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Mamdouh Shoukri looks back on a decade as York University's president and vice-chancellor
photography by mike ford
Mamdouh Shoukri became York University's seventh president and vice-chancellor on July 1, 2007. He ends his second term as president on June 30. During his time in the role, Shoukri was a member of the Board of Governors, an ex officio member of all board committees, a member of the York University Senate and an ex officio member of all Senate committees. Shoukri came to York from McMaster University, where he had been vice-president research and international affairs since 2001. For his contributions to the flourishing of Ontario's academic institutions, as both an engineer and an administrator, he was named a member of the Order of Canada and the Order of Ontario in 2013, and awarded the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal. He is a Senior Fellow of Massey College, and a Fellow of the Canadian Academy of Engineering and the Canadian Society for Mechanical Engineering. The York University Magazine spoke with President Shoukri recently about how York has evolved during his 10-year tenure, and what the next 10 years might bring for the University.
THE MAGAZINE: Why were you interested in becoming president of York University 10 years ago?
SHOUKRI: I knew that York had a very strong academic and research presence in many areas of knowledge. I believed there was a clear strategic direction for York to become more comprehensive and more research intensive. My sense was that the University's size helped to give it credibility and would enable us to build the remaining parts on solid ground. I knew that York was in a location that was projected to grow and evolve in terms of population, economic activities and so on. I was also drawn to York's commitment to social justice and social values as a progressive university, and this is very much aligned with my own values. So when I considered all these things together, I thought it was a good fit on both a professional and a personal level.
THE MAGAZINE: Would you agree that York is a very different place now than when you arrived 10 years ago?
SHOUKRI: Yes, York is very different now than it was 10 years ago. There's no question that all indicators suggest we are a major player in postsecondary education in Canada and North America. I think there is much wider recognition of York's research strengths, our increased comprehensiveness, increased infrastructure and the resulting improvement in York's academic excellence and student life over the past decade.
We continue to build a strong culture of academic planning – integrated academic planning. This is something I am very proud of, and it is clear that we are far more comprehensive than we were before, with significant growth in engineering, health and life sciences. Early on, creating infrastructure for the life sciences was very important to me. And one can see the results of that in the Life Sciences Building. The establishment of an engineering school is, of course, a very obvious landmark, with the school now housed in the award-winning Bergeron Centre for Engineering Excellence. Many of the services that are available to students have grown significantly as well. I'm particularly excited about the new student centre and major addition to the Schulich School of Business, both now under construction.
I think you need to advocate a vision and you work with your colleagues on bringing that vision to life
The positive results of our research intensification efforts are very evident when you consider the results of the recent CFREF (Canada First Research Excellence Fund) competition. In the past, York had never been included in federal research competitions of that size and stature, where a research program is recognized as the best in Canada and with that support can then become the best in the world. In 2016, our vision research group succeeded in securing one of these grants, and this is due to their strength and also because of the infrastructure we created to support the capacity of the University to bring together an application of that size.
THE MAGAZINE: What role did you have in shaping or enabling all of that?
SHOUKRI: There's no question in my mind that the president creates the vision and sets the tone. I think one of my major contributions was to continue to drive for more integrated academic planning – for the aligning of finances and budgetary expenditures in clear ways to support our academic plans. Doing so helped to shape and enable the vision of becoming a more comprehensive and more research-intensive university.
The other thing I think I was responsible for doing was putting together a leadership team that has done an incredible job over the past 10 years of moving York forward. You can have all the ideas you want, good or bad, but getting them done and done right requires having the right bright and capable people around you, who first buy into your vision and then are willing to do what it takes to make it happen.
THE MAGAZINE: You say a large part of your role is creating a work environment that makes things happen. How did you do that?
SHOUKRI: Well, as I said earlier, I think you need to advocate a vision and you work with your colleagues on bringing that vision to life. I can't say enough about the two most senior vice-presidents we have had here during the last five years or so, who helped me make that happen and accelerate the University's development, Rhonda Lenton and Gary Brewer. In fact, one of the things I knew I wanted to do when I became president was to create a new position – of the provost. I felt strongly that this position was an important element in creating an integrated academic plan for the entire university, giving the chief academic the opportunity and the power and authority to align budgetary expenditures with academic priorities. And I think that worked very well, particularly when you have people in that position of the calibre of Rhonda Lenton and, before her, Patrick Monahan.
THE MAGAZINE: How did you balance all the factors when running the day-to-day life of the University?
SHOUKRI: University presidents for a long time have had to balance so many factors. There are governments, the external community and the media. There are faculty and staff, alumni and trade unions. But, for me, I start from one important point. First of all, why are we here? We are here for the students. We are here – and this is very clear in my mind – to prepare the next generation of world citizens.
Protecting academic freedom and freedom of speech, and trying to create the environment that allows for that, is very important
With the complexity of the world, it is not difficult to forget, but in my mind there are very clear reasons we're here. There are clear principles underlying whatever decisions we need to make in order to balance all of these factors, so that whatever we do is driven by and is protective of these principles. We are here for the students. We are here to create knowledge, preserve knowledge and disseminate knowledge. We have to make sure that we are promoting research, and that we are creating the right environment for discovery and innovation.
The other thing, particularly these days and, I think, throughout the history of universities, is that universities are incredible forums for the exchange of ideas. Therefore, protecting academic freedom and freedom of speech, and trying to create the environment that allows for that, is very important. The other thing to remember is how universities are governed. Universities are created by legislation and governed by two bodies, the Senate and the Board of Governors. Each of these oversight bodies has distinct characteristics, and the administration sits between them. So part of the major balancing act of running the day-to-day life of the University is to make sure that your relationship with those two bodies is balanced. And, as president, you are almost a guardian of the relationship between those bodies – one which is responsible for academic decisions and the other which is responsible for all the other aspects of the University's health, financial and otherwise.
THE MAGAZINE: What about the other groups, like donors and alumni? What part do they play in the University's well-being?
SHOUKRI: Let me start with alumni. I can't tell you how proud our alumni are of their experience at York. And I think that's something we need to recognize more. So, over the years, I have made it a point to reach out to alumni whenever I could. I have met York alumni who are working in every field of human endeavour, and I couldn't be prouder of seeing not only their achievements, but also their sense of loyalty to York.
Donors are also very important to the University. They are important because of the investment they make, but let's be very clear: The investment they make is very important but, perhaps more importantly, donors are people of influence in society who partner with the University and can be its strongest advocates. These are individuals who put a significant amount of their wealth in the University, so they are often your best ambassadors because of their belief and investment in York.
That said, you have to ensure that decisions associated with the investment of those funds do not affect academic freedom. In my time at York, we never raised or accepted donations that did not directly support our academic priorities. And that is why one of the things I did was bring the fundraising function inside the University to involve the deans and others to ensure our fundraising activities were aligned with and supported our strategic objectives.
THE MAGAZINE: Over the past 10 years, do you think there has been a shift in public perceptions about and interest in York University?
SHOUKRI: Yes, I do. There are a number of things that have happened over the past 10 years that I think have contributed to improving York's institutional reputation. First of all, I'm very proud of the development of a culture of integrated planning at York. But how much of that does the world see? The answer is that they don't see it. But they are starting to see the results of that – the CFREF grant I mentioned earlier is one example, but there are others. When 13 universities in Ontario submitted proposals to create a new campus in the province, the government chose York and our Markham Centre campus proposal.
This reflects the incredible credibility and strength of York, and people take note of that. We have also begun to invest in enhancing York's reputation with a strategic marketing and communications program, including advertising, and this is making an impact in terms of changing perceptions of York with prospective students, their parents and the public at large. And when you see that the increase in first-choice applications for universities is just over one per cent in Ontario, but the increase for York in the latest data is six per cent, this tells you there is something very positive happening at York.
We also now have more programs in areas of science, engineering and health, and new campuses in Costa Rica, and Hyderabad, India. And the fact that the subway is coming to York later this year is also resonating very positively with people.
Given the positive trajectory York is on, I don't think you need a crystal ball to see the future
THE MAGAZINE: Where do you think York will be 10 or 20 years from now?
SHOUKRI: Given the positive trajectory York is on, I don't think you need a crystal ball to see the future. I think that in the next decade or so, York will be one of the leading research-intensive, comprehensive universities in the country. It will have stronger community reach and much stronger global reach. I have no doubt about that. I believe York, in 10, 20 years, will continue – because of the incredible strength we have in the humanities, social sciences and the arts, as well as our heritage – to be a university with clear, strong commitment to social innovation and issues of social justice.
We are, as I said earlier, in the right area. There will be growth in demand for postsecondary education in this area. There will be more growth for York's research output, not only in the sciences and health, but also in the humanities and social sciences. I think the arrival of the subway will do many things for us. It will connect us with the centre of the city, and as much as it would allow us to reach out to those living and working there, it would allow them to reach out to us as well. And that will also bring attention of the north. York Region is the natural place for York University's activities, and the subway will help to connect us to the north and the Markham campus.
I also hope that York will never lose the character of being a progressive university, where ideas are debated and where everyone has the right to speak, and a place for continuing debate and discussion. York's historic strength is a commitment to social responsibility, and I hope we will continue to be a beacon for issues like freedom of expression and the rights of minorities and of equity more broadly defined. We need to continue to create an environment that will fight against the high levels of polarization we have been seeing evolving both locally and globally. And I think universities like York are equipped not only to be part of that fight, but to help shape and define it.
THE MAGAZINE: Let's talk about Glendon College. It's an important part of York's character.
SHOUKRI: York has been a strong – through Glendon – advocate of bilingual education. Glendon offers the only university degrees in both official languages in southwestern Ontario. And because of our lobbying efforts and our strong commitment to bilingual and French education, we have managed to secure the funds to build the Centre of Excellence. We are investing in expanding the programming offered by Glendon to include new programs in science, business and psychology, among others. So I see Glendon as a very important, defining characteristic of what York is all about. I can't say enough about the incredible work the current Principal of Glendon, Donald Ipperciel, has been doing. He brought with him a new spirit to move Glendon forward as an integral part of the York community and as our flagship for bilingual education in this region of Ontario. And so, I see a great future for Glendon.
THE MAGAZINE: What were some of the highlights of our fundraising campaigns?
SHOUKRI: During my term as president, there have been some memorable moments when it comes to fundraising. For example, when we wanted to build the new engineering school and reached out to government, it became very clear that government funding would not be enough. So we needed to raise money to ensure the school could be built, and we were very fortunate.
I reached out to Seymour Schulich and because of his own long-term commitment to York, and because he was convinced of the importance of the project, he introduced me to his partner, Pierre Lassonde. And it was Pierre who invested $25 million to help establish our school of engineering.
Another recent example is the $20-million gift from our own graduate Victor Dahdaleh to establish our institute for global health. In both cases, because of our clear academic plans, when we reached out to them, we had projects and opportunities which reflected exactly what they wanted to support and what we needed to do academically.
THE MAGAZINE: What's the most important piece of advice you would give to your successor?
SHOUKRI: I think Rhonda Lenton has the knowledge, the determination and the personality that will allow her to reach out to people and continue to build bridges to take this university to the next level. In fact, I think she will take it far beyond that. So my only advice to her is to stay the course and continue reaching out to people. I look forward to watching her success as she leads the University forward in the coming years.
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After a turbulent journey, two York grads touch down in the Big Apple with their small-town musical


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New policy to help with privacy for transgender students
KATHERINE BAUER February 1, 2017 0
BY KATHERINE BAUER
Students will soon be able to change the first name that appears on a number of Drake platforms, from their email address to their student ID card.
The student preferred name policy is expected to be implemented in the coming weeks, says Director of Student Engagement, Equity and Inclusion Tony Tyler. The policy has been a long time coming.
"When I came here (over five years ago), it was already being discussed as a theme that should be happening," Tyler said. "There have been discussions here about it for years."
The new policy, which ended its public review period last week, will allow all students to submit the first name they would like to appear on non-legal documents and other platforms. This includes ID cards, residence hall rosters, Blackboard, MyDUSIS, class and advisor lists and email addresses. While any student can take advantage of it, the policy takes a step to make Drake more inclusive for students in the LGBT community, more specifically transgender students.
"When you hear that name you were given at birth, a lot of people can really feel alienated or feel really uncomfortable correcting their name in front of the class," Rainbow Union President Ann Radtke said.
"My name feels neutral enough that I don't feel the need to change it," said Paxton Gillespie, One Voice President. Gillespie is a transgender woman, identifying as a woman but assigned a male identity at birth. "But for a lot of people (for example) who identify as men but have traditionally feminine birth names, by someone calling you by that birth name, it can have all of the gendered stereotypes about that name attached to you. You're not being seen for who you are and how you identify, which… causes a lot of anxiety."
Radkte said that for those being called by their legal name instead of the name they now identify with, it can lead to a lack of understanding and inclusion in the classroom. The student preferred name policy avoids this by showing teachers only the preferred name on the roster.
"(A legal name is) very alienating because it's everywhere," Radkte said. "Do people really accept you for who you are?"
Difference in gender identity and names can lead to gender dysphoria for some transgender people.
"For me, dysphoria is the feeling that you're not being perceived in the way that you want to be perceived," Gillespie said. "I wanted to be perceived as a woman, and a lot of times people don't perceive me as a woman or don't treat me the way they would treat a woman. So that causes a lot of anxiety within me because I know I'm a woman. When someone says this name that has a gender that you don't identify with at all… it brings all that pain back up."
Tyler said the idea of a preferred name policy floated around campus even before he began working at the university.
However, the project really started moving forward after the 2014 campus pride index assessment, a national assessment tool administered by the national organization Campus Pride. The index gauged LGBT inclusion on college campuses. Drake received two stars out of five for LGBT inclusion.
Tyler then met with students to address how to move forward to improve. About a year ago, a working group came together with members from IT and student records to
finally make the student preferred name a reality.
"(We) said okay, let's do this," Tyler said. "Let's really do this. What would it take to make this happen? We've been working on this really diligently since last January through the spring semester."
Tyler presented the policy drafts and ideas to members of Drake's LGBT support group Rainbow Union and LGBT advocacy group One Voice for feedback and improvement.
"There were a lot of people who were excited," Radtke said. "I even had people who aren't LGBT involved (say) they were excited for it to because it can be easier for them as well."
The final, reassuring push for the project came in May of last year. A "dear colleague" letter arrived at Drake from the U.S. Departments of Justice and Education. The letter clarified that transgender students fall under Title IX protection.
"Essentially the Title IX policy outlines all the ways in which schools must protect trans
students," Gillepsie said. "If those guidelines are violated, it would be a violation of Title IX, just as if a sexual assault case were mishandled or if the school were discriminating against disabled or other marginalized groups."
Drake's Title IX coordinator Katie Overberg explained that lacking a student preferred name policy did not put Drake in danger of violating Title IX.
Iowa code already includes transgender people under the Civil Rights Act of 1965. Drake's own nondiscrimination statement already includes students of all gender identities.
Before the student preferred name policy, Drake was accommodating students who sought out a name change on a case-by-case basis. The new policy, Overberg explained, simply makes the name-change an easy, recognized option for students.
"I do know multiple people who would benefit from this," Radtke said. "I know that, even though if I don't know them, I know there are other people on campus who would take advantage of this, even if it is to explore their gender identity."
Tyler said that 1,300 students currently have a different preferred name in the system from when they came to Drake. Of those, 900 preferred names are "significantly different" from the legal name.
Tyler said that this is not an indication of all transgender students who may take advantage of the policy. International students who take on a more common 'American' name are included in the figure.
Campus Pride reports on its website that nearly 160 colleges have a similar policy or option in place already. Tyler said that if students submit a "goofy" name, it could appear odd to potential employers and new professors.
"If they want to put something sort of goofy into the system… you can put that in there," Tyler said. "There are some natural ramifications."
While many steps are still needed to make Drake more inclusive to the LGBT community, Tyler said that he is looking to reassess the campus pride index.
"It's hopefully something we could do this semester is to reevaluate that score we got a few years ago," Tyler said. "I think we've moved up some."
Emails are being sent out to campus to further explain the policy and how it will work. Students can expect to find the preferred name submission in MyDUSIS under personal information once it has been implemented. There they will find the form to submit a name and will be able to check if they already have a preferred name.
If a preferred name is entered, it will automatically be updated on all applicable platforms once the policy goes into place.
Students can change their name at any time but should expect a few days for the name to update across all areas.
In addition, emails sent to the student's address before the change will still be delivered. For example, emails sent to Anthony.Tyler@d rake.edu will still be delivered to Tony.Tyler@drake.edu if Tyler decided to change his name to Anthony.
KATHERINE BAUER
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Lieutenant Commander Joseph Thompson
Name Joseph Martin Thompson
Position Chief Security Officer
Rank Lieutenant Commander
Physical Description Joseph has an athletic build; nothing over-the-top, but enough to be well above average in fitness. Though he now wears his hair long, he keeps it tied back cleanly and neatly. He has the tattoo of a wolf head on his left arm near the shoulder.
Father Ken Thompson (b. 25Oct30, d. 04Jan2378)
Mother Judy Sendik Thompson (b. 12Nov30, d. 04Jan2378)
Spouse Karen Fisher Thompson (b. 07Mar56, m. 07Jul84, d.14Sep86)
Children Lucy (b. 04May85, d. 14Sep86); Alice (expected Apr87, d. 14Sep86)
General Overview In casual conversation, Thompson tends to be friendly and outgoing. By contrast, while on duty Thompson is efficient and focused on the task at hand. He has a sense of sadness about him, but for others' sake he does his best to hide it under his more dominant friendliness. He is very respectful of Marines, especially those he has served with.
Strengths & Weaknesses Thompson is experienced both in his skills and his leadership ability. He has learned survival and combat from the Marines and excels in both of them. He is loyal to his superiors and to his subordinates, and he does his best to be friendly and respectful towards everyone. As a scholar, he was above the average student – though his abilities were hampered by procrastination and lack of interest – and even now he still tends to learn new things quickly. He has an attention to detail, and his sniper training allows him to accurately judge weather variations, angles and trajectory, and other such aspects. He also has a keen sense for indications and motives behind terrorism and piracy, having both training and experience in combatting both.
Unfortunately, Thompson still has a certain rebellious streak left over from when he was young. If he sees something that he believes is wrong, he will do whatever he can to correct it. While this does not always mean disobeying orders, he has been known to bend them in the past. Because of his time as a Sniper during the Dominion War, Thompson can slip back into his tendency to be a "lone wolf" at times, which can cause problems among teams. Also, though he does his best to suppress it, he still feels great grief over the loss of his wife and daughters.
Ambitions & Goals Thompson has no major ambitions at this point. Some part of him would like closure for what happened to his family, and another part wants to just move on and leave the pain behind. He has considered returning to the Marines, but for now is merely focused on doing his duty as best he can so that no one else gets hurt because of him.
Hobbies & Interests Thompson enjoys a good game of baseball, whether spectating or playing (though he much prefers playing). He also likes to swim and do various other activities to stay in shape. Though he is not a great reader, when he does read it tends towards military history or military fiction. He doesn't care for any music in particular, but he doesn't mind it being played. Thompson has a fascination with the Ancient West, especially weapons of that era. He also has a preference for projectile snipers.
Languages Federation Standard, Romulan, Reman, Sojourn/Vinarian trade languages
Family Ken and Judy Thompson – Joseph had a positive relationship with his parents. Aside from some early clashes with his rebellious streak, they supported him in most of his endeavors. Unfortunately, both of Joseph's parents were killed in an accident in 2378. Although he does miss them, he has learned to move on.
Karen Thompson – Joseph loved his wife dearly, and he remains at least partially consumed by guilt and grief over her loss. He locks those feelings away to do his job, and over the years the ache has finally started to fade.
Lucy and Alice – The loss of Joseph's daughters filled him with the same guilt and grief as the loss of Karen, but it was harder with Lucy and Alice. Joseph blames himself for not protecting them and thus taking away a promising future from them.
Romantic Relationships For years after the loss of his wife and children, Joseph could not even think about the possibility of starting a new relationship; the pain was too constant and too new. As the pain has slowly faded, though, Joseph has begun to realized he cannot commit to a journey of loneliness through the rest of his life.
Friendships Lt. Col. Drake Lexon – Drake was Joseph's CO in Marine Unit 116 and over their years working together they developed a strong sense of mutual respect. Drake was a very different kind of Marine from most others that Joseph encountered, and became a mentor to Joesph. They worked together again in the Eighth Fleet and in Operation Sunrise, and maintain good contact with each other despite Joseph's reassignment to the Eleventh Fleet.
VAdm Iluvar Ibanya – Joseph first met Iluvar in 2387 when the latter served as Joseph's CO. Initially their relationship was of respectful officers, but Joseph came to know Iluvar personally as a man of discerning wisdom. Iluvar began to rely on Joseph's judgement, just as Joseph relied on Iluvar's guidance and wisdom. They occasionally reach out to each other in spite of Joseph's new posting a quadrant away.
Petty Officer Sharon Cole – Joseph has a strong working relationship with Sharon, due to their shared background as marines. They enjoy training together, though both adhere to the policies against fraternization between enlisted and commissioned personnel.
Personal History Joseph Thompson's early life was somewhat unremarkable. He was born to Judy and Ken Thompson in a medium-sized city on Earth. Joseph attended public school until the middle of his 7th Grade year, when his parents moved him to a strict private school to curb his "rebellious streak". He returned to public school for his Junior and Senior years of high school and graduated in 2372.
Thompson's time in the private school had given him an appreciation for order, precision, and efficiency, but he still had a fighting spirit. Combining these elements, he joined the Marine Corps right after high school.
Starfleet Training After excelling throughout his six months of basic training in the Starfleet Marine Corps, Thompson was assigned as a Private First Class to Marine Unit 116, a company-sized unit assigned to the USS Wolfhound and tasked with anti-pirate operations throughout the quadrant.
Near the end of 2373, Thompson applied and was accepted to Scout Sniper school. With his attention to detail and a newfound store of patience, Thompson continued to excel through his five weeks of Scout Sniper School. By the time he took his final tests, he received full points for all of them.
In 2376 Thompson again returned to training, this time to attend the Marine Officer Academy for a commission. Though well above average, Thompson often received less-than-satisfactory grades due to his tendency towards procrastination and a desire for "fun". Unlike sniper training, the Academy did not immediately capture Thompson's attention. It wasn't until midway through his second year that he finally buckled down and became determined to finish.
Career History Thompson began his career in 2372 as a rifleman in Marine Unit 116, a company-sized unit assigned to the USS Wolfhound and tasked with anti-pirate operations throughout the quadrant. He served for a year until his prowess with marksmanship earned him a spot at Scout Sniper School. After his training was complete, he returned to active duty in Unit 116. Serving as a covert sniper throughout the Dominion War, Thompson's skill and achievements earned him the rank of corporal.
In October of 2375, a severe phaser wound to Thompson's back earned him a Purple Heart but forced him to endure two months of recovery due to nerve damage. After his recovery, Thompson returned again to Unit 116 and served as a sniper for seven additional months. His skills as a sniper were well known throughout the company, but his superiors also saw certain leadership qualities in him and recommended that he try for a commission.
Once Thompson had received his commission, he was promoted to 2nd Lieutenant and assigned to lead Unit 116's sniper squad. By December of 2379 he was promoted to 1st Lieutenant and given command of a platoon within the company. While in this position, Thompson formed close bonds of trust both with his subordinates and his superior. For the next two years, this trust continued to build and Thompson was given more responsibility until he held the coveted position of Platoon A CO.
In March of 2382, Thompson volunteered for a covert mission involving only a single squad's worth of Marines. As the leader of Fireteam Delta, Thompson was able to return to his sniper origins and provide cover for the rest of the squad. When unexpected complications caused a mission failure, Thompson covered the squad's retreat. As the survivors prepared for evac, Thompson learned that their Company CO had been taken prisoner and – at great personal risk – Thompson remained behind to find and rescue his superior. It was during this time that Thompson received a projectile shot to the chest, which narrowly missed his heart. The Company CO, who had some medic training, managed to keep Thompson alive until a second evac could meet them at the extraction point. Though Thompson was again forced to endure months of recovery, the incident had formed an unbreakable bond between Thompson and his commander. When Thompson returned to the unit in May of 2382, it was to find that his recently-departed commander had recommended Thompson as his replacement. It wasn't until November of the following year, however, that Thompson was granted a rank promotion to fit his position.
In early 2384, Thompson met Karen while on a short LOA. The two fell in love, and Thompson finished off his final term of active service with the Marines before requesting a transfer so he could spend more time with Karen. They were married in July of 2384, and after another month of extended leave Thompson completed his transfer to the Galaxy-class USS Draco. With his Marine background, he received the naval rank of Lieutenant and served as Assistant Chief of Security/Tactical. Since the Draco was a Galaxy, Karen was able to live onboard with Thompson, and they even had a daughter in May of 2385.
The USS Draco was attacked and boarded in September of 2386, and though Thompson should have been at his duty station he had traded shifts to spend some time with his wife. When the Red Alert came, he hurried to get ready and rushed to help organize the security teams and defend the key parts of the ship. Though he performed his duties admirably even when the CS/TO fell, he didn't realize until it was too late that the pirates were taking hostages as they retreated. By the time the crew had fought off the pirates, there were 43 missing civilians – including Thompson's family.
By the time the Draco received assistance from the nearest vessel, the pirates were long gone. Thompson wanted to go after them, but the pirates were known to leave no hostages alive and everyone had already counted them as lost. Finally, Thompson gave up and accepted his promotion to Lieutenant Commander for services rendered to the ship, but he asked for another transfer; he didn't want to stay on a ship that he had spent so much time with his wife on. His transfer was granted, and he became the CS/TO for the USS Pandora.
On the Pandora, Thompson quickly gained respect for his CO, transferring with him to the USS Yorktown in 2388. He remained with the Yorktown when it was transferred to Operation Sunrise. While he continued to serve as the CS/TO and Second Officer of the Yorktown, Thompson was often consulted by VAdm Iluvar's security chief because of his background as a sniper and counter-terrorist.
In 2389 a request came from the Eleventh Fleet to utilize Thompson's skill and experience in counter-terrorism to analyze potential threats against the Federation due to the increase in tensions with the Sojourners. Thompson was transferred to the Eleventh Fleet and began the three-month journey across the Federation. Unfortunately, he was still in transit when the very thing he was being sent to help prevent occurred: Starbase 332 was bombed. Thompson was immediately updated with new orders to aid in the long-term investigation of the bombing once he arrived.
After the initial investigations were complete, Thompson was given the opportunity to accept a promotion to commander and continue working with the investigation teams. He politely declined and instead accepted another request, a transfer to the USS Thames in 2390, where he served as a Strategic Operations Officer doubling as Security/Tactical when needed.
Service Record 9/2359-6/2365: Elementary School – Public
9/2365-2/2367: Middle School – Public
[Medical Entry: 7/2366 – Broken arm, fall from tree; fully mended]
2/2367-6/2368: Middle School – Private
9/2368-6/2370: High School – Private
9/2370-6/2372: High School – Public
6/2372-12/2372: Starfleet Marine Basic
1/2373-12/2373: Marine Unit 116, Fleet Alpha – Private First Class, Rifleman
1/2374-2/2374: Marine Scout Sniper School
4/2374-10/2375: Dominion War – Lance Corporal, Sniper
[Medical Entry: 5/2374 – Tattoo of Wolf Head]
[Medical Entry: 10/2375 – Phaser shot to lower left back, mended with scar, 2 months recovery]
1/2376-7/2376: Marine Unit 116, Fleet Alpha – Corporal, Sniper
Fall 2376-Spring 2379: Starfleet Marine Academy – Officer Commission
6/2379-12/2379: Marine Unit 116, Fleet Alpha – Marine 2nd LT, Sniper Squad Leader
12/2379-11/2380: Marine Unit 116, Fleet Alpha – Marine 1st LT, Platoon C CO
11/2380-7/2381: Marine Unit 116, Fleet Alpha – Marine 1st LT, Platoon B CO
7/2381-3/2382: Marine Unit 116, Fleet Alpha – Marine 1st LT, Platoon A CO
[Medical Entry: 3/2382 – Projectile shot to chest, mended with small scar, 2 months recovery]
5/2382-6/2384: Marine Unit 116, Fleet Alpha – Marine Captain, Company CO
TRANSFER TO EIGHTH "HORIZON" FLEET
TRANSFER TO STARFLEET
9/2384-10/2386: USS Draco – ACS/TO, Navy Lieutenant
10/2386-5/2388: USS Pandora – CS/TO, Navy Lt. Commander
5/2388-2/2389: USS Yorktown – CS/TO, Navy Lt. Commander
TRANSFER TO ELEVENTH "PEGASUS" FLEET
05/2389-04/2390: Eleventh Fleet – Investigations Officer, Navy Lt Commander
04/2390-Present: USS Thames – StratOps Officer, Navy Lt Commander


Before she donned the trademark wrist bands and Themysciran battle armor of Wonder Woman, Gal Gadot almost made the cut to play another recent female cinematic icon, Furiosa in Mad Max: Fury Road. Instead, it was Charlize Theron who nabbed the role and whose critically acclaimed performance as Furiosa gave her a second-wind career boost.
Alas, this was one of the rejections that almost spurred Gadot to quit the Hollywood business altogether, as she confessed a few months ago, before she landed the coveted role of Wonder Woman and stole the scenes in her debut as the female superhero in Batman v. Superman: Dawn of Justice. The rest, as they say it, is history.
Gadot revealed in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter's "Awards Chatter" Podcast that she was the runner-up to play Furiosa, the oil-rig driving warrior of Mad Max: Fury Road who stole the scenes from Tom Hardy's Mad Max in the acclaimed, Oscar-nominated action film.
And because Hollywood is a small world after all, connections keep turning up. Patty Jenkins, who directed Theron's Oscar-winning turn in Monster, signed on to helm Wonder Woman's solo feature and Theron appeared in this year's Fate of the Furious, the latest chapter in the franchise that helped Gadot break into Hollywood. And this is before you remember that Gadot was forced to turn down the the role of Faora, the lead henchwoman in Man of Steel, because she was pregnant. Better DCEU roles come to those who wait, it seems.
So it all worked out in the end, and now Gadot is the face of DC Film's optimistic pivot away from its initial dark and gritty angle, gaining a larger role in the upcoming Justice League and presumably a bigger paycheck for Wonder Woman 2 after Wonder Woman swept away the competition at the box office this summer.


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September 27, 2016 – White Lake State Park, New Hampshire
A Magical History Tour through Upstate New York
I said goodbye to Jake in the morning. He was off to teach a class at Syracuse University and I was headed to Maine. On my way out of Syracuse I stopped at Wegman's grocery store in the nearby town of Manlius to get some food – and for old time's sake. Wegman's is only a few miles from my brother Don's former house and was where I always shopped whenever I visited him, before he moved to Connecticut several years ago, so I figured if I couldn't stop and see my brother here in Syracuse, at least I could stop at his grocery store!
Above: From Jamesville I continued east down the Mohawk River Valley, then turned north and visited the Saratoga battlefield. Afterwards I continued north up the Hudson River Valley and camped that night at Crown Point State Park.
I'd been debating where to go from this point. My general plan was to get to northern Maine to visit the three extreme geographic compass points there – the northeasternmost point in the U.S., as well as the north-northeasternmost and east-northeasternmost points. And the sooner the better, because it was late September and from my previous road-trips through northern New England, I knew that the cold weather, and even snow, can descend on that area anytime now.
I didn't have a specific plan though, so I pondered my options. I could visit Cooperstown and the Baseball Hall of Fame, which is a terrific place, but I'd been there before, back in 1995. I decided instead to take a brief historic tour of upstate New York and visit the Saratoga Battlefield, a few hours to the east, then continue on to Fort Ticonderoga and Crown Point.
The rolling hills of upstate New York were beautiful. It was a few weeks before peak fall colors, which is usually around mid-October, and the trees were just beginning to turn a bit golden. I followed Interstate 90 for a few hours east along the Mohawk River valley and the Erie Canal, then pulled into Saratoga National Historical Park around 2 p.m. The last time I'd visited Saratoga was about 30 years ago, also in the fall, but I barely remember it.
As you know if you've been reading my website, I'm a big history buff; in fact, history and geography are my two favorite topics. I'd been reading about Revolutionary War sites like Saratoga ever since I was seven years old, when my brother Don gave me a book on the American Revolution, which was one of my favorite Christmas presents of all time. He followed that up 10 years later by giving me a huge atlas of Revolutionary War battles, which was an even better Christmas present. So please indulge me in this entry as I explain the historic sites I visited, the first being Saratoga.
A Little Historical Background...
But first, let me provide some context for those who fell asleep during their High School history class. There were two main wars in North America in the 1700s: the French and Indian War, and the Revolutionary War. The first was about territorial conflict and the second was about independence. Many people get them mixed up, but let me briefly explain them.
The French and Indian War, called the "Seven Year's War" in Europe, lasted from 1754-1763 (wait a minute, that's nine years). It pitted the British against the French in various theaters around the world, including here in the British colonies of North America. During the French and Indian War, the French and the Indians (most tribes here, at least) fought against the British army and the American colonists. Yep, the young George Washington once fought with the British army. The British won that conflict and the French ceded to them all of the French territory east of the Mississippi River, plus Canada. Even though Canada is now part of the British commonwealth, it was originally settled by France in the 1600s, which is why there are two official languages in Canada.
After the French and Indian War, in 1764, the British started taxing the American colonists to help cover the British cost of protecting the colonists. Well, that idea didn't go over too well among the Americans, so they boycotted British imports (the Boston Tea Party) and attacked the tax collectors, so the British brought in their army to protect the poor tax guys. But the British army's presence in America caused further conflicts with the colonists, like the Boston Massacre in 1770. Those conflicts finally led to the Revolutionary War, which was fought from 1775-1783 and which, of course, the Americans won.
If the British had won the Revolutionary War, Americans would all be talking funny and drinking tea. Well, some Americans in the south do talk funny and drink tea (well, iced tea), but that's another story. And if the French had won the French and Indian War, Americans might all be speaking French now, oui?
From Saratoga to Crown Point
That's my brief history lesson for today, so now back to my travels. Like I say, my first stop today was at Saratoga, about an hour north of Albany. This was the site of probably the most important battle of the American Revolution. In 1777, a few years into the Revolutionary War, a large British army marched south from Montreal heading towards Albany and New York City, in hopes of cutting off New England from the rest of the American colonies. The British made slow progress, though, as they headed down the Hudson River valley and were met by an American army here on the hills overlooking the Hudson, near a place called Saratoga.
After an initial battle, in September 1777, the British dug in and waited for reinforcements from New York, which never came. A second battle ensued a few weeks later, the Americans were victorious and the British surrendered. One of the American heroes of the battle was the temperamental-but-brilliant general, Benedict Arnold, one of the most daring, brazen and accomplished leaders of the Continental Army who, a few years later and after feeling snubbed by his American commanders, turned traitor. But the Battle of Saratoga was crucial because afterwards, the French government decided to ally with the American rebels and the French participation was critical to the eventual American success. For that reason, many historians consider Saratoga to be the turning point of the American Revolution.
I spent a half-hour in the National Park Visitor Center and watched a 20-minute film describing the conflict, then I got in my truck and toured the battlefield. It was a pleasant fall afternoon, about 60 degrees, and I had a nice drive around the park, stopping at all the sites.
I left Saratoga around 3:30 p.m. and continued north up the Hudson River valley, passing by Lake George. Remember the scene in the movie "Last of the Mohicans" where the British fort was under siege during the French and Indian War? That was Fort William Henry, a few miles from here in the town of Lake George. Even if the movie isn't a true portrayal of James Fenimore Cooper's book, as my friend Jake had astutely pointed out the previous evening, it's still one of my favorite movies.
Late in the afternoon I reached Fort Ticonderoga, a large star-shaped fort built in 1755 by the French at a strategic location on the south end of Lake Champlain, at the start of the French and Indian War – the French army's answer to the nearby British's Fort William Henry. I've been to a lot of forts around the country, but I think Ticonderoga is probably the best-preserved and most impressive fort in America. It has also caused me a lot of frustration.
You see, back in 1984, during a road trip around America when I was in college, I stopped at Fort Ticonderoga one afternoon but couldn't afford the $10 admission fee, so I just took some pictures from the outside. Then in 1995, during another road trip around America, I stopped again at Ticonderoga hoping to see the inside. This time I could afford the admission (now $15) but it was late in the day and the fort had just closed, and I had to get to my friend Julie's place in Vermont by nightfall so I couldn't stick around another day. So during one visit I had the time to see the fort but didn't have the money, and the next visit I had the money to see the fort but didn't have the time.
And wouldn't you know it, once again I arrived just minutes after the fort closed. In fact, a guy who was dressed up in colonial garb was moving a big "Closed" sign across the road just as I pulled up, so I was dejected. I told him my story and he said, "Come back tomorrow! It opens at 9:30." Maybe, we'll see...
I left Ticonderoga and drove a few miles north and pulled into Crown Point State Park which, like Ticonderoga, is the site of a historic fort from the 1700s that overlooks Lake Champlain. I found a campsite and cooked up dinner. The park has a large, rustic campground but there were only about five other campers there that night, so I had it pretty much to myself. Tonight was the first presidential debate between Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump. I normally don't watch much streamed video on my cell phone, since I only have 6 GB of data per month, but I was so curious that tonight I made an exception. And I'm glad I did, because along with being a history and geography buff, I'm a political junkie, as well.
Me and Jake, a colleague from my grad school days at Wisconsin.
A few hours later I arrived at Saratoga battlefield in upstate New York. This was one of the most important American victories during the Revolutionary War.
The Visitor Center at Saratoga. I watched an interesting movie here describing the battle.
Then I took a tour of the battlefield. In the summer and fall of 1777, the British army had traveled down the Hudson River heading towards Albany (going left to right), but they met the American forces here at Saratoga. For several weeks in September/October, the two sides dug in and fought.
There were actually two battles here, a few weeks apart, in the fall of 1777: Freeman's Farm and Bemis Heights. The Americans triumphed, then the French entered the war on the side of the Americans. For that reason, many historians consider Saratoga to be the major turning point in the war.
British cannon.
British cannon overlooking the Hudson River.
After Saratoga, I continued winding my way north. But darn, I got to historic Fort Ticonderoga five minutes after it closed.
The Third Time's the Charm
The campground at Crown Point State Park was quiet; there were only a few folks camping here. In the morning after breakfast, I walked to the top of an impressive stone cylindrical building which, as I learned, had once been a lighthouse and was now a memorial to the French explorer, Samuel Champlain. The view of Lake Champlain from the top was astounding on this beautiful, sunny morning. Lake Champlain, extending from Canada south for nearly a hundred miles into central New York, was a critical transportation corridor back in the 1700s and, seeing how it narrowed here to just a few hundred yards wide, I quickly understood why Crown Point was such a strategic site.
Above: In the morning I explored two historic forts along Lake Champlain: Crown Point and Ticonderoga. Then I drove into Vermont and visited Burlington and Montpelier, then continued east, pulling into White Lake State Park well after sunset.
The French thought so, too, and in the 1730s they built a fort a short distance away, which I explored. The British kicked out the French in 1759 during the French and Indian war and built a much larger fort here, which lasted until a fire wiped it out in 1773. The strategic importance of both Crown Point and Fort Ticonderoga, 15 miles south of here, had dwindled by this time, because the British/French frontier had moved farther west, so after the fire, Crown Point faded into obscurity. Today Crown Point is preserved as a New York State Park and they've done a wonderful job of explaining its history. In fact, I was so impressed that I took a panorama photo.
Around 11 a.m. I left New York and crossed the magnificent Lake Champlain bridge into Vermont, but then I started thinking about Fort Ticonderoga. Though I'd tried to see it three times in the last 32 years, I'd never been inside Fort Ticonderoga, and I wasn't sure when I'd get back to this area again to see it. Therefore I turned my truck around and headed back over the bridge into New York, then drove 15 miles south to the fort. I was in a hurry to get up to Maine, but heck, I figured I could spare a couple hours.
I paid the admission fee (now $21) and spent about 90 minutes exploring Fort Ticonderoga, imagining what it must've been like, first for the French in the 1730s, then the British in the 1760s, then ultimately the Americans, when Ethan Allen captured the fort from the British in 1775 during the early days of the Revolutionary War. The fort is pretty impressive and there were some living history demonstrations going on, but because it was late in the season, it was fairly quiet and there weren't too many visitors. I would imagine it's a real zoo in the summer months.
By the way, if you like historic forts, you need to visit Louisbourg in Nova Scotia. Louisbourg is like "Williamsburg North" and is an amazing reconstruction of the French fort and village, which the British conquered in 1755 during the French and Indian War. Based on a friend's recommendation, I visited Louisbourg back in 1995 and was blown away. I was at Louisbourg for several hours one afternoon but could've spent many days there. I'm a big history buff (can't you tell?) and Louisbourg is, hands down, one of the most impressive historical sites I've ever visited. I enjoyed Ticonderoga too, however, and was glad to finally see it – the third time (or maybe fourth) was the charm.
It was now early in the afternoon and I got back in the truck and headed north, again crossing over the Lake Champlain bridge into Vermont. An hour later I reached Burlington and drove around the downtown area, hoping to park somewhere so I could get out and see Lake Champlain (or at least Bernie Sanders). But parking in Burlington during the weekdays is pretty tight, as I discovered, and I saw no trace of Bernie, so I continued through town, then got on the Interstate and headed east, reaching Montpelier around 3 p.m. Back in 1995 I spent a few days in Montpelier visiting Julie, a former BLM colleague who was living here then, but I hadn't been back since. Montpelier is not just the capital of Vermont, though; it's the smallest capital city in the U.S., with a population of just 7,671. So even though it's a capital city, Montpelier has a very organic, small-town and laid-back atmosphere. I liked it a lot.
I pressed on into New Hampshire late in the afternoon, following U.S. Highway 302 through an impressive area called Crawford Notch, with granite cliffs rising several hundred feet on either side. By the way, a "notch" in New England is what they call a "gap" in the southeast – like Cumberland Gap – or a "valley" in the west – like Death Valley. Geographic colloquialisms around America have always fascinated me. Is it a "soda" or a "pop"? A license "plate" or a "tag"? It depends on where you live.
Anyway, well after dark I pulled into White Lake State Park, south of Conway, New Hampshire, and by the light of my headlights I found a campsite in the mostly-deserted campground. I heated up a quick dinner and had a soda (or was it a pop?) and went straight to bed, because I knew it would be a long drive tomorrow.
Two Forts (but no Bernie): New York, Vermont and New Hampshire
I camped the previous night at Crown Point State Park on Lake Champlain, and was one of only a handful of campers in the spacious campground.
This magnificent structure, at Crown Point State Park, was first a lighthouse (built in 1858), then it was converted to a memorial to Samuel Champlain in 1912. Today you can walk up to the top and enjoy a glorious view.
So I did. And the view of Lake Champlain really is glorious.
Crown Point is the site of a key French fort built in 1731. Then the British built an even larger fort here in 1759.
From the original French fort, you can almost reach out and touch the Lake Champlain bridge. You can see why Crown Point was such a strategic site, because Lake Champlain narrows here to just a few hundred yards wide. It's a great place to put a few cannon, huh?
The Lake Champlain bridge.
The British built the largest earthen fort in North America here at Crown Point in 1759 during the French and Indian war. It burned down in 1773 from an accidental fire, so it didn't play a role in the Revolutionary War.
But the walls remain.
After visiting Crown Point, I headed a few miles south to visit Fort Ticonderoga. The third time was the charm and I finally got to see it.
The French built this fort in 1755 at the start of the French and Indian War, calling it Fort Carillon.
But the British captured the fort in 1759, during the French and Indian war, and renamed it Fort Ticonderoga.
Fort Ticonderoga was built at an important strategic location on the south end of Lake Champlain, where the lake narrows to just a few hundred yards. It's also near the entrance to Lake George, which provided access to the Hudson River and on to New York City.
There are a lot of interesting "living history" exhibits in the fort. Here a cobbler is repairing a shoe.
A British mortar at the fort.
I enjoyed finally, finally seeing Ticonderoga after trying two other times in the past 30 years.
O.K., it's on to Vermont!
Here's my restaurant near Burlington.
Burlington, Vermont's largest city. I was looking for Bernie Sanders but didn't see him.
Vermont's capital is Montpelier which, by the way, is the smallest capital city in the United States (pop. 7,671).
I walked and drove around Montpelier for a half-hour, my first visit here since my long, cross-country trip in 1995 when my friend Julie was living here.
On Interstate 93 near the only city in the world named St. Johnsbury.
Crossing into New Hampshire on Interstate 93.
Mt. Washington, the highest peak in the northeast. It's also the windiest place. And the coldest. Three extreme sites for the price of one!
My truck turned over 20,000 miles and wasn't even six months old yet!
Previous article: September 25, 2016 – Jamesville, New York Prev Next article: September 28, 2016 – Aroostook State Park, Maine Next


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Larry Greenfield is the executive minister of the American Baptist Churches of Metro Chicago, a regional judicatory of the American Baptist Churches U.S.A, and the theologian-in-residence for the Community Renewal Society, a progressive, faith-based organization in Chicago that works to eliminate race and class barriers and advocates for social and economic justice. He received his Ph.D. from the University of Chicago Divinity School, where he subsequently taught and served as dean of students. Later he served as president of Colgate Rochester Divinity School in Rochester, New York. Larry is now Executive Director of the Parliament.
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You Are Here: Home → News → MoFAIC organises 'Multaqa' for ambassadors and heads of accredited missions to UAE
MoFAIC organises 'Multaqa' for ambassadors and heads of accredited missions to UAE
WAM January 22, 2018
ABU DHABI, 22nd January, 2018 (WAM) — Ambassadors and heads of accredited missions to the UAE were briefed today about 2019 Special Olympics World Games in Abu Dhabi, by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, MoFAIC, at a "Multaqa".
The ministry holds "Multaqa" (Arabic for "forum" or "meet-up") periodically to serve as a platform for diplomatic dialogue, enhance communication and promote networking accredited diplomats. It will also provide insight on the latest strategic events, activities and plans the UAE has in store and shed light on various sectors at the heart of the UAE's foreign agenda, in line with the ministry's strategy.
Reem bint Ibrahim Al Hashimy, Minister of State for International Cooperation and Director-General of Expo 2020 Dubai Bureau, is one of the engaged leaders supporting the 2019 Special Olympics World Games.
In her opening remarks, Al Hashimy highlighted the importance of the Special Olympics, as the chosen topic for the inaugural forum, emphasising the long-lasting social legacy and integration of people of determination. "As many of you know, the UAE will host the Special Olympics World Games in Abu Dhabi in 2019. This event will be held for the first time in the MENA region and we are very honoured to be hosting this global event that celebrates humanity's most treasured asset: its unwavering spirit," she said.
"The Special Olympics is a global movement that unleashes the human spirit through the transformative power and joy of sports. Using sports as a catalyst, the Special Olympics fights inactivity, injustice, intolerance and furthermore, demonstrates inclusion, tolerance and acceptance," Al Hashimy added.
"The Olympics is a remarkable opportunity to showcase the UAE's commitment to greater inclusion and happiness. Like the Expo 2020, these global platforms can serve a higher purpose, and can truly demonstrate our nation's commitment to advance human progress and human dignity. Our vision is to inspire all people touched by these platforms with a sense of pride in how the UAE is leading the region to an era of greater inclusion, tolerance and happiness," she continued.
Mohammed Abdullah Al Junaibi, Chairman of the Higher Committee for the Special Olympics World Games Abu Dhabi 2019, in turn, thanked the attendees, and pointed out that the UAE is always keen to achieve solidarity and inclusiveness among all members of society and to redouble international efforts to improve the quality of life of people with intellectual disabilities, in line with the firm stance of the founding father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.
Al Junaibi explained that "integration among all social categories is one of the key foundations of the UAE vision and is activated through many initiatives launched by the UAE, including regional and world games for the Special Olympics that are to be held in Abu Dhabi under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces."
"Abu Dhabi has become an essential destination for hosting international events and activities. The World Games will emphasise the country's leadership in organising and contributing to the formation of a key catalyst for change not only in Abu Dhabi and the UAE, but also in the region and around the world. "
For his part, Peter Wheeler, Chief Executive Officer of the Special Olympics World Games, shared the committee's agenda and its initiatives that aim to encourage positive and direct contribution to instill hope into the lives of thousands of people and families by changing the societal perceptions related to the abilities and capacities of the people of determination, who can excel in many aspects of life through sports and promote communication and integration in the community.
"Abu Dhabi will gather more than 1,200 athletes from 33 countries in hosting the Special Olympics Regional Games and nearly 7,000 athletes during the World Olympic Games. We are delighted that strategic partners have joined forces to organise these two events and invite them to join the Special Olympics mission of tolerance, solidarity and support for good actions".
The second session of the Multaqa featured an overview of the UAE economy covering commercial cooperation and investment, building a knowledge-based economy by developing skills and research and development.
Mohammed Sharaf, Assistant Minister for Economic and Trade Affairs at the MoFAIC, gave an overview of the UAE's journey to a knowledge-based economy, through the promotion of innovation, research and development in line with the UAE National Agenda 2021.
He reiterated that "strengthening the regulatory framework for key sectors and encouraging sectors with high added value will improve the country's business environment and increase its attractiveness to foreign investment."
"Stemming out of that agenda, 'MOFAIC Strategy 2017-2021' is to ensure collaboration and co-existence in pursuit of stability and prosperity in the region and around the world, hand-in-hand with our partners", he explained.
Sharaf added that over the past years and with the engagement of UAE embassies abroad, the UAE actively targeted 48 countries to increase bilateral economic ties – with a total investment value exceeding US$2.3 billion. "Events like today's Multaqa will ensure the continuation of our bilateral relations and serve as platform to connect the business community with our foreign ambassadors. This marks the first business breakfast and there will be many more successful ones in the upcoming future."
Abdullah Al Saleh, Under-Secretary of Foreign Trade and Industry at the Ministry of Economy, said, "In line with the UAE vision 2021, the National Agenda focuses on UAE becoming an economic, touristic and commercial capital, a knowledge-based economy, promoting innovation and research and development."
"The country's innovation strategy will focus on fostering innovation in seven main sectors: renewable energy, transport, education, health, technology, water and space," he added.
Al Saleh gave the ambassadors and mission heads greater insight into the UAE's business environment, investment environment and FDI environment, as well as outward direct investment trends and sovereign wealth funds.
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Permalink This is a question thats been done quite a lot on the site but as always organisations grow and evolve so answers given on here five years ago by me amongst others may be less cut and dried today.
The ICB has been doing quite a lot to try and get themselves noticed by an industry that has traditionally ignored their existance.
None of those organisations are involved anymore but just stand back as proud parents whilst the AAT grows into a respected institution in it's own right. Because of its heritage many accountants started out doing AAT before moving on to higher qualifications.
That may not seem a huge plus point but remember that those accountants who may now be sub contracting work know the quality of AAT where they may not be so clear on the quality of people of other organisations. A sales point of the ICB and AAT has been in attempting to attract qualified accountants who find it too difficult to meet the criteria of being awarded a practicing certificate from their own bodies so look for a flag of convenience.
In the case of the ICB there is something of an historic stigma attached but thats only amongst accountants, not the general public who in general could not tell the difference between a certified bookkeeper and a chartered accountant when they are looking for representation and instead look at price which of course an ICB members overheads are a lot lower than a member of one of the larger bodies.
I think that the historic issues with the ICB where it was regarded initially as the quick and easy option have now largely been put to bed.
When it was started by a manager formely of the IAB it needed to get it's membership numbers up in a crowded market place dominated by the AAT You dont get to build numbers by making a qualification difficult to attain. It initially appealed to the newly redundant and stay at home mums who needed to get some income quickly, but those days I feel are now long since behind it as it seeks to make itself a qualification thats an AAT alternative and people today who want to gain their letters are put through gruelling tests to rival AAT.
It should be noted that to offer a full service to micro entities which is the way the profession has gone means that non of the organisations can actually be considered bookkeeping but are instead entry level accountancy qualifications.
Bookkeeping stops at trial balance, everything after that is accountancy. And there ICB falls down in that whilst I do not see any serious differentiation up to trial balance when it comes to accountancy then bodies need to be teaching professional ethics and placing more emphasis on the idiosyncracies of taxation.
So, just to emphasise, I'm not saying that the ICB is a bad qualification. What I am saying is that it is not as well recognised by accountants as it, and certainly many of the people who hold it, deserve. It's not to my mind as well rounded as the AAT qualification and lacks emphasis on ethics which is a core part of all of the accountancy qualifications.
No doubt in the future they will develop those weaker areas of their syllabus around tax and ethics but it takes a lot longer for mindsets to change than professional body sylabuses.
Overall, if I were you I would stick with the AAT which is well rounded, well respected and keeps the door open for permanent employment if ever you decided to go down that path in the future although I know thats not on the horizon at the moment.
Not really answered your question but hopefully widened your thought processes. Answers are intended as outline only the advice of a qualified professional with access to all relevant information should be sought before acting on any response given.The mission of Imperial Valley College is to foster excellence in education that challenges students of every background to develop their intellect, character, and abilities; to assist students in achieving their educational and career goals; and to be responsive to the greater community.
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A threat caused by a close family relation / friend of the accountant being a key member of the client staff or a supplier or customer of the Accountant's employer. Described as an 'educator, examiner, regulator, and thought leader,' ICAS is a professional body for more than 20, members who have all achieved the internationally recognised chartered accountant qualification.
Currently, there are 3, students actively involved with ICAS and many of these are based outside of the UK. Review of Sandwich Master Essay.
Internal Control And Accounting Systems An Overview of the Sales Ledger and Credit Control Sandwich Master Ltd Word Count: I confirm that this is my own work unaided for ICAS and that no additional support has been provided - Review of Sandwich Master Essay introduction.
I have read and understood the terms and conditions. The AAT Level 3 Diploma for Accounting Technicians is the perfect course to build on the knowledge acquired on the AAT Level 2 Certificate for Accounting. The Level 3 Diploma course is the next step to gaining an AAT Accounting qualification via the Diploma route.
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Every 2019 combined rates mentioned above are the results of Illinois state rate (6.25%). There is no county sale tax for Mounds, Illinois. There is no city sale tax for Mounds. There is no special rate for Mounds.
The Mounds's tax rate may change depending of the type of purchase.


(2017) EVO ROOMS: Please read.
Has the EVO Stream info for IJ2 been posted?
UPDATED: INJUSTICE 2 Confirmed for EVO 2017! Mortal Kombat XL MUST BE VOTED IN via DONATIONS!
RedBullEsports to Stream EVO 2017 Reveal Show tonight at 9 P.M. EST!
PAY TO PLAY MKX AT EVO? ARE YOU F***ING KIDDING ME?
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text:
const gulp = require('gulp');
const useTsConfig = require('../../index.js');

const tsConfig = './tsconfig.json';

gulp.task('pre-build', () => {
  return gulp.src(tsConfig)
    .pipe(useTsConfig.clean());
});

gulp.task('build', gulp.series(['pre-build'], () => {
  return gulp.src(tsConfig)
    .pipe(useTsConfig.build());
}));

gulp.task('default', gulp.series(['build']));

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


Flight Safety International Inc can be found at 13231 Champion Forest Dr #309 . The following is offered: Continuing Education . In Houston there are 111 other Continuing Education. An overview can be found here.


text:
3 families displaced following fire in York
Fire broke out at three-story building on South Duke Street
Ed Weinstock
News 8 at Noon
A fire marshal is investigating the cause of a fire in York.Video: Watch Ed Weinstock's reportIt started around midnight Monday on the first floor of a home on the 200 block of South Duke Street.Firefighters say only one man was there at the time. He was able to escape after being alerted by a smoke alarm.No injuries are reported.The Red Cross is helping nine people, but firefighters say as many as 13 people live in the building.
YORK, Pa. —
A fire marshal is investigating the cause of a fire in York.
Video: Watch Ed Weinstock's report
It started around midnight Monday on the first floor of a home on the 200 block of South Duke Street.
Firefighters say only one man was there at the time. He was able to escape after being alerted by a smoke alarm.
No injuries are reported.
The Red Cross is helping nine people, but firefighters say as many as 13 people live in the building.


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Volition: THQ's Pornstar Focus On Saints Row Was In Bad Taste
Posted on August 5, 2013, Ian Miles Cheong Volition: THQ's Pornstar Focus On Saints Row Was In Bad Taste
THQ's emphasis on pornstars for marketing the Saints Row franchise didn't really go along with what its developers at Volition had going for the game, argues Volition.
In an interview with Edge, Saints Row 4 associate producer Kate Nelson says that THQ's enlisting of pornstars to promote the previous games in the series struck her and others at the company as inappropriate.
"I did not always love how much THQ put an emphasis on porn stars," Nelson said "In Saints Row 2 and Saints Row 3 there was an emphasis on the penthouse girls, and earlier Tera Patrick. I think it's important in marketing games to make sure that the essence of the game is what's being marketed, and I think the porn star angle didn't really fit in with what Saints Row is at heart, which is a parody. We like to poke fun.
"You can be an important female character – you don't have to have a D cup either," she continued. "You can be large woman, a small woman – you can be blue. You can be who you want to be in the game and you have powerful female characters written into the narrative."
You can be anything you want in Saints Row 4, including a large blue-skinned woman with small breasts who sounds like Nolan North. The game allows you to play whatever character you want to.
"I think our game actually does represent women in a positive way," Nelson added. "But the press will focus on, oh hey, there are strippers, or there's a dildo bat – it's unfortunate from my perspective that that doesn't come through. Because I hear women talk on panels and they're like 'there are no people that look like me in games'.
"Well, actually in my game [the main character] can look like you as our customization system is so extensive. We don't get that across in our marketing or in the press because it's difficult – we only have 30 seconds to explain."
Nelson added that the "appointment" of Tera Patrick as a "special producer" on Saints Row 2 wasn't well received by employees at the company. "Saying that someone who had no industry experience was in a role that is sexualised as a producer of our project, or saying the penthouse girls are our QA staff – I just…I can see the humour in that angle of promotion but for me that's the line where it gets into reality.
"Saints Row in a lots of ways has empowered minorities and empowered women, which I think is important to get across."


Once upon a time, almost everyone wore business suits to job interviews.
Your appearance not only shows that you're taking the opportunity seriously, that you are eager to make a good impression, and that you'd fit in nicely within the corporate culture; it can also communicate that you have respect for the interviewer, says Mark Strong, a life, career and executive coach based in New York.
Another reason a job candidate might have difficulty determining what's appropriate: The days of the "interview uniform" are over, Williams says. As Teach mentioned earlier, a suit isn't always the right thing to wear anymore.
Invest in a "power outfit." Depending on the industry you're in and the companies you're interviewing for, buy a few outfits that are appropriate, professional, and, most importantly, comfortable. If possible, purchase a few outfits because you might be asked to return for a second or third interview.
"It's worth spending the extra money on clothing that looks great, and you'll get tons of use out of them," Williams says.
Invest in comfortable, work-appropriate shoes. Don't neglect your feet. You may have a beautiful, well-tailor outfit on—but if your shoes are tattered or uncomfortable, your overall appearance will suffer. You don't have to spend a fortune; but keep in mind that you will likely get a lot of use out of these shoes when you start your new job.
Women can wear low, conservative, comfortable heals or "power flats." Men should invest in a pair of loafers and lace-up dress shoes. In general, you want to avoid shoes that expose your toes.
Have your interview outfits tailored and dry cleaned. "It doesn't hurt to tailor your work wardrobe to fit even better," Williams says. You'll feel better if your clothing fits properly—and you'll appear more confident. "Spending $10 at the dry cleaners can dramatically change your outfit as well," she says.
Test-drive your interview outfit. You probably tried on the clothing before you bought it, but when you get home, put the outfit on and spend a few minutes in it. Make sure you're comfortable sitting and walking. "Practice your interview answers while you wear your interview outfit," Strong suggests.
Do not wear perfume or fragrances. "There are a people with allergies and have problems with scents, and you don't want your scent to be the first thing that enters the room," Ferguson Hodges says.
Amanda Sanders, a celebrity image and branding expert, says to wear neutral colored nail polish and avoid too much make up.
Be aware of your posture and body language. Good posture and a solid handshake is important, Sanders says. "Always make eye contact and smile."
Your body language is part of your overall appearance, so it's imperative that you pay close attention to it.
Pay attention to your grooming as much as your outfit, Strong says. "Your hair should be neat, and fingernails should be clean," Ferguson Hodges adds. You want to look nicely kempt from head to toe.


DIY wedding invitations from Elle and Grace. Elle & Grace is an online studio with its design base in london, England. We design affordable paper luxuries that include printable wedding invitations, rsvps, save the date cards, birth announcements, greeting cards, personal stationery and general everyday paper goods.


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Pimpinella hispida är en flockblommig växtart som beskrevs av Jean Loiseleur-Deslongchamps. Pimpinella hispida ingår i släktet bockrötter, och familjen flockblommiga växter. Inga underarter finns listade i Catalogue of Life.

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hispida

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


Nomadic societies exist all over the globe, moving from place to place to find fresh pasture for their herds, ply a trade, or simply seek out new locales with the seasons. There are an estimated 30–40 million nomads in the world today, but that's nothing compared to what it once was. The modern way of life is threatening nomadic culture, and many are striving to preserve their heritage. That's the reason for the World Nomad Games, an event held in Kyrgyzstan.
The September event had its first edition in 2014, and saw its second installment two years later. At the 2016 event, athletes from 40 world countries converged to compete in sports such as horseback archery, dog and eagle hunting, and mas-wrestling, where rivals attempt to win control of a small stick. The fiercest competition, according to The Guardian, was kok-boru, a form of polo where two teams battle over control of a goat carcass. There was even a kind of fashion show, where men and women displayed traditional dress on a nomad catwalk. Learn more about nomadic cultures in the videos below.
Discover the strange sports that take place at the event.
Find out how photographers are seeking to preserve these ancient cultures.
Hear the story of three nomadic communities.


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The Best InstallersLearn more about Fences
The Best Fence Installers in Knoxville, Tennessee
Fencing is a popular option to improve the property's aesthetics and security features. These property markers are often made out of wood, vinyl, chain link, and PVC. Fences are available for do-it-yourself installation but professional services are available for faster and more effective procedures. This list features Knoxville's best fence installation experts. To come up with this list, our editorial team has gathered multiple firms and assessed each based on a set of criteria covering each firm's work history, capacity, and overall quality of work.
Factory-To-You Fence
4684 Holston Dr., Knoxville, TN 37914
Factory-To-You Fence is a second-generation family enterprise offering top-quality fencing options at an agreeable price. The firm has served East Tennessee and the Tri-Cities area with clear-cut operations and dependable customer service. Core to the firm's business operations is its strong emphasis on fair pricing that matches if not lower than the market price. The firm also has a credit financing option that gives better access for Tennessee residents.
The firm offers vinyl, wood, and chain-link fences along with gates, decks, and arbors. Factory-To-You is fluent in design trends from the optional finial adornments, cap selections, to optional ring adornments.
Rio Grande Fence
1410 Lebanon Pike, Nashville, TN 37210
Second and third-generation contractors Michael and Derek Smith carry the torch their family passed unto them. The Smiths have served the Mid-South for over six decades, utilizing time-tested practices and processes. Rio Grande Fence was established by Lee Roy Smith as a response to the growing demands of the industry.
Lee Roy quickly made a name by appropriately serving his customers and building lasting relationships within the community. Presently, Lee Roy's son, Michael, and grandson, Derek, take care of the family enterprise. Under their leadership, the firm garnered the American Fence Association's National Fence Contractor of the Year Award five times since 2013 and other major industry awards from reputable organizations.
The firm has worked with local and nationwide businesses, organizations, and even sports teams. Rio Grande provided the fencing for Preston Taylor Ministries, Nissan Stadium of the Tennessee Titans, Ajax Turner Company, and Lipscomb University.
Tim's Fencing and Decking
1928 Callahan Dr., Knoxville, TN 37912
Tim's Fencing and Decking provides straightforward solutions to families and businesses in the Knoxville area. Tim's Fencing work offers installation, repair, custom fabricating, commercial fencing, and maintenance services all over the region with friendly staff and speedy scheduling. Originally established in the Pacific Northwest, the firm gathered experience serving homes in the region before relocating to Knoxville. Tim's Fencing is family-run and operated, which gave it a closely-knit appeal to the local community. Tim's has a strong number of positive reviews, which often commend the firm's top-notch work and budget-conscious pricing. The firm has a thorough selection of wood, chain link, aluminum, PVC, and custom fencing.
©2020 BuildZoom & Master Halco. All rights reserved.


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Home Local News Royal family slammed for 'eye-watering' ticket prices to visit Queen's grave
Royal family slammed for 'eye-watering' ticket prices to visit Queen's grave
The royal family is under fire amid news that it will cost mourners almost $30 per person to visit Queen Elizabeth II's grave.
Her Majesty was laid to rest last week at the King George VI Memorial Chapel, located on the grounds of Windsor Castle about an hour's drive from London.
The castle is usually open to tourists five days per week — but it was temporarily closed to the public following the queen's death on Sept. 8.
On Thursday, however, the Royal Collection Trust announced that the castle's grounds had reopened to visitors — but their usual ticket prices would not be waived for visitors wanting to pay their respects to the late monarch.
The Trust — which is one of the five departments of the royal household and is responsible for managing the public openings of official royal residences — charges £26.50 ($29.50) for an adult ticket on Sunday through Thursday and £28.50 ($31.75) for an adult ticket on a Saturday.
Prices are cheaper for those under the age of 18, but it hasn't stopped some from slamming the royals over the "eye-watering" charge.
The royal family is under fire amid news that it will cost mourners almost $30 to visit Queen Elizabeth II's grave.
The high ticket prices have not kept crowds at bay — with long lines of people outside Windsor Castle following its reopening on Thursday.
"I don't believe it," one mourner raged on Twitter. "Apparently it will cost £26.50 … to visit the Queen's grave. Who on earth thought is was right to gouge the public in this way when they showed such grief at her death? Money grabbing for a very rich lot of people."
Another claimed the price was exorbitant when compared to other historical sites, writing: "For the price they charge to visit the late Queen's grave, you can get an all inclusive ticket to Versailles, Château, Garden & Temporary Art Shows and have enough change left to drink a coffee!"
Meanwhile, a separate critic claimed it was insensitive to charge British mourners such a high amount of money to pay their respects, especially as the country grapples with a "cost of living crisis."
"This could literally be someone's weekly budget to feed their family!" they cried.
The queen is buried alongside her husband and her parents, with visitors able to see a new ledger stone that marks her tomb.
VIA REUTERS
However, the high ticket prices have not kept crowds at bay, with long lines of mourners seen outside Windsor Castle following its reopening on Thursday.
According to the Royal Collection Trust, income from a ticket "contributes to the care and conservation of the Royal Collection, and the promotion of access and enjoyment through exhibitions, publications, loans and educational activities."


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Healthy Community Means a Healthy Workforce for this Tanzanian Town
By Mkama Mwijarubi
Former program officer, IntraHealth International
In February 2014, IntraHealth International's Tanzania HIV Prevention Project teamed up with the Alliance Cotton Ginnery in rural Kasoli in Bariadi district, Tanzania, to provide male circumcision services in the district.
Partnering with local businesses is just one way our project helps prevent HIV in Tanzanian communities. (Just one month later, for example, we worked with an association of motorbike taxi drivers in Kahama to create demand for male circumcision there.)
In Bariadi, the cotton ginnery provided space in their complex for IntraHealth to set up outreach services and gave their staff permission to leave work to be circumcised, without docking their pay.
Bariadi district has an HIV prevalence of 6.9%, higher than the national average of 5.1%.
In a rural setting such as Kasoli, where people depend on agriculture for their livelihoods, the ginnery is a respected and rare employment opportunity.
The ginnery played a key role in mobilizing locals to come for the services, and the turnout reflects the goodwill that this company has built in the community.
Bariadi district has an HIV prevalence of 6.9%, higher than the national average of 5.1%. During the four-week outreach, 1,926 men received comprehensive male circumcision services that reduced their chances of contracting HIV by 60%.
We talked with the general manager of the ginnery, Mr. Boaz Ogola Abiero, about the campaign:
Question: Why did you work with IntraHealth to extend male circumcision in Kasoli?
Answer: It was an opportunity to demonstrate our good citizenship in our community. We face many community development challenges, one of which is health. Therefore we are open to working closely with organizations that share a similar vision.
When we learned about the high demand and positive impact of male circumcision last year, we hoped to partner with an organization like IntraHealth.
Our company contributed space in the ginnery complex as a service center for male circumcision so clients did not have to walk five kilometers to the nearest health facility. We also offered a vehicle, fuel, and public address system to announce the availability of the service in Kasoli and surrounding villages.
Q: Was this the first time you partnered with an organization for a health-related program?
A: We had worked with the Mwanza-based Muslim Foundation to organize a general health camp in Kasoli. Community members with different health issues came for general checkups and medication, as well as for male circumcision. However, during that outreach we underestimated the demand. We only had resources for a two-day health camp, and although 400 men registered for circumcision services, fewer than 50 were circumcised!
Q: How did working with IntraHealth help you to meet your goal?
A: The messages IntraHealth uses around male circumcision are very strong because they include information about the advantages of reducing the transmission of HIV. In our previous efforts with the health camp, our appeal was not that strong, since male circumcision was just one element of all of the other health issues we addressed.
Despite a relatively big turnout for male circumcision during the medical camp last year, we lacked supplies and service providers. The success of this year's campaign is very fulfilling for us.
Having a great relationship with the community is important for our business.
Q: How did the campaign benefit your company?
A: The company benefited in two ways. First, 30 staff members from our ginnery were circumcised. This is nearly 80% of the factory's male employees. A healthy workforce is important for both our profitability and our staff's enjoyment of their lives. Those who went for circumcision were granted a 14-day paid leave for recovery, funded by the ginnery.
Second, by partnering with IntraHealth, even on a small scale, we have contributed to our major goal of improving the welfare of the community where we conduct our business. When our community views us as a business that invests in their welfare, they will be willing to work with us for a long time.
Having a great relationship with the community is important for our business. Our staff members know how the people relate to our company. This relationship helped increase the number of participants in the outreach and added to our positive reputation.
Q: What future plans do you have for male circumcision?
A: If you plan to work in Kasoli or nearby villages, we are always ready to work with you! We plan to organize more medical camps so that we engage the community in taking care of their health, not only through medical circumcision but in other aspects of health as well.
IntraHealth's Tanzania HIV Prevention Project is funded by the US Centers for Disease Control.
Hundreds of Motorcycle Taxi Drivers Gather to Learn Road Safety and HIV Prevention in Tanzania
Manubi Stephano, an employee at the Alliance Cotton Ginnery, at his workplace in Kasoli, Bariadi, Tanzania. Photo by Mkama Mwijarubi.
During the four-week outreach, 1,926 men opted for comprehensive male circumcision services to reduce their chances of contracting HIV. That includes nearly 80% of the factory's male employees. Photo by Mkama Mwijarubi.
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