text:
Mutope Duguma
Archive of writings of Mutope Duguma, who is a member of the Pelican Bay Human Rights Movement First Amendment Campaign
Mutope Duguma (s/n J. Crawford), D-05996, LAC B-5-C-141 - P.O. Box 4490 Lancaster, CA 93539-4490
Mutopeduguma.org
Why did five Pelican Bay guards beat two elderly Black prisoners on Aug. 6?
In: SF Bay View
Written Aug. 6, 2013 – The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation believes it is necessary to change the course of our peaceful struggle to one of violence, which does not serve prisoners' interests but actually gives power to the state to impose strict violent measures and actions that will subdue us as a prison class, while at the same time allowing CDCR to be justified in beating and murdering prisoners if they retaliate violently against CDCR officials.
Drawing by R. Garcia
Be it noticed that the CDCR conspired on this day, Aug. 6, 2013, to attack two elderly New Afrikan prisoners in the Short Corridor in order to provoke violence out of the New Afrikan prisoners. As a New Afrikan myself and understanding all too well what's at stake and why CDCR has resorted to such desperate attacks, I would first like to commend the two elderly New Afrikans who allowed their discipline to take precedence over their natural impulses, which is to defend themselves, initially by any means. Instead, they respected our peaceful protest.
Their belief in our peaceful protest allowed them to de-escalate something we prisoners know all too well could have easily gotten out of control. No prisoner will willingly accept five strong Pelican Bay State Prison officers beating on elderly prisoners, who they have in prison restraints already.
This is why the New Afrikans were chosen to be attacked, so that all prisoners who witnessed the attacks would be angry, because if an attack like this happens now, then it can happen to us all. Plus, no one respects or likes people who abuse the elderly, especially someone who has been entrusted with a position of authority to serve and protect all prisoners.
We prisoners insist that any attacks against any prisoners in retaliation for our peaceful protest must cease immediately and the officers who are responsible for such attacks must be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.
These particular officials who set out to provoke violence by attacking prisoners are not only committing criminal acts but grossly violate the authority entrusted to them by the public. For too long CDCR and PBSP have been abusing their authority, which each official took an oath to uphold – arbitrarily applying their prejudiced and racist views by attacking prisoners.
Therefore, we prisoners insist that any attacks against any prisoners in retaliation for our peaceful protest must cease immediately and the officers who are responsible for such attacks must be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. All those who had a hand in the conspiracy must be included as well.
Hunger strikers, weak and fragile but mentally strong after 35 days, say thank you
Written Aug. 11, 2013 – There is a true and righteous commitment being made through collective sacrifice by men from all walks of life who have come together to end an injustice. We suffer collectively at the hands of a prison system (CDCR) that has lost its morality, its ability to effectively run a prison system that protects the wellbeing of each and every prisoner.
Those of us who are held in Ad Segs, Adjustment Centers and SHUs 'til this day, subjected to pain and suffering that's being sanctioned by the state due to our peaceful protest, along with each and every prisoner who has contributed to our peaceful protest, past and present, by way of hunger strike and work stoppage, we hunger strikers commend you. And we want to say this before we deteriorate to a point where we're unable to say thank you.
To all our supporters: We can only hope that you do everything in your power to change these horrible conditions by continuing to work with prisoners throughout the state and nation in the hope that no one else in this country is made to suffer such a horrible fate ever again.
Send our brother some love and light: Mutope Duguma, s/n James Crawford, D-05996, P.O. Box 7500, Crescent City CA 95532.
Labels: 2013, abuse, attacks, CDCR, retaliation
The hunger strike is about helping all prisoners achieve their humanity
by Mutope Duguma
In: SF Bay View, Aug. 22nd 2013
Editor's note: Mutope had asked JR Valrey, Bay View associate editor who is also producing and hosting a series of hunger strike specials on KPFA, to interview him weeks ago. We asked permission for a phone interview that could be recorded for broadcast, but CDCR denied that request. So right away, JR sent Mutope a list of questions to answer and mail back. But Pelican Bay has been blocking the mail, so in this letter, the first we've received from him in weeks, he asks JR to try again.
Written Aug. 19, 2013 – I have not received the letter from the Brother JR, so I do not know what's up with that. But if he sent a letter to me, tell him to please remember when, because everyone is telling me they sent me this and that, but I am not receiving anything. I'll need declaratories from everyone because we are keeping a record of out and incoming mail.
I didn't receive your mail until Aug. 17, and that should tell you how they're trying to deprive us of any effective communication in order to compromise our correspondence. Hate has always followed hate, so they cannot change what they are – and that is vindictive, overzealous, reactionary individuals. And sadly they cannot even say why they do what they do.
Let the Brother know that he should hurry up because I am 53 pounds down, have not eaten in 44 days and I am weak and fragile, Mary, but my mental capacity is strong still.
Tell the Brother JR he can come up and visit or he can send me a questionnaire and I will give him the whole 411 at the root of our struggle and how it will serve all Californians. We are not just about changing our SHU solitary confinement placement; we are talking about helping all prisoners achieve their humanity through a sound, productive and constructive education that will help them be more aware of their lives and their actions.
Plus, let the Brother know that he should hurry up because I am 53 pounds down, have not eaten in 44 days [Mutope began his strike a day early, on July 7], and I am weak and fragile, Mary, but my mental capacity is strong still.
We are still in Ad Seg under Gestapo guard.
Send our brother some love and light: Mutope Duguma, s/n James Crawford, D-05996, PBSP ASU G-2185, P.O. Box 7500, Crescent City CA 95532.
Labels: 2013, hunger strike, retaliation
About Mutope
Mutope Duguma s/n James D. Crawford #D05996 - LAC B-5-C-141 - P.O. Box 4490 Lancaster, CA 93539-4490 - Mutopeduguma.org
In Re Crawford
206 Cal.App.4th 1259 (2012)
142 Cal. Rptr. 3d 388
In re JAMES CRAWFORD on Habeas Corpus.
Court of Appeals of California, First District, Division Two.
As modified June 13, 2012.
You can find this important victory for Mutope and others here.
Agreement to End All Hostilities (2012)
California Prison Focus
California Prison Watch
NCTT (NARN Collective Think Tank)
Prisoner Activist Resource Center (PARC)
Prisoner Human Rights Movement
Prisoner Hunger Strike Solidarity
SF Bay View
Articles on this site:
Infiltration through DNA (Feb. 2017)
There is Love in Peace! (April 2016)
Cultivate the seed to grow: Inside prison and out, we must nurture our youth (December 2015)
Mutope Speaks (Nov. 2015)
Head-up, Back-straight, Move Forward... Manifesto – for the People of Family Services - P.F.S. (July 2015)
Four years since our hunger strikes began, none of our core demands have yet been met: Our protracted struggle must continue
Pattern of practice: Centuries of racist oppression culminating in mass incarceration (Jan. 2015)
I'm just asking (Sept. 2014)
CDCr counterpunch: New rules designed to silence prison protest (June 2014)
Pelican Bay Update: What Change? (Apr-May 2014)
We are the World (March 2014)
How torture is inflicted on prisoners in solitary confinement (Feb. 2014)
CDCr calls hunger strike supplemental demands reasonable, then reneges; prisoners respond (Dec. 2013)
Herman Wallace, who gave his life to end solitary confinement, got no mercy (Nov. 2013)
Being normal is not OK (Nov. 2013)
Hunger strikers: Our resolve remains strong (Oct. 2013)
What a vacation: 400 miles by bus on hunger strike's 47th day (Oct. 2013)
Having the foresight to end all hostilities (Oct. 2013)
Hunger striker considers where we go from here, wonders, 'Will the Legislature dupe us too'? (Sept. 2013)
Hunger strikers, weak and sick, transported 8 hours by bus: 'Our strength is a reflection of your strength' (Sept. 2013)
The hunger strike is about helping all prisoners achieve their humanity (Aug. 2013)
Why did five Pelican Bay guards beat two elderly Black prisoners on Aug. 6? (Aug. 2013)
Hunger strikers denied right to read: Pelican Bay officials just don't get it (July 2013)
Animals: CDCR human exploitation in the 21st century (July 2013)
Sabotage (June 2013)
Peaceful protest (June 2013)
Treating us like slaves: an analysis of the Security Threat Group Step Down Program (June 2013)
Institutionalized racism and censorship are relatives (May 2013)
Hands off the Bay View (April 2013)
Motion denied, Governor: Medical neglect is still killing prisoners (March 2013)
The CDCr-CCPOA lying game: Prisoners united, women and men, know the truth (Feb. 2013)
Nobody deserves to be tortured: a response to CDCR's STG-SDP plan (Dec. 2012)
PBSP update: Assessment of meetings with assistant warden (Sept. 2012)
A victory in the First Amendment Campaign (Aug. 2012)
Duguma wins major court victory: Without a fight it can't be no struggle (Aug 2012)
How Easily We Forget (Jan. 2012)
They took the 15 of us hunger strikers to ASU-Hell-Row (Dec. 2011)
SHU prisoners sentenced to civil death begin hunger strike (July 1, 2011)
The Call: Hunger strike to begin July 1 (Jun. 2011)
Why did five Pelican Bay guards beat two elderly B...
The hunger strike is about helping all prisoners a...


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Q: Can I use the Facebook Javascript SKD with a dynamic script tag insert? What am I trying to achieve.
To create a module that loads the Facebook Javascript SDK without having to paste that script tag into your HTML and manually enter your app details, yes this may seem like a waste of time but It seems to make more sense to me.
For example this module would take a config with your details and everything could be set via Javascript instead of the initialization code being in your HTML file and the rest of your logic being in your script files.
My problem.
When I dynamically append the script and

I get an error FB.init has already been called - this could indicate a problem
This seems strange to me because I only have once instance FB.init is called. Effectively my script is the same as if you would manually add the script tag into the html but I'm trying to achieve it dynamically.
What I have tried.
I have read a lot of questions on here about using javascript to append and prepend elements, I have tried mostly all of those methods. I have read topics titled Dynamically Inserting Script with Javascript, these have been no help.
My method seems to be correct, but I still get these Facebook errors.
My Markup.
<!DOCTYPE html>

       <title></title>

My Javascript:
var Facebook = {};

Facebook = {
        config: {
        APP_ID: 'APP_ID',
        APP_URL: 'APP_URL',
        CHANNEL_URL: 'CHANNEL_URL'
    }

};

var fbEl = document.createElement('div');
fbEl.id = 'fb-root';
document.body.insertBefore(fbEl,document.body.children[0]);

var fbScript = document.createElement('script');
fbScript.type = 'text/javascript';
fbScript.innerHTML = '';
fbScript.innerHTML += 'window.fbAsyncInit = function() {\n';
fbScript.innerHTML +=   'FB.init({\n';
fbScript.innerHTML +=       'appId      : '+Facebook.APP_ID+',\n';
fbScript.innerHTML +=       'channelUrl : '+Facebook.CHANNEL_URL+',\n';
fbScript.innerHTML +=       'status     : false,\n';
fbScript.innerHTML +=       'cookie     : true,\n';
fbScript.innerHTML +=       'xfbml      : false \n';
fbScript.innerHTML +=   '});\n';

fbScript.innerHTML +=   '};\n';

fbScript.innerHTML +=   '(function(d, debug){\n';
fbScript.innerHTML +=   'var js, id = "facebook-jssdk", ref = d.getElementsByTagName("script")[0];\n';
fbScript.innerHTML +=   'if (d.getElementById(id)) {return;}\n';
fbScript.innerHTML +=   'js = d.createElement("script"); js.id = id; js.async = true;\n';
fbScript.innerHTML +=   'js.src = "//connect.facebook.net/en_US/all" + (debug ? "/debug" : "") + ".js";\n';
fbScript.innerHTML +=   'ref.parentNode.insertBefore(js, ref);\n';
fbScript.innerHTML +=   '}(document, /*debug*/ false));';

document.body.insertBefore(fbScript,document.body.children[1]);

I do have the Facebook variables set correctly in my code this is for demonstrations sake.
I have read the Facebook Docs on this many times.
Is there a way to dynamically add the block for tje FB JS SKD using ONLY Javascript?

A: I'm not sure what's actually going wrong, but you have one more level of indirection than you need and that's making the whole thing too complicated. Why not something like:
var Facebook = {
   config:{ //etc
   }
};

window.fbAsyncInit = function() {
  FB.init(//etc
  )
};

(function(d, debug){
  var js, id = //etc - this injects the SDK script reference into the dom.
})(document, false);

A: The asynchronous JS code FB provide is a way to generate the FB SDK code only in javascript. Right now it seems like you try to code PHP style into JS...
If you need to load modules asynchronously, you should use a module loader (RequireJS or YepNope, etc).
The error message triggered may be because you added some parameter in the FB SDK URL (e.g. //connect.facebook.net/fr_CA/all.js#xfbml=1&appId=123456789"). If so, just remove everything after the hash #. Also, make sure you're not loading the SDK twice.

A: The method I was trying was causing a strange load order, the init code would load before the SDK was loaded causing strange errors.
A revision of the logic solved this. Not much different but now it works perfectly.
Facebook = {};

Facebook = {
    config: {
        APP_ID: 'APP_ID',
        APP_URL: 'APP_URL',
        CHANNEL_URL: 'CHANNEL_URL'
    }

};
Facebook.init = function() {
    var fbEl = document.createElement('div');
    fbEl.id = 'fb-root';
    document.body.insertBefore(fbEl,document.body.children[0]);
    window.fbAsyncInit = function() {
    // init the FB JS SDK
        FB.init({
            appId      : 'APP_ID', // App ID from the App Dashboard
            channelUrl : 'CHANNEL_URL', // Channel File for x-domain communication
            status     : true, // check the login status upon init?
            cookie     : true, // set sessions cookies to allow your server to access the session?
            xfbml      : true  // parse XFBML tags on this page?
        });

        // Additional initialization code such as adding Event Listeners goes here

    };

    // Load the SDK's source Asynchronously
    // Note that the debug version is being actively developed and might
    // contain some type checks that are overly strict.
    // Please report such bugs using the bugs tool.
    (function(d, debug){
        var js, id = 'facebook-jssdk', ref = d.getElementsByTagName('script')[0];
        if (d.getElementById(id)) {return;}
        js = d.createElement('script'); js.id = id; js.async = true;
        js.src = "//connect.facebook.net/en_US/all" + (debug ? "/debug" : "") + ".js";
        ref.parentNode.insertBefore(js, ref);
    }(document, /*debug*/ false));
};

Facebook.init();

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


text:
Will Ingram, lead vocalist and guitarist for genre-bending rock band Wieuca, performs a song during the opening set for the 23rd AthFest Music and Arts Festival on Friday night. (Photo/Julian Alexander)
Gabriella Audi | Culture Editor
Drummer Rob Smith paused between songs to thank the crowd for showing up to the festival.
"Thank y'all for being out here, we know it's hot," Smith said. "And we know that … a lot of y'all probably have jobs, too. We don't."
The genre-bending band started off the night with a mixture of punk-rock, psych-rock and a little bit of rapping tossed in the mix. Will Ingram, the lead vocalist and guitarist, switched between the guitar and the keyboard to mix up the music.
At one point, Ingram completely abandoned his guitar to perform what he announced as "the keyboard song," during which he alternated between rapping and playing the keyboard — a change from the heavy rock-n-roll that preceded the song.
After a few more head-bobbers, Wieuca paused as Ingram announced their next song that was "new new."
"This is about a man who is too woke for his trailer park community," Ingram said. "And he's concerned about his masculinity."
Ingram cracked open a can of beer to perform the fun but slower-paced song, which told the story of a man who didn't know how to deal with his wife being the main provider for the family.
Natalie Mies, 22, from Alpharetta, Georgia, is a friend of the band and heard its new song about masculinity when Ingram performed it during a solo set on the Georgia Theatre rooftop a few nights ago.
"He did that song, and then he brought it back for this show, which was cool," Mies said. "I hope that they keep it around, it's a fun song."
Cassidy Thornton, 21, from Warner Robins, Georgia, is also friends with band members and said that this performance brought a lot more energy than other performances she's seen. They usually play at night, so the 5 p.m. performance was different but fun to watch.
Wieuca set the stage for a long, music-and-art-filled weekend with energy and passion. Headliner Walden will close out day one of AthFest on Friday night at 9:15 p.m.
Middle school to Mainstage: Wieuca not afraid to create uncommon sound
Genre-bending rock band Wieuca might not exist today if singer and guitarist Will Ingram had not met drummer Rob Smith on the first day of sixth grade.
"I think I saw a Led Zeppelin logo on one of his folders, and we started talking, and we kind of started a band that day," Ingram said. "And we've just never stopped playing together."
Q&A: AthFest headliner AFTM talks new music, traveling for performances
Formed last year, AFTM consists of vocalist and guitarist Forrest Whitlark, guitarists Will MacLane and Kelly Bouchillon, bassist John MacClane, drummer Cam Corsino and keyboardist John Cherry. After performing at last year's Club Crawl, the band is headlining AthFest on the Southern Brewing Co. Mainstage on Saturday night. Before their performance, The Red & Black sat down with the group to discuss their new song, playing shows in other cities and what they're most looking forward to at AthFest.
Dawgs take on AthFest: UGA students to perform in the AthFest Club Crawl
Jester will be taking the Mainstage at the Georgia Theatre during the Club Crawl for its first performance at AthFest Music and Arts Festival, which also happens to be its last time playing together as a group.
Your ultimate guide for surviving and thriving at AthFest 2019
At this year's 23rd AthFest, there are over 50 performances during the day and dozens more during the nighttime Club Crawl. We compiled a few tips and tricks to help you prepare for the three-day festival.
High school bands take the spotlight at Friday's KidsFest
The 23rd annual AthFest Arts and Music Festival kicked off Friday, June 21. The KidsFest stage — located on the corner of Lumpkin and East Washington — welcomed four different bands, all of which brought different styles and characters to the forefront.
N1KI is one AthFest performance you don't want to miss
From the moment Niki Neiconi walks into the room, she's all smiles.
Neiconi has been to AthFest every year since she started school at the University of Georgia in 2016, but this weekend will be different. For the first time, Neiconi will be performing at AthFest under her stage name N1KI with her band.
Q&A: Taylor Chmura of Deep State talks new album, AthFest
Local band Deep State will be performing for the sixth time in the AthFest Club Crawl this weekend.
In preparation for the festival, Deep State's singer and guitarist Taylor Chmura talked to the Red & Black about the band's inspiration for its newest album, "THE PATH TO OBLIVION," and how it feels to be back at AthFest once again.
Club Crawl: Elijah Johnston debuts new music at Georgia Theatre during folk-rock show
Elijah Johnston spent a large portion of his Club Crawl performance playing new songs from the album he is currently recording. And it was a good thing he did.
The crowd seemed to love Johnston's performance, applauding after every song he played. The intimate space that the Georgia Theatre Bridge Stage provided allowed for a house show feel to the act.
Club Crawl: Linqua Franqa brings energy, crowd engagement to Georgia Theatre during AthFest
Local hip-hop artist Linqua Franqa hit the AthFest stage Friday night at the Georgia Theatre in front of an energized crowd. She's performed at the festival every year since 2016, making Friday night's show her fourth AthFest appearance.
Club Crawl: Jester jams out on Georgia Theatre Mainstage at farewell show
"We're called Jester," said Tommy Trautwein, vocalist and guitarist for Jester, as the band began its last show together in the AthFest Club Crawl on the Georgia Theatre Mainstage.
Pylon Reenactment Society thrills crowd with 80's rock on AthFest Mainstage
Playing in the heat of the afternoon on the last day of the AthFest Music & Arts Festival, Pylon Reenactment Society (PRS) thrilled the crowd with its quirky brand of 80's rock.
Wieuca
Rob Smith
23rd Athfest
Psych Rock

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


text:
The Cognitive Computing Era: Cognitive Computers
Written by Peter Fingar
Based on excerpts from the new book Cognitive Computing: A Brief Guide for Game Changers
"I think there is a world market for about five computers."
—remark attributed to Thomas J. Watson (Chairman of the Board of IBM), 1943.
Let's explore the world of computer hardware that is relevant to cognitive computing and tapping the vast amounts of Big Data being generated by the Internet of Everything. Neuromorphic chips attempt to model in silicon the massively parallel way the brain processes information as billions of neurons and trillions of synapses respond to sensory inputs such as visual and auditory stimuli. Those neurons also change how they connect with each other in response to changing images and sounds. That is the process we call learning. The chips, which incorporate brain-inspired models called neural networks, do the same.
Source: MIT Technology Review
Source: IBM
For the past half-century, most computers run on what's known as von Neumann architecture. In a von Neumann system, the processing of information and the storage of information are kept separate. Data travels to and from the processor and memory—but the computer can't process and store at the same time. By the nature of the architecture, it's a linear process, and ultimately leads to the von Neuman "bottleneck."
To see what's happening to break the von Neuman bottleneck, let's turn to Wikipedia for a quick introduction to cognitive computers. "A cognitive computer is a proposed computational device with a non-Von Neumann architecture that implements learning using Hebbian theory. Hebbian theory is a theory in neuroscience that proposes an explanation for the adaptation of neurons in the brain during the learning process. From the point of view of artificial neurons and artificial neural networks, Hebb's principle can be described as a method of determining how to alter the weights between model neurons. The weight between two neurons increases if the two neurons activate simultaneously—and reduces if they activate separately. Nodes that tend to be either both positive or both negative at the same time have strong positive weights, while those that tend to be opposite have strong negative weights.
"Instead of being programmable in a traditional sense within machine language or a higher level programming language such a device learns by inputting instances through an input device that are aggregated within a computational convolution or neural network architecture consisting of weights within a parallel memory system. An early example of such a device has come from the Darpa SyNAPSE program. SyNAPSE is a backronym standing for Systems of Neuromorphic Adaptive Plastic Scalable Electronics. The name alludes to synapses, the junctions between biological neurons. The program is being undertaken by HRL Laboratories (HRL), Hewlett-Packard, and IBM Research. Announced in 2008, DARPA's SyNAPSE program calls for developing electronic neuromorphic (brain-simulation) machine technology."
In August 2014, IBM announced TrueNorth, a brain-inspired computer architecture powered by an unprecedented 1 million neurons and 256 million synapses. It is the largest chip IBM has ever built at 5.4 billion transistors, and has an on-chip network of 4,096 neurosynaptic cores. Yet, it only consumes 70MW during real-time operation —orders of magnitude less energy than traditional chips.
IBM hopes to find ways to scale and shrink silicon chips to make them more efficient, and research new materials to use in making chips, such as carbon nanotubes, which are more stable than silicon and are also heat resistant and can provide faster connections.
Watch IBM Fellow, Dr. Dharmendra Modha on DARPA's SyNAPSE
Meanwhile, SpiNNaker (Spiking Neural Network Architecture) is a computer architecture designed by the Advanced Processor Technologies Research Group (APT) at the School of Computer Science, University of Manchester, led by Steve Furber, to simulate the human brain. It uses ARM processors in a massively parallel computing platform, based on a six-layer thalamocortical model developed by Eugene Izhikevich. SpiNNaker is being used as the Neuromorphic Computing Platform for the Human Brain Project.
And, The BrainScaleS project, a European consortium of 13 research groups is led by a team at Heidelberg University, Germany. The project aims to understand information processing in the brain at different scales ranging from individual neurons to whole functional brain areas. The research involves three approaches: (1) in vivo biological experimentation; (2) simulation on petascale supercomputers; (3) the construction of neuromorphic processors. The goal is to extract generic theoretical principles of brain function and to use this knowledge to build artificial cognitive systems. Each 20-cm-diameter silicon wafer in the system contains 384 chips, each of which implements 128,000 synapses and up to 512 spiking neurons. This gives a total of around 200,000 neurons and 49 million synapses per wafer. This allows the emulated neural networks to evolve tens-of-thousands times quicker than real time.
In 2014, EMOSHAPE (www.emoshape.com) announced the launch of a major technology breakthrough with an EPU (emotional processing unit).
Thus, cognitive computers in the future may contain CPUs, GPUs, NPUs, EPUs and Quantum Processing Units (QPUs)!
Author: Peter FingarWebsite: http://www.peterfingar.com/
Peter Fingar is an internationally recognized expert on business strategy, globalization and business process management. He's a practitioner with over forty years of hands-on experience at the intersection of business and technology. His seminal book, Business Process Management: The Third Wave is widely recognized as a key launch pad for the BPM trend in the 21st Century.
Peter has held management, technical and advisory positions with GTE Data Services, American Software and Computer Services, Saudi Aramco, EC Cubed, the Technical Resource Connection division of Perot Systems and IBM Global Services.
Also on BPM
How Artificial Intelligence Is Transforming Business Models
Investing In the Internet of Things (IoT) Security
Differentiating with Algorithms: A Case Study
Can Space Robots Save Humanity?
The Three R's of Intelligent Automation
Intelligent Automation: How Robots And AI Are Redefining The Rules
Puppy Dogs and AI: Training Automation for Relevance


text:
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Foreign professionals with a high level of expertise can apply for permanent residency in Canada using the Express Entry system. The Federal Skilled Worker Category, the Federal Skilled Trades Category, the Canadian Experience Class, and the Provincial Nominee Programs are among the application categories that Express Entry covers. Qualified overseas applicants must first declare their interest in applying under one of these categories by registering with Express Entry. Then they must wait to find out if they have been asked to apply for permanent residence.
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Personalized Document Checklists and necessary document templates
Guidance on essential documentation needs
Submitting an online form to construct a profile for an invitation
Guidance for IELTS
Templates for reference letters
Templates for Self Declarations
Any foreigner can visit Canada with a Tourist Visa. In addition, Canada offers two different types of Canada visas: Single entry and Multiple entries.
Foreign nationals are only permitted one entry into Canada on a single-entry visa. While with the multiple entry visa, a visitor may enter Canada for as long as the visa is in effect. Its possessor may enter and exit the country as often as they like. There is no requirement that you choose the type of tourist visa you want to apply for; all applicants are automatically considered for multiple-entry visas, and single-entry visas are only granted in exceptional cases.
Those who require a tourist visa to enter Canada can apply online, on paper, or in person at a visa application centre. When travelling as a family, every member of the group—including kids under 18—must submit a separate application. It is possible to submit all of the applications at once, though. Depending on their nation of citizenship, applicants for Canada visas might have to submit biometric data. Our Canadian immigration lawyers ensure that your application has the best possibility of being accepted.
Our cost strategy is the best and the most reasonable one in the market with exceptional services and guidance. Over the years, our hassle-free procedure has already helped many thousands of tourists.
The Canadian government has implemented Spousal Sponsorship Programs in an effort to support families in staying together. If you want to bring your spouse or partner to Canada permanently, this is a great choice.
A common-law partner is a person living with another person who may or may not be of the same sex as the common-law partner in a conjugal relationship (a marriage-like arrangement without being married). You must provide proof to establish a common-law connection, a conjugal relationship, or cohabitation.
A well-established programme in Canada that permits spouses and companions to come there is known as Spousal Sponsorship. The sponsor might be a Canadian citizen, a permanent resident, or a foreigner. The government granted this benefit in order to raise Canada's family immigration quota.
Parents and grandparents who are sponsored will be granted permanent resident status, enabling them to remain in Canada permanently, work or study, and have access to social services like medical care.
The two-step procedure of submitting a parental sponsorship application entails the Canadian requesting to be accepted as a sponsor.
Are you unsure whether you qualify to sponsor your spouse for a spouse visa? Worry not; your licenced immigration lawyers in Toronto atKurzfeld law firm are here to assist you. We have helped many families and assisted them through each step of the family Spousal Sponsorship process.
Fill out the form to schedule your expert consultation!
For people looking to work overseas, Canada, one of the most developed economies in the world, is a terrific choice. Business people, temporary workers, permanent workers, students, and other workers are all permitted to work in Canada with the Canadian Work Permit Visa. However, most people require a job offer to obtain a work permit. If you've been offered a job, your Canadian employer will likely need to apply for Employment Validation approval with Service Canada. To help you with immigration matters, contact our professional immigration lawyers, who handle all your immigration matters proficiently.
The Canadian government issues two work permits: open work permits and employer-specific permits. You can work for any employer with an open work permit. Candidates do not need to submit a Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) or an offer letter from an employer who has paid the compliance fee since this visa is not job-specific.
You can work for any employer in Canada with an open work visa, except for those engaged in escorting clients, providing sexual massages, or performing exotic dances or services that are illegal under Canadian labour laws.
You can apply for a Canadian Work Permit Visa and find comprehensive career options abroad with the help of Kurzfeld Law firm's Licensed Immigration Lawyers based in Toronto.
You can fill out the contact form or reach out to us directly by calling 647-249-7976 and get expert advice from our immigration lawyers on your work options in Canada.
To apply to the numerous fast-tracked business immigration programmes, the Canadian government is always looking for investors, business managers, and entrepreneurs of all sizes interested in settling in Canada and seeking new chances. With Canada's rapidly expanding and diversified economy, your knowledge and business acumen are priceless assets that can help you invest in your future.
A worldwide mobile workforce is crucial in changing legislation and norms that vary from nation to nation, but doing so can be difficult and time-consuming. Nevertheless, efficiency and agility in relocating top people might more than ever mean the difference between firms that flourish in the current global economy and those that flounder.
The lawyers and immigration experts team specialize in US and Canadian immigration law. However, we draw on information from multiple countries to simplify immigration regulations and assist you in navigating the procedures and laws that influence your ability to succeed in the global workforce.
We are uniquely qualified to offer insight into the tax and immigration risks, from short-term business travel to longer-term relocation, due to the extensive network of human resources, immigration, and tax experts established by a team of experienced immigration lawyers led by Ronen Kurfled at Kurzfeld law.
Universities in Canada attract students from all over the world to enrol in various courses. Each Canadian university is distinguished by its advanced curriculum, expansive campuses, and robust infrastructure. The Canadian immigration authorities can grant international students the right to study in Canada by issuing a study permit. With legitimate study permission, international students can enroll in courses in Canada. Enrolling in Designated Learning Institutions is another benefit for students who receive a study permit. A school given the go-ahead from a province or territorial government to accept international students is known as a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
Students who engage with immigration experts at Kurzfeld Law have a greater probability of being accepted to Canadian universities and are assisted in obtaining student visas for the country. In addition, we help students in choosing and applying to the appropriate college and programme that can act as a springboard for their global career.
You may rely on immigration consultants of the Kurzfeld Law firm to assist you in creating a thorough study permit application that anticipates and alleviates the visa officer's concerns. In addition, you can always contact us for a counselling session with our lawyer, and we can guide you on how to go about the visa application process at a reasonable immigration consultation fee.
When a candidate receives an invitation to apply to the Federal Skilled Trades category under the Express Entry system, Citizenship and Immigration Canada uses the following criteria to assess the application:
The candidate must meet the required levels in English or French for each language ability (speaking, reading, writing and listening).
The candidate must have at least two years of full-time work experience (or an equal amount of part-time work experience) in a skilled trade within the five years before you apply.
The candidate must meet the job requirements for that skilled trade as set out in the National Occupational Classification (NOC), except for needing a certificate of qualification
The candidate must have an offer of full-time employment for a total period of at least one year or a certificate of qualification in that skilled trade issued by a Canadian provincial or territorial authority.
Our office has extensive experience with the Federal Skilled Trades category and assisting clients with obtaining trade certificates from the relevant authority. Get in touch with us to know more.
Citizenship and Immigration Canada uses a point system to assess the eligibility of people who want to immigrate to Canada as skilled workers.
Applicants must obtain at least 67 points to qualify.
Points are awarded based on 6 factors:
Education (maximum 25 points)
Language ability in English and French (maximum 24 points)
Work experience (maximum 21 points)
Age (maximum 10 points)
Arranged employment (maximum 10 points)
Adaptability (Maximum 10 points)
People who obtain at least 67 points then need to meet certain admissibility criteria:
Medical Inadmissibility:
Applicants and their immediate and accompanying family members will have to take a medical examination before coming to Canada.
Only a designated medical practitioner can conduct the medical examinations. The examinations are only valid for 12 months.
Criminal/Security Inadmissibility:
Each applicant over the age of 18 must provide police clearances for all countries and states in which he or she has resided for more than 6 months. If you have criminal convictions or charges pending, contact us to find out whether you are criminally inadmissible.
Settlement Funds:
Applicants must prove they have sufficient funds in their possession prior to immigrating to Canada. You do not have to show that you have these funds if you have arranged employment in Canada.
You can fill out the contact form or reach out to us directly by calling 647-249-7976 and get our expert advice.
Why Choose Kurzfeld Law Firm?
Experienced Firm
Permanent Resident
Kurzfeld Law firm have experienced and qualified Canadian Immigration lawyers in Toronto. With our extensive knowledge and experience, we are able to devise stronger defence strategies for our clientele. The immigration process is elaborate and full of potential complications and obstacles. With the help of Kurzfeld law firm, you are maximizing your chance of success. Our crew will thoroughly investigate your case and devise the best strategy to make your application perfect. It also significantly improves your case when you have a reputed, proficient Canadian Immigration Lawyers Toronto to assist you. Our track record showcases that we provide our clients with an unmatched level of excellence in immigration legal services.
Our goal is to provide you peace of mind and the assurance that you are getting the best conceivable representation while dealing with immigration matters. Since we are multilingual, we can help clients from different nations and cultural backgrounds. Our professionals can communicate with you whether you speak English, French, Hebrew, or Tagalog. In addition, the Kurzfeld Law, Immigration Law Firm and its team of immigration lawyers in Toronto is ever-ready to assist anyone with all immigration-related cases.
Our cost you would incur at our immigration law firm is admiringly fair and reasonable, offering practical advice to resolve all problems. It is guaranteed value for money. By choosing our services, you are sparing yourself the stress and burden of the immigration process, as it can be overwhelming. If you want to work in Canada or are stuck with immigration applications, then it is crucial to take the expertise and guidance of an expert immigration lawyer.
Getting a permanent resident card is a suitable alternative for people who aspire to live permanently in Canada, but you may find it challenging to complete the process alone. Hence Kurzfeld Law Immigration Law firm with the help of its immigration lawyers in Toronto, helps you navigate the immigration process, by providing counsel and direction in an easy and understandable way.
Kurzfeld Law is a full-service law firm consisting of the best immigration lawyers in Toronto. We are a licensed firm with our main office in Toronto, Ontario, providing unmatched counsel for continuously fair immigration lawyer consultation fees and payment terms. We always aim to provide the best legal services to all of our clients. We make sure to give each and every one of our clients' individual attention. We keep all of our clients updated about the visa application process. We boast of being a law firm that its clients trust, and this is why we pride ourselves in our remarkable results. We make sure that the entire process is handled the right way for each and every client.
With over 20 years of experience, our firm has solidified its reputation by tenaciously upholding our clients' rights and employing knowledge gained from years of experience. From Express Entry to Business Applications and Enforcement, we have always been client-centred, dependable, and accessible to address all immigration cases.
Need help with immigration?
Contact the Kurzfeld Law office today for an in-office consultation.
With our 20 years of expertise, we have gained extensive knowledge and experience, and since then, we have been helping and assisting our clients as our family members. In addition, our reputation has facilitated us to have access to a vast array of resources that only some businesses are aware of. Regardless of how complex the case may be, we must have these resources, which are challenging to acquire, to offer individualized solutions to each client we represent.
Don't place your future in the wrong hands! Work with an immigration lawyer in Toronto from the Kurzfeld Law Office of Immigration. Contact us today!
Our Application Package
OUR APPLICATIONS TYPICALLY INCLUDE:
A legal submission letter outlining your qualifications for either temporary or permanent status. We carefully highlight the purpose of drawing the visa officer's attention to the most critical elements of your profile.
Setting together a comprehensive application package with all the requirements and data required for inspection by the authorities.
We monitor your application, including required communication with the authorities from when you submit your file until it is approved.
We stand you in good stead for the interview so you can ace it.
We will go over all the elements crucial for your arrival in Canada and ensure that you receive the visa when it is ready to be issued.
Deciding to immigrate or relocate is crucial. Over the years, we have aided countless candidates in recognizing their dream of immigration to Canada. However, the law is subject to rapid transition, so you must hire immigration lawyers devoted to protecting your interests and most importantly, comprehending how to construct solid assertions.
Ronen Kurzfeld
Ronen Kurzfeld is a highly reputable Canadian immigration lawyer, with over 20 years of experience. He graduated from Osgoode Hall Law School, Canada's oldest and largest law school, having completed the prestigious Immigration and Refugee Law program. He is a member in good standing of the Law Society of Ontario and the Canadian Bar Association's Citizenship and Immigration Section. He is also a founding member of CILA (Canadian Immigration Lawyers Association)
Mr. Kurzfeld's law firm has assisted over 10,000 people settle in Canada. He prides himself in providing excellent immigration advice and an unparalleled client services.
Ronen Kurzfeld has been invited by Service Canada to consult regarding the low skill program and has spoken to leading media outlets. He has presented about Canadian immigration in many countries.
Jason Ibanez
Jason Ibanez is an experienced lawyer with a combined 18-year experience in the legal field and who has worked extensively in Canadian immigration law for the last 10 years. He acquired his legal knowledge as he acquired his Bachelor of Laws from Silliman University in Philippines. he was later called to Integrated Bar of the Philippines and practiced law mainly focused on criminal law.
He later moved to Canada and pursued a progressive career in immigration law. He has experience working in the Ministry of the Attorney General of British Columbia (Supreme Court of British Columbia). He became a member of the Law Society of British Columbia on January 3, 2013, and has worked as an immigration lawyer since then. He is currently a member of the Law Society of Ontario since 2017 and holds membership at the Immigration Section of Canadian Bar Association.
Alina Zhang
Alina Zhang is an immigration lawyer. Alina graduated from University of British Columbia with a Master of Laws (LL.M) degree. Alina obtained a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) degree from Chongqing University, China. Alina also attended law school courses at National Chung Cheng University of Taiwan.
Alina worked for Access Pro Bono and a law firm in downtown Vancouver before she came to Toronto. She joined an immigration law firm as an articling student where she represented clients at IRB, CBSA and the Federal Court. Alina is a member of the Law Society of Ontario.
Alina has many years of experience in Canadian immigration law with the expertise in business immigration. She is experienced with work permit applications under Intra-company transferees/International Experience Class/Significant Benefits Categories, Labour Market Impact Assessment, Global Talent Stream applications, business visitors and many more.
Alina treats every client with care and diligence. She devotes herself into providing quality, efficient, and solution-oriented immigration legal services.
Tiffani Frederick
Tiffani Frederick is an American Canadian lawyer qualified to practice in the jurisdictions of Ontario and New York. She received her Bachelor of Laws from the University of Windsor and Juris Doctor from the University of Detroit Mercy. She formerly managed her own law practice for over 13 years representing clients in family, civil and immigration matters. She taught paralegal students at a private career college in Mississauga, Ontario.
Tiffani advises clients in all aspects of immigration law in Canada with an emphasis on matters before the Immigration and Refugee Board. Her immigration practice is focused on family sponsorships, temporary authorizations for study, visit or work, refugees, appeals, humanitarian and compassionate requests, inadmissibility, and enforcement matters.
Tiffani is a member of the Law Society of Ontario, the State Bar of New York, Canadian Immigration Lawyers Association, and the Canadian Bar Association.
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Why do people choose to immigrate to Canada?
Starting your Immigration Application
Q. Is it necessary to hire a lawyer for the immigration process?
The immigration process can be confusing for many people. Hence hiring a knowledgeable and qualified immigration lawyer in Toronto to represent you in court is always a superior choice. Only they can assist you in deciding which course of action is ideal for your unique case. It is always better to get the application right the first time rather than doing damage control which is what happens in most cases with people who apply by themselves without the help of a professional.
Q. How do I know I am choosing to hire a competent Canadian immigration lawyer?
The best practice is to ensure the lawyer you choose is an active member of the provincial bar association of the region or where you intend to relocate. It is also a good idea to check their years of experience in the field, get more details about their area of expertise and also to go through their client testimonials.
Q. Why do I need to hire a lawyer? Could I choose a less expensive option, like a paralegal?
Yes, but hiring an immigration lawyer is encouraged because they are supervised by provincial law societies and are subject to a code of ethics. If you need representation in court or throughout an appeals process at any stage of your immigration process, only an immigration lawyer can help you and not a paralegal. Also, an immigration lawyer will have far more experience to guide you through the process than a paralegal can.
Q. As hiring a lawyer is quite costly, which services are included in this price?
Depending on the lawyer in Toronto you hire, legal fee agreements may differ from firm to firm. An immigration law firm frequently manages the entire process until the applicant arrives in Canada. It also includes any additional fees related to the immigration process, such as those for phone calls, preparation, and the creation of application materials.
Q. My lawyer has helped me assess my eligibility for permanent residence immigration in Canada. Now, if I go ahead and apply without his or her help, could I be certain of a successful outcome?
There is never a certainty that your application will be accepted. Because the immigration authorities do not explicitly explain the procedure to be followed, many applicants submit their files inaccurately, which inevitably results in denial. To ensure a successful application, it is advised to choose a qualified immigration lawyer. It is always advisable to get the help of a professional at the start of your application process rather than trying to fix the damage done by a wrong application.
Q. If I decide to hire a lawyer, what will happen at the consultation?
You need individualized assistance to fully comprehend your alternatives because laws and procedures constantly change. Hence your needs, situation, and immigration objectives will be the first things we discuss to understand you better. After that, we go over every procedure step thoroughly to aid you. The goal of an immigration lawyer is to help you through the entire application process and to make it as easy and stress-free as possible.
Q. How to hire an immigration lawyer in Toronto?
The first step would be to do your research and find an immigration lawyer that is best suited for you. Go through their websites, look for client testimonials etc, before you decide which immigration lawyer is the best for you. Check out our blog, which has covered all the essential information, such as what questions to ask your lawyer, how much it will cost, and how to check the immigration lawyer's online presence to provide insights.
Q. Why should anyone consider moving to Canada on a permanent basis?
There are several reasons to consider moving to Canada, including the country's high standard of living, universal health care system, well-regarded public school system, multicultural society, and accommodating immigration laws. Canada also boasts a very low crime rate and is ranked as one of the safest places in the world. Canada also provides a fair opportunity for everyone irrespective of gender, finances, race, ethnicity etc...…
Q. What is the difference between a Permanent Resident and a Canadian Citizen?
A permanent resident is someone who has been given permanent resident status in Canada. All permanent residents are citizens of other countries. Canadian citizens have greater rights than permanent residents, as they are responsible for paying their taxes on time. In addition, a PR card holder cannot vote or possess a Canadian passport. Still, Canadian citizens are entitled to all these freedoms, including the ability to engage in political activity and even run for office.
Q. What are some of the basic rights that PR card holders have in Canada?
PR card holders are entitled to many advantages. They can reside, work, or pursue education anywhere in Canada. They are eligible for practically all social benefits, including government health insurance. In addition, they are protected under Canadian legislation, notably the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. After meeting the requirements, they are even qualified to apply for Canadian citizenship.
Q. Is Canada welcoming towards foreigners?
Generations of foreigners have received a hearty welcome in Canada. Canada is known all over the world for its hospitality and friendly environment. Canada is also a multicultural country known for its tolerance and open-mindedness. According to an official statement from the Canadian government, the country plans to welcome more new permanent residents in 2022 than 2020, which was around 340,000.
Q. Costs of hiring an immigration lawyer in Toronto?
It is always best to hire a professional to help you with your application process. Depending on several variables, including the lawyer's experience and the firm's size, the costs may vary from one lawyer to another. A qualified lawyer will assist you and is well worth the money because they have a lot of analytical and practical knowledge and can help make your application smooth and hassle-free.
Q. Benefits of Hiring an Immigration Lawyer
Immigration lawyers can help with various problems related to immigration, such as visa, citizenship applications etc…There are numerous programmes for immigration, each of which has over a hundred variations. Therefore it is essential to understand them and how to apply for them. Immigration Lawyer helps you with the application process and identifies the policies and procedures that may be advantageous for you.
Q. How should I go about starting my Canadian immigration process?
Fill up the application form and submit the other supporting documents to begin the immigration process. The next step would be to pay the fees and submit the complete application. There is a chance that immigration officers will interview you. Such circumstances necessitate the assistance of an expert lawyer who can help you assess the issue and choose your best course of action. It is always recommended to get a professional opinion before starting the immigration process.
Q. How long does the process of immigration take in general?
The immigration process is a time taking process. Your application process varies from person to person and from case to case. Immigration applications are sometimes processed quickly by immigration officials, or sometimes it can take up to 14 months. Therefore, having an immigration attorney by your side is a brilliant idea since they can advise you on what to anticipate and, if feasible, show you how to prevent delays.
Q. What is a Permanent Residence card?
It is a document or a card that enables an individual who is not a citizen of Canada but has been granted permanent resident status by the government to be a permanent resident and to live permanently in Canada. It also possesses the location information, photo identity, fingerprint etc… of the cardholder.
Q. Will the Canadian immigration authorities or embassy assist me in preparing my application and ensure everything is correct before I send in my application?
No, the Canadian immigration authorities or embassy will not help you in preparing your application. The Canadian government does not offer this kind of specialized assistance to anyone. The authorities' roles include enforcing immigration laws, adjudicating immigration petitions, and issuing visas and other relevant paperwork. Only a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant or a Toronto immigration lawyer specializing in these issues can assist you.
Q. What are my chances of moving to Canada if I have been convicted of a crime in the past?
This depends on several factors, such as the severity of the offence, time, and how you have behaved since then plays a very vital role. Considering the following criteria, you might still be permitted to visit Canada: Substantiate your rehabilitation Confirm your rehabilitation application and approval Had a temporary residency visa or received a sanctioned record suspension
Q. What is the Provincial Nomination Program?
Under this programme, foreign individuals may be nominated by Canadian provinces and territories for immigration to the country based on their potential skills, educational qualifications, and job experience that will help to contribute to the economic progress of the designated province. The PNP also takes into consideration if the applicant wants to live in that particular province and if they want to become a permanent resident of Canada. In addition, they must meet the necessary qualifications regarding training, education, and job experience. Provinces and territories may focus on students, business people, skilled workers, semi-skilled workers etc…
Q. Do all provinces of Canada have the Provincial Nominee Program?
Yes, all provinces of Canada have their own provincial nominee program except for Quebec. All Canadian provinces are part of the Provincial Nominee programme. Quebec, which has the authority to select candidates independently, is the only province in the country exempt from having to participate in the Provincial Nominee Program.
Q. What are the different programs that allow a foreign national to immigrate to Canada permanently?
There are a number of programs to choose from which allows foreign nationals to immigrate to Canada permanently. A foreigner can apply for Express Entry, Quebec-selected skilled worker, Start-up visa, Investors and self-employed, Provincial Nominee Program, Family sponsorship, Atlantic Immigration Pilot, Caregiver Programs and Refugee to immigrate to Canada permanently.
Highly professional in their services and will guide you properly throughout the immigration process. The entire team offers dedicated quality from end to end. Especially Jason Ibanez who was always available to answer my questions and kept me updated with my PR application status. The whole team can be relied upon and Trusted 100%. The entire team gives a Professional touch and you are so sure of Success. The Services that they offer are a Good Value for Money. I still remember my first meeting with Ronen, the way he guided me, didn't pressure me at all to choose them as my lawyer was amazing. I highly recommend Ronen Kurzfeld Immigration to everyone who is looking for a lawyers in Toronto.
Sobia Mehmood
I did my graduation from USA and wanted to do my masters in Canada for better job opportunities so I needed a student visa. One of my friends was already studying here and he recommended Ronen Kurzfeld to me. I had my doubts initially but all of them were gone as soon as I first chatted with Ronen. His attorneys were always there to guide me and made me feel comfortable and secure. A great experience overall
Julio Clevenger
I had a very pleasant experience working with Ronen Kurzfeld and his team. They were very patient in explaining the whole immigration process to us. My English was not very good so they were also so kind to guide me in Spanish. It really warmed my heart. Would recommend his law firm to everyone especially if you are a stranger to the country. With their help, the journey to a new country may not be as overwhelming as it seems.
Jayme Foltin
I am Extremely satisfied with The Law Office of Ronen Kurzfeld. I was always given best guidance by Ronen. Jason at Ronen office is also very knowledgeable. It was completely smooth and hassle-free process for me. Great work done by a great team. They always made me feel comfortable by answering all my questions. I wish I could give more than 5 stars. Thank you.
R S
My husband was already working in Canada, I wanted to join him there. We wanted to be really careful in our choices because earlier my husband had a horrible experience with an immigration law firm when he was trying to move. We didn't want to repeat the same mistake again, so some of my husband's colleagues and friends recommended the Ronen Kurzfeld Immigration Law firm to us. We immediately went to have a chat with him and were very happy at the end of the meeting. Fortunately, the whole process went smoothly and I was able to join my husband in Canada without any trouble. Would totally recommend him to everybody.
Danilo Shelby
If you are looking for an immigration lawyer who can handle your case and get the best possible outcome then please look no further! Ronen Kurzfeld and his team are truly amazing and did some wonderful work in our case. His experience and knowledge really show when he is guiding you. His team was also very attentive and provided us with their suggestions and assistance whenever we needed it. Overall, it was an amazing experience, and would recommend him to everyone.
Thaomy Tran
We processed our mother's Humanitarian and Compassionate PR application through Ronen's Law office. From the time we initiated the process, Ronen and his associates (Jason - the lawyer who handled our case), were very prompt in responding, guiding and clarifying anything along the way of the application. The application was successful. The most prominent aspect is the clear communication, not over promising or giving false hope and promptness in responding to our queries were exceptional. We have been recommending Ronen to anyone who ever was looking for an Immigration lawyer so far due to these traits.
Prasanna Shanmugarajah
I am really happy with the service we obtained and wouldn't hesitate to recommend Ronen Kurzfeld Immigration Lawyer to anyone thinking of making the same decision. It was amazing moment when one of his staff named Russel called to inform that we had been granted our visa. Russel and Joan responded promptly and remained positive, polite and professional from the outset. To rest of the team, Jonalyn, Diana and Raquel thank you for the support. I will be back to use your service again for the next stage of my visa. Looking forward to work with you again.
Jhennifer Menaling
Ronen and his team are certainly very knowledgeable and have experience in handling every type of case related to immigration services. I had a pleasant experience working with them. Their whole team is very reliable and kind and handled our case with utmost professionalism. I would recommend them to everyone who is looking for a visa to visit Canada.
Palmer Rolling
I had to move to Canada as soon as possible to join a company and I was really stressed about how it is going to happen. Luckily someone recommended Ronen and his team to me and these guys really helped me expedite the whole process and got me my visa at the earliest. Totally satisfied with them. Amazing work by Ronen and his team.
Logan Hall
Very satisfied with Ronen and his staff they really did great in giving proper advice in my sponsorship application..I got approved in 11 months ..Thanks Guys ..Joan is also a very nice person ..I love her...😍
Sandy Desir
I had the best experience with the Ronen Kurzfeld Law firm. I was looking for a firm that can enlighten me about the immigration process and guide me through every step because I was really intimidated by the whole thing. The lawyers were very approachable and responsive and I was able to get my concerns resolved right away. Would definitely recommend it.
Willium Watson


WheelTurnerHawaii.com: Big Island Flow Fest Raw Run.
Big Island Flow Fest Raw Run from Kaimana Pinto on Vimeo.
Follow WheelTurnerHawaii ambassador Kaimana Pinto down the race course that the Hawaii Winter Outlaw Series event 2 was held on. High speeds, sweepers and Hawaiian Vibes.


text:
Startup Forum
RAISE fosters startup growth and scale-up within and across Europe
Start-ups and its Scale-up
RAISE 2nd Co-Creation Workshop Report
More than 50 people gathered at our Brussels' workshop
In the process of avoiding the existing lack of integration between different support services and action plans that creates gaps in start-up support at the EU level, the RAISE consortium organised its first in a series of exchange of experience open sessions to promote discussion on future initiatives to building a unique agenda for an interconnected EU start-up space with the focus on the New European Innovation Agenda.
What are the most efficient tool and policy instruments to support start-ups to scale up?
Participants gathered at SERN premises in Brussels and online found out more on the New European Innovation Agenda that aims to position Europe at the forefront of the new wave of deep tech innovation and start-ups, and a selection of funding opportunities in the European Innovation Ecosystem 2023-2024.
Find out more about the European Innovation Agenda below.
Who participated at the workshop?
Stakeholders at regional, national, and EU level covering the lifecycle of start-ups growth, R&I programmers and policymakers, capacity building programmes managers and technicians, private investment or representatives of access to public funding organizations gathered in person and in online session to find points of interaction and advancement around the New European Innovation Agenda, its novelties for scale-ups supporting organizations and the resulting opportunities for collaboration of the first steps of its implementation.
9.30 – 09.45 Welcome and Introduction by SERN
Our colleague from The Foundation FUNDECYT Science and Technology Park of Extremadura, Anto Recio Cuesta (anto.recio@fundecyt-pctex.es) presented the RAISE project.
9.45 – 10.30 The New European Innovation Agenda
The New European Innovation Agenda, adopted on 5 July 2022, aims to position Europe at the forefront of the new wave of deep tech innovation and start-ups. It will help Europe to develop new technologies to address the most pressing societal challenges and to bring them to the market. Europe wants to be the place where the best talents work hand in hand with the best companies and where deep tech innovation thrives and creates breakthrough innovative solutions across the continent.
Jekaterina Novikova, DG RTD
Viorel Peca, HoU Transition and Business Acceleration Services, European Innovation Council
11.00 – 12.15 How to Support the Scale-up of Start-ups
Regional Development Agencies, Public authorities, SMEs, and start-ups discussed the most efficient tool and policy instrument to support start-ups to scale-up.
Miroslav Macan, Zagorje Development Agency
Stephane Ruiz, IDEA Agency
Greta Camilleri, Malta Enterprise
Lorenzo Valeriani, META-Group
12.15 – 12.45 Networking Session
Networking Session among the participants around a selection of funding opportunities in the European Innovation Ecosystem 2023-2024 Work Programme.
anto.recio@fundecyt-pctex.es
Anto Recio Cuesta, RAISE Project Consortium, Partner FUNDECYT-PCTEX Project Manager
RAISE Project
Social Innovation Manager FUNDECYT-PCTEX, with extensive experience in international collaborative development projects and alternative financing for innovative projects. He has more than 15 years of experience in different advisory and training actions in the innovative business fabric as well as in processes of financing social projects. He is a collaborator of the crowdfunding platform Goteo.
Within his project role, Anto responsibilities are related to the design of the methodological framework for the trainings and incubation process, facilitating training of the trainers' process, developing tasks and activities in collaboration with both the FUNDECYT-PCTEX team and the whole consortium enabling the overall implementation of the strategic plan and holistic project execution.
Anto has spent several years working in international social/collaborative development projects, exploring the relationship between technology and society and its pragmatic application from a humanistic point of view. Interested in the sharing of knowledge as a new way of cultural management and as a new horizon to explore, Anto is convinced that the power of social entrepreneurship can improve the World.
Jekaterina.NOVIKOVA@ec.europa.eu
Talk Title: New European Agenda
Jekaterina Novikova is the Innovation Policy Coordinator at the European Commission, Directorate General for Research and Innovation. The EU official since 2005, she spent last five years in the management positions implementing the FP-7 and Horizon 2020 research projects. Being awarded the EU fellowship in 2018, she spent academic year 2018-2019 in the US, at the University of California, Berkeley where she conducted a research on how the US government, universities and industry facilitate the transition of the research results to market. Jekaterina is Certified Chartered Accountant and holds MA in European Affairs from Lund University, Sweden. She is fluent in Russian, Latvian, English and French.
Viorel.PECA@ec.europa.eu
Viorel Peca, Head of Unit of Transition and Business Acceleration Services - European Innovation Council
Viorel Peca is Head of Unit of Transition and Business Acceleration Services of the EIC (European Innovation Council). His unit mission is to bring EIC supported innovations & technologies to the market while establishing Europe as innovation leader contributing to the economic growth and wellbeing of all Europeans.
Previously he was HoU of Future and Emerging Technologies Unit within DG Connect and led the Innovation unit between 2012 and 2016. He joined DG Connect in 2011 as Head of Unit for Networked Electronic Media.
After joining the European Commission in 2008, he was Project Manager and Chief Business Analyst for the eFP7 team of DG DIGIT.
Viorel started his career in R&D at Alcatel Romania in 1996, and then moved to Belgium in 2000 where he worked for several Alcatel products spanning all the layers of the network. Later he worked as feature development team leader, then as IPTV project manager.
Viorel holds an MSc in electronics and communications from University "Politehnica" from Timisoara, Romania and has a Master in Industrial Management from Katholieke Universiteit Leuven (KUL), a postgraduate diploma in Applied Informatics from Vrije Universiteit Brussels (VUB) and a Certificate in Leadership and Management, Hertie School of Governance, Berlin
sruiz@agenciaidea.es
Stéphane Ruiz-Coupeau, Technical Advisor at Agency of Innovation and Development of Andalusia
Talk Title: How to Support the Scale-up of Start-ups
Stéphane Ruiz-Coupeau helps ambitious firms to grow internationally, innovate and secure finance. He is a multi-lingual engineer with more than 18 years of experience in international management, constantly looking for new challenges and collaborations. He co-leads the Enterprise Europe Network activities in his region (Andalucia) and actively participates as co-chair of 2 thematic groups: scale-ups and access to finance. Stéphane also leads a program targeting potential scale-ups in Andalucia. He enjoys lecturing International Business and collaborating with several business schools. He is a Certified Professor at EOI Business School and CECO Centre of Studies for Economy and Trade.
miroslav@poduzetnickicentar-kzz.hr
Miroslav Macan's experience comes from tackling with preparation and management of public and private investment projects as well as introducing strategic planning approach to regional policy level in Krapina Zagorje County, Croatia. As a team member of Zagorje Development Agency since 2007, Helena participated in bringing entrepreneurial investment to the County as a certified member of Croatian Investor Friendly Region program and supported entrepreneurs in preparation and implementation of EU funded projects.
greta.camilleri@maltaenterprise.com
Greta Camilleri, Research & Policy Coordinator at Malta Enterprise
Greta Camilleri is a Research & Policy Coordinator at Malta Enterprise (ME), Malta's national corporation in charge of economic and social development with more than 10 years of experience. She coordinates research initiatives to strengthen the evidence base for ME's strategic priorities, collaborates with internal and external stakeholders to enhance the translation of research into policy and other practices, and produces briefs on specific developments and changes being proposed by other European countries, namely with respect to business operations, taxes, and start-up regulations. Greta holds an MA in European Studies from the University of Malta.
l.valeriani@meta-group.com
Lorenzo Valeriani, Meta Group Venture Capital | R&D results exploitation | Start-up coach | Lean Canvas | Entrepreneurship | Mentoring |
Lorenzo Valeriani is an experienced advisor, coach, and business analyst of META Group with proven experience in the management of venture capital financial instruments. His expertise is focused in entrepreneurial themes, business and territory innovation policies, economic development policies and European research and innovation projects and programs. Lorenzo's main activity regards the support to projects regarding innovation and regional policies, innovation ecosystems and support actions to foster knowledge-intensive entrepreneurship.
Mr. Valeriani has developed, thanks to his studies, a high economic-financial background and for 4 years he has gained experience on management and monitoring of invested startup and scaleup firms, fundraising, entrepreneurial issues, innovation policies of companies and territory, economic development policies and European research and innovation projects and programmes.
He is currently project manager of InvestHorizon 2, a European project that supports scale-up in the fundraising and internationalisation process.
He has extensive background in quantitative finance and holds a Master Degree in Financial Intermediaries – Quantitative Finance from the University "Tor Vergata" (Rome).
vilar_jos@ivace.gva.es
José Vilar Gonzálbez, IVACE, Head of EU Programmes Service. Enterprise Europe Network Consortium Coordinator. Chair of the EEN Start-up & Scale-up Thematic Group.
He is a graduate in Economics and Business Studies by the University of Valencia with a comprehensive experience, first as a controller (2 Yrs) and later (10 Yrs) as a financial manager of 2 multinational corporations: Vicent Group, a publishing and printing holding honoured with The Guttemberg Award, and INICIAS-AHT Group, a global engineering and environmental corporation based in Germany. Experienced Senior analyst (14 Yrs) at IVF, managing loan portfolios and funding schemes for SMEs vs entrepreneurs. Since February 2016 working for IVACE at the European Projects Unit and responsible of Horizon Europe Monitoring Commission on behalf of the Regional Government. In the period 2014-2015 I had a seat, by appointmente of the European Comision, in The Committee on "Innovation in SMEs and Access to Risk Finance" for the Specific Programme Implementing Horizon 2020.
cristina.gallardo@fundecyt-pctex.es
Cristina Gallardo Rey, RAISE Project Consortium, Partner FUNDECYT-PCTEX Project Manager, R&D&I Internationalization
Talk Title: Networking Session among the participants around a selection of funding opportunities in the European Innovation Ecosystem 2023-2024 Work Programme
Cristina Gallardo Rey is a Project Manager, International Research and Innovation Promotion at FUNDECYT-PCTEX.
RAISE fosters start-up growth and scale-up across Europe
The RAISE project is an EU-funded project implemented by a five-organisations consortium led by Startup Europe Regions Network (SERN) along with The European Business Angels Network (EBAN), the European Association of Development Agencies (EURADA), the Foundation FUNDECYT Scientific and Technological Park of Extremadura (FUNDECYT-PCTEX), and International Consortium of Research Staff Associations (ICoRSA).
The main goal of RAISE is to develop a new and sustainable integrated support framework to foster start-up growth and scale-up across Europe in all its dimensions, from initial funding, research support to public incentives and internationalisation. This will result in promoting competitive business models, unconventional collaborations and solutions from all in Europe, and contributing to the establishment of a true EU startup ecosystem, not based on a single city or region, but linking all of them together.
COMPETITIVE BUSINESS MODELS
COLLABORATIONS AND SOLUTIONS
RAISE will establish a joint agenda to build an effective collaboration amongst key innovation ecosystem players at the regional, national, and EU level. All of them play a crucial role in the start-ups' growth lifecycle through upskilling initiatives, research and innovation (R&I) programmes and policies, capacity building, private investment, or access to public funding.
Project Consortium
All five organisations implementing the RAISE project are active at the European level spanning the whole spectrum of startup support and growth: access to public funding, business angels, research & innovation.
Regions' Alliances for Interconnected Startup Ecosystems
The RAISE project is financed by European Union through the GRANT AGREEMENT concluded with the European Innovation Council and SMEs Executive Agency (EISMEA), under the powers delegated by the European Commission. Project number: 101070749
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or European Innovation Council and SMEs Executive Agency (EISMEA). Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them. Privacy Policy can be read here.
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text:
import asyncio
from unittest.mock import call
from collections import defaultdict
from typing import Dict, Set

from asynctest.mock import MagicMock, CoroutineMock
import pytest

from google.cloud.pubsublite.internal.wire.assigner import Assigner
from google.cloud.pubsublite.internal.wire.assigner_impl import AssignerImpl
from google.cloud.pubsublite.internal.wire.connection import (
    Connection,
    ConnectionFactory,
)
from google.api_core.exceptions import InternalServerError

from google.cloud.pubsublite.types import Partition
from google.cloud.pubsublite_v1.types.subscriber import (
    PartitionAssignmentRequest,
    InitialPartitionAssignmentRequest,
    PartitionAssignment,
    PartitionAssignmentAck,
)
from google.cloud.pubsublite.testing.test_utils import make_queue_waiter
from google.cloud.pubsublite.internal.wire.retrying_connection import _MIN_BACKOFF_SECS

# All test coroutines will be treated as marked.
pytestmark = pytest.mark.asyncio

@pytest.fixture()
def default_connection():
    conn = MagicMock(spec=Connection)
    conn.__aenter__.return_value = conn
    return conn

@pytest.fixture()
def connection_factory(default_connection):
    factory = MagicMock(spec=ConnectionFactory)
    factory.new.return_value = default_connection
    return factory

@pytest.fixture()
def initial_request():
    return PartitionAssignmentRequest(
        initial=InitialPartitionAssignmentRequest(subscription="mysub")
    )

class QueuePair:
    called: asyncio.Queue
    results: asyncio.Queue

    def __init__(self):
        self.called = asyncio.Queue()
        self.results = asyncio.Queue()

@pytest.fixture
def sleep_queues() -> Dict[float, QueuePair]:
    return defaultdict(QueuePair)

@pytest.fixture
def asyncio_sleep(monkeypatch, sleep_queues):
    """Requests.get() mocked to return {'mock_key':'mock_response'}."""
    mock = CoroutineMock()
    monkeypatch.setattr(asyncio, "sleep", mock)

    async def sleeper(delay: float):
        await make_queue_waiter(
            sleep_queues[delay].called, sleep_queues[delay].results
        )(delay)

    mock.side_effect = sleeper
    return mock

@pytest.fixture()
def assigner(connection_factory, initial_request):
    return AssignerImpl(initial_request.initial, connection_factory)

def as_response(partitions: Set[Partition]):
    req = PartitionAssignment()
    req.partitions = [partition.value for partition in partitions]
    return req

def ack_request():
    return PartitionAssignmentRequest(ack=PartitionAssignmentAck())

async def test_basic_assign(assigner: Assigner, default_connection, initial_request):
    write_called_queue = asyncio.Queue()
    write_result_queue = asyncio.Queue()
    default_connection.write.side_effect = make_queue_waiter(
        write_called_queue, write_result_queue
    )
    read_called_queue = asyncio.Queue()
    read_result_queue = asyncio.Queue()
    default_connection.read.side_effect = make_queue_waiter(
        read_called_queue, read_result_queue
    )
    write_result_queue.put_nowait(None)
    async with assigner:
        # Set up connection
        await write_called_queue.get()
        await read_called_queue.get()
        default_connection.write.assert_has_calls([call(initial_request)])

        # Wait for the first assignment
        assign_fut1 = asyncio.ensure_future(assigner.get_assignment())
        assert not assign_fut1.done()

        partitions = {Partition(2), Partition(7)}

        # Send the first assignment.
        await read_result_queue.put(as_response(partitions=partitions))
        assert (await assign_fut1) == partitions

        # Get the next assignment: should send an ack on the stream
        assign_fut2 = asyncio.ensure_future(assigner.get_assignment())
        await write_called_queue.get()
        await write_result_queue.put(None)
        default_connection.write.assert_has_calls(
            [call(initial_request), call(ack_request())]
        )

        partitions = {Partition(5)}

        # Send the second assignment.
        await read_called_queue.get()
        await read_result_queue.put(as_response(partitions=partitions))
        assert (await assign_fut2) == partitions

async def test_restart(
    assigner: Assigner,
    default_connection,
    connection_factory,
    initial_request,
    asyncio_sleep,
    sleep_queues,
):
    write_called_queue = asyncio.Queue()
    write_result_queue = asyncio.Queue()
    default_connection.write.side_effect = make_queue_waiter(
        write_called_queue, write_result_queue
    )
    read_called_queue = asyncio.Queue()
    read_result_queue = asyncio.Queue()
    default_connection.read.side_effect = make_queue_waiter(
        read_called_queue, read_result_queue
    )
    write_result_queue.put_nowait(None)
    async with assigner:
        # Set up connection
        await write_called_queue.get()
        await read_called_queue.get()
        default_connection.write.assert_has_calls([call(initial_request)])

        # Wait for the first assignment
        assign_fut1 = asyncio.ensure_future(assigner.get_assignment())
        assert not assign_fut1.done()

        partitions = {Partition(2), Partition(7)}

        # Send the first assignment.
        await read_result_queue.put(as_response(partitions=partitions))
        await read_called_queue.get()
        assert (await assign_fut1) == partitions

        # Get the next assignment: should attempt to send an ack on the stream
        assign_fut2 = asyncio.ensure_future(assigner.get_assignment())
        await write_called_queue.get()
        default_connection.write.assert_has_calls(
            [call(initial_request), call(ack_request())]
        )

        # Set up the next connection
        conn2 = MagicMock(spec=Connection)
        conn2.__aenter__.return_value = conn2
        connection_factory.new.return_value = conn2
        write_called_queue_2 = asyncio.Queue()
        write_result_queue_2 = asyncio.Queue()
        conn2.write.side_effect = make_queue_waiter(
            write_called_queue_2, write_result_queue_2
        )
        read_called_queue_2 = asyncio.Queue()
        read_result_queue_2 = asyncio.Queue()
        conn2.read.side_effect = make_queue_waiter(
            read_called_queue_2, read_result_queue_2
        )

        # Fail the connection by failing the write call.
        await write_result_queue.put(InternalServerError("failed"))
        await sleep_queues[_MIN_BACKOFF_SECS].called.get()
        await sleep_queues[_MIN_BACKOFF_SECS].results.put(None)

        # Reinitialize
        await write_called_queue_2.get()
        write_result_queue_2.put_nowait(None)
        conn2.write.assert_has_calls([call(initial_request)])

        partitions = {Partition(5)}

        # Send the second assignment on the new connection.
        await read_called_queue_2.get()
        await read_result_queue_2.put(as_response(partitions=partitions))
        assert (await assign_fut2) == partitions
        # No ack call ever made.
        conn2.write.assert_has_calls([call(initial_request)])

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


A customer selects marijuana strains at the 3-D Denver Discrete Dispensary in Denver, Colorado. Photograph: Getty Images.
There are now more cannabis shops in Colorado than there are branches of Starbucks. Since 1 January, it has been legal to sell cannabis for recreational use on licensed premises, three years after the drug was cleared for medical use. The recreational stores sprang up and 37 were granted licences to begin trading on New Year's Day.
With the help of the Cannabis Map of Colorado, I find my way to the Native Roots Apothecary dispensary on the eighth floor of a soulless building in downtown Denver. The shop looks like a cross between a GP's waiting room and a homoeopathic clinic. It is bare and painted white, apart from a coffee machine decorated in the Rastafarian colours.
Before being allowed a doctor's prescription, patients have to apply to the state for a certificate of eligibility that costs between $60 and $100. On prescription, it is possible to buy up to two ounces a day per person. It costs between $150 and $400 an ounce, including tax at 8.5 per cent.
The price of weed when not buying on prescription can range between $400 and $500 an ounce, and all you need to make your purchase is a piece of ID to prove you are over 21.
Despite decriminalisation, there is still an illegal market for weed which sells the drug at half the price of legal retailers. According to one police officer I spoke to, the legislation could, paradoxically, lead to an increase in the involvement of criminal drug dealers. He believes the normalisation of weed-smoking will increase overall demand and that users will soon turn to cheaper black-market suppliers.
But the new law has found support in unexpected places. Steven Foster, the senior rabbi at Temple Emanuel in Denver, endorsed the law, arguing that poor and black Americans are disproportionately targeted by drugs law enforcement. This is also one of the arguments taken up by the state chapter of the United Food and Commercial Workers trade union, one of the largest in the United States.
The legal cannabis market is tightly governed. Until October this year, recreational marijuana stores have to grow almost all the cannabis they sell, a policy that will shortly be reviewed. Retailers can't advertise in places where children might see it and must sell their product in opaque, child-resistant packages. They will be inspected regularly by the Colorado Marijuana Enforcement Division and surveillance cameras will track sales to identify each customer.
In the hour I spend at the LoDo Wellness Centre, another cannabis retailer in central Denver, at least 300 people come through the door, ranging from young men in pairs to older women on their own. There are carloads of tourists from as far away as New Jersey, California and Ohio, some of whom ask Elizabeth, the receptionist, which weed-friendly hotels she considers the best value. Elizabeth checks each customer's ID and then directs the client either to the dispensing room or to the commercial storeroom.
I speak to Al (not his real name) who is a regular cannabis smoker. Al tells me that he has visited the store out of curiosity but will continue to buy his usual stash off his dealer. "It is much cheaper, quicker and easier." Two grammes from the store, he tells me, costs him $37, "more than twice as much as I usually pay".
Washington is preparing to liberalise its cannabis laws this year to bring it up to speed with Colorado, and activists in several other states are preparing to follow the Coloradan model. But federal organisations are trying to reverse the law.
Many Colorado businesses are cash-only, as the banks, controlled by the federal government, are refusing to open accounts for cannabis retailers. This makes them a target for organised crime, and the Internal Revenue Service is unhappy that such affluent businesses have no clear money trail.
In Colorado, however, many argue that the new laws are helping the state out of a bad recession. The Tax Foundation, a think tank, estimates that the state will raise almost $70m in new taxes this year.
Weed lovers and libertarians are united in their support for Colorado's approach, but is there enough attention being paid to the lows as well as the highs of legalisation? One thing is certain: with more than half of all Americans supporting legal pot, this issue is unlikely to disappear in a puff of smoke.
› Behind the gun-slinging sceptic act, Cameron is a good European. Will he dare show it in public?


FOREX Bank, the Nordic region's market leader in travel money and easy-to-use banking services, has chosen Tieto's automated platform to replace its origination and credit scoring platform for consumer loans. The end-to-end solution helps the bank improve its lending processes, reducing the usual lead time by more than 50% and with record lead times of just minutes.
Customers expect fast and easy-to-use services that are no more than a click away. FOREX Bank faced the dual challenges of increased customer demands, and costly paper-based and partly manual processes within its loan management business.
Tieto's origination platform completely digitalized FOREX Bank's lending process. For the end user, this translates into faster and easier services. It also significantly reduces the lead time between a customer applying for a loan and having it disbursed. For the bank, the platform speeds up its former partly manual lending management processes, thereby generating cost- and time-savings.
"Not only are our customers profiting from having their lending applications processed faster. It also means that it is easier and more efficient for our coworkers to grant these loans, which is a win-win situation. This paves us a more competitive path in the market place", says Bo Lagergren, FOREX Bank's CEO.
Tieto's lending platform was successfully implemented in 2018. The platform gives the bank strong analytical capabilities to improve credit scoring and accuracy, i.e. giving the right offer to the customer in a competitive market.
"The use of Tieto's lending platform gives FOREX Bank the possibility to balance credit risk and improve the end customer journey through automation, digitization and process improvements. The platform drastically improves the level of automation and enables the bank's coworkers to focus on the customer dialogue and experience instead of the manual handling of documents", says Pedram Tadayon, VP Financial Services at Tieto.
Family owned FOREX Bank AB (publ) has since the start in 1965 been the Nordic market leader in travel money. In 2003, FOREX Bank received its bank license and extended the customer offering with easy-to-use banking services such as deposits, lending, cash services and debit and credit cards. Find FOREX Bank at 100 central locations throughout the Nordic region, at www.forex.se and 0771-22 22 21.