After a few months of staying put in Berlin, I finally had the chance to travel again and visit my favourite city in Europe, Budapest.
This city has long meant much to me. My first trip to Budapest was in December 2010. I fell in love with everything from the architecture, to the ruin bars, to the thermal baths, and more. I couldn't get enough and have come back countless times since. Each time I return, I make a point to walk along the Danube and across the Chain Bridge. Taking in that panoramic view is always a heady experience, from Buda Castle, to Fisherman's Bastion, and the Parliament Building. It was also the last place I visited before I left Europe in 2012. With tears streaming down my face, I walked across the bridge, stared at my surroundings, and said goodbye to a city and a continent I loved. I vowed I'd be back someday, even when I wasn't really sure it would ever happen.
By some miracle, I moved back to Berlin and fell back into my old/new life at the end of 2014. Since returning, I've visited Budapest twice. Once in February 2015 where I hunted down street art, as well as the coolest places in Budapest to hang out. After way too long of a delay, I finally found myself there again in February. I set out to revisit some well known tourist attractions, as well as get to know some more off the beaten path locations.
Read on to get the lowdown of how me, a "professional travel blogger" chose to spend her weekend in Budapest. Find out where to sleep, where to eat, and what to do in order to make the most of a fast 48 hours in this thriving city.
This post is the first in a new series that I'm introducing here on the blog, featuring weekends guides to various places I frequent around Europe. Watch this space, as I plan to add more destinations in the near future. Since Budapest is my favourite city in all of Europe, it only made sense to start with Budapest.
Recommended reading: Read what fellow travel bloggers had to say in their Budapest weekend guides. Start with this post from Hand Luggage Only – How To Spend A Perfect Weekend In Budapest or read Weekend in Budapest from Kaley.
What should you expect from this guide? An overview of how I spent my weekend, how much things cost, and loads of practical tips.
I chose to call the Marmara Hotel my home away from home for the weekend. This small four star boutique hotel, with a contemporary Oriental theme, is centrally located close to both the Grand Boulevard and Nyugati Railway station. Maybe I'm getting old, but I liked that the hotel's a bit of distance away from the hustle and bustle of District VII where it can be hard to get a good night's sleep due to all the crazy parties happening late into the night. As the hotel only has 93 rooms, it's fairly quiet there as well and you'll find yourself being able to rest pretty easily.
The hotel has a friendly and helpful concierge staff who are there to help 24 hours a day, whether it be booking you an airport shuttle, buying a ticket to the thermal baths, or recommending a restaurant for dinner. There's also a small lobby bar where you can indulge in a nightcap before retiring to your room for the evening. Wifi is free and available throughout the hotel. Marmara Hotel also offers breakfast and while it's nothing spectacular, you can expect the standard spread of breads, fruits, yogurt, meats, eggs, etc.
I booked a single room with a view overlooking the street. While the room was on the smallish side, it had everything I needed like a minibar (I totally broke open a bottle of red Hungarian arrival right after I checked in!), a flat screen television with many English channels, a desk area for work, a hotel safe, etc.
The cost for two nights with breakfast included was €146 (about 46,000 forints).
As I checked into my hotel around dinnertime, I was totally famished. I hadn't had a meal since breakfast and was eager to eat alllll of the Hungarian food. I didn't have to venture far either as I chose to dine at Matula Bistro, just down the street from the hotel.
Before I tell you more about the restaurant, I need to make a confession. As is the case time and time again, I'm a very bad travel blogger and make mistakes. I'd taken some beautiful photos of the establishment, as well as my dinner, but I accidentally deleted them when I was moving the photos from my SD card to my Macbook. My apologies, as now you'll need to imagine what the tasty food looks like. Better yet, don't imagine and visit this traditional Hungarian restaurant the next time you're in Budapest.
More popular with locals than with tourists, this place is highly rated on Facebook and Google. Serving up authentic Hungarian food, Matula Bistro has a massive menu (in both Hungarian and English) and an extensive wine list. They also offer a daily menu with special dishes. Cool without being pretentious, friendly wait staff who speak English, and affordable prices all make Matula a good dinner option.
While there, I ordered a dark Hungarian beer and a red wine boar stew with mushroom dumplings and a blueberry marmalade. The portion size was just right and the meal was delicious. Although I didn't have it, online reviewers praise the fish soup as a starter.
Because I was tired and recovering from a cold brought on the "beast from the east", this wrapped up my night in Budapest. I returned to my hotel and got to bed early in order to get an early start on Saturday.
The cost for dinner which included a main and two beers was €12 or 3500 forints.
After having a leisurely breakfast at the hotel, I was off for the day! My first destination was the McDonalds in nearby Nyugati Railway station.
While you might think, "WTF, Cheryl? Why would I ever visit a McDonalds? Why are you recommending this as a must visit tourist attraction?" Pause for a moment and take a look at the photo above. Really look at it, even stare it for a while. This might be the single most beautiful McDonalds location in the world!
I wrote about this stunning McDonalds in Budapest back in 2011. Aside from the fact that we all find it staggering my blog has been around this long, just come to this place, bask in all of that baroque and colonial architectural glory, and think about the fact that this was the very first McDonalds in Budapest when it opened in 1988. It was a sign of the coming times, as the Communist reign over the country ended not long after.
For the record, I didn't eat or drink here (promise!). I just popped in for the photo op. But no one will blame, shame, or judge you if you want to stay put for a while taking advantage of the air conditioning (Budapest can get way hot in the summer), the free wifi, or even the food or drink.
As I was making my way to Heroes Square by foot, I came across this very weird group of naked statues set in a Epreskert Garden. As I love all things weird and offbeat like the hands sculpture in the Venice grand canal or river surfing in Munich, this stopped me in my tracks.
Epreskert Garden has been a hot spot for art in Budapest for more than a century. Once an area used to farm mullberries, the land was later given over to artists who transformed it into a public art space and a thriving artists' colony by setting up studios, establishing gardens, and building various pavilions. One artist, Alajos Stróbl went so far as to dismantle an old chapel and transfer it the site stone by stone. The Hungarian University of Fine Arts came to call Epreskert Garden home as well.
The garden's only open to the public on specific occasions, and unfortunately, it was closed when I was there. Regardless, I stood there transfixed, taking photos, and gazing at the figures of men and women of varying ages and body shapes. I would've loved to go in, walk around for a while, and learn about why these sculptures are there, who created them, and more.
Continuing on, I made my way to Heroes Square, a place I've visited tons of times and one that somehow always manages to imprese me. Built to mark the 1000th anniversary of Hungary, construction on Heroes Square began in 1896 and finished in 1900. Now the largest square in Budapest, the monument features the seven chieftains of the Magyars, several other national leaders, and the Tomb of the Unknown Solider. It also plays host to various national events throughout the year.
The Millennium monument in the middle is topped by the Archangel Gabriel who looks down on the chieftains below him. Each of the colonnades to the left and right feature other notable Hungarians.
Flanking the square, is the Museum of Fine Arts, as well as the Kunsthalle or Hall of Art, spaces both worth visiting if you have the time. While in the square, you can also glimpse Vajdahunyad Castle off into the distance.
Pro tip – visit during the day and then come back again to see it at night. Trust me, it's worth coming back a second time.
After Heroes Square, I took a walk through Budapest's City Park when I spied a bunch of locals ice skating beside the Neo-Baroque/Gothic/Romanesque Vajdahunyad Castle. At 15,000 square meters, this is Europe's largest outdoor ice rink, with special areas for children and speed zones for the more talented skaters among us.
Swoon! Yes in Europe, dreams do come true. Being a woman from Canada, the idea of skating beside a historical landmark like a castle makes me all giddy inside. I actually didn't skate when I was here and just watched them for a while, but I made note to go ice skating here in the future. It's said to look especially enchanting by night and I couldn't imagine a better way to spend an evening in Budapest. What an incredible date night spot this would be … hint, hint, future boyfriends of mine!
The rink is typically open from November – March, weather permitting. It's open daily – check this schedule for exact hours. Skate rental is also available.
Fees range from €4 – 7 or 1200 – 2000 forints, depending on the day of the week. Credit cards are accepted.
Finishing my stroll through City Park, I again stopped (notice I do this a lot) to take in the steam rising off the pond and to further with my obsession with taking photos of birds.
I'm not sure just why, but over the years, I've gained this bizarre habit of taking photos of birds whenever I travel. I've fond memories of going on extreme photo shoots with ducks on a bridge in Verona, swans and ducks on the ice in the pond near the City Hall in Reykjavík, and swans in the castle gardens in Schwerin.
The single top highlight for most people travelling to Budapest is to hit up one of the many thermal baths. And the most popular one, Széchenyi thermal bath, is popular for a reason. Not only is it one of the nicest baths in the city, it's also the most fun.
Situated in yet another Neo-Baroque palace which opened in 1913, Széchenyi's the largest medicinal bath in Europe and features 15 indoor pools, three huge outdoor pools, and 10 different saunas. There's even an activity pool with a whirlpool which will literally propel you to float around in a never ending circle. The pools are heated by two thermal springs that average temperatures somewhere around 74 – 77 degrees Celsius. Even during the coldest weather when you throw off your towel, squeal like a maniac, and run like the wind towards the pool, it's like stepping into a big, warm, welcoming bath tub but just with a lot of other people. The waters are full of various chemicals which are said to be healing, especially good for joint pain, blood circulation, and nervous system disorders.
The pool's almost always packed full of people. It's all part of your Széchenyi experience. You'll find selfie stick wielding tourists and Instagram stars wearing sponsored bikinis, as well as locals, many of them who come at 6:00 am in order to avoid the crowds. You may even spy some old men passing the day away by playing chess on floating boards. When you need a break from the hot waters (no more than 20 minutes at a time is recommended for the hotter pools), grab a drink from the small bistro.
Aside from the various bathing and sauna options, you can further your spa experience by booking a massage, facial, or pedicure. I've enjoyed a Thai massage there a couple of times.
Book ahead: Skip the line with this day pass for Széchenyi Baths or add in a VIP massage.
Széchenyi also hosts parties each Saturday. Cleverly known as "sparties", the baths turn into a big, wet, crazy rave that lasts long into the night with loud music and plenty of drinks. Imagine wading into a hot sud filled outdoor pool with a cup of beer and dancing the night away under the stars with hundreds of other super drunk people. For some, this induces a panic attack or revulsion to think how gross the pool must get and for others (like me), it sounds like one hell of a fun night out.
The pool's open daily all year round from 6:00 am – 10:00 pm to both men and women. Swimming caps are required for the cold outdoor pool. You can rent or buy things like towels, sandals, and other necessities there, but you can save money by bringing your own.
A full day ticket with cabin starts at €20 or 600 forints. However, admission prices vary depending on how much time you spend there, which day of the week you visit, and what things you buy or rent like a towel. Check Széchenyi's website for more details.
9) Stop for a Glass of Hungarian Wine Because … Wine Not?
It may be obvious that I like to drink on my holidays, but as Hungarian wine's one of my favourite alcoholic indulgences, it's hard to resist having some when you're there in the country. While making my way back to my hotel, I stopped by Ádám kávé és borház for a quick drink.
This small café even has a resident dog who you'll likely spy lounging about somewhere inside. It's the perfect place to have a glass of wine, a cup of coffee, or one of their sandwiches or cakes. For a different experience, come back at night when it gets quite busy with local residents.
A glass of wine will run you about €3, close to 1000 forints.
As it was getting to be late afternoon, I was once again hungry (in Hungary!). Bad jokes aside, I was drawn into Lana Bistro as not only was it close to my hotel, but they offered super tasty chicken wings which are tough to find in Europe.
As I have a weakness for chicken wings and even though I knew I should've been eating some more sophisticated Hungarian fare, I couldn't help but have a late lunch here. While Lana Bistro does actually offer some Hungarian dishes, their mainstay dishes come in the form of American comfort food like burgers, pulled pork sandwiches, and fish and chips. I went with the tempura and BBQ chicken wings with fries and another glass of Hungarian wine.
The main dish came to just over €7 or 2290 forints.
In a bit of a food coma, I returned to the hotel for an afternoon nap only to come out later to have some good old fashioned fun at the Budapest Flipper Museum.
Recommended reading: This informative piece – Budapest Pinball Museum: Budapest's underrated tourist attraction is the best in the world and another article from Travel and Leisure, You'll Flip for Budapest's Pinball Museum.
The Budapest Flipper Museum was undoubtedly one of the most surprisingly fun experiences that I've had in a long time. Although it's a museum in the sense that it houses more than 115 old and new pinball machines and 30 other types of games from as early as 1871, it's also interactive. The machines are fully functional and you can play all of them. Better yet, one ticket guarantees you unlimited hours of play. The place has gained such a cult following that it's now one of Budapest's top rated attractions on Trip Advisor, currently sitting at 15 of 558 things to do in Budapest.
Owner Balazs Palfi became fascinated with pinball machines at early age during the 80s. As an adult, he was able to realize his lifelong dream when he opened the museum in 2014 after collecting machines for more than 7 years and importing them from more than 16 different countries.
Housed in the basement of a residential building, walking through the museum's 400 square meter labyrinth is a pop culture journey through time. There's the tabletop bagatelles from the 19th century, classic machines from the 1930s, Star Wars and Indiana Jones games from the 1970s, and more modern ones featuring the Simpsons. There's several musical themed pinball machine including ones for Kiss, Elvis, the Who, and Guns and Roses. Amongst the rarer finds are the Hercules which is the biggest pinball machine in the world, the Mesovonat (the only known Hungarian made pinball machine), and a 1920s hockey table.
Technicians work very hard to keep the machines functioning and Palfi even goes so far as to dub them artists. It's easy to understand why as you can't simply buy new parts and the work involved with a fix is painstaking. They either fashion new makeshift parts or take them from other old dismantled machines. At any given time, the Flipper Museum has more than 40-50 games in stock, reserving them for when other machines are down while others are still awaiting restoration.
Guests tend to be more foreign than local, which I can't understand as if I lived in Budapest, I'd be here all of the time. The Flipper Museum even has pinball tournaments! As it's a pretty family friendly establishment hosting children's birthday parties and the like, you cannot buy alcohol on site, but there's a snack bar offering junk food and soft drinks.
What I like best about this place, outside of the obvious fun of playing pinball for hours on end, is that it gets you off your phone and has you live in the moment. You can just focus on playing the games and having a good time. Even when I thought I'd blitz through the place, I ended up staying for 90 minutes.
The museum's closed Monday and Tuesday and is open Wednesday – Friday from 4:00 pm – midnight, on Saturday from 2:00 pm until midnight, and on Sunday from 10:00 am – 10:00 pm.
Admission is around €10 or 3,000 forints.
Leaving the warmth of the Flipper Museum, I set out for a long walk through the cold Budapest night, and made my way to the larger than life Hungarian Parliament. Opened in 1902, this enormous building is the third largest parliament in the world and combines Neo-Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architect architectural styles. Throwing down some impressive numbers, the parliament building has 691 rooms, 20 kilometers of stairs, and reaches a height of 96 meters.
Guided tour are available when parliament is not in session and cover the main entrance, main hall, one of the lobbies, House of the Lords, and a glimpse of the rare Hungarian crown jewels. Tours take about 45 minutes and are available in several languages.
Book ahead: As only a limited number of tickets are sold each day, plan in advance in order to snag a ticket and avoid long lines by booking online. If you'd also like to be picked up from your hotel for your tour, book here.
The best views of the Hungarian Parliament building are from the water by taking a Danube river cruise by day or night and from across the river, specifically at Batthyány Square. Walking there (from the direction of the Flipper Museum) and watching the historical looking trams fly by is also a delight.
Tickets for Hungarian and EU citizens are about €7 or 2,200 forints, while tickets for non EU citizens are about €19 or 5,800 forints.
A mere 300 meters south of the parliament building on Pest's east bank, you'll come across 60 iron shoes attached to a stone embankment along the Danube Promenade that comprise the Shoes on the Danube Bank Memorial.
Don't take this memorial lightly. Stand there for a while and let the tragedy of what happened there soak in. Imagine this is where they stood, feel the fear, anguish, and sorrow of their last moments, and then be angry at the coldness and casualness in which their murders were undertaken. As the far right continues to grow in power, we need these reminders more than ever so that humanity never again repeats these mistakes of our past.
The Széchenyi Chain Bridge in Budapest is surely one of the most beautiful bridges out there and is where I ended my late night walk along the Danube. This bridge is so special to me that I make it a point to walk across the bridge each and every time I visit Budapest. I've taken great pleasure of shooting photographs of the Chain Bridge at dusk and then again at night.
Recommended reading: It seems I have a thing for bridges. Read about the time I spent in the Montenegrin capital of Podgorica and geeked out at the sight of the Millenium Bridge or the time I went to Bosnia just because I saw a photo of Mostar's Old Bridge on Pinterest.
The suspension bridge is 375 meters long, stretches over the Danube, and connects the two sides of the city – Buda in the west to Pest in the east. When construction was completed in 1849, the bridge was the city's very first permanent bridge and was even hailed as one of the wonders of the modern world. Guarded on either side by two fierce looking lions, the bridge is a must see during your weekend in Budapest.
As I hungry again, I started walking back into the Pest for a late night dinner. Along the way, I passed the Budapest Eye.
You'll find the Budapest Eye, Europe's largest ferris wheel, at Erzsébet Square in District V. Standing at an impressive 65 meters in height, board one of the 42 cabins (which are air conditioned in summer) and take in a stunning panoramic view of Budapest. Whether you go by day or by night, you can expect equally good views either way. However, the ferris wheel itself is best seen at night when it's lit up with more than 10,000 coloured lights. How romantic and dreamy is that?
Ticket costs are 9€ (2,700 forints) for adults, 5€ (1,500 forints) for kids between 2 – 14 years old, and €8 (2,400 forints) for senior 65 and up. A family ticket for 2 adults and 2 kids under 14 years old is 23€ (6,900 forints). .
I walked through Budapest's party district and randomly looked for a place to eat. I wasn't sure what sort of cuisine I felt like, but I knew I wanted to go somewhere good and that no matter what, my meal must involve one last bit of Hungarian wine. I found heaven when I spotted Gettó Gulyás!
Gettó Gulyás has a funky but laidback vibe with it's walls of corrugated metal sheets and vintage wooden furniture. While they serve up various traditional Hungarian dishes like goulash and chicken paprika, the heart of their menu is found in their 14 different types of stew, known as pörkölt. The stews are made with boneless meat (chicken, beef, pork, and even game), paprika, and vegetables. The chef is said to use old family recipes and is strict about sourcing ingredients locally.
Please forgive my lack of detail here, but as the meal was so delicious that it did truly make me feel happy to be alive, I forgot to take note of the exact dish I ordered or how much the meal cost. Just trust me that it's really good and nothing on the menu is really that expensive. To see how much others rave about the place, read this review of Gettó Gulyás from We Love Budapest.
The restaurant's open from 12:00 pm – 11:00 pm on Sundays through Thursdays and from 12:00 pm – 12:00 am on Saturdays and Sundays.
Pro tip – As the restaurant gets crowded with tourists each night, get there early to avoid having to wait in line or be denied entry. If you come alone like I did, grab a seat at the bar and make friendly conversation with the staff and/or other patrons.
Szimpla Kert may very well be one of the most touristy spots in Budapest, but it's still my favourite bar in the world.
Set in a large former factory space, the building sat abandoned until it was transformed into the city's first ruin pub in the mid-2000s. Taking the shabby chic concept to the extreme, the maze like location's full of delight from its grafitti covered walls, to its shisha smoking patrons, the cheap drinks, and other whimsical touches like an empty bathtub and an old Trabant you can sit in. The bar plays host to cultural events like live concerts and open air moving screenings.
Book now: If you're brave and willing to damage your liver with palinka and other Hungarian alcoholic treats (Unicum!), go on this 5 hour pub crawl to various ruin bars in Budapest.
Over time, Szimpla became such a famous cultural institution that they expanded to having a Sunday market offering the most hipster of brunches, a design concept shop, and even their own craft beer brand. Did you know that there's a little Budapest in Berlin at Szimpla Kaffeehaus? It's a great spot for craft beer, brunch, and tasty Hungarian fare.
I'd tried to visit Szimpla for a quick beer the night before but found it to be too overcrowded for my taste. So I decided to return for the Sunday market the next day and conclude my weekend in Budapest there. It has an entirely differently vibe on Sundays. While again crowded in some parts, it was much easier and somehow more fun to navigate. I bought some souvenirs at the design shop (I collect magnets from every place I travel), walked past the vendors selling fresh bread, vegetables, cheeses, meat etc., and then toured the inside for about 30 minutes or so. Having already eaten breakfast at my hotel, I was a bit dismayed to not have known about brunch being an option beforehand.
The market's open every Sunday from 9:00 am – 2:00 pm.
1) If you're looking to get away from Berlin for the weekend, Budapest's an easy and affordable option. You can travel there via multiple airlines, with Ryanair and easyJet offering up the best low cost fares. The flight's just over an hour, so you'll be in Budapest in no time.
Check xe.com to check how the forint fares against your local currency. Your money will go a long way in Budapest, as prices for most things tend to be lower than in many other European cities.
I recommend not using the money exchange services offered at the airport, as they're way overpriced and you can get a more fair exchange rate in the city. You'll find shops all over Budapest – just check with your accommodation provider for more tips on the best location closest to where you're staying.
If you need some cash to get into the city, use an ATM at the airport, and withdraw a small amount.
You can use bank or credit cards in most places.
Bus – buses run frequently and there are two options. Take bus 200E and then switch to the metro. Note, you'll need a ticket for each leg of the journey. The journey will take about an hour. You can also take the more direct bus 100E running every 30 minutes, which travels in the direction of the Deák Ferenc tér central rail station. Expect the trip to take about 30 minutes. Tickets for the 200E bus are about 1.15€ (350 forints) and tickets for the 100E bus are about 3€ (900 forints).
Airport Shuttle – walk up to the counter in the airport's arrival area and book a shuttle to wherever you're staying. You can book a return ride which should not run you more than €27. This is my preferred way to travel into the city, as it's not that expensive and it takes you door-to-door.
Taxi – you can grab a taxi easily from the airport's taxi stand area. A one way fare to the city will run you about €26 and should take no more than 35 minutes.
Private Transfer – book a fancy chauffeured ride into the city. Use a service like Blacklane, with fares starting around €55 one way.
For more details about your various options, check out Wikitravel.
4) Budapest's best in spring, summer, or autumn, but don't let that stop you from making a visit during winter. There are far less tourists and as a result, prices are lower and you get more value for your money. During the winter months, you can do cool things like ice skate beside a castle, visit a Christmas market, or warm up in one of the thermal baths.
5) If staying in a hotel is not your thing, book an Airbnb apartment. First time Airbnb users, use this link to score a €30 travel credit.
6) Looking for more Budapest travel inspiration? Then consult my Budapest archives, read this guide from Happy Celiac about Gluten Free Budapest, this one about what to eat in Budapest, or this one with free and cheap things to do in Budapest.
Download this Google Map to spend a weekend cherylhoward.com style, featuring all of the places mentioned above.
Need somewhere to stay when you're visiting Budapest? Check out hotel offerings on booking.com.
Christmas Markets: Wiener Christkindlmarkt at Rathausplatz.
Budapest seems like such a nice and beautiful city to visit. I've been wanting to visit for so long now and still haven't… That McDonalds is crazy – even tho I dislike them, I'd def pay a visit haha. Also the thermal baths seem amazing – though very crowded. Maybe it's not that crowded in the early morning?
It's such a GREAT city. My favourite! The thermal baths are best experienced at 6 a.m. – this is when a lot of locals go to avoid the tourists and get in a good swim.
Wow! Such a awesome post and article you shared! Budapest seems amazing place to visit and beautiful pictures you captured in your travel trip. There are so many things to do. Thank you so much for sharing a great experiences! keep doing a great work!!
By the way, thanks for writing about our city with such loving words, it means a lot. Budapest is indeed a beautiful and interesting city, even if many tourist care only for getting way too drunk with the cheap drinks in district VII.
Wow! The baths look amazing in winter with all the steam! We bet they were so relaxing too, especially the hot ones.
We visited Budapest in the summer and loved it. It was HOT though! We can't recommend Budapest enough to people looking to travel. While it was good in the summer, their food would delicious and warming in winter! Thanks for sharing! We love the pics!
I am heading back to Budapest in January and the first place I'm going to go is to the baths! It's soooo nice.
Looking at going this year wondering if the Hungarian Fornt is widely accepted or is it all euros????
You can see more info in my "Good To Know" section. They only use the Forint and the Euro is not accepted anywhere.


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115 (2017-2018) — 116 (2019-2020) 110 (2007-2008) — 113 (2013-2014) 107 (2001-2002) 104 (1995-1996) Party : Republican House Committee : Oversight and Reform Subject — Policy Area : Government Operations and Politics
1. H.R.8324 — 116th Congress (2019-2020) Make PPE in America Act Sponsor: Rep. Budd, Ted [R-NC-13] (Introduced 09/21/2020) Cosponsors: (1) Committees: House - Energy and Commerce; Armed Services; Veterans' Affairs; Homeland Security; Education and Labor; Oversight and Reform Latest Action: 10/01/2020 Sponsor introductory remarks on measure. (CR H5057) (All Actions) Tracker:
2. H.R.3357 — 116th Congress (2019-2020) Merit Systems Protection Board Reauthorization Act of 2019 Sponsor: Rep. Hice, Jody B. [R-GA-10] (Introduced 06/19/2019) Cosponsors: (2) Committees: House - Oversight and Reform; Veterans' Affairs Latest Action: House - 07/16/2019 Referred to the Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations. (All Actions) Tracker:
3. H.R.6391 — 115th Congress (2017-2018) Merit Systems Protection Board Reauthorization Act of 2018 Sponsor: Rep. Hice, Jody B. [R-GA-10] (Introduced 07/16/2018) Cosponsors: (3) Committees: House - Oversight and Government Reform; Veterans' Affairs Latest Action: House - 07/17/2018 Ordered to be Reported by the Yeas and Nays: 20 - 12. (All Actions) Tracker:
4. H.R.3042 — 115th Congress (2017-2018) Dr. Chris Kirkpatrick Whistleblower Protection Act of 2017 Sponsor: Rep. Duffy, Sean P. [R-WI-7] (Introduced 06/23/2017) Cosponsors: (11) Committees: House - Oversight and Government Reform; Veterans' Affairs Latest Action: House - 06/23/2017 Referred to the Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity. (All Actions) Tracker:
5. S.585 — 115th Congress (2017-2018) Dr. Chris Kirkpatrick Whistleblower Protection Act of 2017 Sponsor: Sen. Johnson, Ron [R-WI] (Introduced 03/08/2017) Cosponsors: (1) Committees: Senate - Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs | House - Oversight and Government Reform; Veterans' Affairs Committee Report: S. Rept. 115-44 Latest Action: 10/26/2017 Became Public Law No: 115-73. (TXT | PDF) (All Actions) Tracker:
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Array ( [actionDate] => 2017-05-25 [displayText] => Passed/agreed to in Senate: Passed Senate with amendments by Unanimous Consent.(consideration: CR S3190; text as passed Senate: CR S3192-3194) [externalActionCode] => 17000 [description] => Passed Senate [chamberOfAction] => Senate )
Array ( [actionDate] => 2017-10-12 [displayText] => Passed/agreed to in House: On passage Passed by recorded vote: 420 - 0 (Roll no. 568).(text: CR H7989) [externalActionCode] => 8000 [description] => Passed House [chamberOfAction] => House )
6. H.R.3396 — 113th Congress (2013-2014) Veterans Health Care Stamp Act Sponsor: Rep. Burgess, Michael C. [R-TX-26] (Introduced 10/30/2013) Cosponsors: (11) Committees: House - Oversight and Government Reform; Veterans' Affairs Latest Action: House - 11/12/2013 Referred to the Subcommittee on Health. (All Actions) Tracker:
7. H.R.3290 — 112th Congress (2011-2012) Veterans Health Care Stamp Act Sponsor: Rep. Burgess, Michael C. [R-TX-26] (Introduced 11/01/2011) Cosponsors: (10) Committees: House - Oversight and Government Reform; Veterans' Affairs Latest Action: House - 11/01/2011 Referred to the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, and in addition to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the... (All Actions) Tracker:
8. H.R.5517 — 111th Congress (2009-2010) Every Veteran Counts Act Sponsor: Rep. Stearns, Cliff [R-FL-6] (Introduced 06/10/2010) Cosponsors: (0) Committees: House - Oversight and Government Reform; Veterans' Affairs Latest Action: House - 07/30/2010 Referred to the Subcommittee on Information Policy, Census, and National Archives. (All Actions) Tracker:
10. H.R.4116 — 110th Congress (2007-2008) To provide for the issuance of a veterans health care stamp. Sponsor: Rep. Burgess, Michael C. [R-TX-26] (Introduced 11/08/2007) Cosponsors: (35) Committees: House - Oversight and Government Reform; Veterans' Affairs Latest Action: House - 11/08/2007 Referred to House Veterans' Affairs (All Actions) Tracker:
11. H.R.2842 — 107th Congress (2001-2002) To provide that Federal civilian retirees shall not be allowed to receive veterans' disability compensation while receiving retirement benefits, except to the extent that retired members of the Armed forces are allowed to receive such compensation while receiving military retirement pay. Sponsor: Rep. Scarborough, Joe [R-FL-1] (Introduced 09/05/2001) Cosponsors: (0) Committees: House - Government Reform; Veterans' Affairs Latest Action: House - 10/31/2001 Referred to the Subcommittee on Benefits. (All Actions) Tracker:
12. H.R.3452 — 104th Congress (1995-1996) Presidential and Executive Office Accountability Act Sponsor: Rep. Mica, John L. [R-FL-7] (Introduced 05/14/1996) Cosponsors: (3) Committees: House - Government Reform and Oversight; Economic and Educational Opportunities; Judiciary; Veterans' Affairs Committee Report: H. Rept. 104-820 Latest Action: 10/26/1996 Became Public Law No: 104-331. (TXT | PDF) (All Actions) Tracker:
Array ( [actionDate] => 1996-09-24 [displayText] => Reported (Amended) by the Committee on Government Reform. H. Rept. 104-820, Part I. [externalActionCode] => 5000 [description] => Introduced [chamberOfAction] => House )
Array ( [actionDate] => 1996-09-24 [displayText] => Passed/agreed to in House: On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 410 - 5 (Roll no. 427). [externalActionCode] => 8000 [description] => Passed House [chamberOfAction] => House )
Senate [1]
Floor Consideration [2]
Passed One Chamber [2]
Resolving Differences [1]
Oversight and Reform Remove
Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs [1]
Referred to [12]
Discharged from [1]
Burgess, Michael C. [R-TX] [4]
Hice, Jody B. [R-GA] [2]
Budd, Ted [R-NC] [1]
Duffy, Sean P. [R-WI] [1]
Mica, John L. [R-FL] [1]
Johnson, Ron [R-WI] [1]
Jones, Walter B., Jr. [R-NC] [4]
Brady, Robert A. [D-PA] [3]
Grijalva, Raul M. [D-AZ] [3]
Hensarling, Jeb [R-TX] [3]
Marchant, Kenny [R-TX] [3]
Ernst, Joni [R-IA] [1]
Republican [12]

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


text:
Current (https://current.org/2019/04/directors-push-for-innovation-in-arkansas-creates-friction-with-foundation/)
Director's push for innovation in Arkansas creates friction with foundation
By Dru Sefton, Senior Editor | April 17, 2019
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AETN's building in Conway.
The Arkansas Educational Television Commission is threatening to sever its relationship with the AETN Foundation unless the fundraising group reinstates the network's executive director as foundation CEO.
The standoff follows months of friction between the sibling organizations over who will pay for AETN Executive Director Courtney Pledger's push to refresh the network's content strategy.
In January, Pledger used foundation funds without board approval to pay an outside contractor with production expertise. She later fired the foundation's longtime development director, Mona Dixon, who had urged Pledger to follow established financial procedures for securing the foundation board's approval. When Pledger disregarded that advice, Dixon discussed her concerns about the payment with the board.
At the time, Pledger was head of AETN in Conway and CEO of the foundation, but the foundation board has since removed Pledger as its chief executive.
An Arkansas native with extensive experience in television and film production, Pledger was hired by Gov. Asa Hutchinson in March 2017. She succeeded longtime station leader Allen Weatherly, who died in 2016.
Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson introducing his pick to head AETN, Courtney Pledger, in March 2017. (Photo: Michael Hibblen/KUAR)
During her first two years at AETN, Pledger has pushed for innovation. The state network launched TV and online coverage of state championship games for high school football and basketball. And in February, it premiered a statehouse streaming service, earning praise from Hutchinson. Pledger said the network is also developing streaming educational services.
But the workplace climate has changed for the worse, according to an anonymous March 8 letter signed by "Concerned employees" of AETN and addressed to the foundation board, the commission and the public.
"When Courtney Pledger came onboard, lots of staff were determined to be as positive as possible," the employees' letter said. It went on to describe how staff became "tense and wary" during her first year on the job, due in part to "a number of firings or forced retirements."
Several key managers have left since Pledger arrived, including COO Tony Brooks, who served as interim executive director during the leadership transition and departed in June 2017, and Mike McCullars, who directed projects at the foundation for 28 years before exiting in August 2017. Both former employees declined to comment. The employees' letter noted that "AETN's beloved" HR Director Lela Hodges took early retirement March 31 after 22 years.
Pledger fired Dixon, who was foundation COO and development director, Feb. 12. Dixon was ushered out of the building that day, ending 33 years of employment at the network, following a months-long argument with Pledger over payments for a production consultant.
Dixon declined to comment for this story. But she detailed her disagreement with Pledger and appealed her termination in a Feb. 26 letter to AETN Foundation Chair Lynne Rich and the foundation board.
After receiving Dixon's appeal, the board removed Pledger as foundation CEO.
Arkansas Business broke the story of the internal conflict March 1 and posted Dixon's letter to Rich and copies of Dixon's termination papers.
The AETN commission, a group of citizen representatives appointed by the governor, has backed Pledger in the dispute. Eight commissioners unanimously adopted a resolution voicing support for Pledger during an emergency meeting March 27.
In the resolution, the commission also threatened to terminate its contract with the fundraising foundation unless Pledger is reinstated as CEO and changes are made to its board bylaws. The commission called for instituting term limits for board members and adding two new foundation board members "to provide fresh perspective and ideas."
"Recent actions of the current foundation board are contrary to the vision and direction of AETN and in conflict with the purpose for which the foundation was created" in 1984, the commission resolution said. "The current working relationship between the commission and the foundation has reached an untenable point."
The commission set a deadline of April 10 for the foundation's response, then extended that deadline to April 12. "The foundation's initial response has been given to the commission, and conversations are continuing between the commission and foundation," AETN spokesperson Tiffany Head said Monday.
Head did not respond to several requests from Current to speak with Pledger and AETN Commission Chair Anne Herrington. Foundation Chair Rich did not respond to several requests for comment.
Rethinking content
Pledger's media career spans from Britain to Hollywood: She had worked as a creative consultant for the U.K.-based Aardman Animations (Wallace & Gromit, Chicken Run) and served as production SVP at Radical Studios in Los Angeles, where she developed partnerships with studios including DreamWorks, Disney and Warner Bros.
At a 2017 ceremony marking her appointment as executive director, Hutchinson noted Pledger's "vision for this agency" and her "incredible background in television," which included producing for NBC, ABC and CBS. Most recently, Pledger was executive director of the Hot Springs Documentary Film Festival. She had taken over the financially troubled festival in 2012; two years later, it was an Oscar-qualifying event for short films.
Rethinking AETN's content strategy has been a big focus for Pledger, and she wanted to bring in outside advisors to help guide the process. Pledger approached Dixon in August about initiating a contract with Team Raney, a content consulting business owned by Rachel Raney, director of national productions and original content at UNC-TV in Research Triangle Park, N.C., according to Dixon's letter to the foundation chair.
Pledger wanted to work with Raney on "content ideas" and told Dixon she "did not want to go through the state procurement process and wanted the foundation to pay for the contract," according to the letter.
Dixon told Pledger that all of the foundation's funds were earmarked for other projects and advised Pledger to ask the foundation board to use money from the capital planning fund. Pledger "said she did not want to go through the foundation board for approval," Dixon said in the letter. The foundation's most recent IRS Form 990 said its fundraising revenues support AETN program production and acquisitions, as well as publication of a monthly program guide.
Pledger proposed to pay Team Raney from an account that would violate the foundation's cash-flow policy and would not adhere to spending previously approved by the board in the FY19 budget, Dixon said in the letter.
At an October 2018 foundation board meeting, Pledger referenced the Team Raney contract in board materials. Rich later asked Dixon for more details on how Pledger wanted to handle the contract payment. "To protect myself, I felt the only safe way to discuss this freely [with Rich] was to invoke whistleblower protection," Dixon wrote, recalling her decision to privately approach Rich and seek protection in discussing Pledger's proposal.
After the October meeting, Pledger "stopped communicating with me," the letter said.
'A breach of trust'
During the board's December 2018 meeting, members voted unanimously to prohibit the foundation from paying for the Team Raney contract. Members explained that making payments through the foundation would be a violation of state procurement policies and the contract should be the financial responsibility of AETN. "The board instructed the staff that the contract should be canceled immediately" and be paid for by the station, Dixon wrote. "I thought the matter was settled."
But when Dixon returned from a conference in January, she noticed that Pledger had approved a foundation payment of $13,750 to Team Raney over the board's objections. Dixon notified the board of the payment.
At a special foundation board meeting Feb. 5 to discuss the contract, Dixon's letter said, board members decided "after much conversation" to make the payment, but from the capital planning fund as Dixon had originally suggested.
Dixon requested a mediation with Pledger through AETN human resources Feb. 11. HR Director Hodges "told me she thought this was a great idea," Dixon said in the letter.
Pledger fired Dixon the next day. When Dixon asked why, Pledger told her "we are going in a different direction," according to the letter. COO Ed Leon sat outside her office door as she packed her things, Dixon said. Her termination papers offered six months' salary in exchange for signing a nondisclosure agreement, which she declined to do.
Dixon said in her letter that she believes that Pledger fired her because she tried to explain foundation policies and ensure that they were followed, then informed the board about problems with how Pledger moved ahead with the Team Raney payment.
The employees' letter said that staff believe that Pledger "is attempting to use the restricted accounts of the foundation for unauthorized purposes." It also said staff viewed Dixon's termination as retaliation for challenging the executive director on the payment.
"It is important to remember that the foundation and the state are separate entities for a reason … to make a clear break between state monies and private donor funds," the employees' letter said. "Both sides have worked hard to achieve this goal. But since Courtney has come to us, she has caused a breach of trust between the two groups that have worked in successful harmony for decades."
The employees' letter notes that legislative auditors identified several problems with AETN for the first time in years, pointing to Pledger's "outright disregard for state regulations" for the unfavorable review of the network's accounting and procurement practices.
Those issues included problems with a vendor contract for State of the Art, an hourlong documentary premiering April 26 on PBS. It tells the stories of seven diverse and little-known artists from across the country who were part of an exhibition in Bentonville, Ark. Auditors said AETN "did not follow state procurement law" by handling vendor payments for the program through the foundation instead of the state Department of Finance and Administration.
"At no time did we wish to run afoul of state processes," the network said in response to the audit. "Given time constraints, our aim was efficiency in securing this opportunity for Arkansas. In the future we will carefully coordinate with the advice and approval" of the Department of Finance and Administration, the network said.
The audit also found that AETN did not issue competitive bids for four vendors' charges that totaled $157,928, engaged services of a special counsel without authorization from the governor and paid two vendors $10,000 for employee training but did not properly document that the training was completed. In addition, the audit faulted Pledger for using a state vehicle without keeping mileage logs.
In each instance, the station responded that it would take corrective measures to ensure future compliance.
Arkansas Educational Television Network
Arkansas network launches legislative streaming service
AR-CAN, the Arkansas Citizens Access Network, will stream legislative proceedings and other government activities.
3 thoughts on "Director's push for innovation in Arkansas creates friction with foundation"
Concerned Citizen for AETN on April 18, 2019 at 12:25 pm said:
No mention of the local Arkansas jobs she is trying to eliminate and trying to replace those jobs with people in another state from a remote base.
Honoring Allen Weatherly's legacy on June 24, 2019 at 10:43 am said:
Is there any follow up information relative to this story?
Dru Sefton on June 24, 2019 at 11:55 am said:
Hello: Thanks for the comment. The AETN Commission met Thursday and I've requested minutes of that meeting. The commission did not release an agenda so we're not sure what was discussed. We will be following up when news merits.


Pfizer and GSK inked an innovative deal to create a jointly owned company focused on HIV therapeutics. The marriage combines GSK's marketing muscle and a stable of established products with Pfizer's newer offerings. While it's unlikely the new venture will unseat rival Gilead as the top player in the HIV market, the deal could be a cash cow for both drug makers, especially if a spin-out ensues.
Subject: The GSK/Pfizer HIV Venture: Another Sign of Change?


On today's podcast, veteran scout and coach Chris Landry addresses North Carolina head coach Larry Fedora's comments about the direction of the game and explains the real reason why the rules changes are ongoing. He also previews and gives a scouting report on the SEC and how things might shake out this season.
On the NFL side, he breaks down the NFC South team by team and addresses some of the skill sets of the aging quarterbacks in the NFL. Also, he explains why there continues to be PED use in football despite the rules against it.


text:
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namespace perf\TypeValidation\Tree;

interface TypeNode
{
    /**
     * Tells whether provided value is valid according to current type node.
     *
     * @param mixed $value Value to validate.
     *
     * @return bool
     */
    public function isValid($value): bool;

    /**
     * Returns a textual representation of the current type node.
     *
     * @return string
     */
    public function __toString();
}

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


Dan "qmagnet" Lazenby is the master designer of two adventure maps that have gone down in Minecraft history. Diversity and Diversity 2 are great examples of tight design, ambitious vision and clever building, and as a result they're some of the most popular maps ever made. In fact, Diversity 2 is holder of a Guinness World Record for the most downloaded map on Curse!
Despite all their success, qmagnet retired as a map maker soon after he completed them. How did a newcomer to the scene make such a splash, and why didn't he want to keep his spot in the limelight? This is the story behind two of Minecraft's truly classic maps.
It starts in spring 2013. Back then, qmagnet was fairly new to Minecraft. A new dad and working by day as a plumber, he was enjoying making videos on YouTube and started to look at custom maps. "It didn't take too many to realise there was so much talent in the community," he tells me.
The Code is a puzzle map. You must work out each room's solution to advance to the next.
Being a plumber, qmagnet is no stranger to working with complicated technical things. "I work with my hands every day," he says. "Cuts, bruises, stiff muscles, all that fun stuff." But though he took some computer courses during high school, he had no experience with programming. But, undaunted and personally encouraged by Jesper, he decided to create his own puzzle map, which he called Complex.
Complex is exactly that: a bewildering maze of rooms that connect from every side.
It took him just a couple of weeks, and once released it soon attracted lots of encouraging feedback from the community, immediately pushing him into thinking about his next project.
"I never liked how the player just placed blocks in a row and said, 'I guess I won.' I wanted the map to decide the player won. "
The new map would have a similar objective to typical CTM maps, of going and collecting distant items for a reward. But he started to wonder, what if you didn't have to do the same challenge for each piece? What if it comprised different genres in one map?
The final map contains 10 different challenges, including parkour, a maze, a dropper level, survival and a boss battle. Wildly varied, they're also each great examples of their type.
Diversity's challenges are often familiar in form, like the fire dropper level, but keenly executed.
In December 2013, qmagnet started work on Diversity 2. And this time he was serious. "I needed to make something better and more mechanically inspiring above all else." And if that wasn't enough, he also wanted the sequel to be entertaining to watch and put more of a focus on cooperative multiplayer.
"I had to try and give players what they wanted. I needed to make something better and more mechanically inspiring above all else."
And yet qmagnet initially set out intending to keep things small and working alone. But in the face of his ambitions and knowing his weaknesses, he soon realised he'd need to take on the help of builders who could do what he couldn't.
It was a good decision. Five builders worked on Diversity 2, and adding their minds to the mix naturally led to more diversity in the map's levels. "I honestly could not have created that map alone," qmagnet says. Jesper the End joined, as well as Adrian Brightmoore, ColdFusionGaming, GoldenTurkey97 and QwertyuiopThePie, each chosen because qmagnet respected their previous work.
qmagnet did most building in creative mode, but used MCEdit to copy large sections.
Getting the right result was often trial-and-error, with hours spent trauling YouTube tutorials.
Diversity 2's Labyrinthian level has you exploring the twists and turns of a complex maze.
Diversity 2's Puzzle level is fiendishly hard - but beating it gives a real sense of achievement.
Still, Diversity 2 took eight months to complete, four times longer than the original, and 16 times longer than his first map. qmagnet spent six hours each weekday and 10 hours on both weekend days working on it.
"At first, the idea of creating a massive challenge map with impressive mechanics seems like a fun adventure and learning experience. But after a while, the adventure becomes like a chore," he says. He sacrificed a lot of his personal and family time to the project, but working with the team kept his motivation going.
When Diversity 2 was out, he could see that he'd achieved his goal. "I created something that I wanted the players to win against the map maker. They finish the map and they feel like they've accomplished quite a task," he says. But he also enjoys the sense that Diversity 2 feels part of the community. There are custom heads of 650 different Minecraft players placed in the map, and he was invited to talk about it at Minecon 2015.
So why was Diversity 2 his last Minecraft map? "Well, I always said I would only make another Diversity if I thought it would be better. I appreciated the good reception and cherish the experience but I had a difficult time finding the balance between Minecraft, day jobs, free time, family life... So I stepped away.
For more on how qmagnet made Diversity and its sequel, check out qmagnet's great development videos!


David Bazan forms Pedro The Lion while attending a Pentecostal liberal arts college in Kirkland, WA.
Whole EP released on Tooth n Nail Records. The band plays several shows a month for church youth groups around western Washington.
Pedro The Lion embarks on their first west coast tour (new band line-up). A US tour follows (new band line-up) with Pedro Lion playing first of four. The tour is mostly for church youth groups.
It's Hard To Find a Friend (Made In Mexico Records) released just in time for Pedro the Lion's first appearance at the Cornerstone Festival (new band line-up). All 500 copies of the album sell at the festival in one day. The album garners critical acclaim from both religious and mainstream press including Spin Magazine's year-end Top 10 Hidden Treasures list.
First headlining tour of the US (new band line-up).
The Only Reason I Feel Secure (Made In Mexico Records) released. US tour with future Jade Tree Records label mates Jets To Brazil. Touring continues throughout 1999 (new band line-up).
Bazan marries his high school sweetheart. Starts working on next album.
Winners Never Quit (Jade Tree Records) is released and quickly outsells previous Pedro The Lion albums. David has a hard time discerning if those attending the shows are leftovers from his early Christian fan base or new fans from the recent success. Extensive US touring continues (new band line-up, including TW Walsh).
Control (Jade Tree Records) is released and Bazan finds himself in the awkward position of having to justify the subject matter of his new songs to a handful of disenchanted and frustrated Christian fans in each city along the tour. Receives high fives from others. Control goes on to outsell previous albums. Much touring follows (new band line up).
TW Walsh moves to Seattle to join Pedro The Lion full-time. First tour of Europe. Bazan and Walsh begin work on next album.
Achilles Heel (Jade Tree Records) is released. David's drinking starts to become a problem and he begins losing the plot.
Bazan and Walsh create synthesizer and drum based band and release an album under the name Headphones (Suicide Squeeze Records). Bazan continues to mean well but doesn't actually do well by Walsh and others around him.
Plays solo show at SXSW. It does not go well. Bazan's manager thinks about other ways to make a living.
Watches "Otis Redding Live DVD" while drinking bottle of vodka. Rediscovers the plot. Explores atheism for a summer. First release under his own name, Fewer Moving Parts, is self- released. Bazan is named in Paste Magazine's 100 Best Living Songwriter's list.
Bazan stops getting drunk before shows. Plays sober for the first time since maybe 2003. Live performances improve.
Signs to Barsuk Records. Fewer Moving Parts EP is re-released.
Bazan realizes that his new songs are mostly autobiographical, detailing his struggles with faith (or lackthereof), drinking and how both things affect his family. Panics. After playing the songs at a few shows he realizes he loves them anyway.
Starts recording first full-length solo album. Deadlines come and go. Record label is very supportive and mildly concerned.
Alone At the Microphone DVD is released featuring Bazan playing some of his favorite Pedro the Lion, Headphones, and Bazan solo songs in his home studio.
TW Walsh begins work on mixing and mastering Curse Your Branches. Record label's concerns about deadline grow.
Work is complete on Curse Your Branches. Everyone breathes a sigh of relief.
In an effort to "lay low" Bazan plays 70 sold-out house shows across the country.
Begins rehearsals with new band; Eric Elbogen, Andy Fitts, Casey Foubert, Blake Wescott.
Bazan plays at the Cornerstone Festival for the first time in four years, without incident. Everyone has a great time.
Curse Your Branches is released.
Bazan embarks on his first tour with a band in four years.
Bazan's manager realizes this page hasn't been updated in 5 years and is currently working on it.


Your guests want to fully enjoy their stay. A safe feeling and tranquility in the hotel ensure that they will repeatedly visit your hotel again.
Besides, the security officer is always hospitable and obliging towards your guests. In doing so, he or she is an excellent calling card for your hotel.
Do you want more information about hotel security? Mail or phone our staff for information and customized advice.


text:
EDHEC International BBA
Your international journey
Our rankings
Lille campus
Nice campus
Life in France
EDHEC MAKES AN IMPACT ON THE WORLD OF HIGH-LEVEL SPORT
Written on 18 December 2018.
ALLISON PINEAU, A CHAMPION WITH A PASSION FOR FINANCE
Voted the world's best women's handball player in 2009 and now a student on the online track of EDHEC's International BBA programme, Allison Pineau has been playing handball since the age of 11. After four years abroad – including two in Romania and 18 months in Macedonia – she returned to France in 2016 to play for the Brest Bretagne Handball team. Now 29 and a member of the victorious France side, she is a reigning world champion (2017) and European champion (2018).
EURO 2018 IN FRANCE: AND THEN THERE WERE TWO!
Twelve months after their world title, les Bleues have just added a first European title to their honours list. Allison and her teammates in France's women's handball team became champions of Europe on 16 December 2018 by beating Russia 24-21 in the final in Paris, in a match watched by five million TV viewers. This European championship victory also means Allison's France team automatically qualify for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games.
ALLISON CHOSE EDHEC TO TRAIN FOR HER NEW CAREER
« I'd like to work in finance: gaining experience as a trader or becoming an investor would be a big achievement. I chose the EDHEC International BBA online as it really fits with my plans for my new career. There's a life after sport that I need to prepare », explains Allison. « My objective? Do the studies that I would love to have done, had I not had a career in sport.
« I've always been fascinated by the idea of working in finance. I'd like to do a job that I'm passionate about and one capable of generating the same kind of emotions I experienced in my sporting life » - Allison Pineau, EDHEC International BBA Online
ONLINE TRACK OF THE EDHEC INTERNATIONAL BBA
The High-Level Sports Track – now the EDHEC International BBA online track – enables students to study for a high-level management degree accredited by the French state as equivalent to four years of higher education. With the programme being delivered on a fully-online basis – apart from the obligation to sit exams on campus – there are no time or location constraints. Each student progresses at his or her own pace, with support from a tutor throughout the curriculum. « I love this way of studying, with the knowledge that I'm well-supported by my coach, bearing in mind that it's all too easy to fall behind when you study at distance. Knowing that someone looks at what you've done every week is important. Personally, I think about it a lot, as I really want to respect my commitments toward the people who've trusted me ».
The EDHEC International BBA online track is a 100% distance-learning programme tailored to the particular requirements and constraints of students in special situations, whether athletes, entrepreneurs, musicians or persons with reduced mobility. Bernard Curzi, Director of the EDHEC International BBA Online, sums up the programme's philosophy, content and organisation as follows: « it's not the learner's task to adapt, but the School's to adapt and come to the learner […] We're proud to share the values of sport and excellence, and delighted to offer sports champions the possibility of high-quality careers and therefore to make a positive impact on the world of high-level sport ».
More about the online track
About EDHEC
Operating from campuses in Lille, Nice, Paris, London and Singapore, EDHEC is one of the world's top 20 business schools. Fully international and directly connected to the business world, EDHEC is a school for business, rather than a business school, where excellence in teaching and research focuses on innovation to stimulate entrepreneurship and creativity. For business from birth and dedicated to business, EDHEC makes entrepreneurs for life, able to remodel or create successful businesses wherever they work.
EDHEC functions as a genuine laboratory of ideas and produces innovative solutions valued by businesses. The School's teaching philosophy, inspired by its award-winning research activities, focuses on "learning by doing".
© Copyright 2017 - All rights restricted


text:
Layer 1 Natural History Museum Basel
Preparation Studio
Committee NMB
Working at the Museum
Reasons for the new building
Info & Offers
People with additional needs
Mediacorner
New Building Natural History Museum Basel and State Archive Basel-Stadt
The Natural History Museum Basel and the State Archive Basel-Stadt are housed in old town properties in need of renovation and manage several provisional, external depots. This is where the collections and archives are stored. Both institutions suffer from inadequate conditions in their magazines and warehouses, which poses a significant threat to the valuable archives and collections. They urgently need new premises to protect the valuable cultural assets with their unique holdings in the long term.
Natural History Museum Basel
The exploration, education and mediation of the local and global diversity of nature is becoming increasingly important. That is why the museum defines its mission to empower the people to deal responsibly with planet Earth and its resources.
The Natural History Museum Basel is responsible for and supervises regional and international important scientific collections. These witnesses of our nature store information about elementary parts of our planet. The 11.8 million objects (including minerals, fossils, insects, skeletons) are irreplaceable for researchers from all over the world for their scientific work.
State Archive Basel-Stadt
The State Archive Basel-Stadt is the historical memory and the central knowledge store of the canton of Basel-Stadt. It is one of the most frequented and popular archives with a wide range of user groups.
As an interface between past, present and future, the archive secures irreplaceable Basel cultural heritage from around a thousand years of history and makes it available to the public: written and audiovisual original sources as well as digital documents that reflect the activities of the authorities and the life of the population in Basel.
Where is the new building to be built?
The construction site for the planned building is located on a former railway area on Entenweidstrasse in Basel's St. Johann district. The development of this part of Basel from a former industrial and workers' neighborhood into a popular, urban residential and cultural district continues unabated.
The perimeter covers 5,345 m2 of building space. In the south and west it borders on the track area of the railway. In the north it also includes the area below the Luzernerring bridge.
The attractiveness of the entire district around Voltastrasse and Vogesenplatz has grown steadily as part of the urban development process 'ProVolta'. The transformation of the area 'VoltaNord' (Lysbüchel area) north of the railway station St. Johann will also promote this development.
The new location is much better accessible by public transport than the museum at its present location on the Münsterhuegel. The tram stop 'Bahnhof St. Johann' is only a few steps away in front of the planned building. The city center and the SBB railway station can be reached in 10 minutes. In addition, the Voltaplatz and the Kannenfeldplatz are within walking distance and connect the new building to additional tram and bus lines.
The public use of the Natural History Museum and the State Archive will support the transformation of the district and increase the quality of life through the new center Vogesenplatz. It will also form a hinge between the neighboring quarters with their diverse range of population groups.
The building project
In June 2013, the parliament of the canton of Basel-Stadt confirmed the decision of the government to select an area in the north-west of Basel's city center for the joint construction of the Natural History Museum and the State Archive. The location is in the immediate vicinity of Vogesenplatz and St. Johann's railway station This decision was accompanied by the approval of the parliament, to spend a total of 11 million Swiss Francs for the project development on a new building for the two institutions under one roof.
For both institutions, this decision was preceded by potential studies for scenarios in the previous properties and extensive investigations on13 alternative locations throughout the city.
Anonymous project competition
In order to receive a high-quality project proposal, an anonymous project competition was held in 2014/15. 125 teams from all over the world applied to participate. In a prequalification, 22 teams were selected and invited to prepare a detailed project proposal.
Finally, the project ZASAMAME of the team EM2N architects from Zurich emerged victorious.
Details and plans of the building project
EM2N | Mathias Müller | Daniel Niggli Architekten AG
The building plan is for completion between 2020 and 2026. The moving in and setting-up phase will take one year in the case of the State Archive Basel-Stadt and two for the Natural History Museum Basel. After that, from 2027/2028, a new public building devoted to culture will be an exciting guidepost for the aspirational district of St Johann.
Figures Natural History Museum Basel 2018
11.8 Mio Objects in the collections
127'931 Visitors
1'587 School groups (2/3 from Basel-Stadt)
19'750 Lending of collection objects to other museums or scientists
Scientific visitor days of a total of 175 scientists from 20 different countries of the world
Costs joint new building Natural History Museum and States Archive
143 Mio Part of Natural History Museum Basel
71 Mio Part of States Archive Basel-Stadt
total cost one-time building expenses incl. relocation and installation costs and reserve
New Building Natural History Museum Basel and State Archive Basel-Stadt, East © EM2N, Visualisation: Filippo Bolognese
Why does the
new building secure the future
of the museum
© 2016 NMB Basel Legal Information


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Home/Health/mediacongo.net – News – The number of cases of measles reaches a record in Europe
mediacongo.net – News – The number of cases of measles reaches a record in Europe
belgium August 27, 2018 Health Leave a comment
In Europe, almost twice as many people contracted measles in the first six months of 2018 than in 2017. This is the conclusion of the World Health Organization (WHO), which in the first six months of 2018 lists at least 37 people who died this disease on the continent – one more than in 2017.
As we have explained, measles have the appearance of a mild illness due to symptoms (fever, fatigue, cough). Yet she can to be in some cases, mainly because of complications (brain damage, infection of the lungs) that sometimes follow the infection. The consequences of train the death of the patient, especially in unvaccinated persons.
In 2015, the WHO launched its European Action Plan for Vaccines 2015-2020, one of the main objectives being "To eliminate measles and red dog" towards the end of the decade. In the meantime, since the start of 2018, seven European countries have each registered at least one thousand cases of measles (adults and children). The phenomenon affects both countries in the east (Russia, Georgia, Ukraine and Serbia) and the west (Greece, Italy and France). Ukraine alone accounts for more than half (23,070) of cases of measles in the first six months of the year.
More than a third of countries in the European zone have a vaccination rate of less than 95%
At European level, average measles immunization coverage increased from 88% in 2016 to 90% in 2017. However, WHO underlines the persistence of major inequalities within a single country, some regions & # 39; s report coverage of more than 95% and others less than 70% "The UN agency recommends 95% vaccination coverage (for both doses of vaccine) Guarantee immunity of a population. According to data collected by WHO, only 19 out of 53 European countries have average vaccination coverage of more than 95% in 2017.
Reduce the vulnerable population
Despite an average vaccination coverage of 91% in 2017, Serbia has been hit by a measles epidemic since the beginning of the year (71 cases per 100,000 inhabitants). In the same period, Belgium has one case of measles per 100,000 inhabitants with a lower immunization coverage rate (85%). "As soon as the virus enters a low-coverage country or community, the infection spreads like a running fire in vulnerable populations (non-vaccinated or inadequately vaccinated), Dr. Siddhartha Datta, WHO Regional Technical Manager for Europe. In a country with a coverage ratio of more than 95%, a possible epidemic will soon die out because transmission of the virus will be delayed by the limited number of vulnerable people. "
Below this threshold, "Countries are exposed to epidemics, the differences between the number of registered cases in Serbia and Belgium depend essentially on the non-vaccination or under-vaccination of children against the virus"says Datta. According to a WHO report, 14,500 or 65% of infected children in Europe, in 2017, were 23,527 cases of measles, children and adolescents aged 0 to 19, confirming the high transmissibility of the disease. viruses in the youngest non-immunized populations. "Vaccination of children, adolescents and adults who have forgotten in previous years is essential for to protect future babies of all contamination ", calls for the doctor.
These case descriptions of measles in 2018 will undoubtedly contribute to discussions in the WHO European Commission in September next year, which will bring the 53 European countries together in Rome.
MediaCongo
By belgium
the ongoing revolution, first impressions and useful links
UK Coronavirus LIVE: NHS ready for 'V-Day' vaccination as blow 'overshadowed by Brexit fears'
Weather forecast: SNOW is not far …
"Today it must have been too good, but …"
"Move around ma'am", in the Nieuwstraat, this Saturday, the crowd remained under control – dh.be


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Q: Modified presentation of the Clifford algebra We define a modified Clifford algebra, we take the free algebra over the vector space $E$ with the relations:
$$ e\otimes f + f\otimes e + \alpha (e)f + \alpha (f)e = -2 g(e,f)$$
with $\alpha$ a linear forme over $E$. Could we define a modified Dirac operator $\cal D$ over a spin manifold $M$, such that: $${\cal D}^2 + \nabla_a {\cal D} = -\Delta + \frac {r}{4}$$, with $\nabla$, the Levi-Civita connection, $a= \alpha^*$ and $\Delta$, the Laplacian?

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


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Asmir Begovic: 'Bournemouth front three as good as Liverpool's'
Home » News » Football » Premier League » Asmir Begovic: 'Bournemouth front three as good as Liverpool's'
Goalkeeper Asmir Begovic has claimed that Bournemouth's front three of Ryan Fraser, Josh King and Callum Wilson deserve as much credit as Liverpool's Sadio Mane, Mohamed Salah and Roberto Firmino.
The Merseyside giants have scored 11 goals from their opening five games in the Premier League, with Mane, Salah and Firmino contributing eight strikes and three assists between them.
However, Bournemouth have also made a fast start to the campaign with 10 goals coming from the same amount of fixtures, and Begovic has heaped praise on his side's attacking players.
The Bosnia-Herzegovina international is quoted by the Daily Mail as saying: "Our front three are as good as anyone in the league. We are a very attacking team, we want to attack and score goals.
"They are up there with Liverpool's front three when they are on form. The way we play suits them. They have a great understanding and long may it continue."
Fraser, King and Wilson have seven goals and five assists between them this season.
Asmir Begovic, Callum Wilson, Football, Josh King, Mohamed Salah, Roberto Firmino, Ryan Fraser, Sadio Mane


We have an exciting year ahead of us filled with events, workshops, merchandise, networking, job and volunteer opportunities and more! Make sure to stay tuned for these newsletters to keep you up-to-date on any events or opportunities coming your way. Here at Marketing Society, we are committed to giving our members as many opportunities as we can – and we will (we promise)!
Introducing our new President, Carly Hanselmann and Vice President, Cameron Saik! Both are in their fourth year in the business program at Mount Royal University. We are thrilled to have them on our team and we know they have some amazing things planned for Marketing Society this year!
Remember to renew your membership with us! We need your contribution so we can continue to give you amazing offers! It's only$10 per year and we really appreciate your continued support!
We have a Networking Breakfast coming up on October 15, 2018! Save the date and make sure to check out our social media pages for more information to come!
That's all the updates for now! These newsletters will be sent out twice a month to keep you updated on any important information concerning events, workshops, merchandise, job, and volunteer opportunities, and more! Also, if you haven't already, make sure to follow us on social media!


The Discipline of Surgery is the largest academic surgical department in Australasia and operates across seven different clinical schools in New South Wales.
Our staff and students are conducting cutting-edge teaching and research to enhance surgical practice across a range of specialties. We have more than 100 members across our clinical schools who are well integrated into hospital activities.
We are involved in teaching, research, administration and delivery of clinical services, working through clinical school. Many of our people occupy leadership roles within the New South Wales Area Health Services structure.
Each clinical school has a mix of University-appointed academic surgeons, area health service appointments conjoint with the University and staff specialists and visiting medical officers awarded clinical academic titles by the University.
Our coursework, research and postdoctoral degrees can be tailored to any stage of your surgical career. We provide a quality research and learning environment where postgraduate students can benefit from interdisciplinary collaboration and extensive research facilities.
Learn more about studying surgery.
Our coursework programs are designed to complement the Surgical Education and Training (SET) program of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS). They are not qualifications to practice as a specialist surgeon.
The discipline's research expertise lies across a variety of surgical specialties including cardiovascular, cardiothoracic, colorectal, ear, nose and throat, gastrointestinal, laparascopic, neurosurgery, onocology, orthopaedics, otorhinolaryngology, paediatrics, plastic and reconstructive, transplant, urology, vascular and endocrine surgery.
For more information on individual areas of research, please contact Associate Professor Manish Patel, Surgery Research Coordinator.
The University of Sydney offers short courses in surgery. Visit our short courses section to learn more about available topics and upcoming dates.
It is possible to complete almost any unit of study as a non-award student.
Find out more about supporting your studies in surgery.


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View PDFGenerating
COLLECTION Identifier: A/P463h
Papers of Helen Guest Perry, 1950-2003
Collection Inventory
Cookbook, photographs, and biographical information of librarian Helen Guest Perry.
Materials in English.
Access Restrictions:
Access. Collection is open for research.
Copyright. Copyright in the papers of Helen Guest Perry is held by the President and Fellows of Harvard College for the Schlesinger Library. Copyright in other papers in the collection may be held by their authors, or the authors' heirs or assigns.
Copying. Papers may be copied in accordance with the library's usual procedures.
The collection includes a typed cookbook entitled "How to Fry an Egg," compiled by Helen Guest Perry's mother, Helen Harden Washburn, on the occasion of Perry's marriage; the cookbook includes recipes for soup, main courses, vegetables, sauces, and desserts. Also included are reminiscences about Perry, photographs (including of the interior of Perry's home, and of Perry posing with an unfinished painting of herself, of her wedding, and with Senator Ted Kennedy),a list of Perry's cookbooks, with favorite recipes noted, and an obituary and memorial reminiscences.
Helen Guest Perry was born in 1929, the daughter of Robert and Helen Harden Washburn. Known as "Guest" throughout her life, she graduated from Keuka College in 1950 and married Tom Perry the following year. They had three children: Sarah, Taft, and Perry. The founding librarian of the Houghton Mifflin Library, Perry was very active in numerous civic organizations in Charlestown, Massachusetts, including the Community Garden of Charlestown, the Charlestown Preservation Society, and Friends of City Square Park. She died in 2003.
Accession number: 2004-M96
The Papers of Helen Guest Perry were given to the Schlesinger Library by Christine Downing and the Children of Helen Guest Perry in 2004.
Processed: August 2004
By: Anne Engelhart
Updated and additional description added: November 2020
By: Susan Earle
The Schlesinger Library attempts to provide a basic level of preservation and access for all collections, and does more extensive processing of higher priority collections as time and resources permit. Finding aids may be updated periodically to account for new acquisitions to the collection and/or revisions in arrangement and description.
Link to catalog
Charlestown (Boston, Mass.)--Social life and customs--20th century
Cooking, American
Volunteers--Massachusetts
Arthur and Elizabeth Schlesinger Library on the History of Women in America
Processing of this collection was made possible by the possible by the Radcliffe Class of 1955 Manuscript Processing Fund.
EAD ID
sch01782
Part of the Schlesinger Library, Radcliffe Institute Repository
https://www.radcliffe.harvard.edu/schlesinger-library
The preeminent research library on the history of women in the United States, the Schlesinger Library documents women's lives from the past and present for the future. In addition to its traditional strengths in the history of feminisms, women's health, and women's activism, the Schlesinger collections document the intersectional workings of race and ethnicity, gender, sexuality, and class in American history.
3 James St.
Cambridge MA 02138 USA
ask@radcliffe.libanswers.com
From year To year
Helen Guest Perry Papers, 1950-2003; item description, dates. A/P463h. Schlesinger Library, Radcliffe Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, Mass.
Helen Guest Perry Papers, 1950-2003; item description, dates. A/P463h. Schlesinger Library, Radcliffe Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, Mass. https://id.lib.harvard.edu/ead/sch01782/catalog Accessed January 19, 2022.
Please note that the Schlesinger Library's manuscript collections cannot yet be requested directly from the finding aid. In the meantime, once you have compiled a list of material you would like to consult, please contact Schlesinger Library, Radcliffe Institute at https://asklib.schlesinger.radcliffe.edu/index.php.


Andrew Lloyd Webber's latest television talent contest is a search for the lead role in a nationwide tour of Jesus Christ Superstar. The show is to be broadcast on ITV this summer and Sennheiser 8000 series wired microphones have been used exclusively throughout the recording of the auditions.
Entitled Superstar, responsibility for the audio recording lies with Meredith Broadcast Audio, a company well known for its work on some of UK televisions' highest profile programmes, including Top Gear, Masterchef and The Apprentice.
Company owner and Superstar location sound supervisor Richard Meredith needed microphones that would deliver equally high quality audio in a range of situations.
Of course much of the interest in reality television shows is the off- and backstage footage, which gives the audience the impression that they are really there, witnessing the unguarded reactions and off-the-cuff remarks of the participants.
"With this type of programme, a large proportion of the reality and backstage audio is filmed by PDs with no sound recordist," Richard continues. "We wanted to give them the best shot at collecting decent content and the combination of size and pickup characteristic of the MKH 8060 was perfect for both the camera top mic and wireless booms issued to each PD crew.
Once Superstar airs all the 8000 series will be available from Meredith Broadcast Audio's rental stock at www.meredith.tv/hire .


The place you'd rather be.
For more than 30 years, Camp Buckner has provided life-changing camp experiences for children, adults, families and organizations. Nestled in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, Camp Buckner offers a variety of housing options to meet the needs of any group, whether young or old, large or small. Camp Buckner offers flexible and individualized lodging in our climate-controlled cabins, hotels and all of the buildings combine the rustic charm of the Texas Hill Country with modern conveniences such as air conditioning, high-speed internet access and telecommunications and audio/visual equipment.
As an added bonus, your experience at Camp Buckner benefits foster children and families and single-parent families served by Buckner. By staying at Camp Buckner, you're allowing others to learn about the hope of Christ.
It's truly the place you'd rather be.
At Camp Buckner we are all about serving our guests as Christ serves his church and we are a part of Buckner International which main focus on taking care of the widows and orphans. Learn more about our ministry here.
Camp Buckner offers retreats throughout the year for a variety of groups like churches groups, businesses, schools and others who are looking for a relaxing setting to learn, rest and play. We offer many different accommodations and activities that will meet your needs. To learn more about what we offer, click here.
College-aged students can earn college credit while learning all the aspects of Camp Buckner's summer ministry to youth groups and at-risk children. Summer staff will receive a stipend, room and board and participate in a structured discipleship program designed to help them grow in their relationship with Christ. They will also undergo training to become certified lifeguards and ropes course and archery facilitators. Find out more here.
Children living in Buckner foster care may never know what it's like to go on a hike, sit around a campfire or climb the ropes course if they aren't given the opportunity to attend summer camp. Each year, Buckner sends dozens of foster children to experience God's love in the Texas Hill Country. But they can only go with your help. Consider supporting a child's camp experience through the Christopher Tom Stacy Campership Fund. Your support could make a world of difference in a child's life. Click here to allow a vulnerable child to experience camp.
Discover the place you'd rather be and experience the life-changing ministry of Camp Buckner. Contact us today at 512-756-7540.


Ubicado en Terminal 3 (seguridad interior). Schengen Area, after Passport Control, turn right and follow signs to D-Gates, take the escalator between C and D-Gates to the 2nd Floor, entrance is located near Gate D3.
Vale la pena desviarseNewly renovated and very nice, but very hot on this mid-April afternoon. What do they do in the summer?
Vale la pena desviarsePeople were kind and the food was fine. Still, I wouldn't arrive early to hang out here.
SatisfactorioAverage lounge. The food is not bad but could be improved. Drinks are OK.
Necesita mejorarOne of the worst lounge I have visited. Very small, full of people, no place to seat, impossible to charge a phone. Very few things to eat for breakfast...and poor quality. 1 star for it.


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Amazon Is Asking Indians To Hand Over Their Aadhaar, India's Controversial Biometric ID, To Track Lost Packages
The move has baffled Amazon's Indian customers, who are already grappling with being forced to link their Aadhaar numbers to open bank accounts, get life insurance, and much more.
by Pranav Dixit
Drew Angerer / Getty Images
Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos is the world's richest man, with a net worth of over $100 billion.
Amazon is asking customers in India — a large and crucial market — to upload copies of their Aadhaar, India's controversial biometric ID, to its website to track down lost packages. BuzzFeed News reviewed chats between half a dozen Amazon customers in India and the company's customer service agents in November and discovered that Amazon's agents said not uploading a copy of Aadhaar "might result in a delay in the resolution or no resolution" of the case.
The move has baffled Amazon's Indian customers. For months, Indians have been grappling with their government forcing them to link Aadhaar with their bank accounts and health insurance among other things. Private companies like cellphone carriers and FedEx have also demanded customers' Aadhaar details to provide services. Many are concerned because critics say linking Aadhaar to both significant and mundane parts your life enables the state and private players to track your every move.
"[Being asked for my Aadhaar] was like being blackmailed to link [it] with my Amazon account if I wanted to get the products I had already paid for," Shraddha Kosaria, an Amazon customer in the Indian city of Kolkata, told BuzzFeed News. "It was absurd and frustrating."
"There are people who may not have any other form of ID besides Aadhaar," an Amazon spokesperson told BuzzFeed News. "And we really need to establish the identity of an individual when they claim missing packages."
India's Aadhaar program is a centralized, government-sanctioned database that links demographic information such as names, dates of birth, addresses, and mobile numbers along biometric data like fingerprints and iris scans to a unique ID number. Nearly 90% of India's 1.3 billion people now have an Aadhaar, making it the first national ID database of this scale anywhere in the world. It's now mandatory to have an Aadhaar to open bank accounts, file taxes, and buy a SIM card, among dozens of other things in India. But critics have slammed the program, which stores personal details of every Indian on centralized government servers, for posing a serious threat to privacy, and for enabling mass surveillance. Cryptographer and cybersecurity expert Bruce Schneier told BuzzFeed News earlier this year: "When this database is hacked — and it will be — it will be because someone breaches the computer security that protects the computers actually using the data. They will go around the encryption."
That hasn't stopped Silicon Valley tech firms, for whom India is the largest and most important market outside the United States, from using it in their products. As BuzzFeed News exclusively reported, Airbnb and Uber, and its Softbank-backed Indian rival Ola, are exploring ways to integrate Aadhaar into their products in India. And earlier this year, Microsoft baked Aadhaar authentication right into Skype Lite, a version of the video and voice messaging app targeted at people in developing markets like India.
Gitanjali, an Amazon customer in Mumbai who did not want her last name to be published, for privacy reasons, told BuzzFeed News she contacted the retailer after it showed that a dog blanket she ordered earlier this month had been delivered, even though she didn't actually receive it. "I got cheesed off after [Amazon customer care] asked me for a copy of my Aadhaar just to raise an investigation," she said. "I have no idea what the purpose of asking me for my Aadhaar is!"
"I have no idea what the purpose of asking me for my Aadhaar is!"
Amazon told BuzzFeed News that the company asks for Aadhaar to authenticate the identity of customers who claim their packages are lost or missing. "Aadhaar is our preferred ID because it is the most widely held form of ID [in India] right now," an Amazon India spokesperson said. If a customer doesn't have Aadhaar, they said, the company would typically ask for any government-certified identification and carry out the investigation "in the best possible way, although that may, at times, have certain limitations."
But multiple Amazon customers told BuzzFeed News they had to argue long and hard to get Amazon to take up their complaints without submitting their Aadhaar numbers first. Amazon's interface for uploading photo ID proofs on its Indian website lists Aadhaar and PAN — an ID that is required for filing taxes in India — as the only acceptable identification.
BuzzFeed News screenshot
"I was told that that my complaint cannot be registered unless I provided my Aadhaar," Priyesh Shah, an Amazon customer from New Delhi, told BuzzFeed News. "It took an almost 45-minute conversation and multiple escalations to have the complaint registered without my Aadhaar details."
Amazon's use of Aadhaar does seems logical in a country where people are quickly discovering ways to defraud online sellers in a still-nascent e-commerce sector. Last month, for instance, a man in New Delhi duped Amazon by ordering expensive mobile phones 166 times and then asking for a refund after claiming that all he had received were empty boxes. According to reports, he made 52 million rupees (approximately $80,000) in two months by cheating Amazon.
"For someone like Amazon, a long purchase history will indicate a genuine customer when something like this happens," said Kiran Jonnalagadda, cofounder of the Internet Freedom Foundation, a volunteer-driven online privacy organization in Bangalore, and a vocal Aadhaar critic. "But most of their customers in India are relatively new — so it's harder to catch fraud." Asking for Aadhaar, therefore, makes sense, said Jonnalagadda, who still cautioned that tying yet another private service into Aadhaar is fraught.
Critics have called out private companies plugging into India's Aadhaar database in the past. "I think it's problematic that such an extensive ecosystem is being built around Aadhaar, whether by Indian startups or Western companies, while a comprehensive privacy law remains nonexistent in India," Anja Kovacs, director of the Internet Democracy Project, an organization that works on issues of free speech, democracy, and social justice on the internet in India, told BuzzFeed News earlier this year. It's a statement that Jonnalagadda echoed. "All these actors collectively help build the case for the larger surveillance machinery in India," he said.
"Look, Amazon is nothing more than a shop to me," said Gitanjali, the Amazon customer who bought a dog blanket. "It's just an online storefront I buy things from. And now this storefront wants to collect my most private piece of information from me just to raise an investigation! For something I've already paid for! It's crazy."
Pranav Dixit
Pranav Dixit is a tech reporter for BuzzFeed News and is based in the San Francisco Bay Area.
Contact Pranav Dixit at pranav.dixit@buzzfeed.com.


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VGIA | Virginia Gang Investigators Association
VA Gang Articles
WELCOME TO VGIA
It gives me great pleasure to welcome you to the Virginia Gang Investigators Association or VGIA. The VGIA was established in 1997 by a group of law enforcement professionals who recognized the importance of having a gang based information sharing network narrowly but intensely focused on responding to the proliferation of street gangs in Virginia. Like other states along the East Coast, a phenomenon also exists in Virginia where well-established criminal street gangs hailing from the West Coast, Mid West, and South West have recently and increasingly joined the population of our existing gangs, bringing the potential of further criminal networking to a new and more threatening level. VGIA will remain committed to bridging the lines of communication between all aspects of law enforcement and providing the most current and reliable information to our membership. In recognizing that any association is only as strong as its membership, VGIA pledges to put its membership first as well, with each and every member held at the highest regard. It is a strong belief of this association that we collectively have an equal voice as we unite in this endeavor to combat against the advancement of street gangs in our communities and the state of Virginia.
Randy Crank
President, VGIA
In response to the ever increasing gang problem plaguing our nation and state, concerned criminal justice professionals from Virginia began what is today the Virginia Gang Investigators Association.
Chartered February 1997, The V.G.I.A. is a non -profit organization made up of law enforcement officers and other members of the criminal justice community. The V.G.I.A. promotes a closely coordinated relationship among gang investigators through extensive and rapid dissemination and exchange of information about gang-related, cult and extremist group activity. The V.G.I.A. supports new techniques from identification and apprehension of gang members and encourages legislation related to the reduction of gang related crimes. Additionally; the V.G.I.A solicits public support of its goals so the citizens might be educated about the prevention regarding organized criminal activities, tactics, philosophies, etc., to its members and any other law enforcement agency upon request.
The VGIA offers training conferences, seminars and certifications from the basic understanding of street gangs for the new gang officer to advanced street gang intelligence and identification. Our training is only for Law Enforcement Officials, Probation Officers, Parole Officers, Corrections Officers, and Criminal Justice Professionals.
Upcoming VGIA Training Events >>
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22nd Annual Gang Conference
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5461 Indian River Road Virginia Beach, Virginia 23474
The VGIA Members Only section is open to sworn law enforcement officials including police, probation/parole, corrections and prosecutors.
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