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All posts tagged Drug Policy
How Will Cuba Update its Drug Policy?
By Isabella Bellezza-Smull*
A "Say no to drugs" sign spotted in Santiago de Cuba. / tgraham / Flickr / Creative Commons
Cuba – unlike neighbors long wracked by the drug trade and its violence – has one of the lowest drug-use and homicide rates in the Western Hemisphere, but national drug experts are debating how to adapt the country's strategy to new challenges. The debate is taking place amid positive evaluations by the Cuban government, the U.S. State Department, and others that indicate rates of illicit drug consumption, production, and retail in Cuba have been negligible, while reliable anecdotal information suggests a rise in drug use and transit as the country opens its doors to foreign trade, travel, and allows emergence of a domestic private sector.
Cuba credits its success to a comprehensive approach that includes confrontation, collaboration, prevention, and treatment. In conversation with U.S. drug enforcement counterparts, Cubans emphasize tough-on-drugs policies, including sanctions for drug possession, production, and trafficking, and to the effectiveness of the anti-drug police force, interdiction operations, and some 40 bilateral counternarcotics agreements. To other partners, they stress multi-sector, humanistic prevention and treatment efforts directed by the Comisión Nacional de Drogas (CND). The CND coordinates national health, education, justice, and community sectors to prevent and delay the initiation of drug use – and to treat it as a public health issue when it does occur. Even though drug possession is a crime, the diversion of illicit drug users from the criminal justice system to health clinics has been an important element of national strategy.
Despite its successes, Cuba faces a number of challenges with respect to illicit drugs. If Cuba continues to increase tourism and diversify its foreign trade, the possibility of drugs – and recreational drug cultures – reaching Cuban shores will increase, putting further stress on the country's "just-say-no" approach. The emergence of a class of Cuban entrepreneurs with increased disposable income could create a new appetite for drugs, and the possible exacerbation of economic inequality could make the illicit-drug market attractive, whether as producers or retailers. A well-established context of informal markets and back-channel networks already exists that could be repurposed to distribute drugs.
Cuba's robust public health, educational, and community-based institutions – the basis of protective factors related to drug abuse – afford the country an opportunity to adopt a more progressive approach to drug control. The CND remains publicly committed to prohibition and fighting illicit drugs, but there are also signs that alternative strategies are being considered. Cuba's leading research center for drug treatment, the Centro para el Desarrollo Académico sobre Drogodependencias (CEDRO), is beginning to explore harm-reduction measures as an alternative to abstinence-based approaches – acknowledging, as its coordinator has said, that "not everyone who comes to consultation is willing to assume abstinence." Decriminalization of drug-use and possession appears extremely unlikely, even though studies in other countries show it reduces high-risk behaviors that increase the spread of infectious diseases and death from overdose, the diversion of law enforcement resources from serious criminality, and exploding prison populations. More likely, Cuba's debate probably will touch on adopting harm-reduction measures to treat and prevent problematic drug use, and investing in alternatives to incarceration for nonviolent, low-level participants in illicit drug markets involved in production, transport, and sale.
* Isabella Bellezza-Smull is Latin America coordinator for Global Exchange. This article is adapted from a study – Will Cuba Update its Drug Policy for the Twenty First Century? – that she prepared for the Igarapé Institute in Rio de Janeiro.
by clalsstaff on December 7, 2017 • Permalink
Posted in Cuba, Uncategorized
Tagged Cuba, Drug Consumption, Drug Policy, Drug Trafficking, Illicit Drugs, State Department, U.S. Drug Policy, U.S.-Cuba Relations, War on Drugs
Posted by clalsstaff on December 7, 2017
https://aulablog.net/2017/12/07/how-will-cuba-update-its-drug-policy/
Peru's "New" Drug Strategy: Déjà Vu?
By Paul Gootenberg*
"Peru's national drug control agency just released a four-year counter-drug strategy in April that warns of the urgency to reverse the ongoing surge in cocaine production." / Editora Perú / Creative Commons
Peru, with a capacity to produce about 350-450 tons of cocaine a year, has been approaching Colombia as the world's top exporter since around 2011, but its new drug strategy is not likely to reverse that trend. Most Peruvian coca now comes from the Valle de los Ríos Apurímac, Ene y Mantaro (VRAEM), and most cocaine flows towards Brazil not the United States. Peru's national drug control agency, DEVIDA (National Commission for Development and Life Without Drugs), just released a four-year counter-drug strategy in April that warns – again – of the urgency to reverse the ongoing surge in cocaine production but offers few compelling or new ideas on what to do. The report notes the "high risk for Peru that our country will repeat the cases of Colombia and Mexico" in violence, corruption, and other costs of a massive illicit narcotics trade. The strategy has some serious flaws, however.
Although the report touts itself as a "Plan Integral," military spending and eradication far outstrip "alternative development." Coca "supply control" is the core of the program, though development efforts (mainly with cacao) are offered. Peru's plan is mechanically sequenced – Pacification, Eradication, Services, and Development – and its rigid militaristic strategy draws criticism. The latter seems basically directly against VRAEM peasants. In 2014, a similar plan was announced to eradicate "50 percent" of the VRAEM coca in just one year, but nothing occurred because of the risky security environment.
The sources of some key data are unclear. The report cites UN information but apparently without taking into account the substantial flow of cocaleros and cocaine traffickers deeper into Amazonia, near the Brazilian and Colombian borders. It generally treats the VRAEM, Peru's main producing area, as an isolated containable "world apart" – poised for national "recuperation." Security threats in the area, including guerrillas, actually made holding off eradication since 2014 a wise move – it would have pushed cocaleros into the arms of guerrillas – but the new report fails to consider any blowback from its plan.
It glosses over the shortcomings of Peru's security services to carry out what remains a heavily security-based strategy. It makes the startling admission that only 1.5-2.0 percent of VRAEM cocaine and 3-8 percent of cocaine nationally is seized – one of the lowest interdiction rates in the world. (Colombia's improved intelligence enables it to grab about half of cocaine in-country, and even weak Bolivia does better policing illicit cocaine.) The ease of smuggling in Peru is directly related to the open corruptibility of Peru's police, military, and politicians. But except for money laundering, DEVIDA's report barely addresses the corruption problem.
Peru, unlike Colombia and Bolivia, has never questioned the UN/U.S. international drug regime, nor does this report. But Peru should expect little overseas eradication aid in the Trump era, raising big doubts about the sustainability of a long-term program.
As Colombians learned after decades of drug war against coca growers, including Plan Colombia, forced eradication is one of the most inefficient and futile ways to combat drugs. Studies by Colombian economist Daniel Mejía show that the marginal cost of eliminating a kilo of cocaine from markets by aerial spraying is a whopping $247,000 – far more than a kilo's price on the street. Eradication also provokes violent conflict and propels growers to new areas, and Peru has many tropical basins ripe for raising coca. Effective intelligence to hit labs and intermediary layers of cocaine trades pays bigger dividends. So does enlisting cocalero unions on the side of the state – to self-police as in Bolivia (now with the region's least illicit cocaine) and Colombia (where the 2017 peace accord now recognizes cocalero rights). Peru marginalizes cocaleros, precluding the sort of socio-political strategy needed for success. All in all, DEVIDA's strategy makes it interesting to see whose plan will produce the best results by 2021 – Peru's, Colombia's, or Bolivia's?
* Paul Gootenberg is Chair of the Department of History at Stony Brook University and author of Andean Cocaine: The Making of a Global Drug (University of North Carolina Press, 2008).
Tagged Bolivia, Coca, Cocaine, Cocaleros, Colombia, Drug Policy, Drug Trafficking, Drug War, Illicit Drugs, Peru, U.S. Drug Policy
https://aulablog.net/2017/06/13/perus-new-drug-strategy-deja-vu/
Elections in Uruguay: A Bellwether for the Latin American Left?
By Aaron T. Bell
Photo credit: Frente Amplio (FA) / Foter / CC BY-NC-SA
Uruguay's elections on October 26 – once seen as a sure bet for the ruling Frente Amplio's presidential candidate, former president Tabaré Vázquez (2005-2010) – have become a tight race, perhaps signaling challenges for other left-leaning Latin American governments as well. The FA's slight slip in the polls since the beginning of 2014 has been matched by sustained growth by the Partido Nacional, led by Luis Lacalle Pou, the son of a former president. While Vázquez still holds a ten-point lead, he's well below the absolute majority needed to avoid a run-off election, whose numbers look even bleaker for the ruling party. In February, Lacalle Pou was running twenty-five points behind Vázquez in a head-to-head matchup, but the latest polls now show him only two points back. Lacalle Pou will need the support of his party's long-time rival, the Colorado Party, to win a second round against the FA, but Colorado candidate Pedro Bordaberry has thus far refused to concede the first round to the PN despite trailing them by 17 points. Nonetheless, Vázquez was defeated by just such a second-round alliance in 1999. Complicating things for him, polling strongly suggests that FA could lose control of both houses of the national legislature this fall.
The Lacalle Pou campaign has focused on public security and education. Uruguay's homicide rate remains one of the lowest in the region, but a modest increase in crime in recent years has spurred both urban and rural Uruguayans to rank security as the principal problem facing the nation – well ahead of the second leading concern, education. The October elections will coincide with a referendum on lowering the age of criminal responsibility from 18 to 16 for serious offensives, with polls showing Uruguayans closely divided but leaning toward approval. On the education front, the FA's Plan Ceiba has helped provide laptops to every student, but 2012 assessment data from the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development still place Uruguay's students well below the international average in math, science, and reading.
The FA's political situation is paradoxical: it has presided over major socioeconomic improvements in the last decade and won international acclaim, but earned a more tepid response at home. Uruguay's decision to legalize marijuana was widely celebrated abroad as a step toward a more progressive drug policy in the region, but polls continue to show that a majority of Uruguayans oppose legalization, and it has not won the FA much support even among proponents of cannabis, who have resisted the creation of a registry of buyers. (Vázquez recently suggested the registry would be used to develop rehabilitation programs.) The FA seems to have not yet figured out how to respond effectively to the perception of insecurity, nor has it overseen a decided improvement in education, which is central to long-term development prospects. With Brazil's Partido dos Trabalhadores facing an uncertain future, and political crises in Argentina and Venezuela simmering, the FA may be the first case of a larger regional rollback of the first wave of 21st century leftwing movements.
by clalsstaff on September 30, 2014 • Permalink
Posted in Uruguay
Tagged Argentina, Bordaberry, Brazil, Colorado Party, Drug Policy, Education, Elections, Frente Amplio, Insecurity, Lacalle Pou, Left-wing Movements, Marijuana Legalization, Partido Nacional, Plan Ceiba, Uruguay, Uruguayan Elections, Vázquez (Tabaré), Venezuela
Posted by clalsstaff on September 30, 2014
https://aulablog.net/2014/09/30/elections-in-uruguay-a-bellwether-for-the-latin-american-left/
Drug Dealing in Costa Rica: A Perverse Path toward Social Inclusion
By Rodolfo Calderón Umaña*
Antonio / Flickr / Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 2.0 Generic (CC BY-NC-SA 2.0)
Central America's emergence as a principal transit route for illicit drugs from South America to the U.S. has given rise to local retail markets supplying users within the region. A study of three Costa Rican communities – one in greater San José and two along the Caribbean coast – highlights several factors that determine the scale and consequences of these local markets. Among the most important are the high levels of social exclusion experienced by households in these localities and residents' motivation to become involved in the business because it offers resources (money, power and prestige) that cannot be achieved through the legitimate channels of education or quality employment. Other factors include the proximity of the communities to drug trafficking routes and the extent of previously existing demand from local consumers.
One of the most significant characteristics of local drug markets in these communities, as elsewhere, is that they are socially and territorially bounded because trust is the key factor shaping relationships between suppliers, sellers and consumers. Some local suppliers maintain direct ties to cartels, but they operate their businesses independently. Youth are assigned the most vulnerable tasks and are thus disproportionately represented among those arrested and convicted of crimes. Violence serves as the principal instrument for controlling and regulating the drug trade, and the result is that for youth in these settings violence becomes normalized as a routine form of behavior. This spawns a generalized climate of fear and insecurity, and the typical response of community residents is to retreat from public space and to isolate themselves inside their homes.
These findings support calls for new responses to the drug trade at the community level. Central American governments, encouraged to a significant degree by U.S. programs, have tended to emphasize repressing and "combatting" the scourge of drug trafficking, yet where this approach has been implemented – particularly in Central America's Northern Triangle — social problems have only gotten worse. In Costa Rica, it's not too late to undertake a comprehensive strategic review of policies in this domain and to bolster programs to stabilize affected areas. Particularly if designed and implemented from the bottom up, programs can identify and reach out to vulnerable residents before they are drawn into drug micro-markets as vendors, consumers, or both. Vocational training programs matched to real employment opportunities are absolutely fundamental – to reduce residents' social exclusion. Our research findings indicate that enhancement of public spaces where community residents can congregate and initiatives focused on building trust between communities at risk and representatives of the state can also be highly productive. Costa Rica is at a critical juncture: it can either sustain and expand the participatory policy frameworks that buttress community cohesion and resilience or run the risk of falling into the devastating spiral of delinquency and violence that has plagued its neighbors in the Northern Triangle.
*Dr. Calderón Umaña is a researcher at FLACSO-Costa Rica. The study is being conducted by FLACSO-Costa Rica with funding from the International Development Research Centre.
Posted in Central America, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Trade
Tagged Central America, Costa Rica, Crime, Drug Policy, Drug Trafficking, FLACSO, Insecurity, Social Exclusion, U.S.A., Violence
https://aulablog.net/2014/08/11/drug-dealing-in-costa-rica-a-perverse-path-toward-social-inclusion/
Mujica's Liberal Experiment: Model for the Latin American Left?
By Robert Albro
President José Mujica on stage with SIS Dean James Goldgeier
Uruguayan President José "Pepe" Mujica, whose recent trip to Washington included a stop at American University, is doubtless Latin America's most unconventional president. A former leftist guerrilla who spent 14 years in prison, Mujica gives away 90 percent of his salary, refuses to live in the presidential mansion, grows chrysanthemums, and has twice been nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. He was elected in 2009 as candidate of the center-left Frente Amplio, and his accomplishments have transformed him into an international figure – and turned Uruguay into an intriguing experiment in social liberalism. He has avoided the populist tendencies and overt anti-Americanism of other Latin American leftists, while promoting programs of social inclusion alongside a pro-business economic agenda. Under Mujica, Uruguay has enacted an affirmative action law, legalized abortion in the first trimester, and legalized gay marriage. Most discussed has been his administration's controversial launch this year of a legal government-licensed and -regulated marijuana market.
Mujica is notably less popular at home than abroad, however. After plunging to 36 percent in late 2012, his approval rating has since hovered around 47 percent. With national elections (in which he cannot run) looming in October, a poll last month showed the Frente Amplio losing significant ground to the opposition. Mujica has consistently dismissed the polls. He went ahead with legalizing pot, for example, despite a September 2013 poll indicating that 63 percent of Uruguayans still did not support the measure. His asylum offer for up to six Guantanamo detainees, based on humanitarian concerns, has also not been popular, with only 23 percent of Uruguayans approving. Uruguay ranks among the safest countries in the Americas, with 5.9 homicides per 100,000 people, and yet the perception of insecurity is widespread. In a 2012 poll 56 percent of Uruguayans still reported crime and violence to be the country's most pressing problem. If celebrated by advocates of social liberalism, Mujica's policy measures often appear out of kilter with popular perceptions and priorities.
Mujica is often cited as offering a potential alternative to the Bolivarian brand of "21st century socialism." But, in what is arguably Latin America's most socially liberal country, the former Marxist has governed as a pragmatist. Uruguay has a lot going for it, including: a stable banking system, free and secular education, low levels of corruption and social inequality, robust press freedoms, and stable governance with functional political parties. It is second in South America behind Argentina on International Living's quality of life index. It has the third highest GDP per capita – triple that of Ecuador and Bolivia – and under Mujica has sustained stable economic and wage growth, and increased foreign investment in farming, forestry and pulp mills. However, while he gets points for his international celebrity, austere lifestyle, and colorful persona, Mujica risks alienating the many citizens who care more about unemployment, inflation, crime and insecurity than about the environment, cannabis and gay marriage. It is not clear whether over time Uruguayans will support Mujica's particular left-liberal pragmatic brand of governance and whether his is a model embraced by other Latin American leaders.
Posted in Uncategorized, Uruguay
Tagged Drug Policy, Mujica, Public Opinion, Uruguay
https://aulablog.net/2014/05/19/mujicas-liberal-experiment-model-for-the-latin-american-left/
What does the New Year hold for Latin America?
We've invited AULABLOG's contributors to share with us a prediction or two for the new year in their areas of expertise. Here are their predictions.
Photo credit: titoalfredo / Foter.com / CC BY-NC-SA
U.S.-Latin America relations will deteriorate further as there will be little movement in Washington on immigration reform, the pace of deportations, narcotics policy, weapons flows, or relations with Cuba. Steady progress toward consolidating the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), however, will catalyze a shared economic agenda with market-oriented governments in Chile, Mexico, Peru and possibly Colombia, depending on how election-year politics affects that country's trade stance.
– Eric Hershberg
The energy sector will be at the core of the economic and political crises many countries in the Americas will confront in 2014. Argentina kicked off the New Year with massive blackouts and riots. Bolivia, the PetroCaribe nations, and potentially even poster child Chile are next.
– Thomas Andrew O'Keefe
Unprecedented success of Mexico's Peña Nieto passing structural reforms requiring constitutional amendments that eluded three previous administrations spanning 18 years, are encouraging for the country's prospects of faster growth. Key for 2014: quality and expediency of secondary implementing legislation and effectiveness in execution of the reforms.
– Manuel Suarez-Mier
Mexico may be leading the way, at least in the short term, with exciting energy sector reforms, which if fully executed, could help bring Mexico's oil industry into the 21st Century, even if this means discarding, at least partly, some of the rhetorical nationalism which made Mexico's inefficient and romanticized parastatal oil company – Petróleos Mexicanos (PEMEX) – a symbol of Mexican national pride. Let's see if some of the proceeds from the reforms and resulting production boosts can fortify ideals of the Mexican Revolution by generating more social programs to diminish inequality, and getting rid of the bloat and corruption at PEMEX.
– Todd Eisenstadt
Brazil is without a doubt "the country of soccer," as Brazilians like to say. If Brazil wins the world cup in June, Dilma will also have an easy win in the presidential elections. But if it loses, Dilma will have to deal with new protests and accusations of big spending to build soccer fields rather than improving education and health.
– Luciano Melo
Brazilian foreign policy is unlikely to undergo deep changes, although emphasis could shift in some areas. Brazil will insist on multilateral solutions – accepting, for example, the invitation to participate at a "five-plus-one" meeting on Syria. The WTO Doha Round will remain a priority. Foreign policy does not appear likely to be a core issue in the October general elections. If economic difficulties do not grow, Brazil will continue to upgrade its international role.
– Tullo Vigevani
In U.S.-Cuba relations, expect agreements on Coast Guard search and rescue, direct postal service, oil spill prevention, and – maybe – counternarcotics. Warming relations could set the stage for releasing Alan Gross (and others?) in exchange for the remaining Cuban Five (soon to be three). But normalizing relations is not in the cards until Washington exchanges its regime change policy for one of real coexistence. A handshake does not make for a détente.
– William M. LeoGrande
A decline in the flow of Venezuelan resources to Cuba will impact the island's economy, but the blow will be cushioned by continued expansion of Brazilian investment and trade and deepened economic ties with countries outside the Americas.
In a non-election year in Venezuela, President Maduro will begin to incrementally increase the cost of gasoline at the pump, currently the world's lowest, and devalue the currency – but neither will solve deep economic troubles. Dialogue with the opposition, a new trend, will endure but experience fits and starts. The country will not experience a social explosion, and new faces will join Capriles to round out a more diverse opposition leadership. Barring a crisis requiring cooperation, tensions with the United States will remain high but commerce will be unaffected.
– Michael McCarthy
Colombia's negotiations with the FARC won't be resolved by the May 2014 elections, which President Santos will win easily – most likely in the first round. There will be more interesting things going on in the legislative races. Former President Uribe will win a seat in the Senate. Other candidates in his party will win as well – probably not as many as he would like but enough for him to continue being a big headache for the Santos administration. Colombia's economy will continue to improve, and the national football team will put up a good fight in the World Cup.
– Elyssa Pachico
Awareness of violence against women will keep increasing. Unfortunately, the criminalization of abortion or, in other words, forcing pregnancy on women, will still be treated by many policy makers and judges as an issue unrelated to gender violence.
– Macarena Saez
In the North American partnership, NAFTA's anniversary offers a chance to reflect on the trilateral relationship – leaving behind the campaign rhetoric and looking forward. The leaders will hold a long-delayed summit and offer some small, but positive, measures on education and infrastructure. North America will be at the center of global trade negotiations.
– Tom Long
The debate over immigration reform in Washington will take on the component parts of the Senate's comprehensive bill. Both parties could pat themselves on the back heading into the mid-term elections by working out a deal, most likely trading enhanced security measures for a more reasonable but still-imposing pathway to citizenship.
– Aaron Bell
The new government in Honduras will try to deepen neoliberal policies, but new political parties, such as LIBRE and PAC, will make the new Congress more deliberative. Low economic growth and deterioration in social conditions will present challenges to governability.
– Hugo Noé Pino
In the northern tier of Central America, despite new incoming presidents in El Salvador and Honduras, impunity and corruption will remain unaddressed. Guatemala's timid reform will be the tiny window of hope in the region. The United States will still appear clueless about the region's growing governance crisis.
– Héctor Silva
Increased tension will continue in the Dominican Republic in the aftermath of the Constitutional Tribunal's decision to retroactively strip Dominicans of Haitian descent of citizenship. The implementation of the ruling in 2014 through repatriation will be met with international pressure for the Dominican government to reverse the ruling.
— Maribel Vásquez
In counternarcotics policy, eyes will turn to Uruguay to see how the experiment with marijuana plays out. Unfortunately, it is too small an experiment to tell us anything. Instead, the focus will become the growing problem of drug consumption in the region.
– Steven Dudley
Eyeing a late-year general election and possible third term, Bolivian President Evo Morales will be in campaign mode throughout 2014. With no real challengers, Morales will win, but not in a landslide, as he fights with dissenting indigenous groups and trade unionists, a more divisive congress, the U.S., and Brazil.
– Robert Albro
In Ecuador, with stable economic numbers throughout 2014, President Rafael Correa will be on the offensive with his "citizen revolution," looking to solidify his political movement in local elections, continuing his war on the press, while promoting big new investments in hydroelectric power.
Determined to expand Peru's investment in extractive industries and maintain strong economic growth, President Ollanta Humalla will apply new pressure on opponents of proposed concessions, leading to fits and starts of violent conflict throughout 2014, with the president mostly getting his way.
Posted in Conflict, Immigration, Trade, Uncategorized
Tagged 2O14 World Cup, Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Brazilian Politics, Capriles, Central America, Chile, Colombia, Correa, Deportation, Dilma Rousseff, Dominican Republic, Drug Policy, Economy, Ecuador, El Salvador, Energy, FARC, Gross (Alan), Haitian, Honduras, Humala, Immigration Reform, Maduro, Mexico, Mexico Reforms, Morales, NAFTA, Neoliberalism, Peña Nieto, PEMEX, Peru, PetroCaribe, Santos, TPP, U.S.-Cuba Relations, Uribe, Uruguay, Venezuela, Violence against women, WTO
https://aulablog.net/2014/01/07/what-does-the-new-year-hold-for-latin-america/
Revitalization of the OAS: More than an act of Congress
By Carlos Portales*
U.S. Congressional passage in late September of the "Organization of American States Revitalization and Reform Act of 2013" could either help revitalize the troubled body or contribute to its irrelevance. By directing the U.S. Secretary of State to develop and drive OAS reform options, the bill seeks to give much higher priority in the OAS and Summit of the Americas to promoting and consolidating democracy in the hemisphere – "with due respect for the principle of nonintervention" – while recognizing that "key OAS strengths" are also in strengthening peace and security, assisting and monitoring elections, and fostering economic growth. Reducing "mandates" – ongoing programs that tend to get institutionalized – is another priority. The new law also requires Secretary Kerry to devise a strategy for a new fee structure in which no member state would pay more than 50 percent of OAS's assessed yearly fees. (The U.S. Library of Congress reports that the United States, the organization's largest donor, contributed an estimated $67.5 million in fiscal year 2012 – nearly 43 percent of the total 2012 budget.)
The reforms parallel ideas presented by OAS Secretary General Insulza in his "Strategic Vision of the OAS" on December 2011 (updated in March 2013) striving for concentration on four main pillars: democracy and conflict resolution; human rights; development (in association with the Inter-American Development Bank); and security (mainly against drugs and organized crime). He also advocated limiting a single state contribution to 49 percent without reducing the OAS's total budget. The Secretary General embraced similar reforms when the legislation was first introduced by then-Senator Kerry in the previous Congress.
Agreement that the OAS needs reform is nearly universal, but any strategic transformation will have to take into account important developments among the Latin American international organizations. The OAS handily accommodated the creation of subregional organizations such as SICA and CARICOM in the past. But new bodies – such as UNASUR, CELAC and ALBA – have posed new challenges to the organization's relevance and effectiveness. Differences among the organizations have emerged over trade, democracy (different value attributed to the independence of powers and to press freedom, as well as of handling of crises in Venezuela, Honduras, and Paraguay), security (withdrawal of five countries from the Inter-American Treaty of Reciprocal Assistance), the strategy against drugs, and relations with the United States. The organizations have also created new arenas for leaders to meet, at times taxing governments' ability to keep up. From 1990 to 2012 there have been 272 Latin American regional and subregional summits, including eight Summits of the Americas. When Secretary Kerry delivers his plan, it will be difficult for him to strike a balance between bringing the OAS more in line with Washington priorities, as laid out in the legislation, and seeking a bigger tent that addresses some of the concerns that gave rise to the plethora of competing organizations.
*Carlos Portales is the Director of the Program on International Organizations, Law and Diplomacy at WCL, American University. He was Ambassador of Chile to the OAS between 1997 to 2000."
Posted in Honduras, Paraguay, Trade, Uncategorized, Venezuela
Tagged ALBA, CARICOM, CELAC, Conflict Resolution, Democracy, Development, Drug Policy, Honduras, Human Rights, Insulza, Kerry, OAS, OAS Revitalization and Reform Act of 2013, Paraguay, Reform, SICA, Summit of the Americas, U.S. Secretary of State, UNASUR, Venezuela
https://aulablog.net/2013/10/28/revitalization-of-the-oas-more-than-an-act-of-congress/
High Time for a U.S.-Bolivia Reset
By Rob Albro, CLALS Faculty Affiliate
President Evo Morales in a climate meeting at the University of Oslo | by Utenriksdept | Flickr | Creative Commons
Little has changed in the U.S-Bolivia relationship since each expelled the other's ambassador and suspended full diplomatic ties in 2008. Last month a Bolivian official accused the United States of trying to sabotage the administration of President Evo Morales, and Morales has not dropped his pugnacious anti-U.S. rhetoric. Washington, for its part, has persistently criticized Bolivian anti-drug policies, while not acknowledging the failures of its own decades-long "war on drugs." As discussions surrounding Secretary of State Kerry's January 24 confirmation hearing suggested, U.S. policy toward several Latin American countries – including Bolivia – is still on Cold War autopilot, continuing to use code-words like "socialism," implicitly and incorrectly viewing the recent and historic changes in that country largely through the prisms of Venezuela and Cuba.
Along with many observers outside of Washington, the Bolivian government understands itself to be addressing long-standing demands to correct a historical lack of social inclusion, to institute a more participatory (and "plurinational") democratic process, and to pursue economic sovereignty. In notable contrast to Venezuela, with which Bolivia is often lumped together, the country's long-marginalized indigenous majority is in the national political driver's seat for the first time. Despite Morales's rhetoric to the contrary, Bolivia is far from rejecting the free market. It recently applied for full participation in MERCOSUR, and has welcomed foreign investment in its sizable petroleum and lithium deposits. Along with Peru and Ecuador, Bolivia has also sought ways to maintain economic growth while protecting the environment and avoiding unsustainable extractivist policies. Bolivia's is a hybrid approach: mixing an alternative democratic tradition domestically with the promotion of Bolivia Inc. globally.
It is past time for Washington to move on from its one-size-fits-all approach toward Andean countries, and to take more seriously the perspectives and priorities of their peoples and governments. And Bolivia's recent history provides ample opportunity for the U.S. to identify common – if not identical – ground. Morales's frequent statement that Bolivia is looking for "partners, not bosses" echoes President Obama's own 2009 speech about "partnership" in our hemispheric "neighborhood." Obama's recent inaugural call for more effective "collective action" resonates with the spirit of Bolivia's ongoing plurinational democratic experiment. And if climate change is back on the U.S. political agenda, Bolivia continues to be a global catalyst for this important multilateral discussion. Emphasizing these shared problems, experiences, and aspirations, can provide a foundation for closer relations.
by clalsstaff on February 7, 2013 • Permalink
Posted in Bolivia, Ecuador, Peru, Uncategorized, Venezuela
Tagged Bolivia, Drug Policy, Economy, Ecuador, Environmental Issues, Indigenous, Kerry, MERCOSUR, Morales, Obama, Particip, Peru, Plurinational Democracy, Social Inclusion, Socialism, U.S. Policy, Venezuela
Posted by clalsstaff on February 7, 2013
https://aulablog.net/2013/02/07/high-time-for-a-u-s-bolivia-reset/
Brazil's Counternarcotics Policy Challenges
By Tom Long
Minister Alexandre Padilha meeting to discuss policies against crack | Photo by: Ministério da Saúde | Flickr | Creative Commons
Long a significant market for cocaine – the second or third largest in the world according to estimates – Brazil is suffering a major increase in crack cocaine use. Visible in the centers of major cities, drug abuse has become a more serious national concern as Brazil prepares to mount the world stage as host of the 2014 World Cup and the 2016 Rio Olympics. Brazil was slow to recognize the problem as it grew to epidemic levels, surpassing the United States as the largest consumer of crack cocaine, according to a recent report from the Federal University of São Paulo. While national and local authorities have emphasized their recent approach to drugs as focused on public health – in contrast with the U.S.-led, supply-oriented policies – Brazil also has increased control and interdiction efforts. According to the UN, cocaine seizures by Brazilian security tripled between 2004 and 2010.
The effort to control the flow of cocaine into and through Brazil will test both the country's diplomacy and state capacity. Its long, undefended and sparsely populated borders touch every major narcotics-producing and transiting country in South America, and cooperation in addressing the problem varies widely for political reasons and disparities in capabilities. For example, the government of President Evo Morales in Bolivia has declined Brazilian requests for crossborder eradication, InSight Crime reported. Other countries' counternarcotics focus is almost completely internal, such as in Colombia and Peru. As a result, Brazil is increasing action on its own. President Dilma Rousseff supports plans to spend some $400 million on an expanded fleet of unmanned aerial vehicles, or drones, to provide surveillance of its borders. Military patrols have increased, albeit in necessarily limited areas.
Experts have long warned that the "balloon effect" of counter-narcotics policies – when successful drug operations push the trade into less-defended countries and regions – was going to worsen the flow and use of narcotics in Brazil, and Brazil has long sought ways, within its resources, to collaborate. When U.S.-Bolivia cooperation deteriorated in 2009-2010, for example, Brasilia tried to fill some of the void. Brazilian diplomats have usually tried to lead quietly, build consensus, and avoid obvious pressure on neighbors. However, as concerns grow, domestic politics could push Brazilian leaders to be more assertive, with the potential benefits and risks that would entail. The challenge will be for them to find ways to collaborate on a common drug strategy with often skeptical neighbors while making gains to reduce internal demand. Four decades of U.S. experience provide a cautionary tale.
Posted in Brazil, Colombia, Conflict, Peru, Uncategorized
Tagged 2016 Rio Olympics, 2O14 World Cup, Brazil, Cocaine, Colombia, Dilma Rousseff, Drug Policy, Drug Trafficking, Peru, Public Health, South America
https://aulablog.net/2013/02/04/brazils-counternarcotics-policy-challenges/
Obama and Peña Nieto: Turning the same page?
CLALS doctoral research fellow
Official White House photo by Pete Souza | public domain
On Saturday, Mexico's new president Enrique Peña Nieto took office and the country's oldest party, the Partido Revolucionario Institucional, returned to power. After six years dominated by an exhausting and bloody war against drug cartels, Mexico seems ready to turn the page on outgoing President Felipe Calderón. During the last few months, Peña Nieto has tried to steer the attention of the world—and the United States—away from a disproportionate focus on drug violence. In a recent article published in The Economist, the new president downplayed drug cartels, focusing instead on plans for the economy and to "recover our leadership in Latin America." Security was just one of thirteen proposals in his inaugural speech. In part, Calderón has given Peña Nieto a head start as he begins his term, leaving behind strong economic growth and a dip in violence. Although Calderón himself started the switch to a violence-reduction strategy, his name is likely to remain closely associated with the frontal military assault on the cartels launched at the beginning of his administration and recalibrated only in his final year; Peña Nieto is positioned to gain credit for a return to normalcy.
This desire to turn the page also marked Peña Nieto's s pre-inaugural meeting with President Barack Obama. Both leaders seemed to be playing the same tune. Mexico has become the front line in the war on drugs, and the U.S. has spent billions on military, police, and other projects lumped under a "Merida Initiative" label. After their meeting, Obama and Peña Nieto promised to expand the bilateral agenda to include an expansion of trade, cooperation on energy, and discussions of immigration that go beyond border fences. Obama spoke effusively of Mexico's importance as a partner, while Peña Nieto said the two had a "shared vision" of how to create jobs in both countries. On the stage with Obama as elsewhere, Peña Nieto reiterated calls for the United States and Canada to build on NAFTA and further regional integration to improve competitiveness.
It would be a healthy change if the two presidents could restore balance between economic and security aspects of U.S.-Mexico relations. Image matters – and the deterioration of Mexico's brand has undermined both investment and tourism. The military approach to drug trafficking has inflicted enormous costs in economic and human terms with questionable payoffs, but Mexico cannot go back to old patterns of accommodation. Domestically, the new president needs to attack the culture of impunity by building a stronger and more independent judiciary in order to reduce the frightful percentages of crimes that are never investigated or prosecuted. Accountability remains weak, especially at state and local levels; improving it would require Peña Nieto to take on powers in his own party. Placing all these objectives under a "Merida plus" framework would counterproductively squeeze broad reforms into the drug-war box. If the two presidents are sincere about rebuilding a balanced partnership, they need to take action quickly on immigration and commerce. Otherwise, the gravitational pull of the war of drugs will again consume bilateral ties.
Posted in Conflict, Immigration, Mexico, Trade, Uncategorized
Tagged Bilateral Relations, Calderon, Drug Policy, Drug Trafficking, Energy, Immigration, Impunity, Mérida Initiative, Mexico, NAFTA, Obama, Peña Nieto, PRI, Reform, Trade, Violence, War on Drugs
https://aulablog.net/2012/12/03/obama-and-pena-nieto-turning-the-same-page/


Once my my first son was born, I quickly realized how expensive store bought baby food was. So I started teaching myself to make my own and over time I learned how much healthier it was for my children. Now I have control over what exactly is put into their little bodies - no extra sugars or unknown ingredients and dyes!
I actually started doing this six years ago using the original Magic Bullet which a friend recommended to me. I have loved the brand ever since! I truly would love to have the whole collection for my kitchen eventually! It's amazing to me that only just now, after six years of heavy use that my original one is starting to die.
I was actually asked to work with the Bullet Family a few months ago on a review of the Baby Bullet. I use the baby bullet for making baby food now for my nephew. I was beyond thrilled to be given the opportunity again to review another Bullet Brand product. This time around I was sent the NutriBullet which I had been eyeballing for a while now!
The NutriBullet system includes an all-new extractor blade, a milling blade, a power base, a short cup with a handled Comfort Lip Ring, a handled short cup with a Comfort Lip Ring, a tall cup, two stay fresh lids, and a recipe book/nutrition guide.
On and off, I have been attempting a few raw foods/juice dieting options. I am not only trying to lose weight but cleanse my system. I am so sick of feeling helpless and overweight. So when a friend recently told me how much weight and how quickly she lost it using a juice diet, I had to give this new option a try.
Instead of using the ever so popular method of juicing which removes vital elements from your fruits and vegetables, the NutriBullet's exclusive extractor technology breaks down everything you put inside and effectively. When you use a typical blender in attempt to do the same thing you end up with chunks or seeds which affect the way your drink tastes. Chunks of ice, seed, or skins get stuck in straws making it harder to enjoy.
Being that I am not only trying to lose weight but I also suffer from tons of sports injuries as well as had arthritis since I was a young child, I know how important it is that I start having better eating habits. I love the NutriBullet Blog which has tons of recipes and tips available for beginners and extreme athletes. You can also find easy NutriBullet recipes to make for all your family's needs!
Not only is everything explained clearly step by step in the recipe book but the power of the blades makes blending food super quick. For my first beverage I went with something simple which was an Orange Julius protein drink. I was beyond impressed with how quickly the NutriBullet blended everything up into almost pure liquid.
I was able to drink this beverage extremely quickly as there were no chunks of ice or frozen banana and no pulp left from the pineapple or oranges! Even the powdered protein was mixed perfectly so it didn't have a gritty taste/texture! It was absolutely amazing!
What's especially exciting and I can't wait to try is the fact that you can make even more than beverages with your Nutribullet! Things like soup (my personal favorite when dieting or as snacks), ice cream (who doesn't love a freshly made snack), and dressings or dips (mmm...I am thinking fresh hummus)! Everything included with the NutriBullet is made dishwasher safe for easy cleanups (except the motor base and blades).
Recommendation: I remember looking at the price of this six years ago and thinking it was pretty steep for such a small gadget but now after using mine, I would pay double for the length of time this has lasted me and the quality it is still putting out. Now I just have to get myself the Party Bullet!!!
Giveaway: The NutriBullet is going to give one of A Lucky Ladybug's lucky readers a NutriBullet of their own!
I would try the Elixir of life.
I would love to win because I need to get real food and hide it for some youngsters that do not eat well.
I'd try the Orange Krush first - it looks very refreshing! I love smoothies and this looks like it would work easier and better than my blender.
I love my Magic Bullet and have also been eyeing the NutriBullet! Mine is starting to take a turn for the worse so I know a new one is my very near future!
I took a look at their recipes and I already see a few I want to try, like the Orange Krush! Almost sounds like a creamcile!
I would love to win this because I am just starting on the path to eating healthier and I think this would really be beneficial. I would love to try the Orange Krush recipe.
If I was fortunate to win a Nutribullet, I would definitely try the Creamsicle Dream recipe! The combination of orange, pineapple sounds both yummy and healthy!
I love your story thanks! I love making my baby her home made food!!
I actually don't want this NutriBullet for myself, I want it for my family back home. I'm the oldest of 7 siblings and am currently the only one who has left home. Money has always been an issue for my family and both of their MagicBullets have already broken. I have one and love it and they want one too. It's just a lot of money for one item so if can get this for them that would be awesome!
The first recipe I would try is the Orange Krush because I could really use a boost of vitamin C during this cold winter!
#5 would be the one I would try. Carrot, orange slices, ginger, honey and water.
I would love to give one of the NutriBullets to my kids because my granddaughter is a very choosy eater. I would whip up a nutritious drink for her before school. So much better than cereal for breakfast because I could add the oats in the drink! I love my NB and use it every day!
I have the Nutribullet 900 and use it for my Shakeology. After seeing Orange Julius I want to make that. I am trying to eat green. Fruits and vegetables as I have cancer and am on chemo. Lots of processed foods taste horrible but shakes, smoothies with raw fresh fruits and vegetables help keep me as healthy as I can be. The added benefit is that I bounce back after chemo just a little quicker. Don't want to miss too many Zumba classes. Happy Nutribulleting!!!!!
hope I'm posting to the right place (as there's no other comments). Anyway. as the first item, I was going to say one of the green drinks, but I want to try to make the feta herb dip. I would not have thought to make a dip in the Nutribullet. I would like to win so I can make this dip (and drinks).
My first nutrient blend would be spinach, pineapple and coconut, with almonds.
I love the way it blends the nutrients no lumps or chunks, nice drink and makes you feel full.
I have had my Nutribullet for a month and love its versatility, speed, ease of cleaning - and what comes out of it is yummy! I think I might next try the Valentine's Day smoothie once pomegranates come back into season, but for now my favorite blends are greens, apple and grapefruit and anything with turmeric which I'm adding to my diet for its anti-inflammatory benefits. I'd love to win another machine so that I could share it with my parents who have a variety of health issues between then and would love the smoothies for their taste and nutritional value.
I love the nutribullet Ive been using it for a few months and I feel great. The joint pain is so much better and I have more energy.. I really wish to win this for a friend of mine that suffers from fibromyalgia. I feel this increase in nutritional benefit will help her so much..
Hi if i won I will use recipe number 6 from the blog first cause I love desserts! I should win because this would help me eat healthier and loose some weight, this would be good cause I dont like to eat a lot of veggies whole, lol thanks hope I win!
I would try super bowl spinach dip first. I am always looking for ways to make whole foods and winning the Nutribullet would help me do this. I tried juicing years ago, but cleaning the juicer was a pain and I didn't like the amount of pulp that I wasn't using. I was using it, but for compost. I would rather take this fiber in. Food is expensive. Exciting to hear if I win.
Would love to win one for my son. I love the nutribullet but I do have trouble getting it tight enough not to leak.
I Would love to try the Green Smoothie of LIFE first, because the reviews tell me how alive and healthy this drink can make me feel. I want to win it for me and my family since it is so easy and versatile to operate.
I would love to win this for my mother and I. We both have high blood pressure and it will improve our health. I would try the Elixir of Life recipe.
would love to try the orange krush drink,,,My husband wants to start juicing , but is on the road a lot, would be nice for him to take a nuturiBullet with him.
I would love this so I would be able to put healthier foods into my body and hopefully regain some energy!
I just bought the nutri bullet and I love it.. Its so easy to make protein shakes and to juice .. Living a much healthier live style..
I would try the orange krush since I love citrus... I would realy realy would love to win this I am at the heaviest I have ever been in my adult life :( and I realy want to get healthy jucing my veggies and fruits seem to be the key :) I have lost weight in the past but never the healthy way diet pills fad diets and so on this time I really want to focus on having a healthy life style and losing weight the right way for ME <3 my health, body and as a single mother setting a great example to my wonderfull 7yr old..
When I was younger my favorite ice cream pop was the Orange Creamsicle Popsicle so I would definitely have to try this Orange Creamsicle drink first. I also love making healthy nutrient drinks because of health reasons. Because of my disease I have to eat a lot of raw fruits and veggies and this would be perfect for making healthy drinks and dips. I have RA in my hands and I need something simple to use that isn't so big and heavy like a blender and I like that I can make just a single drink for myself without having to use a big heavy blender. This is why I would love the NUTRiBULLET.
I would love to win the Nutribullet and make the Elixir of Life. I have a difficult time incorporating enough veggies into my day, and feeling sluggish in the afternoon after a workout. I think this just might be the pick me up I need !
I really want to make my own hummus! I love the ease of this little machine. So much more simple than a big bulky blender. Would also enjoy quick, easy, healthy breakfast smoothies and increased energy from fruits and veggies. Could really benefit with my chronic inflammatory arthritis.
The elixir of life is the recipe that I would try first!! The intra bullet would be a wonderful system for me, due to the fact that, I have an auto immune disorder, that renders me quit ill, with fatigue, sickness, muscle/joint pain, that only is helped with steroids, which causes other problems!!=This system would help me, make simpler, healthy choices, which would provide me with nutrients my body needs!!
The Oat Flour Chocolate Chip Cookies look yummy! I'd love to be able to start eating healthier, and this is a great start!
The Oat Flour Chocolate Chip Cookies sound yummy! I'd love to be able to start eating healthier, and this is a great start!
The first recipe I'd make is the Peanut Butter Banana Blast. A healthy dessert option that contains two of my favorite ingredients.


text:
Packers should pursue trade for Browns guard Kevin Zeitler
The Browns reportedly will look to trade Kevin Zeitler this offseason, and the Packers have plenty of reasons to partner on a deal.
By Jason B. Hirschhorn@by_JBH Mar 7, 2019, 3:00pm CST
Share All sharing options for: Packers should pursue trade for Browns guard Kevin Zeitler
Sometime between the start of the new league year and the 2019 NFL Draft, the Green Bay Packers have to plug their longstanding hole at right guard. Though several enticing options exist in free agency and the incoming rookie class, a trade could prove the best way to fill the void.
According to the Cleveland Plain Dealer's Mary Kay Cabot, the Cleveland Browns will look into trading guard Kevin Zeitler. Zeitler originally joined the team in 2017 as a free agent, signing a five-year deal worth $60 million, then the highest-paying contract for an interior offensive lineman. Zeitler has so far played up to expectation, starting every game over the past two years while yielding only six sacks during that stretch. Zeitler proved particularly dominant as a pass protector in 2018, allowing just 13 total pressures.
Normally, players of Zeitler's caliber don't become available. However, Browns general manager John Dorsey invested the 33rd overall pick last April in Austin Corbett, a talented guard prospect without a spot on the line. Just as significantly, the team's investment in Zeitler came before Dorsey's arrival in Cleveland. With no personal stake in Zeitler and a reason to push someone else into his starting role, Dorsey appears willing to trade the highly paid guard.
Though Dorsey could partner with any interested team on a trade, he might first look to his old employer. Dorsey worked in the Packers' front office for the majority of his career as a scout and executive, leaving Green Bay in 2013 to become GM of the Kansas City Chiefs. Last offseason, Dorsey struck his first trade with the Packers, sending quarterback DeShone Kizer for defensive back Damarious Randall and a swap of picks in the fourth and fifth rounds. Should Dorsey partner with Green Bay again, he would avoid any negative repercussions of sending away a talented guard as the two teams don't face off until 2021.
That combination of factors could benefit the Packers. Since allowing T.J. Lang to depart during the 2017 offseason, they have struggled to find a long-term solution at right guard. The team signed veteran Jahri Evans almost as an afterthought on the eve of the 2017 NFL Draft only to watch him ascend to the top of the depth due to the lack of viable alternatives. Justin McCray and Byron Bell shared that role this past season, though neither performed at an acceptable level. Zeitler could immediately step in as Green Bay's top interior O-lineman and cross off one of the biggest items from general manager Brian Gutekunst's to-do list.
And while Zeitler's contract still ranks among the biggest for a guard in terms of average annual value, the contract the Packers would inherit looks far more affordable. A post-trade Zeitler would only cost $10 million each of the next two years and $12 million the one after that, and the deal contains no guaranteed money after 2019. Essentially, Green Bay could move on from Zeitler either of the next two offseasons without penalty.
Zeitler becomes more attractive for the Packers when considering the alternatives. The free-agent pool does contain starting guards such as Rodger Saffold and Ramon Foster, but both fall on the wrong side of 30 and haven't performed at Zeitler's level. If either makes it to the market, they will command decently sized contracts without the same level of return as Zeitler.
Alternatively, the Packers could draft a guard, but they would risk having a rookie thrown into the fire under a first-time offensive-line coach. Zeitler provides immediate impact while offering the team stability at the position for the foreseeable future. Green Bay could even invest a mid-round pick along the offensive line and allow them to develop behind Zeitler.
Of course, Zeitler only makes sense at a reasonable price. The Packers certainly wouldn't part with one of their top-50 draft selections, but the conversation could begin with their third-round pick and move from there. Gutekunst's wheeling and dealing from 2018 has added multiple picks to his arsenal, and Green Bay could package one of their fourth-rounders with a late draft choice or minor asset for Zeitler's services. Such a trade would satisfy the needs of both teams without blowing up either's offseason plans.
Adding Zeitler would reinforce the Packers' offseason commitment to building the offense. New head coach Matt LaFleur's offense relies heavily on play-action, often with the quarterback's back turned to the defense. A porous offensive line could derail the scheme and put Aaron Rodgers at risk. Zeitler would plug the team's longstanding void at right guard and ease the transition to the new offense. If Cleveland really has placed Zeitler on the trading block, Green Bay will have a hard time finding a more efficient use of their resources.
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redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


The Ion Audio Party On is a super small Bluetooth-supported speaker system that has a LED dome that emits lights onto the walls and ceiling.
The small design makes it very compact and portable. It can fit in the palm of your hand. On the front, you have the speaker covered with the grid-panel. On the top, you have a front-facing panel with a power button, two volume buttons, and a next button. On the top is the LED dome that emits lights through the prisms in the dome. On the back, there is the OFF/DEMO/ON button, a Bluetooth connect/disconnect button, an AUX input connection, and a micro USB charge port, with a LED above it which indicates if it is charging or not. The Party On has the classic Ion Audio design, in black matte hard plastic and with reinforced edges of steel.
With any Bluetooth-supported gadget, like a smartphone, tablet or computer, you can play music wirelessly to your Party On. However, if you don't have Bluetooth, or chooses not to use it, you also have the option of connecting with a standards AUX cable, which is universal and will play anything connected into it. The lights will synchronize with the music being played which gives a pretty neat light show in a dark room and definitely adds more fun to the party.
For adults wanting a more powerful speaker system, you should take a look at other Ion Audio reviews we have on this website. Especially the Party Time and Party Rocker Live which also have the LED dome.
However, if you would just like a cool little gadget that plays music and emits light, then this is the perfect product. A great fit for children and teens, and it looks good in any room.
In order to use this for karaoke, just play the karaoke files on a screen (like a TV, computer, tablet, smartphone) and connect the Party On to play the sound (via AUX or Bluetooth), and you get a fancy light show at the same time. A smartphone and the Party On would be a great fully functioning and very portable karaoke system.
Basically, this is a cool gadget that can be used as a speaker to stream music and perform a light show, to sing karaoke with another device, or just to keep around as decoration and a fun device in your home, the Ion Audio Party On does the job.
See other Bluetooth karaoke machines.


text:
Q: How do I add a second key to my Matplotlib scatter plot? I have a Matplotlib scatter plot in which point markers vary by to attributes, shape and color, depending on the values of two attributes associated with the point ("Net Size" and "Batch Size" respectively), but using legend I can only seem to get a key for the first attribute:

How do I add a second key for the color (as a function of "Batch Size")? In fact, I'd also like the have the existing key just distinguish shape (no color), if that can be accomplished. I'm also happy to replace the colors with some (potentially more informative) grayscale or spectrum.

import matplotlib.pyplot as plt

batch_color_specs = ['r', 'm', 'b', 'y', 'g', 'k']
batch_sizes = [10, 20, 40, 80, 100, 200]

# Data below
fig, ax = plt.subplots()
for net_size, net_size_mark, net_size_alpha in zip([30, 60, 100], ['s', 'o', '^'], [0.3, 1.0, 0.3]) :
    ax.scatter([plateau[str(net_size)][str(bs)][1] for bs in batch_sizes],
               [plateau[str(net_size)][str(bs)][2] for bs in batch_sizes],
               c=batch_color_specs, marker=net_size_mark, s=50, edgecolors='none', alpha=net_size_alpha,
               label=str(net_size))
plt.xlabel('time (s)')
plt.ylabel('accuracy (%)')
plt.legend(bbox_to_anchor=(1.05, 1), loc=2, borderaxespad=0., frameon=False, title='Net Size')
plt.show()

plateau = {}
plateau['30'] = {
    '10':  (80.3961 ,  45.0351 ,  96.1100,   20),
    '20': (132.0082 ,  57.7471 ,  96.4600,   42),
    '40': (129.4380 ,  44.1056 ,  96.1500,   49),
    '80': (120.6937 ,  35.7472 ,  95.5400,   49),
    '100': (173.8619 ,  48.9901 ,  95.8900,   71),
    '200': (191.5136 ,  57.8109 ,  95.2600,   76)}
plateau['60'] = {
     '10': (133.2443 ,  80.0031 ,  97.1900,   25),
     '20': (165.0099 ,  77.2276 ,  97.2400,   41),
     '40': (205.8393 ,  78.1126 ,  96.9700,   60),
     '80': (154.8232 ,  49.9324 ,  96.7100,   49),
    '100': (222.3961 ,  68.9063 ,  97.0500,   72),
    '200': (290.0711 ,  88.5366 ,  96.2300,   94)}
plateau['100'] = {
     '10': (177.3463 , 111.3308 ,  97.7300,   24),
     '20': (234.5564 , 117.5112 ,  97.7900,   42),
     '40': (162.1202 ,  65.7477 ,  97.3500,   35),
     '80': (247.8064 ,  87.5982 ,  97.3800,   59),
    '100': (243.6714 ,  82.2312 ,  97.2100,   60),
    '200': (420.6481 , 139.7030 ,  96.9800,  105)}

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


Explore and discover new ways to manage, deliver and present data through SharePoint that is engaging and visually stunning.
Whether it is an upgrade or migration we follow a comprehensive discovery and planning process ensuring a smooth delivery.
We have the specialist knowledge and practical experience to develop custom components and applications to meet your business challenges.
Well defined governance ensures that SharePoint solutions are used to their full potential in a more productive way.
Understanding how employees manage, find, classify and collaborate is part of the journey into solving problems faster.
Increase productivity , enable clear communications and improve business efficiences through intuitive solutions.
To ensure adoption and longevity of the platform an investment needs to be inplace to the team and technology.
Continous improvement and management of SharePoint through an effecitively managed dedicated team.
Mackay Sugar is a well known brand in Australia for its raw and refined sugar, molasses and renewable energy. With over 140 years'experience Mackay Sugar is a trusted brand and as part of the digital brand initiative a requirement was to review and update their digital presence.
As part of the initiative the Mackay Sugar site was re-engineered from the ground up including custom design, site features, content review and population, site architecture, system management.
Don't take our word for it, see what our clients have to say. We work with some great Australian and international brands, fostering ongoing partnerships to deliver some really cool projects.
John and his team at JCH Media have been an invaluable SharePoint resource for WorkPac. They regularly deliver high quality work and are always willing to accommodate our (Sometimes wild) requests. JCH have done a broad-range of SharePoint work for WorkPac including an Intranet re-design and other custom 'in house' SharePoint apps. We have previously sourced SharePoint resources elsewhere and we couldn't speak more highly of the work that JCH media have done for us.
With the leadership and expertise of JCH Media, Lives Lived Well now have a very user friendly, flexible and functional SharePoint Intranet platform, hosted in O365. All the technicalities of the development, administration and migration of the site have been taken care of very smoothly by JCH. They have put together a greatly improved look-and-feel in line with the Lives Lived Well branding and developed workflows and extra features to make traditional email approval processes easier for everyone. Thank you.
We have been using JCH Media for a number of years for our business and project website requirements. They have always provided us with a high quality 'no hassles' service that is tailored to our needs. I would confidently recommend them.
A big thankyou to John and his team at JCH Media. The team sat down with us, listened to the industry specific requirements and where able to come back with a website that really suited our business. Thanks again for enabling us to be one step ahead of our competitors!
Its always a pleasure working with John and the team. Our intranet system was delivered on time and on budget, hassle free. There dedication, knowledge and attention to detail is why we keep engaging JCH Media.


Sleep Less. Read More.: In Which A Girl Reads Giveaway!
In Which A Girl Reads now has over 400 followers, so Choco is doing an international giveaway!
2. You must fill out the form (there is a link to the form on the original post). Comment entries will not count.
3. If you win, the book you pick has to cost under $20.
The contest ends on March 6th at 11 p.m. EST.
hey miss molly, you have an award @ my blog!


The X15 for Stage V applications will retain the same DPF-SCR aftertreatment system in order to provide ongoing installation continuity for OEMs in higher-output, more specialised machines.
The EGR-free X15 lowers heat rejection by over 40 percent compared with that of engines using cooled EGR. The X15 carries forward to Stage V certification with no modification required to the existing engine architecture – leading the way for other Stage V designs.


What sort of website name is hedjumacation?
who have shaped my own development over the years.
It's a tricky thing, deciding on a website name that conveys your full intentions for your website. This website was begun towards the end of 2007), and after such a lengthy time, your imagination does start to get a little unruly.
Names I'd like would turn up associated online connotations that were entirely distasteful, or an idea that at first seemed to have merit would end up sounding pompous or twee. We certainly didn't want to represent ourselves as having the be-all and end-all knowledge on the subject of home education – it's far too vast a topic for any such proclamation.
'Hedjumacation' appealed, because as I played with it, it took on a meaning that was particularly relative to the intentions of this website.
So, with a little (okay, a copious amount of) creative etymological license, 'hedjumacation' in the context of this website could be said to be the action or instance of causing education to be in the best interests of the child, the primary educator and all the family, at home in the ACT.
Ultimately, 'hedjumacation' has held enduring appeal because, like home education, it's personal.
When I was growing up, I knew a number of gracious older folk who, if they discerned that others were suggesting they were lacking a proper education in some way, would joke about a bit, saying that they "didn't get no proper hedjumacation". Really the joke was on the accuser more than the accused, because these were, without fail, highly intelligent and well educated people, though their schooling was usually not at the hands of any formal system.
These are the people I've longed to imitate in my life. These are the people whose courage, character and common sense, alongside their intelligence and learning, I have considered most worthy of emulation.
When we elect to take personal responsibility for our children's education, becoming home educators, we must bring all of ourselves to the experience, including our ability to laugh at ourselves and not take things too seriously.
So – while home education itself is a serious responsibility to take on, our name (hedjumaction) serves to remind us of the personal pursuit of learning, as well as the need to stay light hearted in the midst our endeavours.
May you find the journey rewarding, and your children benefit throughout their lives from your personal involvement in this vital area of their development.
to make a point without drawing blood.


text:
Q: WCF service Subscribers not raising Faulted event I have a simple WCF service serving up notifications to and from an app.
the service holds a static list of subscribers, and before it tries to send a message to any of them, it checks ...
((ICommunicationObject)callback).State == CommunicationState.Opened

unfortunately if the app consuming the WCF service falls over - thus not unsubscribing itself from the WCF service, the service will hang around and eventually timeout. far from ideal.
in an attempt to sort this I added
OperationContext.Current.Channel.Faulted += new EventHandler(Channel_Faulted);

in the subscription method, but it is never hit.
is there a reliable way to determine whether or not the callback channel is in fact open?
or maybe to asynchronously send the messages so that if a subscriber appears in the list but is actually dead, the service wont wait around like a geek being stood up on a date? :)
any help most happily received
thanks
nat
full code for service below...
private static readonly List<INotificationCallback> subscribers = new List<INotificationCallback>();

    public void AddMessage(string SendingUser, string message, List<string> users, MessageType messageType, Guid? CaseID)
    {

        subscribers.ForEach(delegate(INotificationCallback callback)
        {

            if (((ICommunicationObject)callback).State == CommunicationState.Opened)
            {
                callback.OnMessageAdded(SendingUser, message, users, messageType, DateTime.Now, CaseID);
            }
            else
            {
                RemoveSubscriber(callback);
            }
        });
    }

    public bool Subscribe()
    {
        try
        {
            INotificationCallback callback = OperationContext.Current.GetCallbackChannel<INotificationCallback>();
            OperationContext.Current.Channel.Faulted += new EventHandler(Channel_Faulted);
            OperationContext.Current.Channel.Closed += new EventHandler(Channel_Closed);
            if (!subscribers.Contains(callback))
                subscribers.Add(callback);
            return true;
        }
        catch
        {
            return false;
        }
    }

    private void RemoveSubscriber(INotificationCallback callback)
    {
        if (subscribers.Contains(callback))
            subscribers.Remove(callback);
    }

    void Channel_Closed(object sender, EventArgs e)
    {
        INotificationCallback machine = sender as INotificationCallback;
        RemoveSubscriber(machine);
    }

    void Channel_Faulted(object sender, EventArgs e)
    {
        INotificationCallback machine = sender as INotificationCallback;
        RemoveSubscriber(machine);
    }

    public bool Unsubscribe()
    {
        try
        {
            INotificationCallback callback = OperationContext.Current.GetCallbackChannel<INotificationCallback>();
            RemoveSubscriber(callback);
            return true;
        }
        catch
        {
            return false;
        }
    }

A: ended up ditching the HttpBinding and switched to NetTcpBinding which raises the the fault event immediately.


The following are step-by-step instructions for installing Classic ONA(OnaData) on an Ubuntu 16.04 machine.
Tools and software to be used in the CTLGH Bioinformatics workshop from Feb 13-17.
I am oguya on github.
I am oguya (https://keybase.io/oguya) on keybase.


text:
Southeast Roseau is an unorganized territory in Roseau County, Minnesota, United States. The population was 229 at the 2000 census.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the unorganized territory has a total area of 179.2 square miles (464.3 km2); 178.8 square miles (463.2 km2) is land and 0.4 square mile (1.1 km2) (0.23%) is water.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 229 people, 87 households, and 62 families residing in the unorganized territory.  The population density was 1.3 people per square mile (0.5/km2).  There were 107 housing units at an average density of 0.6/sq mi (0.2/km2).  The racial makeup of the unorganized territory was 98.69% White, 0.87% Native American, 0.44% from other races.

There were 87 households, out of which 39.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 64.4% were married couples living together, 3.4% had a female householder with no husband present, and 28.7% were non-families. 21.8% of all households were made up of individuals, and 6.9% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older.  The average household size was 2.63 and the average family size was 3.11.

In the unorganized territory the population was spread out, with 28.4% under the age of 18, 4.4% from 18 to 24, 32.8% from 25 to 44, 27.1% from 45 to 64, and 7.4% who were 65 years of age or older.  The median age was 38 years. For every 100 females, there were 114.0 males.  For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 118.7 males.

The median income for a household in the unorganized territory was $49,211, and the median income for a family was $48,487. Males had a median income of $38,333 versus $30,298 for females. The per capita income for the unorganized territory was $18,263.  About 5.1% of families and 2.2% of the population were below the poverty line, including none of those under the age of 18 or 65 or over.

References

Populated places in Roseau County, Minnesota
Unorganized territories in Minnesota

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


World we have accidentally ordered is a series of blog posts about the current state of things and ideas on how to fix this mess.
it will dramatically save loads of time on the phone confirming details such as date of birth and all the other pointless yet widely publicly available answers to "security questions" like DOB and address.
Sometimes you get through to a person and they ask you what your query is anyway!
What is the point half of the time?
Hello, welcome to blah, do you wish to discuss the number you are calling from?
And what is the PIN number?
Everytime: Hi you're through to X sorry I don't see your details through the call, can you reconfirm them?
There are examples of great orgs/companies that provide an outstanding 24/7 service like Metro Bank, no spill over to out of hours teams or call centres outside the UK who have limited access to records.
What is the issue with outsourced call centres?
However there are some call centre teams that don't have access to the records which is pretty ridiculous.
I propose out of hours teams are trained to service the usual customer service queries.


In order to write a review on digital sheet music you must first have purchased the item. Mix - Take Five Dave Brubeck Saxophone Sheet Music YouTube;. This page vocalise has collections of music for clarinet ( with piano in some alto cases organ in one) collections of clarinet duets. I' m playing against Eugene Rousseau' s rendition from his ' Saxophone Vocalise ' CD of 1995. 14 ( Alto Sax & Piano). 50 - Serge Rachmaninoff' s celebrated Vocalise Opus 34 No. Vocalise - Saxophone Quartet sheet music - soprano saxophone / alto saxophone / tenor saxophone / baritone saxophone sheet music by Sergei Rachmaninoff: Bravo Music. This item includes: PDF ( digital sheet music to download print), transposition , printing), Interactive Sheet Music alto ( for online playing, MIDI Mp3 audio files*. About " Vocalise" High quality Digital sheet music for piano, fingerings included.
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Yesterday one of my instructors gave me Heiden' s " Diversion" for alto sax and band to start working on. I' m playing against Eugene Rousseau' s rendition from his ' Saxophone Vocalise' CD of 1995. 7 more: Piano Score ( Clarinet, in C and D minor) • Piano Score ( Soprano, Tenor sax) • Piano Score ( Alto, Baritone sax) • Flute or Oboe • Clarinet ( in C and D minor) • Soprano, Tenor sax • Alto, Baritone sax. Saxophone Vocalise. Buy CD or download online. Eugene Rousseau ( saxophone), Winds of Indiana, Frederick Fennell.
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[Updated November 2017] When your car or truck battery is dead and you need to give it a jump start, there is not always another vehicle available to use. Battery jump starters allow you to jump start your vehicle quickly and easily on your own. We researched the most popular jump starters from a variety of sources to find the best choices. We take actual customer reviews and ratings into account along with other data to create this buying guide.
We gave our highest rating to the jump starters on Amazon to a model by Jump-N-Carry. Following closely behind are two units from NOCO's Genius line. Another high performing model in our ranking is offered by Gooloo. The middle of our top ten list on Amazon is taken up by jump starters from Stanley and Antigravity Batteries. Rounding out our Amazon list are models from DBPower, Anker and another from Gooloo.
Of the car and truck jump starters at Advance Auto Parts, we gave the best ranking to a unit from Schumacher. They also took our next two slots on our top ten list with other models. After that is a jump starter from Wagan, and two units from Cal Van. The remainder of our list of the best jump starters at Advance Auto are several more models offered by Schumacher.
When choosing a jump starter, be sure to check the specifications to make sure it will work with your type of vehicle. The models we researched varied in the type of output and additional features. We weighed customer recommendations along with data about which were the best selling as well as other information to create this buying guide.


text:
Wix will offer gift cards and store create solutions after Rise.ai acquisition Wix eCommerce loyalty solution
Leading website builder Wix is taking a stab at customer re-engagement solutions for its online brands after acquiring gift card and store credit solution provider Rise.ai for an undisclosed sum.
Wix is now hoping to extend its eCommerce platform to offer a full solution of merchants to manage customer re-engagement activities.
Specifically, the new offering, which will be available in all Wix's supported countries and currencies, will be aimed as increasing customer spending and repurchasing in areas including gift cards, loyalty programs, rewards and referrals.
Speaking on the acquisition and what it will mean for the Wix platform going forward, David Schwartz, VP of Product at Wix told TechRadar Pro that the company had looked at many products offering similar services but felt that Rise.ai was the best on the market right now.
"Our goal behind this was to create the best customer retention eCommerce platform that is out there," Schwartz added.
"We have been working with Rise.ai so closely, which will enable us to integrate their solution seamlessly into our system. It will eventually not be a plugin but will be part of our eCommerce product."
eCommerce via Wix
The Wix eCommerce platform provides merchants with a full solution to create and manage their eCommerce business to sell online and in person.
This means merchants have the ability to sell through multiple sales channels including web and mobile storefronts, social media, online marketplaces and physical retail locations.
Arik Perez, Head of Wix eCommerce said: "We are excited to expand our offering and services as part of the Wix eCommerce strategy.
"By providing merchants with more native tools, we can help them grow long-term customer value and revenues to build their businesses and keep optimizing and increasing profitability.
"Rise.ai is considered to be the best solution of its kind in the market, and the integration will enable merchants to easily manage and maintain customer engagement tools, ultimately leading to increased loyalty and revenue."


text:
Mets And Wilpons: A Longer Stay For Sure
February 7, 2020 8:28 PM·
By Rich Mancuso/ Sports Editor
So what was going to happen was not with the Mets. The Wilpons sale to Steve Cohen is no more and the questions will continue as to why this deal went the other way.
You see, deals like this are difficult to understand. You put a billionaire hedge funder, Cohen, to the front. And then there are Fred and Jeff Wilpon, who would be in the outfield and looking in within five years.
Of course as of now, a sale of the Mets is a dead issue. The Wilpons will be at Citi Field Opening Day, March 26th. Steve Cohen, with his money, a long time Mets fan, will be among the fans in the seats.
So, Cohen, took off on his yacht and left from Flushing Bay. The Wilpons, they will remain in control and seek another way to sell their interest with the Mets.
But, as one insider said Thursday, "Take away the Mets from Jeff Wilpon and he will be a lost puppy."
According to that insider, Fred, the elder statesman, could go either way with this. Jeff, with his proficiency to be hated by Mets fans, well he is their biggest fan, He has a difficult time with that inevitable point of no longer having control.
And my friends this is about control. Take away the Mets from Jeff Wilpon, he is that lost puppy.
Have we not seen this mess more than once with the Wilpons ? It's becoming old news in their so-called quest to sell shares or a majority of them to an outsider.
So, Fred and Jeff Wilpon, Saul Katz, and those in the hierarchy are making the Democrats in Iowa look like wizards. The Mets move on and prepare for the start of the season in 49 days.
MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred, would not fault the Wilpons. And, despite reports, Steve Cohen had minimal influence in day-to-day operations with the Mets.
Could have been another few years before Cohen's 80 percent and $2.6 billion had any influence on spending. But now it's back to square one for the Wilpons.
And the prevailing questions, if you can get the answers, do the Wilpons want to sell as part of their Sterling corporation?
"Sterling intends now to pursue a new transaction and has engaged & Company to manage that process." a statement released by the Mets Thursday afternoon.
Believe the statement if you desire. And any impending sale is not happening anytime soon. This is a process and Major League Baseball is very involved and the proper foundation must be in place.
Steve Cohen, unless a deal can be restructured, he is on the sidelines. "I gave it a shot," he said.
Not what Mets fans wanted to hear Thursday when this all came down. Social media was buzzing and fans wanted the Wilpons to go. They want an owner who will spend. They want to see that balance go their way when competing with the cross-town Yankees for the big time player.
But, they have to wait. And this time the wait for their dream to rid the Wilpons of control could continue for another five years, because this is how long it takes to assume control of a Major League Baseball franchise.
This is not like purchasing real estate, a new car, or winning the lottery.
Then again, these are the New York Mets and a team with two new managers in a span of three months. Mets fans will say their team never gets anything right and all they want is a winning team.
Enough to digest the past few months with Carlos Beltran here and gone, and Luis Rojas an immediate replacement as the manager. Time to move on and get ready for pitchers and catchers in a few days down in Port St. Lucie.
That is the emphasis for GM Brodie Van Wegenen, manager Luis Rojas and his coaching staff.
Nothing has changed at Citi Field. Front office and Citi Field personnel are going about their business and preparing for Opening Day.
But one thing is certain, the Wilpons are still in control of the Mets. And they are not going on that yacht out of Flushing Bay anytime soon.
Comment: Ring786@aol.com Twitter @Ring786 Facebook.com/Rich Mancuso
Mets Make Coaching Changes Coppola: Where Will Your Team Stand In October? The Mets turnaround NoT Time For Mets To Stop Getting Timely Hits
Tags: Fred Wilpon, Jeff Wilpon, Mets, MLB
Author: Rich Mancuso Rich has covered countless New York Mets and Yankees games along with some of the greatest boxing matches over the years. His award winning sports column has been in the Bronx News (which recently folded) for 28 years. Mancuso also has been a sports journalist for the Associated Press, New York Daily News, Gannett Westchester newspapers, Boxing Digest Magazine, The Sports Network and Latinosports.com. Bronxites will recall that Rich once hosted a sports talk television program, "Bronx Scoreboard" on Bronxnet Television. In addition, Mancuso recently concluded a four-year run hosting a sports talk program on the Whitney Broadcasting Network station WVOX.


text:
Saquon Barkley Fantasy Football Outlook 2018
By Mitchell Renz
The 2018 fantasy football hype around Saquon Barkley isn't a bunch of malarkey. In fact, I've never scouted a running back that possesses the amount of talent Barkley has.
Saquon Barkley Fantasy 2018
Saquon Barkley is 6-foot tall, weighs 233 pounds and ran a 4.41 40-yard dash. On the bench press, he flexed his muscles with 29 reps, then showed his leg explosion with a 41 inch vertical and his quickness with a 4.24 20-yard shuttle. These metrics are why his SPARQ (Speed. Power. Agility. Reaction. Quickness) score is in the 99th percentile.
Barkley had an incredible junior season at Penn State where he touted the rock 217 times for 1,217 yards, 18 touchdowns and added 54 receptions for 632 yards and three touchdowns as a receiver. His production on the field is obviously impressive, but his performance at the NFL scouting combine is a major reason why the Giants selected him second overall in the 2018 NFL Draft.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9XREw_wafxI
Metrics and college production is excellent but why should you get excited about him for 2018? Well for starters a rookie running back has led the NFL in rushing the last two seasons (Ezekiel Elliott in 2016 with 1,631 and Kareem Hunt in 2017 with 1,327), and Barkley finds himself in a favorable fantasy situation. I know it's hard to believe me considering the Giants running backs combined haven't scored more than six rushings touchdowns in a single year the past three seasons. Plus the last three seasons the Giants haven't ranked high in rush attempts:
2017: 394 attempts – 25th in the NFL
2016: 398 attempts – 22nd in the NFL
But this year is different because the Giants finally have a workhorse running back that they invested high draft capital into. With high draft capital comes a change, and I believe that change is extra rushing attempts. I went back and looked at the last five teams to select a running back in the top 10 picks of the NFL Draft and see how it impacted their play calling.
The Jacksonville Jaguars selected Leonard Fournette 4th overall in the 2017 NFL Draft and went from 392 carries in 2016 to 527 in 2017, which is a 34.4% increase.
The Carolina Panthers selected Christian McCaffrey 8th overall in the 2017 NFL Draft and went from 453 carries in 2016 to 490 in 2017, which is an 8.6% increase.
The Dallas Cowboys selected Ezekiel Elliott 4th overall in the 2016 NFL Draft and went from 408 carries in 2015 to 499 in 2016, which is a 22.3% increase.
The St. Louis Rams selected Todd Gurley 10th overall in the 2015 NFL Draft and went from 395 carries in 2014 to 429 in 2015, which is an 8.6% increase.
The only team amongst the five that didn't have an increase in carries was the Cleveland Browns who selected Trent Richardson 3rd overall in the 2012 NFL Draft. They went from 415 carries in 2011 to 396 in 2012 which was a 4.6% decrease. I'm confident in saying Barkley is not the next Trent Richardson.
When you put all the percentages together it comes out to a 13.8% increase in rushing attempts. So to get an idea of how many rush attempts the Giants will have in 2018 I took the average attempts of the Giants the last three years (398.3) and multiplied it by a 13.8% increase. This spit out a number of 453 rushing attempts which would have ranked the Giants 9th in the NFL in 2017.
How many of those carries will be Barkley is the more important question. Considering his skill set I predict Barkley to get around 60% of the Giants carries in 2018 which is a fair number considering the Giants offensive makeup. For comparison, Ezekiel Elliott received 65% of the Cowboys team carries in 2016 and Leonard Fournette received 51% as a rookie. If the Giants run the ball 453 times and Barkley gets 60% of the carries this puts Barkley at around 272 carries in 2018. But as I stated before Barkley is also a great pass catcher, so how many receptions will he have in 2018? Well let's start with the Giants running back targets the last three years:
That's an average of 127 targets a game to the running backs and I expect Barkley to get about half of them considering the Giants do have some reliable pass-catching running backs. So the number I'll throw out there is 64 targets for Barkley in 2018 which is one more than Kareem Hunt had last season for the Chiefs. Now, how many of those will he catch? I think a safe catch rate for a player of Barkley's skill set is 70%, which is exactly the same catch rate of Todd Gurley in 2017. That would put Barkley around 45 receptions.
So my May projection for Barkley right now is for him to see around 317 touches. How does that compare to 2017? Check out a tweet from my personal account @MitchellRenz365 below:
My Saquon Barkley 2018 touch projections – 317
RB Touch Leaders in 2017:
1) Le'Veon Bell 406
2) LeSean Mccoy 346
3) Todd Gurley 343
4) Melvin Gordon 342
5) Kareem Hunt 325
6) Leonard Fournette 304
7) Jordan Howard 299
8) Carlos Hyde 298#FantasyFootball 🏈 pic.twitter.com/VwZx014Qux
— Raiders Report Mitchell Renz (@MitchellRenz365) May 13, 2018
Saquon Barkley 2018
When looking at any player especially the incoming rookies, I try and project touches not touchdowns. It's a more effective way to predict a players fantasy value. Barkley right now is the no doubt 1.01 pick in rookie drafts and he is my RB 6 in redraft leagues. The Giants should be much better on offense with a better offensive line after signing Nate Solder this offseason and investing in Will Hernandez in the 2018 NFL Draft. Plus the second year for tight end Evan Engram and Sterling Shepard is entering his third year. Oh yeah, and a healthy Odell Beckham Jr. should also help. Defenses won't be able to stack the box against Barkley and he should have a terrific rookie season. You can write this with a sharpie, the number one rookie running back in 2018 will be Saquon Barkley.
[the_ad id="61410″]
Mitchell Renz
Mitchell is working full-time as Senior Writer & On-Air Talent at Chat Sports in Dallas, TX. Mitchell is a Head Writer at Gridiron Experts and Co-Host of the Empire Fantasy Podcast. He also is a featured fantasy writer for the Fantasy Footballers and FantasyPros. Mitchell has a Ph.D. in Fantasy Football so give him a follow on Twitter @MitchellRenz365.
Related Items:Saquon Barkley
2020 Fantasy Football First-Round Mock Draft
Semi-Final Fantasy Football Bold Predictions
How High Will Saquon Barkley Get Drafted?


text:
namespace chrono {
namespace vehicle {

ChDriveline::ChDriveline(const std::string& name) : ChPart(name) {}

ChDriveline::~ChDriveline() {
    if (!m_driveshaft)
        return;
    auto sys = m_driveshaft->GetSystem();
    if (sys) {
        sys->RemoveShaft(m_driveshaft);
    }
}

void ChDriveline::InitializeInertiaProperties() {
    m_mass = 0;
    m_inertia = ChMatrix33<>(0);
    m_com = ChFrame<>();
    m_xform = ChFrame<>();
}

void ChDriveline::UpdateInertiaProperties() {}

}  // end namespace vehicle
}  // end namespace chrono

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


Silver Cross Wave Carrycot, for use with the Wave pushchair, is suitable up to 6 months old and for overnight sleeping. A good roomy carrycot that comes with a deep padded mattress so baby is totally comfy while sleeping. The anti-bacterial bamboo fabric lining naturally helps with keeping baby's temperature regulated. A full-sized carrycot with full ventilation and a good robust shell for plenty of protection.