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ECDPMGreat Insights magazineThe Slate is Clean: What's Next?
The Slate is Clean: What's Next?
Ruben, R. and D. de Crombrugghe de Looringhe. 2013.The slate is clean: What's next? GREAT Insights, Volume 2, Issue 1. January 2013. Maastricht: ECDPM
In the early 1970s, many developing countries took out loans from Western banks at favourable rates. Part of this money went into development projects with sometime negligible results; another part of the money also served wider political purposes or disappeared into private bank accounts of corrupt government leaders.
In the late 1970s, interest rates rose while commodity prices fell, which made it difficult for developing countries to repay their loans. Arrears and penalties became self-perpetuating and produced a snowball effect that drove the countries into a downward spiral and jeopardised their development. It took quite a while until the creditors came to terms with reality and accepted that the poor indebted countries would never be able to pay back their debts. This awareness opened the path for debt rescheduling and later debt cancellation.
Debt relief evaluation: a tool for development?
In the Netherlands, the request for a specific evaluation on debt relief came from Parliament following a presentation by the Policy and Operations Evaluation Department (IOB), in their Evaluation of the Dutch Africa policy. The Parliament wanted to know more about the effectiveness of debt relief as a tool for development. The scheduled massive debt relief to Nigeria was a case in point and provoked a wide political debate.
The Belgian Office of the Special Evaluator had already undertaken an evaluation regarding the Belgian policies and practices on debt relief, with Cameroun as a case study. Simultaneously, the Belgian Federal Parliament had focused attention on the debt waivers for the Democratic Republic of Congo and tried to find out whether debt cancellation really contributes to economic growth and structural poverty reduction.
It was quite straightforward for the Office of the Special Evaluator to accept the invitation of their Dutch IOB colleagues to join forces for an in-depth evaluation of debt cancellation measures in Nigeria and in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) that took place at the beginning of the 21st century. Both agencies wanted to apply a rigorous framework for impact evaluation that would provide insights in the net results of debt cancelation.
We had three main sub-questions in mind: to what extent and under what conditions does debt relief
make the debt sustainable
improve the creditworthiness of a country
contribute to poverty reduction
The results: implementation matters
The evaluations yielded contrasting results. Basically, debt relief has an effect on the debt stock, on debt flow and through conditionalities. However, the way in which debt relief schemes were designed and implemented played a crucial role for their effectiveness.
Nigeria, that was not a HIPC-country, was best off: the country negotiated full cancellation of USD 18 bn of foreign debt against immediate payment of USD 12 bn. This operation, achieved with strong internal and international political backing, promptly restored Nigeria's creditworthiness. The evaluation found that the conditionally imposed virtual poverty fund had an effect on social service provision for the poor.
Contrary to Nigeria, the DRC is a HIPC-country that went off-track on public finance management several times. Political will and direct intervention on the creditor side forced the DRC to revise contracts with China to avoid new unsustainable debt. Simultaneously, the creditors recognised that it had reached the completion point, which made possible substantial debt relief. The evaluation looked into the education sector for evidence of improvements following the debt cancellation. Some positive changes, notably in the payment of wages, were found that correlated with the debt relief, but these changes did not reach further than the headquarters of the ministry of education in Kinshasa.
New issues for the Debt Relief Agenda
Retracting from a relief logic that still prevails and that does not question the legitimacy of the debt claims, including the penalties on arrears, some creditors like Norway and the United Kingdom now talk openly about 'odious debt': a debt incurred during a dictatorship without the population ever having received any benefits from it, with the creditor turning a blind eye. From this point of view, debt cancellation is not only about financial sustainability.
Another ongoing process is the fight against vulture funds and other rogue creditors, which buy up the debt of poor developing countries at very low prices and then sue them to enforce payment of the nominal value, including arrears of interest. Legislation outlawing the seizure of ODA-funds and state-to-state loans would imply an important step in that direction. Belgium has already passed a law to protect its ODA grants against seizure. The government also intends to audit the ethical basis of all sovereign credits on developing countries.
Taking stock from the past is not enough. In 2012, the need for investment in developing countries remains more important than ever. How will the creditor community deal with these needs? Will they be able to draw lessons from past experiences and design firewalls to avoid renewed debt overhang? For a few – mostly fragile – countries, the signals are turning red again. Are debtor countries on their side willing to implement administrative and economic reforms, including anti-corruption measures and show political will to guarantee that the funds released will actually be invested in the country's economy and for the strengthening of the position of the poor?
These questions are still at the forefront of public debates about debt rescheduling or debt cancellation in countries with vulnerable economies. The joint evaluations of debt relief effectiveness provide some welcome insights to this debate. They can be accessed here: http://diplomatie.belgium.be/en/policy/development_cooperation/evaluation/conferences/
Dominique de Crombrugghe de Looringhe is Special Evaluator for the Federal Public Service Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation, Belgium.
Ruerd Ruben is the Director of the Policy and Operations Evaluation Department (IOB), Ministry of Foreign Affairs, The Netherlands.
This article was published in Great Insights Volume 2, Issue 1 (January 2013)
Economic Transformation and TradeDebt relief
External authors
Dominique de Crombrugghe de Looringhe
Ruerd Ruben
Related to this publication
Monthly Highlights from ECDPM's Weekly Compass Update, GREAT Insights, Volume 2, Issue 1 (January 2013)
Is Debt Relief a Development Tool?
Thirty Years After the Outbreak of the 3rd World Debt Crisis
Debt Relief and MDGs in Nigeria
Cleaning the External Debt Slate
Editorial: Debt Relief - "Where do we stand, where do we go?"
Weekly Compass newsletter
ECDPM - European Centre for Development Policy Management


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Oscar Martin is once again in the Embassy of Spain in Australia
Oscar Martin first visited Australia with his idols in 2016. At that time, he established contact with the Spanish Embassy in that country and has since formed a special bond with the institution for which he designed the Malaspina Award, which recognizes the relationship between the two countries. At his headquarters in Canberra, Australia's capital, he exhibited his work in 2019 and has returned as a guest artist to participate in open days and Hispanic Day with his sculptures and his ceremonial works.
The pieces were shown a few days ago at the Intertwining Routes exhibition and the creator of Burgos took advantage of the interpretation of his work to accompany visitors on a nine walk through the embassy. «One woman was moved and told me through tears how happy she was to visit the Embassy of Spain. He said he thought it would be a journey in which he would talk about conquerors, empires and exploits… and yet he found friendly faces and a sensitive atmosphere, which gave him an inclusive and avant-garde image of Spain ," he said. Oscar Martin.
But his stay in Australia has given himself much more. On the one hand, on Hispanic Day he organized a whole staging to represent a ceremony with Quimada, using "purification and cleansing through fire" with those present in the embassy. And on the other hand, in an act organized by the Mexican collective in that country, they shared the Day of the Dead at the 107 Cultural Center.
In addition to other sculptures in the gallery that represents them, Oscar Martin has entered into an agreement with the Mexican Embassy to display four sculptures on the main façade of the institution. "This collaboration will allow my work to be displayed until November 2023."
American housing started at a very fast pace in 16 years
Sri Lanka Crisis President Prime Minister of these countries had fled the country overnight
Letter from long-missing Alexander Hamilton put on public display

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


China needs to sustain economic growth of 7.2 percent to ensure a stable job market, Premier Li Keqiang said as he warned the government against further expanding already loose money policies.
Yet even as authorities keep an eye on growth, Li sounded a warning on easy credit supply, which he said had topped 100 trillion yuan ($16.4 trillion) in the world's second-biggest economy.
"Our outstanding M2 money supply has at the end of March exceeded 100 trillion yuan, and that is already twice the size of our gross domestic product (GDP)," Li was quoting as saying.
"In other words, there is already a lot of money in the 'pool'; to print more money may lead to inflation."
His comments echoed the government's hawkish stance on inflation, analysts said, and were separately affirmed on Tuesday by the central bank, which promised to keep policy prudent with appropriate fine-tuning as well as to "resolutely repress" property speculation.
Still, Li's remarks underscore the fine line China must walk to create economic growth and jobs for social stability, while guarding against excesses that may hurt itself in the long run.
China's authorities have criticized the country's $8.5-trillion economy - powered by heavy reliance on exports and investment - as unstable and on an unsustainable growth path.
To retool the economy, its new leaders have signaled they are willing to tolerate slower expansion in exchange for cleaner growth led by consumption.
The crucial meeting of top leaders from November 9 to Nov 12 will shed light on just how committed Beijing is to enforcing reforms, many of which analysts say would test politicians' will to push through unpopular changes.
Buffeted by sluggish export sales and in part on the government's deliberate attempt to slow activity, China's economy is sagging towards its slackest pace of expansion in 23 years this year, at 7.5 percent.
In its third-quarter monetary policy report, the People's Bank of China (PBOC) said China's economy faces a challenging future and that inflation, although stable right now, may rise in the fourth quarter.
"The foundation for stable consumer prices is not solid," the central bank said. "Annual consumer inflation may rise in the fourth quarter."
It said a marked rise in house prices, especially in China's biggest cities, may have also lifted rents, other related costs, and ultimately overall price levels.
The central bank said that the problems of the property market - along with those involving local government debt - are "more prominent" than other ones. It said it will "resolutely repress speculative demand for homes."
Signs of overheating in the property market have led some analysts to speculate the government may unveil measures during or after the Communist Party meeting that opens Saturday.
China's annual consumer inflation rate rose to a seven-month high of 3.1 percent in September as poor weather drove up food prices, limiting the scope for the central bank to maneuver to support the economy even as exports showed a surprise decline.
Li reiterated that a 7.5 percent growth target for 2013 remains intact, but noted that weak exports were a risk.
Exports can directly create about 30 million jobs and add another 70 million jobs in other related industries, Li said.
For every percentage point that China generates in economic growth, it creates 1.3 million to 1.5 million jobs, Li said.
"We are not seeking high-speed growth, and definitely not seeking only GDP growth. But a reasonable speed in growth is needed, and so we have ensured a reasonable range in economic expansion," he said.
China's urban jobless rate eased to 4 percent at the end of September from 4.1 percent three months earlier. It is the country's only official unemployment indicator, but analysts say it grossly underestimates the true level of unemployment as it excludes about 260 million migrant workers from its surveys.
Li did not say that 7.2 percent in annual economic growth was the minimum the government would tolerate, but analysts have always believed that China's leaders considered growth between 7 percent and 7.5 percent to be reasonable.
On inflation risks, however, Li was clear.
"If we loosen credit, if we expand the fiscal deficit, that would be like an old saying where one carries firewood to extinguish a fire," Li was quoted as saying.
"And this is why we choose to persevere with stable fiscal and monetary policies."


Even in the early years of this countries history... There were then, just as there are now, many people who were intolerant of those who invest more heavily in mythology than they do in reason. And I'm certain that it was for the exact same reasons then as it is now.
Early American history offers plenty of examples or organizations and actions that were created just to confront criticisms aimed at religion. Georgetown University was apparently founded in part to combat religious intolerance in the area. And the Maryland Toleration Act of 1649.
There is a common misconception that these types of resolutions were in place to resolve differences between different religious groups. Though it is easy enough to see that this cannot be an accurate assessment when one recalls the objections to religion those who penned the Constitution are well known to have voiced.
What is perplexing to me is that many talk about religious intolerance in early America, yet I am guessing that those who recall this intolerance and take specific exception to it, never asked why religion was met with opposition in the first place.
My guess is that such an inquiry is avoided because cognitive dissonance prevents it... But the reality of what is at hand does not dismiss the question... It only serves to irritate religious folk who need to have some way of feeling like a persecuted victim. Thusly, they can then attempt to display some form of righteous indignation they hope will serve to put their critic on the defensive.
Alas, one thing remains... Religion does indeed have a history of trespassing... Even those who sought a place where their spirituality would not be delegated by any other spirituality or agenda knew this, and left Europe as a result. That this agenda has been perverted into exactly what it was meant to avoid is to say the least - IRONIC - Irony in its most vulgar form... What a shame.
Admittedly, that religion trespasses is not confined to Christianity or early America.


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Q: $f(x) = \begin{cases} \frac{xy^2}{x^2+y^4}, (x,y) \ne0 \\0, (x,y) = 0 \end{cases}$ Determine if the function is continuous at the origin.
Let $f: \mathbb{R^2} \to \mathbb{R}$, $$f(x) = \begin{cases} \frac{xy^2}{x^2+y^4}, (x,y) \ne0 \\0, (x,y) = 0 \end{cases}$$ Determine if the function is continuous at the origin.

Now when $(x,y) \ne 0$, letting $x = y^2$ I have that $\frac{y^4}{y^4+y^4} = \frac{1}{2}$. Similarly when $y=x$ I get $\frac{x^3}{x^2+x^4} = \frac{x}{1+x^2} \to 0$, hence the function is not continuous at the origin. Now I tried using epsilon-delta for this, but couldn't get it to work. What's would be wrong with my approach?
We have that $|f(x)-f(0)| < \varepsilon$ whenever $\|x-0\| = \|x\| = |x| < \delta$.
So let $\varepsilon >0$ and $\delta= \frac{\varepsilon}{y^2}$ $$|f(x)-f(0)| = |f(x)| = \frac{|x|y^2}{|x^2+y^4|} \leqslant |x|y^2 < \delta y^2 =\varepsilon.$$
But this is not true since just above we showed that the function is not continuous at the origin. I guess the problem is $\frac{|x|y^2}{|x^2+y^4|} \leqslant |x|y^2$ which isn't probably true?

A: The statement "$f$ is continuous at $(0,0)$" has the definition: "for every $\varepsilon>0$, there exists a $\delta>0$ such that for every $(x,y)\in\Bbb R^2$, if $(x,y)$ is within $\delta$ of $(0,0)$, then $f(x,y)$ is within $\varepsilon$ of $f(0,0)$".
The first quantified variable is $\varepsilon$, which must be an arbitrary constant (not depending on any other variables).
The next quantified variable is $\delta$, which can be chosen in terms of $\varepsilon$ (since that variable has already been quantified), but must be independent of $x$ and $y$ (since those variables have not been quantified yet when we get to $\delta$). This is the source of the error in the proof—you set $\delta= \varepsilon/y$ which is not allowed.
(And the next quantified variables are $x$ and $y$, which are allowed to be constrained by $\delta$ since that variable has already been quantified.)

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


Congressional lawmakers expressed concern about the privacy implications of some data broker practices at a Senate Commerce Committee hearing held this afternoon.
Committee Chairman John D. Rockefeller IV (D-West Virginia) kicked off the hearing about data brokers—companies that gather data about consumers and then sell that information to marketers—questioning the lack of industry oversight. While data brokers engage in many unobjectionable activities, some of their practices raise serious consumer protection concerns, Rockefeller noted.
The hearing followed a year-long Commerce Committee examination of how data brokers collect, compile, and sell consumer information for marketing purposes. In anticipation of the hearing, the committee issued a majority staff report summarizing the investigation into how data brokers collect, compile, and sell consumer information.
operate in secrecy with limited statutory consumer protections.
At the hearing, Rockefeller noted that several of the largest data brokers continue to resist oversight. Rockefeller put them on notice that he was not satisfied with their responses to the committee's investigation and that he intended to take further steps to get the requested information.
FTC testimony. Jessica Rich, Director of the FTC Bureau of Consumer Protection, presented the Commission's testimony, entitled "What Information Do Data Brokers Have on Consumers, and How Do They Use It?" The Commission is committed to understanding and addressing consumer privacy issues posed by the data broker industry, according to the testimony.
The Commission is pursuing a three-pronged strategy to protect consumer interests in the data broker context: (1) aggressive enforcement actions to ensure that data brokers comply with the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) where applicable; (2) conduct research and issue reports examining the practices of the data broker industry; and (3) educate businesses about their legal responsibilities and consumers regarding how their data is disseminated. Rich noted that the FTC's own report on the data broker industry is expected to be released in the coming months.
With respect to enforcement activity, Rich discussed the agency's 2012 action against Spokeo, Inc. for allegedly failing to take steps to protect consumers in the sale of Internet and social media data in the employment screening context in violation of the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) and deceptively posting "independent" endorsements of their service on news and technology websites in violation of the FTC Act. The consent order contained strong injunctive relief and an $800,000 civil penalty, according to the testimony. Also mentioned was the FTC's case against ChoicePoint, Inc., which resulted in the FTC's largest FCRA civil penalty to date.
Rich called for transparency in the industry. Providing more information to consumers will lead to more consumer trust, she suggested. Rich said that the agency is striving for flexible standards in light of technological changes in the data-driven economy.
World Privacy Forum testimony. Pam Dixon, Executive Director of the World Privacy Forum, urged action. She called for a multi-prong approach to bring fairness, accuracy, and transparency to consumers regarding data broker activities. This approach would include, among other things, better enforcement and a consumer opt-out requirement for data brokers.
Industry testimony. Tony Hadler, Senior Vice President of Government Affairs and Public Policy at Experian, the only corporate representative on the witness panel, defended the industry practices. "Experian believes responsible information sharing significantly enhances economic productivity in the United States and provides many benefits to consumers," Hadley said. He added that the industry wants to be transparent, but in a meaningful way to consumers.


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Cleveland Indians to Begin Process of Changing Name
Luke McGrath
Dec 15 2020, 1:43 AM Dec 15 2020, 2:46 AM December 15 2020, 1:43 AM December 15 2020, 2:46 AM
(Bloomberg) -- The Cleveland Indians said Monday that it will change its name after completing a review process it first announced in July.
"Hearing firsthand the stories and experiences of Native American people, we gained a deep understanding of how tribal communities feel about the team name and the detrimental effects it has on them," team owner Paul Dolan said in a statement. "While Indians will always be a part of our history, it is time to move forward and work to unify our stakeholders and fans through a new name."
The name change will occur over a phased process that will take time, and the team will continue to use its current name and branding until a new one is determined, Dolan said. The New York Times reported that the club was planning to drop the name on Sunday.
Read More: From July 13, Washington NFL Team Bows to Pressure, Drops 'Redskins' Name


Graham has been on faculty for 26 years: first as Lecturer – then Senior Lecturer - in Systematic Theology, Vice-Principal Academic and presently as Director of Research. Areas of interest orbit the area of trinitarian theology: Christology, Trinity, Pneumatology, Anthropology, Atonement, Personhood, Relational Theology. Graham teaches the following BA Theology modules: Level 4 - Introduction to Theology, God & Creation; Level 5 - Person & Work of Christ, Relational Theology; Level 6 - Person & Work of the Spirit, as well as various project supervisions. He teaches Trinitarian Personhood on the MAiTh and is a an experienced research supervisor with over 23 successful PhD supervisions. He has published various books on Edward Irving as well as on Christology and Pneumatology. He is presently working on a number of projects: an Introduction to Theology text book, Sacrifice & Atonement and Explorations in Relational Theology. In addition to these academic interests, Graham is a passionate enthusiast of Modern Art and uses any excuse to take students, undergrad or postgrad, around Tate Modern, or any art gallery with visual theologies/atheologies to see and discuss! Graham is husband of Hilary, an LBC/LST graduate, and father of Flora, currently studying Modern Languages at Cambridge. Graham and Hilary worship at their local ecclesial laboratory (commonly known a 'church') constituted by other believers who use any excuse to have meals together. He is an avid dog walker to Charlie Wills, possibly the shyest Shetland Sheepdog in Norfolk, where they all enjoy walks on deserted golden beaches.


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Military Campaign Stories
Famous Army Air Force Units – 336th Fighter...
Famous Army Air Force Units – 336th Fighter Squadron
The annals of Air Force history are rich with the performance and accomplishments of individual units, but often reflect specific battles, a conflict, or other such moments in time. Due to ever-changing budgets, technology, restructuring, and more, tenure alone is a barrier to the creation of longstanding unit heritage and tradition. Nonetheless, select organizations can trace a significant lineage with associated individual and group exploits. Perhaps not well known to other than their sister units, the 336th Fighter Squadron is one such organization, serving with distinction for eighty years while continually reinventing themselves to embrace advancing fighter aircraft and technology.
History of the 336th Fighter Squadron
The earliest roots of the 336th Fighter Squadron track to World War II prior to entry of the United States, then known as 133rd Eagle Squadron. The unit was constituted in August 1941 (Coltishall, England) as the third of three British fighter squadrons manned by American volunteers. Interestingly, the remaining two Eagle Squadrons (71st and 121st) were transferred to US control along with the 133rd in September 1942, becoming the 334th and 335th Fighter Squadrons, respectively. Though thousands volunteered only 244 pilots were commissioned by the RAF and by VE Day, 107 had been killed and 34 were captured. Under 8th Air Force Fighter Command, the three units aligned to form the 4th Fighter Group, "one of the most distinguished fighter units in the world and one of only two Air Force units that trace their histories to a foreign country". Initially flying the Hawker Hurricane followed by four different models of the legendary Supermarine Spitfire, then followed by the US P-47 and P-51, the group popularized their motto "Fourth but First": first fighters to use belly tanks, first to penetrate Germany, first to accompany bombers to Germany, and first to accomplish the England-to-Russia shuttle. Perhaps most noteworthy was credit as the first unit to down jet aircraft introduced by the Germans.
By war's end in the European Theatre of Operations (ETO) the group was credited with 1,016 enemy aircraft destroyed and thirty-eight aces, more than any fighter group in the 8th Air Force and earning the first Distinguished Unit Citation for the 336th. Among the top ten US aces in the 336th were Don Gentile (26 kills, surpassing Eddie Rickenbacker's WWI record), John Godfrey (18 kills) and Vermont Garrison (17 kills).
The 336th Fighter Squadron was idled briefly from November 1945 to September 1946 but reactivated in response to growing cold war tensions and the need to re-arm. But this time the unit was designated a jet-propelled fighter squadron, introducing new aircraft, tactics (e.g., night operations) and giving rise to the nickname Rocketeers. Following training with the F-80 Shooting Star the unit transitioned to F-86 Sabre jets and prepared for deployment to Korea, now part of the 4th Fighter-Interceptor Group.
The Squadron Performed with Distinction in the Korean War
Just as in World War II, the squadron performed with distinction in the Korean War (December 1950- July 1953) and recorded a series of landmark firsts: first to fly the F-86 Sabre in combat, first to shoot down a MIG-15 (Lt. Col. Bruce Hinton, Commander 336th Squadron), and first to engage in an all-jet air battle. To accomplish the MIG kill Hinton mimicked flight behaviors and call signs of the outdated F-80, and once engaged, unleashed the enhanced combat capabilities of the F-86. All said and done, the 4th Fighter-Interceptor Group destroyed 504 enemy aircraft, more than fifty percent of the Korean War's total, producing twenty-four aces and earning the 336th squadron a second and third Distinguished Unit Citation. One of these aces, Robinson "Robbie" Risner, is credited with one-hundred combat missions (8 kills) and would later set a transatlantic speed record flying the new F-100, ending his career as a Brigadier General.
On the heels of the Korean War Cease Fire in 1953, the 336th deployed globally to be front and center in all US interests: Cuban Missile Crisis, USS Pueblo Incident, Vietnam War with over 8,000 combat missions, NATO Operations, Defense of Saudi Arabia, Liberation and Defense of Kuwait with over 1,300 combat missions, Operation Noble Eagle (defense of the US following 9/11), and the Global War on Terrorism in Afghanistan. In doing so the unit was reconstituted several times to meet the ongoing needs of their assignments: Fighter-Bomber Squadron (1955), Tactical Fighter Squadron (1958), and back to Fighter Squadron (1991). More importantly, the squadron ensured its relevance, combat leadership and readiness with advanced aircraft (following Korea, the F-100, F-105, F-4 and the first fully operational F-15 squadron in the Air Force) and pioneering efforts in state-of-the-art strategies, chief among them the Global Mobility and Rapid Deployment model in use today and eerily similar with early deployment systems of the founding RAF Eagle Squadrons.
In recognizing the accomplishments of the 336th Squadron it is necessary to also appreciate contributions of the broader organization, the 4th Fighter Wing, and those units comprising it. Contemporary conflicts have proven the need for complimentary air, ground, and support resources to coordinate air-ground operations and effectively serve as a force multiplier. In October 2009, this strategy permitted Captains Polidor and Dove of the 335th Squadron to direct air support after expending their own munitions, to prevent a command post from being overrun by Taliban forces and earn the Distinguished Flying Cross. Likewise, in 2010 during his seventh deployment in Afghanistan, Master Sgt. Hood of the 4th Civil Engineer Squadron Explosive Ordnance Disposal was awarded a third Bronze Star for actions while locating and destroying improvised explosive devices, demonstrating heroism outside the cockpit. To universally recognize accomplishments of the 4th Fighter Wing the Air Force Historical Foundation awarded the first-ever General James Doolittle award, "For gallantry, determination, esprit de corps, and superior management of joint operations in accomplishing its mission under difficult and hazardous conditions in multiple conflicts" (June 2011).
The 336th Squadron is not a household name, but perhaps it should be. For eighty years, an organization committed to the defense of our country and freedom around the world, built on the heart and heroism of volunteers. Stephen Hawking once suggested "each generation stands on the shoulders of those who have gone before them", leveraging the culture and exploits of their predecessors. Isaac Newton went still further to declare," if I have seen further it's because I have stood on the shoulders of giants". The 336th and its sister squadrons comprising the 4th Fighter Wing are among the elite, with a legacy of courage, devotion, and excellence reaching back to the RAF Eagle Squadrons. However, this heritage is equally an obligation for current generations to provide requisite leadership for new generations, paying it forward to take their place walking in the footprints of those giants who came before them.
Tags: 335th Fighter Squadrons, 336th Fighter Squadron, 4th Fighter Group, 4th Fighter Wing, 8th Air Force Fighter Command, Air Force history, Brigadier General, Bronze Star, Cuban Missile Crisis, Distinguished Flying Cross, Distinguished Unit Citation, Don Gentile, Eagle Squadron, European Theatre of Operations (ETO), F-100, F-105, F-80 Shooting Star, F-86 Sabre jets, General James Doolittle, Global War on Terrorism in Afghanistan, Hawker Hurricane, John Godfrey, Korean War, Korean War Cease Fire in 1953, Liberation and Defense of Kuwait, MiG-15, P-51, RAF, RAF Eagle Squadrons, Robinson "Robbie" Risner, Supermarine Spitfire, US P-47, USS Pueblo Incident, VE Day, Vermont Garrison, World War II
JOHNPERELLI PERELLI on August 26, 2022 at 19:26
6100 CAMRON SQD WE KEPT ALL THE C-130S FLYING IN NAM 1966067 OUT OF TACHIKAWA AFB JAPAN


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OwnInvestGiveCollectExperience
https://www.barrons.com/articles/reed-krakoff-on-tiffanys-past-and-future-51569607200
Reed Krakoff on Tiffany's Past and Future
Joseph V. Amodio
Photograph by Inez & Vinoodh
Everyone loves a great comeback story, which is why the fashion world has followed the trajectory of luxury brandmeister Reed Krakoff with such enthusiasm.
Headlines have tracked the creative director's rise (resuscitating Tommy Hilfiger, then transforming Coach from forgettable handbag also-ran to international megabrand), then fall (Krakoff's own namesake label launched in 2009 with much fanfare and shuttered in 2015), and now rise (he assumed the newly created role of chief artistic officer at Tiffany & Co. in 2017, brought in with CEO Alessandro Bogliolo to refresh the 182-year-old brand).
Krakoff, 55, may be new to the world of jewelry but not to the aura of Tiffany. Born to a wealthy family in Weston, Conn., he and his wife, Delphine, an interior designer, and their four children today split their time between a mansion in tony New Canaan, Conn., and a Manhattan townhouse.
Penta decided to check in with Krakoff, now that he's had time to settle in at Tiffany. He admits there's been a learning curve. Yet despite the ongoing, unpredictable U.S.-China trade war and softening spending by Chinese tourists, Tiffany's worldwide net sales rose 7% to $4.4 billion last year.
Penta: Since your arrival, what has surprised you most about the brand?
Reed Krakoff: There are probably a couple of answers. I grew up with the brand, but didn't realize the magnitude of it. People have a deep love of its history. Then there's the level of commitment to craftsmanship. There are no shortcuts, whether it's a sterling silver keychain or a $20 million 100-carat yellow diamond. That's something you can forget about when brands get big.
You've been brought in to change things—but not too much!
Right, no problem. [He laughs.] That's the forever question—how do you move forward without losing what made the brand arguably the most desirable brand in the world? There's trial and error, a lot of exploration. I'm very fortunate, as Tiffany's first creative director, to be able to bring different areas [of the company] together; to tell our story in a unified way. So, if there's a new collection, it may spark an idea for store interiors, which leads to marketing, which leads to events—everything works together. It's a different way of working in the jewelry business. It's more typical of the fashion world.
Tiffany is perhaps the only brand that evokes such a powerful connection to a color—Tiffany blue. You see a box in that iconic shade and it says so much. What is it about that shade that makes it so recognizable?
I don't think there's a simple answer. Tiffany has been around many, many, many years, and the experience people have had at Tiffany of finding something to commemorate a pivotal moment in their lives [has been repeated] over and over. You know, a color is a color but this is imbued with such a sense of excitement.
Can you imagine changing the shade? Updating it?
" I'm working in the service of an incredible brand. That's first and foremost what I think about. "
No. It's what every brand dreams to have. It has to be treated with respect.
Let's talk about Tiffany's annual Blue Book Collection.
It's become a laboratory for our most forward-thinking and fantastical designs. It's the place where ideas begin and are later adapted to the more commercial collection. It's the place to dream. A recent example of that: We developed a new stone-cutting technique. It took almost a year to make one piece—a small piece—because of its scale and intricacy. It's as if you had a sheet of diamonds that were fragmented and cracked, with very minimal space between each one. So each stone has to be cut and linked to the next, which is just enormously difficult to do. People weren't sure we could do it.
[The technique was used in several 2019 Blue Book pieces, including a dragonfly brooch with more than seven carats of custom-cut diamonds, and a 16-plus carat diamond choker debuted by Lady Gaga at this year's Screen Actors Guild Awards.]
Each piece is like a little sculpture. How does the process for a new work begin?
I don't really believe in spending a lot of time on inspiration boards. I get inspired as I'm working. We start with more an attitude, sort of a feel.
People dress more casually now. Does that worry you?
One of the things making us unique is that we create pieces that are meant to be worn.
As opposed to being stored away…
…and only brought out on special occasions?
These are valuable pieces, but should be part of your wardrobe. That's what American style is about.
Do you use yourself as a guidepost? You're launching a new men's collection this fall. Have you been asking, "Would I wear that?"
It's an interesting question. I'm not someone who wears jewelry at all. I have one ring made in the shape of a rubber band, and that's the only thing I wear. It's my wedding band.
What? You're an impostor, sir!
But…[he chuckles]. I've always found it's more intuition. I'm working in the service of an incredible brand. That's first and foremost what I think about. How does [any new piece] move forward the idea of Tiffany? How does this fit in historically? And how does this take advantage of what Tiffany can do uniquely? All those things come into play.


text:
Eaton Denies Intent to Spin Off Unit in $3B Investor Suit
Louis Gottlieb argues on behalf of investors harmed by power company
In an attempt to throw out a proposed class action alleging Eaton Corporation cost shareholders $3 billion when it could not spin off its automotive division tax free, Firm partner Louis Gottlieb argued on behalf of the proposed class. Gottlieb noted, while there was no legal bar to a spinoff, there was an economic one, since it could not be done tax-free.
"The ability to do it in the real world was taken away," he said. "It would have been economically impossible to spin off the automotive division in that time period."
But Gottlieb said that company officials repeatedly implied to analysts that Eaton could spin off the division whenever it wanted. "They continually implied and misrepresented that they had the ability to do it," adding later, "By ability I don't mean the theoretical ability, but the practical ability."
He told the judge that when the tax implications became clear, the stock experienced its largest price drop in six years and three analysts downgraded it the next day.


Stay dry in the rain with a fabulous Harry Potter umbrella. These adult and child's umbrellas will keep the weather from getting to you, and they look absolutely stunning too. International delivery is available.
Stay dry in the rain with this wonderful children's Harry Potter umbrella depicting Harry, Ron and Hermione's journey to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry as first year students. Featuring beautiful deep colors and images of Hogwarts Castle looming in the distance, this Harry Potter umbrella will bring back memories of that extraordinary moment in Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone every time you use it.
This navy and orange child's Harry Potter umbrella features the image of Harry working at his cauldron while his Potions class instructor, Professor Severus Snape, looms in the background. The highlight of this umbrella is its brilliantly styled handle, which is actually a figure of Harry himself!


Many sporting activities are designed to be competitive because of the thrill and pleasure that is accrued by the winners of the games. The activities are watched by many people and the more dangerous it seems the more people flock to watch. The participants need to be easily identifiable thus most have matching attires so that their fans can identify with them and cheer on when they make good plays. Due to these facts making Custom racing shirts is very important because the customers need to know their players mostly because all of them are normally wearing helmets which make it very hard to distinguish them.
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text:
Strictly Come Dancing star Rose Ayling-Ellis is tipped to make a fortune as the BBC's new Stacey Dooley
Latest Strictly Come Dancing 2021 news on Series 30 judges, dancers and contestants here
By Katie Hind Showbusiness Editor For The Mail On Sunday
Strictly Come Dancing star Rose Ayling-Ellis is tipped to become one of the BBC's highest profile faces.
The public has fallen in love with the 27-year-old deaf actress, particularly after she and professional dance partner Giovanni Pernice performed part of their dance in silence to raise awareness of deafness.
With the EastEnders star now among the favourites to win the competition, Corporation chiefs are understood to be in discussions for her to front documentaries and other entertainment programmes, rather like Stacey Dooley, who won Strictly three years ago and signed a deal worth more than £200,000 a year with the BBC.
The public has fallen in love with the 27-year-old deaf actress, particularly after she and professional dance partner Giovanni Pernice performed part of their dance in silence to raise awareness of deafness. Pictured performing last night
Miss Ayling-Ellis has won acclaim for raising awareness of the deaf community.
As well as talking about having subtitled TV programmes, she is set to heap pressure on social media companies to put them on videos such as those on Instagram Stories.
One source said: 'Rose is a star and is exactly what the BBC need. The nation has fallen in love with her.
'Everything about her is so charming and lovely.
'She has won a fan base of millions of people in the matter of a few weeks.
'Society makes being deaf difficult': Strictly's Rose... Strictly Come Dancing: Tilly Ramsay and Nikita Kuzmin top...
Miss Ayling-Ellis and Mr Pernice, 31, reduced Strictly's judges to tears when their chosen track, Symphony by Clean Bandit featuring Zara Larsson, fell silent lbut they continued to dance in a performance last week dedicated to the deaf community, showing how Miss Ayling-Ellis cannot hear the music as she dances
'She resonates with the young and the old, which is exactly what the BBC needs right now – and there are a number of projects being discussed for her after the show.'
Miss Ayling-Ellis and Mr Pernice, 31, reduced Strictly's judges to tears when their chosen track, Symphony by Clean Bandit featuring Zara Larsson, fell silent but they continued to dance.
The performance was dedicated to the deaf community and showed how Miss Ayling-Ellis cannot hear the music as she dances.
The couple later described it as their 'special moment' and it is tipped to win the Bafta TV Moment of the Year prize at next year's ceremony.
Kevin Clifton and Stacey Dooley pictured on Strictly Come Dancing in 2018
Corporation chiefs are understood to be in discussions for Ayling-Ellis to front documentaries and other entertainment programmes, rather like Stacey Dooley, who won Strictly three years ago and signed a deal worth more than £200,000 a year with the BBC. Pictured at the Naturo SuperDog Awards
Last night, Miss Ayling-Ellis and Mr Pernice scored 37 out of 40 for their quickstep to Love Is An Open Door from the Broadway musical version of Frozen.
Cynthia Erivo, who joined the judging panel in place of Craig Revel Horwood, who tested positive for Covid, awarded a maximum ten and described the routine as 'gorgeous' and 'joyful'.
The leaderboard was topped by TV presenter Tilly Ramsay and Nikita Kuzmin, who scored a perfect 40.
McFly singer Tom Fletcher and Amy Dowden, along with BBC Breakfast presenter Dan Walker and Nadiya Bychkova, were joint bottom with 31 points each.
Strictly Come Dancing star Rose Ayling-Ellis tipped to make a fortune as the BBC's new Stacey Dooley


Ashland, MS – Designed for street or racing applications, these die cast deep aluminum pans from TCI allow for a higher fluid capacity and have patent-pending design features to assist in removing heat from Powerglide transmissions.
Built to be the very best Powerglide pans on the market, TCI Die Cast Deep Aluminum Pans for Powerglide Transmissions incorporate patent-pending, heat dissipating "inverted-dimples" that increase the surface area inside the pan. These unique "heat suckers" pull heat toward the exterior of the pan – ultimately lowering the temperature of the fluid. On the outside of the pan, exterior fins are slightly angled to create a funnel effect which increases the air speed across the surface. These pans are available either powder coated or in raw die cast aluminum, and both use a gasket-style seal instead of the o-ring featured in part #528220 pans. Both options feature lower price points than the original pan but still provide the same level of Powerglide heat reduction. All hardware, gaskets, filter and filter extension included.


text:
Q: How to colour MatPlotLib graph with gradient colour I have a graph in python I've made with matplotlib with the following code:
def to_percent(y, position):
    s = str(250 * y)
    if matplotlib.rcParams['text.usetex'] is True:
        return s + r'$\%$'
    else:
        return s + '%'

distance = df['Distance']
perctile = np.percentile(distance, 90) # claculates 90th percentile
bins = np.arange(0,perctile,2.5)  # creates list increasing by 2.5 to 90th percentile
plt.hist(distance, bins = bins, normed=True)
formatter = FuncFormatter(to_percent)  #changes y axis to percent
plt.gca().yaxis.set_major_formatter(formatter)
plt.axis([0, perctile, 0, 0.10])  #Defines the axis' by the 90th percentile and 10%Relative frequency
plt.xlabel('Length of Trip (Km)')
plt.title('Relative Frequency of Trip Distances')
plt.grid(True)
plt.show()

What I'd like to know is, is it possible to colour the bars with gradient instead of block colour, like in this picture from excel.

I've not been able to find any information on this.

A: Take a look at the gradient_bar.py example from the matplotlib documentation.
The basic idea is that you don't use the hist() method from pyplot, but build the barchart yourself by using imshow()  instead. The first argument to imshow() contains the color map which will be displayed inside of the box specified by the extent argmument.
Here's a simplified version of the example cited above that should get you on the track. It uses the values from your Excel example, and a color map that uses the CSS colors 'dodgerblue' and 'royalblue' for a linear gradient.
from matplotlib import pyplot as plt
from matplotlib import colors as mcolors

values = [22, 15, 14, 10, 7, 5, 4, 3, 3, 2, 2, 1, 1, 1, 1, 7]

# set up xlim and ylim for the plot axes:
ax = plt.gca()
ax.set_xlim(0, len(values))
ax.set_ylim(0, max(values))

# Define start and end color as RGB values. The names are standard CSS color
# codes.
start_color = mcolors.hex2color(mcolors.cnames["dodgerblue"])
end_color = mcolors.hex2color(mcolors.cnames["royalblue"])

# color map:
img = [[start_color], [end_color]]

for x, y in enumerate(values):
    # draw an 'image' using the color map at the
    # given coordinates
    ax.imshow(img, extent=(x, x + 1, 0, y))

plt.show()


text:
Cambridge Analytica: 61,000 Belgians affected by data theft informed
Cambridge Analytica, using a personality quiz to which 270,000 individuals responded, harvested the data of 87 million people in 2014.© Belga
As of Monday, Facebook will warn its 87 million users affected by data theft from the company Cambridge Analytica. Amongst these are 60,957 Belgians. They were specifically in contact with a given individual, having uploaded a malicious software application, which sent their data to Cambridge Analytica.
The business Cambridge Analytica, using a personality quiz to which 270,000 individuals responded, harvested the data of 87 million people in 2014. The overall Facebook user total harvested included quiz participants' "Facebook friends". The total figure is the most recent given by Facebook. The British company thus had the means to build a valuable database, before being hired by Donald Trump's campaign team. The company then used all such data for political ends.
The majority of individuals affected by this scandal are American users. However, Facebook has informed the European Commission that 2.7 million such people are European citizens, among which nearly 61,000 are Belgian. All of these members of the social network will be warned by a banner at the top of their post and news feed, as of today.
Mark Zuckerberg, the founder and CEO of Facebook, is due to appear before Congress to give evidence to its members on Tuesday and Wednesday. In particular, the young billionaire must explain how it was possible for his group to lose the data of tens of millions of its members in this way.


text:
Q&A for Turnitin
Delaying Public Access of Printed Theses/Dissertations
Altering Electronic Thesis Authorization
Regulations on the Application for Thesis Patent Right
Specifications for the Use of Electronic Resources
Regulations of Borrowing Magazines
Book Search Service
Instructions for the Use of Book Drops
University System of Taipei
Nation Document Delivery Service
Booking for Guided Tour of the library
Audiovisual Recommendations
Databases Recommended
Periodical Recommended
Refund of Borrower's Card Deposit
Application for New Freshman Borrower's Cards
Instructions for the Use of Wireless Network
Meet Turnitin
Problems about your account login
Problems about uploading the manuscript
Problems about originality check reports
1.What Turnitin can do for me?
Turnitin can help you conduct originality check for your papers and a variety of electronic sources (such as journals, databases, e-books, and open domains), so that you can confirm again whether there is omission in the list of literature and whether there is a suspicion of excessive citations before you publish the paper, so as to improve the quality of paper.
2.How many sources are currently in the check database?
The check database includes the student papers, public webpage information, and journal publications in crossref.org. For the details, please see http://www.ithenticate.com/products/crossref-similarity-check.
1.Can I enter traditional Chinese for the title of course and name?
Yes, the interface is in Chinese and can support traditional Chinese characters. However, the system may find it hard to recognize a few certain Chinese characters. So, it is recommended to sign up with the English name if your name contains less-common Chinese characters.
2.What if I don't receive the notification about account activation?
(1) The notification may be judged as spam by your email system. please check your spam folder first;
(2) If there is no notification in your spam folder, please notify the manager to resend the notification letter, or click [login] on the first page, then click [forget your password], enter the email and last name when you applied for your account. For the secret security question, please click [forget the answer], the system will resend the letter about resetting your password to your email. Please reset the password within 24 hours;
(3) If you still fail to receive the notification letter after you try the above methods, please confirm with the administrator in your unit whether the email system has blocked the email from @ turnitin.com, and if so, please open the permission
3.What if I forget my password or cannot log in consistently?
Please click [login] on the first page, then click [forget your password], enter the email address and last name when you applied for Turnitin account, and then enter the answer to the secret security question, and the system will ask you to reset the password. If you forget the answer to the secret security question, please click [forget the answer] and the system will send a prompt about resetting the password to your mailbox. Please reset the password within 24 hours.
4.If a teacher sets the manuscript to the standard storage mode (the system copies the submitted manuscript into Turnitin's check database), is my paper visible to other users?
No! If the source for check comes from the student assignments collected by Turnitin, the system will not display the full text of the paper in the check database, but will only display the organization to which the belongs, and if a user wants to see the full text, a request to view this manuscript will be sent, and the course instructor of the author writing the original paper will be notified by Turnitin. The user will be contacted if the author agrees.
1.When uploading the paper, you find the file cannot be uploaded consistently. Why? And what are the file formats supported by Turnitin?
Please check if the format and size of the uploaded file do not meet the following requirements: the content of the file uploaded into Turnitin must be at least 20 words, the file size shall be less than 40MB (or less than 2 million characters), and the length of file shall be less than 400 pages. Compressed files only support * .zip, and word space cannot be too large (for example: l i k e t h i s). Turnitin currently supports only the following file formats for generating originality reports:
•Microsoft Word® (.doc / .docx)
•OpenOffice Text (.odt)
•Google Docs via Google Drive™ (.gdoc files are NOT acceptable)
•WordPerfect® (.wpd)
•PostScript (.ps/.eps)
•Adobe® PDF
•Microsoft PowerPoint® (.pptx, .ppt, .ppsx, and .pps)
•Microsoft Excel® (.xls and .xlsx)
•HTML
•Rich text format (.rtf)
•Plain text (.txt)
•Hangul Word Processor file (.hwp)
Please note that Turnitin does not support the following file formats:
•Microsoft® Works (.wps) file types.
•Apple Pages file types.
•Spreadsheets created outside of Microsoft Excel (i.e. .ods).
•GDOC*** files (.gdoc) which are just links to online Google Document files, but don't actually contain text or the document's content. Google Drive must be used to upload Google Docs.
Therefore, if you need to check the files that do not support the above file formats, please re-save and forward the contents to word 97 - 2003 or TXT or RTF file format (and select the encode UTF-8), and then upload the file to Turnitin for originality check.
2.What is the reason for the unreadable code after I upload the file?
It may be that the content or characters of the file influence the check. It is recommended that you remove the contents in page heading and page footing, frame and graphs, and select the commonly used fonts (such as: Times New Roman or Ariel), and save the as a TXT or RTF file format. Select the UTF-8 code and upload it to Turnitin for originality check.
1.The results of originality check fail to be displayed for a long time, why?
(1) It is possibly due to the delay of network and you need to refresh the browser page;
(2) If the content exceeds 100 pages, the system needs more time for check. It is recommended to log in to check the report later;
(3) If a student has uploaded papers more than three times, the student has to wait 24 hours to produce new reports;
(4) Check if there are errors for the instructor's advanced settings of assignments. if so, change the errors into the correct options, for example: under [generate similar reports for files submitted by students], [deadline] is selected incorrectly, indicating that reports will not be generated until the deadline.
2.I see my previously uploaded papers in the check sources. What should I do if I want to delete it, but I has deleted the previously submitted paper and could not find the document code?
Please re-upload the manuscript for check, and provide the manuscript code to the administrator to contact the original reference and delete it. In order to protect the author's rights and interests, Turnitin stipulates that the action of deleting the manuscript must be done by the author who provided the submission code to the school administrator, and the administrator will send the email to Turnitin for application. Typically, the delete action can be completed and replied within three working days.
3.What is the definition of the percentage of different colors in the check report?
For example, if the total number of words in the original article is 1000 words, the total percentage of similarity shown on the interface is 43%, and there are three main sources of similarity, which are 17%, 14% and 12% respectively.
This means, among the 1000 words in the original text, 43 per cent (430 words) are suspected to be similar to other sources. The first similarity source has 170 same words, accounting for 17 per cent of the original text; After such 170 words are deducted from 1000 words of the original text, the remaining 830 words are checked with the second similarity source. As a result, there are 140 same words, accounting for 14%; then, after the 170 words and 140 words (310 words in total) from the first and second similarity sources are deducted, the remaining 690 words are checked with the third similarity source. As a result, there are 120 same words, accounting for 12%; finally, add up the percentages of each similarity source: (17% + 14% + 12%) = 43%, that is, the total similarity percentage, which will not exceed 100%.
The number of words from same similarity source shown in [Match Overview] may be less than the number shown in [All source], because the system will delete some words in order to find the optimized similarity source.
4.What does the percentage in All Source mean in the check report?
For example, if the total number of words in the original article is 1000 words, the total percentage of similarities shown on the interface is 44%, and there are multiple similarity sources below, which are 25%, 18%, and 16% respectively.
This means that 44 per cent of the 1000 words in the original text are similar to other sources. The first similarity source has 250 same words, accounting for 25 per cent of the original text; and the 1000 words of the original text are checked with the second similarity source. As a result, there are 180 same words, accounting for 18%; 1000 words in the original text are checked with the third similarity source. As a result, there are 160 same words, accounting for 16%; It does not matter, even if the three similarity sources have repeated Chinese characters, but the percentage of each similarity source cannot be added up, otherwise it will exceed 100%.
5.Is there a clear definition for the source and number in the downloaded PDF check report? (For example, the web page 2%, student manuscripts 5%, what do they mean?)
For example, if the total number of words in the original article is 1000 words, the PDF report shows a total of 30 per cent of similarity, and there are three main sources of similarity, namely, 25 per cent of Internet page information, 10 per cent of student manuscripts and 10 per cent of journal publications. It means: among the 1000 words in the original text, 30 per cent (300 words) are suspected to be similar to other sources. and the specific details are: 25 per cent (250 words) of web page information and 10 per cent (100 words) of student manuscripts, and 10 per cent (100 words) of periodical publications.
Keep in mind, do not add up the percentage of each source (25% + 10% + 10% = 45%), because student manuscripts may refer to the same webpage information, or webpage information may contain the contents of publications. Thus, words in the same paragraph may be overlapped.
6.In the reports of originality check, is there any difference in the definition of number of Chinese words and English words, if the exclusion of a small number of words is set up?
The definition of the number of words is: an English single word counts as one word, not an English letter; a Chinese character counts as a Chinese word. If you set an exclusion of less than 10 words, it represents the exclusion of less than 10 similar English words or 10 Chinese characters.
7.In the originality check report, after the exclusion is set, the percentage increases. Does it mean that there is a calculation problem for the system check?
The probable reason is that: the total number of words in the uploaded file is 1000 words, and the check report indicates there are 240 similar words, that is, 240 words / 1000 words = 24%. If we assume that there are 100 words in the bibliography reference, and the exclusion of bibliography reference is set up, it means there are 900 words which can be checked. Then, there are still 240 similar words in 900 words, that is 240 words / 900 words = 26%, which is why the percentage is likely to increase after exclusion.
8.The total percentage in the originality check report needs to be less than what % can be considered "appropriate"?
The similarity percentage of Turnitin does not represent an absolute indicator of the degree of plagiarism.
The low total percentage of similarity does not mean that there must be no plagiarism: it is possible that the percentage of similarity will be low because of the following situations. For example, a document is referred, but Turnitin database fails to include such a document, or the document contains the unchecked box.
A high total percentage of similarity does not necessarily mean that there must be plagiarism: it is possible that the high percentage of similarity is due to the following situations. For example: terms that cannot be defined as plagiarism (such as special nouns, commonly used phrases, directory formats, institution names, reference lists). Quoting the text of other people's works with references to the sources, as well as checking students' own articles, including the submitted assignments or published articles.
The percentage of similarity can be reduced through the function of filter and exclusion, or asking teachers to exclude certain sources of similarity. Please see http://www.igroup.com.tw/turnitinithenticate/ or https://goo.gl/57Lmqk.
In view of the above situation, it is difficult to define an appropriate percentage value of similarity. Students and teachers are suggested to discuss the criteria for percentage of similarity, or refer to the criteria established by the faculty. You can also refer to the official website of the periodical publishing house where you want to contribute.
In addition to viewing the total percentage value, it is recommended that you also pay attention to the percentage of each similarity source in the report.
<1%-3%
If several words or sentences are similar, it is recommended that you should not need to specifically view the source.
It may be several sentences or a small paragraph are similar. If only one source shows this percentage value, it may not represent improper behavior, but if many sources do, it means that this article may be suspicious.
It may contain several similar paragraphs, indicating that the proportion of references to other people's works in this article is high and academic norms may not be met.
There may be a whole page or several pages with words similar to a single source, it is recommended that the teacher review the degree of similarity with the source.
There is a high possibility of using other people's words in cases that do not meet the academic norms. Teachers are suggested to review similarity reports in detail.


First create a suitable alter or shrine in a corner of a room where you live. have a white candle, an urn and some incense ready(you will light them later).
On a piece of paper write down the various things you want to put into the sacred flame. You can ask for things you want and for things to let go of, you can ask for help or guidance. The flame is the exorcising power that removes the obstructions standing in the path of your fulfillment of the things you desire.
When you have prepared your list, light the white candle, light the incense and seat yourself in front of an urn you wish to burn in. (this can be a small bowl or anything you can put your list in while it is burning). You will Ignite the paper in the flame, letting it burn in the urn as you intone the following ritual.
I now supplicate the higher forces to remove all evil entities and spirits that are obstructing my flow of good. I ask of the sacred flame that it burn away all obstructions and objections from whatever source. I recognize the almighty presence of the golden sun, and now ask this divine source of life and light to illuminate the dark places of my mind and body removing all negative forces of whatever kind and bringing me fulfillment of these dreams and desires.
As the sacred flame rises in the celestial realms, it brings my dreams and desires before the illuminated throne of thy mercy and grace. As the flames ascend, it leaves behind all the burned out ashes of failure, fear, worry, hate, sickness, poverty, loneliness and limitation. I am freed of these dark forces forever and now only the light of infinite truth, infinite good, infinite peace, infinite riches, and infinite love remains.
You may then cast the burnt offerings to the wind.


Landscape design and curb appeal can be greatly enhanced using custom carved French limestone wall and market fountains. Such a water feature carved by our craftsmen complements the front of the house or backyard landscaping. The French Estaillade limestone that we use is a soft but frost resistant material that weathers extremely fast and will look like antique limestone in a very short time. Our French limestone fountains are still hand carved and distressed by craftsmen in France with the same techniques and care as was done in past centuries. No two French limestone fountains are alike. Color variations in the limestone as well as different techniques from craftsmen to craftsmen will make each fountain unique. Vintage Elements complements these limestone fountains with aged cast iron spigots that resemble their antique and centuries old predecessors. Our fountain designs are based on existing fountains throughout France, giving our customer over 40 choices of fountain designs. If you are shopping for a custom carved limestone fireplace mantel for your house, then you should consider our French hand-carved mantels. Carved by French craftsmen out of beautiful limestone, our French fireplace mantels provide unmatched beauty and are a great design element. They too are carved according to old designs and resemble mantels of farm houses and manor homes of times long past. Besides French limestone fountains and fireplace mantels, Vintage Elements also offers a variety of custom carved limestone products, such as columns, entrance gates, window and door surrounds, medallions and more. If you have a drawing or photo of a fountain, mantel or other object you would like to have carved out of limestone, please contact us and we will provide you with a quote.


text:
Access to water proves key factor in farmland value
Issue Date: August 13, 2014
By Kate Campbell
With drought adding new constraints on the state's water supplies and farmers and ranchers increasingly turning to groundwater to sustain food production, lawmakers now are contemplating bills requiring changes to how groundwater basins are managed. If adopted, opponents said, the bills have the potential to undermine food production, reduce agricultural land values and hamper the overall economy.
Two pieces of legislation were each amended twice last week and now have identical language, requiring assessment of impacts on local ecosystems from groundwater pumping. The measures will be heard in their respective Appropriations Committees this week. The California Farm Bureau Federation and other agricultural and water organizations oppose both measures.
Jack Rice, CFBF associate counsel, warned of unintended consequences from laws that are hastily passed and implemented.
"Figuring out how to improve groundwater management in California requires figuring out the best possible solution for a highly complex problem," Rice said. "That doesn't mean throwing legislation together and passing it before people even have a chance to understand the implications of how a new groundwater management framework will operate. Poorly conceived and executed changes to groundwater management would be very disruptive."
Among the issues hanging in the balance, he said, are farm and ranch land values, which depend on property rights for access to groundwater supplies, particularly when surface water supplies are unreliable due to drought, plus regulatory and water-system constraints.
In summarizing current farm and ranch real estate trends, the California Chapter of the American Society of Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers concluded in its 2014 trends assessment that acute drought threatens many growers this year, and long-term water policy will have long-term ramifications on the farm and ranch sector.
In a presentation to agricultural land appraisers this spring, the association said "property in areas with threatened ground and surface water is at risk, but property in areas with good water will continue to be attractive."
Rice said discussions about potential changes to groundwater management raise questions about the ability of affected property to sustain anticipated cash flow.
"Those kinds of uncertainties can have an impact on the value of underlying assets, such as land values, property improvements and equipment," he said.
The Salinas Valley, which produces much of the nation's fresh produce, is in a unique situation, according to Monterey County Farm Bureau Executive Director Norm Groot.
"We've been working for the past 60 years to manage our water resources—addressing everything from groundwater management and saltwater intrusion to surface supplies and flood control," he said.
Because landowners have been engaged on many issues at the local level, Groot said, "we think another layer of regulation from the state will only hinder what we're doing. It's a hindrance we don't need."
Tony Toso, a Mariposa County rancher and professional farm and ranch land appraiser, said land appraisal values are based "on what has occurred in the rearview mirror," but that how well water is managed at the local level has an impact on values.
"The market is going to start telling me as an appraiser what's happening to land values in specific irrigation districts and groundwater basins based on reliability and quality of water supplies," said Toso, who is a CFBF director.
"We do know groundwater is essential to ensuring a consistent agricultural land value," he said. "Everyone knows that land without water isn't worth much."
Overall, appraisers said California farm and ranch land prices have held steady. However, rangeland without access to water has seen a decline in recent years.
Experts warned that not getting groundwater regulation right has the potential to strip some of California's best farmland of its productive use and set off a decline in asset values.
"It's hard to prove something that could happen in the future," Toso said, "but if you don't analyze water supply problems right, if regulations aren't implemented right, if it's turned into an emotional issue, then asset values could start heading for zero."
Changes to groundwater management regulations could have a "huge" effect on local economies, said Tod Kimmelshue, a senior lender with Northern California Farm Credit, who explained that agricultural lenders always take into account water quantity and reliability for farm operations.
The question lenders need to determine, he said, is what is the highest and best use of a piece of land.
"Farmers need to be heavily involved in deciding who determines beneficial use," said Kimmelshue, who is a past CFBF director. "It's important for groundwater users to start monitoring how much water they're using so they can document how much water they need for beneficial use."
He said lenders are requiring increasingly more information on a property's wells and access to groundwater, adding, "It's a huge part of the collateral we consider when making individual lending decisions. But the impact of poorly designed groundwater management regulations could extend beyond affecting agricultural land values; there could be a ripple effect that moves through local economies from reduced property and business tax revenue and local jobs."
(Kate Campbell is an assistant editor of Ag Alert. She may be contacted at kcampbell@cfbf.com.)
Permission for use is granted, however, credit must be made to the California Farm Bureau Federation when reprinting this item.


text:
Q: Duplicate jar entry-android I added 3rd party .aar file to my app. its runs smoothly without any issue. But when going to create APK file i get duplicate entry error
* What went wrong:
Execution failed for task ':app:transformClassesAndResourcesWithProguardForQaRelease'.
> java.io.IOException: Can't write [/Volumes/***/**/PROJECT/app/build/intermediates/transforms/proguard/qa/release/0.jar] (Can't read [/Users/ayeshdon/.gradle/caches/transforms-2/files-2.1/934a6f302e2712d6028d37a9dc4ccd20/jars/libs/commons-lang3-3.3.2.jar(;;;;;;;**.class)] (Duplicate jar entry [org/apache/commons/lang3/AnnotationUtils$1.class]))

My Gradle file is like this:
implementation fileTree(dir: 'libs', include: ['*.aar', '*.jar'], exclude: [])
implementation (project(":LIBRARYNAME"))

What is wrong here?

A: Whatever that "3rd party .aar file" may be, it complains about some Duplicate jar entry [org/apache/commons/lang3/AnnotationUtils$1.class]; therefore it's either:
implementation (project(":LIBRARYNAME")) {
    exclude group: "org.apache.commons", module: "commons-lang3"
}

Or:
implementation fileTree(dir: "libs", include: ["*.aar", "*.jar"]) {
    exclude group: "org.apache.commons", module: "commons-lang3"
}


This is a make up post, powered by L'Oreal Paris for Marie Claire BLOG AWARDS. And let the show begin.
A soft touch, yet stable by Color Riche, Eye Color Pencil #03 Smoky Taupe and #08 Baby Pink.
Deep glow and enthusiasm for Glam Matte Gloss #513.


BP.com » Cards » Giancarlo StantonYou are not logged in. Click Here to log in or to subscribe.
13 years/$325M (2015-27), plus 2028 club option. Signed extension with Miami 11/19/14, avoiding arbitration. 15:$6.5M, 16:$9M, 17:$14.5M, 18:$25M, 19:$26M, 20:$26M, 21:$29M, 22:$29M, 23-25:$32M, 26:$29M, 27:25M, 28:$25M club option ($10M buyout). Stanton may opt out of contract after 2020. Full no-trade protection. Award bonuses: $50,000 each for Gold Glove, Silver Slugger, All-Star. $0.1M for league MVP. $0.25M for LCS MVP. $0.5M for WS MVP. Perks: right to buy eight season tickets annually and right to buy luxury suite for five games annually. To contribute 1% of salary to club charity. Largest-ever financial guarantee for MLB player. Matches Josh Hamilton for contract with highest average annual value for an outfielder. Matches Ryan Howard for contract with highest average annual value for player with four-plus years of ML service. Acquired by NY Yankees in trade from Miami 12/9/17. As part of the deal, Miami to pay $30M to NY Yankees if Stanton does not exercise right to opt out of the contract after the 2020 season. Miami to pay $5M cash each 7/1 and 10/1 in 2026, 2027 & 2028. Full $30M amount pro-rated over final 10 years of the contract ($3M/year) for purposes of calculating Competitive Balance Tax.
1 year/$6.5M (2014). Re-signed by Miami 1/17/14 (avoided arbitration).
1 year/$0.537M (2013). Renewed by Miami 3/2/13.
1 year/$0.48M (2012). Renewed by Miami 3/2/12.
1 year/$0.416M (2011). Renewed by Florida 3/2/11.
1 year (2010). Contract purchased by Florida 6/8/10.
Drafted by Florida 2007 (2-76) (Notre Dame Academy, Sherman Oaks, Calif.). Signed 8/12/07, $0.475M signing bonus (paid over four years under multi-sport athlete provision).
2017-10-17 20:00:00 (link to chat) Is it me, or does it feel like a foregone conclusion that the Giants will find a way to trade for Giancarlo Stanton? Any idea what package would get it done, maybe something like Chris Shaw, Tyler Beede, Heliot Ramos, Austin Slater, and Steven Okert?
(matzabal from CO) Haha, I'm not so sure it's foregone, but they're an easy spot to visualize him landing. I think a lot of previously rebuilding teams are probably in the running for him, since slotting him in the OF is a good way to suddenly create a good offense. Odds on, I'd say the Giants make a strong, if not the strongest run.
2017-10-23 13:00:00 (link to chat) Gut reaction. Where are Giancarlo Stanton and Christian Yelich playing next season?
2017-06-13 12:00:00 (link to chat) I love what Aaron Judge is doing, but man, I have been hearing some scorching hot takes on him. Already declared better than Giancarlo Stanton? Named a top 5 slugger OF ALL TIME on FS1? Feels like a slap in the face to Stanton given that we've seen power like this before. Should we whoop out the dictionary and look up the term "Recency Bias"?
(Fernando from Miami) Probably, yes. But this is the way that baseball coverage and analysis is going these days. I don't mean to group Rob Parker into that, because he's just a hot take machine in desperate need of new parts, but even so, the drive for #content means making a *very* big deal about anything that could be made a big deal of. So yeah, you get Aaron Judge and is utterly incredible start to this season. It's remarkable, it is fun, and he's just a fascinating guy to watch, so we get this churn around him as a content generator and it froths up into these stupid takes from time to time.
2017-05-15 17:00:00 (link to chat) What does Giancarlo Stanton have to do to regain first round status?
2017-05-25 13:00:00 (link to chat) With the spike in home run balls is Giancarlo Stanton just another pretty good outfielder now? What would he have to do to retain his lofty status among fantasy owners?
2017-05-25 13:00:00 (link to chat) Will Vince and co. totally botch Shinsuke's run? Also, who baseball's king of strong style? Miguel Sano? Giancarlo Stanton? Aaron Judge? Kyle Schwarber?
(Punchoutpappy from First in Flight) How Vince will handle Shinsuke's run is one of the great concerns of my life right now. His match against Dolph at Backlash didn't do anything to ease my concerns. Ultimately, I have to believe his star power will keep him from being completely wasted, but...I understand why you're worried.
2017-05-25 13:00:00 (link to chat) Any outfielders other than the obvious you prefer in keeper leagues to Giancarlo Stanton? Would you rather have Yoan Moncada since power/speed guys are so rare?
2017-05-04 13:00:00 (link to chat) Conforto or Judge rest of career(s)?
2016-12-05 20:00:00 (link to chat) I have a competitive squad in a 14-team H2H mixed dynasty. I'm always trying to balance win now against future competitiveness and have done it pretty well (two titles in four years). Right now I'm trying to evaluate whether it might be worth trying to package Ian Desmond and a prospect (Amed Rosario?) for Giancarlo Stanton. The other owner has a competitive major league roster but an empty farm while I have a deep bench of prospects. Make the offer? Sweeten the offer? Lighten the offer? Stand pat?
2016-05-31 19:00:00 (link to chat) How long is Kevin Newman out for and what type of future do you see him having now?
2016-05-04 13:00:00 (link to chat) Josh Donaldson or Giancarlo Stanton in a dynasty league (keep forever)?
2016-04-21 19:00:00 (link to chat) Who has more raw power: Stanton or Joey Gallo?
2016-03-21 13:00:00 (link to chat) If you were put in charge of the home run derby and knew that 100% of players would accept and participate, what format would you use to maximize its entertainment value?
2016-03-09 19:00:00 (link to chat) If Stanton is completely healthy, how far from home plate could he throw Jose Altuve?
(HRoark from Greensboro) That's a trick question. Giancarlo Stanton is never completely healthy.
2015-12-08 13:00:00 (link to chat) With the inflation of baseball salaries, would position players be better off with fewer years but higher AAV contracts? If I'm Heyward, I don't want to lock myself into a 7 year deal when i can get paid again in my prime in 3-4 years. At the rate they're going, 200 million in 4 years will look like a bargain. I also suppose that's why some pitchers ask for the opt out clause in their contracts, but I haven't heard as much with position players. Your thoughts?
2015-07-23 17:00:00 (link to chat) What's more likely: Giancarlo Stanton is traded, opts out, or finishes his contract with the Marlins?
2015-06-02 18:00:00 (link to chat) How would you rank Joey Gallo, Bryce Harper and Giancarlo Stanton in terms of raw power? Does your ranking change if it is in-game power?
2015-04-16 17:00:00 (link to chat) It's very early but what has been the biggest surprise to you so far this season?
(metsRok from NYC) Kris Bryant hit 43 home runs in a declining offensive era and two offense-depressed parks, in AA and AAA. That's really rare. PECOTA confirms the projection by comping him to Giancarlo Stanton. It's as close to a high-probability success as one can get, based on just one season of full-time playing.
2014-11-18 13:00:00 (link to chat) A new rule has been made that no one who has won MVP or Cy Young before can win it again. Who are your 2015 MVPs and CYs?
2014-09-15 19:30:00 (link to chat) Hey Past Ben, want to guess what the top five names on the MLB home run leaderboard in 2018 look like? Also, congrats on the upcoming five-year anniversary of TINO. The show got much better in year three after Craig was replaced with Hank the Dog.
2014-08-15 14:00:00 (link to chat) Will the Red Sox' offseason this year resemble their "rebuilding" 2012-2013 offseason or is this a different situation?
2014-07-18 14:00:00 (link to chat) Does Carlos Martinez and Oscar Taveras net Giancarlo Stanton?
1. Do you think Carlos Martinez and Oscar Taveras are better than Carlos Correa and George Springer?
2. Do you believe the Astros' trade conversation notes, the ones that Deadspin published, that had the Marlins essentially asking for that for Stanton?
3. Do you think that the Marlins were actually willing to make that move, or just blowing off the Astros by saying "that's what we'd start at", knowing the Astros wouldn't touch it?
2014-07-11 13:00:00 (link to chat) During your tenure at BP, What was your favorite article that you wrote? Favorite piece you edited?
(Dylan from Boston) Probably some of the less serious ones. This, for instance: http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19397. Or Internet Commenters Try to Trade for Giancarlo Stanton. I think about this one a lot: http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=15661. Wasn't the best, but was kind of a turning point, in terms of convincing me that it was okay to cut loose and have fun. My girlfriend gave me the idea, so I owe her for that.
2014-06-26 14:00:00 (link to chat) Do you think Gallo will make enough contact in the Bigs for his 80 tool power to play? Is he more Giancarlo Stanton or Adam Dunn?
2014-05-15 20:00:00 (link to chat) How bright is the Cubs future? What year do they win the World Series and who will be the mvp?
2014-05-19 13:00:00 (link to chat) Do you see the Cubs trading for a guy like Carlos Gonzalez, Jason Heyward or Giancarlo Stanton in the off-season??
2014-02-13 13:00:00 (link to chat) Who is the Roman Reigns of baseball?
(cdgoldstein from DC) I'm not into the wrestlemen stuff at all, so I asked Marc Normandin, who is, what this would entail: "Someone with a monster, limitless ceiling who also looks like a prince."
2014-02-03 13:00:00 (link to chat) How worried are you about Giancarlo Stanton's long term health?
2014-01-02 13:00:00 (link to chat) 20-team dynasty league. Two of the top three teams about to make a trade: Team A is younger, but lacks enough impact pitching to win a title. Team B is creeping up there in age and injury. Assuming both offenses are stacked and the pitching for both is above average or better, Team A sends Giancarlo Stanton, Matt Cain, and 1-1 pick (aka Byron Buxton) for Team B's Hunter Pence, Yu Darvish, 1-3 pick, and Dylan Bundy... fair trade?
2013-11-19 13:00:00 (link to chat) Giancarlo Stanton is wearing a ______ uniform next year? David Price is wearing a _____ uniform next year?
2013-10-23 13:00:00 (link to chat) Aside from Giancarlo Stanton, what are some OF you think might be available for trade that are both above-average regulars and relatively young/cost controlled?
2013-10-15 13:00:00 (link to chat) Is Sano more Pedro Alvarez type or a Giancarlo Stanton type?
2013-10-15 13:00:00 (link to chat) Giancarlo Stanton's injury bugs concern me. Are we ever going to see him unleash his beastmode #rig and belt 50 homers in the near future?
2013-07-29 11:00:00 (link to chat) Dynasty League: Giancarlo Stanton for Yu Darvish & Hunter Pence. Team Trading Stanton is loaded with offensive talent, but lacks MLB-ready starting pitching. Team trading Darvish is ravaged by injuries or suspensions, and has a deep rotation? Fair? Buying/Selling someone on the cheap?
2013-06-20 13:00:00 (link to chat) On Aug 1st Giancarlo Stanton is wearing a ???? jersey?
2013-06-13 13:00:00 (link to chat) One sports writer was ruminating over the possibility of a trade of Jurickson Profar for a power hitting outfielder like Jose Bautista. He's in the prime of his career and has a very team friendly contract. Is this even a viable trade possibility. Who loses that trade if it ever happened?
2013-05-10 14:00:00 (link to chat) Probably a question best for a fantasy chat, but In a 20-team dynasty league: Giancarlo Stanton, Clayton Kershaw, and Patrick Corbin for Yu Darvish, Shelby Miller, Craig Kimbrel, Neftali Feliz, and Byron Buxton. Assuming the trade benefits the needs of both teams, which side would you rather have?
(Dr. Mike from Milwaukee) Kershaw and Darvish are nearly a wash (maybe a slight edge to Kershaw), and it's hard to bank on Feliz, so it comes down to Giancarlo-Corbin for Miller-Kimbrel-Buxton. I love Kimbrel, but closers are risky business from a dynasty standpoint, and though I prefer Miller to Corbin by a decent measure, I don't think that Buxton bridges the gap to Giancarlo. I feel that prospects are extremely overvalued in dynasty formats, especially when compared to players like Stanton - Stanton is young enough to still qualify as a prospect and already one of the best players in the game, and his future will be even brighter once he escapes the island of misfit toys in Miami.
2013-04-16 20:00:00 (link to chat) Is the lack of lineup protection or shoulder injury going to result in a downgrade to the PECOTA projection for Giancarlo Stanton?
2013-04-10 20:00:00 (link to chat) What is Pujols' value in a keeper league? Is he still a top 10 value for the next 3 years or should I be concerned about the Anahiem park factors and declining numbers and looks to move him for younger players?
2013-02-27 20:00:00 (link to chat) My current keepers are Pujols, Granderson, Wright, Teixeria, Hamilton and Machado in a 12 team H2H 6 man keeper league. Should I be looking to get younger, perhaps targeting a Bryce Harper or Giancarlo Stanton? Or am I safe playing with these players on the wrong side of 30?
2013-02-27 20:00:00 (link to chat) Is Brian Goodwin an impact bat?
2013-02-12 13:00:00 (link to chat) If you are the Marlins what's your starting point for Giancarlo Stanton?
2013-01-02 13:00:00 (link to chat) What do you think the Marlins will do with Giancarlo Stanton? He'll get traded, but when? And what will that trade look like?
2012-12-13 13:00:00 (link to chat) you think the Marlins would prefer 4 years of Giancarlo Stanton to 6 years of Profar? They very clearly don't care about 2013.
2012-11-20 13:00:00 (link to chat) It's my hunch that it's only a matter of time until Giancarlo Stanton requests a trade. Given that EVERY team in MLB would jump in on this, who has either the most pieces or the best pieces to match up with the Marlins needs?
2012-06-12 13:00:00 (link to chat) Are the odds now tilted in Giancarlo Stanton's favor that he will have a better career than Jason Heyward?
2012-04-19 14:00:00 (link to chat) How much does Giancarlo Stanton hate the dimensions of his new ballpark? How much have your projections of his power numbers this season dropped due to his new setting? On a lighter note...what does he think of the monstrosity in left-center?
(Art Vandelay from NY, NY) Askinq questions in the middle of the workday? And you want to be my latex salesman?!
2012-04-19 14:00:00 (link to chat) You can choose three young outfielders to start a franchise. Any player with less than three years of service time is eligible. Who do you take and why?
2012-04-13 13:00:00 (link to chat) After an extremely disappointing 2011, what are the odds now that Jason Heyward will have a better career than Giancarlo Stanton?
2010-09-15 14:00:00 (link to chat) Is Hunter Pence Jeff Francouer on steroids (in a 2.0 version kind of way)? And does Michael Stanton remind you of Dave Kingman?