text:
Statement written by ZSP Sept. 11
The authorities in Belgrade have been holding our five of our comrades for a week now. A sixth person is reportedly arrested as well, although the police, with their typical games, will not confirm this publically. We demand their immediate release.
The repressive nature of the state is evident. All who oppose its power, violence and repression or its legal support of forms of mass exploitation are potential candidates for arrest. It does not matter if you actually break one of the state's laws designed to protect its own power or not; the state can always find somebody to accuse when they need to show off their power to crush their opponents.
In recent years, when many of the states have embarked on a self-righteous and hypocritical "war against terror", across the globe the concept of "terrorism" is being broadened by governments in attempt to terrify citizens and misled them. In the Belgrade case, the prosecutor has also branded the arrested as "international terrorists", a false accusation stuck on people which may follow them their whole lives. This is a hard accusation for social activists, some of who have publically denied any knowledge of the acts they are accused of. As members of Anaracho-Syndicalist Initiative have rightfully pointed out, the action in question, where allegedly somebody threw Molotov cocktails at the Greek Embassy in Belgrade, is merely a symbolic attack against the property of the state in retaliation for its real acts of violence.
Terrorism is, on the other hand, more characteristic of the murderous acts of the state.
Our demonstration takes place on Sept. 11, a date almost synomous with the word "terrorism". A terrorist act took place that day": hundreds of random people were killed. However such acts take place on a more regular basis, for war is terrorism. Murderous social and economic policies are also terrorism, albeit in a sanitized form. Millions of people die from war, poverty and social displacement and the governments of the world are looking for terrorist threats elsewhere. In this way, people's attention is diverted.
Last Sept. 11, we also had to protest, that time at the American Embassy since the authorities there tried to infamously charge protestors against the Republican National Convention in a similar way to our Serbian comrades. We see a clear pattern in this repression.
In the meanwhile, the Serbian state acts as if the main source of terror in their country is a group of workers' activists. The state has a long list of terrorist acts to account for itself. Besides the real crimes against humanity directly sponsored by the state in the recent past (a long list of war crimes and the brutal repression of demonstrators in the country), we can add the state's role in creating unbearable working conditions for hundreds of thousands of people, including thousands who became victims to corrupt privatizations who have not been paid for their work in a long time. In light of the real misery that state has inflicted on hundreds of thousands, we should rather remind people of who has been the real terrorists.
In the meanwhile, the state always looks for easy targets to villanize and for people inconvient to them which they can take off the streets.
We say:
Enough Political Repression and Enough State Terrorism
Free the Belgrade 6 Now
ZSP supports LOT staff... but not selling out workers
About IMF/WB and Workshop for Activists
Blockade of Eviction
New Issue of Wolna Praga Newspaper
JW Construction Campaign
Protest at the City Council
Protest Sept. 11
Free our Comrades!
Solidarity with our Comrades from ASI
New ZSP Sites


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text:
Vungakoto "Vunga" Lilo (nacido en Koulo el 28 de febrero de 1983) es un jugador de rugby tongano, que juega de zaguero para la selección de rugby de Tonga y para Montauban en el Top 14 francés.

Debutó con la selección de Tonga en un partido contra Corea del Sur en Henderson el 10 de febrero de 2007. Compitió tanto en la Copa Mundial de Rugby de 2007 como en la de 2011.

Seleccionado para la Copa del Mundo de Rugby de 2015, Lilo logró puntos en la victoria de su equipo sobre Namibia 35-21, mediante dos conversiones y un golpe de castigo.

Enlaces externos
  Ficha en ESPN.co.uk
  Perfil en los archivos de los Cornish Pirates

Jugadores de rugby de Tonga

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


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High-performance grid cluster (HPCG) is in operation since 2010. The disk memory of the cluster was expanded in 2014. The cluster was again expanded with additional opportunities to accelerate calculations using graphics cards and co-processors in 2014 and 2015.


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text:
1.31. Acts of 1937 and 1961.-
This, in brief, is the scheme of the Act of 1940. In respect of arbitration agreements entered into outside India and foreign awards, there is a special law, the Arbitration (Protocol and Convention) Act, 1937.1 It mainly relates to matters considered as commercial under the law in force in India.2 The operation of the Act is based on reciprocal arrangements.3 The Act mainly concerns itself with the procedure for filing foreign awards and their enforcement, and the conditions of such enforcement.4
Detailed matters in respect of proceedings under the Act are left to be governed by the rules of the High Court.5
In 1961, a special Act for the enforcement of certain foreign awards was passed .6
1. The Act is still extant; see Franceso v. Gorakharana, AIR 1960 Boni 91.
2. Section 2 of the 1937 Act.
3. Section 2(b) of the 1937 Act.
4. Sections 2 to 8 of the 1937 Act.
5. Section 10 of the 1937 Act.
6. The Foreign Awards (Recognition and Enforcement) Act (45 of 1961).

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


text:
\section{Introduction}\label{sec:intro}

\begin{figure}
\resizebox{\hsize}{!}{\includegraphics{Bf802_f1.eps}}
\caption{The finding chart for HS\,1603+3820.}
\label{fig:findingchart}
\end{figure}

\begin{figure}
\resizebox{\hsize}{!}{\includegraphics{Bf802_f2.eps}}
\caption{The ``Ly-$\alpha$'' spectrum of HS\,1603+3820. The dotted
line shows 1$\sigma$ uncertainty, the dashed line shows the continuum
it. Tick marks under the spectrum show the absorption lines. The
spectrum was smoothed with a 3-pixel box.}
\label{fig:lyaspectrum}
\end{figure}

\begin{figure}
\resizebox{\hsize}{!}{\includegraphics{Bf802_f3.eps}}
\caption{The ``C{\sc iv}'' spectrum of HS\,1603+3820. See caption of
Fig.~\ref{fig:lyaspectrum} for details.}
\label{fig:civspectrum}
\end{figure}

Quasars often exhibit narrow heavy element absorption lines near their
emission redshift. One possible explanation for the origin of these
systems is that they arise in clouds of matter associated with
galaxies in the clusters surrounding the quasars. Alternate
possibility is that they originate in the clouds that are physically
associated with the quasars themselves. It has been shown that both
these scenarios may be true (e.g.\ Ellingson et al.\ \cite{ell1994};
Hamann et al.\ \cite{ham1997a}).

Clusters of absorbers of any type are of particular interest. On one
hand, clustering properties of intervening systems depend strongly on
the type of absorbers, while on the other hand complexes of associated
absorbers give a unique opportunity to analyze the properties of their
hosts and of the quasar emission.

The stumbling block in such studies is the fact that bright high
redshift quasars with rich absorption are rare (for examples of such
systems see, e.g., Morris et al.\ \cite{mor1986}; Foltz et al.\
\cite{fol1987}; Petitjean et al.\ \cite{pet1994}; Hamann et al.\
\cite{ham1997a}; Lespine \& Petitjean \cite{les1997}; Petitjean \&
Srianand \cite{pet1999}). There are only a few quasars known with more
than just a handful of associated absorption systems which are bright
enough to perform high resolution spectral analysis.

In this paper we present a bright $z_{\rm em}=2.51$ quasar
HS\,1603+3820 ($\alpha_{\rm 1950} = \mbox{16:03:07.7}, \delta_{\rm
1950} = \mbox{+38:20:07}$) with a very rich metal absorption
spectrum. It was discovered during the course of the Hamburg/CfA
Bright Quasar Survey (Hagen et al.\ \cite{hag1995}; Dobrzycki et al.\
\cite{dob1996}).  Quasar candidates in the survey are selected from
the objective prism spectra taken with the Hamburg Schmidt telescope
at Calar Alto, Spain.  Follow-up low resolution spectroscopy is
performed with the 1.5-m Tillinghast reflector with the FAST
spectrograph at Fred Lawrence Whipple Observatory on Mount Hopkins,
Arizona.

The discovery spectrum and other basic information on HS\,1603+3820
will be presented in the forthcoming survey paper (Engels et al.\
\cite{eng1999}). In this paper we present a more detailed analysis of
the MMT spectrum of HS\,1603+3820. Its very unusual properties
prompted us to make the quasar available to interested researchers
prior to the publication of the survey.

To our knowledge, there are no radio or X-ray sources near the
position of HS\,1603+3820.

The finding chart for HS\,1603+3820 is shown on
Fig.~\ref{fig:findingchart}.  HS\,1603+3820 was selected for followup
studies because of its unusually high brightness ($B=15.9$) for a
high-$z$ quasar and because the discovery spectrum hinted that there
could be absorption systems in the vicinity of the emission lines.

Observations performed with the Multiple Mirror Telescope\footnote{MMT
is a joint facility of the Smithsonian Institution and the University
of Arizona.} revealed a very rich heavy element absorption spectrum.
Several metal systems, both intervening and associated, are present,
including a couple of systems with $z_{\rm abs}>z_{\rm em}$. A unique
feature is a rich complex of at least five C{\sc iv} absorbers near
the emission redshift of the quasar.

This paper is organized as follows.  In Sect.~\ref{sec:observations}
we present the MMT observations of HS\,1603+3820. In
Sect.~\ref{sec:metals} we present the metal absorption systems. In
Sect.~\ref{sec:complex} we discuss the of C{\sc iv} absorbers at
$z_{\rm abs}\approx z_{\rm em}$ and present arguments that they likely
are associated with the quasar. We summarize our results in
Sect.~\ref{sec:summary}.

\section{Observations}\label{sec:observations}

Spectra presented here were obtained during two nights, April 12-13,
1997, at the Multiple Mirror Telescope (MMT) on Mt.~Hopkins, Arizona.
We used the Blue Channel spectrograph, with the 1200~l/mm grating in
first order, 1.25$\times$3~arcsec slit and the 3k$\times$1k Loral CCD,
binned by two in the spatial direction. Weather and seeing were very
good during both nights. The wavelength range of 3530--5050~\AA, which
contains the Ly-$\alpha$ forest part of the HS\,1603+3820 spectrum,
was observed for the total of 3300~seconds during two nights. On the
second night another 1200~second exposure was obtained for the
wavelength range containing the C{\sc iv} emission line,
4840--6350~\AA.  Spectra have 0.495~\AA/pixel binning and spectral
resolution of $\sim$3~pixels. The S/N ratio per resolution element in
the ``Ly-$\alpha$ spectrum'' varies from $\sim$40 to $\sim$100, and in
the ``C{\sc iv} spectrum'' it is roughly uniform at the level of
45--50.

\begin{figure*}
\resizebox{\hsize}{!}{\includegraphics{Bf802_f4.eps}}
\caption{The vicinity of Ly-$\alpha$ (top panel) and C{\sc iv} (bottom
panel) emission lines, plotted in the same redshift range. Dashed line
shows the adopted continuum. Lines from identified metal systems are
marked. Note: the complex of C{\sc iv} absorbers at $z_{\rm
abs}=2.41-2.45$, very strong system at $z_{\rm abs}=2.4794$, two
systems on the red wings of the emission lines at $z_{\rm abs}=2.5374$
and $z_{\rm abs}=2.5541$, and missing C{\sc iv} absorption for the
uncertain system at $z_{\rm abs}=2.5114$ (its expected location is
marked with dotted line). See text for discussion.}
\label{fig:emlines}
\end{figure*}

Continua were fitted to the spectra and the absorption line lists were
generated following the procedure similar to outlined in Scott et al.\
(\cite{sco1999a}, \cite{sco1999b}), where one can also find the
analysis of the Ly-$\alpha$ forest spectrum of HS\,1603+3820.
Interested researchers can access the line lists (as well as finding
chart and the spectra -- both plots and digital versions) on the World
Wide Web at http://hea-www.harvard.edu/QEDT/Papers/hs1603/.

Full spectra can be seen in Figs.~\ref{fig:lyaspectrum}
and~\ref{fig:civspectrum}. Fig.~\ref{fig:emlines} shows in detail the
vicinity of the Ly-$\alpha$ and C{\sc iv} emission lines.

It has to be noted that the continuum level in the region near
4250~\AA, which occurs near the peak of the Ly-$\alpha$ emission line,
is quite uncertain, making the emission redshift of the quasar
somewhat uncertain, since an important part of the line is seriously
affected by complex absorption. (Please note that this absorption is
{\em not} related to Broad Absorption Line phenomenon -- the
absorption lines affecting the Ly-$\alpha$ emission profile are not
Ly-$\alpha$.)  We adopted the emission redshift of the quasar of 2.51,
keeping in mind the well known fact that broad emission lines of
quasars can be blueshifted by as much as $\sim$1000~km\,s$^{-1}$ with
respect to ``true'' quasar redshift, as determined from narrow
forbidden lines (see e.g.\ Espey \cite{esp1993}). It should be noted
(and it will be discussed in a little more detail below) that there
are absorption lines at redshift as high as 2.55, but they clearly are
on the red wing of the emission lines, well past the peak emission.

\section{Heavy element absorption systems}\label{sec:metals}

As expected in a quasar with $z_{\rm em}=2.51$, there are numerous
absorption features in the Ly-$\alpha$ forest part of the
spectrum. The Ly-$\alpha$ forest of HS\,1603+3820 has been included in
the large sample of Scott et al.\ (\cite{sco1999b}). In the present
paper we concentrate on the heavy element absorption lines, presence
of which is clearly seen on top of the emission lines and redwards of
the Ly-$\alpha$ emission.

Metal systems in the spectrum were searched for in two ways. First, an
attempt was made to interactively identify all absorption lines
redwards of the Ly-$\alpha$ emission line. Second, heavy element line
searching code METALS, written by Jill Bechtold and kindly provided to
us by the author, was applied. In all, thirteen heavy element
absorption systems were found, though the reality of two of them is
somewhat shaky. Notes on individual systems follow.

$\langle z_{\rm abs} \rangle = 1.8882$: This is the first of the two
uncertain systems. Its identification relies primarily on the presence
of a doublet which has the wavelength ratio matching the ratio for the
C{\sc iv} doublet. Though this match is indeed very good, both lines
are possible blends with lines from other systems. Two other
identified lines, N{\sc v}(1242) and Fe{\sc ii}(1608), are also blends
with lines from other systems. The wavelength corresponding to the
Ly-$\alpha$ line lies outside of the spectrum.

$\langle z_{\rm abs} \rangle = 1.9650, 2.0703, 2.1762$: All these
systems are unambiguously identified, showing well resolved
Ly-$\alpha$, C{\sc iv}, and other lines.

$\langle z_{\rm abs} \rangle = 2.4189, 2.4270, 2.4367, 2.4420,
2.4523$: These are the confirmed systems that have their C{\sc iv}
lines in the complex in the blended region near 5320~\AA. See
Sect.~\ref{sec:complex} below for a more detailed discussion of the
complex.

$\langle z_{\rm abs} \rangle = 2.4794$: This is a very strong system,
just below the emission redshift of the quasar. As many as seventeen
absorption lines belonging to this system were identified. The Si{\sc
ii}(1526) line lies inside the C{\sc iv} complex near 5320~\AA, but is
easily recognizable. Very strong Ly-$\alpha$ and C{\sc iv} lines are
prominent on Fig.~\ref{fig:emlines}.  The Ly-$\alpha$ absorption line,
which is somewhat asymmetric on the red wing, is in fact a blend of
(at least) two lines: very strong Ly-$\alpha$ proper, and a weaker
line, which appears to be a member of another metal system(s).

$\langle z_{\rm abs} \rangle = 2.5114$: This is the second of the two
uncertain systems. If it is real, it is almost exactly a $z_{\rm
abs}=z_{\rm em}$ system. It has six lines at correct wavelengths,
including three Si{\sc ii} lines. The Ly-$\alpha$ line lies in the
middle of the blended region near 4250~\AA. There is, however, no
significant C{\sc iv} absorption. Dotted marker on the lower panel of
Fig.~\ref{fig:emlines} shows the expected location of the C{\sc iv}
doublet; the 5$\sigma$ rest equivalent width threshold at this
location is 0.07~\AA. Also, there are two other issues that make the
identification of this system uncertain. First, the system appears to
contain a somewhat unusual combination of lines. Second, the ratios of
line strengths of the Si{\sc ii} lines appear to be incorrect (Morton
\cite{mor1991}). Acknowledging that especially the second of these
problems casts doubts on the reality of this system, we hesitate,
however, to entirely discard it, since the identified Si{\sc ii} lines
may be blended with other lines, not to mention the fact that the
environment in the vicinity of the quasar central engine is likely to
be highly unusual.

$\langle z_{\rm abs} \rangle = 2.5374,2.5541$: These are the two
systems with $z_{\rm abs}>z_{\rm em}$ seen in the spectrum of
HS\,1603+3820. Both systems have Ly-$\alpha$, C{\sc iv}, and other
metal lines clearly resolved. See below for discussion.

\section{Complex of metal systems at $z_{\rm abs} \approx
z_{\rm em}$: intervening or associated?}\label{sec:complex}

The most interesting feature in the spectrum of HS\,1603+3820 is the
large number of systems with $z_{\rm abs} \approx z_{\rm em}$. Nine of
the metal systems are within 8000~km\,s$^{-1}$ of the quasar emission
redshift.  Of these, the most spectacular is a complex of at least
five C{\sc iv} absorption systems, all within 3000~km\,s$^{-1}$ from
one another. Other systems may be present in the complex, but limited
resolution of our data does not allow us to claim that at a reasonable
level of confidence.

The average ejection velocity of the complex, i.e.\ displacement from
the redshift of the quasar in velocity units, is
$\sim$6500~km\,s$^{-1}$. In principle, large ejection velocities would
indicate that these systems are intervening, i.e.\ are not associated
physically with the quasar. On the other hand, convincing arguments
were presented (Hamann et al.\ \cite{ham1997b}, Richards et al.\
\cite{ric1999}) that absorbers with much larger ejection velocities
could be intrinsic to the quasar.

Of the three methods for distinguishing between intrinsic and
intervening systems (see Barlow \& Sargent \cite{bar1997}, Hamann et
al.\ \cite{ham1997a}, and references therein) -- details of shapes of
absorption lines, temporal variability of line strengths, and partial
covering of quasars by the absorbers -- only the third can be applied
in our case. The first is precluded by insufficient resolution of our
data. The second was made impossible by decommissioning of the MMT,
since we could not observe the quasar again with the same
telescope/detector combination, which is a standard approach in such a
case. We can, however, attempt to estimate whether at least one of the
systems in the complex obscures the emission source in the quasar
entirely. If it does not, it is a strong indication that the cloud in
which the absorption system originates is physically associated with
the quasar.

The C{\sc iv} doublet at $\langle z_{\rm abs} \rangle = 2.4189$, which
has $v_{\rm ej}\approx8000$~km\,s$^{-1}$, is at the high ejection
velocity end of the C{\sc iv} complex. The lines from this doublet
fulfill all the conditions needed for the quasar covering factor
criterion: they are satisfactorily well resolved, they are markedly
broader than the spectrum resolution, and they are not contaminated by
absorption lines from any other known systems. If these two lines are
indeed resolved, we find the C{\sc iv}(1548)/C{\sc iv}(1550) ratio in
this system to be close to 1, which indicates that the system is
optically thick. At the same time, the lines do not reach zero
intensity in their bottoms, which suggests that the cloud in which the
lines originate does not obscure the entire continuum emitting
source. That in turn suggests that this absorption system is intrinsic
to the quasar. The lower ejection velocity systems in the complex also
do not reach zero intensity, which makes it reasonable to assume that
they are also associated with the quasar (even though we cannot
unambiguously establish whether they are saturated).

There are three (or four, if one includes the uncertain $z_{\rm
abs}=z_{\rm em}$ system) other heavy element systems with ejection
velocities lower than the complex. Two of these systems are clearly
infalling: even if the emission redshift of the quasar is indeed
underestimated by as much as 1000~km\,s$^{-1}$, these systems still
have $z_{\rm abs}>z_{\rm em}$; their infall velocities are $\sim$2000
and $\sim$3600~km\,s$^{-1}$ with respect to adopted emission redshift
of the quasar.

Arguments presented above suggest that all eight (or nine) systems are
physically associated with the quasar. If this is the case, then all
systems need to be considered as one large associated absorption
complex, with dispersion of $\sim$4300~km\,s$^{-1}$.

It appears that the absorption originates in clouds in the immediate
vicinity of the quasar. The ejection velocities and the velocity
dispersion of the complex (both of the order of thousands of
km\,s$^{-1}$) appear to be too high to interpret the absorbers as
originating in the halos of galaxies in the quasar host cluster.

\section{Summary}\label{sec:summary}

The combination of high redshift, brightness, richness of the heavy
element absorption -- and associated absorption in particular -- in
the spectrum of HS\,1603+3820 is truly unique. Eleven confirmed C{\sc
iv} systems in the spectrum of HS\,1603+3820 ranks among the richest
known. The York catalog (York et al.\ \cite{yor1991}, Richards et al.\
\cite{ric1999}) contains only 10 other quasars with a greater number
of absorbers. Of these quasars, only two (Q0958+551 and Q1225+317) are
of comparable brightness, but both are at considerably lower
redshifts.

HS\,1603+3820 is even more spectacular when associated absorption
spectrum is concerned. York's catalog contains only three quasars
which have eight or more systems within 8000~km\,s$^{-1}$ of the
emission redshift (Q1037--270, Q1511+091 and Q1556+335). All three are
much fainter; among QSOs brighter than 16~mag no object comes close to
HS\,1603+3820.

We can hypothesize that since none of the absorbers in the complex
appears to be drastically different than the other ones they all may
have been produced by a single event in the quasar's past, and that
they may represent the velocity dispersion of shells of matter ejected
during this event. On the other hand, the spectrum also contains an
absorber which is much stronger than the systems from the complex, as
well as two infalling absorbers, which indicate that the environment
of HS\,1603+3820 is more complicated.

We stress that this paper presents an analysis based on the
observations in relatively low resolution. Our conclusions are by
necessity mostly qualitative since the resolution is inadequate for
performing detailed studies of chemical composition or velocity
structure of the individual systems. High resolution studies of the
complex will be of special interest, since it is heavily blended in
our data and it is very likely that high resolution spectrum will
reveal more absorption systems. HS\,1603+3820 is very bright for a
$z=2.51$ quasar and is therefore an excellent candidate for such
observations.

\acknowledgements

We would like to thank T.~Aldcroft, J.~Bechtold, D.~Dobrzycka,
M.~Elvis, S.~Mathur, J.~Scott, and A.~Siemiginowska for helpful
discussions, A.~Milone for assistance at the MMT, and F.~Drake for
providing good working environment for this project. T.~Aldcroft and
J.~Bechtold wrote computer codes that were used in the analysis.
A.D. acknowledges support from NASA Contract No.~NAS8-39073 (Chandra
X-Ray Observatory Center). The Hamburg Quasar Survey is supported by
the DFG through grants Re~353/11 and Re~353/22.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaArXiv


text:
Leveraging innovation to support food security - South Sudanese Youth: Rethinking Agriculture for employability
Nile Agro-tech Juba team
UNDP/Jacqueline
South Sudan, one of the world's most food insecure countries, has less than 1% percent of the global population, but about 55 percent of South Sudanese face acute food insecurity. Insecurity, conflict, displacement, and climate-induced shocks are primarily the key drivers of food system insecurity.
Many years ago, and even recently, most people despised the farm; agriculture was perceived as something for the old and the poor. Most of the people, a majority of them young, had a negative image of agriculture because they saw it as back-breaking work, low value, and 'dirty.' However, this mindset is slowly changing; South Sudanese youth are changing this narrative and are taking their space in Agri-preneurship for employment.
Ignite challenge team during the user persona activity
Given the shift in the mindset of the youth and prevailing circumstances in the country, investment in food systems innovation is crucial to sustainable development and improving food security in South Sudan. The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), with the support of USAID Bureau of Humanitarian Affairs (BHA) and in partnership with the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (MAFS), launched the IGNITE Food System Challenge in November 2021 to look for South Sudan's brightest and newest ideas on how to tackle hunger, improve food security and strengthen food systems.
What is "Food Systems"?
Interlocking networks of relationships that encompass functions of producing, processing, marketing, consuming, and disposing of goods from agriculture, forestry or fisheries. In other words, it involves all activities needed to produce and transform food and ensure it reaches people.
AccLab Training during Ignite Food Systems Boot camp
UNDP/Tong Atak
Design thinking approach
With clarity on the interconnectedness among the ventures that applied to compete, a few of the ventures selected for the challenge were taken through the design thinking approach at a Bootcamp that aimed to nurture and equip these young entrepreneurs and innovators with skills to evolve their ideas and business to the next level. This was geared towards enabling them to look beyond and innovate for food security, scoring achievements that would cascade beyond their teams to other stakeholders and inform the agriculture value addition. In more ways than one, the design thinking training flipped the linear thought process on its head, allowing the agri-preneurs to see the challenges as opportunities, encouraging peer learning amongst ventures, innovation, and creativity in solving challenges facing food systems and food insecurity in South Sudan.
"After the training, it is worth noting that South Sudan has huge untapped agribusiness potential but with little or no existing value chain development. Through the practical skills gained in the bootcamp, we developed strategies on how tap into the value chain potential in our businesses" South Link, one of the shortlisted companies.
The Cooperative Bank of South Sudan financial experts shared best practice on agricultural finance and microfinance practice for agripreneurs. This aimed to offer alternative sources of capital for the companies to diversify their investment options beyond the IGNITE Food Challenge grant for future sustainability and business growth.
The selected enterprises worked on refining their business models to scale up their businesses through various design thinking tools such as user personas and user journey maps. They identified opportunities for innovative solutions presented by some of the challenges in food systems in South Sudan, such as infrastructure, insecurity, and access to markets.
This is part one of a two series blog, watch out for part two coming soon on learnings from the ventures on their ignition journey.
Follow us on Twitter for updates! @Undpsouthsudan.
World Wetlands Day: Time to Connect the Dots, Protect and Restore our Wetlands
Madaba traveller's personas
Coding Summer Bootcamp: technology creators and not mere users
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Reflections on inclusion, innovation and accelerating the future we want
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text:
That's Not My Age
the grown-up guide to great style — edited by Alyson Walsh
Style For All Ages
What Women Wear
Expert Style Advice
Books, films, exhibitions
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The Iris Apfel documentary
July 31st 2015 — by Alyson Walsh
Photo: Bruce Weber
Everyone loves Iris. And so do I. In the late Albert Maysles film, designers, editors and fashion executives are falling all over themselves to orbit the 'geriatric starlet'. If you love life and style, you'll love this heartwarming documentary (out in the UK, today; Fri 25 July 2015). Iris was one of the 'Inspirational Women' I interviewed for my book, calling her up in New York and hearing her nasally, 'Hello Ap-fel residence,' on the other end of the line was one of my highlights. She's sharp, she's no-nonsense and she's full of life. Iris the movie is as colourful and brilliant as one of the New York nonagenarian's crazy outfits.
From the opening soundtrack – the sound of Iris' jewellery jangling – we go behind-the-scenes in New York and Palm Beach. 'It's a total trip. It's always Christmas here,' says photographer Bruce Weber as the camera pans to a toy Kermit the Frog sitting on an ostrich in the New York pad. The couple, who've been married for 67 years are absolutely wonderful together; warm and funny and very loving. 'He was cool, he was cuddly and he cooked Chinese,' she quips. 'It's never a dull marriage. You never know what's going to happen with this kid,' adds 100-year-old Carl, 'She's very talented, I think I'll keep her.'
Photo: Rex
Just how remarkable the soon-to-be 94-year-old woman is hits home when you see her shopping, in a wheelchair, with the designer Duro Olowu. It's not all baubles and soundbites, husband Carl is not very well with a coronary issue, but Apfel 'lives in the present' and does so with humour. She tells a tale about the Rare Bird of Fashion exhibition, where her nephew overhears visitors assuming she's dead,' I told him to tell them "My auntie is very much alive. She's just walking around to save funeral expenses."'
It's a fantastic film, a real joy, and *spoiler alert* here are some my favourite Apfel-isms:
'My mother worshipped at the alter of accessories. She could do things with a scarf that I have never seen anyone do.'
On plastic surgery, 'Oh god no, I'm very opposed to that, unless god gave you a nose like Pinocchio or you're in a fire. You could come out looking like a Picasso.'
'Colour is so important. Colour can raise the dead.'
'Carl is very happy to be sailing into his second century.'
When asked regularly how she is, Iris's response is always, 'Well, I'm vertical so I'm happy.' What an amazing woman.
Discussion (15 Comments)
Your spoilers won't stop me seeing this, Iris is an inspiration.
Oh I cannot wait to see it. She's incredible for any age. xo
GSL says:
I stopped at spoiler alerts because I definitely will Netflix this one day. I love seeing and hearing about the lives of smart, interesting older people; especially those well past 80. They are so much more real, understand life better, and have long outgrown the petty nonsense such and just tell you what they think.
Olderbutwiser says:
Interview with her on Newsnight this week (UK) hilarious. A true mistress of the 'one liners'.
What a mind…..sharp as a tack.
Karen Barlow says:
Hi Alyson,
I totally loved this film, what an inspiration Iris is. She is a true revolutionary and doesn't give a damn about following any fashion rules. What a wonderful warm character she is and her relationship with her husband is adorable. I came out of the cinema feeling a new spring in my step at the age of 51, anything is possible, Iris is proof that age is just a number!
TNMA says:
That's so true, GSL.
I saw it olderbutwiser -love Steven Smith anyway & thought he was fantastic with Iris. Brilliant!
Agree, Karen. They are so lovely together and so inspirational.
I can't wait to see it. I first saw her on Advanced Style and loved seeing her and admiring her joie de vivre. Hope I'm like that if I'm blessed to make it to then. Love Iris Apfel.
Sue Ekahn says:
Iris Apfel is SO fabulous! I met her once shopping the "Posh on Park" sale at the armory; she was carrying a ginormous armload of clothes on hangers while we briefly spoke. I LOVE her style, especially her accessorizing with those wonderful beads and oversized jewelry! She reminds me so much of Mrs. Vreeland in the "Fashion Icon" sense; their personal style of dresssing is much different. I can attest to that, truthfully, as I was Mrs. Vreeland's personal assistant/shopper on twenty-four hours a day call 1979-1986, and from 1986-1989 I would read her fashion articles and items of interest keeping her abreast. Mrs. Vreeland's personal style was not as flamboyant as Iris Apfel's is; her fabulous flamboyance was in her work as a fashion editor at Harper's Bazaar, as Editor-in-Chief of Vogue, and as the founder of the Costume Institute at the Met, its exhibitions, and its yearly Gala celebrating her incredibly curated exhibitions. That said, respectfully, I think that Mrs. Vreeland should also have the honor of having something named after her like Anna Wintour currently and most deservedly has. Without Mrs. Vreeland establishing the Costume Institute in the first place, Anna Wintour might not be involved with the museum.
Hello Sue, thanks for your comment. And wow, what a fantastic job – bet you've got a few tales to tell (?) When I was watching the film I was reminded of Diana Vreeland; not by Iris' clothes but by her witty soundbites. There is definitely a similarity. Also, if Diana Vreeland hadn't established the Costume Institute the world might not have discovered Iris Apfel!
Thanks for your reply! I am so looking forward to seeing this documentary. When and where is it opening in New York?
Jane Dalea-Kahn says:
I'm not a hater. I love the whole "advanced style" movement. Bravo. And I saw the movie which honestly, was a bit too long. Don't get me wrong, I love Iris and I love her style. She's cool and obviously it's worked very well for her. But let's face it. She's an upscale hoarder. She has racks upon racks of clothing. So much so, I believe it has to be stored in various places around town. She has stacks and stacks of jewelry. Endless beads of every shape, size and color. Cuffs. Bracelets. Everything in droves. The question is, when is enough stuff, enough? Honestly, it's excessive to say the least. And all this stuff won't fix anyone or make most of us 'fashionable'. And yes, after seeing the movie, did I want to go out to the nearest flea market and root around for treasures? Of course. I wish I would have seen a more 'giving' side of Iris. Stuff, stuff and more stuff isn't the answer.
Linda Kerr says:
Jane, I echo your sentiments exactly.
I so much agree with Jane.
Also being rich sure helps. How is a working person or even a well paid professional can amass such stuff and rub elbow to elbow with the designers? It is all a curated and well designed fantasy. i think most older women will look so out of place if they are dressed this way, NOT walking on Fifth Avenue and NOT attending this ball or that gala.
I saw the film at our local art museum this summer with daughters and a few granddaughters. SIris is such ann inspiration. Love, love, LOVED it!!
Stefan Botts says:
Her sharp, unfiltered aphorisms make the movie a glittering trove of wisdom. YOU CAN'T TAKE YOUR EYES OFF IRIS APFEL, BUT, THEN, WHY WOULD YOU WANT TO?
Please be respectful and kind.
How to wear army green (or my new favourite colour combination)
Everyone loves Iris. And so do I.
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nkconsultancy Save #Money and keep your #Boat looking new by visiting http://bit.ly/1LZwljx from experts. We are boat #Repairer in #Auckland, #NZ.
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text:
US Government's Refusal to Confirm or Deny It Put American Journalist on Drone Kill List Called 'Chilling'
"The government seeks to shield itself from all inquiry into the process by which it acts as prosecutor, judge, jury, and executioner."
A man walks by a U.S. drone graffiti painted on a wall during a campaign against drones in Yemen on May 31, 2018 in Sana'a, Yemen. (Photo: Mohammed Hamoud/Getty Images)
Lawyers for an American journalist who believes he was placed on the government's infamous "kill list" warned Tuesday that the rights of all U.S. citizens are at stake if the country's drone assassination program is allowed to continue.
The organization's comments came as part of a response to the U.S. government's attempt to dismiss a lawsuit regarding its use of the list. Reprieve is representing Bilal Abdul Kareem, a journalist and U.S. citizen who claims he was repeatedly targeted —and nearly killed on five separate occasions—by drone and missile attacks in 2016 when he was reporting on the ongoing conflict in Syria.
Kareem joined an Al Jazeera journalist in 2017 in a lawsuit against the government, demanding that the Trump administration remove their names from the "kill list" of potential targets for the U.S. drone program.
If the government manages to have the lawsuit dismissed, legal experts warn it would allow the Trump administration and future presidents to secretly place any American on a kill list without telling them why, therefore stripping them of their constitutional right to due process.
"The government's assertion that it has the right to mark its own citizens for death, based on secret information, without affording them the legal protections offered by the Constitution, is chilling." —Jennifer Gibson, Reprieve"The right to due process has been a bedrock of the judicial system, and one of the pillars that support a free society going back eight centuries to the Magna Carta," wrote Tom Emswiler and Will Isenberg in the Boston Globe last summer. "It is the birthright of every American. Gaining a tactical advantage is not worth losing that heritage."
As Common Dreams reported at the time of the filing, Kareem believes the Obama administration placed him on the kill list and wants President Donald Trump to remove his name, asserting that his inclusion "is the result of arbitrary and capricious agency action, accomplished without due process, and in violation of the United States Constitution and U.S. and international law."
The government responded that if those included on the U.S. kill list were to be informed and given a trial, national security could be jeopardized during the court case.
Such a claim suggests that the right of the U.S. to operate its drone program trumps Kareem's—and all Americans'—Fifth and 14th Amendment rights, Reprieve said.
"By invoking the state secrets privilege in the context of designating a U.S. citizen for lethal action, the government seeks to shield itself from all inquiry into the process by which it acts as prosecutor, judge, jury, and executioner of plaintiff Bilal Abdul Kareem," said Reprieve and the law firm Lewis Baach Kaufmann Middlemiss, which is also representing Kareem, in a statement Tuesday.
The government, in its motion to dismiss, said that Kareem's due process rights would be satisfied simply by allowing him to present evidence that he has been wrongly placed on the kill list, and that the government was under no obligation to repond.
Reprieve rejected that argument, saying it was akin to "limiting the accused to unilaterally contending that he is innocent of unknown charges in the hopes of persuading a silent, opaque coterie of government officials not to kill him."
"The government's assertion that it has the right to mark its own citizens for death, based on secret information, without affording them the legal protections offered by the Constitution, is chilling," said Jennifer Gibson, co-counsel for Kareem.
"The consequences of this action are too severe," Reprieve added, "and the right [to due process] too foundational to a constitutional democracy, to allow the government to secretly condemn an American citizen to death."
Rights, U.S.
Reprieve, Drones, Kill List, Human Rights, Journalism


Here's a book written for people from all walks of life, not just science boffins!
The reader is invited to enter the climate debate, likened to a twisting maze or hall of mirrors, with dead-ends, illusions, traps - that are the lies, misinformation, over-simplifications and false prophecies on both sides.
The book was written by an award-winning scientist, who went on 4 expeditions to Antarctica with the United States Office of Polar Programs.
A clever book that poses questions and will challenge your thinking about the climate debate.
I am especially fond of Mirrors and Mazes...written for intelligent laymen who like to think for themselves.


Welcome to Tasty Image, home of the ultimate chocolate experience. Our stores are the center of it all when it comes to personalized gifts and party favors. Enjoy a full chocolate specturm of flavors, tastes and experiences.


Let me remind you that confrontation is unavoidable. You're leading people, and people are imperfect. In fact, you're a person too, so you're imperfect. And when imperfect people lead imperfect people, there will be problems.
Confrontation is not a sign of bad leadership. Avoiding it at all costs may just be. If confrontations is inevitable, good leaders aren't those who never have to do it. They're the ones who do it the right way.
In Part 1, we laid out the right way to confront. It takes confronting quickly, in love and always assuming the best. When it comes to one-on-one confrontation, that means you do it personally and privately.
Get ready for National Church Planting Day!


SUNNYVALE, CA--(Marketwired - July 05, 2016) - Viveve Medical, Inc. ("Viveve") (NASDAQ: VIVE), a medical technology company focused on women's health, today announced six new distribution partnerships that expand commercial availability of the Viveve System to fourteen additional countries in Latin America. The new relationships provide for distribution of the Viveve System in: Argentina, Peru, Paraguay (Sirex S.A.) and Chile (Torregal), Columbia and Ecuador (Alphaeon Columbia S.A.S.), Mexico (Vitre-Tech), Panama, Costa Rica, Guatemala and Dominican Republic (Coolmed, S.A.), Uruguay (Adenor, S.A.), and Venezuela and the Caribbean (MARC Group International, LLC).
"The Latin American region represents one of the world's largest markets for aesthetic medical procedures," said Jim Atkinson, president and chief business officer of Viveve. "Our collaboration with a distinguished group of distribution partners will help us to increase our presence in the region while providing outstanding service and customer support."
Viveve now has 23 exclusive partnerships covering distribution in 65 countries around the world and has received regulatory clearance for the Viveve System in 25 of those countries thus far.
"We believe the combination of our internationally patented technology, the experience and professionalism of our partners, and the acceptance of innovative medical procedures in all of our target markets will advance Viveve's reputation as a leading provider of women's health products in this important region," said Patricia Scheller, chief executive officer of Viveve. "Available safety and efficacy data continue to support the use of Viveve Treatment as a painless procedure to treat the common condition of vaginal laxity, which can profoundly impact a woman's sexual satisfaction and quality of life."
Viveve Medical, Inc., is a women's health company passionately committed to advancing new solutions to improve women's overall well-being and quality of life. The company's lead product, the internationally patented Viveve System, is a non-surgical, non-ablative medical device that remodels collagen and restores tissue with only one treatment session. The Viveve System treats the condition of vaginal laxity that can result in decreased physical sensation and sexual satisfaction. Physician surveys indicate that vaginal laxity is the number one post-delivery physical change for women, being more prevalent than weight gain, urinary incontinence or stretch marks. The Viveve Treatment uses patented, reverse-thermal gradient radiofrequency technology to restore vaginal tissue in one 30-minute out-patient treatment in a physician's office. The Viveve System has received regulatory approval in many countries throughout the world and is available through physician import license in Japan. It is currently not available for sale in the U.S. For more information, please visit Viveve's website at www.viveve.com.
All statements in this press release that are not based on historical fact are "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, and are subject to the safe harbors created by that Act. While management has based any forward-looking statements included in this press release on its current expectations, the information on which such expectations were based may change. These forward-looking statements rely on a number of assumptions concerning future events and are subject to a number of risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are outside of our control, which could cause actual results to materially differ from such statements. Such risks, uncertainties and other factors include, but are not limited to, the fluctuation of global economic conditions, the performance of management and our employees, our ability to obtain financing, competition, general economic conditions and other factors that are to be detailed in our periodic and current reports available for review at www.sec.gov. Furthermore, we operate in a highly competitive and rapidly changing environment where new and unanticipated risks may arise. Accordingly, investors should not place any reliance on forward-looking statements as a prediction of actual results. We disclaim any intention to, and undertake no obligation to, update or revise forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that subsequently occur or of which we hereafter become aware.


text:
require 'spec_helper'

# TODO: the usual respond_to? method doesn't seem to work on Thor objects.
# Why not? For now, we'll check against instance_methods.

RSpec.describe Moose::Inventory::Cli::Host do
  before(:all) do
    # Set up the configuration object
    @mockarg_parts = {
      config:  File.join(spec_root, 'config/config.yml'),
      format:  'yaml',
      env:     'test',
    }

    @mockargs = []
    @mockarg_parts.each do |key, val|
      @mockargs << "--#{key}"
      @mockargs << val
    end

    @config = Moose::Inventory::Config
    @config.init(@mockargs)

    @db = Moose::Inventory::DB
    @db.init if @db.db.nil?

    @host = Moose::Inventory::Cli::Host
    @app = Moose::Inventory::Cli::Application
  end

  before(:each) do
    @db.reset
  end

  #=======================
  describe 'addgroup' do
    #------------------------
    it 'Host.addgroup() should be responsive' do
      result = @host.instance_methods(false).include?(:addgroup)
      expect(result).to eq(true)
    end

    #------------------------
    it 'host addgroup <missing args> ... should abort with an error' do
      actual = runner do
        @app.start(%w(host addgroup)) # <- no group given
      end

      # Check output
      desired = { aborted: true }
      desired[:STDERR] = "ERROR: Wrong number of arguments, 0 for 2 or more.\n"
      expected(actual, desired)
    end

    #------------------------
    it 'host addgroup HOST GROUP ... should abort if the host does not exist' do
      actual = runner do
        @app.start(%w(host addgroup not-a-host example))
      end

      # Check output
      desired = { aborted: true }
      desired[:STDOUT] =
        "Associate host 'not-a-host' with groups 'example':\n"\
        "  - Retrieve host 'not-a-host'...\n"
      desired[:STDERR] =
        "An error occurred during a transaction, any changes have been rolled back.\n"\
        "ERROR: The host 'not-a-host' was not found in the database.\n"
      expected(actual, desired)
    end

    #------------------------
    it 'host addgroup HOST GROUP ... should add the host to an existing group' do
      # 1. Should add the host to the group
      # 2. Should remove the host from the 'ungrouped' automatic group

      name = 'test1'
      group_name = 'testgroup1'

      runner { @app.start(%W(host add #{name})) }
      @db.models[:group].create(name: group_name)

      actual = runner { @app.start(%W(host addgroup #{name} #{group_name})) }

      # rubocop:disable Metrics/LineLength
      desired = { aborted: false }
      desired[:STDOUT] =
        "Associate host '#{name}' with groups '#{group_name}':\n"\
        "  - Retrieve host '#{name}'...\n"\
        "    - OK\n"\
        "  - Add association {host:#{name} <-> group:#{group_name}}...\n"\
        "    - OK\n"\
        "  - Remove automatic association {host:#{name} <-> group:ungrouped}...\n"\
        "    - OK\n"\
        "  - All OK\n"\
        "Succeeded\n"
      expected(actual, desired)
      # rubocop:enable Metrics/LineLength

      # We should have the correct group associations
      host = @db.models[:host].find(name: name)
      groups = host.groups_dataset
      expect(groups.count).to eq(1)
      expect(groups[name: group_name]).not_to be_nil
      expect(groups[name: 'ungrouped']).to be_nil # redundant, but for clarity!
    end

    #------------------------
    it 'HOST \'ungrouped\' ... should abort with an error' do
      name = 'test1'
      group_name = 'ungrouped'

      runner { @app.start(%W(host add #{name})) }

      actual = runner { @app.start(%W(host addgroup #{name} #{group_name})) }

      desired = { aborted: true }
      desired[:STDERR] =
        "ERROR: Cannot manually manipulate the automatic group 'ungrouped'.\n"
      expected(actual, desired)
    end

    #------------------------
    it 'HOST GROUP ... should add the host to an group, creating the group if necessary' do
      name = 'test1'
      group_name = 'testgroup1'

      runner { @app.start(%W(host add #{name})) }

      # DON'T CREATE THE GROUP! That's the point of the test. ;o)

      actual = runner { @app.start(%W(host addgroup #{name} #{group_name})) }

      # Check output
      desired = { aborted: false }
      desired[:STDOUT] =
        "Associate host '#{name}' with groups '#{group_name}':\n"\
        "  - Retrieve host '#{name}'...\n"\
        "    - OK\n"\
        "  - Add association {host:#{name} <-> group:#{group_name}}...\n"\
        "    - Group does not exist, creating now...\n"\
        "      - OK\n"\
        "    - OK\n"\
        "  - Remove automatic association {host:#{name} <-> group:ungrouped}...\n"\
        "    - OK\n"\
        "  - All OK\n"\
        "Succeeded\n"
      desired[:STDERR] =
        "WARNING: Group '#{group_name}' does not exist and will be created."
      expected(actual, desired)

      # Check db
      host = @db.models[:host].find(name: name)
      groups = host.groups_dataset
      expect(groups.count).to eq(1)
      expect(groups[name: group_name]).not_to be_nil
      expect(groups[name: 'ungrouped']).to be_nil # redundant, but for clarity!
    end

    #------------------------
    it 'HOST GROUP ... should skip associations that already '\
      ' exist, but raise a warning.' do
      name = 'test1'
      group_name = 'testgroup1'

      runner { @app.start(%W(host add #{name})) }

      # DON'T CREATE THE GROUP! That's the point of the test. ;o)

      # Run once to make the association
      runner { @app.start(%W(host addgroup #{name} #{group_name})) }

      # Run again, to prove expected result
      actual = runner { @app.start(%W(host addgroup #{name} #{group_name})) }

      # Check output
      # Note: This time, we don't expect to see any messages about
      # dissociation from 'ungrouped'
      desired = { aborted: false }
      desired[:STDOUT] =
        "Associate host '#{name}' with groups '#{group_name}':\n"\
        "  - Retrieve host \'#{name}\'...\n"\
        "    - OK\n"\
        "  - Add association {host:#{name} <-> group:#{group_name}}...\n"\
        "    - Already exists, skipping.\n"\
        "    - OK\n"\
        "  - All OK\n"\
        "Succeeded\n"
      desired[:STDERR] = "WARNING: Association {host:#{name} <-> group:#{group_name}} already exists, skipping."
      expected(actual, desired)

      # Check db
      host = @db.models[:host].find(name: name)
      groups = host.groups_dataset
      expect(groups.count).to eq(1)
      expect(groups[name: group_name]).not_to be_nil
      expect(groups[name: 'ungrouped']).to be_nil # redundant, but for clarity!
    end

    #------------------------
    it 'host addgroup GROUP1 GROUP1 ... should add the host to'\
      ' multiple groups at once' do
      name = 'test1'
      group_names = %w(group1 group2 group3)

      runner { @app.start(%W(host add #{name})) }

      actual = runner { @app.start(%W(host addgroup #{name}) + group_names) }

      # Check output
      desired = { aborted: false, STDERR: '' }
      desired[:STDOUT] =
        "Associate host '#{name}' with groups '#{group_names.join(',')}':\n"\
        "  - Retrieve host '#{name}'...\n"\
        "    - OK\n"
      group_names.each do |group|
        desired[:STDOUT] = desired[:STDOUT] +
                           "  - Add association {host:#{name} <-> group:#{group}}...\n"\
                           "    - Group does not exist, creating now...\n"\
                           "      - OK\n"\
                           "    - OK\n"

        desired[:STDERR] = desired[:STDERR] +
                           "WARNING: Group '#{group}' does not exist and will be created."
      end
      desired[:STDOUT] = desired[:STDOUT] +
                         "  - Remove automatic association {host:#{name} <-> group:ungrouped}...\n"\
                         "    - OK\n"\
                         "  - All OK\n"\
                         "Succeeded\n"
      expected(actual, desired)

      # We should have group associations
      host = @db.models[:host].find(name: name)
      groups = host.groups_dataset
      expect(groups).not_to be_nil

      # There should be 3 relationships, but not with 'ungrouped'
      expect(groups.count).to eq(3)
      group_names.each do |group|
        expect(groups[name: group]).not_to be_nil
      end
      expect(groups[name: 'ungrouped']).to be_nil
    end
  end
end

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


We take a lot of pride with the many letters that we receive from the families we have served. Each letter thanks us for the caring ways during their time of loss. Each word warms our hearts. With each family we serve we provide exceptional professionalism, compassion, and provide true value of the services we work hard to provide.
I am so pleased with everything you did for Helen Shook's passing. Her hair and makeup were perfect and you did everything just like I wanted. One other thing that I really appreciated were the memorial cards with the hummingbird on it. She just loved to watch the hummingbirds from her window.
Thank you so much for your compassion and guidance as we mourned the loss of our mother, Patricia. The care you showed our mother and us during this difficult time shows that this is not just a business to you. May God bless you all so that you can continue to help families dealing with the loss of their loved ones.
Everyone was extremely helful during this whole process. Seems like they couldn't do enough to make us comfortable and to satisfy all our wishes.
The process couldn't have been easier - thanks so much for all your help.
I very much appreciate how well everyone helped us when my mother died. you handled everything from transporting her body from South Carolina to Ohio, to providing a minister to perform the ceremony at the graveside. I was especially impressed with your staff member who very promptly sent the details of the bill that I needed for the probate court where I live. Thank you again for your service.
Our family was very pleased with your services. Our family has used your funeral services for many years and will continue to do so. Everyone was very helpful.
Your staff was excellent and I would certainly recommend.
The whole family was grateful for how everything was handled. Your helpfulness in every way was great. Our family has been with you guys for a long time and will stay with you all.
The Rowe/Simpson family sincerely appreciates the assistance received from the staff at Jerry Spears Funeral Home. Steve was always available to answer all questions. Jennifer went out of her way to process paperwork and more importantly they were compassionate and listened to the needs of the family when it came to finances. Thank You.
Very much appreciate the professional way you all helped us through this difficult time. Would highly recommend Jerry Spears.
How can we ever express the gratitude we feel in our hearts for the kindness and compassion you showed our family as we gathered to say goodbye to Dad. We truly appreciated it more than you'll ever know. Dad would have been so pleased. Thank you and God bless.
Could not have asked for a more professional company. Everything was perfect from the planning meeting to the grave side service. I have had many compliments on her service. The picture video was amazing. Thanks to Jerry Spears for making such a sad time a smooth process – I would advise everyone to use this great west-side establishment.
To All. Our family would like to express our sincere gratitude and thanks for such care and professionalism that was given to our loved one. Thank you, Steve for such empathy that was given in such a stressful time. You have surely earned you good name. Thank you.
I think you guys have done a great job at having flexible hours and be able to accommodate to our culture in a funeral. We like that you were able to work with us on the priority as well.
Steve Spears is a very kind and professional person. Was nice just getting to know him. Everything "Top Notch" … And thanks to Jennifer, she is a very professional and caring person. People should be told hey are appreciated.
The assistance provided by Robert Spears Jr. was very helpful. He explained the services and cost very well. Jennifer, in the office also provided great service and follow up assistance with death certificates. The minister at the service was adequate.
Bob very accommodating and explained things very well. Break room very nice too.
Steven. Thanks for meeting with me. We feel much better knowing that our family doesn't have to worry about making funeral arrangements. We appreciate your kind assistance.
Dear Steven. Thank you for the support and kindness that you provided our family during a very challenging time in our lived. Your patience and attention to our every need meant more than you might know. Thank you too for personally driving Patrick to the Church and gravesite. I don't know if you driving is the norm, but it felt as though family was taking care of him. May God bless you.
You did a great job on Harley Swinehart. Especially with the cards and videos. Thank you very much. I would tell everyone to come to you!!! Thank you very much!
Thank you for all you've done. No one wants to go through this but your guidance was evaluable.
Everything was done professionally. We appreciate your excellence in the care that was given to my mother in-law, Shelby. Thank you.
The Parder family wants to express our sincere appreciatetion for your kindness during this difficult time. Words cannot express our gratitude for the support and help that was shown to us through this difficult time. God continues to bless on you do. The Chirst.


Below are links to the syllabus, tutorials, quizzes, and instructions for all of the labs.
INITIAL CHECK LIST FOR CHEMISTRY KIT RELEASE.
First 4 columns need to be completed before kit can be released.
Sign when picking up kit.


If you have ever tried to enforce a restrictive covenant agreement in Illinois, you know that enforcing that agreement under Illinois law can be a real pain. In Reliable Fire Equipment Co. v. Arredondo, the Illinois Supreme Court finally took a giant step toward clarifying Illinois' restrictive covenant law. This case is in line with a recent trend in Wisconsin, and to an extent, nationally, to strengthen the enforcement of restrictive covenant agreements and to provide clearer guidance on these matters. Click here for more on how restrictive covenant law has recently evolved in Wisconsin.
Illinois courts generally enforce restrictive covenant agreements if they: (1) are necessary to protect the legitimate interest of the employer; (2) do not impose a hardship on the employee or the public; and (3) are otherwise reasonable. Although this three-pronged test seems simple enough, the case law that has emerged from it has been anything but helpful.
Despite the Illinois Supreme Court's consistent application of this three-pronged test, recent Illinois Court of Appeals cases muddied the waters. In one case, Sunbelt Rentals, Inc. v. Ehlers, the court of appeals held that courts only need to examine the time and territory restrictions in the agreement to determine its enforceability –- determining whether the employer has a legitimate business interest is unnecessary.
To make matters worse, the court of appeals developed tests within the three-pronged test to determine whether the employer had a legitimate business interest. Over time, courts began to look at these factors as conclusive. InNationwide Advertising Service, Inc. v. Kola, the court of appeals held that an employer's interest in preventing competition was only protectable if the employee learned confidential information from his employment and then tried to use that information for his own benefit. Additionally, an employer's interest in its customers could only be protected if the customer relationship was near-permanent and if the employee would not have had contact with the customers were it not for his employment. After Nationwide, the court of appeals once again created opposing standards to evaluate "near-permanence." Some courts analyzed seven objective factors, while others analyzed the relationship using a "nature of the business" test.
Given this web of tests and factors, enforcement of restrictive covenant agreements became so convoluted that even the court of appeals panel in the Reliable Fire case could not agree on which standard to apply and how. The majority upheld the circuit court's decision that Reliable did not have a legitimate business interest, while the special concurrence agreed with the circuit court's conclusion but disagreed with the reasoning of the majority. The dissent, however, agreed with the reasoning of the special concurrence but would have reversed and remanded based on that reasoning.
A legitimate business interest, however, is only one component of the three-pronged rule of reason, which requires courts to analyze the totality of the circumstances. In the end, each case must rest on its own facts. Further, the importance of any such factor will vary based on the facts and circumstances of each case.
So, although the Illinois Supreme Court has not provided a crystal ball for restrictive covenant agreements, at least you will know what to look for the next time you need a restrictive covenant agreement governed by Illinois law. More importantly, should you need to enforce or defend that agreement in court, you will know what the courts will look for to determine enforceability.


Olivenhain Municipal Water District invites residents with water-efficient gardens to enter the 2019 WaterSmart Landscape Contest. The winning landscape will receive a prize valued at $250. The deadline to apply is April 26, and applications are available at www.landscapecontest.com.
Up to 80 percent of local household water consumption is outdoors. The contest aims to inspire residents to consider a landscape makeover by showcasing the beauty and variety of water-efficient landscapes.
Landscaping for water efficiency has benefits that go beyond reducing water consumption and water bill costs. Water-efficient gardens can improve a home's curb-appeal and they often require less maintenance than their water-thirsty counterparts. Many native plant selections have fire-resistant qualities and provide habitat for local wildlife.
Contest entries will be judged on a variety of criteria such as attractiveness, appropriate plant selection, functionality, and efficient irrigation methods.
In addition to a $250 prize, the 2019 winner of the WaterSmart Landscape Contest will receive recognition at OMWD's June 19 Board of Directors meeting and in OMWD publications.
Several San Diego County water agencies are participating in this annual landscape contest; visit www.landscapecontest.com for additional information and images of previous years' winning landscapes.


text:
HASC Strategic Forces, Readiness Panels Get New Ranking Members
U.S. Rep. Doug Lamborn, Colorado 5th District congresman, is briefed by Col. Steven Behmer, 388th Fighter Wing commander, during a visit to Hill Air Force Base, Utah, July 15, 2020. (U.S. Air Force photo by R. Nial Bradshaw)
By Matthew Beinart |
1 year ago |
Kitchener Says LCSs Will Complement LAW And Marines EABO Mission
Federal Agencies Responding Quickly To Latest Cyber Vulnerability, CISA Says
U.S. Space Force Facing Increased Risk of Launch Problems, DoD IG Says
Rep. Doug Lamborn (R-Colo.) is the new top Republican on the House Armed Services Strategic Forces Subcommittee while Rep. Michael Waltz (R-Fla.) is the new ranking member of the Readiness Subcommittee, the panel's GOP leadership said Monday.
The moves were prompted by Rep. Mike Turner (R-Ohio) becoming the new top GOP lawmaker on the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, with Lamborn replacing Turner's ranking member role on Strategic Forces and Waltz then taking over for Lamborn on Readiness.
U.S. Rep. Doug Lamborn, Colorado 5th District, is briefed by Col. Steven Behmer, 388th Fighter Wing commander, during a visit to Hill Air Force Base, Utah, July 15, 2020. (U.S. Air Force photo by R. Nial Bradshaw)
"Rep. Lamborn has been a strong leader on the Readiness subcommittee. I know he will continue his hard work in support of our national security needs in his new role as the Ranking Member of the subcommittee on Strategic Forces. Rep. Waltz served our nation honorably as a Green Beret and I know he will continue to be a strong advocate for the needs of our military in his new role as the Ranking Member of the subcommittee on Readiness," Rep. Mike Rogers (R-Ala.), the HASC ranking member, said in a statement.
Lamborn will now serve as the minority party's top member on the HASC panel tasked with overseeing national security efforts related to nuclear weapons, missile defense and space programs.
"It is no secret that China is undergoing a rapid, unprecedented nuclear build-up including testing new hypersonic missiles. Russia's nuclear program has undergone significant modernization of all three legs of its triad, including the development of anti-satellite weapons that significantly threaten the space domain. It is vital that our military has the resources and capabilities necessary to keep our country safe, particularly in light of these new and growing threats. I will continue working with my colleagues to ensure our Nation is prepared for any attack, whether on land, water, air, or space," Lamborn said in a statement.
Lamborn represents Colorado's 5th district, which includes Schriever Space Force Base, Peterson Space Force Base, and Cheyenne Mountain Space Force Station, and he has previously said missile defense is "one of my highest priorities."
"While some in Congress are trying to cut funding for missile defense projects, I will continue to support the funding of current missile defense programs and the development of new technology and development. As co-founder of the Missile Defense Caucus, I recognize the importance of a strong missile defense system. Right now, our military has only a limited defense capability in the event of a threat. Self-declared enemies of America already have some missile capability and our eastern seaboard is largely unguarded from ship-launched missiles," Lamborn wrote on his website.
Waltz, who also serves on HASC's Strategic Forces and Intelligence and Special Operations panels, cited a need to focus readiness on challenges posed by China, Russia, North Korea and Iran.
"At such a pivotal time for our military, I am grateful to Ranking Member Rogers for the opportunity to lead the Subcommittee on Readiness to ensure America's warfighters are trained and equipped at superior facilities in order to address the multitude of threats facing our country," Waltz said in a statement.
House Republican leadership appointed Turner as the top GOP member of the Intelligence Committee following Rep. Devin Nunes' (R-Calif.) resignation from Congress last week to become the CEO of former President Donald Trump's new media company (Defense Daily, Jan. 3).
White House, Senate GOP's Relief Package Proposal Includes $11 Billion For Defense Industry's COVID Claims, Press Report Says
HASC Chair Urges Base Renaming To Stay In NDAA, Addresses White House's Proposed Deal
Congress Completes Final Version Of NDAA, Defies Trump's Latest Veto Threat
Final NDAA Adds F-35s, Additional Virginia-Class Sub, As Lawmakers Prepare For Potential Veto Override


text:
Ukraine to Seek Action Against Russia From About 50 Gaming, Cloud, Other Tech Firms
Ukraine plans to urge about 50 additional tech companies, including in gaming, esports and internet infrastructure, to take action against Russia following a slew of earlier requests, a top Ukrainian government tech official told Reuters on Wednesday.
Software giant Oracle responded within three hours on Wednesday to a tweet from Ukraine's Ministry of Digital Transformation calling on it to stop doing business in Russia amid the country's invasion of Ukraine.
Deputy digital minister Alexander Bornyakov showed Oracle's just-posted tweet on his phone during the video interview, which said the company had "already suspended all operations in the Russian Federation". EA Games also on Wednesday said it was removing Russian teams from FIFA soccer games.
"More sanction imposed, faster peace restored," Bornyakov said of his ministry's campaign, wearing a hoodie and sitting in front of Ukrainian flags. He said a couple of times a day, sirens alerted them of air strikes and they moved to bunkers.
Oracle did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Ukraine has already sought support from about 50 companies since Russia's invasion began last week, Bornyakov said. The outreach, which has included tweets from Vice Prime Minister Mykhailo Fedorov calling on Silicon Valley CEOs to take action, has helped bring Ukraine Starlink internet satellites from entrepreneur Elon Musk's SpaceX and new restrictions on Russian state media by Alphabet's YouTube and other social media services.
Bornyakov said among the companies he wants to see take action are Akamai, which provides cybersecurity and content delivery tools to websites.
Akamai said on Tuesday it will stop serving any sanctioned customers but that none of its clients, which it said included Russian airline Aeroflot, were subject to US sanctions imposed on February 22.
The ministry has also called on Google and Apple to shutter their mobile app stores in Russia, but Bornyakov said the companies were more likely to block downloads of select apps.
The appeals to tech firms are part of a broader strategy by Ukraine to isolate Russia and get people to protest the Russian action, which Moscow calls a "special operation."
An "IT army" of volunteers at home and abroad, partly organised by the digital ministry through the messaging app Telegram, has disrupted access to Russian government websites and contacted about 50 million Russian civilians through social media, phone, and texts with information about the invasion, Bornyakov said.
He said these online forces now numbered more than 250,000 people, who were carrying out their own ideas.
"Its like crypto, it's decentralised," he said.
Bornyakov expressed little concern about cyber attacks from Russia, saying their infrastructure was weak.
In recent days, Facebook-owner Meta, Twitter, and YouTube said they had taken down influence operations and hacking efforts targeting Ukraine.
NFT efforts
Ukraine also plans to sell NFTs, or non-fungible tokens, a type of digital asset, to help with funds for the army, Bornyakov said.
"We're going to prepare a lot of cool Ukrainian-style images and 3D models. If you buy this NFT, all the donations are going to go to support the Ukrainian army and citizens," he said.
The government has already raised millions in cryptocurrency donations.
Before Russia's invasion, Bornyakov said the tech ministry had been focused on moving all government services online. He said these efforts meant it was already working with tech companies like Apple and Microsoft on projects such as digital passports.
The ministry was also in communication with venture funds to invest in Ukrainian startups and wanted major tech firms to open artificial intelligence and virtual reality research and development centres in Ukraine, he added.
That has changed with the invasion. "Now, we have to switch to a completely different focus. And that's actually very sad," he said.
aeroflotalphabeteaelon muskFacebookgooglemetaoracle
Twitter Tipped to Be Working on a Podcasts Tab
Tencent to Reduce Transaction Fees on WeChat Payments for SMEs


text:
Open Europe, 7 Tufton Street, London, SW1P 3QN, UK, +44 (0)207 197 2333, info@openeurope.org.uk, http://openeurope.org.uk https://openeurope.org.uk/intelligence/institutions-and-democracy/new-european-commission/
Intelligence > Institutions & Democracy > Briefing > Policy Changer
German voters reject all forms of further Eurozone financial aid
Britain's EU immigration debate: Norway and Switzerland are not the answer
Policy ChangerBriefing Institutions & Democracy
Open Europe's Mandate to the new European Commission
Open Europe's mandate to the new European Commission contains a series of proposals for how the Juncker Commission can radically boost Europe's competitiveness and save EU taxpayers £200 billion in the process. All while ensuring that the EU stays well clear of regulating policy areas that are better handled nationally or locally.
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Briefing Influence
Open Europe proposed appointing a new 'EU Subsidiarity Commissioner', who would be tasked with reviewing both new and existing EU laws to ensure they are proportionate, add value, and could not be better handled at the national or local level.
Incoming European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker did actually appoint former Dutch Foreign Minister Frans Timmermans, whose pro-EU reform credentials are beyond doubt, as First Vice-President in charge of cutting unnecessary EU red tape. It is the first time such a post has is created within the European Commission.
The New European Commission should
Open Europe published an eleven-point mandate for the new European Commission headed by Jean-Claude Juncker. If adopted, the proposals contained in Open Europe's mandate would radically boost Europe's competitiveness, save UK taxpayers £19.3 billion over a seven-year period (and EU taxpayers £200 billion overall), and make sure that the EU keeps well clear of regulating policy areas that are better handled at the national or local level. The proposals include:
Appoint a new 'Subsidiarity Commissioner'
It is high time the EU stopped paying lip service to how important it is that decisions are made as close as possible to the citizens they affect and started enforcing the subsidiarity principle properly. Decisions must be taken nationally where possible, and on the EU-level only where necessary. The best way for the Juncker Commission do so would be to appoint a 'Subsidiarity Commissioner' and put him in charge of reviewing both new and existing EU laws to ensure they are proportionate, add value, and could not be better handled nationally or locally. Any EU laws that do not meet these criteria should be scrapped.
Embrace transparency
All new EU laws should be subject to an 'origin test', whereby the European Commission specifies in which of its departments the proposal was tabled – and which member states or interest groups have been pushing for it. All EU documents should be made accessible to citizens, and the minutes of the meetings of the college of commissioners should be published. The Juncker Commission should also cut off funding for think tanks and politicised NGOs – especially those backing more European integration – as this creates an in-built conflict of interest.
Cut the cost of Brussels
The pay of EU officials should be cut proportionally, ranging from a 5% reduction across the lowest salary bands to a 15% reduction across the upper ones. This would lead to a total saving of £310 million across the EU institutions. Separately, scrapping EU quangos and institutions that duplicate the work of others could save EU taxpayers almost £288 million a year.
End growth-destroying EU spending
Putting an end to the recycling of regional development subsidies among the wealthiest EU member states could save EU taxpayers £123.3 billion over the current EU budget period (2014-2020). This would allow EU structural funds to be better targeted at the genuinely less developed EU member states. Similarly, cutting the EU's farming subsidies – which are paid out to landowners irrespective of what they do with their land – by 30% would save £70.5 billion over the current EU budget period. Conversely, the EU should at least double its spending on research and development.
Get on with services liberalisation
Even though the EU is supposed to allow workers to move freely within its borders, certain service professions remain highly regulated. The EU economy could be boosted by €294 billion (2.3% of EU-wide GDP) if the already agreed Services Directive were fully implemented and a new 'country of origin' principle were added to establish the principle that, if you can trade in one EU country, you can trade in all of them. The New European Commission should table an update to the Services Directive to that effect, and if it cannot be agreed by all 28 member states, those who want to pursue further liberalisation should be free to do so under so-called 'enhanced cooperation' – a quirk in EU law that allows a smaller group of countries to press ahead with closer cooperation in specific policy areas.
If you cannot see the PDF reader below, please click here to access the full report.
Talking of our Briefing
European Commission Vice-President Frans Timmermans yesterday launched a new transparency drive – as recommended by Open Europe in its recent mandate for the new Commission – which obliges Commissioners, members of their cabinets and the heads of the various Commission departments to make public their meetings with lobbyists and other pressure groups.
Die Welt, 20 November 2014
Policy ChangerReport Immigration & Justice
Save EU free movement: Make it fair to keep it free
Policy ChangerBriefing Britain & the EU
What does the EU budget deal mean for the UK and Europe?
Policy ChangerReport Foreign Policy
Maximising the impact of European neighbourhood policy
Briefing Institutions & Democracy
The 2019 European Parliamentary elections and the future of the European project
Open Europe's Mandate to the new European Commission
On the MoneyBriefing Institutions & Democracy
EP2014: How will the surge in anti-establishment parties impact the next European Parliament?


This creative design is ideal to give your home a unique appearance! An original wall sticker from our birds stickers collection perfect for decorating that large empty space at home. This monochrome feather decal is perfect for creating a desirable atmosphere. Tired of having empty walls? This sticker will do the trick! Available in various sizes and 50 different colours.
This high quality vinyl design is available in various sizes and colours. Easy to apply and remove. It leaves no residue upon removal.


David has proudly called Richmond Hill home for the majority of his life. During most of that time he and his family have also made their living in Richmond Hill through their family business. He has always felt that Richmond Hill is a great Town that continues to be a wonderful community to raise a family and call home.
David's commitment to his community has been demonstrated through many volunteer activities in which he engaged beginning well before being elected to Council. Many of these volunteer activities are listed below. He firmly believes the goal of a strong and vibrant community will only be achieved through community involvement. He continues to contribute to the community through his role as councilor as well as his continuing participation in volunteer activities that benefit Richmond Hill.
David was appointed to Council to fill a vacancy in December 2013 and was later elected to his first full term of council in 2014. He continues to strive to make Richmond Hill the best community it can be for his fellow citizens. He firmly believes it is an honour and privilege to serve his community and to work in collaboration with residents to accomplish the community's goals.
Self Employed Photographer – West Photo Inc.
I have been a resident of Richmond Hill for most of my life. I have watched Richmond Hill grow from a community with a relatively small population, with lots of open green space, to a community that is much larger, more culturally diverse, and more urban in flavour. I have always had a deep pride and love for my community, and I am equally proud of our town today. Having said that, we face many challenges in our "growing up", and these challenges have changed over the years.
I chose to locate my home and my family business in Richmond Hill 23 years ago because I felt that it was one of the greatest communities in Ontario in which to work and raise a family. West Photo is our family business and we have served thousands of residents in our community for over 30 years. Through my occupation as a photographer, I have had the pleasure to get to know many fellow Richmond Hill residents. This has given me an excellent perspective regarding what we all value as a community.
Besides being a former teacher, I am a father, husband and volunteer for many organizations (see resume below). I have made a conscious decision to be an actively engaged citizen, and being Ward 4 Councilor is only the latest manifestation of this decision. Whenever I have seen a community need to be filled, I have always been willing to step in and do my part. My volunteer life has shaped my decisions on issues that have come before council. I have been able to see issues from a resident's point of view and also from the point of view of the business community. My commitment to Richmond Hill has been evolving for many years but. my goal has always been to do what I can to make this the best community it can be.
We have invested in our community by having a good variety of recreation centres. These centres provide our citizens with a broad range and choice of recreational activities – from figure skating, hockey, ringette, and bocce, to walking, cycling, and much more.
We have invested in a great theatre, world class sports facilities, walking trails and fitness centres.
Our core services, like fire and emergency services, all the way to waste and recycling collection are delivered in an efficient manner.
We have a great range of natural spaces and parks and our recently completed Parks Plan will guide park development in the future.
We have worked to protect our historic buildings. These buildings are a reflection of our rich history.
We have a recently completed Cultural Plan that will guide us in decisions relating to culture and the arts.
I am proud of our investments, but we are not finished. Needs of the community change over time, and striving for the most cost efficient delivery of services that are important and meaningful to residents is a constant task that councilors must undertake.
People in Richmond Hill deserve excellent municipal services. It is a key role of council to manage our finances so important services can be delivered in the most appropriate, efficient and cost effective manner. It is important to get all of these decisions "right". I am committed to this goal and committed to improving in areas where improvement is needed.
the need for local businesses and citizens to be able to cut the unnecessary red tape in their interactions with the town.
How Council responds to all of these issues will shape Richmond Hill in the years to come so it is crucial that we get these decisions "right". I have provided leadership in this area while working as a team with the rest of council. Our town has faced pressures in the past and will face pressures in the future, but a council that communicates well, engages the citizens, listens to resident's concerns and finds innovative solutions is vitally important. This is what I want to achieve for my community.


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CITMA to Launch
The Chartered Institute of Trade Mark Attorneys (CITMA) will be officially launched on 24th November 2016, marking its transition from the Institute of Trade Mark Attorneys (ITMA). Ordinary members and Fellows of CITMA, who will also be on the Register of Trade Mark Attorneys, will hold the title Chartered Trade Mark Attorney following the launch. ITMA was granted a Royal Charter by the Privy Council in April 2016, paving the way for the launch of CITMA. Kate O'Rourke, President of ITMA, said: "This will be a momentous event for the profession and members of ITMA – soon to be CITMA. The Royal Charter will act as a further seal of quality for the work the profession does and the value it provides to business in the UK and across the globe. It will also enhance the role CITMA plays in the legal sector as the pre-eminent body for trademarks and designs in the UK." The Charter has been scribed on vellum, before being sent to the Crown Office for the Great Seal of the Realm to be applied. The launch will include the unveiling of new visual identity for the organisation


What an awesome Easter! Easter egg decorating, playing, more playing. A Gramma slumber party. Easter egg hunting, Easter basket opening, more Easter basket opening, more Easter egg basket opening, more Easter basket opening. A beautiful walk to the park, a swing on the swings, a meeting with the turtles at the fountain, checking on G's dolphin statue and introducing him to Gramma. Some awesome family time and a tearful Mommy reunion (V was out of town all week for her grandfather's funeral and G really, really missed her). A healthy helping of good wine (for us, not Gwendolyn:) and some great food. It was perfect, just perfect. Gwendolyn had a blast and we all had a blast with her. And it was wonderful.


Discover local Alkmaar. In Alkmaar you can stay in the nicest hotels, apartments and B&B's. We made a listing with all overnight options in our town.
Going camping in North-Holland? How about our campsite Camping Alkmaar, a 'Green' campsite of 2.8 hectares, situated between the town of Alkmaar and the artisan village of Bergen. To the beach is only 10 minutes!
Wondering where to park your car during your stay in Alkmaar?
Click here for all the information about accessibility and parking.


This sentence offers good advice.
The exercise is a good brain exercise and a test of cognitive function.
The exercise is also good for schools and resource material for homeschooling.
Part 1-Form as many words as you can from the 15 letters posted at random.
Part 2 – The 15 letters represents a four-word sentence.