Musicians addressed the Board of the Pasadena Symphony Association Nov. 30, 2017.
For those of you that don't know me, my name is Marissa Benedict and I am the principal trumpet of your orchestra and have been for nearly 15 years.
I am now the chair of the Orchestra Committee since the passing of Maurice Grants.
We know that this is a first, having musicians speak at a board meeting during collective bargaining and we want to thank you for giving us the opportunity.
We are at an extremely important moment for the future of our orchestra. The Pasadena board has always been an ally to musicians, so it's natural that we should reach out to you to help us find a way forward. We want to make sure you have a full picture of the pressures that my colleagues and I face.
We wouldn't be here if we didn't think it was important for you to hear from us, both in thanking you for all you've done in the recovery of the orchestra, and to share our frustrations and concerns regarding the integrity of the orchestra.
I'm Trina Hodgson. For nearly thirty years, I've loved playing in this orchestra because of a few unique characteristics that separated it from similar orchestras in Los Angeles.
First, the Symphony attracted the highest caliber musicians in town. As freelance musicians, we make a living by piecing together regular work and filling in with other casual work. Choices are made in priority of repeat work, compensation, and the quality of the job. Before the crisis, this orchestra was a higher priority job for the tenured musicians because it offered competitive compensation, and programmed concerts that used the whole orchestra, making the work regular and guaranteed. Because of this, the orchestra personnel was consistent and the sections were cohesive from many hours of working and playing together. This raised the level, efficiency, and quality of concert preparation because the music director could work on higher level musical ideas during rehearsals. The musicians loved playing in the orchestra because they were playing great music with great musicians. The audiences loved coming because they were getting world class performances in their home town.
Additionally, the board and the orchestra had a working relationship of mutual respect and appreciation. The board took care of the business and the musicians took care of the quality of the product. The consistency of orchestra personnel made us familiar to our audience members and our donors. The Women's Committee's Saturday morning breakfasts gave us a chance to mingle with board and committee members, and set a festive mood for the evening's performance, connecting us all together in sharing this great musical experience. In those days there was a symbiotic relationship between the orchestra and the Association – we were working together to create something special and everyone benefited from the experience.
It was because of this spirit that we saved our orchestra in tough times. When the crisis hit, it hit musicians hard too. Even though other sources of our employment and income declined and many musicians were struggling to make ends meet, we didn't hesitate to do whatever it took to keep this orchestra going. We were more than willing to play a free concert. We agreed to financial and logistical concessions because this was *OUR* orchestra and we were dedicated to keeping it alive. Our close relationship with management and with you the board members gave us confidence that our sacrifices would be recognized in the future.
The orchestra showed extreme commitment to this organization, but not without receiving commitments from management in exchange. When we agreed to fewer rehearsals, a double concert day, and no raises for years, the executive director promised that these were temporary, stopgap measures that would be addressed when things improved. We were told that the repertoire would be carefully considered so as to accommodate the challenges caused by having fewer rehearsals and the physical requirements of a double performance day with only a short break.
We were not told that repertoire would become more challenging without considering the toll on musicians bodies. We were not told that our string sections would be cut and that many of the musicians who volunteered to play for free would cease to be called for regular work in the future. We were not told that our new management would disavow those old commitments and speak dismissively about the sacrifices we continue to make to keep this organization afloat.
Working at PSO is no longer enough to pay the bills for many of our colleagues. These are professional musicians with decades of training, school loans, and instrument loans to pay. The instruments we bring on stage cost tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars. Many of the members of our orchestra are renters with rapidly rising rents. We are parents trying to send our children to school while spending countless hours of uncompensated practice time preparing for rehearsals and concerts. We have to be able to make a living when we perform. Regular orchestra pay for a 5-service concert set is extremely low.
For context, compare our wages over the last 10 years with the rising cost of living. This doesn't even account for the extreme rise in housing costs in Los Angeles that have far-outpaced these numbers.
We understand that fundraising is difficult, and that the board here has done tremendous work out of a love for music and musicians. We also see that PSA has been able to address rising costs in every other area, but has failed to make significant improvements for the performers. Over the past 7 years, the PSA's overall budget has increased by more than 33%. As you can see from our chart, the cost of living has gone up more than 20% in the past 10 years, leaving musicians at least 14% behind. When venues become more expensive, the board has found a way forward. When vendors charge higher rates, you've found a way. We applaud the hard work it's taken to meet these needs, but we wonder whether we're being forgotten. As every other budget item increases, so too do our costs go up. Our rents increase. The cost of a home is skyrocketing. Sending our children to college is more and more daunting.
Now less than ¼ of the Pasadena budget is spent on the orchestra. Our national player conference, the Regional Orchestra Players' Association, upholds a standard that orchestras should dedicate between 42% and 45% of their budgets to their orchestra expenses, including cartage, benefits, payroll taxes etc. Our numbers are far out of line. We should all find it troubling when only one quarter of every dollar given to The Pasadena Symphony and Pops goes to the musicians on the stage.
The orchestra members we represent remember the promises made by management and they have high expectations. However, we've listened to our counterparts during negotiations and we have reduced our proposals significantly. They are not only well below the national average, in terms of budget allocation, but they would still leave us well behind the cost of living.
Pasadena musicians care about this orchestra. We appreciate our board members and donors; we love playing wonderful music for our community, but because of the stagnant conditions, we're already seeing the orchestra we fought to save come apart. Dedicated musicians turn down concert after concert. Longtime members of the orchestra resign in greater numbers each year. Musicians are struggling to pay their bills and morale is lower now than it was at the height of the crisis. We are here today to ask the board to prioritize the musicians that make up the Pasadena Symphony and to help us find a way to keep performing excellent music in Pasadena.


For Sale 1903 Anschutz Left Hand .22 Long Rifle. Comes with Gehman Front Sight and Anschutz Rear sight,along with Barrel extension.
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text:
%------------
% Ajjai Chandra - curriculum vitae
% Uses LaTeX and moderncv
%------------

%Setup
\documentclass[10pt,a4paper]{moderncv}
\usepackage{url}
\usepackage{footmisc}
\makeatletter
\usepackage[utf8]{inputenc}
\moderncvtheme[darkred]{classic}
\usepackage[utf8]{inputenc} % character encoding
\usepackage[scale=0.820]{geometry} % adjust the page margins
\AtBeginDocument{\setlength{\maketitlenamewidth}{10cm}}
\AtBeginDocument{\recomputelengths} % required when changes are made to page layout lengths

%Personal details.
\firstname{Ajjai}
\familyname{Chandra}
\nopagenumbers{}
\address{Chennai, India.}{}
\email{zencodes@ajjai.in}
\homepage{ajjai.in}

% --------------------------------------
% CONTENT
% --------------------------------------

\begin{document}
\maketitle
\section{Core Competencies}
\cvcomputer
{\textbf{Languages}}{Python, Haskell, C/C++, \\Golang, JavaScript}
{\textbf{Environment}}{Linux, Vim, Bash, Git, \\GNU toolchain, Docker}
\cvcomputer
{\textbf{Backends}}{Postgres, Redis, SQL}
{\textbf{The Web}}{Core Backend, HTML, Django, jQuery}
{\textbf{Traits}}{Core Backend, HTML, Django, jQuery}

% --------------------------------------
% WORK EX
% --------------------------------------

\section{Work Experience}

\cventry{Apr - Sep 2011}{{\href{http://www.google-melange.com/gsoc/project/google/gsoc2011/ajjairc/20001}{Google Summer of Code 2011}}}{Student Contractor}{Google}{}{Integrated SMARTS, a Game Artificial Intelligence Framework into KDE Gluon, and also implemented a KPart Graphical User Interface to plug the SMARTS Editor into Gluon.}

\cventry{July 2013 onwards}{{\href{http://tenmiles.com}{Tenmiles}}}{Software Developer}{at {\href{https://happyfox.com}{core, Happyfox Inc}}}{}{}

% --------------------------------------
% Courses
% --------------------------------------

\section{Education}
\cventry{2009 - 2012}{M.S in Information Technology (Masters)}{Wroclaw University of Technology, Wroclaw Poland}{}{}{\textit{CGPA $7.4$/$10.0$}. (Fall 2013 graduate)}
    \begin{itemize}
    {\item{1st semester - Wroclaw University of Technology, Poland}}
    {\item{2nd semester - Halmstad University of Technology, Sweden}}
    {\item{3rd semester - Aalborg University of Technology, Denmark}}
    {\item{4th semester - Wroclaw University of Technology, Poland}}
    {\item{Implemented W3C spec restrictions on WebIDL dictionary member types, among other patches.}}
    {}
\end{itemize}}
\cventry{2007 - 2008}{Advanced Diploma in Real Time Embedded System}{Cranes Institute - Diploma, Bangalore, Karnataka India}{}{}{\textit{CGPA $7.4$/$10.0$}. (Fall 2013 graduate)}
\cventry{2006}{B.Tech in Information Technology (Bachelors)}{Anna University, Chennai, Tamil Nadu India}{}{}{\textit{CGPA $7.4$/$10.0$}. (Fall 2013 graduate)}
\cventry{2013}{Thesis}{{\href{http://onloop.net/hairyplotter}{\small http://onloop.net/hairyplotter}}}{}{}{Human-Computer Interface with Electrooculogram-based eye gesture detection and classification.}
\cventry{2013}{Term Project}{{\href{http://onloop.net/hairyplotter}{\small http://onloop.net/hairyplotter}}}{}{}{Implementation of Elliptic Curve Cryptography}

\section{Open Source Contributions}

\cventry{Jan 2012 onwards}{{\href{https://bugzilla.mozilla.org/user\%5Fprofile?user\%5Fid=431664}{Mozilla}}}{}{}{}{
\begin{itemize}
{\item{Developed a Code Commenting/Uncommenting feature for the Mozilla Firefox Source Editor.}}
{\item{Implemented W3C spec restrictions on WebIDL dictionary member types, among other patches.}}
{}
\end{itemize}}

\cventry{July 2012}{{\href{https://github.com/mdoege/PySynth/commits?author=ajjairc}{PySynth}}}{}{}{}{Created an interactive Command Line Interpreter to parse Musical Notation and render tunes, aiding in on-the-fly notational composition with PySynth, and also implemented support for audio playback.}

% --------------------------------------
% PROJECTS
% --------------------------------------

\section{{\href{http://github.com/ajjairc/}{Independent Projects}}}

\cventry{}{Transit.js}{{\href{http://onloop.net/transit}{\small http://onloop.net/transit}}}{}{}{A JavaScript library to create purely client-side, interactive transit maps. The {{\href{http://onloop.net/chennairail}{Chennai Suburban Rail map}}} was created using transit.js.}

\cventry{}{Suburl}{{\href{http://u.onloop.net}{\small http://u.onloop.net}}}{}{}{A wildcard substitution-based URL Sanitizer/Shortener in Common Lisp.}

\cventry{}{This.onloop}{{\href{http://this.onloop.net}{\small http://this.onloop.net}}}{}{}{Music Search and Album discovery tool, with Common Lisp and Restas.}

\cventry{}{SC-ircle}{{\href{http://soundcloud.onloop.net}{\small http://soundcloud.onloop.net}}}{}{}{A Python/jQuery webapp to find out who among a Soundcloud user's followees aren't following them back; well-received by the spam-hit Soundcloud user community.}

\cventry{}{QuickHist}{{\href{http://quickhist.onloop.net}{\small http://quickhist.onloop.net}}}{}{}{An URL-based ASCII Histograms API using Common Lisp, Restas and CL-WHO.}

\cventry{}{Howstat}{{\href{http://redd.it/1i7lh3}{\small http://redd.it/1i7lh3}}}{}{}{Resident player-statistics lookup bot for Reddit's Cricket Community, {{\href{http://reddit.com/r/cricket}{/r/Cricket}}.}}

\cventry{}{PDoS}{{\href{http://music.onloop.net}{\small http://music.onloop.net}}}{}{}{Patterned Disruption of Silence - An exercise in extrapolating algorithmic patterns to musical notes.}

\cvitem{\textbf{Github}}{{\href{http://github.com/ajjairc}{\small github.com/ajjairc}}}
\end{document}

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


text:
Android News / All News / 'The Lab' Is A Community Review Program For The OnePlus 3
'The Lab' Is A Community Review Program For The OnePlus 3
By Kishalaya Kundu
Two weeks away from the expected launch of its third-generation flagship smartphone, Chinese technology startup OnePlus has come up with a new idea that it believes will help broaden its appeal and create more involvement with its fans. The company is now introducing a new initiative called 'The Lab', which will "provide fair, honest, crowd-sourced feedback on the OnePlus 3", as per a post on the company's official website. OnePlus has already put up a specially-curated page for the purpose, and are inviting applications from members of the general public to be a part of the process. According to OnePlus, users from all around the world are eligible to send in their applications, but only 30 lucky fans will get the opportunity to get the upcoming OnePlus 3 in their hands before the device officially becomes available for purchase.
OnePlus says that the 30 lucky applicants would be chosen after "intense deliberations", and once the OnePlus 3 handsets are shipped to them, they will then need to submit comprehensive reviews of the device, highlighting, discussing and detailing "the many features that make up the OnePlus 3". The company describes this new initiative as "a trial by fire – the ultimate test for the OnePlus 3". Either way, for the 30 lucky individuals who'll eventually be chosen amongst the thousands of applicants, it sounds like it would be a pretty good deal – get a flagship smartphone for free in exchange of a review. Those who are interested in signing-up should hurry, because the applications will close in about 5 days' time, and according to data provided by OnePlus, as many as 6,518 people have already signed-up for the opportunity (at the time of writing this article).
'The Lab' is just the latest in a long line of novel ideas from the OnePlus marketing department, and is expected to be a fairly popular one amongst the target audience. While the company does come up with some innovative ideas from time to time to hype-up its products, some of them go on to become more contentious than others. A case in point was the highly-controversial 'Ladies First' campaign the company had launched a couple of years ago that would have given women the chance to "skip the invite line" and get a chance to buy the company's first-generation flagship, the OnePlus One. The contest specifically asked women to take a selfie with a visible OnePlus logo painted either on a piece of paper they're holding, or on their body.
Needless to say, the controversy it created led to the contest being pulled within hours, with the company having to issue a grovelling apology for its offensive and condescending attitude towards women, and for perpetuating "a stereotype that OnePlus in no way supports or condones". Thankfully, however, this new contest promises to be a lot less controversial and a lot more fun for everybody involved.
Kishalaya Kundu
I've always been a tech buff and have been building my own PCs since as far back as I can remember. My first computer was a home-built desktop running MS-DOS on which I learnt to program in GW-BASIC and my interests apart from technology include automobiles and sports.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


text:
Rudolf Bindig (* 6. September 1940 in Goslar) ist ein deutscher Politiker, der von 1976 bis 2005 als Mitglied der SPD dem Deutschen Bundestag angehörte.

Leben

Nach dem Abitur, das er 1960 in Goslar bestand, studierte er in Göttingen und Nürnberg und schloss als Diplomkaufmann ab. Nachdem er einige Jahre im kaufmännischen Bereich tätig war, begann er erneut ein Studium der Fächer Politikwissenschaft, Geschichte und Soziologie an der Universität Konstanz. Er war von 1971 bis zur Wahl in den Deutschen Bundestag als wissenschaftlicher Angestellter in der Sozialforschung tätig.

Politik

Bindig trat 1967 in die SPD ein und gehörte von 1973 bis 1993 dem baden-württembergischen Landesvorstand der SPD an. Er war von 1996 bis 2009 Kreisvorsitzender der SPD im Landkreis Ravensburg.

Er war vom 14. Dezember 1976 bis 2005 für acht Wahlperioden Mitglied des Deutschen Bundestages. Er wurde über die Landesliste der Sozialdemokratischen Partei Deutschlands (SPD) in Baden-Württemberg gewählt. Bindig war Sprecher für Menschenrechte innerhalb der SPD-Fraktion und zugleich Berichterstatter des Europarats für Tschetschenien. Er gehörte seit 1988 der Parlamentarischen Versammlung des Europarates an und wurde 2002 zu deren Vizepräsident gewählt.

Bei der Wahl am 7. Juni 2009 wurde er in den Kreistag des Landkreises Ravensburg gewählt. Er war viele Jahre Vorsitzender der nicht-staatlichen humanitären Hilfsorganisation HELP – Hilfe zur Selbsthilfe.

Literatur
 Rudolf Vierhaus, Ludolf Herbst (Hrsg.), Bruno Jahn (Mitarb.): Biographisches Handbuch der Mitglieder des Deutschen Bundestages. 1949–2002. Bd. 1: A–M. K. G. Saur, München 2002, ISBN 3-598-23782-0, S. 67–68.

Weblinks

  mit

Einzelnachweise

Bundestagsabgeordneter (Baden-Württemberg)
SPD-Mitglied
Politiker (20. Jahrhundert)
Politiker (21. Jahrhundert)
Träger des Bundesverdienstkreuzes am Bande
Deutscher
Geboren 1940
Mann

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


text:
The Pink Panther is a 2006 American comedy-mystery film and a reboot of The Pink Panther franchise, marking the tenth installment in the series. It is also the first Pink Panther film to be released since Son of the Pink Panther released in 1993. In this film, Inspector Jacques Clouseau is assigned to solve the murder of a famous football coach and the theft of the famous Pink Panther diamond. The film was directed by Shawn Levy, stars Steve Martin as Clouseau and also co-stars Kevin Kline, Jean Reno, Emily Mortimer, and Beyoncé Knowles.

The film received mostly negative reviews but was a commercial success, earning $164million worldwide. The Pink Panther was released theatrically on February 10, 2006, and was released on DVD and Blu-ray on June 13, 2006. A sequel was released on February 6, 2009.

Plot
At a football match between France and China, France coach Yves Gluant arrives wearing the priceless Pink Panther diamond ring and embraces his girlfriend, pop star Xania. After France wins in sudden death, Gluant is killed by a poison dart, with the Pink Panther nowhere to be found. Eager to win the Légion d'honneur, Chief Inspector Charles Dreyfus promotes clumsy policeman and village idiot Jacques Clouseau to the rank of inspector and assigns him to the case. While Clouseau draws the media's attention, Dreyfus assembles a secret team to actually crack the case and assigns Gendarme Gilbert Ponton to keep an eye on Clouseau. Clouseau befriends Ponton and falls in love with secretary Nicole Durant.

Although Clouseau makes little progress in the case, due to his clumsiness, he still discovers that many people hated Gluant and even wanted to kill him. Bizu, a France player who blamed Gluant for "stealing away" Xania, is the prime murder suspect until he is shot in the head in the team's locker room. While gathering information at a casino, Clouseau meets MI6 006 agent Nigel Boswell, who foils a robbery while wearing Clouseau's trench coat; Clouseau mistakenly receives credit (as Nigel wasn't supposed to be around) and is nominated for the Légion d'honneur, angering Dreyfus and ruining his intentions and chances to win the Légion d'honneur. After following Xania to New York City, Ponton insists she is a suspect because Gluant cheated on her, but Clouseau believes she is innocent, though her actions cause him to believe she knows more than she is letting on. The poison that killed Gluant is found to have been derived from Chinese herbs, leading Dreyfus to conclude that the killer is a Chinese envoy named Dr. Pang, whom Gluant had several dealings with. Dreyfus has Clouseau's bag swapped for one full of weapons at the airport, and Clouseau is arrested (primarily due to his inability to say "hamburger" correctly, having attempted to smuggle some onto the flight back) and vilified by the press on his return to France. Dreyfus demotes Clouseau and plots to publicly arrest Dr. Pang at the Presidential Ball, where Xania will perform.

Clouseau sees an article online about his arrest and notices something in the picture that makes him deduce that Gluant and Bizu were killed by the same person. Realizing that Xania will be the killer's next target, Clouseau, Ponton and Nicole hurry to the Élysée Palace and sneak into the Presidential Ball. While Dreyfus errantly arrests Dr. Pang, Clouseau and Ponton save Xania's life by capturing her would-be assassin: Yuri, the France team's trainer. Jealous and feeling overlooked for the team's success, Yuri used his mandated knowledge of Chinese herbs to kill Gluant; he jabbed the dart unseen into Gluant's neck during their celebration, making it look like Gluant had been shot with it. He later killed Bizu, who long suspected that Yuri might try to kill Gluant and attempted to blackmail him, by using his Russian army training to target the player's occipital lobe, and then targeted Xania for ignoring him and dating Gluant. Clouseau reveals that the Pink Panther was not stolen but instead sewn into the lining of Xania's purse; the photograph of Clouseau's arrest showed an X-ray of the purse at airport security. Xania confesses that Gluant gave her the diamond as an engagement ring just before the France-China match, but after his murder, she was worried that the public would assume she was responsible if she came forward with the ring. Clouseau concludes that Xania is the ring's rightful owner, and Yuri is taken into custody.

Clouseau wins the Légion d'honneur which disappoints Dreyfus. Leaving the ceremony, Dreyfus' suit accidentally gets caught in Clouseau's car door, causing Dreyfus to be dragged down the street as an oblivious Clouseau drives away. While visiting a gravely injured Dreyfus in the hospital and accidentally and unintentionally annoying him, Clouseau accidentally releases the brake on Dreyfus' bed, which rolls through the hospital and crashes the irate chief inspector towards a window, throwing him down into the Seine as he screams Clouseau's name, while Clouseau, Ponton, and Nicole watch from inside.

Cast
Steve Martin as Inspector Jacques Clouseau, a bumbling police officer from a small village in France, assigned to bring Yves Gluant's murderer to justice and recover the Pink Panther diamond
Kevin Kline as Chief Inspector Charles Dreyfus, the head of the French police who is obsessed with winning the Medal of Honour, and means to use Clouseau and the Pink Panther case to win it
Jean Reno as Gendarme Gilbert Ponton, a capable police officer who is assigned to report to Dreyfus on Clouseau's actions
Emily Mortimer as Nicole Durant, a secretary and romantic interest of Clouseau
Henry Czerny as Yuri, a Russian trainer for the France national football team
Kristin Chenoweth as Cherie, an American employee of the France national football team
Roger Rees as Raymond Laroque, a wealthy casino owner and friend of Yves Gluant
Beyoncé as Xania, a famous pop star and girlfriend of Gluant
William Abadie as Bizu, a player on the France national football team
Scott Adkins as Jacquard, another player on the France national football team
Philip Goodwin as Deputy Chief Renard
Henri Garcin as President
Jean Dell as Justice Minister Clochard
Anna Katarina as Agent Corbeille
Jason Statham as Yves Gluant (uncredited), the head coach of the France national football team, whose murder and vanishing of his Pink Panther diamond serve as the main conflicts of the plot
Clive Owen as Nigel Boswell/Agent 006 (uncredited), an MI6 secret agent who briefly helps Clouseau
Boris McGiver as Vainqueur (uncredited), the current head coach of the France national football team who takes over after the murder of Gluant

Production
Chris Tucker and Mike Myers were considered for the role of Inspector Jacques Clouseau. A collaboration between Steve Martin and producer Robert Simonds, who had worked together on Cheaper by the Dozen, The Pink Panther had a production budget of US$80million. Filming began on May 10, 2004.

The film was originally supposed to seek an August 5, 2005 release date, but was then pushed back to February 10, 2006, after Sony expressed dissatisfaction with the film's raunchy tone. It was heavily edited and key scenes were re-shot in an effort to create a more family-friendly feature. "With the recent acquisition of MGM, we wanted to give our marketing department the time and opportunity to launch this very important franchise," Sony Pictures Releasing president Rory Bruer said. "We've seen the movie, and we really love this film. It's a franchise we believe in and are really excited about, and Steve Martin is great as Clouseau."

In keeping with the original Pink Panther films, this film features animated opening titles, provided by Kurtz & Friends.

Reception

Critical response
On Rotten Tomatoes, The Pink Panther has an approval rating of 21% based on 143 reviews and an average rating of 4.1/10. The site's critical consensus reads: "Though Steve Martin is game, the particulars of the Inspector Clouseau character elude him in this middling update." On Metacritic, the film has a weighted average score of 38 out of 100 based on 35 critics, indicating "generally unfavorable reviews". Audiences polled by CinemaScore gave the film an average grade of "B" on an A+ to F scale.

The film was nominated for two Razzies in 2006, one in the category "Worst Remake or Rip-off", and one in the category "Worst Supporting Actress" for Kristin Chenoweth. At the 2006 Stinkers Bad Movie Awards, the film received four nominations: "Worst Actor" (Martin), "Worst Song" (Check on It), and "Worst Fake Accent (Male)" (both Martin and Kline).

Box office
The film grossed $164.1million against a budget of $80million. The Pink Panther is the highest-grossing film in the Pink Panther franchise.

The Pink Panther opened at No.1 in the United States, grossing $20.2million from 3,477 theaters, and took in an additional $20.9million over the four day Presidents Day weekend the following weekend. The film closed in theatres on April 16, having grossed $82.2million in its ten weeks of release. Overseas, the film took $76.6million. United States screenings made up 51.8% of box office takings, with international viewings responsible for 48.2%. In the United Kingdom, the film was released on March 17, 2006, and topped the country's box office that weekend.

Home media
The Pink Panther was released on DVD and Blu-ray on June 13, 2006, and sold 693,588 DVD copies, worth $9,391,182. To date the film has sold 1,579,116 copies—$23,216,770 of consumer spending.

Music
David Newman was originally chosen to compose the score for the film, but was quickly replaced by Christophe Beck. He is credited with the film score which was released as the soundtrack album The Pink Panther about one month following the release of the film. R&B singer, Beyoncé, who co-stars as Xania, performed two songs for the film, "A Woman Like Me" and  hit, "Check on It". The latter serves as the film's theme song aside from the Pink Panther theme by Henry Mancini.

Numerous other songs were used in small parts, but only Beck's original score was included on the soundtrack album.

Sequel

The sequel to this film, titled The Pink Panther 2, was released on February 6, 2009. Martin, Mortimer, and Reno reprised their roles as Inspector Clouseau, Nicole, and Ponton respectively, while John Cleese replaced Kline as Chief Inspector Dreyfus; other new additions to the cast included Andy Garcia, Alfred Molina, Lily Tomlin, and Jeremy Irons. The film received worse reviews than its predecessor and was also not as commercially successful, grossing only $75,946,615 at the box office.

References

External links

2000s English-language films
2000s adventure comedy films
2000s comedy mystery films
2000s heist films
2000s police comedy films
2006 films
2006 comedy films
20th Century Fox films
American adventure comedy films
American comedy mystery films
American crime comedy films
American films with live action and animation
American heist films
American slapstick comedy films
Columbia Pictures films
Films directed by Shawn Levy
Films produced by Robert Simonds
Films scored by Christophe Beck
Films set in New York City
Films set in Paris
Films shot in Los Angeles County, California
Films shot in New York City
Films shot in Paris
Films shot in Prague
Films shot in Rome
Films shot in Vancouver
Films with screenplays by Steve Martin
Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer films
Reboot films
The Pink Panther films
2000s American films
2000s British films


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Recently, the students of our unit have had the exciting opportunity to experience what it is like to fly with the Fleet Air Arm's search and rescue helicopter squadron at HMS GANNET, based in Prestwick. After a morning of meeting the team at HMS GANNET and learning about what they do, we were then given a presentation and insightful session on all aspects of the fleet air arm with pilot Lt James Ross. The flight team deal with many operations in their day to day work - including rescuing climbers on the mountains of Ben Nevis, helping struggling shipping and boats up to two hundred miles out to sea, and training for any and all scenarios which could arise in the area they are responsible for. Following a safety session with air-crewman Chief Boogie Knights, the students donned their safety gear and took to the skies of Ayrshire where the pilots showed them the capabilities of the now aged Sea King Mk 5 flying as far as Culzean Castle before returning following the Ayrshire coast. It was an amazing opportunity for all those involved, especially now that the long serving aircraft are due to be retired in the near future.


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Home→Subcutaneous Fluids (SubQ)→When Performing Fluid Therapy
Fluid Therapy Can Be Lifesaver If Done Right:
When done properly, fluid therapy can make a world of difference in the health of a pet.
By Jessica Tremayne
https://www.veterinarypracticenews.com/fluid-therapy-can-be-lifesaver-if-done-right/
How Much Fluid:
With fluids, most criticalists use (30 x BW in kg) + 70 per day, or 132 x BW0.75 per day for dogs and 70 x BW0.75 per day for cats. All of these give the answer in ml per day. Other formulas, such as 2 ml/kg/hr, 40-60 ml/kg/day and 1 ml/lb/hr are all used. "Multiple fluid rate formulas can be used," says Amy Butler, DVM, Dipl. ACVECC, of Ohio State University. "There is no one correct maintenance fluid calculation. Every patient will have different fluid requirements."
Butler says the requirements of a patient suffering from renal insufficiency are likely to be higher than those of a patient with hyperadrenocorticism, who in turn would have higher requirements than an otherwise healthy patient. Commitment to one formula isn't as important as continued assessment of the patient after fluid administration. "When calculating a fluid rate, the dehydration maintenance rate and ongoing losses are the first considerations," Butler says. "A rate of 100-180 ml/kg/day is often used for young animals. Patients with renal or endocrine disease will likely need higher maintenance fluid rates."
Time to Reassess:
Continuing to monitor the patient on fluids is important when deciding the next move in fluid therapy. "The patient should be assessed at least once daily to make sure the fluid therapy plan is meeting the patient's needs," Butler says. "Increased skin turgor, dry mucous membranes, thirst or weight loss are signs that the patient is not receiving enough fluids. Very frequent urination in a patient with normal kidneys, weight gain, chemosis and pulmonary crackles are signs that the patient is receiving too much fluid. "The bottom line is to pick a fluid rate based on calculation, but then titrate to effect."
Watch for Anemia:
Not giving IV fluids to anemic patients is another fluid therapy misstep.
"Many clinicians are afraid to give IV fluids to anemic animals out of fear that they will bring down the PCV," Butler says. "Even if the plasma volume is expanded and PCV decreases, the total number of red blood cells remains the same. If the patient is showing signs of poor perfusion or shock, giving IV fluids will improve tissue perfusion and tissue oxygen delivery."
Perioperative Management:
Dehydrated patients and those in shock should be stabilized before anesthesia or a surgical procedure. "Aliquots of the shock dose should be given until signs of shock have improved," Butler says. "Anesthesia decreases the body's compensatory responses to hypovolemia, so it is important that hypovolemia be resolved prior to surgery. If the patient is severely dehydrated, perfusion will be compromised, especially once those compensatory mechanisms are removed under anesthesia. "Provide adequate fluid rates during anesthesia using 5-10 ml/kg of isotonic crystalloids. However, patients with excessive losses may require more fluids."
In severe cases, administration of too much fluid can cause pulmonary or interstitial edema, but not giving enough fluid also has consequences. "Too little fluid can result in tissue hypoperfusion," says Wayne E. Wingfield, DVM, Dipl. ACVS, Dipl. ACVECC, of Colorado State University. "Continued dehydration, renal failure and hypovolemic shock, even death, can occur."


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US: Cutting Emissions Could Save 175,000 Lives by 2030
Climate Change / Government Policy
Posted on February 23, 2016 at 12:26 pm
A paper published by Duke University in North Carolina has claimed that if the US work on dramatically reducing their carbon emissions generally and revise their energy policy, they will be able to meet the goals set during the recent Paris Climate Change Summit and, in doing so, prevent at least 175,000 premature deaths.
The paper also claimed that a revision of transport policy, making it greener, could prevent a further 120,000 deaths by 2030, as well as a further 14,000 a year thereafter. Revisions to energy policy would save some 22,000 a year after 2030.
The paper's authors claim that the changes that would need to be made in order to save these lives will not be easy, but they are hugely important. They are described as being more or less essential if the US wants to meet the targets set during the recent Paris climate change summit of a 40% reduction of CO2 levels by 2030, as compared to 2005 levels.
The research involved the construction of reduced-emission scenarios both in the energy and transport sectors, modelling the impacts on both human health and the climate. The scenarios involved drastic reductions of emissions in both sectors that are currently beyond the targets currently set by the US government while being within the realm of possibility.
Drew T. Shindell, the university's professor of climate sciences, said: "We created a 'clean transportation' scenario in which surface transport emissions are reduced by 75%, and a 'clean energy' scenario in which emissions are reduced by 63%.
"These scenarios exceed the current US emissions reduction targets but are technically feasible and in accordance with our reductions we pledged to achieve at the COP21 climate conference in Paris last December and in our climate accord with China last year."
There is no doubt that the proposals are, as Shindall describes, "a tall order" – they would involve electrifying almost all of the cars on the road in the country – but they are also described as necessary if the US wants to meet its reduction targets and pave the way for a greener future.
Shindell said: "burning fossil fuels in power plants, industry and motor vehicles is the main source of US greenhouse gas emissions. Air pollution linked mostly to these same sources is also the leading environmental cause of premature death worldwide. By curbing their emissions, you score on two fronts."
The World Health Organisation published data fairly recently pointing towards the scale of the impact on our health that pollution is having. Air pollution was described as the "largest single environmental health risk" and accounts for around 12% of all global deaths.
The gains are not just made to the environment and to the health of US citizens though; an upshot of the dramatically reduced health risks is a financial saving of some $250 billion. This is thought to not only exceed the amount that would be spent on implementing the plans, but would also allow for compensation to any businesses that suffer as a result of the policy shifts.
Tags duke university greenhouse gas emissions shindell USA
Danny Lord


This webpage details the role of the Nominating Committee and the specifics on how and when the various tasks should be carried out. It is provided to promote complete transparency in the election process, by allowing the election to be planned and run without the input of a serving Executive Committee (EC) member.
The mandate of the Nominating Committee is to generate the list of candidates for the ISB Executive Committee election. This may involve nominating suitable candidates and inviting them to run for election if the number of self-nominated candidates is less that the number of available posts, or reducing the number of candidates requesting to run where there is an over-subscription.
There will be 4 vacancies on the ISB Executive Committee in 2018/2019.
Career stage: the ISB-EC has agreed that, when reviewing the list of applicants, you should strive to open opportunities for curators in more junior positions, prioritizing them over more senior-position candidates if necessary.
Gender: you should aim for the pool of candidates to be as gender-balanced as possible. We define 'gender balance' as an approximately equal representation of females, males, and non-gender conforming candidates in the final pool of candidates, so that it may help preserve a generally balanced representation of gender on the EC.
Geographic location & Institutional Affiliation: Ideally, candidates should come from a collection of different parts of the world and institutions.
Scientific/Research background (i.e. expertise): you should aim to find a pool of candidates from various scientific backgrounds.
However, equally important is the candidate's enthusiasm to serve on the executive committee and a willingness to commit an amount of time to ISB business. Minimally this involves attending monthly teleconference meetings (1 hour in length) and following up on any action points from meetings, as well as promoting the ISB's activity to members and non-members. Examples of activities performed by EC members include reviewing micro-grant submissions, preparing call for participation for hosting Biocuration meetings, preparing materials for ISB election, monitoring ISB mail and website. There are specific positions such as Chair, Secretary and Treasurer that will require a larger time commitment, as they will be in charge of leading the steps of the executive committee and by extension the membership.
Ideally, the maximum number of candidates that may be presented for election is less than twice the number of posts up for election. i.e. 2x – 1 (where x is the number of positions open in the executive committee), ie 7 for the 2018 election.
The candidate's name, position, affiliation.
The candidate's experience with biocuration or her/his intersection with biocuration, details on what he/she will bring to the ISB Executive Committee, and the areas within ISB that the candidate would like to see developed.
Biosketch: 1 paragraph on the candidate's career experience.
Conflicts of interest and other commitments: declare if there is any conflicts of interest, and declare any other significant commitments (e.g. leaderships of centers or consortia, editorial boards, scientific advisory boards, boards of directors, etc.). As well, including collaborations / consortia, other societies, etc., in which the candidate is involved.
Note – if you have trouble accessing the google form, please email responses directly to intsocbio@gmail.com.
The Executive Committee will post a general call for candidates via the website and mailing list.
This email will include: number of posts up for election, term of office, desire for a geographical and career status spread of candidates, and instruction as to how to contact the nominating committee. Also include the cut-off date for contacting the NC with intent to run (1 month prior to election).
All potential candidates must have been in contact with the NC and registered intent to run.
Candidates must be members of the ISB. The NC must check with the EC that this is the case.
Final candidate list must be established and all letters of intent and COI's must have been received.
PLEASE NOTE: The Nominating Committee should not reach out to the final list of candidates until the ISB Executive Committee has approved the list.
Since the website is managed by the ISB Executive Committee, the Nominating Committee will wait to have received all the letters of intent from other candidates before passing along the complete set of letters to be posted on the ISB website.
Results announced within 1 week of closure of election (by October 15, 2018, usually sooner) by email and on the website.
Election Runner (https://electionrunner.com/) will be used as the electronic voting system. Eleanor Williams will serve as Election Officer to overview election process.


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Western Cape Birding - Kogelberg Biosphere Featured Hot
http://www.photodestination.co.za/media/reviewsphotos/thumbnail/341x341s/41/ff/de/western-cape-birding-kogelberg-biosphere-93-1425032847.jpg
If the Cape Floristic Kingdom can be related to a human body, then without a doubt, the Kogelberg Biosphere is the heart. It is considered by many to be the core of the fynbos with an incredibly high diversity of species being found across its area.
The Kogelberg Biosphere stretches from a rugged, yet stunningly beautiful coastline right up high into the mountain peaks that make up most of its landscape.
To be able to find the bird that was sitting in front of me so easily and which was a highly sought after endemic came as a bit of a surprise considering that I had arisen well before dawn and had set off on a two hours drive to this isolated patch of fynbos that was set against a steep mountain slope. Mist swirled low all around me, making bird watching conditions rather poor and yet within two hundred meters of my setting-off point, here was a stunningly beautiful Cape Rockjumper perched upon a boulder with his half-coked tail and relaxed as can be. Nearby, his female partner scratched on the ground in search of a morning meal and it soon became apparent that the pair also had chicks hidden away somewhere high in the mist as they both collected food items that hung dangling from their bills as they flew away out of sight.
1 of 9: Pincushion and Pelargonium Flowers.
Rooi Els is well known for its rockjumpers and a small hiking trail at the back of the collection of houses leads through coastal fynbos where these birds can be found alongside dozens of Orange-breasted Sunbird males displaying together with Cape Sugarbirds and an occasional dazzling metallic green Malachite Sunbird. During other visits here, I have also encountered Cape Siskin and Ground Woodpecker along this route and some people have even been lucky enough to see a leopard skulking along the higher slopes. Verraux's Eagle, Jackal Buzzard and Rock Kestrel are also regularly encountered soaring along the ridge of the mountain, but today for me, this was not going to happen given the misty conditions.
2 of 9: Southern Double-Collared Sunbird:
Elated with my early finds, Stony Point in Bettys Bay was my next destination that lay within a few minutes drive of Rooi Els. In the early 1980's this rather uninteresting jumble of rocks that line the coastline became famous when a small group of African Penguins decided that it would become the first mainland breeding colony for these endangered birds in South Africa. Since then, the colony has steadily grown into one of the most important breeding colonies for the species. Wooden boardwalks and viewing platforms now transect through the colony allowing thousands of visitors each year to view the antics of these quaint birds. Cape Cormorant and White-Breasted Cormorants also breed beside the penguins and the fortunate may also view Crowned and Bank Cormorants. Standing at the most seaward point of the boardwalk, I scanned out to sea with binoculars in the hope of sighting Pomarine Jaegers and Sub-Antarctic Skuas that sometimes visit the area to scavenge. On this trip, I was out of luck, but I did view a small pod of Bottlenosed Dolphins feeding off-shore and in the distance, a Southern Right Whale and her young calf lazed on the seas surface, occasionally tail or fin slapping the water.
3 of 9: Kogelberg Nature Reserve Accomodation.
Walking eastwards from the colony and along the coastline with sandy beaches and rocky outcrops I was soon having good views of African Black Oystercatchers, White-Fronted Plovers, Hartlaubs Gulls, Sacred Ibis and of course the ever present Kelp Gulls. On the breakwaters of the small harbour and boat launching site, flocks of Swift, Sandwich and Common Terns had their day-time roost where they either slept or carefully preened each feather into place and at the same time helped to make this stop a great viewing point for a variety of seabirds.
4 of 9: Cape Bulbul.
Since, I first visited Bettys Bay as a small boy, the Harold Porter Botanical Garden has always been a favourite birding destination for me and one of my most memorable experiences was finding the first record for the Western Cape of a Blue-Mantled Crested-Flycatcher in the forested gorge of Disa Kloof. With my latest visit, the mist finally began to lift and in amongst the gardens, birds of all varieties responded to the arrival of the sunlight and were singing loudly. Olive Thrushes and Cape Robin Chats hopped and scurried across the lawns probing for fat healthy earthworms while in the shady areas small family groupings of Cape Spurfowl dozed sleepily with half-open eyes. In the trees above that were laden with small fruits, Cape White-Eyes and Sombre Greenbuls fed between sessions of calling and with the start of the breeding season, male African Paradise Flycatchers with their long sweeping tails chased after females. Speckled Mousebirds, Spotted Prinia, Fiscal Flycatcher, Common Fiscal and Cape and White-Throated Canaries were also encountered in amongst the floral delights of the indigenous gardens that flashed colors of yellows, oranges, purples, whites and reds. Butterflies and dragonflies danced between the flower heads and occasional Angulate Tortoises also began to emerge as the day heated up.
5 of 9: Sombre Greenbul.
Seed-laden grasses attracted small flocks of Common Waxbills and Swee Waxbills that deftly husked the outer shells of the grass seeds before they swallowed the softer inner parts. Wandering across the cement bridge that arched over a tannin-laden stream, I flushed a pair of Giant Kingfishers that dashed off at high speed with loud alarm calls. The trail that leads to Disa Kloof is surrounded by forest and here I was able to find Cape Batis, Dusky Flycatcher and Olive Woodpecker. Sadly, the final bridge to Disa Kloof has been washed away through heavy flooding and I had to retrace my path to the gardens entrance.
6 of 9: Little Bittern.
Driving across from the botanical gardens to the Kogelberg Nature Reserve, fields of pelargoniums painted the hilly slopes of fynbos with purple that in places were interspersed with the rounded orbs of orange pincushions that rose above the pelargoniums. African Stone Chats used these pincushions as launching points to pounce onto prey and given all the available pollen and nectar that was available, small insects swarmed and in turn attracted swooping White-Throated Swallows, Rock Martins, Black and White-Rumped Swifts and Greater-Striped Swallows in large flocks.
7 of 9: Cape Spurfowl.
My final destination for an incredible days birding was at Stanford where I joined Peter Hochfelden, the chairman of the Walker Bay Bird Fair that is to be held in February 2015 in Stanford. We climbed aboard his small aluminum boat and puttered our way up the reed-lined waterways of the Klein River and that later fed into an expansive lagoon. African Darter, Purple Swamphen, Red-Knobbed Coot, Yellow-Billed Duck, Black Crake, Common Moorhen, Purple Heron and Pied Kingfisher were regular sightings. In the air above us a pair of African Fish Eagles called regularly and perhaps the highlight of the day was an excellent sighting of a Little Bittern that froze and tried unsuccessfully to avoid our detection. As the afternoon shadows began to creep across the landscape, I reflected that there were few areas that contained such a diversity of birding opportunities within such a short drive from one another while also providing stunning views of a diverse and biodiversity rich landscape!
8 of 9: Harold Porter Botanical Gardens is host to numerous species of indigenous Fynbos plants.
Season & Weather:
The climate is Mediterranean with warm summers and mild winters. Wind is present throughout the year with rain falling mainly in the winter months. Always be prepared for sudden changes in the weather. The summers are the dry and dusty months, whilst winter is the time when the fynbos is lush, green and in flower. The best months to visit are April and September.
Habitats:
This route is extremely diverse with its habitats, covering mountain, limestone and coastal fynbos, whilst numerous wetlands and vlei's are surrounded by thicket vegetation. The marine habitats range from rugged cliffs to long sandy beaches.
9 of 9: White-Breasted Cormorant.
African Penguin, Little Bittern, Cape Rockjumper, Victorin's Scrub Warbler, Cape Siskin
From Gordon's Bay follow the R44 coastal road towards Betty's Bay. To reach the Rooi Els site, cross the Rooi Els estuary and take the second turn off to the right and proceed along a gravel road until you reach the parking circle. The coastal road passes through Betty's bay and continues to Kleinmond and Hermanus. The Stony Point penguin colony is well signposted.
CapeNature Central Reservations:
www.capenature.co.za
Closest Town
Bettys Bay
http://www.peterchadwick.co.za
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Author: Peter ChadwickWebsite: http://www.peterchadwick.co.zaEmail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
As a dedicated conservationist, Peter Chadwick has 30 years strategic and operational conservation experience in terrestrial and marine protected area management. He has worked within all of the major biomes in southern Africa as well as having provided expert conservation advice at a global level. His conservation and wildlife photography is a natural extension to his conservation work where he has numerous opportunities to capture photographs that showcase the beauty and complexity of the outdoors. Peter's photography is internationally recognized, with this work appearing globally in a wide range of print and electronic media.
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In the course of a speech on the "Muslim vote" in American, Ralph Nader made some interesting comments on the "special relationship."
IT is time for the US government to realize that this is not a local conflict anymore; it is not just a regional conflict anymore. It is a conflict that is producing flashpoints throughout much of the world and endangering US Citizens in those countries, US businesses in those countries, US workers in those countries, and endangering our own national security here. It is time for the US government to stand up and think for itself.
What has been happening over the years is a predictable routine from the head of the Israeli government.
The Israeli puppeteer travels to Washington. The Israeli puppeteer meets with the puppet in the White House, and then moves down Pennsylvania Avenue and meets with the puppets in Congress, and then takes back billions of taxpayer dollars. It is time for the Washington puppet show to be replaced by the Washington peace show. In that, we will enhance the freedom and security of both Palestinian and Israeli people, peoples around the world, and the American people here and abroad.
NEW YORK, July 2 [U.S. Newswire] -- The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) today objected to independent presidential candidate Ralph Nader's characterization of the White House and Congress as being "puppets" of the Israeli government and Israel lobby in the United States.
"We write to object to your characterization of the White House and Congress as 'puppets' of the Israeli government. Reasonable people can and do disagree with American policy related to the Middle East, and specifically American support for Israel.
"However, there is a line between thoughtful, reasoned, constructive disagreements and offensive hyperbole. Indeed, one may disagree with America's Middle East approach, but to assert that U.S. policy in such a complex and volatile region is the product of wholesale manipulation by a foreign government fails to take into account important US interests that are involved. Moreover, the image of the Jewish State as a 'puppeteer,' controlling the powerful U.S. Congress feeds into many age-old stereotypes which have no place in legitimate public discourse.
"We would have hoped that you might have made a more positive contribution to this issue."


The Aries Amulet or Roulette Wheel is a very complex feature of Evony. In this post, I am going to tell you exactly what your chances of winning a certain item are. That's right, you heard correctly – later in this guide you'll be learning your exact percent chances of winning a specific reward.
1. Holy Helm of Mars – This amazing chest item gives you a hero with a base stat of 80+ in one of the attributes, and guarantees that the hero is level 35+. Heroes are what determine the battle; heroes are what give you that huge resource bonus; heroes are the ones that decrease your level 10 Archery research from 300 hours to 150 hours. In addition, heroes are going to play a huge factor in the Age II.
2. 1,000 Game Cents – This overrules all the other rewards as 1,000 game cents can buy them all. A tip to all you player who win this unbelievable reward – do not spend these coins to speed up construction & research. Save your cents – you're going to want them later on.
3. Plate Helm of Lancelot – Regardless of what others may say, Hods Realm holds heroes in the highest esteem. We believe they are the future of Evony. This great item gives you a hero with minimum of base 70 in an attribute. Reasons are similar to the Holy Helm of Mars.
I'd like to explain a few things to you all before we proceed to the goodies.
First, I'm going to break the wheel down for you.
Jackpot: The jackpot is when you win the "big reward" on the wheel. This item is located at the top row of the wheel in the dead middle. The rewards here are considered to be the "most desirable" or the "best reward". These are extremely rare.
Premium: The premium rewards are when you win a very good reward. Premium is at three locations on the wheel: the center of the right column, the center of the left column, and the center of the bottom row.
Respectable: The respectable rewards are just that – respectable and decent, but not amazing rewards. Respectables are at four locations on the wheel: the top left corner, the top right corner, the bottom left corner, and the bottom right corner.
Regular: Regular rewards are the most simple or "worst" rewards. They are located in between the corners and the middle of the wheel. There's a total of sixteen regular slots.
– If there is more than one of the same reward on the wheel, you will not get that reward. For some odd reason, you only win something if there's only one of it.
Enough talk already, get down to the statistics right?
Disclaimer: Although we are confident that our results are correct we claim no responsibility for anything.
If you record your results, please send an email to [email protected]. We only accept results in groups of 10, 20, 50, or 100. Please only send your wheel results if you have 10, 20, 50, or 100 in a row. The more results we get, the more accurate we can grill the percentages down to. Thanks for your support.
Alright so let's begin! First we'll list your chance of winning any of the rewards from the category, then we'll list the individual reward chances.
You have a 1.73% chance of winning the Jackpot.
You have a 10.35% chance of winning a Premium reward.
You have a 29.31% chance of winning a Respectable reward.
You have a 58.62% chance of winning a Regular reward.


Just a few more sleeps until the new catalogue is launched. But before we get to that Stampin' Up! has offered some last minute discounts on a few more items. Check out the list below.
This is a great opportunity to grab some bargains so let me know if you want to place an order. Stocks are limited so get in quick. Email me at info@sallycancraft.com if you want to place an order.


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'Viva L'Algerie!': Amidst political turmoil in Algeria, New Yorkers speak out By Sarah Daoui
'Viva L'Algerie!': Amidst political turmoil in Algeria, New Yorkers speak out
Sarah Daoui
"I want people back home to know that people here have their back...we don't only have Algerian people, we have New Yorkers from all walks of life that care and support us too."
In Algeria, the words "government" and "mafia" are used interchangeably. Since 1999, the country has had the same president. In 2013, President Bouteflika suffered from a stroke, and has not been able to move or speak since. Essentially vegetative, Bouteflika is a mere figurehead for a corrupt regime of men, predominantly over 70 years old, who have been ruling the country. These men operate like gangsters, embezzling the majority of Algeria's wealth as the fifth largest producer of natural gas in the world. An exodus of jaded youth, as young as 14 years old, have been fleeing the country on makeshift rafts in search of opportunity.
Following protests for political justice ignited by students at the University of Algiers in February 2019, President Bouteflika resigned on April 3rd. Since then, a 90 day mandate was issued for his affiliate Abdelkader Bensalah to serve as the interim President. Earlier this month, Bensalah's interim mandate expired. Worldwide, protests have persisted in demanding the resignation of Algeria's entire government, which has robbed the country of color, room to aspire for success, or dream of development.
For every Friday that there is a protest in Algiers, there are subsequent protests the following Sunday in different cities around the world. In New York, Union Square Park has been the site of protests in solidarity of Algeria's fight for political justice.
For the 9th Sunday in a row, the park is occupied with about 200 protesters. Arms wrapped around each other's shoulders, the protesters form a circle at the center of the crowd. Little kids dance around in the middle of the circle. Women dressed in traditional Berber clothing shake tambourines, smiling while dancing. Three young girls have a table set up with traditional, homemade Algerian cookies and cake. On one cheek of their faces is a small painted Algerian flag, on the other cheek is a painted American flag. This protest is a friendly celebration of the Algerian community and it's supporters in New York.
Swaying from side to side, the crowd cheers "One, two, three, Viva L'Algerie!" First coined during Algeria's fight for liberation from France in 1962, this revolutionary chant electrifies USP on this quiet Sunday afternoon. Document spoke to five attendees, here's what they had to say:
Omar Challal, Organizer of the Union Square Protests
"We are in the city of the United Nations, so in that sense, these New York City protests are more effective than any other U.S. city. We must stress: we don't want a change in the regime, we want a full change of the regime. Everyone who has been in office from 1962 [the year Algeria won its independence from France] must go. We freed the country in 1962 but we haven't freed the people yet. That's an issue, we still have. We need entirely and exclusively the new generation to take control."
Youcef Oussama Bounab, 23-year-old Algerian Immigrant studying Journalism
"Statistically, Algerians are an isolated community in the U.S. Mainly 80% of our family is back home, while only 20% of our family here. This means most of your heart is still there. Whatever our family feels back home, we feel that pain here too. I want people back home to know that people here have their back. We're far away, but we still care. That's why I'm speaking to people and gathering quotes. I'll try to publish something in French for my family and friends back home to read. They should know that here today we don't only have Algerian people, we have New Yorkers from all walks of life that care and support us too."
Angel Valentino, American
"Algeria…I'm in my 60s, and Algeria will always hold a special place in my heart. And I'm not Algerian, I'm African American. Even though I didn't go there, I always knew that I could. That they would welcome me as refuge. Since the '70s Algerians have been taking us in. So many of the Black Panthers found refuge in Algeria. And everybody knew it too. Everybody knew that when you got to Algeria, Algeria opened their arms and they said "welcome." Algeria knew we were coming with nothing and they helped. They put people up. And that's wonderful. If you can do that for people that you don't know but people that are oppressed, then you can do that for yourself. People are powerful. Alhamdulillah and power to the people."
Anonymous, Algerian-American teenager
"The reason why a Syrian or Egyptian scenario will not be repeated is because it is not tolerated. Algeria upholds a democracy for the people. The '90s when the government abused its power over the people will not be repeated, nor will the 20 year reign of the Bouteflika regime. Now, the people are united together. There are millions of people all over the world protesting against this regime, trying to bring forth justice and a true democracy. The people all for one are empowering change in Algeria, and this movement will not give up, despite the difficulty of the government giving up."
Robert J Webb, American
"I was initially coming over to the park for the Free Lula Protest, but I heard about the Algeria protest every Sunday through word of mouth. So I decided to come on over and support both. Let's keep ourselves educated on these global issues and find the time to come out and support them. Most importantly, let's keep documenting it. I thank you for documenting this protest. If we don't document history, somebody else will document a mystery."
AlgeriaCulturePoliticsProtest
Document announces beauty director Lucia Pieroni
Touka Medjoubi.


text:
New ambassador: Seoul policies are viewed by Washington as pro-Pyongyang
New ambassador: Seoul policies are viewed by Washington as pro-Pyongyang. November. 01, 2019 07:30. lightee@donga.com,weappon@donga.com.
Newly appointed South Korean Ambassador to the United States Lee Su-hyeok said that South Korea's self-centered policies towards North Korea are inviting criticism from Washington that they are pro-Pyongyang. The Moon Jae-in administration has remained bent on improving inter-Korean relations even though the North has not been actively engaging in denuclearization talks. Lee's remarks will likely stir controversy as it is unusual that an ambassador who is at the forefront of South Korea's U.S. diplomacy publicly shares Washington's negative views on the Moon administration's policies on North Korea.
"Our diplomacy has been very much about us," the ambassador said in his first correspondent meeting held on Wednesday (local time) at the Korean Cultural Center in Washington D.C. He was inaugurated last Thursday.
"I will focus on conveying the benefits South Korean policies can deliver to the United States," Ambassador Lee said. "I am trying to build a strong case for how Seoul's policies towards Pyongyang are in line with and reinforce Washington's America First policies as opposed to focusing on the benefits that better inter-Korean relations can offer to the Korean Peninsula and the world. I've also asked my staff to adopt the same approach." When asked about the Mount Kumgang tours, the ambassador said the resumption of the tours would not mean much at this stage.
The South Korean presidential office Cheong Wa Dae was cautious about overinterpreting Lee's remarks. However, some in the Office of National Security of Cheong Wa Dae, which has been in charge of managing foreign policies, seem unpleasant. "We understand the context but different wording could have been used as great emphasis is put on the cooperation with the United States at the moment," a source from the presidential office said.
lightee@donga.com · weappon@donga.com


text:
Navigate Zambia safari
Navigate Highlights of Zambia
Navigate Why Zambia
Navigate The basics
Navigate Zambia Itineraries
Highlights of Zambia
Why Zambia
Zambia Itineraries
North-eastern Zambia
Southern Zambia
Western Zambia
Liuwa Plain National Park
Sioma Ngwezi and Ngonye Falls National Park
North and South Luangwa National Park
Lake Kariba in Zambia
Victoria Falls in Zambia
Birding safari in Zambia
Active holiday in Zambia
Walking safari in Zambia
Relaxed holiday in Zambia
Photographic holiday in Zambia
Honeymoon in Zambia
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Family safari in Zambia
Couple safari in Zambia
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Travel insurance for Zambia
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Travelling to Zambia
Transport in Zambia
Packing list for Zambia
Shopping and markets in Zambia
Zambia food and tipping practices
At your lodge in Zambia
Cash and payments in Zambia
Healthcare system Zambia
Medical emergencies in Zambia
Vaccinations for Zambia
A luxury Zambia safari
Affordable Zambia safari
Budget Zambia safari
Languages in Zambia
The cultures of Zambia
Is Zambia safe?
solo holiday in zambia
As Zambia's road and transport infrastructure continues to develop, even its more remote regions will become exciting options for solo travellers. For the time being, however, the country's more isolated corners are best explored in company, and ideally with an extra vehicle as backup if you're planning to self-drive. In general, solo travellers will have the best experience by basing themselves in more populated regions where there's good infrastructure, a host of established tour operators and a community of fellow travellers to meet and team up with. Livingstone delivers best on all of these. Its proximity to Victoria Falls, Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park
Kafue National Park and even Lake Kariba mean that a holiday centred in Zambia's southernmost town is still the best option for those going at it alone. Lusaka, Zambia's capital, is the other good alternative. Many group tours start in Lusaka and you'll find a number of trusted operators offering safaris and adventure holidays in the country's central and northern regions, especially to Lower Zambezi National Park, Lake Kariba and South Luangwa National Park.
Visiting Victoria Falls itself is a must. The walkways through Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, which borders the falls and the stretch of the Zambezi River above them, are safe, fun and easy to navigate alone. Further options for solo travellers include a sunset cruise, kayaking, the famous Victoria Falls bungee jump, white-water rafting, or tiger fishing on the Zambezi River. Although the Zambezi flows through six countries, here – above Victoria Falls – is where travellers can experience Africa's 'River of Life' at its finest and most spectacular.
North of the falls, Kafue National Park is great for wildlife-lovers and can be visited by joining a two- or three-day group tour from Livingstone. More adventurous solo travellers can head further afield to the Barotse Floodplain and Ngonye Falls on four- or five-day tiger fishing safaris. Almost equidistant from Lusaka and Livingstone, Lake Kariba is another top highlight, with everything from water sports to Big Five game viewing on offer.
Solo self-driving is not recommended in Zambia. While the country is relatively safe and its people among the friendliest on the continent, the lack of infrastructure outside its built-up areas makes it extremely risky to travel alone. As a solo traveller, your safest (and certainly most affordable) option is to join one of the many group safaris offered by private tour operators. These usually start and end in Livingstone or Lusaka and everything from budget camping to more luxurious group adventures are available. Ensure you have up-to-date health and travel insurance and vaccination certificates.
English is widely spoken in Zambia but learning a little about the local customs and attitudes is always appreciated and will also help keep you from becoming a target for thieves and swindlers. These are not a major problem in Zambia, but be especially careful and attentive in tourist hotspots. It's best not to walk alone at night, especially in the larger towns, and during the day move confidently and purposefully. Take particular care when drawing money and don't carry more than you need with you on the streets.
Popular Zambia Safaris
Jewels of Zimbabwe and Zambia Safari (9 days)
Fall under the spell of three prime attractions in Zimbabwe and Zambia – Victoria Falls, Hwange National Park and the Mana Pools ...
Luxury Zambian Odyssey (7 days)
One week safari to three Zambian national parks, including the flagship South Luangwa, and end in style with a visit to the remarkable Victoria Falls...
Quick Victoria Falls and Chobe Experience (5 days)
Visit Livingstone, Zambia, to marvel at the Victoria Falls – or 'the smoke that thunders' – before going on safari and a river cruise in Botswana's Chobe National Park...
City and Safari in Southern Africa (14 days)
Majestic wildlife and the riches of Africa. ...
Deluxe Honeymoon Safari in Cape Town, Kruger and Victoria Falls (10 days)
Combine three of Southern Africa's most loved destinations into one romantic getaway and you'll share the memories forever...
Best of Zambia Wilderness Safari (10 days)
With some of the wildest and most remote game areas on the continent, and a remarkably low population in a massive country, Zambia has an aura of mystery waiting to be uncovered....
South Africa and Zambia honeymoon
Explore the romantic Atlantic Ocean with it's multi-cultural heritage and a Big Five safari in the Sabi Sands, finally ending off at Victoria Falls from the Zambian side...
Wilderness safari in Kenya, Zambia and Zimbabwe (10 days)
Why not visit more than one exciting African destination? See the Great Migration, Victoria Falls and wildlife-rich Hwange National Park...
Grand Zambia Wildlife Safari (9 days)
Combine water and wildlife in a journey that takes you from the Victoria Falls to Kafue and South Luangwa national parks – Zambia at its best...
Western Zambia's topography is largely defined by two of its biggest rivers: the Zambezi and the Kafue, both of which have carved wide valleys into Zambia's plateaus…
Zambia in September
By September things are hotting up in Zambia, as temperatures rise and the increasingly water-stressed animals compete for resources. As more pools dry, fish are exposed…
Lake Kariba is the world's largest man-made lake and reservoir by volume Lake Kariba is the world's largest man-made dam by volume, extending over 5000km2 along…
Arguably Africa's most famous attraction, the 1.7km-wide Victoria Falls lives up to its hype, especially when viewed in full flow. At its peak between February and May,…
Comprehensive medical insurance is essential for holidays to Zambia. It should include cover for emergency evacuation and private hospitalisation within Zambia, transfers…
Zambia has a number of superb luxury tented camps and lodges, located in some of the most remote, unspoiled wildlife areas in Africa. Private, all-inclusive luxury…


text:
Q: How can I avoid my component remounting on redux update? I've noticed when an array in my redux state updates, the connected component gets remounted. In the logs after dispatching I see ~App & App straight after. I'm under the impression that react/redux should update the component. I've looked through all the documentation and based on my understanding the react reconcile algorithm should not be behaving like this.
Sample code demonstrating the problem:
import React from 'react';
import ReactDOM from 'react-dom';
import {Provider} from 'react-redux';
import {createStore} from 'redux';
import {connect} from 'react-redux';

class AppComponent extends React.Component {
  constructor(opts) {
    super(opts);
  }
  componentDidMount() {
    console.log('App');
  }
  componentWillUnmount() {
    console.log('~App');
  }
  shouldComponentUpdate(nextProps) {
    console.log('shouldComponentUpdate');
  }
  render() {
    console.log('render');
    return (
      hello
    );
  }
};

const App = connect(
  (state, props) => {
    console.log('mapping state:', JSON.stringify(state));
    return {
      state
    };
  }
)(AppComponent);

const reducer = (state = [{id: 0, value: 'test0'}, {id: 1, value: 'test1'}], action) => {
  return state.map(o => {
    if (o.id === action.id) {
      return {
        ...o,
        value: action.value
      };
    }
    return o;
  });
};

const store = createStore(
  reducer,
  window.__REDUX_DEVTOOLS_EXTENSION__ && window.__REDUX_DEVTOOLS_EXTENSION__()
);
ReactDOM.render(
  <Provider store={store}>
    <App />
  </Provider>,
  document.getElementById('app')
);

setTimeout(() => {
  console.log('dispatching');
  store.dispatch({
    type: 'UPDATE',
    id: 1,
    value: 'test1 updated'
  });
}, 1000);

How can I avoid the AppComponent getting remounted? I don't have this issue if the redux state is not an array. Also, in other react/redux projects I haven't had this issue. Same npm package versions. I'm thinking I've made a stupid mistake somewhere here but am at a loss as to what I've done wrong. Any assistance would be greatly appreciated.

A: I put your code into a CodeSandbox, it appears to be running fine for me:
mapping state:
[{"id":0,"value":"test0"},{"id":1,"value":"test1"}]
render
App cDM
dispatching
mapping state:
[{"id":0,"value":"test0"},{"id":1,"value":"test1 updated"}]
shouldComponentUpdate
render

So, I think your code is actually okay.  Sandbox is here:

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


 COLLEGE STATION – The George hotel, named after George H.W. Bush and George Mitchell, will open August 2017 in the Century Square mixed-use development.
Houston-based Midway teamed up with Valencia Group on the 162-room hotel, which is being developed in partnership with the university.
Cost of construction only is estimated at $19.5 million, according to TDLR.
The hotel has 5,800 sf of meeting space, a fitness center, courtyard with pool, and outdoor fire pits.
Amenities include Poppy, a restaurant bearing the nickname given President George H. W. Bush by his grandchildren.
The 60-acre Century Square development, located across from Texas A&M's Bonfire Memorial and the School of Engineering, combines retail, dining and entertainment, offices and apartments and a central gathering space.


text:
By Frederic Depoortere
Skadden, Belgium
Competition, European Commission, Mergers
Quality of Evidence in Complex Merger Cases
Frederic Depoortere (Skadden, Belgium)/ November 27, 2012 /Leave a comment
The Commission published the text of its most recent prohibition decision in Deutsche Boerse / NYSE Euronext. The Decision is lengthy and the Commission appears to have formulated a response to most arguments proffered by the parties. However, a review of the Decision brings to the fore a number of ways in which the Commission…
Economics, European Union, Mergers
Economic evidence and analysis at the early stages of EU merger control proceedings
Frederic Depoortere (Skadden, Belgium)/ January 17, 2012 July 16, 2018 /Leave a comment
"In appropriate cases, DG Competition may discuss in advance with the addressees or other affected parties the scope and the format of the Data Request. DG Competition may also explain the analysis that it intends to perform with the requested data in order to improve the efficiency of the data collecting process and to ensure…
Antitrust, European Commission, European Union, Mergers
How to deal with Chinese State-owned Enterprises under the EUMR?
Frederic Depoortere (Skadden, Belgium)/ September 29, 2011 /Leave a comment
On 13 September, the Commission published its decision of 31 March 2011 in China National Bluestar/Elkem. After DSM/Sinochem/JV (decision of 10 May but published in June), this was the second published decision which dealt in some detail with the question how to treat Chinese State-owned Enterprises or SOEs under the EUMR. The question has both…
Competition, European Commission, European Union, Mergers
Syngenta/Monsanto Sunflower Seeds – More Analysis, Please
Frederic Depoortere (Skadden, Belgium)/ March 21, 2011 /Leave a comment
The European Commission's Phase II decision of 17 November 2010 concerning Syngenta's acquisition of Monsanto's sunflower seeds business raises a number of questions. First, it took the European authorities long to decide who should review the case. The transaction was signed in August 2009 – it did not have an EU dimension and was notifiable…
Antitrust, European Union, Mergers
A GUPPI Revolution in the EU?
Frederic Depoortere (Skadden, Belgium)/ January 14, 2011 /Leave a comment
The new U.S. Horizontal Merger Guidelines, issued in August 2010, introduce the so-called GUPPI test, the Gross Upward Pricing Pressure Index. According to the U.S. Guidelines, "[a]dverse unilateral price effects can arise when the merger gives the merged entity an incentive to raise the price of a product previously sold by one merging firm and…
Odile Jacob: the rehabilitation of the parking arrangement
More than six years after the case was launched, the General Court rendered its judgment in Case T-279/04, Editions Odile Jacob Sas v. Commission, relating to the appeal against a 2004 decision of the European Commission approving the acquisition by French publisher Lagardère of its rival Vivendi Universal Publishing ("VUP"). The saga begins in 2002,…
The power of pre-existing agreements
Frederic Depoortere (Skadden, Belgium)/ October 11, 2010 /Leave a comment
In two recent decisions, the Commission considered the impact of cooperation agreements that the notifying parties had entered into before the notified transaction and came to two different conclusions. In Iberia/British Airways (decision of 14 July 2010), the Commission was confronted with combined shares of 70-80% for time-sensitive passengers on two city pairs, London-Madrid and…
European Union, Mergers
The Commission too lenient in merger control? Really?
An increasing number of voices are claiming that the Commission's enforcement policy under the ECMR is becoming too lenient. At the end of last year, two Commission officials, Mr. Parplies and Mr. Maier-Rigaud, published a detailed study on the drop in enforcement decisions (prohibitions, approvals with conditions and termination of merger agreements resulting from the…
Microsoft / Yahoo! Search Business – Substantive issues – Counterfactuals, auctions and two-sided markets
Frederic Depoortere (Skadden, Belgium)/ August 23, 2010 /1 Comment
In my last post, I focused on a procedural element of the Commission's Microsoft/Yahoo! decision. The decision is also very interesting from a substantive point of view, and shows the Commission's determination to investigate the transaction in some detail, even though on the face of it (as the Phase I clearance subsequently confirmed), it raised…
Microsoft/Yahoo! – the concept of a concentration
Frederic Depoortere (Skadden, Belgium)/ August 8, 2010 /Leave a comment
The Commission's recent decision approving Microsoft's acquisition of Yahoo!'s Search Business (including internet search and search advertising) contains an interesting application of the definition of a concentration under the Merger Regulation. In December 2009, Microsoft and Yahoo entered into a License Agreement and a Search and Advertising Services and Sales Agreement. Microsoft will acquire a…


Joseph Agar Beet, D. D., Richmond. Surrey, England, Author of "Through Christ to God," "The New Life in Christ," "A Manual of Theology," etc.
love; and that this Son of God took upon him our created nature, and amid its limitations lived a life both human and divine. In this sense I accept the deity of Christ. This faith is prompted by the profound harmony under- lying his various teaching about himself in the • four Gospels, and the homage paid to him by his earliest followers throughout the New Testament; taken in connection with the deep impression-made by him on the thought and life of men.
Dr Beet eminent in the English M. E. Church, was quoted on our cover last month in testimony to the Lord's return.


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As part of the Wakulla County School System, this new facility has the ability to accommodate 673 stations for students in grades 6 thru 8. The 100,000 SF building has a maximum capacity of 576 students. The common use areas are designed for an ultimate capacity of 1,045.
The construction consisted of classrooms, administrative areas, a cafeteria, a new gymnasium, staff parking areas and extensive site work.


text:
← What Palestinians Need to Do
Evaluating Obama's Presidency →
The Coming Kurdish Referendum.
A few weeks ago I wrote about the Kurds and their quest for independence and the establishment of a Kurdish state. That piece was published in the Jerusalem Post and you can access it here. On September 25, 2017 the Kurdistan regional government (KRG) will vote on a referendum on independence. Support for the referendum – and nobody expects it to fail – fulfills a Kurdish dream. The proposed Kurdish state would be in the Iraqi Kurdish region which has begun to establish some state institutions and has enough resources to sustain the new state.
But the interesting question is how the Kurds proceed after the referendum vote. The Iraqis are assuming that support for the referendum would simply open up conversations and negotiations concerning outside issues. In fact, the referendum will not change much on the ground but will send a message to the Iraqis and the rest of the world that Kurdish independence should be respected.
The referendum is actually a rhetorical device that expresses Kurdish recognition and their commitment to a democratic process that indicates serious intent. The Kurds have been slow to develop their own cultural and political institutions (not entirely their fault) and in the past have been more interested in concessions from Baghdad such as the Federalist structure that now governs the relationship between the Kurds and the Iraqis.
There remains opposition to Kurdish independence, even on the part of the United States, when the broader array of complex international relations is taken into account. Most notably, the United States always has to consider its relationship with Turkey. The Turks have had a contentious relationship with the Kurds for a long time and view some Kurdish political groups as a threat to the stability of Turkey. One goal for Kurdish leaders is to convince Turkey that they are no threat. Moreover, the US while supportive of the Kurds in many ways still uses them to manage the US relationship with Iraq. So the US has told the Kurds that they can do nothing toward independence or changing their status that threatens a stable relationship with Iraq.
In an interview with Bilal Wahab, a Fellow at the Washington Institute, he makes the case that the Kurds remain unready for independence and there are still many questions for the multi-ethnic state to answer. There are religious minorities (Yazidis, Zoroastrians) and ethnic minorities (Arabs, Turkmen) all of which must be integrated into some semblance of a democratic society. Is it going to be a true liberal democracy where all groups are equal in the eyes of the law, or is one group, namely Kurds, going to be privileged. Moreover, what about the question of those Kurds in other countries such as Turkey and Syria? Will they be welcome?
The Kurds have been promised a homeland and independence since World War I. There referendum for independence is a good start and I support it all of its rhetorical and practical deficiencies notwithstanding. But the journey from a discriminated against ethnic group to an independent state is a long and twisted one. Still, the Kurds are in line to start this journey with an initial "Declaration of Independence."
Posted on July 28, 2017, in Communication and Conflict Resolution, Political Conflict and tagged Kurds. Bookmark the permalink.	Comments Off on The Coming Kurdish Referendum..


text:
Amazon's Controversial Response to Coronavirus Continues
Amazon gives warehouse staff poor protection while also firing organizing staff, despite making more money than ever.
Tom Fogden April 21st 2020 12:36 pm
Amazon is facing a workers' backlash about its handling of the coronavirus and its potential impact on warehouse staff. Its latest response? Installing thermal cameras to help detect infected staff in its warehouses, while failing to engage constructively with employee rights groups.
The ecommerce giant is making money hand-over-fist at the moment, as people worldwide are forced to stay at home to slow the spread of the coronavirus pandemic. However, workers across the company are planning industrial action, claiming that the company hasn't done enough to protect Amazon warehouse employees from the virus.
Will Amazon be forced to reckon with its employment practices?
Amazon's Striking Workers
This isn't the first time that Amazon has faced industrial action from its workers. In 2018, Spanish warehouse workers walked out on Prime Day. Then, later that same year, workers across Europe walked out on Black Friday.
This year, Amazon has already fired Chris Smalls, a New York-based worker who led a strike in one of the company's warehouses.
"This is a proven fact of why they don't care about their employees," Smalls told Vice News, "to fire someone after five years for sticking up for people and trying to give them a voice."
The company has also fired a Bashir Mohamed, a warehouse worker from Minnesota. It claimed the action was in response to Mohamed failing to follow social distancing guidelines. Mohamed, however, said that in addition to organizing workers to advocate for better working conditions, he had begun pushing for more rigorous cleaning and other measures to protect against the transmission of the coronavirus. He believes his advocacy resulted in his dismissal.
Amazon has also fired two workers who were planning to lead an online walkout over the company's environmental record and its handling of the coronavirus threat. Emily Cunningham and Maren Costa – who were both UX designers and members of the Amazon Employees for Climate Justice network – are claimed to have "repeatedly violated internal policies" by Amazon.
Further Amazon Employee Action
Amazon can anticipate yet more unrest from its workforce in the weeks to come. There is a large strike planned for several days towards the end of April with workers from at least 50 facilities across the US expected to take part.
The workers aren't calling for much, but their reasonableness of their demands reflects Amazon's lackluster benefits and protections:
Transparency — immediately notify all associates at facilities with a confirmed case of COVID-19 so they can make decisions for themselves and their loved ones;
Sanitation — regular and deep cleaning of all facilities; Immediately close down and sanitize workplaces with associates who test positive for coronavirus; provide testing and full pay for two weeks so that associates at those facilities can self-isolate; temperature test for all who enter Amazon facilities; provide proper safety equipment to all employees and training on effective use;
Real paid sick leave — Provide 14 days of paid sick leave separate from vacation and paid time off (PTO) for all associates and drivers who are showing symptoms of COVID-19 and 12 weeks of emergency paid family leave so that associates can care for their loved ones if they get sick;
Healthcare for all Amazon associates — including part-time, drivers, temporary and contracted associates—and ensure medical expenses related to coronavirus treatment is 100% covered;
Hazard Pay — Pay time-and-a-half during the crisis, as associates are taking on increased risk by coming to work; pay Amazon Flex drivers an additional $5 per delivery; provide childcare pay and subsidies because of school closures.
Protect at-risk workers — Approve unemployment for associates who can't risk infection and suspend and reverse all "job abandonment" designations during the pandemic;
Respect workers' rights — eliminate the rate-based quotas that make hand-washing and sanitizing impossible; commit not to retaliate against associates and whistleblowers who heroically take action for public safety.
Amazon's Drive for Efficiency
In the face of this criticism, however, Amazon seems determined to press on with its business model.
The company's stock has never been higher, and it seems that Jeff Bezos wants to capitalize even further on the challenges posed to society by COVID-19.
The company is reportedly installing thermal cameras in order to detect warehouse employees that might have contracted the disease. The cameras are able to discern workers with higher body temperatures, and apparently works faster than the close-range thermometers that the company had previously been using.
"We implemented daily temperature checks in our operations locations as an additional preventative measure to support the health and safety of our employees, who continue to provide a critical service in our communities," an Amazon spokesperson told the BBC.
"We are now implementing the use of thermal cameras for temperature screening to create a more streamlined experience at some of our sites."
However, Amazon's workers are complaining that, despite efforts to screen employees, it is impossible to socially distance within the warehouses. There are also complaints that workers aren't given enough protection. Costa and Cunningham, the two fired UX designers, were also fundraising to buy PPE supplies for warehouse workers prior to their dismissal.
I am matching donations to $500 to support my Amazon warehouse colleagues and their communities, while they struggle to get consistent, sufficient protections and procedures from our employer. DM or comment for match. https://t.co/sK6EKP9KHi # via @Chuffed
— marencosta (@marencosta) March 27, 2020
At the start of the month, a group of lawyers, union representatives, and legislators wrote to Amazon demanding that they improve the conditions in its warehouses to prevent the spread of coronavirus. However, it would appear that little has been done.
Tom Fogden
@fogdenstom
Tom Fogden is a writer for Tech.co with a range of experience in the world of tech publishing. Tom covers everything from cybersecurity, to social media and website builders when he's not reviewing the latest phones, gadgets, or occasionally even technology books.
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