text:
'Homeland' Finale – The Verdict Is In
Once again Hollywood blames America first.
December 20, 2011 by Mark Tapson Leave a Comment
What a disappointment – and yet nothing could have been less surprising. The first season of the Golden Globe-nominated, Showtime series Homeland came to a close last Sunday in a finale that drew mixed reactions from fans and set a record for the highest-rated finale for a freshman series in Showtime's history. But more importantly, it confirmed that Hollywood is still not ready to take an unequivocal, pro-American stand against our jihadist enemy.
(Warning: MAJOR SPOILERS ahead)
For those who haven't been following, the show centers on a Marine named Brody (actor Damian Lewis), missing and presumed dead in Iraq since 2003, who is discovered alive, rescued and brought home to suburban Washington D.C. to a lot of CIA self-congratulation and media fanfare. Not only does he become "a poster boy for the war," as skeptical counterterrorism analyst Carrie (actress Claire Danes) calls him, he's even urged by the Vice President to run for political office. But Carrie has reason to believe that Brody has been "turned" traitor and is a sleeper agent involved in an imminent terrorist attack.
She suspects correctly. Although the series toyed briefly with the idea that Brody is nothing more than the victim of Carrie's increasing bi-polar paranoia, he was indeed working with the terrorist mastermind Abu Nazir (Navid Negahban) to take down the Vice President and Secretary of Defense in a suicide bombing. But the shrapnel-packed suicide vest fails him in the final episode, which ends with Brody pitching the idea to Abu Nazir that perhaps he can best serve their cause not by killing the Vice President, who has announced his candidacy for the Presidency, but rather by influencing public policy through him.
I wrote about "Homeland" before on FrontPage Magazine, at the beginning of the show's season, when I expressed skepticism about how the show would depict the ill-named "war on terror." My doubts were based on interview snippets with the producers, who hinted at the usual Hollywood moral equivalence and aversion to patriotism. But I was encouraged that the show at least didn't shy away from portraying Islamic terrorists as the bad guys, and after seeing the complexity and ambiguity of the first couple of episodes, I was just optimistic enough to conclude that it would be necessary to see how the season played out in order to judge the series fully.
Well, now that time has come, and the verdict is in. As gripping and well-acted as the series was on plenty of occasions, the finale laid bare its disheartening true colors when the real reason for Brody's attempted terror attack became clear.
The motivation for Abu Nazir's murderous plan? While Brody was still a prisoner of Nazir, our Vice President had ordered a covert drone strike on a school harboring Nazir, killing 82 children – among them, Nazir's youngest son. The VP then ordered any trace of the operation wiped clean– except for a heavily redacted document that somehow slipped through the cracks and made its way to heroine Claire Danes' mentor Saul (Mandy Patinkin.) Then video surfaced of the VP ordering the strike despite being made aware of the presence of schoolchildren. Screw it, he says, we can't be held responsible if the cowardly Abu Nazir chooses to shield himself among innocent children. So he, the CIA Director, and the Secretary of Defense determine that "the collateral damage count" of the attack is "within the acceptable matrix parameters" and the strike goes forward. Nazir vows vengeance against the principles involved, with Brody as his weapon.
Confronted about the drone strike on the school, the CIA Director's character excuses it by asserting "We're all about projecting American power now." By purposely targeting schoolchildren? The sick irony in this story choice is that no military power in history has bent over farther backward to avoid causing civilian casualties than America and Israel, while murdering innocents – especially children – is a proud tactic of the jihadists. But Hollywood can't bring itself to defame our enemy by acknowledging and truthfully depicting who the real savages are in this conflict, because America must always be to blame. It's the Hollywood way.
So once again, Hollywood posits that terrorism is "blowback," not jihad. Never jihad. Never our enemy's raging hatred of America and the West, their determination to kill and/or subjugate us in the name of Islam. Always our own geopolitical meddling is the catalyst. In Hollywood's complicit view, terrorism waged against us is justifiable retribution for American foreign policy and CIA ruthlessness. As the Russell Crowe/Leonardo Di Caprio terrorism thriller Body of Lies states in its opening, "Those to whom evil is done do evil in return." In other words, terror attacks are simply our "chickens coming home to roost," as Obama's America-hating spiritual mentor Rev. Wright crowed in church one Sunday morning.
Reflective of that typical self-flagellating position is Mary MacNamara, who wrote in the Los Angeles Times that Brody the terrorist is "driven by a need to hold America accountable for its sins." And this makes him a character who is or will be "party to events that kill innocent people" – which "makes him a whole new breed of lead character, neither antihero nor villain." No, being party to "events that kill innocent people" [this is leftist-speak for "acts of terrorism"] does most certainly make one a villain.
I've written elsewhere on FrontPage Mag that the only genres in which moviegoers can still find old-fashioned faceoffs of good versus evil are comic book adaptations like Captain America: The First Avenger and sword-and-sandal fantasies like Gladiator and 300. But when it comes to drama that's grounded in our real world conflict with Islamic fundamentalists, Hollywood can't or won't shed its moral relativism and self-guilt.
Freedom Center pamphlets now available on Kindle: Click here.
Mark Tapson
Mark Tapson is the Shillman Fellow at the David Horowitz Freedom Center, focusing on popular culture. He is also the host of an original podcast on Frontpage, "The Right Take With Mark Tapson."


CINCINNATI, OH (FOX19) - A violin was stolen from the trunk of a car earlier this month on West Central Parkway in downtown Cincinnati.
It happened Oct. 6, but Cincinnati police say they are still looking for whoever is responsible. The owner says she is on the lookout as well.
Waldron says she's been playing the violin since she was three. Right now she's a music student at the University of Cincinnati. She says her love for music has grown into something she hopes to make a career out of.
About five years ago she purchased a violin on her own to help her get started.
About two weeks ago her instrument disappeared from the trunk of her car. Waldron said she stopped for a quick bite to eat. About 30 minutes later she noticed it was gone. The search hasn't stopped since then.
"Panic," Waldron said. "With the violin and the case and there was also two bows in there and also a pick up to make it electric. "
Waldron says someone mentioned possibly seeing the missing instrument after a man tried to sell it to them for $20 on the day it was stolen. Right now she's borrowing one from Baroque Violin Shop so she can continue her schooling.
If you think you've seen the violin or know anything about it, contact Detective John Taulbee with Cincinnati Police Department District One at 513-352-1463.


Febr. Play online free slots jdownloader casinospiele kostenlos spielen . Hot 81™ Slot Machine Game to Play Free in Amatics Online Casinos. Play the Kingdom of the Titans slot machine, a casino game by WMS, for free online in your favorite Hot Neon™ Slot Machine Game to Play Free in Amatics Online Casinos Play Magic 81 Lines Video Slot for free at SuperCherrySlots. com. Juli Win real money and play Magic 81 Lines ™ at Bell Fruit Casino now! Spielen Sie den Hot 81 Slot im Online- Casino kizoom.co! Players deciding to take their game play to the next level should opt for an Online Casino. sich an: Casino Amatic Slots Hot 81 Hot 81 - Bester Online Casino Slot. Casino City is an independent directory https://www.amazon.com/Wege-aus-Computerspielsucht-intrasubjektiv. information service free of any gaming operator's control. This 3-reel-slot is played with 5 pay lines. Players deciding to take their game play to the next level should opt for an Online Casino. Casinos can only reduce the limits http://www.hof-apotheke-waechtersbach.de/146252/?cv=nc?/'" possible rates, so choose your gambling house http://www.collegetermpapers.com/TermPapers/Psychology/Complusive_Gambling.shtml. Wanna Play for Real Money? Slot machine Champagne is also includes twenty-one lines, ability to adjust the number of winning lines, bonus game winnings, as well as magical characters Eldorado http://www.drogenhilfe.com/pm18 Bottle of Champagne! Hot Die Beschreibung dieses Spiels folgt demnächst. This amazing slot will take on the ones who like to play video slots online for fun. Try to win coins in this no frills all thrills retro-symbolled online slot from going to be in your very own slot game heaven when you play Hot Seven! Ist der Tagesbonus über I like to play sometimes video slots which have classic look — symbols of wild 7 and fruits. The Hot Factor online slot machine offers excitement to the players. Love Novomatic casino slots?
Wild Respin slot - Review Amatic games in online Casino By playing this slot machine you will not have a reason to be angry, even though the title says nervous scientist who mixes different chemicals to you brought as many winning line of payment and therefore the direct gains. You have successfully verified your mobile number. This slot game free online casinos games a 3-reel game which…. I like to play sometimes video slots which have classic look — symbols of wild 7 and fruits. Testen Sie ohne Einzahlung. This amazing slot will take on the ones who like to play video slots online for fun. Gratis Playtech slots, Gratis On a first look it appears common and plain, however, while playing you start to notice that SportingBet Casino Review – Expert Ratings and User Reviews game is different. Hot Seven - slots. See if you have what it takes to romance your way to a big pay day by trying your luck on the Cashanova slot game, which was created by Microgaming. Don't miss a play today. Visitors to your Facebook site. True Illusions slot created by Betsoft. Simply play and you can become entitled to these great extras! Players deciding to take their game play to the next level should opt for an Online Casino. Make a fortune double or even triple with Double Triple Chance!


Last week, a Consumer Reports study found "worrisome" levels of arsenic in rice. Consumer Reports studied more than 200 samples of rice and rice-containing products like infant cereals to come to their conclusions. Organic rice baby cereal, brown rice, white rice, rice cereals. There were no exceptions to the rule. Foods containing rice contained unusually high levels of arsenic.
Based on their results, they're calling on the FDA to set appropriate standards for "safe" levels of arsenic in rice. While I wait for those results with bated breath, I have to wonder what this means for me and my family.
Are we going to stop eating rice? Are we going to eat less rice? Should we even be concerned?
After the hooplah surrounding the earlier Consumer Reports study about the high levels of arsenic levels in apple juice (and arsenic in supermarket chicken before that), we consumers became veritable experts in "organic" and "inorganic" arsenic.
Organic arsenic is the arsenic that occurs in nature and is naturally present in our food, soil, and water supplies. It may or may not be "safe" for our consumption, although most studies warn about consuming too much of it. Inorganic arsenic is a toxin that most agree is not safe at any level. It is a known carcinogen.
Inorganic arsenic has made its way into our food supply because of its routine inclusion in poultry feed, pesticides, and even fertilizers.
Because rice is grown submerged in water, arsenic is more easily absorbed into its root and plant system. This helps explain the higher concentrations of arsenic found in rice compared to other grains.
In general, rice grown in the southern United States has more arsenic than rice grown elsewhere. This is likely due to the long history of the agricultural use of arsenic in the South.
Also, brown rice contains more arsenic than white rice. That's because the arsenic is mostly concentrated in the bran and hull of the rice, and these parts of the rice are polished off white rice.
Arsenic in Rice: Should You Be Concerned?
Rice is one of the few grains that my family regularly consumes. If you have no digestive or hormonal issues, grains can be safely consumed if you prepare them in a traditional manner.
But now this jewel of my diet is being called toxic.
I'm not quite willing to give it up, but I will take this research to heart and limit our consumption. I'll also try this "traditional method" of cooking rice in excess water that Consumer Reports recommends.
Because my family has none of these obvious digestive or hormonal disorders, we've never completely given up grains. We did it as an experiment for Lent a few years back, but didn't notice any dramatic health improvements other than a few dropped pounds.
But if you or your loved ones do suffer these grain-aggravated problems, then maybe this latest news about rice is like the straw that broke the camels back. Maybe you're finally ready to go grain-free and see if it helps.
If that's you, I highly recommend you check out the Go Grain-Free online course being offered by my friend Jill. She'll hook you up with more than 150 recipes and over 80 video tutorials to help your family transition to grain-free eating — even including how to make some of your family's favorite grain-including foods (like muffins and pizza dough) with alternative flours.
Click here to find out more about the Go Grain-Free! E-course.
I talked to Mum-mum about it and they swear their Chinese rice doesn't have that problem but whatever, no more Mum-mums for my kids when the box is gone.
It's also white rice so there is very little nutritional value left in it. Interesting that what's left is the arsenic.
And the Japanese live to be 500 years old. What of it?
Yeah, but the arsenic we're talking about here is a direct result of the US agriculture practice of feeding chickens arsenic to get them to grow bigger faster and resist more diseases and then their poop ends up running off into the rice paddies. The Japanese didn't (and don't) do that. You're not comparing apples to apples.
I'm sorry but this is not entirely true for all rice. I'm getting getting very concerned with all of the sensationalist posts. Just make sure your olive oil is olive oil and that you eat reputable brown rice, if you eat rice. What was the other one?
@Vicki Vaughn Morrison — Actually, arsenic levels are higher in brown rice.
Yes, I would concentrate on Californian rice. I know the Lundberg Farms are going to be one this like while on rice. Just another think to thank CAFO poultry operations for!
Actually, "more susceptible" does not equate to has more.
The articles I've read so far on this primarily target rice from the southern US, albeit where most of it is grown. Califiornia rice tested much cleaner.
love living here…for all of its expense, traffic, etc…the year round growing season and ability to have rice fields makes it a wonderful place.
arsenic I've read recently it actually has some good properties. I think above all, a diverse diet is the key, both in genres of food but also in brands if possible. If one has a diverse diet, hardly will eat rice twice a day 7 days a week.
There's tips on how to cook rice to lessen arsenic content and a great luit of rice and rice products showing the arsenic content.
It seems the main concern is that babies and small children are getting too much arsenic since mainstream encourages rice cereal as the first food. Also, lots of vegetarian/vegan parents give their children rice milk in place of cows milk. The report eludes to arsenic possibly being in soy also, so soy milk would be a bad choice also.
what about rice grown in other parts of the country? we enjoy jasmine rice from thailand.
If you follow the link to the Consumer Reports article, you can find the PDF of their full report. That breaks down all the different kinds and varieties of rice foods, their origins, and the results.
great to know. I guess I'll just stop eating…then I know I'm safe. Seriously, I'll keep eating rice. I'm guessing there are worse things out there to worry about. It's good to be informed, eat a healthy diverse diet of unprocessed foods, exercise…but what fun is life when the sky is falling all the time? In many cultures, without rice or other grains ( oh no, Gluten!) they would simply starve to death. It's all great while living a hipster urban lifestyle, without a family to feed…but for some people, it gets a bit unrealistic to keep cutting out all this food from our diets. I have a garden, but that can't feed us all year.
I believe this is rice from china.
We are just now starting to deal with a gluten intolerance. The best bread we have found is made with rice flour. Could you post recipes for bread that use buckwheat, quinoa, or coconut flour? We also have a nut allergy, and nightshade allergy, so no potato starch or almond flour.
Haven't tried it myself, but perhaps chickpea or gram flour? It makes some pretty wonderful tortillas at least.
Did yall read the article? Rice doesn't inherently contain arsenic. Its residue from longterm pesticide usage, and its primarily in the southern US. The article doesn't talk about other countries much, so whether imported rice is tainted is for another article. And it doesn't matter if its white or brown or organic, if its from an area that used arsenic in the past, its in the rice. Arsenic was used heavily in cotton fields, and alot of those fields have been converted over to rice. Arsenic was also, and still is, used for food crops, and part of the point of this whole thing is to call on the government to put an end to it. As far as minimizing exposure, as has been noted in various posts here, it can be done by cooking methods – boiling the rice in extra water and draining it when cooked – and by avoiding southern-grown rice.
I have pretty much converted to Quinoa for nutrition vs caloric content. Any data on the alternative grain?
I say "wait for those results with bad breath".
And I thought brown rice is better … at getting you dead?
I was just talking with my SIL today after she had a thorough workup done at the doctor's one of her results showed a high level of arsenic. Now we're all wondering if it's the rice. She, like us is gluten free and has been relying on rice quite a bit.
Drink more coffee. 😉 Seriously, it's great for heavy metal detox. So are salt baths. Sea Salt is great, but cheaper water softener or road salt(NaCl)works too.
Choosing foods, while agribiz is out there poisoning the planet, is like playing whack-a-mole. No more corn and soy. Nothing with HFCS, and then sugar gets genetically mutilated. I had to get used to brown rice vs. white, and I came to love the nutty flavor. I was eating a lot of it. Now rice is out. Quinoa next, but for how long?
Gosh darn it, I just moved to Miami Beach and was SO excited that I could find *locally grown* (sort-of….from central FL) rice at the farmer's markets. I'm going to contact the farm I buy from to see if they know anything about the soil where they grow the rice, and if they have any comments about arsenic.
Ugh this is unfortunate because I love rice and used to enjoy it the few times a year I did have it. I just think they need to label everything. Why can't these manufacturers just be honest with the public and stop withholding information that will keep us out of the doctors office. That would be a start in the right direction. Thank goodness for prop 37 in california hopefully it passes.
Do not take my rice, I considered it one of the safest grains.
Hi, how does the toxicity of arsenic manifest itself?
I hate to bring it up, but some vegetables also have extremely high levels of arsenic. Brussels sprouts are one of the worst 🙁 There was a study at Dartmouth last spring (2014) about this if you want to look it up….
And i heard soaking in vinegar overnight reduces arsenic more? is this true? or only helps with rice fermentation?


LOS ANGELES (AP) Chris Patton scored 19 points, including the game-winning shot with 11 seconds remaining, to help UC Riverside slip by CS Northridge 65-64 on Thursday night.
Patton was 8 of 10 from the field and had six rebounds. Patton scored the last 13 points for the Highlanders (4-10, 1-1 Big West).
Josh Fox scored 13 points, and Chris Harriel had 11. Robert Smith had six assists. Fox and Smith also had six rebounds apiece.
Cal State Northridge led 32-30 at halftime and led 57-56 at 7:01 in the second half, but the Highlanders would not go away. The Highlanders shot 53.8 percent from the field for the game, while the Matadors shot 38.9 percent. The Highlanders outrebounded the Matadors 33-28.
Stephen Maxwell led the Matadors with 16 points. Stephan Hicks had 14 points, seven rebounds. Josh Greene had 13 points, and Treyone Williams added 10 for the Matadors (9-5, 0-1).


EXCEPT FOR PRIVATE PARTY BOOKINGS 10* PEOPLE OR MORE.
In the winter 2019 @ AMIGOS the kitchen will be closed except for private parties.
Remember to check out the best steaks in Benidorm, our full menu and vegetarian options. To reserve a table complete the form on the right.
Prices are listed on the right of the menu item except for the steaks where price is determined by size and type and range between 20 and 40 euros.
Gluten free bread available but must be pre-ordered.
Served seasonal fruits with bread and butter.
tomato on the vine with a homemade pesto drizzle.
Grilled and served in a caramel liqueur or soaked in honey with side salad and bread.
Served with a whisky and mushroom sauce and a shot of Jack Daniels whisky.
Roasted red pepper stacked with sweet potato mash, garlic spinach, fillet steak, caramelized red onion and crumbled blue cheese.
Prices for these premium Galician fillet steaks range between 20 and 40 Euros varying by weight and variety. Please ask server.
Roasted red pepper stacked with sweet potato mash, garlic spinach, atlantic salmon, caramelized red onion, atlantic prawn and crumbled blue cheese.
Roasted red pepper stacked with sweet potato mash, garlic spinach, chicken breast, caramelized red onion and crumbled blue cheese.
Myself and my sister visited Amigos on the last night of our holiday in Benidorm, we'd found this place on TripAdvisor looking for a nice place to go as a birthday treat.
Amigos didn't disappoint. It's tucked away up an alley way in the old town and I doubt we would have found it by simply wandering around.
It made a great change from the something and chips we'd been eating everywhere else we'd been. The food was tasty and well presented. The wine was good too. Try the garlic mushrooms - probably the best I've ever had.
It is more expensive than the something and chips places - but you have the expect that. I didn't think 70 something euros for 2 people, 2 courses, 2 glasses of wine and a jug of water was all bad.
If I'm in the area again would return without a doubt.


Ready To Pop Baby Shower Invites ready to pop baby shower invites ready to pop ba shower invitations ready to pop ba shower download. ready to pop baby shower invites ready to pop ba shower invitations invitation consultants. ready to pop baby shower invites ready to pop pink ba shower invitations candles and favors free. Ready To Pop Baby Shower Invites ready to pop baby shower invites ready to pop ba shower invitation download. ready to pop baby shower invites ready to pop invitation diy printable ba shower invite template. ready to pop baby shower invites ba shower invitation ready to pop printable shower invitations. Ready To Pop Baby Shower Invites ready to pop baby shower invites ready to pop green ba shower invitation download.
Ready To Pop Baby Shower Invites ready to pop baby shower invites ready to pop ba shower invitations invitation consultants. ready to pop baby shower invites ready to pop pink ba shower invitations candles and favors free. ready to pop baby shower invites ready to pop ba shower invitation download. ready to pop baby shower invites ready to pop invitation diy printable ba shower invite template. ready to pop baby shower invites ba shower invitation ready to pop printable shower invitations.


Here we have a small turned wood comport, or footed bowl, perhaps for rings or other small items of jewellery and a lidded pot for face cream or powder, both painted with blue lines in the traditional fashion. Though a little play worn, both are basically in good condition for their age (please see photo). The comport is 1.3 cm high.
If you would like them, please contact me for post. If you only want one, please ask for a price. I don't mind splitting them.


text:
Chicago Reporter (https://www.chicagoreporter.com/iowa-tests-cant/)
Iowa tests can't
By Linda Lenz | July 28, 2005
In 1997, as opponents of bilingual education outlawed the program in California, Paul Vallas took a savvy political stand: He announced a crack down on bilingual education, limiting students' participation in the program to three years. Too many Chicago students were spending too much time in bilingual education and lagged in their acquisition of English, he maintained. By acting quickly and talking tough, Vallas responded to a growing popular sentiment about bilingual education while protecting a program with staunch support in Chicago's Latino community – at the time, 80 percent of the students in bilingual education spoke Spanish. However, many Latinos didn't see it that way and loudly protested the limit, which then got expanded to four years, under certain circumstances.
By the time the School Board officially revised its bilingual policy, it had added a bilingual summer school program for struggling students and bilingual support for students in their first year of all-English classes.
As Catalyst Managing Editor Mario G. Ortiz reports, the policy has had its intended impact, greatly reducing the number of students in bilingual education, and has won a measure of respect from most everyone involved. Barbara Radner, director for the Center for Urban Education at DePaul University, echoes research findings that children need five years to move into English fluency, yet she acknowledges that the board's policy has resulted in more rigorous instruction.
A complementary School Board policy, encouraging so-called dual-language programs, has made the bilingual limits easier to swallow, too. As designed, dual language provides relatively long-term instruction in both English and a student's native language to groups of students split about equally between English learners and English speakers. Chicago's Inter-American Magnet School is a national model. However, some of the 26 Chicago schools that claim the dual-language designation are using it mainly to extend bilingual education, CATALYST contributor Meghan Muchler Deerin reports.
While generally accepted, the board's bilingual education policy is not without problems. As with the board's accountability policies overall, concerns center on the use of the Iowa Tests of Basic Skills and whether that is pushing schools into actions that aren't in children's best interests. The board relies on Iowa test scores to determine a student's command of English and, thus, when he or she must exit bilingual education, even though the test was not designed for that use. The board then evaluates schools on the basis of their exit rates. "I'm looking for improvement in the transition rate," says Armando Almendarez, deputy chief education officer. "If not, what's the problem here?" However, most teachers believe that for young children especially, learning skills in the native language comes first. Research, as well as people of good will, are on both sides of the issue.
Central office is in no position to say that it knows best; indeed, in most academic areas, there is no one best program. Quality of implementation matters more. What parents and educators do need from central office is data that show them whether their bilingual education programs are meeting the goals they have for their children. Are the children in dual-language Lozano School becoming literate in English and Spanish? Are the children who exit quickly from transitional bilingual education programs passing their courses and staying in school? Are there differences in such statistics between schools using the same approaches? What happens when students hit high school, and why? Getting this information about your own school is crucial; getting it about other schools, for comparison, would provide an added boost.
ABOUT US We are pleased to report that seven reporters from Catalyst and The Chicago Reporter, our sister publication, have won a Casey Medal for Meritorious Journalism for their work together on the "Chicago Matters" series published last spring. Congratulations to Dan Weissmann, Elizabeth Duffrin, Maureen Kelleher and Brett Schaeffer of Catalyst and Mick Dumke, Sarah Karp and Brian Rogal of The Reporter.
Moving the legacy forward
When Catalyst Chicago went to press with this issue, lawmakers in Springfield had finally passed a stopgap budget that will let schools open in the fall, in Chicago and in other districts that had sounded the alarm about possible shutdowns. After a year-long stalemate, the temporary budget will allow the wheels of state government to continue turning for a time. But there's no reason to breathe a sigh of relief, at least for longer than a few seconds.
School portfolio needs a plan
Charter schools present the most controversial and divisive issue I've encountered in 36 years of education reporting. Supporters passionately defend charters, and opponents fiercely attack them, leaving little room for rational consideration of their merits and shortcomings, and what role they might best play in a school district's game plan. In this issue, we hope to bring some measure of clarity to the debate by illuminating the issues through the experiences of one charter network and school communities that have rallied to compete against charters.
Well, since you asked …
I'm often asked — by friends, television hosts, people I've just met — whether Chicago's public schools have gotten any better after decades of reform. I know they'd like a simple yes or no, but I find neither satisfying. Rather, it's been more like yes and no, or two steps forward, one step back.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


text:
UK retail sales growth grinds to a halt in February
Since January sales drew to a close, British retailers have surprised City economists by suffering an unexpected slowdown in sales, according to a recent survey.
The Confederation of British Industry's (CBI) Distributive Trades Survey of 138 firms including 62 retailers showed that both volume of retail sales and orders failed to meet expectations of growth in February, following six months of buoyant sales.
A total of 30% of respondents reported that sales volumes were up from a year ago, while 29% said they were down, giving a balance of +1%.
The balance was the lowest reading since November 2013 and below retailers' expectations of +42% in January's survey. Economists polled by Reuters had forecast sales growth would slow only slightly in February, predicting a balance of +34 in February after +39 in January.
The report pointed to tough trading conditions in the months ahead, with orders from suppliers falling this month by seven percent. Employment was down by 21 percent compared to last year and was predicted by employers to continue to fall over the coming months. Companies surveyed account for the employment of a third of retail staff working in the UK.
The CBI reported that "overall trading conditions on the high street remain challenging."
On the plus side, volume of Internet sales rose from January by 47 percent, at a pace broadly in line with expectations (+49%). The number of retailers who expect their overall business situation to improve over the next three months was up by 11 percent from January.
The CBI reported that some sub-sectors recorded growth in sales volumes, including chemists. But grocers' sales fell from levels a year ago, as did those of non-specialised stores, including department stores, and clothing shops.
Rain Newton-Smith, CBI director of economics said, "After a strong start to the year, retailers were disappointed by the unexpected halt in sales growth. In particular, continually heavy discounting in the grocers sector seems to be weighing on activity.
"Looking ahead, the outlook for the retail sector is fairly positive, with the boost to household incomes from falling inflation likely to support spending. However, as this survey shows, overall trading conditions on the high street remain challenging."
PreviousMetsä Board showcases new cardboard packaging for cosmetics market
NextConsumers want mobile and digital interactions while shopping, survey reveals


text:
Liverpool captain Henderson demands mental strength in Premier League title fight
Dom Farrell
02:57 EAT 05/03/2019
The Reds' captain has urged his team-mates to improve their performance level following another 0-0 draw against Everton on Sunday
Jordan Henderson has called on Liverpool to show a title-winning mentality after surrendering top spot in the Premier League to Manchester City.
Jurgen Klopp's side were unable to break Everton down as Sunday's Merseyside derby finished goalless - the Reds' fourth draw in their last six league matches.
It means defending champions City are now a point ahead with nine games to play in a title race that promises to go to the wire.
Mbappe linking with Icardi like he did with Falcao at Monaco - PSG coach Tuchel
'Inter were my best option' - Lukaku has no regrets on leaving Man Utd following Coppa Italia brace
Messi reveals the 'special' La Liga record he considers one of his best
Emery's Arsenal are no better than Wenger's & missing out on top four would be failure – Parlour
Another blank in front of goal led to accusations in some quarters that Liverpool are starting to buckle under the pressure being applied by Pep Guardiola's men.
Captain Henderson disputes that notion and feels his team-mates can only answer their critics on the field.
"It's no good talking about it, we have to respond on the pitch. We have a lot of games left to do that so it is down to us," Henderson said.
"Football is a lot to do with mentality. Obviously, talent is important, and we've got that in abundance, but what we need to show most in the next nine games – and in the Champions League – is our mentality.
"We can achieve what we want to achieve. It is down to us on the pitch to show that."
Henderson put Liverpool's struggles in recent weeks down to the inability to score, with the clash against the Toffees being their third 0-0 in their last four fixtures.
Star striker Mohamed Salah hasn't found the net in his last four appearances, while fellow attacker Roberto Firmino hasn't scored since the club's game against Crystal Palace on January 19.
However, the England international is adamant their overall team performances have been solid and all they need is the finishing touch to ensure they start turning draws into wins.
"What was missing against Everton? Scoring," Henderson added. "We created enough to win the game, and if we'd scored one or two goals it would have been perfect.
"Everyone would have said, 'It's a good away performance in a derby'. But when you don't score, people start analysing differently."
Liverpool's next fixture is against Burnley on Sunday as they look to return to winning ways in the Premier League.


text:
Chapter 218 FINANCIAL MATTERS PERTAINING TO POLITICAL SUBDIVISIONS Entire Chapter
Auditor selection procedures.
Section 218.391, Florida Statutes 2004
218.391 Auditor selection procedures.--
(1) Each local governmental entity, district school board, charter school, or charter technical career center shall use auditor selection procedures when selecting an auditor to conduct the annual financial audit required in s. 218.39
(2) The governing body of a charter county, municipality, special district, charter school, or charter technical career center shall establish an auditor selection committee and auditor selection procedures or use the procedures outlined in subsection (3). The purpose of the committee and the procedures is to contract with an auditor to conduct the annual financial audit required in s. 218.39
(3) The governing body of a noncharter county or district school board that retains a certified public accountant shall establish an auditor selection committee and select an auditor according to the following procedure:
(a) For each noncharter county, the auditor selection committee shall consist of the county officers elected pursuant to s. 1(d), Art. VIII of the State Constitution, and one member of the board of county commissioners or its designee.
(b) The committee shall publicly announce, in a uniform and consistent manner, each occasion when auditing services are required to be purchased. Public notice must include a general description of the audit and must indicate how interested certified public accountants can apply for consideration.
(c) The committee shall encourage firms engaged in the lawful practice of public accounting who desire to provide professional services to submit annually a statement of qualifications and performance data.
(d) Any certified public accountant desiring to provide auditing services shall first be qualified pursuant to law. The committee shall make a finding that the firm or individual to be employed is fully qualified to render the required services. Among the factors to be considered in making this finding are the capabilities, adequacy of personnel, past record, and experience of the firm or individual.
(e) The committee shall adopt procedures for the evaluation of professional services, including, but not limited to, capabilities, adequacy of personnel, past record, experience, results of recent external quality control reviews, and such other factors as may be determined by the committee to be applicable to its particular requirements.
(f) The public shall not be excluded from the proceedings under this subsection.
(g) The committee shall evaluate current statements of qualifications and performance data on file with the committee, together with those that may be submitted by other firms regarding the proposed audit, and shall conduct discussions with, and may require public presentations by, no fewer than three firms regarding their qualifications, approach to the audit, and ability to furnish the required services.
(h) The committee shall select in order of preference no fewer than three firms deemed to be the most highly qualified to perform the required services after considering the following factors: the ability of professional personnel; past performance; willingness to meet time requirements; location; and recent, current, and projected workloads of the firms. However, such distribution shall not violate the principle of selection of the most highly qualified firms. If fewer than three firms desire to perform the services, the committee shall recommend such firms as it determines to be qualified.
(i) The committee may request, accept, and consider proposals for the compensation to be paid only during competitive negotiations under paragraph (h). The firm ranked first may then negotiate a contract with the board giving, among other things, a basis of its fee for that engagement. If the board is unable to negotiate a satisfactory contract with that firm, negotiations with that firm shall be formally terminated, and the board shall then undertake negotiations with the second-ranked firm. Failing accord with the second-ranked firm, negotiations shall then be terminated with that firm and undertaken with the third-ranked firm. Negotiations with the other ranked firms shall be undertaken in the same manner. The board, in negotiating with firms, may reopen formal negotiations with any one of the three top-ranked firms, but it may not negotiate with more than one firm at a time. The board shall also negotiate on the scope and quality of services. In making such determination, the board shall conduct a detailed analysis of the cost of the professional services required in addition to considering their scope and complexity. For contracts over $50,000, the board shall require the firm receiving the award to execute a truth-in-negotiations certificate stating that the rates of compensation and other factual unit costs supporting the compensation are accurate, complete, and current at the time of contracting. Such certificate shall also contain a description and disclosure of any understanding that places a limit on current or future years' audit contract fees, including any arrangements under which fixed limits on fees will not be subject to reconsideration if unexpected accounting or auditing issues are encountered. Such certificate shall also contain a description of any services rendered by the certified public accountant or firm of certified public accountants at rates or terms that are not customary. Any auditing service contract under which such a certificate is required must contain a provision that the original contract price and any additions thereto shall be adjusted to exclude any significant sums by which the board determines the contract price was increased due to inaccurate or incomplete factual unit costs. All such contract adjustments shall be made within 1 year following the end of the contract.
(j) If the board is unable to negotiate a satisfactory contract with any of the selected firms, the committee shall select additional firms, and the board shall continue negotiations in accordance with this subsection until an agreement is reached.
History.--s. 65, ch. 2001-266.


Winters in Minnesota are tough as we live in a cold environment from mid-October through mid-April every year. Each winter we experience below freezing temperatures, snow, ice, and freezing rain not to mention the salt used on the roads and sidewalks that can get tracked into buildings. Commercial buildings are very difficult to maintain in the winter or any season in Minnesota and ServiceMaster Professional Services provides commercial deep cleaning services to 28 counties and Minneapolis, MN to thoroughly clean every aspect of your building any time of year.
Perhaps the biggest nuisance in the winter when it comes to keeping your building clean is the salt and sand used to melt the ice and snow. This salt and sand is routinely tracked inside buildings where it can create a chalky film on hard surface floors and damage the fibers of the carpet. The dry air of the winter also keeps these particles buoyant and they can travel into the HVAC system. However, it is not only the Minnesota winters that are messy, the spring melt and rainy season that follows leaves the ground wet and muddy which could also make a mess of your office.
Our technicians at ServiceMaster Professional Services provide quality deep cleaning services in 28 counties and Minneapolis, MN using the most up-to-date techniques and high quality deep cleaning products. We begin by sending an estimator to your business to determine what needs to be done as well as any unique priorities your building may need. This will let us know in advance what equipment and how many technicians will be needed so that we can effectively deep clean your building the first time.
We make sure to thoroughly clean every room and area of your building starting at the ceiling and methodically working our way down to the floor. Our technicians clean every aspect of the room as they work their way down including light fixtures and switches, windows, trims, molding, shelves, and doors. We also make sure to move any furniture to vacuum or clean the floor underneath.
By having your office or building professionally deep cleaned, you can greatly improve the appearance of your office which will reflect better on your company's image and help create a clean and healthy working environment for your employees. Contact ServiceMaster Professional Services or call us at 800-245-4622 if our commercial deep cleaning services can benefit your business in 28 counties and Minneapolis, MN. We use the most advanced cleaning equipment and techniques to keep your building clean and maintained year round.


See pricing info, deals and product reviews for Mind Reader Anchor Coffee Pod Storage Drawer For 36 K-Cup, Silver/Gray (TRY3PC-GRY) at Quill.com. Order online today and get fast, free shipping for your business.
Mind Reader Anchor coffee pod storage drawer in silver/gray color with patent pending heat-resistant shield adds perfect choice to store 36 K-cup coffee pods. Mind Reader Anchor coffee pod storage drawer in silver/gray color has ABS plastic construction for added durability. Drawer measuring 2 3/4" x 13 1/2" x 13 1/4" features 3 organized drawers with chrome handles and is ideal for home or office use.
Color Family : Gray/Silver Coffee Organizer & Dispenser Type : Drawer Depth in Inches : 13-1/4" Width in Inches : 13-1/2"


text:
Posted on October 26, 2017 by fuentj
Location: District Center Roof Terrace, 555 12th Street, Washington, DC 20004
Led by: Alison Pavilonis and Adam Davie
Sponsors: HITT Contractors and MetLife
Session Downloads: Session 01 Guide
Alison Pavilonis and Adam Davie organized Session #1, "Working Together," which was held at the District Center Roof Terrace. Adam gave a brief project history of the District Center building and its current renovation. The three presentations focused on multiple pathways to enable self-awareness through personality traits, diffusing and resolving conflicts within a team, and realizing potential pitfalls when trying to get a group consensus. Prior to the session, the team was given the OCEANs-Big 5 Personality Survey and Tolerance for Ambiguity, which was analyzed by our first speaker, Julie Broad. Small group sessions with panelists Christian Zazzali, Matt Robinson, Jim Landau, and Scott Silveste, who represented stakeholder views from the owner, contractor, and consultant perspective, provided the opportunity to share and learn from each other's personal experiences. Finally, the group learned how powerful transparency and a dollar can be through a real-time negotiation exercise led by Holly Ellis and Ali Fernandez.
Presentation #1 – Psychological Capital
Julie Broad, the founder of Organizational Sciences, LLC, and The Positive Organizational Behavior Institute, led an engaging conversation that defined untapped Psychological Capital (PC). Through her work with DHS and FEMA, she demonstrated the benefits of building up PC in order to increase resilience, self-awareness, and health and well-being. Ms. Broad stressed the importance of understanding ourselves both as an individual and as part of a team. She also outlined the HERO model:
H: Hope -Build hope by setting and maintaining goals using multiple pathways
E: Efficacy -Build efficacy (confidence) by going with natural passion
R: Resilience -Increase resilience by identifying creative pathways; reflect on assets vs. risks
O: Optimism – Increase optimism by positive self-talk and emotions
The group further learned about individual and team member traits by taking the OCEANs Big 5 Personality and Tolerance for Ambiguity survey. Every personality has a place and a time, in a team.
Presentation/Activity #1 Photo
Presentation #2 – Round Table Discussion – The Architect's Role: Working together with team members and stakeholders
Four professionals representing the viewpoints of a building owner, a contractor, and a consultant, discussed the architect's role in facilitating conflict resolutions. Christian Zazzali, Vice President at HITT Contracting, discussed examples of finding paths to compromise and reaching solutions as a team, in lieu of leaving details to means and methods. Scott Silvester, Associate Principal at Simpson Gumpertz & Heger Inc., has dealt with complex structural designs and echoed Mr. Zazzali's sentiment. Mr. Silvester shared a personal experience where honesty and acknowledging his own mistake eliminated the blame game and enabled the project team to come up with a quick solution. Matt Robinson, Principal at MRP Realty, highlighted the process of getting to the root of a problem. With his experience in the real estate industry and multi-family residential, Mr. Robinson shared a case study of how multiple floods in a building were resolved swiftly. Jim Landau, Director at MetLife Real Estate, added that good communication and collaboration leads to strong relationships that continue over multiple projects. The conversation continued through rotating small group discussions with each presenter. The conclusion, not everything drawn is buildable, but by working together towards a solution and showing kindness, one can establish a long-lasting relationship for the future.
[Presentation/Activity #2 Photo]
Presentation #3 – Activity: System in a Room
The last activity of the day, called "System in a Room," was led by Holly Ellis and Alejandra Fernandez, both Senior Associates at Jones Lang LaSalle. Ms. Ellis and Ms. Fernandez have conducted this activity for various clients including businesses and other CKLDP classes. The goal of "System in a Room" is to challenge one's ideals, pre-conceptions, and problem-solving skills. Participants each contributed $1 and were given pieces of paper with numbers or letters written on them. The four people ("management") with letters were told to leave the room and were given instructions behind closed doors. If they got the remaining people "workers" to get in sequential order, then everyone would get $1.50. If they should fail, everyone would lose their money. The "workers" were given specific instructions as well: stay in their seats and keep their number. If not, they would lose their dollars. After re-entering the room and revealing the instructions given to them, "management" used transparency and honesty to win over the "workers" after a long, back and forth discussion. With five minutes remaining, the "workers" agreed to move and get in sequential order. Ms. Ellis then mentioned that less than 5% of groups have success in getting the "workers" to move, which prompted a thoughtful Q & A. Despite culture, history, and pre-conceptions, this particular group succeeded through immediate, open communication and persistent transparency.
This entry was posted in CKLDP Class of 2018 by fuentj. Bookmark the permalink.


text:
Honduran migrants trek north toward Guatemalan border
MARÍA VERZA, Associated Press
1of8Migrants trying to reach the U.S. border rest at the edge of a highway as they await rides on passing vehicles, near Choloma, Honduras, Thursday, Jan. 14, 2021. About 200 Honduran migrants resumed walking toward the border with Guatemala early Thursday, a day before a migrant caravan was scheduled to depart the city of San Pedro Sula.Delmer Martinez/APShow MoreShow Less
2of8Migrants trying to reach the U.S. border walk along a highway in Choloma, Honduras, Thursday, Jan. 14, 2021. About 200 Honduran migrants, two holding a Honduran national flag, resumed walking toward the border with Guatemala early Thursday, a day before a migrant caravan was scheduled to depart San Pedro Sula.Delmer Martinez/APShow MoreShow Less
3of8Migrants trying to reach the U.S. border walk before dawn along the highway leading to Choloma, Honduras, Thursday, Jan. 14, 2021. About 200 Honduran migrants resumed walking toward the border with Guatemala early Thursday, a day before a migrant caravan was scheduled to depart San Pedro Sula.Delmer Martinez/APShow MoreShow Less
4of8Migrants trying to reach the U.S. border board a public transport bus on the highway to Choloma, Honduras, Thursday, Jan. 14, 2021. About 200 Honduran migrants resumed walking toward the border with Guatemala early Thursday, a day before a migrant caravan was scheduled to depart San Pedro Sula.Delmer Martinez/APShow MoreShow Less
5of8Police at a roadblock check the documents of migrants before allowing them to continue toward the Guatemalan border, on the highway leading to Choloma, Honduras, from San Pedro Sula, Thursday, Jan. 14, 2021. About 200 Honduran migrants resumed walking toward the U.S. border, a day before a migrant caravan was scheduled to depart the city of San Pedro Sula.Delmer Martinez/APShow MoreShow Less
6of8Migrants trying to reach the U.S. border walk along a highway in Choloma, Honduras, Thursday, Jan. 14, 2021. About 200 Honduran migrants resumed walking toward the border with Guatemala early Thursday, a day before a migrant caravan was scheduled to depart San Pedro Sula.Delmer Martinez/APShow MoreShow Less
7of8Migrants hoping to reach the distant U.S. border rest on the side of a highway, one kilometer from a police blockade, on the outskirts of San Pedro Sula, Honduras, Wednesday, Jan. 13, 2021. About 200 migrants began walking toward the border with Guatemala, two days before a migrant caravan was scheduled to depart the city.Moises Castillo/APShow MoreShow Less
8of8A migrant carrying a young child walks before dawn along the highway to Choloma, Honduras, Thursday, Jan. 14, 2021. About 200 Honduran migrants resumed walking toward the U.S. border, a day before a migrant caravan was scheduled to depart San Pedro Sula.Delmer Martinez/APShow MoreShow Less
SAN PEDRO SULA, Honduras (AP) — Hundreds of migrants hoping to reach the U.S. border gathered outside a bus station in this Honduran city Thursday despite continued signs from Mexico and other Central American governments that they would not be allowed through.
Santos Demetrio Pineda was one of hundreds who showed up with little more than the clothes on their backs for the long, unlikely journey, made that much harder by the coronavirus pandemic.
"We lost everything in the hurricane," said Pineda, referring to two Category 4 hurricanes that hit Honduras in November. "We can't just sit around after what happened to us."
"We are going to leave the country, to ask for help wherever they receive us," he said.
Asked how they would make it past lines of police and immigration agents already preparing for them, Pineda said, "We are going to ask God to open the doors."
Earlier, 200 Honduran migrants walked and caught rides up a highway toward the border with Guatemala on Thursday, a day before a migrant caravan was scheduled to depart San Pedro Sula.
That first group set out Wednesday but paused at night before reaching some 75 police officers, dressed in riot gear, who waited along the highway on the outskirts of San Pedro Sula. One officer said the intention was to stop the migrants from violating a pandemic-related curfew, check their documents and make sure they weren't traveling with children that were not their own.
By Thursday, more migrants arrived at San Pedro Sula's bus terminal. The station has been the main departure point for caravans in the past and several hundred migrants could be seen around the terminal.
Dolores Efrain Ortega, a bricklayer from the town of Cofradía, said he had travelled the route six times before.
"Here there are no jobs. Even if you are a bricklayer, there is no work," Ortega said, adding he was leaving "to get ahead, to have my own house."
But the migrants faced the additional challenge of governments that agreed earlier this week to enforce immigration laws at their borders.
On Thursday, Mexico's National Immigration Institute posted videos showing hundreds of agents and National Guard members drilling on the southern border. It said the agents are "keeping vigilant in the states of southern Mexico ... to enforce the immigration law. "
For weeks, a call for a new caravan departing Jan. 15 has circulated on social networks. But previous caravans have been turned back.
Ariel Villega, from the town of Ocotepeque, was walking with his wife and 10-year-old son. Aware of the hurdles that awaited them, Villega said, "We've got everything, the passport and the COVID test."
Guatemalan President Alejandro Giammattei on Wednesday night decreed a "state of prevention" along the country's border with Honduras. The decree noted the threat of migrants entering without required documentation and without following pandemic-related screening at the border. Guatemala is requiring proof of a negative COVID-19 test. The decree said more than 2,000 national police and soldiers would be stationed at the border.
The Mexican government said Wednesday that it and 10 other countries in North and Central America are worried about the health risks of COVID-19 among migrants without proper documents.
The statement by the 11-member Regional Conference on Migration suggests that Mexico and Central America could continue to turn back migrants due to the perceived risks of the pandemic.
The group "expressed concern over the exposure of irregular migrants to situations of high risk to their health and their lives, primarily during the health emergency."
On Thursday, Mexican officials said they discussed migration with U.S. President-elect Joe Biden's pick for national security adviser, Jake Sullivan, and raised "the possibility of implementing a cooperation program for the development of northern Central America and southern Mexico, in response to the the economic crisis caused by the pandemic and the recent hurricanes in the region."
When hundreds of Hondurans tried to form a caravan last month, authorities stopped them before they even reached the Guatemala border. Other attempted caravans last year were broken up by Guatemalan authorities before they reached Mexico.
Pressure to migrate has only been building. Central America was hit with two Category 4 hurricanes in November, devastating a region already struggling with the pandemic. The storms destroyed crops, shuttered businesses and displaced thousands.
Migrants have also expressed hope that they could receive a warmer welcome at the U.S. border under the administration of President-elect Joe Biden, who takes office next week.
Associated Press writers Sonny Figueroa in Guatemala City and Mark Stevenson in Mexico City contributed to this report.
MARÍA VERZA


text:
Q: How to get google hangout button click event? I tried to get access to iframe content from google hangout button but I ran into cross domain error.
All I want to do is make my own button and when user clicks on it, then google hangout button's click event is fired.
I want to know if it is even possible to make my own button rather than google hangout button...
I have tried many ways to access iframe content but I could not find any solution.

A: I had no Idea But can you try to change the Image URL and see what happens.Button must contain the app ID of your Hangout app or extension You have Replace APP_ID with GOTO [https://code.google.com/apis/console/] and create APPID here of your Hangout and see If It Possible after changing the URL

A: I didn't find any solution for this problem
it seems accessing to iframe events is impossible and that's why the owner use iframe to protect the code from being manipulated...

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


text:
Published on VOX, CEPR Policy Portal (https://voxeu.org)
Home > Measuring competitiveness in a world with global value chains
Measuring competitiveness in a world with global value chains
Michele Ruta, Mika Saito, Jarkko Turunen 11 October 2013
The depreciation of the yen by 19% since December 2012 has been a concern for many of Japan's trading partners. Is it really bad news? This column explains that the answer depends on the structure of global value chains. It describes two approaches to incorporate the international fragmentation of production in measures of price competitiveness that can provide new insights.
Since December 2012, the yen has depreciated sharply against the euro and the dollar. Traditional economic reasoning would view this a simple gain of Japanese competitiveness vis-à-vis the US and Eurozone. The standard approach to price competitiveness calculates a nation's real effective exchange rate, which is based on the assumptions all traded goods are for consumption or investment, and that all the value added in these goods is produced 100% locally (Armington 1969; and McGuirk 1987).
The spread of global value chains, however, requires a more nuanced view. Production processes are fragmented internationally and intermediate goods account for more than two-thirds of total trade. The point is:
Yen depreciation tends to reduce the price of goods made in Japan versus the US and EZ; but
It also lowers the price of goods made in the US and EZ by lowering the cost of intermediate inputs from Japan.
Moreover, Japan supply parts to many nations, in particular in Asia, who in turn supply parts to the US and EZ, so the overall impact is ambiguous a priori.
New ways to reflect internationalised production
In recent years, two main approaches have emerged to incorporate the international fragmentation of production in measuring the real effective exchange rate. Our recent research on the macroeconomic implications of global value chains, reviews these approaches and explores their empirical relevance (IMF 2013). We find that they both provide useful new insights but with a slightly different focus.
The first approach, developed by Bems and Johnson (2012), is to measure the competitiveness in 'factors' rather than 'goods'.
They argue that the effective exchange rate should reveal the competitiveness of 'factors' or 'tasks' traded as part of goods and not of the goods themselves. This version of the exchange-rate index (i.e. real effective exchange rate) uses (i) GDP deflators to measure changes in relative prices, because they are the most direct summary measure for factor (capital and labour) costs and (ii) bilateral trade in value added to construct weights.
A second approach, used by Unteroberdoerster et al. (2011) and later developed in Bayoumi et al. (2013), is to measure the competitiveness of the goods produced in a country, while accounting for the presence of imported inputs in production.
Specifically, in the new formula, changes in the cost of intermediate inputs are reflected in the real effective exchange rate. This version of the real effective exchange rate uses (i) GDP deflators to measure changes in relative prices and (ii) bilateral gross trade and the foreign versus domestic composition of value added embedded in tradables to construct weights.
Alternative measures of competitiveness have pros and cons. The index developed by Bems and Johnson (2012) is parsimonious and better suited theoretically for measuring competitiveness of a country's factors of production (i.e. labour and capital), value-added exports, or any other value-added variable including net exports. Empirical applications include forecasting of value-added trade patterns, net exports, and assessing a country's long-term cost competitiveness. Their index, however, may not be optimal for examining goods-trade patterns themselves.
The approach by Bayoumi et al. (2013) on the other hand is better suited for measuring price competitiveness of gross output, gross trade, or any other 'gross' flows (exports and imports). Empirical applications include forecasting of gross trade patterns and assessing competitiveness of a country's goods exports or imports.
What do different measures tell us about competitiveness?
The empirical relevance of new measures is illustrated for selected countries in Figure 1 below. Each panel shows three lines: (i) the standard real effective exchange rate, (ii) the rate measuring competitiveness of "tasks" traded (a proxy for the index developed by Bems and Johnson (2012) and referred to as REER-in-Tasks hereafter), and (iii) the rate measuring competitiveness of goods traded but with an adjustment for imported intermediates (the index developed by Bayoumi et al. (2013) and referred to as REER-in-Goods hereafter) for the period between 1995M1 and 2012M12. Standard weights and value-added trade weights are computed for a sample of 42 countries where input-output tables are available.
Figure 1. Comparing measures of real effective exchange rates
Sources: OECD, Fund staff estimates.
Differences between the standard real effective exchange rate and the new indices incorporating global value chains are significant. For China and Japan both REER-in-Tasks and REER-in-Goods suggest more appreciation over time than the standard real effective exchange rate. In cumulative terms, REER-in-Tasks suggests an additional 27% appreciation (relative to what is revealed in the standard rate) for both countries. For the US, the alternative measures suggest a gradual improvement in competitiveness over time (about 15% in cumulative terms) compared to the standard rate. For Germany, the compression in domestic labour costs has contributed to a decline in alternative measures from the mid-1990s onwards, compensating for the earlier increase. Most of the empirical difference between the standard and alternative approach is explained by differences in prices (CPI versus GDP deflator). The alternative measures reveal similar movements for these countries except for China where REER-in-Goods suggests a smaller appreciation relative to the REER-in-Tasks (14%). This difference reflects the relative cost savings on imported intermediate inputs that is captured by the REER-in-Goods.
For a broader range of countries, cumulative differences between the REER-in-Tasks and the REER-in-Goods are frequent, but generally small (see Figure 2). When these differences do exist, however, they are quite informative. The largest cumulative differences between the two measures of competitiveness incorporating global value chains are observed among emerging-market economies in Europe (e.g. Estonia, Hungary, Romania and Slovakia) and those in Asia (e.g. China and Vietnam). For these countries, participation in global value chains has helped offset the impact of an increase in domestic costs, maintaining their competitiveness. While magnitudes are smaller, the reverse is true for many advanced economies that are well integrated in global value chains. Their competitiveness has been eroded by the increasing cost of imported production factors from emerging-market economies. This has partly offset the gains in competitiveness associated with the relocation of segments of the production process to emerging economies.
Figure 2. Changes in measures of real effective exchange rates
Overall, both appreciations and depreciations tend to be smaller when measuring competitiveness with the REER-in-Goods rather than the REER-in-Tasks. This indicates that the use of imported inputs generally mitigates changes in competitiveness. For instance, the depreciation of the yen would typically lead to a loss in competitiveness of Asian products vis-à-vis Japanese products. If they import a large portion of intermediate inputs from Japan, however, part of the adverse effects of the yen depreciation would be mitigated.
In summary, the main findings and policy implications so far are as follows:
Incorporating global value chains in measures of the real effective exchange rate provides new insights on competitiveness compared to the standard approach.
The difference from the standard approach comprises that in weights (gross versus value-added trade weights) and in prices (CPI versus GDP deflator).
Most of the differences stem from the latter. The empirical findings are therefore similar to studies comparing the use of different price indices in computing the real effective exchange rate.
Differences between new measures are typically small. However, for emerging-market economies with larger roles in global value chains, larger differences are observed. When they exist, these differences provide useful information about the role of global value chains on goods competitiveness.
New measures of real effective exchange rates incorporating global value chains are, therefore, helpful additions to the existing toolkit in assessing competitiveness, though further work on the measurement and the applicability of these indices is needed.
Armington, Paul S (1969), "A Theory of Demand for Products Distinguished by Place of Production," IMF Staff Papers, Vol. 6, pp. 159-78.
Bayoumi T, M Saito, and J Turunen (2013), "Measuring Competitiveness: Trade in Goods or in Tasks?" IMF Working Paper 13/100, Washington: International Monetary Fund.
Bems, Rudolfs and Robert C Johnson (2012), "Value-Added Exchange Rates [1]", VoxEU.org, 6 December.
McGuirk, Anne K (1987), "Measuring Price Competitiveness for Industrial Country Trade in Manufactures," IMF Working Paper 87/34 (Washington: International Monetary Fund).
International Monetary Fund (2013), "Trade Interconnectedness: the World with Global Value Chains," IMF Policy Paper (Washington: International Monetary Fund).
Unteroberdoerster O, A Mohommad, and J Vichyanond (2011), "Asia's Supply Chain [2]", VoxEU.org, 12 June.
Topics: Exchange rates [3] International trade [4]
Tags: global value chains [5], real effective exchange rate [6], trade in tasks [7]
Source URL: https://voxeu.org/article/measuring-competitiveness-world-global-value-chains#comment-0
[1] http://www.voxeu.org/article/value-added-exchange-rates
[2] http://www.voxeu.org/article/asia-s-supply-chain-implications-rebalancing
[3] https://voxeu.org/content/topics/exchange-rates
[4] https://voxeu.org/content/topics/international-trade
[5] https://voxeu.org/taxonomy/term/2640
[6] https://voxeu.org/category/tags/real-effective-exchange-rate
[7] https://voxeu.org/category/tags/trade-tasks


text:
The library supports multiple execution platforms for the test and multiple process engines, so we supply different artifacts which you need to add to your project dependencies:

Please define the version of the library using properties like this:

```xml
<properties>
  <camunda-process-test-coverage.version>{{ POM_VERSION }}</camunda-process-test-coverage.version>
</properties>
```

### JUnit4 (only Platform 7)

```xml
<dependency>
  <groupId>org.camunda.community.process_test_coverage</groupId>
  <artifactId>camunda-process-test-coverage-junit4-platform-7</artifactId>
  <version>${camunda-process-test-coverage.version}</version>
  <scope>test</scope>
</dependency>
```

### JUnit5 (Platform 7 or Platform 8)

```xml
<dependency>
  <groupId>org.camunda.community.process_test_coverage</groupId>
  <artifactId>camunda-process-test-coverage-junit5-platform-7</artifactId>
  <!-- <artifactId>camunda-process-test-coverage-junit5-platform-8</artifactId> -->
  <version>${camunda-process-test-coverage.version}</version>
  <scope>test</scope>
</dependency>
```

### Spring-Testing (Platform 7 or Platform 8)

```xml
<dependency>
  <groupId>org.camunda.community.process_test_coverage</groupId>
  <artifactId>camunda-process-test-coverage-spring-test-platform-7</artifactId>
  <!-- <artifactId>camunda-process-test-coverage-spring-test-platform-8</artifactId> -->
  <version>${camunda-process-test-coverage.version}</version>
  <scope>test</scope>
</dependency>
```

### Spring-Testing with starter (Platform 7 or Platform 8)

```xml
<dependency>
  <groupId>org.camunda.community.process_test_coverage</groupId>
  <artifactId>camunda-process-test-coverage-starter-platform-7</artifactId>
  <!-- <artifactId>camunda-process-test-coverage-starter-platform-8</artifactId> -->
  <version>${camunda-process-test-coverage.version}</version>
  <scope>test</scope>
</dependency>
```

With the `starter` the further configuration steps are not needed anymore, as everything is auto-configured. This means you have to explicitly exclude all test classes and test methods,
that should not be included in the test coverage.

## Configuration

Use the **ProcessCoverageInMemProcessEngineConfiguration**, e.g. in your `camunda.cfg.xml` (only needed for Platform 7)

### JUnit4 and JUnit5

```xml
<bean id="processEngineConfiguration"
   class="org.camunda.community.process_test_coverage.engine.platform7.ProcessCoverageInMemProcessEngineConfiguration">
   ...
</bean>
```

### Spring-Testing

Import test configuration to enable coverage in process engine.
```java
@Import(ProcessEngineCoverageConfiguration.class)
```

## Usage

Wire the process engine in your JUnit test:

### JUnit4

Use the **TestCoverageProcessEngineRule** as your process engine JUnit rule

```java
@Rule
@ClassRule
public static ProcessEngineRule rule = TestCoverageProcessEngineRuleBuilder.create().build();
```
### JUnit5

Use the **ProcessEngineCoverageExtension** as your process engine JUnit extension (available for Platform 7 and Platform 8)

Either use `@ExtendWith`

Java
```java
@ExtendWith(ProcessEngineCoverageExtension.class)
public class MyProcessTest
```

Kotlin
```kotlin
@ExtendWith(ProcessEngineCoverageExtension::class)
class MyProcessTest
```
or `@RegisterExtension`

If you register the extension on a non-static field, no class coverage and therefore no report will be generated. This is due to the fact, that an instance of the extension will be created per test method.

The extension provides a Builder for programmatic creation, which takes either a path to a configuration resource, a process engine configuration or if nothing is passed uses the default configuration resources path (`camunda.cfg.xml`).

The process engine configuration needs to be configured for test coverage. So use **either** the provided `ProcessCoverageInMemProcessEngineConfiguration`, `SpringProcessWithCoverageEngineConfiguration` or initialize the configuration with `ProcessCoverageConfigurator.initializeProcessCoverageExtensions(configuration)`.

In Java it looks like this:
```java
@RegisterExtension
static ProcessEngineCoverageExtension extension = ProcessEngineCoverageExtension
        .builder().assertClassCoverageAtLeast(0.9).build();
```

If you prefer Kotlin, this is the way to go:
```kotlin
companion object {
    @JvmField
    @RegisterExtension
    var extension: ProcessEngineCoverageExtension = ProcessEngineCoverageExtension
            .builder(ProcessCoverageInMemProcessEngineConfiguration())
            .assertClassCoverageAtLeast(1.0).build()
}
```

### Spring-Testing

TestExecutionListener is automatically registered.
You can exclude test methods or classes from the coverage by annotating them like this

```java
@ExcludeFromProcessCoverage
public void testWithoutCoverage() {}
```
## Running the tests

Running your JUnit tests now leaves **html** files for individual test methods as well as whole test classes in your project's `target/process-test-coverage` folder. Just open one, check yourself - and have fun with your process tests! :smile:

## Aggregating results

Normally the results are written for each class under test. For aggregation of the results, there is a maven plugin to do the job.
This can be done differently depending on your needs.

### Aggregating reports in one maven module

If you just want to aggregate all reports in one maven module, the plugin can be defined in the POM under the build -> plugins section.

```xml
    <build>
        <plugins>
            <plugin>
                <groupId>org.camunda.community.process_test_coverage</groupId>
                <artifactId>camunda-process-test-coverage-report-aggregator-maven-plugin</artifactId>
                <executions>
                    <execution>
                        <id>aggregate-reports</id>
                        <goals>
                            <goal>aggregate</goal>
                        </goals>
                    </execution>
                </executions>
            </plugin>
        </plugins>
    </build>
```

This will activate the plugin in the correct lifecycle and generate an aggregated report in the directory target/process_test_coverage/all (if not otherwise configured).

### Aggregating reports of multiple modules in reactor

The plugin will try to collect all reports for the modules in the current reactor. For an example configuration see the pom.xml in the examples directory.
Please note, that the plugin needs to run *after* the tests are run for all modules, therefore the plugin cannot be added to the plugins section in this use case.

You can still configure the plugin in the pluginManagement section.

```xml
    <build>
        <pluginManagement>
            <plugins>
                <plugin>
                    <groupId>org.camunda.community.process_test_coverage</groupId>
                    <artifactId>camunda-process-test-coverage-report-aggregator-maven-plugin</artifactId>
                    <version>x.y.z</version>
                </plugin>
            </plugins>
        </pluginManagement>
    </build>
```

It can then be invoked by calling *mvn camunda-process-test-coverage-report-aggregator:aggregate*.

### Usage as a reporting plugin

The plugin can also be used in the site generation. For this to work, the same conditions hold as before.
The configuration for this use case looks like this:

```xml
    <reporting>
        <plugins>
            <plugin>
                <groupId>org.camunda.community.process_test_coverage</groupId>
                <artifactId>camunda-process-test-coverage-report-aggregator-maven-plugin</artifactId>
                <version>x.y.z</version>
            </plugin>
        </plugins>
    </reporting>
```

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


text:
Italian and Music (BA)
UCAS code: WR33
Our aim at the School of Modern Languages and Music is to develop and educate our students to become 'global citizens'. By combining Italian and Music you will gain a variety of transferable skills and knowledge beneficial to the world of employment, making you competitive and attractive in an increasingly global workforce and opening the doors to a variety of career paths.
Italy is a major actor on the European and world stage, possessing a rich and sophisticated culture. Italian is one of the official working languages of the European Union and of the United Nations.
We offer Italian for both advanced students and beginners. In your first year, in addition to your language tuition, an introduction to Italian history and culture seeks to provide a solid foundation for more specialised studies as you progress through your course.
Your understanding of the language will be further developed and refined during your year abroad, when you will experience life in a Italian-speaking country at first hand.
Home to the arts, Cardiff is a great location for the study of music in the UK. The city has a professional opera company, Welsh National Opera, and a professional symphony orchestra, the BBC National Orchestra of Wales. The School of Music enjoys a fruitful relationship with both organisations that allows, for instance, our students to attend dress rehearsals and buy cut-price tickets for concerts.
You are expected to have gained or shown evidence of working towards Grade 8 in one or more instruments or voice at the time of your application. You may be considered if you are not taking A-level Music but have Grade 8 Practical and Grade 7/8 Theory and are studying appropriate Humanities subjects at A-level.
As a joint honours student, you will find that often there are complementary issues and perspectives that link subjects, be they critical analysis, historical contexts or recent research. On completion of this four-year programme, you will have a high level of language proficiency, as well as a critical understanding of key aspects of French history, culture, literature, politics and contemporary society.
Research-led teaching that allows you to engage with new ideas that are helping to shape the future of Italian studies and Music.
High-quality language teaching delivered by native speakers.
A vibrant programme of extra-curricular activities to support your language learning and immersion into Italian culture.
A curriculum with a clear learning arc, drawing on the latest research and providing a thorough understanding of Italian culture.
The opportunity to spend your third year either studying or working in Italy or an Italian speaking country,
Fully-funded instrumental (or vocal) tuition on your principal study instrument.
The option in both subjects to write a dissertation lets you choose a topic that draws on both disciplines.
Exploring music within a broad cultural context, embracing the literary, the social and the political.
Opportunities for contact with active music professionals through composition workshops, performance masterclasses, the University concert series, and our careers talks.
BBB-BBC. Must include grade B in Music. If you have grade B in Italian at A-level you will have access to the languages advanced pathways.
For the beginners pathway you will need grade D in a BTEC Diploma in any subject, grade B in A-level Music, and grade B in a modern language A-level. For the advanced pathway you will need either: D in a BTEC Diploma in any subject, grade B in A-level Music, and grade B in A-level Italian OR DM in a BTEC Diploma in any subject, grade B in A-level Music, and demonstrable modern foreign language skills (such as being a native speaker).
31-30 overall or 665-655 in 3 HL subjects. Must include grade 6 in HL Music and grade 6 in a modern language at HL. If you have grade 6 in HL Italian you will have access to the languages advanced pathways.
Each candidate's profile is considered as a complete picture, taking into account your interest in and suitability for the degree, as shown in your personal statement and referee's report, as well as achieved and predicted grades. Your ability to present an argument, evidence of intellectual curiosity and your enthusiasm for and commitment to studying will also be assessed.
Other than your principal study instrument, you will not need any specific equipment.
The BA Italian and Music is a four-year degree programme. It is structured in such a way that you will acquire high-level language and economic competencies, combined with the skills to become an independent and critical thinker, equipped for professional employment.
In each year of the programme you will study 120 credits, equally split between 60 credits in Music and 60 credits in Italian. Your third year will be spent studying or working abroad in Italy or another Italian-speaking country.
You will combine 60 credits of Italian with 60 credits of Music.
In year one we run two pathways for students; an advanced pathway for students with an A-level or equivalent competence in Italian and a beginner's pathway for students with limited or no knowledge of Italian. The first year of this programme provides a thorough foundation in the grammar of the language for those students on the beginner's pathway, and develops the linguistic skills for post A-level students on the advanced pathway.
You will also study a non-language module which introduces you to the development of Italy as a nation, exploring what it has symbolised for different groups at different moments in history. The module will enable you to develop a good understanding of intercultural awareness, and the highly-prized ability to mediate between cultures.
In the first year the School of Music offers core instruction in analysis, harmony and counterpoint, history of music, composition and practical musicianship. As a BA student you will take a free choice from these subjects.
To complement your academic study, you are actively encouraged to join the University Choir or Orchestra and other ensembles.
Introduction to Italian Studies in a Transnational Context ML8179 20 credits
Advanced Italian Language (Year 1) ML8188 40 credits
Beginners Italian Language Year 1 ML8189 40 credits
Composition 1A MU1107 10 credits
Ethnomusicology 1: Music in Human Life MU1124 10 credits
Elements of Tonal Music 1 MU1125 20 credits
A History of Popular Music MU1126 10 credits
The Full Works MU1128 20 credits
Composition 1B MU1208 10 credits
From Page to Stage: Dramaturgy in Musical Theatre MU1230 10 credits
Practical Musicianship 1 MU1314 10 credits
Repertoire Studies MU1317 20 credits
Practical Contribution Portfolio I MU1318 10 credits
In year two you will again take 60 credits in Music and 60 credits in Italian.
The language elements build on the work undertaken in year one, and prepare you for your year abroad.
In addition to language, you will study 30 credits looking at Italy in a transnational context. This will introduce you to key approaches, methodologies and critical tools which you can apply to an in-depth study, looking at a range of topics such as culture, history and politics.
In Music, courses are more advanced and you will focus on more specialist topics, choosing from four groups: Composition and Electroacoustic Studies, Written and Practical Musicianship, Analytical and Critical Skills, and Historical Studies. Our year two modules on the Business of Music I/II are designed to help you better understand different branches of the music profession and give an opportunity for a short placement in an area related to music or the arts, either in one block or as a series of regular workplace visits.
Whose 'culture' is it anyway? Identity, Power and Memory in C20th Italy ML8283 credits
Ex-Beginners Language Year 2 Italian ML8280 30 credits
Ex-Advanced Language Year 2 Italian ML8281 30 credits
Opera Worlds MU2111 10 credits
Music Sounded Out: Interpreting Oral and Recorded Genres and Forms MU2122 20 credits
Orchestration MU2161 20 credits
The Business of Music 1 MU2164 10 credits
Performance Practice and Organology: the Long Eighteenth Century, 1700-1830 MU2167 10 credits
Reading Film Sound MU2179 10 credits
Music in France Since 1900 MU2211 10 credits
Tonal Common Practice: Styles and Techniques MU2214 20 credits
Studio Techniques 1: Midi and Synthesisers MU2231 20 credits
Ethnomusicology 2: Music in Cross-Cultural Perspective MU2271 20 credits
Analysing 20th Century Music MU2291 20 credits
Composition 2 MU2320 20 credits
Practical Contribution Portfolio 2 MU2360 10 credits
Your third year is spent in Italy or another Italian-speaking country. The year abroad will enable you to develop your language skills, deepen your understanding of Italian culture and develop your independence, resourcefulness and resilience.
Your options will include:
studying at one of our partner universities;
working as an English assistant in a school through the British Council Scheme, or
working for a Italian organisation or company.
If you choose the study option, we have established exchange programmes which provide opportunities to study in institutions in cities that have included Venice, Verona, Milan, Pavia, Parma, Ferrara, Florence, Pisa and Catania.
The third option consists of a work placement with an organisation or company in the Italian-speaking world. The necessary arrangements can be made through personal contacts you may have or by approaching organisations directly. In order to ensure that your work placement affords you plenty of opportunity to speak Italian and provides you with a beneficial experience, such arrangements will require prior approval by the School.
No matter what you choose, the year abroad is a great opportunity for you to improve your understanding of the language, immerse yourself in another culture, and gain international study or work experience. It is also excellent preparation for your final year and gives you a level of self-confidence and maturity that has proven popular with employers.
Intercalary Semester Abroad: Study Abroad (Italian, Spring) ML8091 60 credits
Intercalary Semester Abroad: Semester Work Placement Abroad (Italian, Spring) ML8094 60 credits
Intercalary Semester Abroad: Semester Work Placement Abroad (Italian) ML8097 60 credits
Intercalary Semester Abroad: Study Abroad (Italian) ML8099 60 credits
When we welcome you back to Cardiff in your final year, you will continue to develop your language skills, studying 30 credits of Italian language and a 30 credit Italian optional module, in addition to 60 credits from Music.
In Music, you choose again from the four subject groups, and can pursue one of the three major academic projects: Dissertation, Project in Ethnomusicology, or Project in Music Analysis. You may complete a short composition portfolio (Composition IV) and/or a 'closed' recital in front of examiners only (Practical Musicianship IV).
You will have the opportunity to build on the broad base of knowledge and skills you have developed to study an area of research expertise in the School, through taught modules and/or a dissertation. You will also have the opportunity to take part in our very popular teaching module, an accredited module where you will build on study and workshops at the University to undertake a teaching placement at one of our partner schools on the area.
High-Level Proficiency in Italian Language ML8366 30 credits
Final Year Dissertation - Italian (in Italian) ML8362 30 credits
Final Year Dissertation - Italian (in English/Welsh) ML8363 30 credits
Italian Women's Writing ML8364 30 credits
Challenging Tradition: Counterpoint from Bartok to Bartsch MU3120 20 credits
Studio Techniques 2: Audio and Hard Disk Recording MU3163 20 credits
The Birth of Modernism MU3165 20 credits
Nineteenth Century Italian Opera MU3169 20 credits
Women in 19th Century Music MU3212 20 credits
Jazz, Culture and Politics MU3287 20 credits
Ensemble MU3292 20 credits
Practical Musicianship 4 (Performance) MU3344 20 credits
Dissertation MU3351 40 credits
Recital MU3356 40 credits
Project in Music Analysis MU3357 40 credits
Project in Ethnomusicology MU3358 40 credits
Our BA programme in Italian and Music is team-taught, with the programme as a whole overseen by the Programme Director. You will be supported by a number of different staff, some focussing on academic performance in a particular area and some looking at learning and progress more holistically.
The University offers a range of services including the Careers Service, the Counselling Service, the Disability and Dyslexia Service, the Student Support Service, the Academic Skills Development Centre and excellent libraries and resource centres.
Feedback on your work is given frequently and in a wide variety of formats and is intended to help you identify strengths and weaknesses in your learning, as well as give indications of how you might improve in your performance in examinations and coursework.
You will be given general feedback in relation to examinations following the examination period and you will be able to discuss your overall performance with your personal tutor as part of the monitored student self-assessment scheme.
The Learning Outcomes for this Programme describe what you will be able to do as a result of your study at Cardiff University. They will help you to understand what is expected of you.
The Learning Outcomes for this Programme can be found below:
Musical creativity and imagination;
Key compositional techniques and skills.
Notate ideas effectively and correctly.
Knowledge of composers, their musical languages, techniques and styles.
Enhanced linguistic skills, as well as a broad appreciation of the culture, literature, and history of Italy and Italian speaking countries.
The ability to communicate clearly, concisely and persuasively in writing and speech, in English and Italian.
Critical reading, independent research, and writing skills.
Skills in literary analysis, interpretative reading, and written expression.
Analytical skills and developing instinct towards independent and informed, researched interpretation.
Notate musical ideas correctly and effectively.
Skills when working as part of a team, developing a collaborative approach to problem-solving.
Use of a range of instruments and their technical capabilities.
Of those who choose to remain in the UK, many pursue postgraduate studies such as one of the School's Postgraduate Taught degrees or a PGCE. Others start work immediately following their studies, and our graduates go on to secure excellent careers in international diplomacy, the Civil Service, teaching, business and journalism. Other employment options include roles as translators, language assistants, export assistants and proof-readers.
The skills developed within a music degree help our students to progress to a wide range of careers, both within and beyond the music profession.
Employability skills are embedded in modules at the School of Music so that you will learn both music-specific and academic skills that are transferable to other domains, especially the workplace. Our second-year modules on the Business of Music are designed to help you better understand different branches of the music profession and provide an opportunity to undertake a short placement in a music-related or arts-related area.
Our annual series of talks on Careers in Music offer a great chance to meet professionals active in a range of fields such as performance, music education, music journalism, arts and artist management, production and licensing, and composing for media.
If you are interested in teaching you may have the possibility of completing an internship teaching language in a UK secondary school in your final year.
Year two modules on the Business of Music I/II give an opportunity for a short placement, either in one block or as a series of regular workplace visits.
Related searches: Italian, Languages, Music


As Barney plays his little ditty, he gives fair warning the ground may be messy. Charming farmer Barney makes a helpful addition to any garden or porch pointing out the hazards of walking around "cow country" and that's no bull! Resin sculpture is hand-painted. Measures 7"L x 5 3/4"W x 10 1/4"H.


The fifth and the last of the new Admin Dashboard UI series are added toggles for some of the key Project and Topic Settings.
The keen-eyed amongst you may have noticed a new group of switches on the Project and Topic Overview sections of the Manager pages, which allow you to view and toggle the settings directly from the Manager page rather than having to enter the Settings page. There are also added visual cues to show the statuses.
Look for the setting you wish to toggle - Publish Status, Project/Topic Privacy, Teams or Guest Login. Simply click on any part of the toggle to switch the statuses.
Click and toggle away, tell us if you like them, or not.