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Blind Passengers
The Blind Passengers grew up in the non-allied sector of East-Berlin, Germany, behind the iron curtain around 1987. Two years after the fall of the wall they released their first album "The Glamour Of Darkness". Now the Blind Passengers are one of the most well-known industrial-metal bands in Germany. Their forth longplayer Bastard (released in G.A.S. by EPIC Records/Sony Music) was the first Blind Passengers-CD that entered the official German Album Charts. "Hammer" and "Break Out" two of the biggest german rock magazines put Blind Passengers in the record of the month position for may 99. Now they released in Germany their new and to date most successful CD "Neosapiens" at Goldrush /BMG (release in U.K. & Ireland by Iris Light Records, in Russia, Ukraine, Belarus & Baltic Staates by Irond Rec., in Czech Rep. & Slovakia by Sony Music). "Neosapiens" was 5 weeks in the TOP 10 of the official German Alternativ Charts (Peakposition:6). The science-fiction-novel "Neosapiens" (written by Blind Passengers-mastermind Nik Page) was released parallel to the new Blind Passengers-CD and got sole first-rate reviews by the literary critics. The last four years the Blind Passengers took part in more than 70 big european rock festivals (such as Rock am Ring, Rock im Park, Wacken-Open Air, Arvika-Festivalen, Zillo-Open Air, Dynamo - North Power Jam, Go Bang and much more) and played on one stage with David Bowie, The Prodigy, Sisters Of Mercy, Type O Negative, Dog Eat Dog, Front 242, Skunk Anansie, Clawfinger and many more. In sept. and oct. 99 the Blind Passengers supported very successful the last Kid Rock-tour through Germany. For more information on the ideological background of Blind Passengers and the lyrics of Nik Page read the following: MODERN FAUST STORY (taken from TEAR MAGAZIN, New York) the false gods have died taking their laws with them. Human flesh living in hypocritical harmony with the machine has merged into an immaculate organism. The army of maniacs the dragons and the "faceless" drooling over the wager looking for the kick of the perfect simulation in order to flee this plastic world as often as possible where weakness and failures are never forgiven. (from the introduction of Neosapiens, the novel, a science fiction epic by Nik Page) Growing up behind the Iron Curtain, in a suburb of East Berlin, amidst the haze of a Marxist-Leninist education, Nik Page discovered his purpose in life, relatively late. Along this path, meeting Rayner Schirner was a key experience. At age 13, Schirner was transferred to Page´s class at school, where three years later, he planted the idea in Page´s head to start the electric rock group Blind Passengers, together. "Blind Passengers symbolizes the modern society zombies, who prefer to close their eyes and ears, in order to comfortably and smoothly swim along, with everyone else in the river of society, never painfully bumping into anything along the way, trained by the fear of seeing their own blood," according to Page. This smarmy tendency remains in our collective subconscious, today, and we recognize it in all of Page´s work as an author, visionary, painter, designer and musician. "In Berlin," the setting of Page´s cyber-epic, Neosapiens, Page says, "this way of life has not changed. It´s just as common today, at the beginning of the 21st century, in a world thirsting for globalization and populated by the last generations of innocent, mortal, narcissistic and disabled people, as it was for the blind - and deaf passengers in the Soviet-controlled sector, during the 1980s." The potential of creating a powerful overall statement by combining different art forms inspired Page to record a rock CD and write a cyber-novel with the same title, on the same topic. Adding an additional facet to his brand of crossover art allowed him to more fully lose himself in his vision of an uncertain nightmare future. (it´s a nightmare for common people reading his epic, but not for Page) "More than anything else, it will be the deeply human feeling of motherly love, that will act as the largest driving force behind a gradual purging of modern man´s human roots. What parents doesn´t want to give her children the best possible start in life? In a world where only the successful, the strong and the beatiful are granted a place in the sun, a person´s genetic profile is a decisive factor in the battle for a job that garantees prosperity and recognition.Who could stand by and watch quietly as their child is run over and trampled down by all the other perfect service-cyborgs, as they march to the rhythm of a merciless, elbowing meritocracy? We are racing towards a world in which it would almost be considered child abuse if parents did not meet with their DNA designer of choice, to ensure that their child will get the optimum out of his hereditary disposition and that all kinds of genetic defects and potential illnesses have been excluded. It makes no difference, if one demonizes this development, or how many upholders of moral standarts try to stop this modern Frankenstein. It is the predestined evolution of humanity." Neosapiens, the new Blind Passengers CD, has been released simultaneously with the Neosapiens book (the final installment of a trilogy of this subject, begun in 1997). The CD provides the perfect soundtrack for the birth of the semi-synthetic human masterrace. Violent metal riffs, gloomy synthesizer, and powerful heavy drums feed the strength of perfection and immortality into the fragile body of the still natural homo sapiens. The strains of charming pop melodies blast open the path through angry, puffing walls of cold steel. Page is currently working on his first much more Gothic-Electro-Rock-orientated soloalbum (the story was released in Tear Magazin in Summer 2002 before the recordings for Sacrifight were finished). For the first time in more than six years, he has chosen a subject unrelated to the cyber-cosmos of the hybrid age. The Nik Page-CD will contain guest vocalist contributions by German music-scene heavies like Jürgen Engler (die Krupps) and Dirk Scheuber (Project Pitchfork). Page is astonished and feels misunderstood when people say the vision in his work are unbelievably gloomy. "People in earlier times were no different- the fear of the future that also led our ancestors to demonize technology. However, I believe that people in future generations would never want to switch places with us. Thanks to DNA design, people will live significantly longer and healthier lives. They will enjoy an incredible wealth of consumer goods, and virtual entertainment will enable people to have unbelievable experiences in the borderless world of cyberspace. Unfortunately, this particular "opiat of the masses" will be very tempting. I fear that only a very few will have a problem with the price that humankind will have to pay." In this irony of destiny, Page sees a modern Faust story: "When mephisto gave mankind the strength of machines and the power of technology, it was not without self-interest. He prepared the way for us to enter the lusty, colorful consumer-state that is full of greasy hot dogs, toilett deodorizers and electric razors. However, along with the technology, he also handed humankind the weapon with which it will one day murder its creator. After many laps around the path leading to immortality by DNA-styling and isolation of aging hormones, one day when humankind has finally, totally conquered death, thereby canceling the last of God´s laws of creation, Lucifer will personally show up to kick God´s ass. Although it may take another several centuries before technology will make it possible to save a person´s entire personality on silicon, enabling a post-mortem to a fresh new body, ordered a la carte, Mephisto waits patiently in the expectation of a final victory". Those who think now the Neosapiens-epic contains 120 pages of heavy philosophical material is completly wrong. The story centers on the life of an unstabile industrial punk living in a iridescent subculture, filled with the crassest virtual neuro-trips and chaotic, orgiastic rock parties. Without affecting the flow of the story, Page has cleverly woven his notorious visions into the plot and included a couple of delicate sexual fantasies. Without a doubt, these aestetic, pornographic passages confirm the rumors of Page´s enormous sexual appetite, as well as his preference for role-playing and fetish. He admits, "I do not believe that Lucifer is a man. It is my opinion that Lucifer would be inside the body of a beautiful, sensuous, libidinous woman, coming down to earth. She is the one that brings our blood to the boiling point, making us feel that we are more than a smoothly operating machine." While their videos air continously on all of the relevant european video channels from London to Moscow, in the USA, Nik Page and the Blind Passengers remain a black pearl that have not yet been discovered by the American music industry. According to wikipedia they disbanded in 2005. Official site: http://www.blindpassengers.com/ Read more on Last.fm. User-contributed text is available under the Creative Commons By-SA License; additional terms may apply.
synthpop industrial industrial metal ebm synth pop
Think About MutationNik PageDark Voices


It's no secret that consumer behavior has shifted in recent years. Now, more than ever, we live in a world of convenience and disconnect. We live in a world where more conversations are held through Snapchat than they are in person, where Dominos can be delivered by texting a pizza emoji, and where groceries are delivered in the hopes of avoiding a friendly encounter with a cashier. Now, you may be wondering how the hell this applies to your business and marketing efforts. Frankly, it comes down to the simple fact that people don't want to be bothered. Consumers want to seek out information on their own. They don't want a salesman calling and force-feeding them information about products and services that they aren't interested in. This is where inbound marketing comes into play.
Although it has been around for almost a decade, in recent years, inbound marketing has begun to gain significant traction in the marketing world. With a foundation built on strong content development, organically attracting and engaging consumers, cultivating trusted relationships and leaving customers satisfied, inbound marketing removes the interruption of traditional outbound sales and marketing tactics.
Rather than taking a shotgun approach to lead generation, inbound marketing optimizes marketing efforts to bring qualified leads right to your doorstep. By developing relatable content that communicates specifically to your ideal audience, inbound marketing allows you to deliver customer-centric content that resonates with your audience and builds brand credibility. Take blogging for example, when you consistently develop strong blog posts that speak directly to a need or a want that your audience is looking to fulfill, you are able to instantly gain trust and establish longer-lasting business relationships. As a result of placing a focused effort on delivering content that your target audience is actually interested in, you are able to maximize your marketing resources while creating a more engaged and value-driven sales cycles.
In addition to gaining increased effectiveness and efficiency in your marketing efforts, inbound marketing also serves as a more cost-effective approach than outbound marketing. Not only do you save money by reducing the size and range of the audience you are trying to reach, but because your leads are 'warmer' and more qualified, you increase your chances to generate quality opportunities, close more sales and retain more clients; all while delivering a more engaging, valuable and mutually beneficial selling environment.
Lastly, inbound marketing removes the uncertainty businesses face with their marketing efforts. In comparison to outbound marketing, inbound marketing turns market data into quantifiable metrics that better gauge the return on your marketing investment. With a stronger understanding of who your audience is and where your resources are being spent, you are able to track and measure the performance of your inbound marketing activities. This visibility and insight allow you to effectively analyze what's working, what's not, and enables you to make educated decisions as to how you should adjust your marketing strategy.
So, how do you market yourself in a way that appeals to this buying generation built around digital consumption and instant gratification? The answer is inbound marketing. Unlike traditional marketing practices, inbound marketing allows you to leverage the modern consumer's buying behavior to optimize your marketing efforts. With a focused effort on creating tailored content that delivers instant value to your target audience, you are able to cultivate long-lasting relationships that continuously deliver repeat sales and referral opportunities, increase the cost effectiveness of your marketing practices, and gain greater visibility into how your marketing efforts are paying off.
Interested in learning more about how inbound marketing can transform your marketing strategy to fit the needs of today's consumer?
Visit www.revenueriver.co or gives us a call at 303-945-4341. Click below to find out what inbound marketing can do for your business.
Nicole Germaine works in the branding industry. A Canadian by birth, she played Division 1 hockey in Minnesota.
Are Inbound Marketers Out of a Job?


"Meditation Isn't Clearing the Mind; It's Focusing on One Thing."
Meditation does not require a large chunk of sustained time, nor is it too difficult to get into. Psychologist Mike Brooks busts the misconception that it's about emptying your mind. Instead, meditation is about focusing on one thing.
Brooks also says that a total of 15 minutes of meditation in a day—not necessarily continuous—is enough to make you feel better. You can practice mindfulness meditation at any time, like when you are eating or walking the dogs or on your commute. One of my favorite tricks is to focus on your breath and count it. We've talked about this and more techniques in our beginner's guide to meditation.
The takeaway here is that mindfulness isn't difficult, but more importantly, it's not a failure if your mind wanders. It's natural for that to happen, especially if you're new to meditation. Do it in short bursts throughout the day, you'll get better at it.


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French Language Immersion | Learn French, Intern in Fashion & More
12 Mar 2018 · 4,069 Total reads
By Volunteer Forever
Guest Author Contribution
France pulls you in from the very first second. From its village markets and cafe terraces to its vineyards and world-class art, France makes you feel alive. Friendly people, great food, and wonderful culture and history will only make a visit there that much more amazing.
But you don't have to travel to France to learn the language.
French is one of the fastest-growing languages in the world, with half of all French speakers living in Africa. It is the official language in 29 countries, and through colonization and diaspora, became the sixth most widely spoken language in the world, following Mandarin Chinese, English, Hindi, Spanish, and Arabic. More than 300 million people speak it in some form, either as native speakers or as speakers of varying dialects and creoles.
If you're interested in learning French or want to improve your French language skills beyond your high-school textbook lessons, consider a language travel adventure that places you in daily contact with native speakers.
Volunteering or interning in a French-speaking country is an awesome idea, and it gives you lots of great options to learn about a new culture, improve your language skills, and even make a positive impact on a community that welcomes you. Use this guide as a resource to choose the best volunteer or intern program abroad, either in France, in one of the many French-speaking countries of Africa or the French Caribbean!
French Language Immersion in France
Travelers from around the world flock to France each year. It's the world's most popular travel destination, usually getting between 80 to 90 million visitors annually. Although France is certainly ready to accommodate guests, you should take time to familiarize yourself with the local language, religion, culture, and values. Your understanding will go a long way toward making your trip go as smooth as possible.
Know that France is amazingly diverse. Paris is one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the world, while Brittany is where you'll find a still-flourishing Celtic culture. The French Alps offer incredible scenery and great skiing, while the long Atlantic beaches call for you to relax and breathe in the ocean air. Take time to explore all the different experiences this country provides.
The French people are immensely proud of their history. As one of the globe's oldest nations, France has long been a leader in the arts, science, and industry. Come with appreciation and knowledge for all that France has accomplished, and you'll get more out of your stay.
If you hope to intern or volunteer in France, you have an array of opportunities.
As a major global economy, France offers internships ranging from finance positions in Paris to jobs in the wine industry. No matter where your major or career aspirations lie, you can intern abroad in France and gain valuable experience.
France has a need for English language instruction since knowledge of the language represents a pathway to more job opportunities. If you want to teach English in France, you'll find positions are typically available through organizations like International TEFL Academy. Even better, such organizations often offer the chance to get your TEFL certificate along with job placement. That will make you qualified for all sorts of English positions in France and throughout the world.
While France may not seem like it requires a lot of volunteering help, the country as a whole does have needs to address. From helping with village construction to agricultural assistance to environmental conservation, you can make a positive impact when you volunteer abroad in France.
Additionally, you can go to France to do something fun, like learn French or take a skiing course. You probably know that France has arguably the greatest cuisine, so why not learn to make some French food while you're there? You can even learn how to sail by going on an expedition from the UK to France (how exciting would that be?).
Travel with Frontier to France
Frontier has placed more than 20,000 volunteers and travelers abroad since its establishment in 1989. A well-known and trusted name in the industry, Frontier has many programs that center on immersing participants in the country's culture.
Frontier offers several programs in France, including a program where you can learn French in Lyon. Experience the rich heritage of Lyon, one of France's most historic cities, as you learn French and make connections with locals. You take classes in the morning and then test your skills during the afternoon. The program runs one week or longer, and costs start from $795.
Another fun program hosted by Frontier is the London to Paris Climbing Adventure trip. Develop your bouldering skills surrounded by the splendid scenery of Fontainebleau – the adventure lasts 3 days and costs $395.
French Immersion in Madagascar
France's influence on other countries began in the 16th century, once Spain introduced Europe to the New World. France then colonized territories in Africa, until 1960 when it peacefully ended relations. Traces of French culture, architecture, and language remain embedded in many places and can be found mingling into food, music, and customs.
Madagascar, an island country off the coast of South Africa, is home to some of the world's most spectacular animals, including lemurs and sea turtles. It also is home to world-class beaches, deserts, and rainforests! Take time to explore the Indri Special Reserve and national park, famous for its lemurs, large chameleons, and the rare blue boa constrictor. The landscape is phenomenal, and there are amazing adventures to be had in Madagascar. Include time for activities such as swimming, snorkeling, diving, horseback riding, hiking, and even mountain biking when you visit Madagascar.
Travel with Projects Abroad to Madagascar
For 25 years, Projects Abroad has offered quality, affordable volunteer programs, placing 100,000 travelers worldwide since its founding. With more than 600 trained staff members, Projects Abroad is considered one of the world's leading international volunteer organizations.
Join Projects Abroad in Madagascar on a French Language Course. Based in the small town of Andasibe, you'll spend 15 hours of personal classes per week, and staying with a host family will help you rapidly improve your language skills. When you complete the course, you can choose to spend time on a volunteer project to keep practicing French.
Combine your French and your English language fluency on a teaching placement, helping to improve the lives of young people ages six to 17. The official languages here are French and Malagasy, and English is a desirable language to learn because it opens the door for better employment opportunities in the travel and hotel trade. You can contribute more than basic education when you share in the social development of children, providing friendship and emotional support. The fee for the project is $2,565 for two weeks.
French Immersion and Volunteering in Morocco
Morocco, the exotic gateway to West Africa, is separated from Spain by the Straits of Gibraltar. In one week you can hike the Atlas Mountains in search of Berber villages, go camel trekking in the Sahara Desert, swim in both the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, and shop the glitzy markets of Casablanca. Enjoy getting lost in Fez, with its maze of buildings that confound even the locals, then relax with a cup of mint tea and people watching when you've found your way back to familiar cafes. Visit a Moroccan spice market and then have dinner in Marrakesh's central square, Djemaa El Fna – a must for all foodies!
Volunteer with Projects Abroad in Morocco
Immerse yourself in the fascinating African culture of Morocco with a Projects Abroad French Language trip. The official language of Morocco is Arabic, however, Rabat's business and politics mean that French is a culturally important language here.
You'll live with a host family and work with a tutor for three hours each morning. When you spend your free time absorbing the Francophone culture through access to libraries, cinemas, and music, plus making friends with other volunteers in the program, your language skills will improve quickly. Add a volunteer program to your language lessons and help with the Nomad Project. Spend two weeks near the city of Guelmim, known as the Gate of the Sahara, helping your Berber host family build nomadic homes, cook bread and traditional meals, and herd camels and goats across the dunes to search for sources of water. Become nomadic for two weeks at a cost of $2,765.
French Immersion in Togo
From coastal communities to traditional African villages set against dramatic backdrops, Togo is a geographically diverse country. This tiny sliver of land boasts palm-fringed beaches, rolling forests and hills, and even dry savannahs where some of Africa's wildlife still roam. Hikers find Togo to be exceptionally easy to travel, and when you're done with exploring, you can head for the laid-back city of Lomé. An urban oasis, Lomé has restaurants, and nightclubs, and beaches and charm that harken back to the day it was named "the Pearl of West Africa."
Travel with Projects Abroad to Togo
Travel to Togo to learn French with Projects Abroad for a two- or four-week intensive course. Togo gained independence from France in 1960, but the official language of this West African nation remains French and is used in formal education, administration, and commerce. Meet with your tutor each day for lessons tailored to you, then practice your conversational skills with your host family. The maritime city of Lomé is home to a busy French Cultural Center, which shows francophone movies and hosts live music events.
Add a childcare volunteering placement to your language immersion experience, and help the street children of Lomé. You'll work at a childcare center, helping with homework, teaching hygiene, and organizing activities like sports or arts and craft lessons. Program fees for two weeks on this project are $2,365.
French Immersion in Senegal
Senegal, on Africa's west coast, is home to more than 15 million people, most of them crowding into cities like Dakar that combust with a mixture of Creole-inspired restaurants, colorful markets, traffic jams, and madcap nightlife. A country of contrasting locales, you can spend quiet days on the beaches of Cap Skirring, or travel north to Saint-Louis – a Unesco World Heritage Site with preserved colonial architecture. If you're adventurous and crave open spaces, you can go kayaking, hiking, or mountain biking in national parks. Senegal is proud of its storytelling tradition, practiced by griots, who have told the West African history for thousands of years through words and music. It's also known for its musical heritage, and the playing of Mbalax, a fusion of jazz, soul, Latin, and rock blended with sabar, the traditional drumming and dance music of Senegal.
Volunteer with Frontier in Senegal
Develop your French linguistic skills when you immerse yourself in the Senegalese culture and traditions with Frontier. This two-week program includes one week of private French lessons with a qualified teacher to keep you on track. You'll stay with a host family, giving you the opportunity to practice French every day. Your second week is spent participating in either music and cultural class, or on a media placement.
If you choose to take a music class, you'll learn how to use various African instruments such as the Djembé, the Sabaar, and the Tama. You'll also learn traditional dances, including the Mbalax. On the media placement, you'll volunteer at a local radio station or television center, working alongside professionals to conduct interviews, write articles, or make programs in English.
French Immersion in Guadeloupe
Guadeloupe is located in the Leeward Islands, part of the Lesser Antilles in the Caribbean. It consists of two main islands: Basse-Terre to the west and Grande-Terre to the east. Because these are separated by a narrow strait and crossed with bridges, they are often referred to as a single island. All five islands of Guadeloupe have been designated a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO. Christopher Columbus named the island Santa María de Guadalupe in 1493, on his second trip to the Americas. When it became a French colony in 1674, it retained the name. The island became a desirable location because of the sugar trade, built on the backs of slaves, and was seized by Great Britain several times, before eventually returning to France in the Treaty of Paris.
Because of its succession of invading countries (Spain, France, and England), and its large slave contingency, the island's population is a mix of people of European, Asian, African, and indigenous descent. Most of the residents observe the Roman Catholic religion.
It is heavily influenced by French cuisine and the Caribbean reverence for the natural environment, resulting in French culture with a Creole twist. The official language is French, though Antillean Creole is spoken by most of the population.
Travel to Guadeloupe with Global Leadership Adventures
Travel to Guadeloupe, the Pearl of the French Caribbean, for a language immersion experience and community service project. Your French will improve daily as you interact with the locals and take language classes through a placement with Global Leadership Adventures. Founded in 2004, this organization provides programs abroad that combine community service with hands-on learning and adventure for student travelers.
The GLA Experiential Language Curriculum integrates learning (or improving your skills with) the French language into all aspects of the adventure, through community service, excursions, and participating in cultural events. Your work with a community service project is important to the island, where 77% of its territory is classified as natural reserves. You'll help in a community garden, cultivating native species that preserve the natural heritage of the country. You'll also learn about sustainable farming methods that protect the environment while providing a livelihood and help with an ecological project that restores mangroves in damaged areas. Another service project places you at an English camp for Guadeloupe children, teaching them about your language and culture.
Spend your free time exploring the old forts, or sightsee the colonial homes and markets. You can hike through lush, tropical forests to Le Carbet waterfalls. You're on an island, so spend some time snorkeling the pristine Caribbean waters. Expand your learning with a cooking class or a traditional music workshop. Guadeloupe music is a mix of Afro-Caribbean rhythms and many singers prefer to write lyrics in creole.
Ready to Travel?
From French language classes and English teaching positions to environmental conservation and cultural homestays, there are many ways you can visit a French-speaking country and have an amazing experience that helps both you and the people you visit.
When looking through programs, consider your budget, preferences, and goals. By doing your due diligence, you should be able to find the perfect program. Then, all that's left to do is plan your adventure! À bientôt!
Volunteer Forever · Guest Author Contribution
The mission of Volunteer Forever is to make it easier for people to volunteer, teach, intern, and travel around the world by helping them find and fund their trips abroad.
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redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


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»White Cube Alpha (Variation – FIAC)«
»White Cube Alpha (Variation – FIAC)«, 2014
https://benayoun.com/moben/2014/12/14/white-cube-alpha-variation-fiac/
Archive of Digital Art (ADA). "Maurice Benayoun - »White Cube Alpha (Variation – FIAC)«". https://www.digitalartarchive.at/database/general/work/white-cube-alpha-variation-fiac.html (retrieved 2019-30-09). @online{ADAartistprofile, author = {Archive of Digital Art (ADA)}, title = {Maurice Benayoun - »White Cube Alpha (Variation – FIAC)«}, url = {https://www.digitalartarchive.at/database/general/work/white-cube-alpha-variation-fiac.html}, urldate = {retrieved 2019-30-09}
Seeking the common denominator of all contemporary artworks, in spite of their spectacular diversity, the artist found that it should be the very perfume of the art gallery, freshly repainted, before the exhibition opening.
White Cube is first an attempt to define the complexity and richness of this fragrance and its symbolic power. Telling from the head note to the base note the story of an aesthetic addiction.
WHITE CUBE alpha, 0?9, are the different stages of this discovery. Each bottle, preserving one specific step of this quest, is offered with an original formula delivered to the collector for his/her exclusive use.
More about White Cube
White Cube Alpha, fragrance
Each White Cube alpha is a unique fragrance, a new step in the quest of the essence of contemporary art.
The most sensible experts have for a long time been aware that what counts is not producing an important work of art or exploring new paths, but 'creating contemporary art', as one of the curators of the Pompidou Centre so very rightly declared. Most of the time, we neglect the importance of his/her statement.
Recognition is the basis of acceptance in the art world and requires producing minimal signs of respect for implicit standards. There is thus no point in being surprised by reactions of refusal that are based not on rational decisions, but on the necessity to preserve all or some of the rules that define the institutional framework, which enable art to evolve in a context of total serenity.
What is important then is to identify the properties determining the limits of these external signs of contemporary art, which mean that a critic, a curator or a collector will immediately feel he is on familiar ground, with just a sufficient degree of excitement to allow him to glimpse a possible danger, existing, it is true, but that represents no threat to the body or to the spirit experiencing it.
Among these legitimizing characteristics, certain aspects create a sort of permanence that gives them a long?term permanence. The use of aromas in the food industry, which gives the consumer the impression that what he is eating contains real freshly?picked strawberries with that taste of genuine traditional products characteristic of reputed organic agriculture.
I propose attempting to achieve the equivalent in art and producing a work out of it, thus creating the essence of contemporary art. Among the essential oils used in contemporary art, I should like to automatically exclude the smell of linseed oil. Along with turpentine, it was too characteristic of art exhibitions in the 50s to give that contemporary fragrance which should affect traditions in a permanent manner. The smell of acrylic paint, which characterizes the recently renewed White Cube, is more discreet and more undeniably present at the smart opening nights of exhibitions.
Maurice Benayoun: White Cube Alpha (Variation – FIAC), 30-09-2019, in: Archive of Digital Art
»White Cube Alpha«
Variation-Media Art Fair


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10 DIGITAL AND COMMUNICATIONS TRENDS FOR 2019: PART TWO
communications, digital marketing, trends
Following on from part one, our digital and comms experts continue to share their top predictions from 2019.
User-generated content will increase and evolve
Studies shows that consumers trust user-generated content 50% more than content pushed by brands. Alongside this, technologies such as augmented reality (AR), mixed or virtual reality and artificial intelligence (AI) are changing the way consumers interact and engage with brands.
In an era of prosumers, we expect brands to develop new ways of involving their communities to meet their expectations. Whilst previously constrained to social media, user generated content is expected to populate more and more dimensions of the communication tools spectrum.
By 2022, according to Gartner, 70% of enterprises will be experimenting with immersive technologies for consumer and enterprise use, and 25% will have deployed them to production. The French start-up Elise Technologies is good example of implementation of those technologies in physical displays. This AI powered advertisement signage allows users to publish instantaneously their comments to a specific advertising campaign by using the recommended hashtags or keywords. Throughout 2019, we expect to see more brands take advantage of emerging technology to take UGC to the next level.
Video will take on a strategic role
In a world where 80% of all internet traffic is expected to come from video in 2019, it's hard to press pause on the importance of video content. From news reports to product reviews, DIY instructions to viral clips, videos are becoming increasingly important in our everyday lives.
The ability to watch is now expected. In fact 54% of consumers want to see more video content from brands and businesses. So, what does this mean for brands in 2019? Well, before the director's chair gets dusted off, it's important to ensure that video is used strategically and not just a stand-alone tactic. A one off video which is scattered across social platforms occasionally just isn't enough for today's consumer.
Those who are already producing the right content will increasingly recognize video as an integral part of the customer journey, and those who aren't using videos will need to get the camera out or be left behind.
We also expect to see brands paying closer attention to the analytics behind the scenes as measurability improves. Whilst there's still some confusion around how views are measured on platforms such as Facebook and YouTube, demand for precision will drive forward improvements and encourage marketers to improve their video analytics skills. Ultimately, this will help brands make the most of the demand for video content.
Podcast popularity will increase
A medium that has been relatively untouched in the UK, podcasts continue to go from strength to strength in the US, with recent figures from Nielsen finding that one in five US adults listen to podcasts every week. Here in the UK, Ofcom reported earlier this year that almost 6 million adults in the UK are listening to a podcast at least once a week, double the number of listeners five years ago.
To add to this, nearly half (45%) of all smart speaker owners in the US listen to podcasts and audio books regularly. Although this number isn't as high in the UK, with more than one in 10 homes containing smart speakers, as this market grows we expect podcast listening figures to do the same.
With the increasing number of podcast listeners in the UK, one area that isn't as well served as in other markets is business podcasts. Adding podcasting to your strategy, be it appearing on podcasts or running your own, not only means more content and a new medium to engage with, it has the potential to add a further strength and relevance to your search engine optimisation (SEO) efforts.
Brand polarization will dominate
When Nike decided to make Colin Kaepernick the front for their campaign, there was the expected uproar on social media, including videos of people burning their favorite swoosh-laden products. But, with a 31% YOY sales increase after the ad launched, this intentionally polarized campaign worked in their favor.
This campaign moved beyond "brand with purpose" and into a far more aggressive space that challenges people to make a choice: are you with us or against us?
With wider and broader discussion about socio-political issues it makes sense for some brands to enter these discussions to build awareness and relevance. It's not a new phenomenon, but it's a trend that's set to continue. There's almost an expectation from the wider public for organizations to partake.
However, taking advantage of this trend can be difficult – especially for B2B brands that, more often than not, can be seen as too concerned with playing it safe.
Ultimately, it isn't enough to jump on a cultural bandwagon, blindly participating in the big conversations or trying to make social commentary a key feature of your campaign. Success comes when it is done with boldness of conviction, a clear point of view, and relevance to your business and your customers. Otherwise, it's better just to say nothing.
Bespoke illustrations will be brought to life
After years of stale stock-imagery, the influx of bespoke illustration is revitalizing how the web looks. From minimal and hand-drawn to photo-collage and 3D isometric, we're seeing a world of marvelously creative and diverse work.
Absorbing current trends from branding and UI design such as minimalism, complex gradients, bright colors and abstraction, illustrations are more easily tailored to a website's brand-tone and UI than the more traditional photographic approach. This results in not only a more personal and streamlined brand experience, but also one that is more playful and interesting.
As well as being memorable and bespoke, illustrations are also great at communicating messages in a concise way that doesn't feel forced (say goodbye to cheesy stock images of people smiling at screens).
As more large names push the envelope with this approach (see Slack, Dropbox etc.), expect to see more traditionally conservative organizations embracing illustrations as a way to broaden their appeal.
On top of this, technological advances in the coming year will see more of these illustrations coming to life through advanced animations and interactions. Already, we are seeing the boundaries of what's possible on the web being continually pushed.
LEWIS Rings the Bell at Boston PR Awards Gala
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Washington, DC – The Democrats in the U.S. House of Representatives stared down the White House today and decided to stick with their version of revisions to the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act. The House voted to adjourn without letting the phone companies off the hook for breaking the law by helping the government spy on Americas. The House is leaving town and allowing the unconstitutional Protect America Act to expire this weekend.
"It is heartening that the House is standing up to the bullying from the president. The House is saying it will not give in to the administration's lies and fear mongering. This administration has abused its power time and time again, and finally the House is standing up and saying no. The House is also sticking with the decision it made back in November not to give the phone companies and the Internet providers amnesty for illegal actions over the past six years when they provided Americans' private calls and emails to the government without warrants.
"Members of the House were wise to let the clearly unconstitutional Protect America Act expire. Now, if the government wants to wiretap Americans on American soil it needs to get a warrant from the FISA court.
· Orders are not specific to individuals and can pick up new targets in the future. Although the orders are secret, we know the authority granted to the executive branch allowed them to create whole programs of surveillance that are not confined to any specific individual or facility – in fact, that breadth is precisely what the PAA is about. So, as programs continue, it stands to reason agents can pick up new suspects, phone lines, email accounts, etc., without the need to return to court.


text:
Snapshots are really a time captured Deployment and effectly refect the a Deployment state.

Snapshots have 3 primary states:

PROPOSED: All snapshots on non-system deployments start in the PROPOSED state. When in this state, the annealer will ignore any noderoles in the snapshot, no hooks will be called for any state transitions, and user data for the node roles can be edited.
COMMITTED: When a snapshot is in committed, userdata in node roles cannot be edited, the annealer will transition any nodes in TODO, and hooks will be called for any state transitions.
ARCHIVED: Snapshots in archived state will be ignored by the annealer and by just about everything. Eventually you will be able to look through them to satisfy your curiosity about the past states of the cluster.
There are two other states that are substates of the COMMITTED state
that are primarily for consumption by the UI:

ACTIVE, which is when all of the noderoles in a COMMITTED snapshot are in the ACTIVE state, and
ERROR, when any noderole in a COMMITTED snapshot is in the ERROR state.
State transitions for snapshots:

(previous snapshot) -> PROPOSED: The previous snapshot is set to ARCHIVED. The new snapshot gets a copy of all the noderoles in the previous snapshot, which will have the same data and the same states as the old ones.
PROPOSED -> COMMITTED: All PROPOSED noderoles in the snapshot are transitioned to TODO or BLOCKED, depending on whether or not they have any non-active parents. The only way to go from proposed to committed is via the commit method for the snapshot.
COMMITTED -> PROPOSED: The only way to go from COMMITTED to PROPOSED is via the snapshot recall method.
(COMMITTED || PROPOSED) -> ARCHIVED: A snapshot gets transitioned to ARCHIVED when it is superceded by a new snapshot. Archived snapshots are ignored.
The system deployment is super-special in that its snapshots can not
be transitioned to PROPOSED.

Instances can only be created by

1. Cloning the template instance using barclamp.create_proposal (see Barclamp/Config)
2. Editing an existing configuration which clones from the active instance

#### API Actions

 Verb 	 URL 	 Comments

 GET
   api/v2/snapshots
   List

 GET
   api/v2/snapshots/:id
   Specific Item

 PUT
   api/v2/snapshots/:id
   Update Item

 POST
   api/v2/snapshots
   Create Item

 DELETE
   -
   NOT SUPPORTED

 PUT
   api/v2/snapshots/:id/propose
   Creates a new snapshot as the Deployment Head

 PUT
   api/v2/snapshots/:id/commit
   Commits snapshot for action by the Annealer

 PUT
   api/v2/snapshots/:id/recall
   Interrupts the Annealer

 GET
   api/v2/snapshots/:id/node_roles
   Shows the node-roles for a snapshot

 GET
   api/v2/snapshots/:id/graph
   Shows the node-role relationships for a snapshot.  Used for the UI Graph

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


All assignments, tutorials, handouts and solutions, where appropriate, will be made available on MyUni as the course progresses.Recordings of lectures will generally be available on MyUni following each lecture.
The lecturer guides the students through the course material in 36 classes. Students are to engage with the material in the classes and in private study. Interaction with the lecturer and discussion of any difficulties that arise during the lecture is encouraged. Students are expected to participate in all lectures. Frequent small homework assignments will promote staged active learning. Fortnightly assignments help students strengthen their understanding of the theory and their skills in applying it, and allow them to gauge their progress. Small open-ended projects aim to facilitate developing investigative and integrative analytical skills.
Late assignments will not be accepted without a medical certificate and a request prior to the due date.


text:
package edu.missouristate.mote;

import java.awt.Color;
import java.awt.Font;
import java.awt.Insets;
import javax.swing.JPanel;
import javax.swing.UIManager;

/**
 * Constants used by Mote.
 */
public final class Constants {

    // *************************************************************************
    // GENERAL
    // *************************************************************************

    /** Program version. */
    public static final String VERSION = "0.7.1";

    // *************************************************************************
    // EFFECT SIZES
    // *************************************************************************

    /** Minimum value for 1 - alpha. */
    public static final double MIN_CONFIDENCE = 0.001;

    /** Maximum value for 1 - alpha. */
    public static final double MAX_CONFIDENCE = 0.999;

    /** Minimum degrees of freedom. */
    public static final double MIN_DF = 1;

    /** Minimum sample size. */
    public static final double MIN_SS = MIN_DF + 1;

    /**
     * Minimum density (y value) that should be included in the PDF curve as
     * a fraction of the PDF maximum value.
     */
    public static final double MIN_PDF_PROB = 0.01;

    /** Maximum difference between the target and actual CDF values. */
    public static final double PRECISION = 0.0000001;

    /** T value (x axis) increments on the PDF curve. */
    public static final double T_STEP = 0.05;

    /** F value (x axis) increments on the PDF curve. */
    public static final double F_STEP = 0.05;

    /** X value increments on the PDF curve. */
    public static final double X_STEP = 0.05;

    /** Maximum number of iterations before converging on non-centrality. */
    public static final int NC_MAX_ITER = 100;

    /** Minimum value for R. */
    public static final double MIN_R = -1 + PRECISION;

    /** Maximum value for R. */
    public static final double MAX_R = 1 - PRECISION;

    // *************************************************************************
    // APPEARANCE
    // *************************************************************************

    /** Data grid min height. */
    public static final int GRID_MIN_HEIGHT = 600;

    /** Data grid min width. */
    public static final int GRID_MIN_WIDTH = 320;

    /** Property grid column names. */
    public static final String[] GRID_COL_NAMES = new String[]{"Name", "Value"};

    /** Percent of the property grid's width taken up by the name column. */
    public static final double GRID_NAME_PCT = 0.6;

    /** Insets for the cells in the property grid. */
    public static final Insets CELL_INSETS = new Insets(1, 5, 1, 1);

    /** Height of the cells in the property grid. */
    public static final int CELL_HEIGHT = 20;

    /** Property grid help area min height. */
    public static final int HELP_MIN_HEIGHT = 110;

    /** Decimal format for property grid numbers. */
    public static final String DECIMAL_FORMAT = "#,##0.0######";

    /** Background color for the graph. */
    public static final Color GRAPH_BG_COLOR =
            UIManager.getColor("TextField.background");

    /** Default graph height. */
    public static final int GRAPH_HEIGHT = 550;

    /** Default graph width. */
    public static final int GRAPH_WIDTH = 680;

    /** Graph gridline color. */
    public static final Color GRAPH_GRID_COLOR =
            UIManager.getColor("Table.gridColor");

    /** Background color for the form. */
    public static final Color FORM_BG_COLOR =
            UIManager.getColor("TextField.background");

    /** Name of the property grid input category. */
    public static final String INPUT_CATEGORY = "Inputs";

    /** Name of the property grid derived inputs category. */
    public static final String DERIVED_CATEGORY = "Derived";

    /** Name of the property grid results category. */
    public static final String OUTPUT_CATEGORY = "Results";

    /** Background color for the property grid name fields. */
    public static final Color NAME_BG_COLOR =
            UIManager.getColor("TableHeader.background");

    /** Foreground color for the property grid name fields. */
    public static final Color NAME_FG_COLOR =
            UIManager.getColor("TableHeader.foreground");

    /** Background color for the property grid value fields. */
    public static final Color VALUE_BG_COLOR =
            UIManager.getColor("Table.background");

    /** Foreground color for the property grid value fields. */
    public static final Color VALUE_FG_COLOR =
            UIManager.getColor("Table.foreground");

    /** Background color for the property grid category fields. */
    public static final Color CATEGORY_BG_COLOR =
            UIManager.getColor("Table.dropLineColor");

    /** Foreground color for the property grid category fields. */
    public static final Color CATEGORY_FG_COLOR =
            UIManager.getColor("Table.background");

    /** Background color for the property grid selected field. */
    public static final Color SELECT_BG_COLOR =
            UIManager.getColor("Table.selectionBackground");

    /** Foreground color for the property grid selected field. */
    public static final Color SELECT_FG_COLOR =
            UIManager.getColor("Table.selectionForeground");

    /** Chart font. */
    public static final Font CHART_FONT = new JPanel().getFont();

    // *************************************************************************
    // UNICODE CHARACTERS
    // *************************************************************************

    /** Greek letter lowercase alpha. */
    public static final String ALPHA_LOWER = "\u03B1";

    /** Greek letter lowercase chi. */
    public static final String CHI_LOWER = "\u03C7";

    /** Greek letter lowercase delta. */
    public static final String DELTA_LOWER = "\u03B4";

    /** Greek letter uppercase delta. */
    public static final String DELTA_UPPER = "\u0394";

    /** Lowercase e with an accent. */
    public static final String E_ACCENT_LOWER = "\u00E9";

    /** Greek letter lowercase eta. */
    public static final String ETA_LOWER = "\u03B7";

    /** Greek letter lowercase lambda. */
    public static final String LAMBDA_LOWER = "\u03BB";

    /** Greek letter lowercase mu. */
    public static final String MU_LOWER = "\u03BC";

    /** Greek letter lowercase omega. */
    public static final String OMEGA_LOWER = "\u03C9";

    /** Greek letter uppercase omega. */
    public static final String OMEGA_UPPER = "\u03A9";

    /** Greek letter uppercase phi. */
    public static final String PHI_UPPER = "\u03A6";

    /** Greek letter lowercase sigma. */
    public static final String SIGMA_LOWER = "\u03C3";

    /** Superscripted "2". */
    public static final String SUPERSCRIPT2 = "\u00B2";

    // *************************************************************************
    // CONSTRUCTOR
    // *************************************************************************
    /**
     * Initialize a new instance of a Constants.
     */
    private Constants() {
    }
}


From 1st July 2016 we were appointed to manage Gershwin Court. On the day our Area Manager, Brenda and Business Development Manager Lucy enjoyed a welcome drink with the residents.
Gershwin Co urt is a development of 32 units for the over 60's set in pleasant and well maintained gardens. The estate has a full time Estate Manager.
We are confident that 1st July was the beginning of a great relationship between Gershwin Court and ELM Group and we will do our best to deliver an outstanding service.


MATTHEW FRANCIS RICE is registered attorney admitted in New York State in 2004. The registration number is 4222345. The company name is MARSHALL DENNEHEY WARNER COLEMAN & GOGGIN. The office address is 800 Westchester Ave, Rye Brook, NY 10573-1354. The county is Westchester. The phone number is (914) 997-0072. The law school is ST. JOHN'S.


The Doctor's friends are being kidnapped, which leads him to the fields of Trenzalore, where his greatest secret will be revealed and Clara's mystery will be solved.
Gwen is mistaken for Morgana and kidnapped. Against Uther's wishes, Arthur heads out to fight for her freedom, with Merlin by his side to help him.


Windows 7 end of life is in one year (January 14, 2020). How's your Windows 10 migration going?
If you haven't migrated yet, now's the time. But even if you migrated already, you're probably not out of the woods yet, either.
As I mentioned in my 2019 EUC predictions, it's crunch time for Windows 10 migrations. Enterprise adoption ticked over 50% in October, and as of today, we only have one more year until the Windows 7 end of life, on January 14, 2020.
Anyway, we know the drill. A lot of desktop teams are going to be busy getting down to business this year, possibly pusing other EUC projects off for a while; and the folks that will try to stay on Windows 7 have to figure out a way to stay supported and secure.
Windows 10 migration has already been covered extensively, both here at BrianMadden.com and in the rest of the IT world, so there's nothing new in particular to say about it today. However, I'll mention that in rereading old XP to 7 migration articles, I noticed a lot of commentators saying they would just try to ride Windows 7 as close to the end as possible, so there's another reason why companies waited.
Now, what if you absolutely need to go beyond the Windows 7 end of life?
When XP EOL'd, we wrote several articles about the security implications, extended support costs, and various ways to keep going with it. Plenty of XP machines lived on, and we all get a kick out of glimpsing them in the wild, often in kiosks, digital signage, and point-of-sale terminals in mom-and-pop businesses. And indeed, we saw Microsoft issue a several patches for Windows XP, for example, there was an Internet Explorer patch right after the EOL in 2014, and a patch in 2017 in the wake of WannaCry. Having said that, the "XPocalypse" didn't turn out to be terrible.
Hopefully the apps you need to support will work in a virtualized environment (this might not be the case for some industrial machinery control software), but this certainly is a lot better than the options we had with XP. Plus, with Windows 7 is running in WVD, Microsoft will be able to keep a close watch on it.
Of course, there will be plenty of folks that just try to do their best to lock down or isolate their unsupported machines after the Windows 7 end of life, or turn to alternatives like ReactOS.
Again, we have one more year until January 14, 2020. How are you doing? Are you migrated and happy? Migrated and cursing Windows 10? Just getting started? Or will you be running Windows 7 workloads on January 15, 2020? Let us know in the comments.
I read this survey—definitely a good read. Thanks for sharing!


text:
Adoption Constellation I Carla Van Walsum, Ph.D. | Holistic Psychology
MYTHS & FACTS ABOUT ADOPTION
Adoption Healing
"My experience with the Systemic Family Constellations was profound. Having been adopted and reunited with my biological maternal family, I learned that the theme of abandonment ran through the generations."
My biological mother had abandoned four daughters, and each of us had an eldest child who was abandoned by their fathers. I had heard of family system constellation and it was the only form of therapy that I was aware of that would address an inherited pattern and it was my intention to clear that pattern for myself and my daughter. Two days prior to my scheduled constellation, I learned that my biological maternal grandmother had abandoned two children prior to meeting my grandfather. She was judged harshly by her family and carried the guilt and shame with her. I believed I had discovered the point of causation. The constellation work took me beyond my intellectual understanding into revelation of the dynamics of unconscious genetic programming by enabling me to observe and experience the energetic pattern to which I had been born into and which had affects in my relationships throughout my life.
I was asked to invite one of the group of participants, strangers to me, who attended the Constellation, to "be" me, and to guide her to a position in the space that "felt right". All of the selections and positioning are done by intuition, by feeling, rather than by intellect or reasoning.
The sensations are so strong as to whether a position feels right, as are the effects that take place in the people who are positioned, that the rational mind cannot doubt the validity of what is happening on this "stage". I had not thought about my biological father prior to the Constellation, and when I was asked to place him in the space, I placed him far from "me" and facing away from me, that we could not see each other. This was what felt comfortable to me, though the analysis of the placement does not precede, but follows the placement. As I realize that we cannot see each other and I placed him facing away from me, I thought, "of course, it makes sense that I would feel comfortable with him over there, because that's where he has always been."
When Carla gently touched him and asked how he was feeling, he responded that he didn't really feel anything, as if he didn't know why he was standing there. She had him turn to face his daughter and, over the face of this complete stranger, who did not know the story, came a look of shock, followed by "I forgot.. I forgot…. I'm so sorry, I forgot."
This was fascinating to me as I imagined he had forgotten I existed at all. His relationship with my biological mother was very brief, when she informed him of the pregnancy, he left her, and the next time she saw him was after the adoption. She told him, "It was a girl, I gave her up for adoption." and he got up and walked away without a word. I believed that he truly forgot that there was a baby 43 years ago.
Upon remembering that he had a child, the stand in for my father then became angry with my biological mother blamed her. "It's not my fault. You didn't give me a choice!" and she responded, "It's not my fault, you left us." The person standing in as my mother had the exact intonation, the righteousness of my biological mother. All of what transpired made perfect sense and I knew that what was being portrayed was accurate on a deep level. None of these people knew the story but felt these things by the positioning in the space and energy dynamics. My maternal grandmother was brought near my biological mother, who turned her back to her mother. The woman standing in as her mother wanted to be near her daughter, close to her daughter and the guilt was all over her expressions. Carla then brought in another person but did not say who this person was and placed her near my biological grandmother.
I knew at once that this was my great grandmother. When Carla asked her how she felt, she said she felt frustrated and cold and angry and she just wanted (her daughter) away from her, to get out of her way. At the time, it became clear that whether or not she spoke these words to her daughter in life or simply carried that feeling, my grandmother picked up the energy of not being wanted, or being a burden and obstacle to her mother. It now, made sense that this pattern originated here. This event, caused the woman playing my mother, to forgive her mother and for them to approach me together.
It was not until a week after the constellation, that I learned that my grandmother was the 7th child of 15 living children, and of 19 preganancies. Of course, the mother of 15, living in poverty, would at least at times, feel burdened by her children. My biological grandmother internalized this very deeply and it resulted in a pattern of abandonment that ran through the females for three generations.
There were further interactions, during which I replaced the person representing "me", and which brought love, harmony and release in these relationships. The Constellation concluded with interactions which enabled me to stand feeling not only free from the pattern, but very much supported by all of the family members behind me. I knew, deep in my heart, that the pattern had been cleared.
Most remarkably, the shift not only had obvious effects in my life over the course of the following week, but in the life of my daughter and my biological mother. All had energy freed up in different areas, especially regarding our creative self expression. A variety of subtle and specific changes, shifts in perception and liberation in creative expression occurred within the three of us over the course of the two weeks following the session. Here, a month later, I feel as if I have entered a new world, with new possibilities -not unlike the experience of moving to a new country.
I whole heartedly recommend this work to anyone who was adopted or who gave a child up for adoption. This work Is powerful, immediate and it's effects are far reaching. "
Mindy Y, Boynton Beach


Experts giving evidence concurrently in court – known as hot-tubbing – is improving quality, saving trial time and helping judges determine disputed issues, the first study of the practice since it was introduced in 2013 has found.
A Civil Justice Council working group also highlighted a series of improvements that would help encourage hot-tubbing, including a re-drafted version of the practice direction, a new guidance note for judges and practitioners, and an information note for expert witnesses.
Its newly published report suggested that some further amendment of court guides, and some judicial training, may provide further consistency and familiarity with the procedure of hot-tubbing – "albeit with the overriding caveat that the technique will not be for every case".
The working group was chaired by Professor Rachael Mulheron of Queen Mary University of London and a member of the CJC.
It found that hot-tubbing had been used in a wide variety of cases, from the Court of Protection to competition law.
There were variations on how it was done. In some cases, experts gave evidence back-to-back, while 'pure' hot-tubbing involved the judge-led joint examination of experts.
The report identified "hybrid" versions depending on the role that counsel was permitted to play during the hot-tubbing; different judicial attitudes towards the interaction among expert witnesses whilst they are in the hot-tub; and differences in judicial practice, in that the judge would not always lead the discussion.
Though not strictly within its remit, the working group also looked at the 'teach-in' type approach that has been employed in some cases, which sees the court appoint a 'neutral scientific adviser' to provide a tutorial, or 'teach-in', on the technical issues arising in the case.
In one High Court patent case, the adviser's instructions were settled by the court; she was not informed about the specific issues in the case, but gave 'high-level' assistance; she was asked to prepare materials (primarily Powerpoint slides) to educate the court on five topics; and she met with the judge for one day, for a 'candid discussion'.
The parties and their representatives were not present during the 'teach-in', but were provided with a copy of the relevant papers afterwards, in the interests of transparency. The adviser did not sit in court for the trial itself.
The report said that "perhaps the most interesting, and positive, outcome" of the project – which included surveys of judges, practitioners and experts – was the finding that 83% of judicial respondents considered that the quality of the expert evidence was improved, where it was given via hot-tubbing.
Lawyers were similarly positive, although the figure fell to 60% among experts.
The vast majority of lawyers agreed, as did 71% of experts, although "for those who had been 'hot-tubbed', the experience led to some reservations", the report noted.
Judges and experts also thought hot-tubbing reduced trial length, but lawyers, though a majority agreed, were more sceptical. The more negative views may have been driven by the degree of cross-examination by counsel which was permitted to follow (or even precede) the hot-tubbing, the report said.
However, the final goal of hot-tubbing identified by Sir Rupert Jackson when he recommended it – saving costs – was "the one area where the majority of the legal respondents to the survey seemed to be of one mind", namely it was not really achieving that. The working group suggested more work might be needed to work out why.
The report said: "In the view of the working group, the current PD 35.11 has served an important purpose, in both drawing to the attention of courtroom participants the process of hot-tubbing, and by providing a framework for that process, especially when it was such a novel procedure.
"However… it seems apposite that the PD should be revised to reflect/record that hot-tubbing is but one form of concurrent expert evidence; that sequential, back-to-back, evidence is another important format of concurrent evidence; that the 'teach-in approach' has great benefits for the right type of case; and that, above all, the court may give directions for any of these processes to be used at trial.
The guidance note for judges and practitioners would supplement the revised PD and set out briefly the different ways in which expert opinion evidence can be adduced, and identify factors which might indicate whether a direction for judge-led joint expert examination might be appropriate.


text:
Home Discover ASI About ASI Staff & Contacts Justin Rajah
Justin Rajah
Alumni Council Member
Email Justin
Justin is currently serving as an ASI Alumni Council Member. During his time at Cal Poly, he was a member of the Board of Directors, representing the Orfalea College of Business. Justin's passion for being a part of the community and giving back sparked new experiences and opportunities he never thought were possible. Six years later, the people he met through ASI are still the people he talks to and spends his time with. Post-grad, Justin went straight to work and now is a Marketing Manager who enjoys curating experiences for his customers. He travels a lot for work but appreciates getting to visit new locations all over the world. Outside of the 9-5, Justin continues to try and reach the status of an "influencer," no such luck yet. In addition, he loves binging shows on all 17 different streaming services out there.


Expert Lawyers in the right to be forgotten, data privacy, intellectual property, criminal law, legal<br /> data processing.
We use monitoring and elimination platforms that can be accessed online by the client.
Specialists in SEO and reputation marketing for the analysis and building of online reputation.


I have a select form field that I want to mark as "readonly", as in the user cannot modify the value, but the value is still submitted with the form. Using the disabled attribute prevents the user from changing the value, but does not submit the value with the form.
The readonly attribute is only available for input and textarea fields, but that's basically what I want. Is there any way to get that working?
Instead of disabling the select, disable all of the options and use CSS to gray out the select so it looks like its disabled.
Add a click event handler to the submit button so that it enables all of the disabled dropdown menus before submitting the form.
Where select_name is the name that you would normally give the <select>.
Now with this one, I have noticed that depending on what webserver you are using, you may have to put the hidden input either before, or after the <select>.
If my memory serves me correctly, with IIS, you put it before, with Apache you put it after. As always, testing is key.
I`ve been looking for a solution for this, and since i didnt find a solution in this thread i did my own.
Simple, you just blur the field when you focus on it, something like disabling it, but you actually send its data.
This might help someone understand more, but obviously is less flexible than the jQuery one.
Just add a line before submit.
Based on the solution of the Jordan, I created a function that automatically creates a hidden input with the same name and same value of the select you want to become invalid. The first parameter can be an id or a jquery element; the second is a Boolean optional parameter where "true" disables and "false" enables the input. If omitted, the second parameter switches the select between "enabled" and "disabled".
Another option is to use the readonly attribute.
With readonly the value is still submitted, the input field is grayed out and the user cannot edit it.
How to send the selected value of jQuery select after I have disabled it?
How to set select tag to readonly before ajax success?
How to send the disabled element value to server?
Is it possible to disable a select statement but post the PHP statements?


This event is now over. Complete the form to receive a link to the recorded series. Our five-part, interactive Q&A webinar series will help you think about critical activities required during each stage of your SAP S/4HANA project. This series will walk through the needs aligned with the five critical steps on your journey. We will review key activities, tools, and best practices for each phase as we answer your questions.


Glad to participate in the sale guys! More discount on top of club member's discount!
Is RT performance still trading?
I'm choosing to spend my valuable time replying to my customers instead of giving more reasons for someone with a key board (whom I don't even know) to waste more lines.
What sort of ungrounded statement is this?! You haven't done business with us at all.. Generalising like this is ridiculous.
Hey guys, we still make those but only to go with JDM size plate. If we get 6-8 people interested we can possibly start making them for UK numberplate. Fitting time is down to a bodyshop - we make them looking "factory fitted". Once fitted a genuine chargespeed for a member here and had to spend more time than with our copies PM me for prices if you want one soon! Taras.
Bumper respray needed or excuse to get a front lip?
Does RT-Performance still trade on here?


"Much more than just another connector company, Samtec puts people first with a commitment to exceptional service, quality products, and convenient design tools. We believe that people matter, and taking care of our customers and our employees is paramount in how we approach our business. This belief is deeply ingrained throughout the organization, and means that you can expect exceptional service coupled with technologies that take the industry further faster."


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CONTRACT PERFORMANCE
News Flashes
Copyright © 2006-2019, D3 Air & Space Operations
D3 Air & Space Operations, Inc RED FLAG – RESCUE Site Lead, Cedric Stark, visited AFRL to learn more about LVC Capabilities and the application to RED FLAG – RESCUE.  "This is a game changer, a force multiplier for us, as it increases our ability to integrate distributed joint airpower and enhance our ability to train contested Combat Search and Rescue missions."
More info is available at:
https://afresearchlab.com/news/afrl-demonstrates-lvc-capabilities-during-red-flag-rescue-visit/
Red Flag Rescue
The D3 U-2 Asset Management Program Team is honored to receive the 2019 Logistics Officer Association Trailblazer Award (Small Business Team). The purpose of the Trailblazer Award is to bring recognition for innovative ideas and solutions for the Air Force Logistics and Acquisition enterprise. The 2019 Logistics Officer Association Trailblazer Award was presented in Honor of Maj Gen Marcelite Harris at the 2019 Logistics Officer Association Symposium.
2019 Logistics Award
Sean Doughty will be attending the AFA Air Warfare Symposium February 26-28 in Orlando, FL. "AFA's Air Warfare Symposium is a premier event for the aerospace and defense industry geared toward the professional development of Air Force officers, enlisted members, civilians, retirees, and veterans. The symposium harnesses the Air Force's innovative spirit through sessions focused on innovation and exhibits that highlight the next generation of air, space, and cyber power." This years theme of "Multi-Domain Operations: From Vision to Reality" are at the heart of todays Air Force and the mission of D3 Air & Space Operations.
https://www.afa.org/events/calendar/2020-02-26/air-warfare-symposium.
Air Warfare Symposium
Contract Announcements
Angel Thunder Exercise - Sep 2017
D3ASO is pleased to announce the award of Task Order S413 Angel Thunder Exercise Support.
D3ASO provides services to Detachment One, 414th Combat Training Squadron in support of ACC exercise ANGEL THUNDER and other Personnel Recovery training events for the five stages of an exercise: design, planning, preparation, execution, and evaluation services. Det 1, 414 CTS is responsible for all five exercise stages to run the Department of Defense's only Joint National Training Capability (JNTC) accredited and certified exercise focused solely on the PR mission. D3ASO provides the functional support required to fulfill this task order. The Detachment One contract Professional Control Force (PCF) serve as the Executive Agent for the ANGEL THUNDER Program and is the primary entity to plan and execute the Angel Thunder exercise, as well as all aspects of JNTC Accreditation and Certification and technical compliance of relevant Universal Joint Tasks.
EPS Corporation - GCCS NETCENTS - Aug 2019
NETCENTS2 Global Command and Control (GCCS) and Defense Readiness Reporting System (DRRS) / Air & Space Expeditionary Force Reporting Toll (ART) Operational and Technical Support Services Award.
D3ASO provide specialized contracted GCCS and DRRS/ART operational and technical support services for Air Combat Command (ACC) Directorate of Operations (A3), Operations Division (A3O) and Directorate of Communication (A6), Combat Support Squadron (CSS) in support of ACC's C2 activities.
Florida Department of Management Services - Mar 2017
D3ASO is pleased to announce the award of Information Technology Staff Augmentation Services State Term Contract No. 80101507-SA-15-1 with the Florida Department of Management Services.
D3ASO provides information technology staff augmentation services to the State of Florida. We possess the professional and technical staff necessary to perform the information technology staff augmentation services required by this contract and the staff shall have sufficient skill and experience to perform the services assigned to them.
Providing full service expertise to lead, manage, advise, and staff complex aviation, space and cyber operations.


Check In: 3:00 PM. Check Out: 12:00 PM. Whether you are here for business or leisure, our hotel has everything you will need. Complimentary Wi-Fi will keep you in touch with friends and family. Start your morning off right and enjoy our new healthy options along with our signature hot cinnamon rolls on our Express Start Breakfast Bar.You can always wind down by relaxing in our heated indoor pool and hot tub. Feel free to bring your family pet so they can enjoy the Athens City Dog Park, located directly behind our hotel.


To create lifelong relationships by bettering the lives of all we touch!
We strive to build relationships with all of those that we serve and are dedicated to providing a high level of customer service where solving problems for our patients and providers if of the utmost importance.
Briargrove Pharmacy is an iconic Houston establishment turning customers into friends since 1968. We are your neighborhood pharmacy with compounding services, four full-time Pharmacists and one of the largest Health & Wellness inventories in Houston. We gladly deliver prescriptions right to your door! But we are much more than a Pharmacy.
What makes us truly "special" are the unique, upscale and exciting items you will find in our one-of–a-kind gift shop. We shop the world to find items that will "Wow" our customers and that you can't find anywhere else in Houston.
Brands like Nest and Michael Aram grace our Home Décor shelves while lines like Frank Lyman and PJ Harlow will have you squealing with delight in our dynamic fashion corner. Look no further for the most luxurious Health and Beauty items. With brands like Mason Pearson, Derma Blend, Ahava and Pedigreed line, Caswell-Massey you'll never need to shop big box stores again! For the little ones you'll want to budget for time while shopping our "fun & fancy" toy nook. With brands like Jelly Cat London, Noodle & Boo and Toys Hape you'll want to play all day!
We can't forget to mention that we also offer everyday items, medical supplies, special orders and postal service. There is something for everyone at Briargrove Pharmacy. Fill your prescription, shop, visit and explore. We'll be here waiting for you!


During the weekend of 16-17 December, Collective Çukurcuma – curators of exhibition House of Wisdom – will organise a public program tying into the exhibition theme.
On Saturday the program includes curator tours by Naz Cuguoğlu and Serhat Cacekli (of Collective Çukurcuma) and screenings, presentations and talks by House of Wisdom artists Ali Kazma, Walid Siti and Lauren Alexander (Foundland) on Sunday.
15.30 – 17:00 Curators tour through exhibition House of Wisdom by Naz Cuguoğlu of Collective Çukurcuma.
Click here for day 2 of the 'Collective Çukurcuma invites' program.
7 Hills Foundation was established to promote contemporary art with a focus on Turkey – and surrounding countries – within a global perspective. The organisation's main goal is provide a platform for art and artists to present themselves as they see fit, within the always changing (global) visual languages of our hybridised culture.


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Q: Java Swing JToolBar I have created JToolBar (Java Swing). I have set a Background image on frame which contains JToolBar. I want my JToolBar to be transparent so that the image kept on frame should be visible. I am using setOpaque(false) but it is not having any effect on my toolbar.. Has anyone delt with this before? My Code is as follows
import javax.swing.ImageIcon;
import javax.swing.UIManager;
import javax.swing.UnsupportedLookAndFeelException;

public class NewJFrame extends javax.swing.JFrame {
    static NewJFrame dialog = null;

    /** Creates new form NewJFrame */
    public NewJFrame() {
        initComponents();
        jToolBar1.setOpaque(false);
    }

    /** This method is called from within the constructor to
     * initialize the form.
     * WARNING: Do NOT modify this code. The content of this method is
     * always regenerated by the Form Editor.
     */
    @SuppressWarnings("unchecked")
    // <editor-fold defaultstate="collapsed" desc="Generated Code">
    private void initComponents() {

        jToolBar1 = new javax.swing.JToolBar();

        setDefaultCloseOperation(javax.swing.WindowConstants.EXIT_ON_CLOSE);

        jToolBar1.setRollover(true);

        javax.swing.GroupLayout layout = new javax.swing.GroupLayout(getContentPane());
        getContentPane().setLayout(layout);
        layout.setHorizontalGroup(
            layout.createParallelGroup(javax.swing.GroupLayout.Alignment.LEADING)
            .addComponent(jToolBar1, javax.swing.GroupLayout.DEFAULT_SIZE, 400, Short.MAX_VALUE)
        );
        layout.setVerticalGroup(
            layout.createParallelGroup(javax.swing.GroupLayout.Alignment.LEADING)
            .addGroup(layout.createSequentialGroup()
                .addComponent(jToolBar1, javax.swing.GroupLayout.PREFERRED_SIZE, 25, javax.swing.GroupLayout.PREFERRED_SIZE)
                .addContainerGap(275, Short.MAX_VALUE))
        );

        pack();
    }// </editor-fold>

    /**
    * @param args the command line arguments
    */
    public static void main(String args[]) {
        java.awt.EventQueue.invokeLater(new Runnable() {

            public void run() {

                try {
                    try {
                        // Set cross-platform Java L&F (also called "Metal")
                        UIManager.setLookAndFeel(UIManager.
                                getSystemLookAndFeelClassName());

                    } catch (UnsupportedLookAndFeelException ex) {
                        ex.printStackTrace();
                    }
                } catch (ClassNotFoundException e) {
                    e.printStackTrace();
                } catch (InstantiationException e) {
                    e.printStackTrace();
                } catch (IllegalAccessException e) {
                    e.printStackTrace();
                }
                ImagePanel panel = new ImagePanel(new ImageIcon("image").getImage());
                dialog = new NewJFrame();
                dialog.getContentPane().add(panel);
                dialog.setVisible(true);
            }
        });
    }

    // Variables declaration - do not modify
    private javax.swing.JToolBar jToolBar1;
    // End of variables declaration

}

A: JToolBar creates JButtons to contain the actions you set on it. By default, JButtons are opaque. To get the effect you're describing, you need to override JToolBar.createActionComponent.
For example:
    jToolBar1 = new javax.swing.JToolBar() {
        @Override
        protected JButton createActionComponent(Action a) {
            JButton jb = super.createActionComponent(a);
            jb.setOpaque(false);
            return jb;
        }
    };

Note: YMMV depending on the LAF in use.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


Richmond is a world-class suburb located less than 13 kilometres south of Vancouver in southern British Columbia. It's considered one of the most unique and multicultural areas in the province, and packs many interesting things to do for new residents, including several lush parks, local theaters and spectacular Asian dining.
According to the 2011 Canadian Census, there were just over 190,400 residents living in Richmond, and the city is growing at a steady pace. In fact, the population jolted by more than 9 percent between 2006 and 2011. Richmond is also a densely populated city with more than 1,473 persons per square kilometre. Around 60 percent of Richmond's population is Asian, and there are many people from all walks of life residing here. Richmond also enjoys a wonderful seaside location along the rugged Pacific Northwest coastline.
To get a sense of the maritime history in the area, be sure to plan a visit to the Gulf of Georgia Cannery Historic Site, which traces its roots to 1894 when Richmond and the surrounding areas became world famous for salmon fishing. Close by you will also find the Brittania Heritage Shipyard, a National Historic Site that shows what life was like for locals in the early 20th century.
Arts and culture are well represented in Richmond and include the Japanese-Canadian Cultural Centre, which showcases Japanese arts courses and the International Buddhist Temple.
Exploring the great outdoors is also easy to do in Richmond, as the area boasts 10 city parks. There are around 80 kilometres of interconnected paths that criss-cross through the city for hiking and jogging. Around 1.4 million birds make their migration through the estuary at Terra Nova Park, a must-see for nature lovers.
If you aren't familiar with the terrain in Richmond, you might need the assistance of a Richmond moving company. There are 500 agents across North America with Allied Van Lines that can assist you will all aspects of your trip. Those who are relocating by car have access to Vancouver-Blaine Highway and the East-West Connector, so no matter what direction you are coming from you should be able to find your way around smoothly.
However, if you would rather opt for Allied's vehicle transportation service, you can fly into Vancouver International Airport, which lies just north of the city. There are many other amenities to enjoy with Allied as well, including no-surprise pricing, full-service packing and cleanup services.


Hundreds of young musicians from Georges Vanier SS and Don Valley and Pleasant View Junior High Schools came together for the inaugural One World Arts Gala on June 7 at Georges Vanier to celebrate artistic creation as a force for positive change. The students are part of the One World Youth Arts Project, which recognizes the value of artistic creation and performance as an important medium for change in our world.
Students and staff at the gala were joined by One World alumnus Mohanza 'Obie' Kelly. Obie is a local musician who is a graduate of the project and has gone on to a career in music (including a very successful Canadian Idol experience). He performed original music created in the One World Studios along with some popular R&B standards. The finale featured Obie singing "Lean On Me" accompanied by nearly all of the young musicians from the three participating schools – band, chorus, strings and the One World house band.
The One World Vocal Group, coached by Sharon Backman, performed the national anthem at the Canadian Urban Institute's (CUI) Urban Leadership Awards ceremony on June 14 at the Royal York Hotel. The students were thrilled to meet with guests and honourees such as Mayor David Miller, media icon Moses Znaimer, and president of CUI and former Mayor of Toronto David Crombie.
Along with the premier gala event and participation in the Urban Leadership Awards, the project celebrated the life and vision of Dr. Martin Luther King at the 'Keeping the Dream Alive' celebration in Hamilton. The One World Project is also associated with educational research projects at the University of Toronto, the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education and at Wilfrid Laurier University. One World has been presented at education conferences all over the world by associated graduate students at the University of Toronto, as part of their PhD preparations. Most recently Steve represented Canadian music educators at the prestigious "Tanglewood II International Symposium "Charting the Future," a music symposium on music learning for the 21st century.
The One World Youth Arts Project at Georges Vanier SS utilizes state-of-the-art digital audio recording studios to support student creativity, and the development of personal values.


text:
Маасер (в иудаизме) — десятина, отделяемая согласно Торе от плодов и съедобных растений, выросших на территории Эрец-Исраэль (без этого они были запрещены к употреблению в пищу).

Другой смысл слова «маасер» — это «цдака» (букв. «оказание справедливости»), 10 % от заработка, который еврейский закон предписывает жертвовать на нужды бедняков.

Маасерот — часть урожая, передаваемые Иерусалимскому храму, священникам, левитам, беднякам и т. д. и подразделяется на:

Маасер шени «вторая десятина» — отделялась в первый, второй, четвёртый и пятый годы, считая от последней шмиты и которую необходимо было съесть в Иерусалиме во время праздников.

Маасер они «десятина бедняка» — в третий и шестой годы, которую необходимо было передать бедным.

Трума (ивр. «возношение») — часть урожая, передаваемая священникам.

Маасер ришон — «первая десятина», передаваемая левитам.

Следует отличать, маасер бгема — десятина, которая передавалась Храму, для этих целей отделялось каждое десятое из родившихся с 1-го Элула (начало года в том, что касается возраста домашних животных) кашерных для еды домашних животных.

См. также
 613 заповедей

Примечания

Заповеди в иудаизме
Налоги

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


If your business is farming, we understand it's more than just a livelihood – it's your life.
Just like the weather, it's a life that can be a little changeable.
At Resilium we can't control the elements or market price fluctuations, but we can provide the flexibility and options to deal with many of the 'uncontrollables' that can stop you in your tracks – including machinery breakdowns or loss of feed and stock.
Your local Resilium Adviser can work with you to design a flexible Farm Insurance solution that's tailored for you and your farm. That includes providing convenient payment options and a fast and easy claims service.
So if the wind suddenly changes and the heavens open, you can get back to the land as quickly as possible.
Your legal liability covers for personal injury or damage to property caused by an occurrence connected with your business activities.
Cover for your farm property such as buildings and contents, as well as farm improvements such as windmills and freestanding silos.
Cover for your home and contents against loss or damage as a result of certain specified events such as fire, theft, storm, impact, flash flood and rainwater run-off. Or you can take Accidental Damage cover that protects you against the listed events plus any other event that isn't specifically excluded. This policy also provides an automatic cover of $20 million for Personal Liability anywhere in Australia or New Zealand.
Cover for costs to maintain your business, including loss of income from agistment following damage to business contents, farm property, and machinery.
If any of your insured equipment suffers electrical, electronic or mechanical breakdown, you will receive the cost of repair or replacement.
Cover for the loss or damage to farm product or machinery in transit caused by collisions, overturning, fire, flood and theft. Damage during loading and unloading is also covered as standard.
Your farm contents and towed implements (kept in a shed) are covered for theft as well as damage to farm buildings caused by burglars.
Cover for hay, grain, fencing, livestock and farm trees for damage caused by fire, lightning, earthquake, vandalism and other causes listed in the Product Disclosure Statement.
Covers your machinery for damage caused by incidents such as fire, storm, impact, explosion and malicious acts by other people. Cover is also available for the death of a working dog caused by certain events.
Cover is also available for farm vehicles including tractors, harvesters and sprayers, as well as vehicles used for private purposes.
Your local Resilium Adviser is someone who understands the challenges and opportunities of life on the land, and the range of Farm Insurance options that can make it a whole lot easier for you and your family.
The Farm and Farm Motor Insurance products are distributed by Resilium Pty Ltd on behalf of the insurer, CGU Insurance Limited ABN 27 004 478 371 AFSL 238291.This page sets out general advice in relation to those products, and you should refer to the relevant Product Disclosure Statement before making a decision in relation to the insurance product.


Cultural training: Meant to familiarize a person with the ABC's of living in the United States (and specifically in Texas). We'll cover government, customs, behaviors and cultural norms of Americans to ease the transition to a new country.
Moving-In Services: A relocation consultant will help with arranging the deliveries and various necessities of getting settled into a new home.
Settling-In Services: inlingua's relocation consultant will assist with the next steps of getting acclimated, such as bank accounts, telephone/utility/Internet connections, school inoculations and enrollment, Texas driver's license and all the other little things that can be so daunting on your own.
Area tour: This is the most fun part! Your relocation consultant will take you around to see the major attractions and features of Austin and explain how the various transportation routes work. Lunch provided.


text:
To Out, or Not to Out?
A pair of stories over the past few weeks have me thinking about coming out. More specifically: when is it okay for a public figure to come out on their own terms, versus being forced out?
The first story concerns Robin Roberts, the anchor of ABC's Good Morning America. Although her sexuality's been an open secret for years, she didn't publicly acknowledge it until just before New Years, when she thanked her "long time girlfriend, Amber" in a Facebook post.
The second concerns Rep. Aaron Schock of Illinois. The second-term Congressman has been the subject of gay rumors since winning election to the House, thanks to his good looks and particular fashion tastes. Journalist Itay Hod has created some of the strongest rumors in the past few weeks, though, with a Facebook post about an unnamed Congressman caught in a shower with another man by one journalist, and by TMZ at various gay bars. The post concludes with a link to AMERICAblog's article, "The 7 gayest Aaron Schock Instagram posts of 2013."
If Schock's gay, though, he's doing whatever he can to hide it through his voting record. The HRC assigned Schock a score of "0%" on gay rights issues. He's opposed the repeals of Don't Ask, Don't Tell and DOMA. He supports the Federal Marriage Amendment, and opposes adding sexual orientation to hate crimes laws.
In both of these cases, there are (or were) rumors about a public figure's sexual orientation. Do both have a right to come out on their own terms, or on someone else's?
What it comes down to, in my opinion, is the nature of their public status. In Roberts' case, while she is a public figure, and her coming out has the potential for changing someone's mind about our community, she's also entitled to some privacy in her life. Deciding not to come out publicly may not help us, but in Roberts' case, it also doesn't actively hurt the larger LGBT community.
One comment I've seen mentioned concerns the documenting of her life as she fought breast cancer a few years ago – while family and friends were included in the footage, Amber was conspicuously absent. Roberts hasn't explained it yet, but I have a theory: as much as coming out shouldn't be a huge deal, it is. Having to deal with coming out as a public figure while fighting cancer is probably too much for anyone to bear. On top of that, coming out would likely overshadow Roberts' work on breast cancer awareness, and it's understandable why Roberts wants to focus on the latter.
Schock's case, meanwhile, is very different. His status as a public figure, in combination with his voting record, makes his work against the LGBT community harmful. I don't believe that we should automatically assume that someone who's virulently homophobic is also gay, but if there's evidence that he's a hypocrite, he should be called out. More specifically, if there's concrete proof that journalists have that Schock is gay, it should be brought to the public's attention.
That being said, if we're just going off of rumors we can't verify and stereotypes regarding certain behaviors, we should reevaluate going after Schock and others like him. There's certainly ample room to argue against his voting record without suggesting he's a self-hating gay, if there's no legitimate proof that it's true.
January 15, 2014 July 21, 2014 Elijah SarkesianOpinionDavid Atlanta
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