text:
Igor Panarine, né le , est un politologue (docteur en science politique) et essayiste russe, doyen de l'Académie diplomatique du ministère des Affaires étrangères de la Fédération de Russie.

Déclarations
En , alors qu'il est porte-parole de l'Agence Spatiale Fédérale Russe, Igor Panarine déclare à la RIA Novosti que la chanteuse américaine Madonna pourrait être envoyée sur la Station spatiale internationale (ISS) en 2009, faisant suite à la demande formulée par cette dernière.

Il est l'auteur d'une théorie schématisant la désintégration des États-Unis et leur absorption par leurs voisins. En , il publie son nouveau livre dans lequel il affirme que « la probabilité que les États-Unis cesseront d'exister en  est supérieure à 50% ». La décadence morale (violence, prisons, homosexualité, ...) serait la cause de la « catastrophe psychologique » imminente qui guetterait la société américaine. Il défend cette thèse depuis 2000, mais celle-ci ne commence à susciter l'attention du public qu'après la crise financière de 2008.

Œuvres
 Psychological security of the army, Moscow, 1996
 Psychological aspects of ensuring the national security of Russia, Moscow, 1995 (part I), 1996 (part II)
 Information warfare and Russia, School aid of the Diplomatic Academy of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, 2000,  (at Google Books)
 Information warfare and authority, Security World, 2001,
 Information. Diplomacy. Psychology, Izvestia, 2002,
 Information warfare technology, KSP+, 2003,
 Information warfare and the world, OLMA-Press, 2003,   (at Google Books)
 Information warfare and elections, Gorodets, 2003,   (at Google Books)
 Information warfare: victory in Bashkiria, Gorodets, 2004,
 Information warfare and diplomacy, Gorodets, 2004,
 Information warfare and the Third Rome, Cyril and Methodius, 2005, on-line book,
 Information warfare, PR, and the world politics, Hotline – Telecom, 2006,
 Information warfare and geopolitics, Generation, 2006,   (at Google Books)
 Information warfare for the future of Russia, Hotline – Telecom, 2008,

Notes et références

Articles connexes
 Littérature russe, Liste d'auteurs russophones

Liens externes

 Panarin.com 2.0
 Site officiel d'Igor Panarine
 Les séminaires d'Igor Panarine

Naissance en octobre 1958
Essayiste russe
Politologue russe
Personnalité du KGB

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


Social Media Marketing is a must, but which platform is right for your business?
With the new Vero Social Media platform hitting the headlines this week, it seems a good time to answer the question; How do you choose the best platform for your business?
We could add Snapchat to the list but at this stage is it still not a platform highly utilised by kiwi businesses. Connect with us if you want more detail on Snapchat marketing.


text:
Boney James – Contact
Boney James dislikes labels and refuses any and all of them. "In fact, I have never thought of myself as a 'jazz' artist specifically," he says.
Of course, this statement may serve as a source of confusion for the musician's legion of fans that have scooped up over 3 million copies of his twelve albums (with eight of them going to No. 1 on the Billboard Contemporary Jazz Chart). It also may seem contradictory to the respected opinions of music critics who consider him one of the most influential jazz artists of his generation. Billboard Magazine even named him "The No. 3 Top Contemporary Jazz Artist of the Decade."
Even so, Boney James, who has four Gold albums, three Grammy® nominations, a Soul Train Award and an NAACP Award nomination to his credit, says, "I am just a saxophone player whose music has several different influences. Jazz is only one of them."
His newest CD Contact — completely produced, arranged and co-written by James — is driven by the signature soulful grooves the world has come to expect from him, but with an added intensity. "I felt really inspired putting together the arrangements and producing the record," he says. "There are a lot of things happening right now in modern music. The title, in one sense, refers to me reaching across genres and creating music that I believe is relevant and fresh."
This incredibly accomplished artist — who broke into music in the mid-80s touring with acts such as The Isley Brothers, Morris Day (The Time), Randy Crawford and Teena Marie, and emerged as a solo force in 1992 with his breakthrough debut, Trust — has long been influenced by contemporary R&B. Continue reading →
Boney James
Bryant Thompson – Puzzle Pieces
You can read the full biography of New Jersey born Bryant Thompson on his excellent website. I'm going to ask you to do just that because I want to get on and talk about what's on the latest disc from this astonishing composer/musician/producer – "Puzzle Pieces"
I'm already hooked by the easy but relentless groove of 'Movado'. The bass just does its thing while a muted trumpet doubles the piano. Touches of percussion and some nice synthesizer washes combine with the solid groove and melody to draw you in. Oh wow!
'Reflections of Time' is a slower piece, using the muted trumpet in a different way for dramatic effect. The Latin feel to this track comes from the deft rimshots and some subtle acoustic guitar. There are some keyboard touches in here that remind me of some of my favourite contemporary jazz from the late 90's. The whole arrangement is fabulous, I have to say, with nothing that needs to be added or removed.
Bryant Thompson
Yellowjackets – Timeline
When a favorite band goes more than a year without a recording, fans get anxious. And when a new release is finally available, there's joy.
Listeners in the world of the Yellowjackets are rejoicing with the release of Timeline (Mack Avenue, 2011), their first since Lifecycle (Heads Up, 2008). And to no one's surprise, the group is in top form.
The ensemble began as the Robben Ford Group, led by guitarist Robben Ford, and featuring bassist Jimmy Haslip and pianist/keyboardist Russell Ferrante. However, the group's preference of instrumental music over pop vocals ultimately led to the birth of the Yellowjackets. Over the ensuing years, there have been many personnel changes. Haslip and Ferrante remain, with Bob Mintzer being the group's saxophonist since 1990.
Timeline not only celebrates the group's 30 years but also welcomes the return of drummer Will Kennedy. Ford appears on one track.
Yellowjackets
Plunky – On Fire
J. Plunky Branch's new release, Plunky On Fire, is a funk jazz concept album that burns across a wide swath of the urban contemporary music landscape. Plunky On Fire takes us on a musical journey through down-tempo funk jazz; house-tempo dance; R&B love songs; spoken word; smooth mellow jazz; novelty funk; world soul message music; live gig clips and thought leader lecturing, all on one chockfull compact disc.
Saxophonist J. Plunky Branch and his group Plunky & Oneness create musical theater that combines the quirkiness of George Clinton and the musicality of George Duke with the vocal poetics of Jill Scott and Gil Scott Heron. Plunky's words and melodies are crafted over hip-hop influenced instrumental tracks produced by his son, Jamiah "Fire" Branch, hence the double entendre CD title.
The father-son duo has produced an album of 14 new songs that are both retro and ultramodern, a new organic-techno soul music that is jazzy, funky and highly danceable. Two songs are targeted for initial airplay: "On Fire," a hot, sax driven dance instrumental with a vocal hook; and "Inside These Walls" a quiet storm love song featuring Chyp Green on lead vocals.
Released on his own N.A.M.E. Brand Records label, this, Plunky's 25th album, will be available at CDBaby.com and all the most popular online sites, including i-tunes, Rhapsody and Napster. CD's will be distributed to record stores by Liaison Record Distributors of Maryland. The March 29th release date also kicks off the Plunky & Oneness promotional touring in support of the new CD.
Plunky & Oneness is one of the most versatile and enduring funk jazz groups, having toured in the Mid-Atlantic region of the US, in Europe, Africa and the Caribbean for over 25 years. They have appeared in concert and at festivals with some of the biggest names in Black music, including Earth Wind & Fire, Frankie Beverly & Maze, B.B. King, Patti Labelle, Ray Charles, LL Cool J, Chuck Brown, Wyclef Jean and many others.
Plunky has also been active in music education and arts and culture presentations and some of his insights on aesthetics and African concepts of the groove are presented as interludes on the album. His positive empowerment and political messages are infused in the lyrics of several of the songs as well. He comments, "I just think it's important to inspire people to reach for their highest aspirations and I believe it can be done while we're having fun; what some call partying with a purpose."
Plunky On Fire presents R&B as art music and this concept extends to the CD cover as well. The original portrait of Plunky on the front was painted by French artist, Dan Brussat; and the inside photograph taken at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts was shot by the design and layout artist, Danja Mowf. On this album the music and the art are hot like fire…now at CDBaby.
Plunky
Planet Zu (Featuring Dan Baraszu) – In The Light Of Day
Planet Zu is the brainchild of guitarist/composer Dan Baraszu in collaboration with some of the finest musicians in the southeast. The instrumentation is Nylon Electric Guitar, Acoustic Guitar, Hammond A-100 Organ, Electric Bass and Drums. Though labeled a "contemporary Jazz" group, Planet Zu's music is the amalgamation of jazz, funk, rock, acoustic, pop, jam-band and fun. The Bands focus is on original material, though they are known for their unique arrangements of some popular cover tunes.
Their album In The Light Of Day combines organic instrumentation with a nujazz feel and is now available at CDBaby.
In The Light Of Day
Planet Zu (Featuring Dan Baraszu)
Larry Carlton – Plays the Sound of Philadelphia
Larry Carlton and his legendary guitar skills are backed by some amazing musicians including Paul Shaffer-organ, Tony DeSare-piano, Tommy Byrnes-rhythm guitar, Christopher Jackson-bass, Bill LaBounty-vocals, Andrea Valentini-drums, Vic Stevenspercussion, Mark Douthit-sax, Darcy Hepner-baritone sax, Steve Guttman-trumpet, Nick Marchione-trumpet, Dave Kirkland-trombone, and Chris Komer-french horn. This line-up brings these timeless classics back to life with a new twist that will make this unique record a must have.
Plays the Sound of Philadelphia is available at Amazon.com.
Plays the Sound of Philadelphia
Will Henry – Jazz And Love-New Music Album
If you love listening to good jazz music as well as love songs that are very well produced, this is a CD album you'll want for sure. The new jazz song "My Time In Memphis" sets the stage for what's to come with this CD. You will also love the ballads "Run To Me" and "I Never Knew" both written and produced by Will Henry. Jazz music is always alive and wonderful and this cd belongs right beside all the new jazz artists as well as some of the crooners of old.
Jazz And Love-New Music Album even has some amazing heart warming love songs performed by some of the finest talent in the world.You will really enjoy this jazz and love cd album. Now available at CDBaby.
Jazz And Love-New Music Album
Will Henry

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


text:
package org.apache.gobblin.runtime.spec_executorInstance;

import java.io.Serializable;
import java.net.URI;
import java.util.List;
import java.util.Map;
import java.util.Properties;
import java.util.concurrent.Future;

import com.google.common.collect.Lists;
import com.google.common.collect.Maps;
import com.typesafe.config.Config;

import org.apache.gobblin.runtime.api.Spec;
import org.apache.gobblin.runtime.api.SpecProducer;
import org.apache.gobblin.util.CompletedFuture;

import lombok.extern.slf4j.Slf4j;

@Slf4j
public class InMemorySpecProducer implements SpecProducer<Spec>, Serializable {
  private final Map<URI, Spec> provisionedSpecs;
  private transient Config config;

  private static final long serialVersionUID = 6106269076155338045L;

  public InMemorySpecProducer(Config config) {
    this.config = config;
    this.provisionedSpecs = Maps.newHashMap();
  }

  @Override
  public Future<?> addSpec(Spec addedSpec) {
    provisionedSpecs.put(addedSpec.getUri(), addedSpec);
    log.info(String.format("Added Spec: %s with Uri: %s for execution on this executor.", addedSpec, addedSpec.getUri()));

    return new CompletedFuture(Boolean.TRUE, null);
  }

  @Override
  public Future<?> updateSpec(Spec updatedSpec) {
    if (!provisionedSpecs.containsKey(updatedSpec.getUri())) {
      throw new RuntimeException("Spec not found: " + updatedSpec.getUri());
    }
    provisionedSpecs.put(updatedSpec.getUri(), updatedSpec);
    log.info(String.format("Updated Spec: %s with Uri: %s for execution on this executor.", updatedSpec, updatedSpec.getUri()));

    return new CompletedFuture(Boolean.TRUE, null);
  }

  @Override
  public Future<?> deleteSpec(URI deletedSpecURI, Properties headers) {
    if (!provisionedSpecs.containsKey(deletedSpecURI)) {
      throw new RuntimeException("Spec not found: " + deletedSpecURI);
    }
    provisionedSpecs.remove(deletedSpecURI);
    log.info(String.format("Deleted Spec with Uri: %s from this executor.", deletedSpecURI));

    return new CompletedFuture(Boolean.TRUE, null);
  }

  @Override
  public Future<? extends List<Spec>> listSpecs() {
    return new CompletedFuture<>(Lists.newArrayList(provisionedSpecs.values()), null);
  }
}

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


text:
Feature: Disabling the disabilities
Disable is a verb which means to weaken or to cause something to be unable to do or work. Disability is a noun which is a condition of being unable or limits a person to do things. Separately, these words may connote negative meanings. But putting these together may implicate otherwise.
Provincial Government of Ifugao (PLGU Ifugao) and the Ifugao Federation of Persons with Disabilities, Inc. (IFPWDI) will show us how.
Taking the first step to self-reliance
The creation of IFPWDI is a result of the aspiration to serve majority of the members of the persons with disability (PWD) sector in Ifugao. In 1992, IFPWDI was formally organized and registered under the Securities and Exchange Commission.
The Federation became guided with the objective to advocate, promote, and protect the welfare and development of the members towards self-reliance. The members aimed to organize or strengthen PWD organizations in the area, as well as establish and maintain their network with other stakeholders. They also planned to implement programs and services for the PWDs, their families and the community, and undertake resource generation activities for the members and the organization. The Federation also wanted to advocate their rights through the representation of PWDs in local bodies, and creation of Office of Persons with Disability Affairs and Provincial/ City/ Municipal Council for the Welfare of Disabled Persons (P/C/MCWDP).
With this, the IFPWDI started to take actions for the realization of their vision of self-reliance.
With a dream to have a sheltered workshop center where PWDs could gather, talk about their concerns, work as a group and market their products, in 1997, the federation made a resolution to former Governor Idelfonso Dulinayan, requesting for a building for the PWDs. In that same year, the proposed project was funded with PhP 1,000,000.00.
Together means a stronger foundation
With strong concern for the disadvantaged sector, the Provincial Government of Ifugao deemed it necessary to mainstream the sector in their community. It designated a strategic location for the Provincial Center for Persons with Disabilities at the front of the Provincial Capitol compound. The center's visibility and accessibility made it an ideal venue for economic undertakings. Currently, the building houses three (3) livelihood activities under the Federation- massage center, May "K" Canteen and May "K" Cooperative.
To further support these, the PLGU Ifugao provided PhP 100,000.00 in 2008 to fund the operation of the canteen. Later in 2010, another PhP 100,000.00 was granted to the cooperative.
Since most of the PWDs in Ifugao have not attended formal education, only .5% were able to finish a college degree, various skills training and leadership seminars were conducted for them. To further encourage them to attend school, Educational Assistance to in-school Persons with Disabilities have also been implemented since 2010. Assistance amounting to around PhP 3,000.00 is given to grantees per semester. In partnership with the Provincial Government, various activities for the PWD sector were conducted which empowered them to participate in community development.
Finding ability in disability
With the sustained effort of the Federation and the PLGU Ifugao, the PWDs in the province are now empowered to avail of their rights and privileges.
Currently, there are five (5) PWDs employed at the May "K" Canteen. These individuals are given the opportunity to access a regular source of income. Persons with visual impairment are also (3) provided with this opportunity since they work as masseurs at the center and earn an average of PhP 4,000.00 every month. This has enabled them to improve the living condition of their families. The PWDs were able to improve their selves in terms of skills and knowledge which gave them a higher sense of self-esteem. Much more than this, they are now seen as an important contributor to the development of their community.
As an all-around worker, Marilyn Tayaban is now able to serve a number of people through the May K Canteen.
Marlyn has an orthopedic impairment, but despite this, she had to deal with a difficult job. "Noon, ako ay naglalako ng mga lutong pagkain kung saan-saan. Isa akong moving canteen", she shared.
But her employment and membership in the Federation made a difference. "Steady na ang income ko ngayon. Bukod dun, bilang member ng federation nakaroon pa ako ng chance na makasama at makakilala ng iba pang kagaya ko na PWD", Marlyn added.
The group is also on its way to operationalizing its cooperative. Preparatory activities such as skills enhancement and capacity building activities are now being projected for the members. "Plano po naming mag-expand pa at magdagdag ng aming mga produkto. Mas marami pang skills enhancement activities ang gusto pa naming maisagawa", Jobal Malinga, IFPWDI Treasurer said.
With the unceasing vision of Ifugao PWDs for self- development, the Provincial Government of Ifugao (PLGU Ifugao) and the Ifugao Federation of Persons with Disabilities, Inc. (IFPWDI) continue to work with various government agencies. Though their journey is far from finished, they have been empowered to disable their disabilities. #DSWD-CAR, SOCIAL MARKETING UNIT, Nerizza Faye G. Villanueva


text:
Home Local News Mine Country 102.1 studios back home in Socorro
Mine Country 102.1 studios back home in Socorro
After a series of unexpected events Mine Country 102.1 owner Steve Edmondson is again operating Socorro's Hometown Station from the home studio on Spring Street where it had run for 3 years from 2014-2017. Having taken a job as athletic director and basketball coach at Emmaus Bible College in Dubuque, IA. Edmondson attempted to sell the station to a local man, only to have that sale fall through. The station went silent in March of 2018 and remained silent for nearly a year because of a failure of the person that was supposed to be purchasing the station to return the station's equipment as he was ordered to do by the court. In March 2019 Edmondson put the station back on air in a limited capacity because of the missing equipment, but in August the station went back to full operations with Edmondson running things from Iowa. Edmondson resigned from the coach/athletic position in April 2019 and worked in a warehouse at night from June 2019 until May 21, 2020 because he ahd his wife, Melissa did not want to their daughter, who is a top level runner, to be separated from her cross country and track coaches and teammates for her senior year. With track season cancelled it was time to move back to Socorro. where their home had never sold. So now Mine Country 102.1 not only is transmitted from Socorro, but is operated from Socorro as well. "Most people would never know the difference of whether it was being operated from Iowa or New Mexico, but it will make life simpler for me and allow closer interaction with the community. It has been difficult because of all of the obstacles that were thrown our way, particularly having to essentially replace every piece of equipment and start from scratch, but we have been able to make it work nonetheless and provide a quality, professionally run station whether it has been from 1300 miles away or within the city limits."
Previous articleJune 6 – This Day in Country Music
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text:
The Inaugural Equity & Diversity Newsletter
The 2016-17 Annual Report of the Division of Institutional Equity & Diversity is now available on the division's website. This publication highlights the division's activities and progress during the past year and provides a preview of programs, workshops, and new initiatives under way for 2017-18.
Copies of the division's annual report are also available in 175 Hurley Administration Building; or contact Christi Hestand at (940) 565-2711 to request a copy be mailed to you.
Read the 2016-17 Annual Report
Student Support Task Force Town Hall: 9/25/17
The Student Support Task Force kicked off the academic year with a Town Hall and Small Group Discussions themed "Inclusion as a Bridge to Student Success." The event featured a panel of students from various backgrounds providing their perspectives on the relationship between inclusion and their own student success, and what inclusion, exclusion, and allyship feels like. Small group discussions facilitated by faculty and staff included sharing of personal experiences, perspectives on opportunities for improvement regarding allyship, diversity, and inclusion efforts, and suggested strategies for addressing areas needing improvement. The event was the first of several planned throughout the year to provide students an opportunity to engage in productive and reflective solution-based dialogue around these topics.
On September 17, 2017 the Pride Alliance led a student delegation in the Dallas Pride Parade. For many students, this year's Dallas Pride was a place for first-time declarations of identity in a large-scale, public, Queer and Trans setting. This marks the Pride Alliance's fourth year marching in Dallas. Pride festivals and marches began in celebration of the riots that took place at the Stonewall Inn, in June, 1969. At Stonewall, Trans women and femmes of Color led protests of ongoing police violence and discrimination they experienced. The University of North Texas Pride Alliance delegation marches every year to honor all Queer and Trans people, particularly Queer and Trans people of Color. Students carried signs stating what pride means to them. Signs ranged from "Black Trans Lives Matter" to "More Pan than Peter, but just as magical!". Because of their public nature, pride parades are sometimes viewed as the epitome of Queer and Trans experience. In the Pride Alliance, we invite the University of North Texas community to see pride parades as a declaration of self-expression; as resistance of violence perpetrated on Queer and Trans people; and as an invitation for people everywhere to open their minds and hearts to the infinite possibilities for gender identity and expression as well as sexual and romantic attraction.
Pride Alliance Trains Campus Community
The Pride Alliance is committed to educating the University of North Texas community on the spectrums of gender, romantic attraction, and sexuality. Training helps participants to expand their understanding of gender and sexuality and equips them with tools to support and advocate for peers and Queer and Trans students. Over the Summer and through the beginning of this year, the Pride Alliance conducted training for more than 600 people from office, groups, and academic classes including Orientation Leaders, University Housing professional and student staff, the Denton Feminist and Queer Collective, the Learning Center student staff, ACCESS Peer Mentors, COMM 4540 - Theories of Sexuality, Denton County Friends of the Family professional staff, University of North Texas Chemistry faculty and staff, University Risk Management, and residents in Rawlins Hall. At the Pride Alliance, we believe that training should be relevant to the context of those being trained. That's why each training involves preparation of scenarios specific to the group we're visiting. Training with the Pride Alliance moves beyond learning how to "say it right" and engages participants in thinking about gender and sexuality in new ways. If you'd like to request training regarding Queer and Trans identity, email us at pridealliance@unt.edu.
Black Student Experience
September 16th marked the kick off of the Multicultural Center's 7th annual Black Student Experience. Over 130 students participated in this weekend long retreat that was created to promote academic success and foster pride among the Black student population at UNT. Students were introduced to leadership development, cultural identity, and team building activities. The following are statements from BSE participants: "BSE was such an amazing and empowering experience. Full of love, support, and truly genuine people. I love my BSE family" "BSE has me so motivated. I feel like I can do anything I set my mind to" "BSE was so great, so glad I had the opportunity to be apart of it and have a family that I can lean on."
Interracial Relationships Panel
In commemoration of the 50th anniversary of Loving v. Virginia, the Office of Diversity and Inclusion along with student group co-sponsors PBSO, LULAC, and NAACP, provided an authentic panel conversation about the happiness and hardships interracial couples face 50 years after interracial marriages were legalized. Before the panel, Shanae Jefferies, Teaching Fellow from the Department of Sociology, provided an interactive historical and statistical context for our discussion.
Being An Immigrant In Modern America
In collaboration with the University Program Council and the Department of Dance & Theatre, Being an Immigrant In Modern America allowed students, faculty, and staff to hear from a panel about the impact immigration has had on families and society overall. Immediately following the panel a spoken word artist, Herrison Chicas, who shared poems and storytelling around immigration.
Hispanic Heritage Month Events
The Division of Institutional Equity and Diversity hosts a number of Heritage Month events throughout the year. This year's Hispanic Heritage Month Events include:
Institutional Climate Survey
The Division of Institutional Equity and Diversity is gearing up for its first sponsored climate survey that will help determine the future direction of diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts. Scheduled for deployment in the spring, the survey will engage all UNT students, faculty, and staff. Stay tuned for more information on this important effort!
Join us for a presentation with author of the chapter "A Latina Testimonio: Challenges as an Academic, Issues of Difference, and a Call for Solidarity with White Female Academics" from Dr. Karen Dace's book Unlikely Allies in the Academy: Women of Color and White Women in the Conversation. Dr. Torres will be joined by colleague Lisa McCarthy to discuss "Creating Space for Difficult Conversations & Opportunities for Cross-Cultural and Cross-Racial Conversations." The event is open to all UNT faculty, staff, students, and administrators and registration is required.
Social Justice and Community Engagement Show
Through a partnership with the Mayborn College of Journalism, the Office of Diversity and Inclusion will premiere its first public affairs show on Denton Community Television in November. The show will highlight UNT speakers addressing topics related to social justice and inclusion, and other UNT town-gown community efforts to create a more equitable and inclusive City of Denton.
Save the Date: 2018 Equity and Diversity Conference
On February 22, 2018, UNT's 2018 Equity and Diversity Conference themed "Access Granted: Building Bridges to Inclusion" will feature keynote speaker Rosa Clemente, 2008 Green Party Vice Presidential candidate, community organizer, and journalist. Interested in presenting a workshop? Becoming a campus sponsor? Attending the conference?
Learn more about the conference
Inclusive Excellence Award Nomination
The Division of Institutional Equity and Diversity will continue the tradition it began last year to present the Inclusive Excellence Award to a UNT department or unit that has made concerted efforts to institutionalize diversity, equity, and inclusion in its programs, policies, practices, and people. The Association of American Colleges and Universities to which the University of North Texas belongs has created a framework for this commitment called Inclusive Excellence. Defined as the "active process through which colleges and universities achieve excellence in learning, teaching, student development, institutional functioning, and engagement in local and global communities," this approach has become a model of connecting educational quality and inclusion efforts for universities across the country. As such, our Division created an Inclusive Excellence Award to recognize units who exemplify these qualities.
Tent Talks on the Library Mall
"Tent Talks" is a new Office of Diversity and Inclusion program that provides our UNT community facilitated space for impromptu dialogue on Library Mall and Discovery Park the first Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday of each month. It also allows our Office to promote Pride Alliance and Multicultural Center semester events. September's "Tent Talk" topics included "What are your views about interracial relationships?" "What are you positive, negative and/or neutral thoughts about religion?" and " What are the societal challenges of immigrants in America?"
Men of Color Cohorts
The statistics surrounding the persistence and graduation rates of men of color show an increased need to close the gap in support that these students face. The University of North Texas Multicultural Center is doing this by providing culturally-relevant resources, networks and community to help students of color who identify as male and masculine of center reach their educational and personal goals in innovative ways. The UNT Multicultural Center is excited to announce that we are launching our Men of Color Cohort Program this fall! The Cohorts will meet bi-weekly and provide programs, development and experiences that empower freshman male students of color as a means to support and increase retention, persistence and graduation rates while enhancing the collegiate educational experience. Participants in the program will self-select into race-based cohorts and participate in a rigorous educational experience that will blend formal learning, co-curricular involvement and resource building. The Cohorts will focus on the following objectives:
I. Academic Achievement and Support
II. Cultural Appreciation
III. Leadership, Personal, and Professional Development
IV. Maleness and Healthy Masculinity
V. Mentorship and Service Additionally, the Men of Color Cohort Program will consist of the following:
Bi-weekly meetings that will dig into identity development and awareness, personal achievement and goals, and gender and cultural issues
One-on-one meetings with Multicultural Center staff
Grade checks
Mentorship interactions
Exposure to academic, campus and financial resources
For questions about the cohorts, contact Lauren Whiteman at Lauren.Whiteman@unt.edu.
The job placement rate between young men of color from those of other backgrounds continues to grow in a negative direction and experience has taught us that internships in one's field of study are key to job placement directly after graduation. To help bridge the gap, a group of alumni formed a professional mentorship program called A Few Good Men. Using their corporate experiences, Elliotte Dunlap, Andre Lewis and their partner Shondrick Hill offer a hands on approach to mentorship, skill-set development, self-awareness, personal responsibility, and academic achievement. The mission of the program is to challenge young men of color to own their destiny, embrace education and to dream chase relentlessly with passion and rigor, while also challenging University of North Texas alumni and local, regional and national businesses to provide internships and employment to this diverse group of young professionals. A Few Good Men meets the last Thursday of each month.
Inclusion and Equity for Community Building Cohorts
UNT's Housing and Residence Life continues its journey as the pilot cohort for Inclusion, Equity, and Community Building, a five-module series delivered by the Office of Diversity and Inclusion that addresses cultural humility, bias awareness and identity development, microaggressions, privilege and allyship, and change leadership. The department began last year with a cohort of community directors, assistant community directors, and graduate assistants who have begun integrating these perspectives into their programs, policies, and practices. This year they continue with a new cohort of staff in the sessions, including members of its management team.
Following the path of their divisional colleagues, Student Health and Wellness staff began participating in the same series this fall, with a focus on providing inclusive patient care to UNT students. They will work with the Office of Diversity and Inclusion to engage in the same integration of these perspectives into their policies practices as a result of their participation.
To learn how your department or unit can participate in this training series, visit the Office of Diversity and Inclusion list of available trainings and training request page here.


Today's interview on Redefining Medicine features Jack Monaco, MD. Founder of the Monaco Center for Health and Healing, Dr. Monaco practiced obstetrics and gynecology until 2007, when a personal health crisis changed the trajectory of his career. Now, at Nashville Hormone & Integrative Medicine Center, Dr. Monaco helps his patients achieve optimal health and wellness through hormonal therapies, nutritional counseling, biofeedback, and various other cutting-edge treatment modalities. As a sought-after lecturer throughout the country with multiple prestigious awards, Dr. Monaco is both Fellowship-trained and Board-certified by the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine.


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ABOUT SEABORN NETWORKS
Seaborn Networks is an award winning developer and operator of submarine fiber optic cable systems with an independent cable operator model. We are committed to changing the way submarine cable capacity is bought and sold by introducing the industry's first carrier-neutral business model.
Seaborn was founded by successful telecom, submarine cable and wholesale carrier executives with experience in designing, building and operating many of the world's largest submarine and terrestrial networks.
Seabras-1 is the first direct point-to-point submarine cable system between the financial centers of the US and Brazil. Seabras-1 is a six fiber pair, 72Tbps system that will connect New York and São Paulo. The system also has numerous branching units installed for future additional direct routes, including to Ashburn (USA), Miami (USA), St. Croix (USVI), Fortaleza (Brazil), Rio de Janeiro (Brazil), and Las Toninas (Argentina).
Our pioneering approach: combining consortium-like pricing with the flexibility of an independent cable operator model on fast, high quality routes. This new "pay as you grow" business model is an enabler for all purchasers of submarine cable capacity: content providers, carriers, governments and ISPs. Our pricing works by enabling dramatic economies of scale on some of the fastest growing primary routes in the world.
Seabras-1 was the recipient of the 2016 World Finance Magazine's Greenfield Deal of the Year Award for Project Finance, Global Telecoms Business Award for Wholesale Service, the Perfect 10 ECA Deal of the Year for 2015 – Best America ECA Finance Deal by Trade & Export Finance and the GTR Best Deal of 2015 by Global Trade Review.
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7 East Silver Springs Blvd., Suite 300, Ocala, FL 34470
Daniel L. Hightower
Alison L. Hightower
Mark N. Tipton
Barbara L. Richard
David D. Guiley
Our Areas of Practice: Vehicle Accidents
Home Auto Accident Our Areas of Practice: Vehicle Accidents
Auto Accident Motorcycle Accidents Ocala Truck Accidents January 15, 2016
Along with our other areas of practice, The Law Office of Daniel L. Hightower has a strong knowledge and proficiency in Vehicle Accident Law cases.
In a split second, an car, truck or motorcycle accident can change the lives of you and your loved ones forever. A traffic crash occurs somewhere in Florida every two seconds. Most crashes are caused by the negligence or carelessness of a driver. If you are injured in a collision, you may have a claim against the at-fault driver and your own insurance company, and it is important to consult with an attorney right away.
The Law Offices of Daniel L. Hightower, P.A. are highly experienced in car, motorcycle, and truck accident law. To receive the full compensation that you are entitled to by law, it is important to retain an attorney experienced in the aggressive prosecution of these claims. At Daniel L. Hightower, PA the professionals in the personal injury department quickly secure and retain evidence, document damages and aggressively pursue your claim. Failure to secure evidence or properly document injuries or damages can severely affect the value of your case.
Additionally, you may be asked by the involved insurance companies to give recorded statements. It is important that you obtain legal counsel before giving any recorded statements to assure that your legal rights are being protected.
If you have a potential automobile injury claim, please feel free to contact us.
If the Law Office of Daniel L. Hightower can be of assistance to you in your Social Security Disability Law case in Ocala or Marion County, please contact us today at 352-629-7777.
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Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Event – Ocala, Florida
The Law Firm of Daniel L. Hightower, P.A. was honored to sponsor and participate in the American Cancer Society's Making Strides Against…
Christmas Care Packages from Daniel L. Hightower, Lawyer
Staff members of Daniel L. Hightower, PA, Lawyer, packing a Christmas Care Package to be mailed to a United States…
Onward and Upward!
Onward and Upward! Today barring any unforeseen weather issues, two astronauts will ride a privately built rocket and spacecraft to…
Our Areas of Expertise: Work Accident Law
Along with our other areas of expertise, The Law Office of Daniel L. Hightower has a strong knowledge and proficiency in Work…
Watch For Motorcycles
Watch Out for Motorcycles! 2020 Daytona Beach Bike Week March 6 – March 15 BIKE WEEK 2020 is officially underway…
Happy Memorial Day… AND LET NOT THEIR SACRIFICE BE FORGOTTEN Photo credit: www.flaginsider.com On Memorial Day the flag is raised briskly…
We are Proud to Sponsor Marion County Legal Support Association (MCLSA)
The Law Firm of Daniel L. Hightower, P.A. was proud to sponsor the Marion County Legal Support Association (MCLSA) who…
Attorney Spotlight: Alison L. Hightower
Since 1976, the Law Office of Daniel L. Hightower in Ocala, FL has been standing up for the rights of…
Happy Holidays from Daniel L. Hightower, P.A., Lawyer
I would like to take this opportunity to personally wish you, my present and former clients, as well as friends…
Frequently Asked Questions How will I pay for my legal fees? We take cases on a contingency fee basis. That…
Sometimes Less is More The first time I heard this phrase years ago, it was confusing to me. And then…
Our Areas of Expertise: Wrongful Death Law
Along with our other areas of expertise, The Law Office of Daniel L. Hightower has a strong knowledge and proficiency in Wrongful…
Automobile Collisions | Time is of the Essence
How soon should I contact an attorney after an automobile collision? One of my clients asked me when is the…
Our Areas of Expertise: Social Security Disability Law
Along with our other areas of expertise, The Law Office of Daniel L. Hightower has a strong knowledge and proficiency in Social…
Dan Hightower Receives Pro Bono Attorney of the Year Award – 2017
Kimberly Sanchez, Director of Community Legal Services of Mid-Florida (left) presenting The Pro Bono Attorney of the Year Award for…
Following This Link Will Ban Your IP
The Law Offices of Daniel L. Hightower, P.A. specialize in wrongful death, personal injury, car accidents, work accidents, and social security law.
Our mission is to represent deserving clients and help them recover the maximum benefits they are entitled to by law in a timely manner.
Thanksgiving – 2020
Daniel L. Hightower © 2020.


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Its a regular Thursday evening .. 'Superwoman' is writing at the table....then out of the blue as if she has already been having this conversation in her head...she says...
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"I've got lots"
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Bless Her.
Bella, family
dee -@ The Old Fat Hen 8:57 am
too cute love dee x
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They are so funny aren't they... I get endless enjoyment from their funny little personalities.
Mardi x
That is priceless! Bless her little cotton socks 😉
I am so glad I thought to record it... it was just a little thing... but to her it was almost a revelation.
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Naming Ceremony Set for P&O's Arvia Cruise Ship
In a first for the industry, P&O Cruises' newest ship will get quite a send-off when its naming ceremony is held during a beachside extravaganza on the Caribbean island that will become its homeport starting in March 2023.
The Arvia, a P&O Excel-class vessel and sister ship to the Iona, was built at the Meyer Werft yard in Papenburg, Germany, and will be delivered to the cruise line this month.
Global Audience Invited to Arvia's Naming
The 5,200-guest Arvia will be anchored off a Barbados beach when it is named on March 16 in what the line is calling a spectacular event featuring some of Britain's most popular performers and presenters, and will be broadcast live online to a global audience.
P&O Cruises president Paul Ludlow said, "We always aim to do things differently, to create stand out and memorable moments for our current and future guests. Arvia will spend her first season sailing in the Caribbean so it is fitting that we mark her naming in one of our favorite ports of call with a week of celebratory performances and experiences on board."
Ludlow said the ship will be positioned off one of the island's most stunning beaches so the audience at home will be able to see the interior design of the ship as well as the performances and events taking place on the shore. He promised it would be "an unmissable event." The names of performers will be announced later, P&O said.
Photo Courtesy: P&O Cruises
The Prime Minister of Barbados, the Honourable Mia Amor Mottley said, "I want to thank P&O Cruises for choosing Barbados as the location for this unique event. Barbados continues to share a rich relationship with our sea and tourism, and the cruise industry has been of vital importance to our island and our economy."
"I am delighted that Barbados can be that place that continues to bring more 'firsts' to the world, and through this beachside ceremony, give thousands of people the opportunity to see a glimpse of what we have to offer to visitors."
The Arvia was originally scheduled to debut on a sailing from Southampton December 9, but construction delays forced a postponement and the maiden sailing was canceled. The ship is now scheduled to sail on December 23.
Once in Barbados, the ship will sail a series of 7- and 14-day cruises. Seven-day sailings will call at Tortola, Dominican Republic, St. Maarten, and Antigua-Barbuda, while 14-day cruises will visit those ports and also call at St. Kitts and Nevis, Martinique and St. Lucia.
Arvia to Feature 20 Dining Venues, Escape Room
The Arvia was floated out from its building dock at the Meyer Werft yard last August 27 and was transferred on the Ems River to Eemshaven (Netherlands) in November for technical and sea trials. It will be delivered to P&O Cruises in Bremerhaven.
Rendering Courtesy: P&O Cruises
The new ship is equipped with an LNG propulsion system, which eliminates nitrogen oxides and particulate matter in addition to reducing CO2 emissions. There are 20 dining options onboard, and four cabin categories: inside, seaview, balcony, and suite. Entertainment venues include the Limelight Club and Headliner's Theater.
The Arvia also will boast the cruise line's first escape room, called Mission Control, built and designed by Düsseldorf, Germany-based technology company, Tennagels. Through an immersive experience, combining an escape game with multimedia simulation and a live-action story, Mission Control takes guests into ocean canyons, encountering sunken cities, and offers encounters with underwater creatures onboard the submarine Arvia II.
Korean Shippers Call for Striking Drivers to Return to Work
Robotron: Can the newest cruise ship amusement ride compete with an onboard roller coaster? TPG finds out
MSC Cruises Takes Delivery of Another Cruise Ship
Deal alert: Fly nonstop to Tokyo for less than $600
Princess Cruises to Implement Beverage and Dining Hikes


Kyocera is working on a speakerless smartphone that uses bone conduction rather than traditional speakers. It's ideal for use in noisy environments, because it doesn't waste energy trying to transmit sound waves through the air to your ears.
Kyocera's prototype smartphone has a vibrating screen; when you press the screen against your cheek, ear or even muffs covering your ear, the screen's vibrations send the sound waves along your facial tissues and bones to your inner ear and thence to your brain.
The first person to describe a device using bone conduction to improve sound transmission was sf's own Hugo Gernsback, who filed a patent for an "Acoustic Apparatus" in 1923; his patent was granted by the US Patent Office in 1924.
This invention relates to acoustical instruments and the important objects of the invention are to provide simple and practical means by which hearing may be effected by sound vibrations transmitted directly to the osseous tissue of the body. A particular purpose is to provide such means in the form of a small, compact and handy instrument which can be easily carried about and used without attracting undue attention.
Science fiction fans also recall the audio relay from Robert Heinlein's 1951 novel The Puppet Masters; essentially, it is an implanted cell phone.


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Provider groups at odds with regulators over arbitration rules for No Surprises Act
Iowa has among lowest rates of surprise billing in the nation
BY JOE GARDYASZ, Senior Staff Writer
Thursday, January 13, 2022 3:30 PM
Although a new federal law means that Iowa patients should no longer receive surprise medical bills after an emergency room visit or hospital stay, health care provider groups and insurers are still wrangling at the national level over details of the dispute resolution rules that have been devised by regulators.
Surprise billing, also known as balance billing, occurs when a person seeks care at an in-network facility or provider, but unknowingly receives services that are out-of-network. Nationally, about 1 in 5 emergency room visits and up to 1 in 6 in-network hospitalizations include at least one surprise out-of-network bill, according to a 2020 Kaiser Family Foundation study.
Under the No Surprises Act, which went into effect on Jan. 1, medical bills for out-of-network charges that were not the choice of the patient will now be settled through arbitration between the payer and the provider, taking the patient out of these types of billing disputes. Federal agencies estimate that about 10 million surprise medical bills are received by consumers annually.
Before the new process can begin, however, insurers and providers will need to resolve their own conflict over how disputed bills will be handled.
A lawsuit filed by the American Hospital Association, the American Medical Association and other providers in early December alleges that the final rule developed by regulators favors insurers in the arbitration process, and is seeking an injunction on that process. The defendants in the case include the federal agencies that wrote the rules — the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the Department of the Treasury, the Department of Labor, and the Office of Personnel Management.
The dispute centers on the language in the interim final rule, which states that the independent dispute resolution (IDR) entity "must begin with the presumption that the QPA [qualifying payment amount] is the appropriate out-of-network rate" and that the IDR "must select the offer closest to the QPA unless it determines that credible information submitted by either party clearly demonstrates that that billed amount is materially different from the appropriate out-of-network rate."
According to a summary of the rule, the qualifying payment amount is "generally the plan or issuer's median contracted rate for the same or similar service in the specific geographic area."
"The lawsuit really is dealing with how the arbitration and dispute resolution is going to play out, and so it's a very narrow challenge of this law," said Chris Mitchell, president and CEO of the Iowa Hospital Association, which is the state affiliate of the AHA. "We strongly believe that the intent of Congress isn't necessarily being followed to the letter of the law by the regulators, and that's where the dispute is. It has nothing to do with any of the provisions that will benefit consumers, from the Iowa Hospital Association perspective."
Mitchell said the lawsuit will not delay the primary intent of the legislation, which is taking consumers out of the dispute process.
The new law applies to nearly all private health plans offered by employers and to individual policies bought on or off the Affordable Care Act exchanges. Medicare and Medicaid already prohibit billing patients for the balance of the charges. It covers most emergency services provided in hospitals, free-standing emergency departments and urgent care centers licensed to provide emergency care.
It also applies to air ambulance services, but not ground ambulances. Additionally, the legislation applies to bills for scheduled treatment from doctors and hospitals that are not in the patients' insurance networks and that they did not choose. Consumers would be responsible only for their usual in-network cost-sharing in these situations.
Providers and plans also must notify consumers of their surprise medical bill protections. Providers and facilities must post a one-page disclosure notice summarizing NSA surprise billing protections on a public website and give this disclosure to each patient for whom they provide NSA-covered services.
As reported by NPR in November, physician groups argue that the arbitration rule as written gives insurers the upper hand and will let them drive payment rates down and potentially force doctors out of networks or even out of business, reducing access to health care.
Department of Health and Human Services Director Xavier Becerra told NPR that his department has heard those concerns but said the bottom line is protecting patients. Medical providers who have taken advantage of a complicated system to charge exorbitant rates will have to bear their share of the cost, he says, or close if they can't. "I don't think when someone is overcharging that it's going to hurt the overcharger to now have to [accept] a fair price," Becerra said. "Those who are overcharging either have to tighten their belt and do it better, or they don't last in the business."
The surprise billing study conducted in 2020 by Kaiser shows that Iowa has among the lowest rates of surprise billing among the states. According to that study, 8% of Iowa patients reported receiving at least one surprise billing following an emergency room visit, compared with a national average around 20%, and 4% of Iowa patients who had an inpatient stay reported receiving a surprise bill following their hospitalization, compared with about 17% on average nationally.
Iowa's largest health insurer, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Iowa, says its broad provider network means that surprise out-of-network bills "happen very rarely" for its Iowa policyholders. Its network includes 100% of the hospitals in the state and 98% of physicians in Iowa, the company said in an emailed response to the Business Record.
"These providers recognize the value of participating in Wellmark's network, and Wellmark appreciates the care they deliver to our members," wrote Megan Garrett, a Wellmark spokeswoman. "Providers participating in Wellmark's network are prohibited from balance billing members for covered services."
Asked if the new law adequately addresses the primary issues related to surprise billing, Garrett said that ground ambulance charges, which are not addressed in the No Surprises Act, "could be another future opportunity."
"The law focuses on three areas of services performed by providers that do not participate in an insurance company's network — professional services performed within a hospital that does participate in the network, emergency room professional services, and air ambulance services," she wrote. "These are the most likely scenarios that a member may unknowingly receive out-of-network services."
Will the new law help to reduce health care costs? Probably not, according to Wellmark. "The new law should help protect individuals from surprise out of network billing for services received," Garrett wrote. "The law forces health plans and out-of-network providers to work through the issue, protecting the member from surprise out of network services but due to the low volume of out-of-network services for Wellmark members, we don't have an expectation that this will reduce overall health care costs."
Mitchell said the Iowa Hospital Association is generally supportive of many of the present provisions of the No Surprises Act. "I think getting the patient out of these billing disputes is a positive move," he said.
Another provision of the federal legislation — one that isn't disputed — is a "good faith estimate" provision, which requires providers to give patients who are self-pay or do not have insurance coverage a financial estimate of the cost of nonemergency procedures within three days following the procedure, Mitchell said.
Providing upfront estimates on out-of-pocket costs has been a practice of MercyOne health system for many years, the Des Moines-based health system said in an emailed statement. It also makes cost-estimate tools available on all of its hospital websites, saying that it is "committed to transparent and patient friendly billing practices that help patients understand their estimated out-of-pocket health care costs before they receive care."
Despite the Jan. 1 enactment of the new law, there is still much uncertainty, MercyOne officials wrote.
"The complex regulations implementing this law have only recently been finalized, more clarity is needed in some areas, and some parts of the law continue to face legal challenges. Despite that uncertainty, we are committed to ensuring we meet all requirements in the No Surprises Act. We will continue to work with health care stakeholders to make health care billing more understandable and predictable, protect patients from unexpected medical bills, and remove patients from payment disputes between insurers and providers."
A brief summary of consumer protections under the No Surprises Act from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services can be found at this link.


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Merchant Square Footbridge in Paddington, London
Joe Doucet Designs Stylish Face Shield With Integrated Sunglass Lenses
These Museums Are Creating Their Own Apps
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WeWantMore Highlights Drag Legacy of Brussels' Le Grand Café with Giant Drag Queen Portraits
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CRA-Carlo Ratti Associati
Carlo Ratti Launches Wardrobe Purifier To Remove Bacteria And Viruses From Clothes
CRA-Carlo Ratti Associati unveils Pura-Case, a portable wardrobe purifier that uses ozone to remove most micro-organisms, bacteria, and viruses from clothes and fabric. The project aims to address the needs of the "new normal" – that is, the emerging changes brought forward to our domestic life by COVID-19. Pura-Case was commissioned by Scribit, the tech startup which recently converted part of its production line to respond to the current pandemic. Once a piece of garment is hung inside the case, an air purification system by ozone treatment cleans and deodorizes the fabrics. Currently developed as a prototype, Pura-Case is about to be launched through a Kickstarter crowdfunding campaign.
Viruses or bacteria can survive on clothes for long periods. Ozone, a naturally-occurring triatomic form of oxygen (O3), is commonly used in the health and textile industry to sanitize fashion items, objects, and spaces. Pura-Case brings this technology safely into the household. It uses ozone to sterilize clothes while reducing the need for unnecessary washing and thus the consumption of water. Employed together with public health guidelines of the World Health Organization, Pura-Case would help contribute to a more hygienic environment in the house.
"As the entire world adjusts to a new normal in terms of health and hygiene, Pura-Case aims to promote top sanitation standards in the key interface between us and the environment – clothes," says architect Carlo Ratti, director of the MIT Senseable City Lab, who led the Pura-Case design team. "Pura-Case is an alternative to large-sized devices currently being used in hospitals. It can play a vital role in the post-pandemic world next year as we regain our old social life."
Pura-Case can be installed in a domestic setting and complete a cycle of purification in about one hour. Users can place the clothes inside the case, which accommodates up to four hangers and close it with an air-tight zipper. Using only a small amount of power, an imperceptible discharge will activate the ozone to penetrate the fabric and purify it while at the same time removing its odor. Once the cleaning cycle is completed, the ozone is reduced to oxygen through a natural decay process, ensuring the case is safe to open. The entire process can be started and controlled either via the LED-lit top panel or remotely through the Pura-Case mobile app.
Created for offices and households, especially for the people whose work entails frequent contact with strangers – the most exposed to coronavirus infection in the last weeks – Pura-Case is made with sustainable fabrics treated to keep ozone inside.
The Pura-Case prototype by CRA was developed for Scribit, the write&erase robot startup named as one of the Best Inventions of the Year by Time Magazine in 2019. Since March 2020, when most production activities have been reduced by the pandemic, Scribit has redirected its efforts to develop projects with a positive social impact. Pura-Case has been developed at Scribit's factory in Turin, northern Italy.
Carlo Ratti AssociaticoronavirusdevicesGadgetsScribit
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★ Movie star Jennifer Lawrence (26) has seemingly gone public with her new romance by openly kissing director Darren Aronofsky (47) during a date night in NYC. She'd previously been spotted on a number of casual outings with the "Black Swan" filmmaker. Reports suggest the couple grew close while filming Aronofsky's new, as-yet-untitled movie over the Summer and things developed from there. The relationship is J-Law's first since splitting from Coldplay frontman Chris Martin last Summer.
★ Animated comedy "The Simpsons" (FOX) has been renewed for Seasons 29 and 30, meaning it will break the record for the most episodes for a scripted TV series … ever. TV western "Gunsmoke" (1955-75) is the current record-holder, with 635 episodes. "The Simpsons" just passed the 600-episode mark, and as of Season 30 will hit a grand total of 669 episodes. The current overall record for any TV genre is held by "Meet The Press" (NBC), which has been running 69 seasons … over 17,590 episodes.
★ 35-year-old Emmy-winner Rami Malek ("Mr Robot") is set to play iconic rock singer Freddie Mercury in the movie "Bohemian Rhapsody" when the much-disrupted Queen biopic finally begins filming next year. It's has been in the production pipeline for 8 years, with Sacha Baron Cohen thought to have nailed down the lead, but he walked away earlier this year citing disagreements with producers. The movie is being directed by Bryan Singer ("X-Men").
★ Beyoncé, Kevin Hart, and Serena Williams have all been included in the '2016 Ebony Power 100' list. "Ebony Magazine" has honored the heroes of the black community for over 70 years, and annually celebrates inspirational African-American celebrities, corporate heads, and civic leaders. Also on this year's list: Chance the Rapper, NBA player Carmelo Anthony, gymnast Simone Biles, NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick, Nike president Trevor Edwards, musicians John Legend and Nas. The full list appears in the magazine's upcoming December issue.
• "Conan" (TBS/CTV) – Blood Orange ("Freetown Sound"). Rerun.
• "Dancing With the Stars" (ABC) – The 6 remaining celebrities dance to Broadway musicals and perform in the 'Team-Up Challenge'.
• "Harry" (syndicated) – Common ("Black America Again").
• "Jimmy Kimmel Live" (ABC/CityTV) – Vic Mensa f/Travis Barker ("There's A Lot Going On").
• "Last Call With Carson Daly" (NBC) – Mac DeMarco ("Another One").
• "Late Night With Seth Meyers" (NBC/CTV) – The 1975 ("I Like It When You Sleep, for You are So Beautiful Yet So Unaware of It").
• "Late Show With Stephen Colbert" (CBS/Global) – Drive-By Truckers ("American Band").
• "Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon" (NBC/CTV2) – Muna ("Here to Stay").
• "The Voice" (NBC/CTV2) – The top 20 compete for viewer votes and a chance for a spot among the 12 finalists.
• Beyoncé – She stunned fans Friday night by making an unexpected appearance at her husband Jay Z's gig in Cleveland OH. Jay headlined a free show supporting Hillary Clinton's presidential campaign with pals like Big Sean, Chance the Rapper, and J Cole.
• James Arthur – The former "X Factor UK" winner's comeback album "Back From the Edge" has outsold the Elvis Presley compilation "The Wonder of You" and crooner Michael Bublé's "Nobody But Me" over the past week to debut at #1 on the official British album chart.
• Rihanna – On top of her plethora of previous awards, she's now picked up … 'Shoe Of the Year'. "Footwear News", which announces the annual 'shoe Oscars', has selected the 'Fenty Pumas by Rihanna' for the 2016 award. Past winners include Kanye West for his 'Yeezy Boost 350' sneaker from Adidas.
• It embarrasses you to tell people what you do.
• You've been on the job more than a year and you still feel like a total fraud.
• You connect with no one in the workplace.
• You are overwhelmed with rage or anxiety on a daily basis.
• The pay is lousy but you really need the money.
• Internet fonts are getting thinner and harder to read.
• Half of American adults are now in a facial recognition database.
• "Fill Our Staplers Day", a twice-a-year reminder that coincides with the time change in Spring and Fall.
• "International Merlot Day", saluting the wine made from the most widely-planted grape in France, which also grows well in Argentina, Australia, California, and Switzerland. Hmm, how should we celebrate?
• "Job Action Day", the 9th annual focusing on how job-seekers worldwide can build and enhance their reputations, their careers, and their personal brands.
• His girlfriend says he's an early riser.
• Once had an affair with Play-Doh.
• Likes to bake-off when no one is around.
☎ What's the most creative way you've used to get your baby to sleep?
Even if you really need it, only 1-in-5 strangers will do which for you?
b. Give you a hug.
Question: The average person does THIS 13 times a day. What?
Kevin Page @ Sunny 107.7 [WMRS] Monticello IN; Jason Gunn @ More FM Christchurch NZ; Ryan Daly @ 82.1 Rock [CJQQ] Timmins ON; Ian Colebrook-Smith @ Rasen Radio, Market Rasen UK; and Q @ The Reel 95.5 [KQZR] Steamboat Springs CO.


Black Nylon Tape or man made leather material. 2 Eyelets in the right side for ventilation. Unit Weight: 65-70g or80-90g.
We are also available with an exclusive array of woolen inner wear that are knitted with premium quality wool and gives maximum comfort to soothe the body. They are extremely in demand in the market owing to their soft texture, style and comfort.


text:
Home News Disney c.e.o Robert Iger's management book to Transworld
Disney c.e.o Robert Iger's management book to Transworld
Published November 2, 2016 by Natasha Onwuemezi
Transworld has acquired Robert Iger's untitled book on leadership and management, which explores the ideas, values, and growth strategies he has developed in his 11...
Transworld has acquired Robert Iger's untitled book on leadership and management, which explores the ideas, values, and growth strategies he has developed in his 11 years as c.e.o. of media company Disney, for publication in 2018.
Publishing director Doug Young acquired UK and Commonwealth rights from Karolina Sutton at Curtis Brown on behalf of Esther Newberg at ICM Partners.
In his time as c.e.o. of Disney, Iger "strengthened and revitalised" Disney's core businesses, made several key acquisitions such as Pixar, Marvel, and Lucasfilm, and recently completed a multi-billion-dollar theme park in China, 17 years in the making – achieving a "rare balance of creativity, business, and innovation", and establishing himself as "one of the most successful leaders of his generation". During his leadership of Disney, the company's stock price has "nearly quadrupled", and Iger has recently been named c.e.o. of the year and the most powerful person in Hollywood.
Iger said: "For eleven years, I've had the privilege of running one of the world's most well-known and admired companies, interacting with countless creative geniuses, innovators, and almost 200,000 enthusiastic, motivated employees – and all during a time of great challenge and opportunity. It takes a very different kind of leadership to manage a global brand in such a dynamic marketplace, and I look forward to sharing what I've learned with readers. The experience of managing a company whose primary business is storytelling is a story unto itself."
Robert Iger
Young to leave Transworld amid non-fiction restructure
The Book People 'is profitable again' says c.e.o
Wadeson to lead Transworld's Non-Fiction division
Penguin c.e.o Makinson to DoJ 'see you in court'
Glaister steps down as c.e.o of The Book People


Bringing differences within the party to the fore, a section of Gorkha Janmukti Morcha leaders on Thursday announced withdrawal of the ongoing indefinite shutdown in the north Bengal hills for 12 days, even as some top leaders of the party claimed otherwise.
According to sources close to the GJM, some central committee members held a meeting in Darjeeling district's Kurseong and decided to withdraw the ongoing shutdown from September 1 to September 12.
Party joint secretary Binay Tamang, who convened the meeting, could not be contacted even after several attempts.
However, denying such a move, GJM general secretary Roshan Giri claimed the shutdown would continue and said the party chief Bimal Gurung has not taken any decision to withdraw it.
"The shutdown is going to continue. We will later decide whether the party would participate in the state government sponsored all party meeting on September 12. The news about withdrawing the shutdown is incorrect," Giri claimed.
Tamang led a five-member party delegation at the state government sponsored all-party meeting along with other major hill parties in Kolkata on August 29 and claimed that the peace and normalcy in the hills should be restored immediately.
Normal life has been paralysed since June 12 due to the indefinite shutdown called by the GJM, severely impacting the region's economy based on tea, tourism and timber.


text:
import React from 'react-native';
import { login } from '../assets/styles';
const {
  Component,
  Text,
  View,
} = React;
import BottomButton from './button_bottom';

const LoginOrSignup = ({ onSelect }) => (
  <View style={login.container}>
    <View style={login.containerHead}>
      <Text style={login.title}>Quilt</Text>
    </View>
    <BottomButton buttonTextStyle={login.buttonText} buttonStyle={login.loginButton} text="Login" onPress={() => onSelect('login')} />
    <BottomButton buttonTextStyle={login.buttonText} buttonStyle={login.signupButton} text="Signup" onPress={() => onSelect('signup')} />
  </View>
);

export default LoginOrSignup;


"Get active for the sturgeons" - this is the motto of Danube Day 2013. EU Commissioner for Regional Development Johannes Hahn has now published a video message to the people of the Danube Basin on this occasion.
He highlights three main issues in the struggle for sustainable sturgeon stocks in th Danube Basin: (1) the protection of habitats, for example for spawning; (2) the fight against illegal fisheries and caviar trade; (3) the re-establishment of longitudinal connectivity – the possibility for sturgeons to pass dams mostly of hydropower plants to reach spawning grounds in upstream areas.
Commissioner Hahn also draws attention to the many initiatives that emerged from the EU Strategy for the Danube Region, for which the ICPDR is an important partner. To view the original video message above, your computer must support Adobe Flash.


text:
Experts Events Opinion polls
All publications Focus on Ukraine Public opinion Analytics Ukrainian democratic barometer Books Yasnyky Ukraine's political portrait
Media Infographics
About foundation Team Financial reports Contacts
The Ilko Kucheriv Democratic Initiatives Foundation (DIF) is an analytical and enlightening organization
We aims at building Ukrainian state, democracy, and market economy and enhancing full integration of Ukraine into European and Euro-Atlantic structures. Nowadays, DIF belongs to leading Ukrainian think tanks and focuses its activities on developing reasonable recommendations in the sphere of democratic transformations and Ukraine's European integration for decision makers and civil society representatives.
DIF works as:
А think tank
analyzing public policies which corresponds to popular demand for European standards, and advocacy of reform
A research organization
research of the main trends in public opinion, functioning of bodies of state government and local self-governance and international organizations
education, seminars, informing and enlightenment of civil society, stakeholders, different target groups in Ukraine and abroad on the most relevant and pressing socio-political issues
Ilko Kucheriv
DIF was created in 1992 and was named after its founder and first director Ilko Kucheriv (1955-2010) who made an impressive contribution to democratic progress of Ukraine, as well as development of Ukrainian sociology and civil society.
Iryna Bekeshkina
Now the Director of the Democratic Initiatives Foundation is the Ph.D, sociologist Iryna Bekeshkina.
Olexiy Haran
Head of Research – Olexiy Haran, Professor of Comparative Politics, National University of Kyiv-Mohyla Academy.
Learn more about our team
DIF works in the following spheres:
Research and analysis of trends in public opinion and its influence on public policies
Domestic reforms of the political system
European and Euro-Atlantic integration
Policy towards occupied and liberated territories in the Donbas region with the aim of their re-integration
Frozen conflicts on post-Soviet territory
Strengthening of the capabilities of Ukrainian think tanks
Monitoring of electoral processes and conducting exit polls
DIF was the first NGO that from the start of its activities played the role of an intermediary between researchers of public opinion and civil society by analyzing and presenting public opinion of the Ukrainian population regarding the most poignant social issues to society. Subsequently, DIF introduced public opinion polls to political discourse and was the first to begin actively using public opinion as an argument in political discourse.
Today, DIF as a think tank that conducts original research, resolutely promotes its products to the state level, conducts advocacy of its recommendations systematically influences the forming of policies and public opinion. DIF participates in the work of consulting and advisory bodies of governmental bodies and regularly engages public officials in expert surveys.
One of the key components of the DIF activity has become the conducting of independent exit polls in Ukraine. DIF was the first to organize exit poll during the 1998 parliamentary elections. Since then the team of sociologists and analysts that DIF conglomerated into the National Exit Poll Consortium became the leader in this sphere in Ukraine. By developing standards targeted at the proliferation of democratic values DIF was an example of how an independent organization can change society.
DIF directly influenced the political course of the country in 2004 when it conducted an independent exit poll in Ukraine during the presidential elections, which pointed to the falsification of the election results through vote rigging, changed the political landscape of Ukraine and became the main argument for and catalyst of the Orange Revolution. Since that time the exit polls became a crucial and indispensable element of political culture to ensure free and fair elections and an instrument of voter control in Ukraine.
DIF takes part in coalitions of different formats, which unites different public or non-government organizations. It was one of the founders and participants of the Freedom of Choice coalition, later the New Citizen coalition and the Chesno (Fair) movement and today the Reanimation Package of Reforms.
DIF has risen to new levels of cooperation with foreign think tanks and from time to time it presents its studies on the course of reform in Ukraine abroad. Since 2010 DIF is a member of the PASOS international network of think tanks, which significantly fostered its capabilities as a think tank. In 2014 DIF became a member of the Association of Ukrainian Think Tanks, which consolidates its efforts in promoting reform and European integration in Ukraine through the Ukrainian Think Tanks Liaison Office in Brussels. DIF is also a member of the Ukrainian national platform Forum of Civil Society of Eastern Partnership in Brussels.
According to the results of the Global Go To Think Tank Index, which is compiled within the framework of the Think Tanks and Civil Societies Program (TTCSP) at the University of Pennsylvania (U.S.), DIF is rated among the most influential think tanks in the Eastern Europe.
DIF constantly holds public events (debates, roundtables and press conferences) dedicated to the discussion of issues of the development of the Ukrainian state, national interests, democratic processes and the integration of the country into European and Euro-Atlantic structures. DIF continues its activity in the direction of Euro-Atlantic integration. Having started its activity as a civil center for the support of Ukraine's accession to NATO, today DIF has gained the reputation of an authoritative analytical source of the Euro-Atlantic attitudes of Ukrainians.
DIF publishes the English-language analytical bulletins "Focus on Ukraine", which offers regular assessment of political events in Ukraine, "Policy Papers" in which the main reforms in Ukraine is analyzed and "Public Opinion", in which the views of Ukrainians on specific problems and issues in the political, economic and social life of Ukraine are studied.
P.O. Box В-271, Kyiv 01001
33, 3rd floor, Olesya Honchara Street, Kyiv
Contacts Team About us
Ilko Kucheriv «Democratic Initiatives» foundation
All rights reserved, 1993-2020


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How many of us are not moved by what Terrorism is doing unto our World? Except for terrorists themselves, I believe that all of us are angry and sad; yet more, we all feel thoroughly disappointed and frustrated about the infertility of the measures taken by all Nations involved in fighting terrorism. If we do not want to take the Conspiracy Theory turn, we can assume that the apparently scattered and cellular nature of terrorist organizations makes it very difficult for military and intelligence tools to inflict an effective and efficient solution for this socio-political epidemic that has largely invaded our World since the beginning of the Century.
In this respect, what can we do? Feeling helpless and safe-less are the least to think of, especially in a context where remedies are not clear, and the means through which we, as civilians, can fight terrorism are not available, or at least not smoothly streamlined. Does this mean that we should surrender to this plague and let it eat up our civilization? Does this mean that we should exchange hatred by hatred hence allowing for yet more misery and agony? Obviously, all the seemingly-good intentions to beat the beast have proven ineffective so far. Refugee Support, Development Aid, International Conferences, and Bombing masses of terrorists blended with civilians are not and will never be the answer.
If all this is not working, then what could? Well, solving a problem that is beyond traditional requires seeking solutions that are beyond the obvious. As an HR Expert I learned that, except for natural disasters, all problems are linked to human behavior, and almost all human behavior is learnt. Thus, the main source of all problems is in how we learn and what we learn. It's all in Education and Cultivation. Yes, what I am saying is that beating terrorism can only happen through Education and Cultivation. Not just any kind, but the Education and Cultivation of Abundance, Positivity, and Acceptance of what is different.
All terrorism ideology is based on the philosophy of Scarcity (it is either you or I, as there is no place for both of us on this globe), Negativity (everything has gone bad and there is no way to fix it except through annihilation), Repulsion of others (if you are not one of us then you are an enemy). With this in mind, how would we expect that exchanging Scarcity with Scarcity, Negativity with Negativity and Repulsion with Repulsion will solve the problem? The answer is in Education and Cultivation, because they both act as a protecting shield against Mind Poisoning caused by the promoters of terrorism.
I believe that if Education makes a Living, Cultivation makes a Life. Hence, if we want to beat the beast we will need both of them. Education can help a man better understand and acquire the means for making a dignified living, yet, somewhat it is not enough. Cultivation is the mean cure against the cancer of Mind Poisoning. Cultivation teaches us to open up to others, understand civilizations, and accept that 'Different' is not a synonym of 'Bad'. Both Education and Cultivation can make up what we all would love Humanity to stand for: A positive melting pot of mutual understanding and acceptance leading to prosperity.
I mean let's look at the majority of people, and populations targeted for conscription by terrorism masterminds. They are societies that witness a minimal or total absence of Education. More important, cultivation is in many cases a taboo; I mean how can we get a cultured mind when books are banned and open dialogue is disliked (if not forbidden)? None of us can forget the Story of Malala Yousafzai who for raising the voice for Education she was shot in the head. It is an absurd simile when you shoot the head, is as if they are saying: "You are not allowed to think"! Still, you know what is even worse? It is when terrorism masterminds themselves become the educators. In this case, we might as well be better off without education at all!
Bottom line, we can always choose to spend more than a trillion dollars on weapons to bomb terrorists, but what will we generate in return. How simpletons can us be to think that we are going to kill them all? You can kill a lot of people, but you cannot kill a deeply carved mindset; you can only aim to change it, and that is what we need in order to beat terrorism. If you kill thousands, or hundreds of thousands, more will meanwhile be graduating from the schools of hatred that teach youth the philosophy of scarcity, negativity, and repulsion. We might otherwise consider spending 500 billion dollars on Education and Cultivation in terrorism hubs. With Education, people who are mostly vulnerable to mind poisoning would have another alternative to make a living; yet more important, with cultivation, those same people would know that the World out there is not evil just because it is different.
Media, Governments, Schools, Religious Entities, Civil Society Activists, and most important Homes and Families should all be involved in spreading the philosophy of Abundance, Positivity, and Acceptance. It will take years to change what has been in the making for decades, because mindsets are of the hardest material in Nature to change. Yet, I believe this is the only antidote for terrorism. If we do so, maybe we can increase our chances of beating the beast, and I think we would.


From secluded tropical beaches in Hawaii, to the hustle and bustle of Venice Beach in Los Angeles, here's our list of the U.S.A's best beaches, most of which are located in Kaplan destinations.
Kauna'oa Bay Hawaii: With its fine white sand, crystal clear waters and palm tree littered beaches, it's no wonder that the beaches of Hawaii are often voted among the most beautiful beaches in the world. If its tropical beaches weren't enough to win you over, the snorkelling and diving spots are considered some of the best in America, making Kauna'oa Bay the perfect holiday destination.
Venice Beach – Los Angeles: With 75 miles of sandy beach and renowned surfing spots, Venice Beach has something for everyone. Whether you want to spend the day sunbathing, catching a wave, skate boarding along Venice's Ocean front walk or hitting the amusement pier, L.A's most busiest and vibrant beach is always thriving with people, and promises entertainment for all.
The Hamptons – New York: Located just a short ferry ride away from New York City, The Hamptons is a beloved New York destination. The beach sits within a picturesque town, and is the perfect location for those seeking a peaceful day at the beach. As a favourite with celebrities from all over, you're also likely to be rubbing shoulders with the A-List.
Laguna Beach – California: With its beautiful sandy beaches and clear waters, it's no wonder that Laguna Beach had its own television show and has featured heavily in countless films. Featuring a number of secluded bays, the beach is perfect for families while its clear and calm waters are perfect for fans of surfing and diving.
South Beach – Miami: Often referred to as America's 'party beach' Miami's South beach is the perfect place for party animals seeking a good time. The beach typically attracts a lively, younger crowd who make the most of Miami's thriving night life. Although it is primarily a 'party' beach, South beach also features a thriving art scene and world class boutiques and art galleries.
East Beach – Santa Barbara: Like Venice Beach, Santa Barbara's East Beach is a busy beach side destination. Gentle waves make it a popular spot for swimming, while its volleyball courts make it a mecca for beach volleyball, attracting large groups of sports enthusiasts keen to play in the sun.
Baker Beach – San Francisco: Although the water at Baker Beach is not recommended for swimming in, the beach has incredible views of the Golden Gate Bridge, and is the perfect for sporting activities such as volleyball, frisbee and fishing.
La Jolla Cove – San Diego: Cited as the most photographed beach in San Diego, with blue waters and white sands, La Jolla resembles a tropical paradise. Home to colourful garibaldi, yellowtail, rays and even leopard sharks, its clear waters make it a desirable spot for diving and snorkelling, while the prohibition on surfing makes it a quiet and peaceful beach cove.
Coronado Beach – California: Located just over the bridge from San Diego, this quaint beach is very popular with the locals and families alike. With calm waters and miles of sandy beach, the beach has a relaxed and peaceful vibe, and is popular with swimmers, body boarders and sand sculpters during the summer, while during the winter months whale watches flock to the beach.
Clear Water Beach – Florida: Bordering on the Gulf of Mexico, Florida's Clear Water Beach is a firm favourite among families and couples. With beautiful sandy beaches and gentle waters, the beach is a great place to soak up the sun's rays and swim in the ocean. Visitors are even likely to see the dolphins that frequent this area.
Whether you opt for a peaceful day of snorkelling and diving in Hawaii, or would rather spend your day playing beachside volleyball in Santa Barbara, each of these beaches have their own unique appeal, securing them a list in our top ten best beaches in the U.S.A.