offensive..
Wearing a Hippy Headband,all Blinged out and Carrying a Cattle Prod?!!..
WTF is with the Cattle Prod?!!..
Everyone,you won`t be charged admission,and no collection will be taken..
Anyone who doesn`t mind being followed around by WBT$ JW Security all day if your not a JW..
No admission will be charged and no collection will be taken..Because..
They`re going to ask you to fill up those WBT$ Contribution boxes with MONEY,Right From The Stage!..
THE WBT$ IS NOT AFRAID TO ASK FOR MONEY,ONCE YOUR IN THE DOOR!!..
He must be looking for all his dark chocolate lost sheep.
They had God speaking in a couple dramas but we couldn't see him or we would die.
The WTS always says people today don't know what Jesus looks like but it doesn't stop them from picturing him in the WTS publications as a white man although he was Semitic.
The WTS says that while jws pray THROUGH Jesus and not to Jesus, that he does not hear the prayers, only GOD????? Like a mailperson with a sealed letter who never opens it.
Why is Jesus made of white chocolate?
Watchtower teaches that bible passages to the effect that Jesus is coming in the clouds, refers to Jesus' coming being invisible, unseen by human eyes and discerned only by the spiritually awake, i.e. JWs. I think this is the idea they're attempting to portray by painting Jesus in a color that matches the clouds in the image. They're essentially camouflaging Jesus to blend in with the clouds to portray the Watchtower idea of him coming in the clouds invisibly. If they did not make him the same color as the clouds in the image then he would look conspicuous among the white clouds and that would disprove their claiming that coming in the clouds means coming invisibly.
I think this proves they come on this forum. We have been pointing out that they barely talk about Jesus, so now this year they have been responding.
So I'm following Jesus by fading from the sight of the organization?
Is that what "invisibly present" is supposed to look like? Somewhere between ghostly semi-visibility and dipped in white chocolate? Or is this white chocolate dipped zombie Jesus?
And I think maybe he's carry a drum major's baton. Is he trying out for a university marching band? Maybe that's why he came to earth!?
Okay, in the 60s it was Armageddon this and Armageddonm that and the 70s was The Nations Shall Know that I Am Jehovah, and the 80s, 90s, 2000s banged on about a lighter version of Armageddon and They'll all know we've been warning them. And now its about...why Jesus came?
After hammering on for so long aboutthe urgency of Jehovah's Day, they serve up a limp dish about why Jesus came in the first place with no highlighting of his urgently expected second coming.


text:
A Sustainable Future
Cape Verde has "built a Create identity of its own at the junction between Africa and Europe".
Trinidad and Tobago: Toward a modern Caribbean economy
Trinidad and Tobago represents one of the most Important players in the Caribbean market.
South Africa: a pioneer in technology and innovation
Despite the persistnece of negative reporting on the South African economy, the country remains the most economically and technolgically advanced on the African continent.
Thailand: Knowledge as the path to growth
Thailand is a nation on an upward trajectory. Evidence of the foundational strength within the Thai economy, retained despite temporary troubles is GDP growth on an upward curve.
Antigua & Barbuda: Investing in Paradise
Antigua and Barbuda, a twin-island paradise. The Tourism Authority promises "the beach is just the beginning" and they're not far off the mark.
Bahrain: Expanding into the future
Intent on alleviating its dependence on oil, Bahrain has become increasingly encouraging to foreign direct investment (FDI). The kingdom's Economic Vision 2030, launched in 2008 by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, sets forth a comprehensive plan for the country's development.


text:
Thailand #1 in Best Places to Visit in Thailand
Courtesy of Luciano Mortula/Getty Images/iStockphoto
Best Things To Do in Bangkok
Shoppers take note: Bangkok boasts everything from flashy high-end malls to very affordable mass markets like Chatuchak. You're also bound to discover a number of streets with shopkeepers selling specialized goods (namely jewelry and silk). When your wallet needs a rest, you can visit the city's beautiful temples – the Wat Pho and Wat Arun – two of the most popular in the city. There's also the opulent Grand Palace where you can see the sacred Emerald Buddha. Let your trip to Bangkok culminate in a leisurely float down the Chao Phraya River; it's the perfect perspective from which to appreciate this bustling city.
#1 in Bangkok
Churches/Religious Sites, Monuments and Memorials, Sightseeing
Wat Arun, meaning "Temple of the Dawn," is named for the Hindu god Aruna, God of Dawn. And fittingly, this 270-foot temple is glorious to behold at dawn or sunset. The temple is covered from top to bottom with mosaics, pieced together by Chinese porcelain. To experience it, visitors can pay a small admission price to climb inside the temple's central prang, but keep in mind that the steps are steep and the stairway is very narrow.
Many travelers rave about Wat Arun for its beauty and tranquility – that is if you get there before the crowds. Recent visitors report crowds here aren't as bad as they are at the Grand Palace or Wat Pho but it's still best to get here early if you want to experience the attraction at its most peaceful. No matter what time you go, be sure your knees and shoulders are covered. And depending on where you go in Wat Arun, you may be required to take your shoes off.
Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha)
The Temple of the Reclining Buddha, known as Wat Pho in Thai, is a Buddhist temple complex which is most known for its gold-plated "Reclining Buddha" sculpture. The Buddha measures 151 feet long and is 50 meters tall, making it the largest reclining Buddha statue in Thailand. The complex also houses the most Buddha's in all of Thailand. Along with the famous reclining Buddha, Wat Pho features a whopping 394 Buddhas that can be found spread out between four different chapels on-site.
In between all of the opulent statues, ornate pagodas and striking stonework spread throughout, you might be surprised to learn that you can get a massage here. In addition to being a place of worship, Wat Pho is also an education center that focuses on traditional medicine and massage therapy. You'll definitely be in for a cultural experience should you choose to do so, but make sure to research what a Thai massage is before you go (they're generally considered pretty painful by American standards).
Shopping, Free, Neighborhood/Area
The Chatuchak Weekend Market is one of the biggest street markets in the world. It sprawls more than 35 acres and contains somewhere in the neighborhood of 15,000 shops and vendors. Here, you'll see a multitude of goods for sale, from fruit to puppies to clothing, antiques and more. The best way to navigate this mammoth market is to grab a map at the information offices on the edge of the market. Chatuchak is broken up into 27 different sections, but don't expect them to correspond to one type of good sold. Everything is completely spread out, and while it definitely overwhelmed some travelers, others found the energy of the market completely enthralling.
Travelers recommend visiting in the morning when there are fewer crowds and the heat isn't oppressive. But considering an average of 200,000 people visit this market per day, you're going to have to share space with lots of locals and tourists regardless. Visitors say you shouldn't be afraid to bargain here, as some vendors are willing to come down on their prices. Also, make sure you bring lots of cash. Most vendors don't accept cards and many travelers said they walked away buying way more than they had initially planned.
Castles/Palaces, Sightseeing
The Grand Palace will probably be on the itineraries of most first-time travelers to Bangkok. That's because the complex once served as the residence for multiple Thai kings, their royal courts, as well as multiple branches of government, including defense and treasury departments. Though royalty nor the government has resided here for hundreds of years, that hasn't stopped tourists from making a detour. Should you venture within the palace's walls, you'll find numerous ornate structures that feature an interesting mix of Thai and European-style architecture. But the most popular site in the palace by far is the Wat Phra Kaew temple, which houses a sacred emerald Buddha statue.
Recent visitors say the palace is definitely something to behold, but strongly suggested planning before you go. The first thing you need to consider is your apparel. Travelers say the attraction adheres to a strict dress code. Here, shoulders and knees must be completely covered, so be sure to bring pants or a long skirt with you. If you don't have the appropriate attire, you can purchase clothing on-site. The palace is also insanely crowded, to the point where some travelers didn't even enjoy their time there. If you can swing it, arrive as soon as the attraction opens. And if you want to really understand the history behind the palace (and there's a lot of it), many visitors suggested securing a tour guide while there, which you can find on-site. Those who did hire a tour guide appreciated the attraction a lot more and were happy not having to wander the complex around wondering which buildings held what significance.
Bangkok Art & Culture Centre
Museums, Free
The Bangkok Art & Culture Centre (BACC) is a relatively new mixed-use arts space. Many liken its contemporary architecture to the Guggenheim, and the artwork inside – which ranges from painting to performance – pushes the aesthetic envelope just as much as the pieces in the famed New York City museum. A lot of travelers like the BACC simply because it's something to do other than shopping or going to a holy site. And unlike many of Bangkok's other top attractions, crowds are limited here, making it the best environment to admire the facility's cool art.
BACC is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Admission is free. To reach the BACC, take the skytrain to the Stadium National stop; the center is located at the Pathumwan Intersection. For more information, visit the website.
Jim Thompson House
Historic Homes/Mansions, Monuments and Memorials, Sightseeing
Following World War II, American architect Jim Thompson decided to settle down in Thailand and during his time in the country, ended up resurrecting Thailand's struggling silk industry. The ins and outs of the silk industry are fascinating, but many find his home (which was constructed from six different Thai homes) even more so. And Thompson's mysterious disappearance – he went on a vacation and was never heard from again – gives this attraction even more allure. The architecture of the Jim Thompson House, along with its late owner's enigmatic history, is what draws visitors here. Travelers also enjoy its charming grounds and the in-house cafe.
Travelers say it's easy to miss the Jim Thompson House. If you take the Skytrain to the National Stadium stop, you'll find the house due north right along the Saen Saeb Canal. The complex is open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and the admission price (which includes a tour) costs 150 baht (or about $4.50). For more information, check out the Jim Thompson House's website.
Explore More of Bangkok


Click here to verify if your tire size qualifies for Road Hazard Warranty.
Tires must be registered 45 days from purchase date.
A combination of the letters "DOT" Followed by 8 to 13 letters and/or numbers.
Thank you! Your tire(s) have been registered.


text:
const Promise = require('es6-promise');
const highland = require('highland');

function chaiStream(chai, utils) {
  require('./assert')(chai, utils);
  require('./expect')(chai, utils);
}

module.exports = chaiStream;


Introducing a new way for Automotive Dealers to be empowered.
Strategy Mob is an affiliate partnership program for leading technology companies involved in automotive across North America. Membership is based on awareness of leading technology in addition to maintaining an honest and straight forward reputation based on integrity and delivering real measurable results for dealerships.
The main aspects of the program include a quarterly high-quality printed magazine sent out to dealerships, dealer groups, industry gurus and OEM executives throughout North America as well as a companion community website strategymob.com. Strategy Mob Magazine allows for a wealth of content for readers to help improve their day to day operations as a dealership from some of the brightest minds in automotive. Automotive dealers and vendors are invited to become part of Strategy Mob's website community at strategymob.com. The site features videos, product reviews and solutions, plus the ability to sign up/join to submit articles on automotive industry topics.
Strategy Mob was launched October 5th, 2015 in Las Vegas as part of the Digital Dealers 19 conference.
Read (PDF): StrategyMob_01_Todd_Lawson or online here.