text:
« Fairfax's Jack Dale on Overhauling the Teaching Profession | Main | Lessons for a Biz Community Ready to Step Up »
When "Anti-Bias Education" Feels a Lot Like Political Hardball
By Rick Hess on June 6, 2011 9:09 AM
I just finished the recently-released second edition of What If All the Kids Are White? Anti-Bias Multicultural Education with Young Children and Families. It reminded me how politicized and stifling edu-world notions of diversity can be.
Authors Louise Derman-Sparks and Patricia Ramsey begin by noting that participants in their workshops often exhibit "a narrow definition of diversity [while] ignoring the many kinds of differences that exist even within racially homogeneous groups." It seems obvious that a room full of white children might have different opinions, ideologies, values, experiences, interests, strengths, weaknesses, family situations, moral upbringings, religious orientations, and such. Why might anyone need a workshop to remind them of this? Oh, right. Maybe it's because an industry of ideologues has crusaded, with much success, to make race an organizing principle for teacher training, edu-policy, and educational delivery.
Think "organizing principle" is too strong? Just a bit later, in making their case for "anti-bias/multicultural (AB/MC) education," Derman-Sparks and Ramsey dismiss out-of-hand those naifs and closet racists who might suggest we're entering a post-racial society. They argue that "people in all groups, including White persons" need to "join the long-term struggle," and that "many activists and theorists engaged in the movement for social justice" think it's "necessary to identify the specific dynamics of 'Whiteness' and the role of White people in challenging racism."
Now, I'm just speculating, but could this grand enthusiasm for treating "White" people as a monolith with "specific dynamics" encourage educators to forget that any room of kids, regardless of race, can be pretty diverse in other, more important ways? And isn't it a little peculiar to decry "ignoring the many kinds of differences that exist even within racially homogenous groups" while seeking "the specific dynamics of 'Whiteness'"?
I've a larger point I want to make about the politicization of this stuff, so I'm not going to review the book. But here's a thumbnail. The first half focuses on "the construction of Whiteness," "White identity," and how to help white kids find a new identity. The second half offers a "short history" of white resistance to racism, a primer on how children learn about racism and "anti-racism," and tips on how teachers can foster children's (and families') "caring and activism."
Derman-Sparks and Ramsey explain the urgency of all this by enthusiastically demonstrating the entrenched nature of American racism. They cite "hate groups and armed anti-government militia groups" (with ominous-sounding "Patriot" groups up 244% from 2008 to 2009), "violence" (with "racial hatred, along with tactics of violence, now appear[ing] in mainstream political discourse and behavior"), "racial bigotry directed at President Obama," and "individual acts of racial bigotry." I was unsurprised to find that their examples frequently implied that conservative criticism of President Obama reflects nothing more than garden-variety racism--with caricatures and heated opposition to health care reform constituting evidence of racist sentiment.
My friends in schools of education and progressive circles sometimes ask me how any reasonable person could have a problem with efforts to combat racism and promote "diversity." I always tell them that I'd be more receptive to such efforts if they didn't so often seem to regard conservative views as little more than the product of ignorance or veiled racism. It would help, too, if the gurus of diversity seemed as interested in heterogeneity of ideas or values as they are in racial categories.
This is sometimes difficult for me to explain clearly. So let me offer an example. During the George Bush presidency, vicious verbal attacks on him were commonplace. (These didn't bother me, though, of course, I was no great fan of Bush.) These criticisms included calls for his assassination and his arrest as a war criminal, as well as hateful caricatures of the President and his family. Such criticisms were celebrated by intellectuals who reminded us that "dissent is the highest form of patriotism." They had a point. After all, hard-hitting critiques of our elected leaders, including hysterical and over-the-top attacks, are a centuries-old American tradition.
Yet, when Derman-Sparks and Ramsey see these same kinds of hurtful attacks mounted against President Obama, they argue, "Aside from whether we agree with President Obama's agenda, we need to ask ourselves what happens when young children see racist images and messages about President Obama." Given that the authors make it plenty clear that they regard Tea Party groups as ipso facto racist and that all but the most genteel criticism of Obama risks being deemed racist, the clear implication is that much opposition to Obama's agenda ought to be understood as illegitimate because it risks poisoning our children's impressionable minds. This starts to feel a lot more like Big Brother than like anti-bias education.
Tellingly, in Appendix B, Derman-Sparks and Ramsey list 31 organizations that teachers should look to for instructional materials, speakers, support, and professional development. As best as I can tell, every single one is a politically active group pushing elements of a relatively expansive liberal agenda. That's fine, of course, it's a free country and all that. Just don't pretend to be shocked when a skeptic views "anti-racist education" as a cloak for a political agenda. So long as that's the way this game is played, it's hard to imagine a self-respecting conservative regarding "anti-racist education" as anything more than an ideological, political exercise. And I hope school board members, university trustees, and legislators keep that in mind when assessing programs and spending.
Special Education Reform That's Great for Students—and the Budget!
Special Education Reform That's Good for Teachers
Special Education Reform Is Entering a New Era
What Kind of Programs Can Help Teacher Diversity?
Use Caution When Measuring School Quality


text:
Curated by humans, not algorithms.
agoodmovietowatch
Most Popular All Movies All Shows Best Films Genre Mood Spotlight
Highly-rated yet little-known movies and shows on streaming
agoodmovietowatch recommends must-watch movies and shows that might have flown under your radar. Curated by humans, not algorithms.
Hide Foreign-Language
More mood
A-list actors
Binge-Worthy
Discussion-sparking
Grown-up Comedy
Heart-warming
Mind-blowing
No-brainer
Slice-of-Life
Thought-provoking
True-crime
True-story-based
Well-acted
Without plot
5 Best Discussion-sparking Movies On Hulu
moodDiscussion-sparkingmovies On hulu
Sorry to Bother You, 2018
In the year of the Netflix TV Show Maniac, another absurdist title stole critics' hearts. Sorry to Bother You is a movie set in an alternate reality, where capitalism and greed are accentuated. Lakeith Stanfield (Atlanta) is a guy called Cassius who struggles to pay his bills. However, when at a tele-marketing job an old-timer tells him to use a "white voice", he starts moving up the ranks of his bizarre society. A really smart movie that will be mostly enjoyed by those who watch it for its entertaining value, and not so much for its commentary. It is like a Black Mirror episode stretched into a movie.
Best of Enemies, 2015
Do you know that euphoric feeling you get when you watch a smart, eloquent person talk about important ideas? Multiply that by two in Best of Enemies.This 2015 documentary traces the debates between two of the brightest intellectuals around the Nixon and Reagan eras. Gore Vidal and William F. Buckley couldn't be more opposed to each other in ideas and values. One is an ardent liberal, who wrote books and movies around gay sex (back in the 1960s), female empowerment, and the fall of the so-called American Empire. The second is an elitist and a Republican guided by Christian values and status quo ideals.ABC put them together as commentators the 1968 presidential debates, and as such, they would change the future of talk-show TV forever. They both considered debating a sport, and they both were the best in their craft. It's so, so entertaining to watch them spar with each other. They despised each other, I know that's not something I should be proud of enjoying, but I did. These debates were not so much a clash of tepid arguments but more of a clash of geniuses.
Why this is necessary. Already subscribed? Sign in
Subscriber-Only Suggestion
The Square, 2017
The Square is a peculiar movie about a respected contemporary art museum curator as he goes through a few very specific events. He looses his wallet, his children fight, the art he oversees is does not make sense to an interviewer... Each one of these events would usually require a precise response but all they do is bring out his insecurities and his illusions about life. These reactions lead him to very unusual situations. A thought-provoking and incredibly intelligent film that's just a treat to watch. If you liked Force Majeure by the same director, The Square is even better!
We Need to Talk About Kevin, 2012
Adapted from the Lionel Shriver novel of the same name, We Need to Talk About Kevin is the story of a mother (Tilda Swinton) that never quite bonds with her child, but not by her choice. The son grows up to do a heinous act that begs the question: nature or nurture? This film is an uncompromising view on the development of an unloved child. Silent pain gets voice. Feelings are shown by actions not emotions in an authentic, comprehensible and aesthetic manner. Great work.
Also see: Best Films
Best Films are our staff picks, they're all movies rated 8.0 and above. Here, we selected three for you.
The Diving Bell and the Butterfly, 2007
Directed by celebrated artist-turned-filmmaker Julian Schnabel, The Diving Bell and the Butterfly is the true story of French journalist and fashion editor Jean-Dominique Bauby (Mathieu Amalric), who suffered a devastating stroke at the age of 43. Almost completely paralyzed by what is termed "Locked-in Syndrome", Bauby was left with only the operation of his left eye intact, leaving him forced to communicate via partner-assisted scanning (selection of each letter of the alphabet via blinking). Ultimately, Bauby employed this painstaking procedure to dictate his own memoir "Le Scaphandre et le Papillon", which became a number one bestseller in Europe. The film alternates between Bauby's interaction with his visitors and caretakers (including the dictation of his book) and his own dream-like fantasies and memories of his life prior to paralysis. With the title, Bauby uses the diving bell to represent his self-perceived state of isolation, akin to a deep-sea diver encased in an oxygenated chamber, and the corresponding butterfly to represent the freedom he enjoys as he often journeys quite magically through his own mind's eye. It's a somber yet engaging film full of heart and vision, featuring wonderful performances by the entire cast across the board.
Booksmart, 2019
If you liked Superbad, you will love Booksmart. It's a funny coming-of-age movie about two best friends who embark on one last crazy night before their high-school ends. Sounds like something you've seen before? Don't worry, it's not. This movie might be for fans of smart coming-of-age comedies, but it's very different from them. It's current, creating situations and premises for jokes that haven't been explored before, ranging from taking a Lyft and finding out the driver is their school principal; to mistakenly connecting to his car's sound system while trying to get educated on how two women have sex. The girls in Booksmart are overachieving, fiercely supportive of each other, and yet in the right context, ready to let go and have fun. In short, their endearing attitude makes this movie not only funny but extremely likely to charm your socks off.
The Wrestler, 2008
Darren Aronofsky delivers yet another unforgettable allegory, starring Mickey Rourke as Randy "The Ram" Robinson, an aging professional wrestler long past his prime. He is struggling to retain a sense of identity, purpose and dignity. The audience can see in Rourke the story of all men, that we will one day grow old, regret mistakes that it's too late to fix, and mourn the end of our successes.
That's all for the 5 Best Discussion-sparking Movies On Hulu. Move to the latest movies Move to the latest shows
Made Possible by the European Union and our premium newsletter subscribers. Join the list.
agoodmovietowatch, all rights reserved. Highly-rated yet little-known movies and shows.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


text:
Breaking Down Breaking Bad's Breakout Season
The critics love it. People with some of the most sophisticated TV taste I know swear by it. It's got an Emmy-winning star, a network on the rise and subject matter so edgy it's almost too sharp to handle. So how does Breaking Badfare when evaluated by a slightly prissy TV nerd with a fondness for metaphorical mythology and inspiring characters? It's a bit of a mixed bag.
Let me start off with the regretable news that while I recognize Bryan Cranston's performance as Walter White as inspired, I find, in the character himself, nothing to root for. Walt, a pitiful creature who's been supposedly pushed to his breaking point ("breaking" point- get the clever clever joke?), always leaves me feeling a mix of frustration and anger at his complete ineptitude at life. Sure the man's been dealt a couple unfortunate hands, but he's a genius for crying out loud, he should be able to cope with the world without shrivelling into a pathetic little grey ball.
But it's not often that I like the protagonist of any story, I'm much more a sucker for the colourful sidekicks, complex villains and loyal posse people that fill out a show. Unfortunately for Walt, his family and friends aren't much help. Walt's well-intentioned wife (played by Anna Gunn) is little more than window dressing, both pushy and preachy in typical and annoying ways. Their in-laws, Marie and Hank, are even worse, serving mostly as grating comic relief and weak fifth business (Hank is a DEA agent who sometimes seems like he maybe might someday consider possibly entertaining the idea that it is not completely out of the realm of possibility that Walt may be somehow involved in suspicious activities). The only engaging member of the White family is Walter Jr (played by RJ Mitte). A relatively well-adjusted teenager with cerebral palsy, Walter Jr is the only character in the group who seems to know how to stand up for himself without delivering a sermon. I was convinced that the "intervention" scene was one of the worst I'd ever seen until the adults finally shut up and gave Walter Jr "the talking pillow".
Youth seems to be the saving grace of Breaking Bad, because as much as I don't care about Walt and his plight, I find myself completely (and unexpectedly) on board with that of Jesse: the drug dealing, hooker frequenting, high school dropout meth-head whom Walt teams up with. As played by Aaron Paul, Jesse is not only complex and entertaining but also sympathetic. Jesse injects (pun intended) some much needed heart into the show and gives me someone to care about.
Ultimately, Breaking Bad has it's moments. There were times throughout season 1 when I was so engaged that I didn't notice the time ticking by, and there were others when I sat looking at the screen and thinking "that was some brilliant writing" or "now that's good sound editing". But then there were the moments when I remembered just how much I hate Walter White and almost everyone he knows, and those times when I was looking at my watch and wishing I was watching anything else.
So, once again, I'm going to have to contradict all those high-minded critics who only seem to watch TV shows that no one's ever heard of and give Breaking Bad just a B grade. It is, after all, on the breaking point of greatness, just missing a couple key ingredients.
Written by: Kelly Bedard
Published: Friday, 2009/01/02 - 7:24
Highlights from Corona Cold Reads


Walter Ward, director of communications for Major League Baseball's Atlanta Braves, died May 8 following a long battle with cancer, Turner Broadcasting System Inc. said Tuesday.
The 42-year-old Ward had been with Turner since 1996, and was the former director of public relations for Turner Network Television and TBS Superstation.
Prior to his stint at Turner, Ward worked for Showtime Networks Inc. in Los Angeles and had handled personal and event publicity clients for PR shops Baker/Winokur/Ryder and Michael Levine Public Relations, both Los Angeles.
He held a bachelor's degree in economics from Wake Forest University.
Donations in Ward's memory can be made to M.D. Anderson Cancer Center or the University of Texas Medical Center, both in Houston, Texas.


, we picks the very best libraries together with ideal image resolution simply for you all, and this pictures is actually among images selections in this best pictures gallery concerning Elegant Well House Plans. I am hoping you can want it.
published by admin in 2017-12-21 10:25:09. To view just about all photos in Elegant Well House Plans graphics gallery remember to follow this web page link.


Wedding Bliss - Manuel's Hair Ltd.
Manuel's Hair Ltd. has a professional team of stylists and make-up artists to assist you and your wedding party on your special day. We can go on location to where you will say "I DO" or we offer our entire salon to you and your wedding party with a "Bliss Brunch." Let our stylists make your dreams a reality.


It's a category the new bedfellows, following last year's merger between Lex and Lloyds TSB Autolease, have both tasted success in previously, as the latter toppled Lex last year to take top honours.
Lex Autolease, as the merged company is branded, currently has nearly 340,000 cars under its control, far exceeding the 122,000 held by the UK's number two leasing firm LeasePlan, although Lex Autolease's number will fall slightly as the two businesses align and settle down following the merger.
Like most leasing companies, Lex Autolease has witnessed a fall in the average emissions of its cars as businesses seek more efficient options. Last year's average figure was 152g/km, down from 2008's 158g/km, and the company said it delivered more than 30,000 cars under 121g/km over the 12 months to October 2009.
Under the management of Nigel Stead (above), previously managing director of Lloyds TSB Autolease, the job of taking the two massive leasing companies and turning them into one will continue. But in the meantime, it's congratulations on a job so far well done.


Biochemists have developed a new titanium-reinforced lettuce, which is over fifty times stronger than regular varieties.
Thin veins of metal are interlaced with the leaves to provide high-tensile strength without compromising the plant's natural flexibility.
This will make for hardier salads and can be used in the packed lunches of people with dangerous and high risk jobs, such as racing car drivers or stuntmen. It will also protect the crop from pests such as slugs and snails, as the reinforced leaves will wear the little bastards' teeth down.


Where to stay around Orera?
Our 2019 accommodation listings offer a large selection of 10 holiday lettings near Orera. From 2 Houses to 6 Bungalows, find unique self catering accommodation for you to enjoy a memorable stay with your family and friends. The best place to stay near Orera for a long holiday or a weekend break is on HomeAway.
Can I rent Houses in Orera?
Can I find a holiday accommodation with pool in Orera?
Yes, you can select your preferred holiday accommodation with pool among our 2 holiday homes with pool available in Orera. Please use our search bar to access the selection of holiday rentals available.


text:
Find Professional Auto Detailing, OEM Service, Name Brand Tires, and More at Mercedes-Benz of Grapevine
At Mercedes-Benz Grapevine, we offer all the services needed to keep your vehicle performing at the highest level and looking like new for as long as you want to drive. We offer professional auto detailing to keep your vehicle shining for every mile ahead around Grapevine. Our tire center offers all the name brand tires that fit your Mercedes-Benz vehicle and your preferred driving style, allowing you to maintain the utmost traction, handling, and control wherever you go. When your vehicle needs to be serviced, you can make the quick trip from Southlake and we'll address any issues...
Categories: Service, Parts
Find Your Next Electric Vehicle in the Luxurious New Mercedes-Benz EQS Lineup
Are you shopping for a unique new electric luxury car that stands out from the pack? The all-new Mercedes-Benz EQS lineup is designed to separate itself from all other electric luxury vehicles by offering state-of-the-art EV engineering, a sporty hatchback design, and a sophisticatedly elegant interior for you and your passengers to relax and enjoy the ride in.
Categories: News, Finance, New Inventory
Five Benefits of Buying a New Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Van
Are you shopping for a new van for work or recreation? Whatever your needs are, we're sure that we have a new Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van that's right for you at Mercedes-Benz of Grapevine. Choosing a new Sprinter van is an ideal option for any occupation or activity. From electricians and carpenters to campers and cross-country adventurers, there's a new Sprinter van for everyone. To help you understand what makes choosing a new Sprinter van such a good fit for you, we're going to highlight five key benefits that choosing a Sprinter van can offer.
Categories: New Inventory
Introducing the Redesigned Upcoming 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Lineup
Forget everything you knew about the Mercedes-Benz C-Class lineup of the past. For 2022, the upcoming C-Class lineup is completely redesigned, offering a level of modernity and sophistication never seen before in a C-Class model. With bolder exterior styling, a futuristic cabin that's filled with state-of-the-art features, and a stronger and more efficient performance than ever before, there's something for everyone in Grapevine to get excited about in the upcoming 2022 C-Class lineup.
The Differences Between a Used and Certified Pre-Owned Mercedes-Benz
As any driver can attest, getting the maximum value for your dollar is paramount when getting ready to upgrade your ride. In recent years, the luxury vehicle market has made itself more accessible to a wide range of drivers around Grapevine thanks to a diverse range of used and certified pre-owned Mercedes-Benz models that are available now at our dealership.
Categories: Pre-Owned Inventory
How You Can Make the Most of Your Mercedes-Benz Infotainment System with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
These days, drivers in and around Grapevine love to stay connected. Our smartphones are always with us, allowing us to update the latest news of our lives the instant it happens, all while giving us an instant connection to just about anything you can imagine. Hence, it comes as no surprise that a world-class auto manufacturer such as Mercedes-Benz would find a way to integrate your smart devices into its diverse lineup of luxury sedans and SUVs.
2021 Mercedes-Benz Models for Sale Now in Grapevine, TX
At Mercedes-Benz of Grapevine, we are proud to offer the widest and most comprehensive selection of brand-new Mercedes-Benz luxury vehicles in the region. If you are in the market for a stylish, high-performance luxury SUV or sedan, we have you covered with an expansive range of brand-new Mercedes-Benz models! Visit our new model showcase on Texan Trail in Grapevine, TX, today for an exclusive look at everything we have to offer! Our sales associates are excited to work with you and help you find your new luxury vehicle.
What's the Future of Mercedes-Benz Hybrid and Electric Vehicles?
Over the years, Mercedes-Benz has been at the forefront of the hybrid luxury car segment, implementing revolutionary technology and engineering to provide drivers all over the world with the same Mercedes-Benz performance that they've come to known, combined with greater fuel economy and less of a footprint on the earth. While some Mercedes-Benz hybrid vehicles have come and gone, the future looks to fully electric vehicles and Mercedes-Benz continues to lead the way for innovation.
Categories: News, New Inventory
new Mercedes-Benz models mercedes-benz of grapevine Mercedes-Benz Electric Vehicles Android Auto Mercedes-Benz EQS Certified Pre-Owned Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-Benz detailing 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Mercedes-Benz servicing Mercedes-Benz Hybrid vehicles upcoming Mercedes-Benz models Mercedes-Benz Tires Mercedes-Benz EQ Technology Features new mercedes-benz sprinter vans MBUX Sprinter vans Apple CarPlay Sprinter Vans in Grapevine


The exercise of flipping RV axles leveled our rig back out and increased the bed to 5W space.
The act of flipping RV axles widened the narrow space between the 5W and the top of the truck bed that made me awful nervous. It also got the 5W back to a level attitude when hitched up.
Just pulling out of a filling station or some other driveway was a nervous situation because the tail of the truck always went right up tight against the floor of the fifth wheel. That was one of the reasons I put the flatbed on the old '98.
But, liking the way this new 3500 dually looks, I wanted to try and improve the way it goes together. So I decided to just do an RV axle flip.
So just before we took off on the first long haul with the new tow vehicle, I had Jolley Rodger, up in Cheyenne, do the flipping rv axles dance.
Now," flipping RV axles " doesn't mean you actually turn the axles over. What actually happens is the springs, which are normally mounted below the axles, are moved to a mounting position on top of the axles.
In addition to doing the " flipping RV axles " thing on our fiver, I had to drop the pin box a couple holes as well. Not a real big deal, except that that thing is HEAVY!
I used a saddle stand from my old shop to support the box under the ball socket as I worked it into the new position. Took just a few minutes. No big deal.
On our rig we gained approximately 3 1/2 inches of increased space (between the truck bed and the 5W) when I lowered the pin box.
Combined with flipping the RV axles, that also sets the rig pretty level when it's hitched up. It had been setting just a trifle high in front.
One thing. It was a little too easy (In my opinion) to pop those pin box bolts loose. I hadn't ever checked them with a wrench. Big fault on my part!
I would suggest, as a part of your regular maintenance schedule, that you check, with a torque wrench, the tightness of all your hitch bolts, every month or so, no matter what style of hitch you use.
Having those suckers come loose on a rough road, on an otherwise glorious RV Boondocking trip would be a bad thing! ....... "Gee Martha, doesn't that look like our Fifth Wheel rolling across that cornfield all by itself?"
That and the hitch is starting to look a little shabby isn't it? Soon as the weather permits I'm going to have to do a little painting to shine it up a mite. It takes a lot of weather out there in front like it is!
We pulled a bit over 2,000 miles to Wisconsin and back, in hellatious wind, and some clankity bang rough roads. There was no handling change that I could detect, positive or negative, from the flipped axles.
The only change was that I had a lot more leeway breaking over driveway aprons and such with the increased space.
It cost a little over $300 for me to get the work done. They had to rework shock mounts and a couple other little things. So while I wouldn't consider it inexpensive, it sure beats the cost of getting a busted bed repaired!
Keep the shiny side up, see ya RV Boondocking!
Though it was mentioned to me that the 'shock mounts' had been fiddled with... I've come to realize that the 'fiddling' was only done on the lower end of the shocks.
Recently, the lower nut, on the curb side, rear shock worked its way off, the shock came loose, bending the lower shaft of the shock absorber... forcing me to replace both shocks on the rear axle.
It was during that shock absorber replacement that I discovered that a goodly amount of the shock travel was used up in compressing the shocks into the 'after market' position.
If you do an RV axle flip on your rig... make sure you look at how the shocks are going to be remounted and get those upper mounts tinkered with a bit if necessary.
Otherwise... we've hauled many thousands of miles... including 6-8 thousand with a 500+lb V Star Motorcycle hangin' on the tail end with not one issue... just one busted shock absorber... and that 'cause a nut came loose.


In this landmark photography publication and accompanying exhibition celebrating the 70th anniversary of the renowned photo agency, Clément Chéroux and Clara Bouveresse demonstrate how Magnum Photos owes its preeminence to the ability of its photographers to encompass and navigate the points between photography as art object and photography as documentary evidence.
Magnum Manifesto is organized into three parts: Part 1, Human Rights and Wrongs (1947-1968), views the Magnum archive through a humanist lens, focusing on postwar ideals of commonality and utopianism. Part 2, An Inventory of Differences (1969-1989), shows a world fragmenting, with a focus on subcultures, minorities, and outsiders. Part 3, Stories About Endings (1990-present day), charts the ways in which Magnum photographers have captured—and continue to capture—a world in flux and under threat.
Featuring both group and individual projects, this volume includes magazine spreads, newspaper features, and letters, putting some of the world's most recognizable images in creative context. Magnum Manifesto is an expertly curated, essential collection of images and commentary.


text:
Q: pyplot.imshow() data selection i am using pyplot.imshow() to plot the color map of a galaxy, the data is a 50x50 array (2500 spectral pixels) for a data cube, but the galaxy itself only spans a small portion of the frame at an angle, i would like to apply an elliptical aperture onto the frame (at (25,25) ) and select only the data within the ellipse as the data outside the galaxy is quite noisy, so far i have only been able to apply a square aperture, below is what i have done.
def distribution(infile):

hdulist = pf.open(infile)
HaS=hdulist['HALPHA'].data[0, l, :][:, l]
#l is the width of the square aperture, l=50 means full frame

py.figure().suptitle('%s'%(infile))
py.imshow(HaS,interpolation='gaussian')
py.xlabel('Continuum')
py.colorbar()

here is the plot i have, i wish to apply an ELLIPTICAL aperture, is there any python functions for that?

A: Maybe not exactly what you need, but here is something to consider:
I have created a sample 2d distribution (galaxy)
x=linspace(-100,100, 1000)
y=linspace(-100,100, 1000)

x,y=meshgrid(x,y)
f=exp(-(x**2+y**2)/70**2)
imshow(f)

Then you can apply your filter:
f[(x**2+y**2)<10**2]=0

After that everything inside the circle with radius 10 will become 0 (I guess you can also copy the data somewhere):

Hope this helps

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


text:
Updated Casinos
Casino Bonus Package
Extra Spins Bonus
Free Play Bonus
Mobile UK Casino Bonuses
Free Online Blackjack
Free Online Craps
Real Money Craps
Free Online Video Poker
Real Money Video Poker
Free Online Baccarat
Real Money Baccarat
Free Online Poker
Real Money Gin Rummy
Vegas Games
For Available Offers
New players only, T&C apply, 18+, Gamble responsibly. Advert.
Get My bonus Review
50 Slots Spins Bonus
50 NETENT SPINS
+100% up to £100 Bonus!
120 Slots Spins Bonus
Code: WELCOMEBONUS
£200 Welcome Bonus
Code: WELCOMENB
Quick and convenient payments can be made using the ecoPayz service, which allows users to deposit and withdraw at many popular online casino sites
Top ecoPayz Online Casinos
Review 9.8 Visit Site
WELCOMENB
Review 9 Visit Site
ecoPayz give players from the UK and beyond, a secure, reliable and quick solution to paying funds into an online casino account. It's not just casinos that welcome this popular e-wallet however, as it can be used at a vast range of online stores, or customers can send money to banks around the world. It's a flexible option which has been around in its current form since 2013, although the company has been operating since 2000.
Anyone can sign up to get an ecoPayz card, without any credit checks needed. Once approved, the e-wallet is topped up via the users preferred method and the funds can then be spent as they wish, without the need to give any financial details out. It's simple, convenient and welcomed in 173 countries.
The History Of ecoPayz
The original ecoCard was launched in 2000, which makes it one of the longest-running e-wallets available. In 2008, the company became fully licensed and regulated by the Financial Services Authority (FSA) in the UK and has been authorised to issue electronic money under the strict terms required by UK laws. In 2009, they became a member of the MasterCard network, with approval to provide their own card under the MasterCard service.
A major relaunch in 2013 saw ecoCard replaced by ecoPayz. Based in Horsham, England, the parent company, PSI-Pay, continues to grow and now offers business solutions, virtual cards, and the ecoVoucher prepaid service.
Opening An ecoPayz Account
It takes just a few minutes to get started, with photo ID and a recent utility bill needed to verify new account holders. There's no need to enter bank details, which is a major benefit for those people who don't like to give out financial information. Customers will be asked to create a secure username, password and an email address which are then used to confirm their account.
Once an ecoPayz card has been approved, it can be loaded with funds in a number of ways. Customers who use credit or debit cards will have to have their card verified by a very small payment being made to it. By confirming to ecoPayz how much was transferred, the card will be verified as belonging to the customer and can then be used to add funds to an ecoPayz account.
Bank transfers Giropay, Visa, MasterCard, American Express, paysafecard, iDeal, Poli, Union Pay, Yandex Money and iDebit are among the many options that can be used to add cash to an ecoPayz card. Not all of these services can be used in all countries, but the company website is a great help in deciding what's best. They also have 24/7 customer support, so getting signed up and ready to use a card is a pretty straightforward process.
How To Use ecoPayz
The first thong to do is find an online casino that accepts ecoPayz. It's perhaps not as widely accepted as major credit or debit cards, but there's still a good selection, especially among UK-based casinos. Players just head over to the Cashier, or Banking section of their chosen site and hit the 'ecoPayz' option.
On-screen instructions will then guide them through the deposit process, but it's usually just a simple matter of entering the username and password connected to their ecoPayz account and as an additional security measure, a one-time code will be issued. All that's then left to do is for players to choose how much to pay in. Because this is a prepaid e-wallet and not linked to a bank account or credit card, there's no risk of overspending. The amount loaded onto the card is the maximum amount that can be paid in.
This also means that the funds are guaranteed to clear, so the casino will usually credit a players' account right away. There's no need to wait for a bank to approve the transaction and no credit checks are required. It's another major advantage of using cards like this, and of course, it's not just casinos that accept ecoPayz. It can be used a wide range of online merchants, with funds instantly clearing and purchases approved in no time at all.
Taking Funds Back Out
Unlike some e-wallets, players can have funds returned directly to their ecoPayz card. The process is just as easy, and they will be able to withdraw some, or all of their casino account balance to the card. There's often a period when the casino will hold the funds in a 'pending' status before returning them to players, but this is standard procedure and common to most withdrawal requests, via most payment services.
A Moment To Look At Fees
No online money transfer service is completely free, as the providers need to make a profit somehow, but ecoPayz is broadly in line with other options such as Skrill and NETELLER. The exact fees will vary from country to country and can be amended over time. Generally speaking, there's a charge for loading the card by bank transfers, cards, or other e-wallets, or moving funds back to a bank. The ecoPayz website features the latest details.
These can often be off-set by taking advantage of the special offers and promotions run with partners of ecoPayz, although once again, these change frequently and a look at the company website is the way to discover the latest deals.
Quick, Secure, And Convenient
Security is all-important to players and casinos alike. ecoPayz features the combination of usernames, passwords and single-use codes to ensure that the right person is using the card. Customers details are not shared with anyone, which adds a layer of protection against spyware, hackers, or any other mis-use of their accounts.
All transactions are encrypted over 265-bit Secure Socket Layer (SSL) systems, which in plain English means that the right funds will be sent to the right place each and every time. That applies to transfers made on desktop computers as well as those made over the ecoAccount mobile app. This allows customers to complete movements of funds to and from iPhones, Android and Windows-powered smartphones or tablet computers.
ecoPayz Online Casinos
Bet On Aces
Casino Dukes
Casoola Casino
Hippodrome Casino
Joreels Casino
Kassu Casino
NetBet Online Casino
O'Reels Casino
PlayOJO Casino
Slots Magic Casino
Snabbis Casino
Spela Casino
TonyBet Casino
Trada Casino
VIKS Casino
Would you like to learn more? Visit the following link for more details and information: ecopayz.com.
American Express Debit
Yes! I want to know about exclusive bonuses, promotions, and news.
Online Casino Reports
OnlineCasinoReports UK
onlinecasinoreports.co.uk ©2021


TBILISI: The Summer of Frozen Fountains by Georgian director Vano Burduli will be released in Georgia and Estonia on 21 January 2016.
The film had its world premiere at the 19th Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival (13-29 November 2015) and was also screened at the 16th Tbilisi International Film Festival (30 November-6 December 2015).
The Summer of Frozen Fountains is a Georgian/Russian coproduction between Studio 29+7, Film Company CTB, and Producing Centre Gemini. The film was supported by the Georgian National Film Center.
The film covers three days of the city life of Tbilisi residents of different ages, different social status and different professions. The cast includes Georgian and foreign actors: Andrius Paulavicius, Nutsa Kukhianidze, Ia Sukhitashvili, Dati Khrikadze, Giorgi Nakashidze, Nato Murvanidze and Dato Darchia.
Studio 29+7 is handling the sales.


text:
Kristan Marie Bulger and Gabriel Michael Laramay
Friday, September 17, 2010 - 10:10 am
MASSENA – Herrick and Joan Bulger of Massena are proud to announce the marriage of their daughter, Kristan Marie Bulger of Massena to Gabriel Michael Laramay of Louisville, Saturday, July 3, 2010 at 2 p.m. at New Testament Church, Massena, with Pastor Donald Curry officiating.
The groom is the son of Michael and Michele Laramay of Louisville.
Church music was provided by Brandon King (pianist), Jae Jae Lombardo (singer), Chris Lincoln (singer), and Joe Hazelton (singer).
The bride's matron of honor was Emily Love, best friend of the bride.
Other attendants were bridesmaids Brittany Groebler, Michelle Mattison, Kerry LaDue, and Meghan Curry, all friends of the bride.
The flower girl was Hayleigh Armstrong, niece of the bride.
The groom's best man was Zac Laramay, brother of the groom.
His groomsmen were Timothy Bulger, brother of the bride, Patrick Bulger, brother of the bride, Ethan Laramay, brother of the groom, and Marcus Laramay, brother of the groom.
The junior groomsman was Myles Laramay, brother of the groom.
The ring bearer was Nolan Hurlbut, cousin of the groom.
The reception was held at Dar's Restaurant at the Quality Inn, Massena. Music was provided by Harmony Entertainment.
The bride's gown, bridesmaid dresses, and all tuxes came from the Carol Lee Shoppe in Potsdam. The bride's veil was made by Kathy Serviss, aunt of the bride. Church decorations were made by Tina Hatch, aunt of the bride. Flowers were from the Floral Gallery located in Massena, NY. The cake was made by family friend, Elaine Cardinal and pictures were taken by family friend, Ryan Brink.
The couple honeymooned in Las Vegas, Nev.
They will now reside in Theresa.
The bride received a bachelor of arts in Biology, and a master of science in teaching in childhood education 1-6 from SUNY Potsdam.
The groom has an associate's degree in electrical engineering technology from SUNY Canton and is employed as a drafting technician by Brookfield Power.


text:
George Santos partied in drag over a 3-year period, new videos appear to show, despite his suggestion it was a one-off
Business Insider 4 days ago jzitser@businessinsider.com (Joshua Zitser)
© Win McNamee/Getty Images Rep. George Santos leaves the US Capitol on January 12, 2023 in Washington, DC. Win McNamee/Getty Images
George Santos initially denied dressing in drag before admitting that he did it for fun at a festival.
Newly surfaced videos suggest that he may have made appearances in drag over a period of three years.
Videos and photos, spanning 2005 to 2008, appear to show Santos as his drag persona Kitara Ravache.
Rep. George Santos, who initially denied claims that he performed as a drag queen, later appeared to admit that he once had fun at a festival dressing as a woman.
Recently surfaced videos, however, seem to suggest that Santos dressed as his drag persona over a period of at least three years, casting doubt on his claim that it was a one-off occurrence.
The allegations of Santos performing in drag first emerged last week, when freelance journalist Marisa Kabas broke the story in a Substack post.
Kabas spoke to Eula Rochard, a drag queen and former friend of the embattled congressman, who shared a photo appearing to show Santos in a red feathered dress, jewelry, and a black wig.
—Marisa Kabas (@MarisaKabas) January 18, 2023
Rochard said the photo was taken in 2008 at the Pride Parade at Icaraí Beach in Niterói, a city next to Rio de Janeiro, close to where Santos was living at the time.
Rochard later shared more photos of what appears to be Santos in drag, telling Kabas that she met him when he was a teenager and knew him as Anthony Devolder, two of his given names, and Kitara Ravache, his drag name.
Santos initially denied the allegation of being a drag queen, writing on Twitter: "The most recent obsession from the media claiming that I am a drag Queen or 'performed' as a drag Queen is categorically false."
However, the congressman later appeared to confirm the authenticity of the photos, while rejecting the label.
He told reporters: "I was not a drag queen. I was young and I had fun at a festival. Sue me for having a life."
—Molly Jong-Fast (@MollyJongFast) January 22, 2023
But videos from before 2008 have started to emerge, suggesting that Santos may have made appearances in drag more regularly than he is letting on.
The New York Post shared a video of what appears to be Santos at Niterói's first pride parade, in 2005, speaking in Portuguese to a reporter about all of the gay venues he had performed in.
The journalist in the video, Joâo Fragah, told NBC News that he was very confident that Santos was the person he interviewed.
—Luciana Rosa (@lurosa) January 20, 2023
The person in the video is wearing sunglasses and a black dress, a description that matches what Rochard told Reuters Santos used to wear at the time.
Rochard told the news agency that in 2005 Santos was a "poor" drag queen who usually dressed in a simple black dress.
At the time, Santos would have been around 17. A Wikipedia page accessed by Politico showed a user named Anthony Devolder, a name used by Santos, editing an entry to say that he had started out at "age 17 as an gay night club DRAG QUEEN."
Another video published by the Brazilian current affairs show Fantástico on Monday reportedly shows Santos wearing a red feathered dress at Niterói Gay Parade in 2007.
—Samuel Pancher (@SamPancher) January 23, 2023
Videos and photos, spanning from 2005 to 2008, indicate that Santos may have been dressing in drag at events for several years, despite his denial that he was ever a drag queen.
Insider contacted Santos for comment but did not immediately receive a response.
Santos, who is gay, has received criticism for his drag-queen past after he has increasingly aligned himself with far-right GOP lawmakers, some of whom have accused drag queens of grooming children.
He also supported Florida's Parental Rights in Education bill, which critics have labeled the "Don't Say Gay" bill — legislation that aims to restrict the teaching of sexual orientation and gender issues in kindergartens and elementary schools.
Santos has been accused of lying about his past, including fabricating elements of his employment history, education, and his mother being present at 9/11.
Go to MSN Home
Memphis councilman breaks down in tears over bodycam footage of the beating of Tyre Nichols: 'This wasn't supposed to happen'
Body cam footage of Tyre Nichols' fatal beating was released Friday. But many fear video will do more harm than good.
Ukraine says Russia's putting inflatable tanks on the battlefield — but the decoys deflated
View the full site
Microsoft Store Offers - Sponsored
The Highest Paying Cash Back Card Is Finally Here
This Stock Could Be Like Buying Amazon in 1997
Savvy Americans are moving their money to these banks
These are the best mortgage rates in your area
© 2023 Microsoft Privacy & Cookies Terms of use About our Ads Feedback Help MSN Blog About Us Editorial Standards Your California Privacy Choices


This is by no means exhaustive. It can be used to help others who want to know what can be done for our little ones.
Aaron is a 25 month old male with full Trisomy 18 diagnosed prenatally.
He was born via C-section at 37 weeks, 2 days due to persistent heart decelerations with delayed recovery. He was not breathing at birth. Resuscitated via bagging and placed on CPAP machine as intubation was difficult. He weighed 2228 grams. Was weaned, with difficulty to nasal cannula and discharged to home at 16 days with an apnea monitor. Utah Valley Regional Medical Center, Provo, Utah.
At 4 weeks he was admitted to Primary Children's Medical Center in Salt Lake City, Utah (PCMC) for moderate cardiac impairment. Treated with IV milrinone and lasix and put on high-flow nasal cannula. Transitioned back to regular nasal cannula, and to enteral digoxin and lasix and discharged 10 days later with the addition of a pulse/ox machine. Digoxin was discontinued at four months and lasix at 7 months.
At 2 months, Aaron weighed 2.9 kg. He had his last central apneic episode (noted by absence of breathing, bradycardia, and O2 desat) at 2 months, 2 days. He was current on immunizations and was on ng tube feedings. He was a known CO2 retainer.
At 5 months, Aaron was admitted for g-tube/Nissan surgery. Intubation was extremely difficult and he was diagnosed with severe tracheobronchial malasia. Three days later he had a tracheostomy. Discharged to home after 17 days, on LTV1150 with vent settings of rate of 30, tidal volume of 50, and a PEEP of 10. PCMC.
Currently, Aaron is 12.1 kg and larger for age than any of his eight older siblings were. He is trached/vent dependent and g-tube fed. He can sit with minimal support and is rolling over. He responds well to people, distinguishing between his family and strangers, and even between his favorite night nurses and others who know him. He is a happy child who grasps toys (and tubes!) and brings them to his mouth. He loves to kick a ball around the bottom of his crib.
4 months: g-tube/Nissan, tympanostomy tubes, bronchoscopy. Tracheostomy 3 days later.
13 months: cleft lip repair, ABR testing, bronchoscopy, circumcision. Developed hematoma on lip site 10 days later, evacuated and repaired.
Trisomy 18, Tracheobronchial malasia, Pulmonary hypertension, Atelectasis, Reactive airway, Congestive heart failure, moderate bidirectional VSD, small ASD, tiny PDA, Grade IV vesicoureteral reflux, Severe bilateral hearing loss, Hypothyroid, Chronic cuteness.
So sweet! And encouraging for the dad of a full T18 daughter, almost 6 months old!! Thanks for sharing your story! I'll be passing it on to family and friends.
I'm so glad it give you hope! Our babies are the sweetest blessings. Keep me posted on how she does.
my daugther was just born (1 month) and as full T18. She has Pulmonary hypertension and heart problems and im traing to understand this sindrome a litle better. Doctors dont want to operate to her heart because of her pulmonary condition. Does Aaron where oxigen because of the hypertension? can you help me untherstand a litle better what it is? Here in Portugal they dont know much.
We have just had a diagnoses of T18 and are expecting a little boy is March 2016, our 4th blessing. He has a lot of issues and are meeting the neo natal team this week and a fetal cardiologist the week after. It is good to read encouraging news about your little boy. We are in the UK.


'Something a bit different' This is where the tailoring metaphor breaks down! You may well have a requirement that cannot be met by a single course. You might want us to develop a major 'roll-out' programme to achieve a particular objective (eg, to instil diversity awareness at all levels throughout your organisation), or you may need a medium-term development programme for all your people within a particular function (eg, a sales development programme). Or perhaps you want a management development programme with one-to-one mentoring and coaching follow-up? Or have you already developed a programme and simply require a specific input to it? Whatever the requirement, give us a call – without any obligation whatsoever – and perhaps we can meet up to see how we can help you. And please don't forget that we can also undertake a training needs analysis project for you – see Related services for details.


text:
Sirimavo of Sri Lanka: Refocusing on World's first Women Prime Minister
Srimal Fernando
Authors: Srimal Fernando and Pooja Singh*
In 1970s, there was a time when Sirimavo Bandaranaike caught the global attention and her premiership was one of the most momentous times in Sri Lanka's political history. On 21 July, 1960, she became the first ever woman Prime Minister of Sri Lanka (formally known as Ceylon) and the world. Even today nearly half a century later, Sirimavo's name is remembered among the thousands of Sri Lankans and among the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) supporters. Thus the Sri Lankan voters expectations about Sirimavo rose within no time after the unfortunate assassination of her husband S.W.R.D. Bandaranaike in 1959.
In the summer of 1970, the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) , the Lanka Sama Samaja Party (LSSP) and also the Communist Party (CP) was sweeping electorates in a general election by winning 115 seats out of 151. In essence, Sirimavo's administration presented far-reaching constitutional and socio-economic reforms that were suitable for a small island nation. In fact Mrs. Bandaranaike handled the transfer of island nation becoming a republic under a new constitution tactfully. In this context, Dr. N.M. Perera, Felix Dias Bandaranaike, Philip Gunawardena was some of the primary shapers of her administration. At that time, unlike her predecessors, the former premier showed great interest in developing cement, paper, steel and chemical industries. Despite promising signs under her leadership, uneven inequalities from 1948 to 1970 and economic stagnation created tensions within rural masses. Surprisingly, a coup in 1971 by the southern insurgents headed by Rohana Wijeweera, the leader of the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) shattered the hopes of Bandaranaike government for a short time. Although coup was unsuccessful because of Sri Lanka's military support to premier's rule.
It is noteworthy to mention Sirimavo era solidified Sri Lanka's foreign policy in the coming decades, which set the stage for the island to increase bilateral ties with India and China. In fact, Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi was a trustworthy friend of Mrs. Bandaranaike. This period also saw the closest bilateral relations between the neighbouring countries. Especially, Mrs. Bandaranaike was a giant among Non-Alignment leaders. In the summer of 1976 at the fifth Non Aligned Movement (NAM) summit held at the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall(BMICH) in Colombo, Mrs. Bandaranaike stated, "The non-aligned countries should fight against injustice, intolerance, inequality, old concept of empire and intervention."
On the domestic political scenario, the opposition leader J.R. Jayewardene and his deputy Ranasinghe Premadasa had been outspoken critics of Sirimavo Bandaranaike policies. When she lost 1977 general elections, it was extremely a difficult situation for Mrs. Bandaranaike and for the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) coalition partners who had developed a remarkable sense for socialist political culture within the multicultural society in Sri Lanka. Seven years later Mrs. Bandaranaike had lost her civic rights, the party hierarchy nominated veteran SLFP stalwart Hector Kobbekaduwa for the forthcoming referendum. The Referendum results did not reflect the true situation. Then while the atmosphere began to change in the island country after the eruption of ethnic conflict and signing of the Indo-Lanka accord. This scenario caused strong anti-United National Party (UNP) regime change feeling. In a closely fought presidential election in 1988, the SLFP leader Mrs. Bandaranaike lost to UNP presidential candidate Mr. Premadasa. There were no immediate solutions to the crisis in Sri Lanka under Premadasa's presidency. Hence in the South, due to the JVP uprising and the Tamil tiger (LTTE) attacks in Northern and Eastern provinces, conditions inside the Island nation was going from bad to worse.
At the same time, the crisis in the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) came to surface and the party was divided into several wings. Thus, the time had come for SLFP party unity for doing away with the seventeen years United National Party (UNP) rule. Mrs. Bandaranaike was convinced that it was time for a new generation of party leadership. She opened the corridors of political power to Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga, Mahinda Rajapaksa, and Maithripala Sirisena who later became presidents of Sri Lanka. In late years, Mrs. Bandaranaike was a prime minister for a short time from when her daughter Mrs. Kumaratunga was president. On the Foreign Policy front she reworked strong bilateral ties with India and China and her policies remained important for Non Aligned Movement (NAM) nations and for India and China ties with Sri Lanka. After more than fifty years of service to the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP), to the nation many of the Sri Lankan's were finding it hard to come to terms with Sirimavo's sudden death on 10th October, 2000.Late premier Sirimavo Bandaranaike's pragmatic policies mattered very much for the South Asian island nation, the region and to the world at large.
* Pooja Singh, a scholar of Masters in Diplomacy, Law, Business at Jindal School of International Affairs, India.
Related Topics:HistoryPoliticsSecuritySri Lanka
Pakistan's Increasing Tilt towards China
Indian Human Rights violation in Kashmir
Research scholar at Jindal School of International Affairs, India and an editor of Diplomatic Society for South Africa
Neighbours and Crises: New Challenges for Russia
The Forgotten Analogy: World War II
Amjed Jaaved
Army chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane said that "India was not averse to the possible demilitarisation of the Siachen glacier , the world's highest battleground and an old sore in India-Pakistan ties , provided the neighbour accepted the 110-km Actual Ground Position Line (AGPL) that separates Indian and Pakistani positions. Acceptance of AGPL is the first step towards demilitarisation but the Pakistan side loathes doing that". He said, 'The Siachen situation occurred because of unilateral attempts by Pakistan to change status quo and countermeasures taken by the Indian Army' (Not averse to demilitarisation of Siachen if Pak meets pre-condition: Army chief, Hindustan Times January 13, 2022).
Reacting to the Indian army chief's statement, Pakistan's former foreign secretary Riaz Mohammad Khan reminisced that the Siachen could not fructify into a written agreement because India wanted Siachen and Kashmir to be settled together. India's approach 'nothing is agreed until everything is agreed' scuttled the agreement. As for Kashmir, "a simultaneous effort was made through the backchannel …in what is commonly known as the Four-Point Formula" (Siachen recollections, Dawn January 16, 2022). Riaz laments Indi's distrust that hindered a solution.
Shyam Saran, a voice in the wilderness
Shyam Saran, in his book How India Sees the World (pp. 88-93) makes startling revelations about how this issue eluded solution at last minute. India itself created the Siachen problem. Saran reminisces, in the 1970s, US maps began to show 23000 kilometers of Siachen area under Pakistan's control. Thereupon, Indian forces were sent to occupy the glacier in a pre-emptive strike, named Operation Meghdoot. Pakistani attempts to dislodge them did not succeed. But they did manage to occupy and fortify the lower reaches'.
He recalls how Siachen Glacier and Sir Creek agreements could not fructify for lack of political will or foot dragging. He says 'NN Vohra, who was the defence secretary at the time, confirmed in a newspaper interview that an agreement on Siachen had been reached. At the last moment, however, a political decision was taken by the Narasimha Rao government to defer its signing to the next round of talks scheduled for January the following year. But, this did not happen…My defence of the deal became a voice in the wilderness'.
Saran says, `Kautliyan template would say the options for India are sandhi, conciliation; asana, neutrality; and yana, victory through war. One could add dana, buying allegiance through gifts; and bheda, sowing discord. The option of yana, of course would be the last in today's world' (p. 64, ibid.).
India's current first option
It appears that Kautliya's last-advised option,yana, as visualised by Shyam Saran, is India's first option nowadays. Kautlya also talks about koota yuddha (no holds barred warfare), and maya yuddha (war by tricks) that India is engaged in.
Cartographic annexation
By unilaterally declaring the disputed Jammu and Kashmir its territory does not solve the Kashmir problem. This step reflects that India has embarked upon the policy "might is right". In Kotliyan parlance it would be "matsy nyaya, or mach nyaya", that is big fish eats the small one. What if China also annexes disputed borders with India? India annexed Kashmir presuming that Pakistan is not currently in a position to respond militarily, nor could it agitate the matter at international forums for fear of US ennui.
India's annexation smacks of acceptance of quasi-Dixon Plan, barring mention of plebiscite and division of Jammu. . Dixon proposed: Ladakh should be awarded to India. Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (including Gilgit and Baltistan) should remain with Pakistan. Whole Kashmir valley should have a plebiscite with no option to independence. Jammu should be divided on religious basis. The river Chmab should be the dividing line. Northern Jammu (Muslims dominated) should go to Pakistan and Hindu majority parts of Jammu to remain with India.
In short Muslim areas should have gone with Pakistan and Hindu-Buddhist majority areas should have remained with India.
India's annexation has no legal sanctity. But, it could have bbeen sanctified in a mutually agreed Kashmir solution.
India's propaganda
India portrays the freedom movement in Kashmir as `terrorism'. What about India's terrorism in neighbouring countries?
The world is listless to accounts of former diplomats and RAW officers about executing insurgencies in neighbouring countries. B. Raman, in his book The Kaoboys of R&AW: Down Memory Lane makes no bones about India's involvement up to the level of prime minister in Bangladesh's insurgency.
Will the world take notice of confessions by Indi's former intelligence officers and diplomats?B. Raman reminds `Indian parliament passed resolution on March 31, 1971 to support insurgency. Indira Gandhi had then confided with Kao that in case Mujib was prevented from ruling Pakistan, she would liberate East Pakistan from the clutches of the military junta. Kao, through one RAW agent, hijacked a Fokker Friendship, the Ganga, of Indian Airlines hijacked from Srinagar to Lahore.
India's ambassador Bharath Raj Muthu Kumar, with the consent of then foreign minister Jaswant Singh, `coordinated military and medical assistance that India was secretly giving to Massoud and his forces'… `helicopters, uniforms, ordnance, mortars, small armaments, refurbished Kalashnikovs seized in Kashmir, combat and winter clothes, packaged food, medicines, and funds through his brother in London, Wali Massoud', delivered circuitously with the help of other countries who helped this outreach'. When New Delhi queried about the benefit of costly support to Northern Alliance chief Massoud, Kumar explained, "He is battling someone we should be battling. When Massoud fights the Taliban, he fights Pakistan."
Death of back-channel
In his memoirs In the line of fire (pp.302-303), president Musharraf had proposed a personal solution of the Kashmir issue. This solution, in essence, envisioned self-rule in demilitarised regions of Kashmir under a joint-management mechanism. The solution pre-supposed* reciprocal flexibility.
Death of dialogue and diplomacy
Riaz warns of "incalculable" risks as the result of abrogation of Kashmir statehood (Aug 5, 2019). Both India and Pakistan are nuclear powers. In the absence of a dialogue on outstanding issues, war, perhaps a nuclear one, comes up as the only option.
Concluding remark
Sans sincerity, the only Kashmir solution is a nuclear Armageddon. Or, perhaps divine intervention.
Major Challenges for Pakistan in 2022
Prof. Engr. Zamir Ahmed Awan
Pakistan has been facing sever challenges since 1980s, after the former USSR's invasion of Afghanistan. The history is full of challenges, but, being a most resilient nation, Pakistan has faced some of them bravely and overcome successfully. Yet, few are rather too big for Pakistan and still struggling to overcome in the near future.
Some of the challenges are domestic or internal, which can be addressed conveniently. But, some of them are part of geopolitics and rather beyond control of Pakistan itself. Such challenges need to pay more attention and need to be smarter and address them wisely.
Few key areas will be the main focus of Pakistan in the year ahead. Relations with China and the US while navigating the Sino-US confrontation, dealing with Afghanistan's uncertainties, managing the adversarial relationship with India and balancing ties between strategic ally Saudi Arabia and neighbor Iran.
Pakistan has to pursue its diplomatic goals in an unsettled global and regional environment marked by several key features. They include rising East-West tensions, increasing preoccupation of big powers with domestic challenges, ongoing trade and technology wars overlying the strategic competition between China and the US, a fraying rules-based international order and attempts by regional and other powers to reshape the rules of the game in their neighborhood.
Understanding the dynamics of an unpredictable world is important especially as unilateral actions by big powers and populist leaders, which mark their foreign policy, have implications for Pakistan's diplomacy. In evolving its foreign policy strategy Pakistan has to match its goals to its diplomatic resources and capital. No strategy is effective unless ends and means are aligned.
Pakistan's relations with China will remain its overriding priority. While a solid economic dimension has been added to long-standing strategic ties, it needs sustained high-level engagement and consultation to keep relations on a positive trajectory. CPEC is on track, timely and smoothly progress is crucial to reinforce Beijing's interest in strengthening Pakistan, economically and strategically. Close coordination with Beijing on key issues remains important.
Pakistan wants to improve ties with the US. But relations will inevitably be affected by Washington's ongoing confrontation with Beijing, which American officials declare has an adversarial dimension while China attributes a cold war mindset to the US. Islamabad seeks to avoid being sucked into this big power rivalry. But this is easier said than done. So long as US-China relations remain unsteady it will have a direct bearing on Pakistan's effort to reset ties with the US especially as containing China is a top American priority. Pakistan desires to keep good relations with the US, but, not at the cost of China. In past, Pakistan was keeping excellent relations with US, while simultaneously very close with China. When the US imposed economic blockade against China and launched anti-communism drive during the cold war, Pakistan was close ally with the US and yet, keeping excellent relations with China. Pakistan played vital role in bring China and the US to establish diplomatic relations in 1970s. Yet, Pakistan possesses the capability to narrow down the hostility between China and the US.
Pakistan was close ally with the US during cold war, anti-communism threat, war against USSR's invasion of Afghanistan in 1980s, and war on terror, etc. Pakistan might be a small country, but, possesses strategic importance. As long as, the US was cooperating with Pakistan, Pakistan looked after the US interest in the whole region. In fact, Pakistan ensured that the US has achieved its all strategic goals in the region. Since, the US kept distance from Pakistan, is facing failure after another failure consecutively. The importance of Pakistan is well recognized by the deep state in the US.
US thinks that withdrawal from Afghanistan has diminished Pakistan's importance for now. For almost two decades Afghanistan was the principal basis for engagement in their frequently turbulent ties, marked by both cooperation and mistrust. As Pakistan tries to turn a new page with the US the challenge is to find a new basis for a relationship largely shorn of substantive bilateral content. Islamabad's desire to expand trade ties is in any case contingent on building a stronger export base.
Complicating this is Washington's growing strategic and economic relations with India, its partner of choice in the region in its strategy to project India as a counterweight to China. The implications for Pakistan of US-India entente are more than evident from Washington turning a blind eye to the grim situation in occupied Kashmir and its strengthening of India's military and strategic capabilities. Closer US-India ties will intensify the strategic imbalance in the region magnifying Pakistan's security challenge.
Multiple dimensions of Pakistan's relations with Afghanistan will preoccupy Islamabad, which spent much of 2021 engaged with tumultuous developments there. While Pakistan will continue to help Afghanistan avert a humanitarian and economic collapse it should not underestimate the problems that may arise with an erstwhile ally. For one, the TTP continues to be based in Afghanistan and conduct attacks from there. The border fencing issue is another source of unsettled discord. Careful calibration of ties will be needed — assisting Afghanistan but avoiding overstretch, and acknowledging that the interests of the Taliban and Pakistan are far from identical. Moreover, in efforts to mobilize international help for Afghanistan, Islamabad must not exhaust its diplomatic capital, which is finite and Pakistan has other foreign policy goals to pursue.
Managing relations with India will be a difficult challenge especially as the Modi government is continuing its repressive policy in occupied Kashmir and pressing ahead with demographic changes there, rejecting Pakistan's protests. The hope in establishment circles that last year's backchannel between the two countries would yield a thaw or even rapprochement, turned to disappointment when no headway was made on any front beyond the re-commitment by both neighbors to observe a ceasefire on the Line of Control.
Working level diplomatic engagement will continue on practical issues such as release of civilian prisoners. But prospects of formal dialogue resuming are slim in view of Delhi's refusal to discuss Kashmir. This is unlikely to change unless Islamabad raises the diplomatic costs for Delhi of its intransigent policy. Islamabad's focus on Afghanistan last year meant its diplomatic campaign on Kashmir sagged and was limited to issuing tough statements. Unless Islamabad renews and sustains its international efforts with commitment and imagination, India will feel no pressure on an issue that remains among Pakistan's core foreign policy goals.
With normalization of ties a remote possibility, quiet diplomacy by the two countries is expected to focus on managing tensions to prevent them from spinning out of control. Given the impasse on Kashmir, an uneasy state of no war, no peace is likely to continue warranting Pakistan's sustained attention.
In balancing ties with Saudi Arabia and Iran, Pakistan should consider how to leverage possible easing of tensions between the long-standing rivals — of which there are some tentative signs. With Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman keen to use economic power to expand his country's diplomatic clout by making strategic overseas investments, Pakistan should use its political ties with Riyadh to attract Saudi investment through a coherent strategy. Relations with Iran too should be strengthened with close consultation on regional issues especially Afghanistan. The recent barter agreement is a step in the right direction.
In an increasingly multipolar world, Pakistan also needs to raise its diplomatic efforts by vigorous outreach to other key countries and actors beyond governments to secure its national interests and goals.
Afghanistan: UN launches largest single country aid appeal ever
MD Staff
Displaced families collect water during a harsh winter in Kabul, Afghanistan. © UNHCR/Andrew McConnell
The UN and partners launched a more than $5 billion funding appeal for Afghanistan on Tuesday, in the hope of shoring up collapsing basic services there, which have left 22 million in need of assistance inside the country, and 5.7 million people requiring help beyond its borders.
Speaking in Geneva, UN Emergency Relief Coordinator Martin Griffiths said that $4.4 billion was needed for the Afghanistan Humanitarian Response Plan alone, "to pay direct" to health workers and others, not the de facto authorities.
UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi called for $623 million, to support refugees and host communities in five neighbouring countries, for the Afghanistan Situation Regional Refugee Response Plan.
"Today we are launching an appeal for $4.4 billion for Afghanistan itself for 2022," said Mr. Griffiths. "This is the largest ever appeal for a single country for humanitarian assistance and it is three times the amount needed, and actually fundraised in 2021."
Needs could double
The scale of need is already enormous, both UN officials stressed, warning that if insufficient action is taken now to support the Afghanistan and regional response plans, "next year we'll be asking for $10 billion".
Mr. Griffiths added: "This is a stop-gap, an absolutely essential stop-gap measure that we are putting in front of the international community today. Without this being funded, there won't be a future, we need this to be done, otherwise there will be outflow, there will be suffering."
Rejecting questions that the funding would be used to support the Taliban's grip on de facto government, Mr. Griffiths insisted that it would go directly into the pockets of "nurses and health officials in the field" so that these services can continue, not as support for State structures.
UN aid agencies describe Afghanistan's plight as one of the world's most rapidly growing humanitarian crises.
According to UN humanitarian coordination office OCHA, half the population now faces acute hunger, over nine million people have been displaced and millions of children are out of school.
Youngsters' plight
Asked to describe what might happen if sufficient support was not forthcoming, the UN emergency relief chief replied that he was particularly concerned for one million children now facing severe acute malnutrition. "A million children – figures are so hard so grasp when they're this kind of size – but a million children at risk of that kind of malnutrition if these things don't happen, is a shocking one."
But humanitarian agencies and their partners who will receive the requested funding directly can only do so much, Mr. Griffiths explained, before reiterating his support for the 22 December UN Security Council resolution that cleared the way for aid to reach Afghans, while preventing funds from falling into the hands of the Taliban.
"Humanitarian agencies inside Afghanistan can only operate if there's cash in the economy which can be used to pay officials, salaries, costs, fuel and so-forth," he said. "So, liquidity in its first phase is a humanitarian issue, it's not just a bigger economic issue."
Stave off disease, hunger
He added: "My message is urgent: don't shut the door on the people of Afghanistan. Humanitarian partners are on the ground, and they are delivering, despite the challenges. Help us scale up and stave off wide-spread hunger, disease, malnutrition and ultimately death by supporting the humanitarian plans we are launching today."
Highlighting the need to avoid a wider regional crisis emanating from Afghanistan, UNHCR chief Grandi, insisted that what was needed most, was "to stabilize the situation inside Afghanistan, including that of displaced people who are displaced inside their country. Also, to prevent a larger refugee crisis, a larger crisis of external displacement."
Nonetheless, Afghanistan's immediate neighbours had sheltered vulnerable Afghans for decades, Mr. Grandi explained, as he appealed for $623 million in funding for 40 organizations working in protection, health and nutrition, food security, shelter and non-food items, water and sanitation, livelihoods and resilience, education, and logistics and telecoms.
Decades of shelter
No-one should forget "that there is a regional dimension to this crisis, represented by the Afghan refugees but also Afghans with many other 'stay' arrangements in neighbouring countries in particular," Mr. Grandi said, "especially in Pakistan and Iran that have hosted Afghans for more than 40 years, but also Central Asian States."
Since the Taliban takeover last August, women's and girls' rights have continued to come under attack, OCHA noted in a statement, "while farmers and herders are struggling amid the worst drought in decades and the economy is in freefall".
Rights reminder
On the issue of protecting fundamental rights, Mr. Griffiths underlined the fact that UN humanitarians were continuing to hold "conversations" with Afghanistan's de facto authorities at a national and sub-national level, on issues such as aid and education access for all.
Echoing that message, UN refugee chief Mr. Grandi noted that humanitarians on the ground were well aware of the importance of stressing the need to protect the rights of minorities and other vulnerable Afghans.
"Our colleagues are there every day, and that's what they talk about every day; they certainly talk about access, and delivery and needs, but they also talk about women at work, women in school – girls in school – rights of minorities, but it's that space that we need to preserve."


4044 S Dupont Hwy, Camden, DE 19934.
1440 N Dupont Hwy, Dover, DE 19901.
1101 Quintilio Dr, Bear, DE 19701.
204 Christiana Mall, Newark, DE 19702.
17 W Main Street, Newark, DE 19713.
4737 Concord Pike Ste 760, Wilmington, DE 19803.
344 Walmart Drive, Camden, DE 19934.
223 S. Dupont Hwy., Dover, DE 19901.
1030 Forrest Avenue, Dover, DE 19904.
134 N Dupont Blvd, Smyrna, DE 19977.
If you are craving Indian food or Dinner, search for customer reviews and ratings on the different types of food and restaurants nearby Delaware in our directory. Research Free Coupons and Chicken and Specialities Address and Hours near Delaware, so you know your options.


Mega Gloss Gold Silicone Copolymer is a technically advanced, single component silicone copolymer topside finish that delivers a mirror-like finish. Loaded with UV stabilizers, Mega Gloss Gold will last up to 5 times longer than conventional topside finishes. Extremely durable, hard, super high gloss, exceptional color retention, and tremendous durability. Mega Gloss Gold is fast drying which when brush or rolled gives a silky smooth finish with excellent handle and flow. This widely used silicone copolymer has tremendous resistance to tough chemicals, cleaning solutions and ultraviolet light. Can be used of fiberglass, wood, aluminum and steel. It's like wrapping your boat in glass!


Farthest East, West, North, And South?
Q1: What did Prince rename a Cincinnati girl named Tara Patrick?
Q2: Whose first album was called "Ten," in honor of NBA player Mookie Blaylock's jersey number?
Q3: The 1994 REM song "What's the Frequency, Kenneth?" was based on the words that a deranged man said while he mugged which celebrity?
Q4: In what song by the Clash do we learn that "phony Beatlemania has bitten the dust"?
Q5: Three members of what band met at a school of design in Rhode Island?