B210k: Like B210j, but with two hollow houses on back below SPORTS. Prefix 5QJ.
B208h: Like B208g, but one star on back below EDUCATION. Intro: 2015.
All five types of the new 10-dollar polymer commemorative note have been confirmed with either one or two diamonds below the unique wording at lower left back.
B205h: Like B205g, but with one star below ARTS on back. Prefix 5AF.
2 dollars, no date. Likbe MAS B8f, but with two diamonds below EDUCATION on back.
50 dollars, no date. Like MAS B5, but with two diamonds below ARTS on back.
As previously reported, the Monetary Authority of Singapore will no longer issue the 10,000-dollar banknote (BCCS B38) as of 1 October 2014, but it will remain legal tender. However, according to a Jakarta Post article dated 7 July 2014, the Indonesian Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (PPATK) has urged Singaporean authorities to withdraw all such notes rather than simply discontinue printing, to more effectively help Indonesia curb rampant corruption and money-laundering activities.
According to an article on The Real Singapore dated 2 July 2014, the Monetary Authority of Singapore will no longer issue the 10,000-dollar banknote (BCCS B38) as of 1 October 2014, but it will remain legal tender. With a face value equal to US$8,000, this note is tied with the 10,000-dollar note (BCMB B5) from Brunei for the circulating note with the highest face value in the world. This high denomination note is being withdrawn to reduce the risk of money laundering. The move was announced as part of "Combating Financial Crime: International and National Efforts," a keynote address by Ong Chong Tee, deputy managing director (Financial Supervision), Monetary Authority of Singapore at the ABS Financial Crime Seminar on 2 July 2014.
5 dollars, no date. Like MAS B9, but one triangle on back. Intro: 2014.
Curiously, this note bears the prefix 4AQ, which falls after the 4AL prefix for a note previously confirmed with two triangles. Apparently the Monetary Authority of Singapore has broken with the symbol system used in the past.
Courtesy of Chris Twining of Page's Coins and Currency.
100 dollars, no date. Like MAS B6d, but two triangles below YOUTH on back.
1,000 dollars, no date. Like MAS B7e, but new signature (Tharman Shanmugaratnam) and one star below GOVERNMENT on back.
10 dollars, no date. Like MAS B10, but with one star below SPORTS on back. Intro: January 2014.
Courtesy of Bin Hee Jum.
50 dollars, no date. Like MAS B5, but with one diamond below the word ARTS on the back.
1,000 dollars, no date. Like MAS B7, but with two diamonds below GOVERNMENT on back.
100 dollars, no date. Like MAS B6 (P50), but new signature (Tharman Shanmugaratnam) and one triangle on back.
10 dollars, no date. Like MAS B10 (P48), but with two diamonds on the back below the word SPORTS.
The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) has issued a press release dated 10 January 2013 encouraging the public to use what it calls "good as new" 2-dollar notes for the coming Lunar New Year's "hong bao," which is the tradition of giving clean notes as gifts. In the past, MAS would print and issue an additional 50 million notes to meet the temporary demand for uncirculated notes, but this was much more than the economy actually needed to function. By encouraging the public to accept these "good as new" recirculated notes, MAS hopes to cut its production costs and is marketing the effort as good for the environment.
2 dollars, no date. Like MAS B8, but one diamond on back.
5 dollars, no date. Like MAS B9, but two triangles on back. The pattern observed on the other denominations suggests that 5-dollar varieties with two squares and one triangle exist, but to date none have been reported.
50 dollars, no date. Like MAS B5, but two triangles on back.
50 dollars (US$41), no date. Like MAS B5 (P49), but new signature (Tharman Shanmugaratnam) and one triangle under ARTS on back.
Courtesy of Tan Wei Jie, Claudio Marana, and JianKuan Lee (quality_banknotes888).
1,000 dollars (US$780), no date. Like MAS B7 (P51), but with one diamond symbol under GOVERNMENT on back.
At some point in the late 2000s, the Monetary Authority of Singapore began including symbols on the back of the notes to indicate new printings. The first issue under a given signature has no symbol. The second printing has one square; the third, two squares; the fourth, one triangle; and the fifth, two triangles. To date, no note has had a sixth printing, and the MAS has not indicated what symbol it would use should the need arise.
Courtesy of Tan Wei Jie.
The Singapore chapter of The Banknote Book is now available for individual sale and as a free download to subscribers.
At the time of initial publication, this 18-page catalog covers every note (129 types and varieties, including 33 notes unlisted in the SCWPM) issued by the Board of Commissioners of Currency from 1967 to 2002, and the Monetary Authority of Singapore from 2004 until present day.
2 dollars (US$1.65), no date. Like P46, but with two triangles below EDUCATION on back. Intro: July 2011.
10 dollars (US$7.70), no date. Like P48, but new signature and now with two triangles below SPORTS on back. This denomination has been previously confirmed with no symbol, one or two squares, or one triangle in the same location.
2 dollars (US$1.55), no date. Like P46, but with one triangle below EDUCATION on back. Previously notes with none, one, and two squares have been confirmed. This is the first time someone has confirmed a new symbol on a given denomination.
5 dollars (US$3.30), no date. Like the $5 note issued 18.05.2007, but now with one square below GARDEN CITY on back. Signature remains CHAIRMAN Goh Chok Tong.
10 dollars (US$7.70), no date. Like P48, but new signature and now with triangle below SPORTS on back. This denomination has been previously confirmed with no symbol as well as either one or two squares in the same location.
50 dollars (US$37.25), no date. Like P49, but two squares below ARTS on back. Intro: September 2010.
1,000 dollars (US$696), no date. Like Pick 43, but new signature (Goh Chok Tong), new issuer (Monetary Authority of Singapore), and two triangles below GOVERNMENT on back.
2 dollars (US$1.40), no date. Like Pick 46, but with two squares below EDUCATION on back.
50 dollars (US$34.80), no date. Like Pick 49, but new signature and one square below the word ARTS on back.
100 dollars (US$72.15). Like Pick 42, but now issued by the Monetary Authority of Singapore and signed by Chairman Goh Chok Tong. Despite the lower denominations having made the transition to polymer, this note remains printed on paper. This note has been confirmed in varieties with one and two squares below the word YOUTH on the back. If anyone has an example of this note without a square, or with more than two squares, please send images of same.
Courtesy of Tan Wi Jie and Vincent Tan.
Collectors in Singapore have recently discovered that some of the polymer notes in circulation have small squares beneath the titles on the back vignette. Specifically, the 2-dollar note (Pick 46) has been confirmed both with and without a single square beneath the word EDUCATION, and the 10-dollar note (not listed in SCWPM; shown above) has been confirmed with none, one, and two squares beneath the word SPORTS.


I have searched the internet high and low to no avail. i would like to have printed documention of the religious catholic candles such as Virgin De Guadalupe amd the verses on the back of the candles i can find these candles at most local grocery store but i wanted the verses printed out for my children and grandchildren can you please help me. desperatly needing help?
-- The Bumper! (Bump@bumpitybump.bump), March 30, 2004.
Neither the candles themselves nor the verses on them are officially produced by, or necessarily approved by, the Catholic Church. You would have to contact the manufacturer of the candles to obtain information on the verses used by that particular manufacturer. If you get the candles at a Catholic book store or Catholic religious articles store, the proprietor may be able to provide you with some information. But not at a grocery store.
-- Paul M. (PaulCyp@cox.net), March 30, 2004.
They DO make the same candles in English, or bilingual versions. If you post the paragraphs here, someone will be able to translate them, or, you can just try for a market with more of an English-speaking client base.
-- Someone (ChimingIn@twocents.cam), March 30, 2004.


At B&E Packaging, we want to work with the best people who are engaged and passionate about our business, our products and our customers.
We offer a great working environment for our people so they will enjoy in working together with the team.
providing a safe and healthy work environment.
ensuring employees receive fair and competitive remuneration and advancement.
providing the training and development necessary to realise mutually beneficial individual and company goals.


text:
David Connolly
Chief Technologist
David joined Silverstream in 2017 as Chief Technologist, to lead on innovation projects and to develop key strategic partnerships with external organisations including universities and research institutes.
From a career spanning more than 30 years in the maritime industry, David brings a wealth of experience in delivering innovative technologies, transformation programmes, data management and performance analysis, ship design, ship construction, modification and repair. He has an extensive record in leading multi-disciplinary engineering teams in the most complex projects within the defence and commercial shipping sectors.
Previously, David was the Lead Principal Maritime Technologist at Shell Shipping & Maritime Technology, leading its drive for technology innovation in maritime operations. He has also held important positions at globally renowned companies including Marine Strategic Advisor at Shell International Exploration and Production, Senior Naval Architect at Agip KCO, Business Development Executive at Fleet Support Ltd., and Managing Director at BMT SHIPDESIGN Ltd.
Sponsored by the UK Ministry of Defence, David graduated from University College London with a BSc in Naval Architecture & Ocean Engineering. A Chartered Engineer, Fellow of RINA and Visiting Professor at Southampton University, David has throughout his career demonstrated a flare for innovative thinking and solution delivery.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


2019 Ford Ranger Interior, Specs, Price – The middle of-dimension Ford Ranger is certainly lastly back in the US and also the design may be the variation from the worldwide pickup. In the US soil customers will get the newest Ranger together with the EcoBoost four-cylinder engine and also in XL, XLT, and Lariat toned models. Buyers can also get the opportunity to upgrade with the FX away-street bundles whilst the Raptor variation can also be expected almost certainly every year to two by at present.
However, beyond the US, the Ranger will come in addition to the updated form and in much more mixtures. The worldwide Raptor edition previously lowered the handles although the substantial clip version also offers much more to supply for your new design year. Even though the Ranger Raptor will be the class on its own upon the product range in a few other trading markets will be the 2019 ford ranger Wildtrak.
The newest Ranger Wildtrak obtains a lot of aesthetic and interior improvements nevertheless Ford likewise provides newly enhanced safety products. Ford also better your revocation process. Exactly what is even the emphasize from the model's upgrade is definitely the arability of some Raptor's gear. The Wildtrak, and also the XLT model, can get your optional 2.-liter bi-turbo diesel engine through the Raptor design in the conjunction with this 10-rate intelligent transmission and Terrain Management Process.
2019 ford ranger Wildtrak and also other versions are in identical shape and size for the new version calendar year, however, some visible improvements will be identified over the collection.
Any Wiladtrak proceeds the adventure with all the improved grille design at night gray finish. A similar coloration remedy gets the mentorship match caps and fog lighting bezels. All the fog lights are, nevertheless, new with the Directed technologies. Any model has restyled Guided DRLs and reshaped lower bumper. The Wildtrak even comes with the rooftop side rails, aspect actions, non-obligatory 18-in. black rims, and much more.
Your cabin in the Ranger Wildtrak was the main topic of some upgrades. The most notable-of-the-range Ranger becomes distinctive, premium furniture not to mention the best of the particular technician as well as ease characteristics.
Your dim style prevails inside the pickup's cab of the premium Wildtrak model and contrasting sections and even up-graded surface finishes, in addition, enhance the impact. The front seating features the heaters and partial leather furniture.
The middle of-dimension Ford Ranger is finally in the US and the product is definitely the edition in the international pickup. About the US soil consumers are certain to get the new Ranger with all the EcoBoost four-tube engine as well as in XL, XLT, not to mention Lariat cut types. Buyers can also get the chance to improve together with the Currency trading away-highway packages even though the Raptor version can also be predicted almost certainly each year to 2 as a result of at this point.
Even so, outside the US, the particular Ranger is available equally within the up-to-date type and also in much more combos. The international Raptor model already decreased typically the covers nevertheless the higher cut variation also provides more to supply for that unique version calendar year. While the Ranger Raptor is the class itself on top of the range in some other markets is the 2019 Ford Ranger Wildtrak.
The new Ranger Wildtrak obtains quite a few visible and interior updates and yet Ford also provides new not to mention better safety products. Ford equally better the suspension system. What is also the showcase from the model's revise is definitely the arability with some Raptor's devices. The Wildtrak, plus the XLT edition, will get the optionally available 2.-liter bi-turbo diesel engine through the Raptor version from the conjunction with your 10-velocity automatic transmission and Terrain Control Program.
2019 ford ranger Wildtrak along with other versions remain in same shape and size for your new model calendar year, however, some visual improvements will likely be found throughout the variety.
The Wiladtrak proceeds any journey together with the revised grille design at night grey complete. A similar coloration remedy receives the mentorship match hats and fog light bezels. The fog lights are, nevertheless, brand-new using the Brought technological innovation. The version has additionally restyled LED DRLs and reshaped lower bumper. The Wildtrak also has the roof side rails, part actions, recommended 18-" black colored rims, and a lot more.
Your cabin of your Ranger Wildtrak has also been the subject of some upgrades. The best-of-the-array Ranger receives unique, premium furniture plus the very best of the technician and convenience functions.
The darkish style prevails inside of the taxicab in the premium Wildtrak model distinct sections and up-graded coatings furthermore increase the impression. The front chairs include typically the heaters and also part leather-based upholstery.
The Wildtrak comes with intelligent weather conditions manage, Bluetooth, SYNC3 infotainment program using the great-solution 8-in. touchscreen display, smartphone if it is compatible functions, rearview digital camera, keyless entry, "easy lift up tailgate", and so on.
For that unique model calendar year, this Ranger enhancement the particular safety products at the same time. The Wiladtrak profits semi-car park your car help, automatic emergency braking using the pedestrian diagnosis and traffic sign recognition. Typically the pedestrian as well as vehicle recognition process makes use of the mouth as well as video camera pertaining to diagnosis from the walking or even cars as well as gives a Ranger on the stop if required. The device can also be shot down.
Any Wildtrak will also consistently offer you adaptive luxury cruise handle, lane continues to keep aid, auto substantial beam, wheel strain monitoring, and so forth.
The big information for your 2019 Ford Ranger Wildtrak is definitely the accessibility of Raptor's engine, transmission and terrain control process. The forthcoming Wildtrak is going to be driven with the 2.-liter dual-turbo oils burner from the die-hard Raptor for an option. The engine supplies 210 hp (157 kilowatts) during 3750rpm even though the top twisting of 500 Nm can be obtained only 1750 rpm. From the combination with the newest turbo diesel engine is actually a smooth 10-speed auto transmission whilst the Terrain Administration Process also through the Raptor will adjust the revocation and other factors for the very best performance dependant upon the surface conditions.
The Wildtrak will certainly once more return together with the 3.2-liter 5-cylinder turbodiesel engine automatically. That engine works within the set together with the 6-velocity automated transmission. The power increases to 197 hp (147 kW) and also the maximum torque is 470 Nm.
The Ranger Wildtrak will even remain at the identical maximum dragging capacity whatever engine you choose. The class-top rated hauling reduce is in 3, 500 kilo.
The new 2019 Ford Ranger Wildtrak using the worthwhile and attractive improvements should go discounted around Sept.
The price will begin via $60, 590 Australian bucks with all the 3.2-liter diesel engine under the hood. If one wishes the Wildtrak together with the 2.-liter bi-turbo diesel engine transplanted from your famous Raptor version, the starting up price is going to be with $63, 990 Australian dollars.


text:
Q: Docker-java API connect virtualbox ubuntu docker in Eclipse on windows 10 I have installed virtualbox on windows 10 and created a Ubuntu instance for docker host. Then installed docker on Ubuntu. I want to connect the docker using docker-java API (I am using docker-java 3.0.12), the code is below:
DockerClientConfig config = DefaultDockerClientConfig.createDefaultConfigBuilder()
                    .withDockerHost("tcp://192.168.5.31:2375").build();
DockerClient dockerClient = DockerClientBuilder.getInstance(config).build();

CreateContainerResponse container1 =
dockerClient.createContainerCmd("tomcat:latest").withCmd("sleep", "9999") .withName("mytomcat3").exec();

dockerClient = DockerClientBuilder.getInstance().build();
dockerClient.startContainerCmd(container1.getId()).exec();

I have got the follows info:
java.lang.RuntimeException: Library 'junixsocket-native-2.0.4.dll' not found!
    at org.newsclub.net.unix.NarSystem.getLibPath(NarSystem.java:132)
    at org.newsclub.net.unix.NarSystem.loadLibrary(NarSystem.java:36)
    at sun.reflect.NativeMethodAccessorImpl.invoke0(Native Method)
    at sun.reflect.NativeMethodAccessorImpl.invoke(NativeMethodAccessorImpl.java:62)
    at sun.reflect.DelegatingMethodAccessorImpl.invoke(DelegatingMethodAccessorImpl.java:43)
    at java.lang.reflect.Method.invoke(Method.java:498)
    at org.newsclub.net.unix.NativeUnixSocket.<clinit>(NativeUnixSocket.java:35)
    at org.newsclub.net.unix.AFUNIXSocket.<init>(AFUNIXSocket.java:36)
    at org.newsclub.net.unix.AFUNIXSocket.newInstance(AFUNIXSocket.java:54)
    at com.github.dockerjava.jaxrs.ApacheUnixSocket.<init>(ApacheUnixSocket.java:51)
    at com.github.dockerjava.jaxrs.UnixConnectionSocketFactory.createSocket(UnixConnectionSocketFactory.java:66)
    at org.apache.http.impl.conn.DefaultHttpClientConnectionOperator.connect(DefaultHttpClientConnectionOperator.java:118)
    at org.apache.http.impl.conn.PoolingHttpClientConnectionManager.connect(PoolingHttpClientConnectionManager.java:353)
    at org.apache.http.impl.execchain.MainClientExec.establishRoute(MainClientExec.java:380)
    at org.apache.http.impl.execchain.MainClientExec.execute(MainClientExec.java:236)
    at org.apache.http.impl.execchain.ProtocolExec.execute(ProtocolExec.java:184)
    at org.apache.http.impl.execchain.RetryExec.execute(RetryExec.java:88)
    at org.apache.http.impl.execchain.RedirectExec.execute(RedirectExec.java:110)
    at org.apache.http.impl.client.InternalHttpClient.doExecute(InternalHttpClient.java:184)
    at org.apache.http.impl.client.CloseableHttpClient.execute(CloseableHttpClient.java:71)
    at org.glassfish.jersey.apache.connector.ApacheConnector.apply(ApacheConnector.java:435)
    at org.glassfish.jersey.client.ClientRuntime.invoke(ClientRuntime.java:252)
    at org.glassfish.jersey.client.JerseyInvocation$1.call(JerseyInvocation.java:684)
    at org.glassfish.jersey.client.JerseyInvocation$1.call(JerseyInvocation.java:681)
    at org.glassfish.jersey.internal.Errors.process(Errors.java:315)
    at org.glassfish.jersey.internal.Errors.process(Errors.java:297)
    at org.glassfish.jersey.internal.Errors.process(Errors.java:228)
    at org.glassfish.jersey.process.internal.RequestScope.runInScope(RequestScope.java:444)
    at org.glassfish.jersey.client.JerseyInvocation.invoke(JerseyInvocation.java:681)
    at org.glassfish.jersey.client.JerseyInvocation$Builder.method(JerseyInvocation.java:437)
    at org.glassfish.jersey.client.JerseyInvocation$Builder.post(JerseyInvocation.java:343)
    at com.github.dockerjava.jaxrs.StartContainerCmdExec.execute(StartContainerCmdExec.java:29)
    at com.github.dockerjava.jaxrs.StartContainerCmdExec.execute(StartContainerCmdExec.java:12)
    at com.github.dockerjava.jaxrs.AbstrSyncDockerCmdExec.exec(AbstrSyncDockerCmdExec.java:23)
    at com.github.dockerjava.core.command.AbstrDockerCmd.exec(AbstrDockerCmd.java:35)
    at com.github.dockerjava.core.command.StartContainerCmdImpl.exec(StartContainerCmdImpl.java:46)
    at docker.MyDocker.main(MyDocker.java:53)...

I can not download the dll. Can you please tell me how to fix this problem?
Many thanks!

A: I have found a solution using another Java API. That is spotify/docker-client. I used the API like this:
import java.net.URI;
import java.util.Arrays;

import com.google.common.collect.ImmutableMap;
import com.spotify.docker.client.DefaultDockerClient;
import com.spotify.docker.client.DockerClient;
import com.spotify.docker.client.LogStream;
import com.spotify.docker.client.messages.ContainerConfig;
import com.spotify.docker.client.messages.ContainerCreation;
import com.spotify.docker.client.messages.ExecCreation;
import com.spotify.docker.client.messages.HostConfig;
import com.spotify.docker.client.messages.HostConfig.Bind;
import com.spotify.docker.client.messages.PortBinding;

public class MyDocker {

public static void main(String[] args) {
    try {
        DockerClient dockerClient = DefaultDockerClient.builder()
                    .uri(URI.create("http://192.168.5.31:2375"))
                    .build();
        // Pull an image
        //docker.pull("tomcat");

        String p = PortBinding.randomPort("192.168.5.31").hostPort();

        final HostConfig hostConfig = HostConfig.builder()
                .appendBinds(Bind.from("/home/cdh/test")
                           .to("/usr/local/tomcat/webapps/test").readOnly(false)
                           .build())
                .portBindings(ImmutableMap.of("8080/tcp", Arrays.asList(PortBinding.of("0.0.0.0", p)))).build();

        final ContainerConfig containerConfig = ContainerConfig.builder()
                .hostConfig(hostConfig)
                .image("tomcat:latest").exposedPorts("8080/tcp")
                .build();

        final ContainerCreation creation = dockerClient.createContainer(containerConfig);
        final String id = creation.id();

        // Start container
        dockerClient.startContainer(id);
        // Exec command inside running container with attached STDOUT and STDERR
        final String[] command = {"bash", "-c", "ls"};
        final ExecCreation execCreation = dockerClient.execCreate(
            id, command, DockerClient.ExecCreateParam.attachStdout(),
            DockerClient.ExecCreateParam.attachStderr());
        final LogStream output = dockerClient.execStart(execCreation.id());
        final String execOutput = output.readFully();

        // Kill container
        dockerClient.killContainer(id);

        // Remove container
        dockerClient.removeContainer(id);

        // Close the docker client
        dockerClient.close();

    } catch (Exception e) {
        e.printStackTrace();
    }
}

It works perfectly. Now I suggested you can use the following code to access docker.
Cheers!

A: junixsocket version 2.0.4 does not support Windows. You need to upgrade to a later version.
Try changing your junixsocket dependencies to
<dependency>
  <groupId>com.kohlschutter.junixsocket</groupId>
  <artifactId>junixsocket-core</artifactId>
  <version>2.5.2</version>
  <type>pom</type>
</dependency>

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


text:
OLATHE SOUTH THEATRE
Mr. Hastings
Mr. Hastings has been teaching theatre at Olathe South since 2002. Before joining the Olathe School District, Mr. Hastings taugth theatre at Southwest Junior High School in Lawrence, Kansas. He also directed shows at Lawrence High School and sponsored their Thespian Troupe at the Kansas Thespian Festival. Before becoming a theatre educator, Mr. Hastings worked in retail banking as an officer and branch manager. He has served as the chapter director of Kansas Thespian, adjudicated shows for Educational Theatre Association, serves on the scholarship committee at the International Thespian Festival, volunteered on committees and special projects for EdTA and has served as a treasurer for the EdTA board of directors. His musicals at Olathe South have been nominated for several Starlight Theatre Blue Star Awards including outstanding overall production in 2003, 2007, 2013, and 2014. He won the Starlight Blue Star Award for Outstanding Direction for Hello Dolly in 2007 and the Outstanding Overall Production for 13 in 2013. His productions of You're A Good Man Charlie Brown, 13, Crush, Trap and Ghostlight performed on the main stage at the International Thespian Festival. For Kansas Thespians, Mr. Hastings helped produce the all state musicals James and the Giant Peach and Bring It On that were performed at the Kansas Thespian and International Thespian Festivals. His students have also performed two Chapter Select plays, Dead and The Bully Plays, at the International Thespian Festival. Mr. Hastings' students have qualified three times for the National English Speaking Union Shakespeare Competition at Lincoln Center in New York City. Twice, his students have placed in the top ten at this competition. His Thespian troupe has received the Outstanding School Award from the Educational Theatre Association in 2013 and 2020. His program received the 2016 Best High School Program in the Midwest from Stage Directions magazine. Mr. Hastings has acted in community and professional theaters in the Kansas City metropolitan area. He has also appeared on radio and tv shows/commericals produced in Kansas City. He has directed serveral shows at Shawnee Mission Theatre in the Park, inclduing Gypsy, Les Miserables (student edition), Urinetown, Peter Pan, The Drowsy Chaperone, and Back to the 80's. He has been recognized in Stage Direction, Dramatics, Teaching Theatre, KC Stage, and the Kansas City Star. He has also been recognized three times as a master teacher at Olathe South, and has received an Educator Excellence award from the Olathe Schools Foundation. Mr. Hastings was inducted into the Kanas Thespians Hall of Fame in 2020. He studied theatre at the Meadows School of the Arts at Southern Methodist University, and has a bachelor's degree in theatre/film and a master's degree in education from the University of Kansas. Mr. Hastings completed his certification in theatre education from Ottawa University. His love of theatre started in preschool and continued in Susan Dinges creative dramatics classes at UMKC through elementary school. Mr. Hastings love of theatre education was inspired by his high school theatre teachers, Maureen Davis and Margaret McClatchey, at Shawnee Mission North High School. He was Best Thespian at SMN in 1989. He is a teacher today because of his wife's passion for teaching math, his great uncle's career as an educator/football coach in Texas, his high school drama teachers and junior high school gym and basketball coach (Robert Corder). His wife, Amy, is the math department co-chair at Olathe South. Amy and David have three children (Isaiah, Anna, & Noah). When Mr. Hastings is not doing theatre, he likes Disney (especially the theme parks), Nintendo, and college basketball.
Email Mr. Hastings
Olathe South High School - 1640 E. 151st Street - Olathe, KS 66062 - 913.780.7160
Olathe Public Schools


Xiaomi Redmi Note 4, which the Chinese company retails like hotcakes, has collected an everlasting price decline of Rs 1000 in India. The Xiaomi Redmi Note 4 price in India now commences at Rs 9,999. The company launched its Mi Mix 2 in India on Flipkart Exclusive last month. The declaration occurred by Xiaomi India Leader Manu Kumar Jain on Sunday via his Twitter account. "We are announcing a permanent price drop of Rs 1000 on India's #1 selling Smartphone: #RedmiNote4," Jain tweeted.
As a consequence of the price slash, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 4 with 3GB RAM, 32 GB storage is valued at Rs 9,999 while the alternative with 4GG RAM, 64GB onboard storage is at present obtainable at Rs 11,999. The price drop is pertinent on both Mi.com and Flipkart. Also, the up-to-the-minute price drop causes the Redmi Note 4 to become a more competitive preference against models like Nokia 5, Moto G5, and Samsung Galaxy J7 (2016).
Additionally to the declined price, Flipkart has scheduled a few proposals on the Redmi Note 4 to provide it an advantage over the opposition. Customers can substitute their subsisting models to get a replacement valued at Rs 11,000. Also, five percent discount is accessible on orders procured through Axis Bank Buzz credit cards. The online marketplace is moreover providing no-cost EMI options to sell the handset at a monthly installment of Rs 2,000.
The Redmi Note 4 includes a 5.5 inch full HD display with 2.5D Curved Glass. An octa-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 625 SoC motorize it united with up to 4 GB of RAM. The smart-phone has a microSD card slot to enlarge the built-in storage. The Android Nougat operating Redmi Note 4 has a 13-megapixel camera sensor at the back and a 5-megapixel camera sensor at the front. It has 4G with VoLTE, GPS, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi. Besides, the handset packs a 4100mAh battery and is available in Black, Dark Grey, and Gold color options.


Sweetest Day is like a mix between Valentines Day and Thanksgiving. It's a day to give thanks for those extra-sweet people in your life. The holiday originated with a candy store owner who wanted to bring cheer and some happiness to the lives of those who were often forgotten. A great way to celebrate Sweetest Day is by ordering a gift basket of sweet treats from BOYNTON VILLAGER FLORIST for your someone sweet.
Halloween brings out the kid (and 'spook') in all of us with jack-o'-lanterns, trick-or-treating, and lots of Halloween activities to enjoy. Your local florist, BOYNTON VILLAGER FLORIST of Boynton Beach, is a great place to start for creative suggestions on Halloween flowers, party decorations, and haunted houses. Let us suggest some Halloween party flower ideas for kids, and maybe even a few tips grownup 'ghouls' will like too! Give your Halloween festivities a 'frightfully' fantastic look and feel with colorful flowers and fun Halloween floral decor from BOYNTON VILLAGER FLORIST.
Roses are always a great, classic way to say 'I love you' while a bouquet of your loved one's favorite flowers is always perfect on Valentines Day. Sending roses is always a special occasion. Let BOYNTON VILLAGER FLORIST help you send this traditional romantic gift. They are also one of the most popular and recognized flowers in the world. No matter who you want to send flowers to, roses are a perfect choice. Send red roses for romance, white roses for respect, and yellow roses for friendship. Whatever rose you choose to send, BOYNTON VILLAGER FLORIST in Boynton Beach can help you!
What better way to celebrate Easter than with the candy-colors of springtime? Think you're too old for an Easter basket? Think again! Order a lush basket of Easter flowers from BOYNTON VILLAGER FLORIST for yourself or any bunny who needs a little pick-me-up! Whether your style is bright and cheery gerbera dasies, or powdery pastel lilies, this Boynton Beach florist has you covered!


text:
Ornette Coleman, jazz innovator and disruptor, dies at 85
Ornette Coleman performing at the Warsaw Summer Jazz Days in Warsaw in 2007.
(TOMASZ PACZOS, EPA)
By Don Heckman
Special to the Los Angeles Times
When saxophonist Ornette Coleman played clubs in Los Angeles in the mid-1950s, audiences often covered their ears and waited outside until his set was done. He shunned the conventions of melody and harmony and encouraged his bandmates to do the same, producing a sound too dissonant for mainstream tastes.
So in 1959, when the iconoclastic musician and composer blew into New York for a gig at the legendary Five Spot jazz club, hostility flowed — drummer Max Roach expressed his disapproval by punching Coleman in the mouth.
But the club was filled, night after night, for weeks. By the the end of his run, Coleman had launched a new kind of cool.
"He's doing the only really new thing in jazz since the innovations of Parker, Gillespie and Monk," pianist John Lewis of the Modern Jazz Quartet said at the time.
Coleman, whose spontaneous approach to jazz improvisation and imaginative compositions stamped him as one of the most innovative and controversial figures of the post-bebop era and brought him a Pulitzer Prize for musical composition in 2007, died of cardiac arrest Thursday in New York, said his publicist, Ken Weinstein. He was 85.
His performance at the Five Spot polarized much of the jazz world. Some viewed him as a charlatan who played freely because he lacked the skills required to improvise in traditional fashion. Others saw him as a compelling artist, moving jazz forward into adventurous new territory.
"I sometimes realize that there is something on the earth that is free of everything but what created it," he told the New York Times decades later, "and that is the one thing that I have been trying to find."
Coleman's music encompassed a seemingly unlikely combination of elements.
The Texas blues riffs of his youth were interspersed with fast-moving bebop phrases. Rhythm flowed in an orbit of its own. The soloists had completely unfettered freedom to find their way, without the traditional jazz obligations to remain with the scheme of a song's harmonies. And Coleman used the full resources of the alto saxophone, reaching from fast note flurries and high harmonics to multi-phonics and vocalized interjections. Occasionally, he played the violin or trumpet, with less technical expertise but similar daring.
Given the utter uniqueness that this wide-open approach could bring to each performance, it was no surprise that it soon became known as "free jazz" — a title Coleman himself applied to his sixth album. The recording is a nearly 40-minute-long free improvisation by two quartets, one led by Coleman, the other by Eric Dolphy. More than simply establishing the label "free jazz," it became the pathfinder for the numerous avant-garde jazz movements that largely dominated the '60s.
Coleman's own explanation of his creative goals, however, tended to avoid the use of identifications such as "free jazz" and "avant-garde" in favor of more esoteric narratives.
"I don't think that sound has a style," he said in the Los Angeles Times in 1984. "The human voice doesn't have a style, it has a language, and sound is the same way. We make the style once we find the sound that takes the form of the idea."
Ornette Coleman was born March 9, 1930, in Fort Worth, the last of four children of Randolph and Rosa Coleman. His father died when he was 7. Coleman said he only recalled seeing his father once — in a baseball uniform — but had no real memories of him. Coleman's mother was a seamstress.
Because of the family's limited financial resources, he reportedly saved the money he made shining shoes to buy his first saxophone. Unable to afford lessons, he taught himself the fundamentals of the instrument, practicing by playing along with music on the radio.
By his late teens Coleman was performing in local bar bands and traveling carnival shows before moving to Los Angeles in the early '50s. Working as an elevator operator, he again studied on his own, reading music theory books.
The first visible results of his quest to find his own way were present on two albums recorded on the West Coast in the late '50s — "Something Else" and "Tomorrow Is The Question." But Coleman fully emerged on the national stage in late 1959 when he led his quartet — with Don Cherry on trumpet, Charlie Haden on bass and Billy Higgins on drums — in the seminal performance at New York's Five Spot.
The controversy provoked by that appearance, followed by the release of "Free Jazz," quickly established him as the jazz world's new revolutionary. Despite initial critical barbs leveled at him, Coleman was aided by praise and support from such established figures as composer and educator Gunther Schuller and the New York Philharmonic's Leonard Bernstein.
He received Guggenheim fellowships in 1967 and 1974, and his large concert work for jazz band and orchestra — "The Skies of America" — continues to have symphonic performances by orchestras around the world.
In the '70s and '80s, Coleman's continued musical probing led him to the establishment of Prime Time, an electric group that sometimes doubled his backing with paired teams of guitarists, bassists and drummers. He began, at the same time, to advance a theoretical approach to music that he named "Harmolodics," underscoring his belief in the equality of harmony and melody. He also reached into world music, recording with Morocco's Master Musicians of Joujouka on the album "Dancing in Your Head."
From the '80s on, Coleman was widely acknowledged as an iconic figure, ranked with such innovative figures as Miles Davis, Charles Mingus, Cecil Taylor and John Coltrane. Others saw him from an even broader perspective as he collaborated with Pat Metheny, Yoko Ono, Jerry Garcia, Lou Reed and, in "Skies of America," the New York Philharmonic.
Besides the Pulitzer for his 2006 album "Sound Grammar," he was awarded a MacArthur Foundation "genius" grant in 1994, and a Dorothy and Lillian Gish Prize in 2004. His other honors include induction into the French Order of Arts and Letters and a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.
Coleman continued to tour widely into his 80s with a group that included his son and manager, Denardo Coleman, on drums, and paired basses, one acoustic, the other electric.
He gave his last public performance a year ago in New York. Although billed as a concert for him, it became partly a concert by him. He spent much of the show on stage with his sax, playing with an eclectic group of celebrants who included saxophonists Branford Marsalis and John Zorn, Laurie Anderson on violin, and Flea, the bassist from Red Hot Chili Peppers.
"'There's nothing else but life,"' the pioneer of free jazz told the audience. "We can't be against each other. We have to help each other. It'll turn out like you will never forget it."
Coleman is survived by his son, Denardo, and a grandson, Ornette Ali Coleman. His marriage to Jayne Cortez ended in divorce in 1964.
Don Heckman is a Times correspondent.
Staff writer Elaine Woo contributed to this report.
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CBC Abu Dhabi Supported Webinar: UAE-Canada Business Council discusses 'Energy issues in the post-COVID-19 world'
01 July 2020 14:12 | Anonymous member (Administrator)
ABU DHABI, 1st July, 2020 (WAM) -- A webinar dialogue session was recently hosted by the UAE-Canada Business Council to discuss the 'Energy issues in the post-COVID-19 world' in the presence of Suhail bin Mohammed Faraj Faris Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Industry, OPEC Secretary General, Mohammad Sanusi Barkindo, and Jason Kenney, Premier of Alberta, Canada.
The Canada-UAE Business Council has helped in facilitating long-term relationships and strategic initiatives among industry stakeholders.
Addressing the meeting, Al Mazrouei said, "The UAE has a plan to diversify our energy sources to more greener forms of energy, up to 50% by the year 2050. What happened showed that at difficult times we can work together and manage this storm. I think all countries post-COVID are revisiting their plans, looking at how we will benefit from the learnings of this pandemic that flipped the whole economy upside down, and made us worried about things that we did not worry about before – such as food security and healthcare security."
"Adaptability is something we'll learn, and I think we will capitalize on that in the future," he added.
On OPEC's DoC decisions: the minister said, "We were walking in a new land where we didn't know what could be enough (in terms of production adjustments).To get OPEC+ to so quickly agree to such a big adjustment never happened in the world.
"Nobody could predict that the market could so quickly rebound to where we are today. Some thought (OPEC+ adjustments) were not enough. We were confident if we saw it through it would calm the chaos. Our worry was not the price, but saving the whole industry, saving millions of jobs and investment. If we didn't do it, we would have another shock down the road."
For his part, Barkindo expressed his appreciation to Canada for its support in encouraging the energy dialogue, notably the recently held bilateral meeting with HE Sonya Savage, Minister of Energy for Alberta, to discuss oil developments against the backdrop of recent OPEC and non-OPEC meetings.
The Secretary General underscored the vital role of dialogue and cooperation in achieving sustainable stability in the oil market. He cited the impact and positive outcome of the OPEC and non-OPEC Declaration of Cooperation on the oil market as a stabilising mechanism for the global energy industry.
"In these dire times of chaos and disaster, OPEC has managed to offer something that is a rare commodity today hope", said OPEC Secretary General.
Alberta Premier, Jason Kenney, said that being landlocked made Alberta's oil industry particularly vulnerable when COVID-19 hit. "Thanks to OPEC for reaching out to us. We were able to open lines of communication, also with our neighbours to the south."
Kenney said Alberta has a greater capacity to act because it produces 85% of Canada's oil and has a mechanism already in place to curtail production, which has already been used since 2019 to shut-in 400,000 b/d due to transportation restrictions.
Kenney said particularly European investors are misinformed about Canada's production. He said great technological progress has been made in reducing the carbon intensity of the industry, so that it has a lower footprint than other world producers of heavy crude.
WAM/Hatem Mohamed/Hassan Bashir
Source: wam.ae
Expats in UAE mark 153rd Canada Day online
Dubai's Burj Khalifa also lit up with the colours of the Canadian flag at 8.15pm to join the expats in their festivities.
Canadian missions in the UAE on Wednesday marked the 153rd Canada Day with a virtual celebration for their 40,000-strong expat community in the country.
For Canadians in the country, backyard barbecues, fireworks and a long list of entertainment activities are the usual staples for their annual Canada Day gatherings. This time, however, because of the Covid-19 pandemic, they had to take the celebration online.
Canada streamed an entertainment event that was curated and produced in Paris.
"This year, just like millions of people around the world, Canadians are celebrating a stay-at-home-birthday, together, with virtual online activities and world-class performances that can be viewed from the comfort of home," said Marcy Grossman, Ambassador of Canada to the UAE.
The online variety shows featuring popular Canadian artists can be accessed through the Embassy of Canada's social media platforms, and were aired from 10pm UAE time onwards on Wednesday. Hashtags #CanadaDayUAE #LoveFromCanada #CanadaDay2020 also filled social media feeds.
As part of the festivity, Canada also thanked the UAE for its support in the fight against Covid-19 pandemic. "Canada Day underlines our appreciation for what it has accomplished in collaboration with our international partners across the globe to fight Covid-19. Canada continues to stand ready to work with the UAE as the world moves toward a long-term recovery from the pandemic to build a brighter and resilient future," Grossman said.
saman@khaleejtimes.com
Source: www.khaleejtimes.com
UAE leads MENA region and ninth in the world in global competitiveness in 2020
16 June 2020 16:18 | Anonymous member (Administrator)
ABU DHABI, 16th June, 2020 (WAM) -- For the fourth year in row, the United Arab Emirates is leading the MENA region in the IMD World Competitiveness Yearbook 2020, issued by the World Competitiveness Centre of the World Institute for Management Development, IMD, in Lausanne, Switzerland, which puts the UAE at 9th place among the most competitive countries in the world.
The UAE maintained its position among the top ten competitive countries in the world in 2020, ahead of countries such as the United States, Ireland, Finland, Luxembourg, Germany, and the United Kingdom, to be the only Arab country that succeeded in asserting itself in the Big Ten Club in the World Competitiveness Yearbook for four years in a row, since joining the top ten in 2017, despite the challenges of COVID-19 pandemic that influenced the 2020 edition.
According to the results of the report, the United Arab Emirates ranked first globally in 23 indicators and sub-factors, while it ranked among the top five globally in 59 indicators and in top ten globally in 106 indicators, out of 338 indicators covered by the report this year.
The IMD World competitiveness yearbook 2020 relies on questionnaires collected (33.33 percent) and on statistics and data provided by countries (66.67 percent). The report focuses in its classification of the countries on four factors (Economic Performance, Government Efficiency, Business Efficiency and Infrastructure) with 20 sub-factors each that cover 338 competitive indicators in various economic, financial, legislative, management and social fields, along with some new indicators added in this year's edition of the yearbook. Some of the new additions reflect the importance of achieving sustainable development objectives, and provide a vision of the economy's position with respect to the various sustainable objectives that must be met within ten years, such as education, environment, empowerment, ageing and health.
UAE takes the lead in 7 factors At the sub-factors level, the UAE achieved an improvement in 7 factors, ranking at 1st place globally in the Labor Market factor, and the 5th globally in the Employment Factor, the 6th place in the Pricing Factor. The UAE is also advancing in other sub-factors, such as the social framework, education, and technology, health and the environment infrastructures, while maintaining its rank unchanged in two sub-factors, the factor of Attributes and Values (second in the world) and the factor of Tax Policy (third in the world).
Commenting on the UAE's performance in this year's IMD World Competitiveness Yearbook, Abdullah Nasser Lootah, Director-General of the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority said, "Within the UAE2021 vision and in preparation for the Golden Jubilee, the UAE is moving forward with an ambitious strategy that anticipates the future, nurture a culture of excellence to be in the lead of world competitiveness at various levels. Thanks to the vision and guidance of the UAE's leadership, the country managed since 2017 to join the top 10 competitive countries in this report, and to consolidate its well-deserved position among the top ten globally in the overall ranking and regional leadership. "
Rapid changes Hanan Mansoor Ahli, Executive Director, Competitiveness Sector, said, "The annual change in the ranking of the top ten countries in the yearbook reflects the intensity of the competition between the leading countries in recent years. And thanks to the guidance and support of UAE's leadership and continuous efforts by the government to enhance the country's world competitiveness, the UAE has succeeded in solidifying its position among the top ten most competitive economies in the world."
Fourth in the world in Economic Performance despite the global pandemic Despite the emergency circumstances that the whole world is going through because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the UAE has achieved a balanced performance in the factors of the report, as it moved forward three places in the Economic Performance factor, with the Netherlands topping the global ranking, followed by The United States and Singapore, while the UAE ranked 4th in the world, moving forward three places comparing to last year's report, ahead of countries such as Germany, China, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Canada, Japan and others.
UAE is leading the world in 23 indicators The UAE ranked first globally in 23 indicators included in the report within its factors and sub-indicators. In addition, the UAE ranked first globally in the indicators: Bureaucracy Absence, Immigration Laws, Redundancy Costs, low Central Government Foreign Debt, Tax Evasion, Collected Personal Income Tax (%), Collected Indirect Tax Revenues (%), Real Personal Taxes, and the percentage of Females in Parliament, all of which are indicators included in the factor of the Government Efficiency and its sub-factors.
Furthermore, the country ranked first globally in many other indicators such as Labour Force out of the total population, Working Hours, Competent Senior Managers, Industrial Disputes and Foreign Labour Force, all of which are included in Business Efficiency factor. The UAE once again topped the ranks globally in indicators such as Dependency Ratio, Public-Private Partnership and Environmental Laws within the factor of infrastructure and its sub-factors.
WAM/Tariq alfaham/MOHD AAMIR
UAE Foreign Minister, Canadian counterpart discuss ways to curb COVID-19 impact
ABU DHABI, 13th June, 2020 (WAM) -- H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, has discussed with Francois-Philippe Champagne, Canadian Foreign Minister, the bilateral relations between the UAE and Canada.
During a video call, the two sides also discussed the importance of boosting joint cooperation between the two countries in a various field, including economic, commercial, investment, defence, infrastructure, women, youth and energy.
The UAE Foreign Minister and his Canadian counterpart also reviewed the latest development of COVID-19 outbreak and the importance of coordinating and unifying efforts to curb its impact.
They also commended the joint efforts of the concerned authorities and diplomatic missions in the UAE and Canada during the completion of the evacuation process of nationals of the two countries due to the pandemic.
Sheikh Abdullah and the Canadian Minister of Foreign Affairs reiterated the necessity of enhancing joint work in the framework of international organisations.
His Highness Sheikh Abdullah offered his sincere condolences and sympathy to Champagne on the victims of the virus, and wished permanent security, safety and prosperity to the friendly Canadian people.
The video call was attended by Reem bint Ibrahim Al Hashemy, Minister of State for International Cooperation, Ahmed Ali Al Sayegh, Minister of State, Khalifa Shaheen Al Marar, Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation for Political Affairs, Fahad Saeed Al Raqbani, UAE Ambassador Extraordinaire to Canada, Marcy Grossman, Canadian Ambassador to the UAE, along with a number of officials in the two countries.
WAM/Esraa Ismail/Hassan Bashir
UAE Minister of State for Defence Affairs, Mohammed Al Bowardi and Canadian Minister of National Defence, Harjit Sajjan discuss joint cooperation
ABU DHABI, 11th June, 2020 (WAM) -- In a phone call with the Canadian Minister of National Defence, Harjit Sajjan, UAE Minister of State for Defence Affairs, Mohammed Al Bowardi, discussed strengthening defence and military cooperation relations between the UAE and Canada, and ways to develop them to serve the interests of the two friendly countries.
Al Bowardi and Sajjan also exchanged views on COVID-19 developments, stressing the importance of coordinating work and uniting efforts to contain the repercussions of the pandemic.
The two sides also reviewed a number of regional and international issues of common concern.
WAM/Rasha Abubaker/Nour Salman
Source: www.wam.ae
Abu Dhabi's leading position in World Happiness Report global testament to emirate's pioneering status: Department of Economic Development
28 March 2020 10:56 | Anonymous member (Administrator)
ABU DHABI, 28th March, 2020 (WAM) -- Abu Dhabi's leading Arab cities in the latest edition of the World Happiness Report 2020 is an international testament to the emirate's pioneering status on the global scene, Mohammed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman of Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development said.
The World Happiness Report 2020 is an annual publication of the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network made in partnership with the Gallup World Poll, an American analytics and advisory company.
The emirate, which has also been ranked in the 35th place of the report, outpaced numerous cities from across the globe as the report covers 186 cities in total. Moreover, the UAE continued to maintain a leading global position in the index with a 21st place ranking, outperforming many advanced countries and economies. This year's report reviewed the happiness of individuals across 156 different countries.
In statements on the new achievement, Al Shorafa said: "The results of this year's World Happiness Report demonstrates Abu Dhabi's leading global position and the high trust and confidence that society has placed in the emirate. The extensive efforts and initiatives undertaken by Abu Dhabi's wise leadership and government, in cooperation with all public and private entities, continue to contribute to the happiness of community members and the enhancement of efforts to achieve sustainable development, sparing no effort in promoting individuals' happiness and ensure their access to all means of wellbeing, increasing their trust in the emirate and enhancing Abu Dhabi's profile as the destination of choice for working and living."
He added that the high ranking remains proof of the emirate's continued progress, both at regional and global levels. It also reflects Abu Dhabi's ability to boost the levels of happiness and wellbeing among community members in line with the goals of achieving sustainable development and maintaining a quality of life that falls under the standards set forth in the global sustainability agenda.
In this year's report, Abu Dhabi and Dubai ranked the happiest cities in the Arab region. The significance of this index is underlined by the fact than half of the world's population are urban dwellers and live in large cities. Cities are also the economic power centers, as 80 percent of the world's GDP is produced within cities.
The report also included a study that explores the relationship between the Sustainable Development Goals, SDGs, and wellbeing. In a comparative analysis between nations listed in the World Happiness Index and the Sustainable Development Goals index, the analysis showed a direct relationship between efforts to achieve the SDGs and reported happiness levels, where nations scoring leading positions in the World Happiness Index were also better performers in the SGD Index. The SDG Index is a global indicator that monitors countries 'efforts and readiness to achieve the 17 sustainable development goals, also known as the Global Agenda 2030.
The study also indicated to the importance of research to better understand the relationship between wellbeing in societies, and its implications on the Global Agenda, especially ones related to sustainable consumption and climate change.
In another special chapter in this year's edition of the World Happiness Report, a study shows how natural environment can be a factor in raising happiness and wellbeing for individuals. An analysis of individual responses in the happiness polls indicated that preserving and maintaining healthy and natural surroundings, does support and elevate levels of happiness and wellbeing in societies.
The study indicated a number of key natural factors affecting happiness, such as weather, green spaces and water surfaces such as beaches and canals. The study documented an increase of happiness levels by individuals who live near green spaces or surrounded by natural trees, more than those who live far from any natural greenery. The same was also true for those who live overlooking water surfaces.
The study concluded that a healthy natural environment plays a role in raising the levels of happiness and wellbeing by presenting opportunities and experiences that instill happiness, such as recreational activities with family and friends in natural open-air surroundings.
The happiness index in this year's report included 153 countries, through which the happiness levels were captured by surveying citizens and residents to assess their general life satisfaction levels. The report, which was first launched in 2012, saw Finland ranking first in the 2020 global index for the third year in a row.
WAM/Hatem Mohamed
Government introduces Canada Emergency Response Benefit to help workers and businesses
From: Department of Finance Canada
March 25, 2020 - Ottawa, Ontario - Department of Finance Canada
The Government of Canada is taking strong, immediate and effective action to protect Canadians and the economy from the impacts of the global COVID-19 pandemic. No Canadian should have to choose between protecting their health, putting food on the table, paying for their medication or caring for a family member.
To support workers and help businesses keep their employees, the government has proposed legislation to establish the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB). This taxable benefit would provide $2,000 a month for up to four months for workers who lose their income as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. The CERB would be a simpler and more accessible combination of the previously announced Emergency Care Benefit and Emergency Support Benefit.
The CERB would cover Canadians who have lost their job, are sick, quarantined, or taking care of someone who is sick with COVID-19, as well as working parents who must stay home without pay to care for children who are sick or at home because of school and daycare closures. The CERB would apply to wage earners, as well as contract workers and self-employed individuals who would not otherwise be eligible for Employment Insurance (EI).
Additionally, workers who are still employed, but are not receiving income because of disruptions to their work situation due to COVID-19, would also qualify for the CERB. This would help businesses keep their employees as they navigate these difficult times, while ensuring they preserve the ability to quickly resume operations as soon as it becomes possible.
The EI system was not designed to process the unprecedented high volume of applications received in the past week. Given this situation, all Canadians who have ceased working due to COVID-19, whether they are EI-eligible or not, would be able to receive the CERB to ensure they have timely access to the income support they need.
Canadians who are already receiving EI regular and sickness benefits as of today would continue to receive their benefits and should not apply to the CERB. If their EI benefits end before October 3, 2020, they could apply for the CERB once their EI benefits cease, if they are unable to return to work due to COVID-19. Canadians who have already applied for EI and whose application has not yet been processed would not need to reapply. Canadians who are eligible for EI regular and sickness benefits would still be able to access their normal EI benefits, if still unemployed, after the 16-week period covered by the CERB.
The government is working to get money into the pockets of Canadians as quickly as possible. The portal for accessing the CERB would be available in early April. EI eligible Canadians who have lost their job can continue to apply for EI here, as can Canadians applying for other EI benefits.
Canadians would begin to receive their CERB payments within 10 days of application. The CERB would be paid every four weeks and be available from March 15, 2020 until October 3, 2020.
This benefit would be one part of the government's COVID-19 Economic Response Plan, to support Canadian workers and businesses and help stabilize the economy by helping Canadians pay for essentials like housing and groceries, and helping businesses pay their employees and bills during this unprecedented time of global uncertainty.
"We know that people are worried about their health, their jobs and their financial situations. Our government is doing whatever it takes to protect the health and safety of Canadians, and to support workers, families and businesses. The Canada Emergency Response Benefit would make sure that money gets in the hands of workers as quickly as possible to support them in their time of need, and would help businesses keep their employees during this difficult period. Canadians can rest assured that the government stands ready to take any and all necessary actions as we continue to confront these challenging times together."
- Bill Morneau, Minister of Finance
"Through the Canada Emergency Response Benefit, the Government of Canada would be helping support those Canadians who are unable to work due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It is during these difficult times that Canadians should not have to choose between protecting their health and continuing to support their families. We recognize this, and are there for them."
- Carla Qualtrough, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability Inclusion
"The government understands that the outbreak of COVID-19 is having a significant impact on all Canadians. Through the Canada Emergency Response Benefit, we would provide much-needed financial support to those who have lost their income because of COVID-19. The Canada Revenue Agency is playing an important role by getting benefit payments to Canadians quickly and efficiently."
- Diane Lebouthillier, Minister of National Revenue
Source: canada.ca
Revealed: 15-point economic stimulus package in Abu Dhabi
The positive performance of the real estate sector in Abu Dhabi during 2019 indicates the increasing demand for real estate by investors who are looking for a safe, stable and encouraging investment environment. Image Credit: Supplied
Abu Dhabi: Abu Dhabi Executive Council (ADEC) has launched a new set of initiatives under "Ghadan 21" on Monday, including a series of stimulus packages to boost small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and ease the availability of loans to local companies.
Also included are water and electricity subsidies for citizens, and commercial and industrial activities, as well as all exemption of vehicles from road tolls till the end of 2020.
In a series of tweets on Monday, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, announced that all approved capital expenditure and development projects in the emirate will continue as planned.
"I've discussed with officials in Abu Dhabi the current economic and business climate...The existing stimulus programmes in Abu Dhabi and those launched recently by the Central Bank and local governments are the solid pillars that will support & protect the UAE's economic stability."
The initiatives include the following:
Allocating Dh5bn to subsidise water and electricity for citizens, and commercial and industrial activities.
Subsidising electricity connection fees for startups until the end of this year.
Exempting all commercial and industrial activities from Tawtheeq fees this year.
Allocating Dh3bn to the SME credit guarantee scheme managed by Abu Dhabi Investment Office to stimulate financing by local banks and enhance SME's ability to navigate the current market environment.
Allocating Dh1bn to establish a market maker fund, to enhance liquidity and sustain balance between supply and demand for stocks.
Settling all approved government payables & invoices within 15 working days.
Suspending bid bonds and exempting startups of performance guarantees for projects up to Dh50 million.
Reducing industrial land leasing fees by 25% on new contracts.
Suspending real estate registrations fees for this year.
Waiving current commercial and industrial penalties.
Exempting commercial vehicles from annual registration fees to the end of 2020.
Exempting all vehicles from road toll tariffs till the end of 2020.
Suspending tourism and municipality fees for tourism & entertainment sectors for this year.
Offering up to 20% rebate on rental values for the restaurants and tourism and entertainment sectors.
Establishing a new committee headed by the Department of Finance, with members from the Department of Economic Development and local banks to review lending options to support local companies.
Source: www.gulfnews.com
Coronavirus disease (COVID-19): Resources for Canadian businesses
In an interconnected global economy, the new coronavirus (also known as COVID-19) is affecting Canadian businesses and their operations. It has resulted in restrictions on travel and public gatherings, as well as supply chain disruptions and market uncertainty.
The Government of Canada is committed to providing you with the information and support you need to make informed decisions as your business navigates through these challenges.
The information on this web page summarizes key considerations and timelines only. It is not intended as legal or other professional advice.
Four key considerations
1. Supporting your employees
People are the cornerstone of any successful business. It is important for you to protect your employees – open, two-way communication is essential to achieving this goal.
No employer should feel like they have to lay off a worker because of the virus, and no one should have to worry about their job if they have to be quarantined. That's why the Government of Canada's $1 billion COVID-19 Response Fund goes towards support for employers and workers through the Work-Sharing program, and by waiving the one-week waiting period for Employment Insurance sickness benefits.
Government of Canada takes action on COVID-19 (Government of Canada)
Getting your workplace ready for COVID-19 (World Health Organization)
Keeping your employees safe (Canadian Federation of Independent Business)
2. Financial implications and business preparedness
Canada's strong fiscal position means we are well-positioned to respond to challenges – and our approach includes measures to prepare for the possible broader impacts on our people, the economy, and small businesses across the country.
It is also vital for Canadian businesses to have contingency plans in place to manage potential financial risk. The Canadian Chamber of Commerce, as well as Business Development Canada, has developed helpful and comprehensive guides to help you with planning and preparedness.
Canada's measures to support the economy and the financial sector (Government of Canada)
Pandemic preparedness resources for business (Canadian Chamber of Commerce)
Continuity plan toolkit (Business Development Canada)
3. Business travel and events
Companies should consider the impacts of international travel on their operations. Canada has several active travel health notices for COVID-19 for countries around the world. These are updated regularly based on ongoing risk assessments.
When it comes to conferences and business events, you can consult the Government of Canada's advice on deciding whether to postpone or cancel a mass gathering of people.
On March 13, 2020, the Government of Canada advised Canadians to avoid non-essential travel outside of Canada until further notice.
COVID-19 travel advice (Government of Canada)
Travel advisories (Government of Canada)
Risk-informed decision-making for mass gatherings (Government of Canada)
4. Exporting and doing business in international markets
Today's business climate means many companies are globally connected – what is happening around the world has a direct impact on operations in Canada.
The Trade Commissioner Service has an unmatched network of over 1,000 business-savvy experts in 160 cities worldwide who help Canadian businesses trade, grow, and succeed. Trade commissioners can provide you with market-specific insights and guidance to help you mitigate the impacts of COVID-19.
COVID-19 frequently asked questions for Canadian exporters (Export Development Canada)
COVID-19: Managing the impact on global supply chains (Export Development Canada webinar)
Contact a trade commissioner abroad
Trade Commissioner Service general enquiries
Calling All Suppliers - Help Canada Combat COVID-19
Source: https://www.tradecommissioner.gc.ca/
'I saw a strong Emirati social fabric, it's all about good governance' Canada's former Governor-General
By Hatem Mohamed..
SHARJAH, 5th MARCH, 2020 (WAM) -- Government communication is key to address the truth, gain public confidence and ultimately have a healthy society, according to Michaelle Jean, the former Governor-General of Canada.
"People like their governments' officials to come up with straightforward responses, but some governments feel threatened to do that. It is all about building trust," she told Emirates News Agency, WAM, on Thursday.
"When you do that, people feel included and once they feel that you have a better cohesion and a healthy society," she added in an interview on the sidelines of the International Government Communication Forum in Sharjah.
Michaelle Jean is a Canadian stateswoman and a former journalist. She was the first woman to hold the position of Secretary-General of the Organisation internationale de la Francophonie.
She also was sworn in as a member of the Queen's Privy Council for Canada in 2012.
Canada's Governor-General from 2005 to 2010 expressed her admiration at what she described as the "public trust and appreciation" she felt once she arrived in Sharjah.
"A lot of people talk about His Highness Sheikh Sultan [Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah]. I see a high level of respect for him and when I listened to his speech in the forum's inaugural session I realised the public trust and appreciation from the people towards him," she said.
"It is because his concern is about how to engage people. He is concerned about reality and what the challenges are. It's about listening. And when you do that in the spirit of government communication, you build trust and become credible because you know people are part of the solution.
"Such a type of leaders take the time to listen and respect. People in this sense realise they participate to find solutions to challenges. We need to invest in human capital to build a better future," she added.
Jean, 62, described the Emirati social fabric as "strong," saying that it is all about good governance. "Good governance is about inclusion," she emphasised.
Judging from her own experience as a former journalist on the rise of new media versus traditional journalism, Michaelle Jean said, "Being rigorous is essential for journalists to be believed."
"In social media you have the best and worst options, but we have to take the best out of it and make a way for dialogue. I was a journalist for 18 years for a public broadcasting corporation. Comparing with the time when I was a journalist, things are now going too fast and this is a problem for democracy. When things go very fast, rumours take the space.
"When I went to the other side as a public figure in the government, I could see how very disruptive fake news were.
"Unfortunately, once anything is said now, even though it's wrong, it becomes a fact. The professional care of verifying the objectivity of things being said is missing," she said.
WAM/Binsal AbdulKader
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