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Read Next:	Does Harvey Weinstein's Jury Selection Strategy Make Any Sense?
September 13, 2018 6:00AM PT
The Dangers of This Year's Newest Fashion Accessory
Why JUUL doesn't belong on the runway
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CREDIT: Courtesy of Truth Initiative
New York Fashion Week is a semi-annual cultural phenomenon, bringing countless designers, models, influencers, stylists, and editors to the Big Apple. Fashion enthusiasts tune in globally to get a glimpse of the season's latest trends — making it the perfect Instagram-able setting for those hoping to tap into this vast, fixated audience. With more than 53% of young adults using Instagram as their primary social media platform, and more than 180 million daily active Snapchat users, this event has a major influence on what people, especially youth, see as fashionable.
But it's not all about the hottest hairstyles, apparel, and jewelry. New research published in "Social Media + Society" suggests that the growing popularity of "smoking selfies" — photos posted on social media of people smoking — may counteract progress in changing attitudes about tobacco and decreasing the smoking rate among youth by normalizing its use. And it's not just cigarettes. With the rise of popular vaping devices such as JUUL, these new products are starting to be seen as fashion accessories and part of today's pop culture.
Truth Initiative, a national public health organization that is inspiring tobacco-free lives and building a culture where all youth and young adults reject tobacco, is calling out the unsettling rise of "smoking selfies" in hopes of keeping both cigarettes and vaping products away from the fashion scene and off the runway this week.
These images have a powerful impact — even if unintentional. In a recent photoshoot with "GQ," Pete Davidson clutches a JUUL in one of the shots. With Davidson's increasing popularity and celebrity status, this photo with a JUUL in a prominent magazine could have a silent impact on the fashion decisions readers make. With a sleek, high-tech look, color options such as blush gold, and appealing flavors like cool mint and tart mango, it's easy to understand why JUUL seems like another hot item coming out of Fashion Week.
Further, these images provide vaping companies with unpaid advertising and could potentially recruit more young users and, ultimately, smokers. Young adults who use e-cigarettes are more than four times as likely to begin smoking cigarettes as their non-vaping peers. Unlike any other hot fashion trend, JUUL is one that may lead to a lifetime of nicotine addiction.
One of the most jarring facts pulled straight from JUUL's website is that the nicotine in one standard cartridge of JUUL roughly equals the nicotine of a pack of cigarettes — that's 20 smokes.
JUUL claims that it markets its products as "only for adults" — but continues to dupe JUUL's young consumers. The company claims to have had no idea that it would track so well among kids, yet JUUL has amassed a huge following among young users. There's also limited government regulation of JUUL and no socially responsible advertising that makes clear its detrimental effects on vapers' health and well-being. So, kids enthusiastically partake, none the wiser.
A social media presence is nothing new for products like JUUL or even Big Tobacco. Until recently, JUUL's social media platforms used young models to promote its product, but after backlash, it announced a shift to adult testimonials. This is similar to tactics used by Big Tobacco, which was recently found to be secretly using social media to promote smoking. According to an investigation led by the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, brand giants Philip Morris International, British American Tobacco, Japan Tobacco International, and Imperial Brands are using social media influencers in more than 40 countries to promote tobacco use without disclosing payment.
So, what happens when JUUL loses popularity? When vaping products such as JUUL are no longer seen as cool, young people who used them could be left with addictions to nicotine.
And there is nothing glamorous or cool about that.
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Does Harvey Weinstein's Jury Selection Strategy Make Any Sense?
Harvey Weinstein's defense team appeared to have a strategy for jury selection: keep white women off the panel. They didn't put it that way, because picking jurors based on race or gender is illegal. But on Thursday and again on Friday, prosecutor Joan Illuzzi accused the defense of using its peremptory challenges to systematically exclude [...]
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Parties on both sides expect the Supreme Court to eventually resolve the issue. And with President Donald Trump's two appointees, Justices Neil Gorsuch and Brett Kavanaugh, the high court now has five conservative justices who may be inclined to reverse the landmark ruling.
The Students for Fair Admissions group Blum founded when he filed the Harvard case in November 2014 contends the university engages in unlawful "racial balancing" as it boosts the chances of admissions for blacks and Hispanics and lowers the chances for Asian Americans.
The NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund filed a brief on behalf of 25 Harvard student and alumni organizations comprising blacks, Latinos, Native Americans, Asian Americans and whites. The Legal Defense Fund calls the lawsuit an effort "to sow racial division" and emphasizes the Supreme Court's repeated endorsement of the 1978 case Regents of the University of California v. Bakke.
Those subsequent rulings, however, turned on a single vote, either that of Kennedy or Justice Sandra Day O'Connor, who retired in 2006.
Harvard, the country's oldest institution of higher education, denies that it engages in racial balancing or limits Asian-American admissions. It defends its longstanding effort for racial diversity as part of the education mission and says admissions officers undertake a "whole-person evaluation" that includes academics, extracurricular activities, talents and personal qualities, as well as socioeconomic background and race.
Since the case was first filed, both sides have mined similar statistical evidence and testimony but with sharply contrasting conclusions — all of which will now be presented before US District Court Judge Allison Burroughs.
"Each party relies on its own expert reports to show the presence or absence of a negative effect of being Asian American on the likelihood of admission … and claims that there is substantial — or zero — documentary and testimonial evidence of discriminatory intent," Burroughs said in an order last month rejecting requests from both sides to rule for each, respectively, before trial.
As part of the case, Harvard was forced to turn over 200,000 undergraduate admissions files from a six-year period. The files included students' grades, test scores and extracurricular activities; demographic and legacy information; and admissions officers' ratings.
Students for Fair Admissions' statistical expert asserted in preliminary findings that while Asian-American applicants are, as a group, stronger than applicants of other races in the academic and extracurricular categories, they receive the lowest "personal" ratings among racial groups.
Justice Department officials contend Harvard has failed to provide "meaningful criteria" to explain how its admissions offers weigh factors in a candidate's application. DOJ focused on Asian-American applicants' lower scores in the "personal rating," saying that may reveal Harvard's bias.
The details of what groups siding with Students for Fair Admissions call a "black box process" and the admissions officers' judgments are expected to be on display in upcoming weeks as witnesses from both sides are called.
Harvard's lawyers have insisted in filings that the Students for Fair Admissions' arguments stem from "deeply flawed" analyses that fail to take into account all the important factors that Harvard admissions officers consider. They also note that the percentage of Asian Americans in the entering classes has risen over the past decade.
When now-retired Justice Kennedy cast the crucial decisive vote in 2016 to uphold a University of Texas program that considered applicants' race, among other factors, he remarked on the difficult balancing act for judges.


We are pleased to announce that Oxera will once again be hosting participants for a special Reception and Dinner on Thursday, November 21, 2019 at 7:00 p.m. We would like to thank Oxera for their continued support of the European Forum on Competition Litigation.
About Oxera: For more than 35 years, companies, competition authorities, courts and legal professionals have relied on Oxera's economic expert advice in commercial disputes, as well as in stand-alone and follow-on antitrust damages cases.
In 2009, Oxera wrote an influential and widely cited study for the European Commission on quantifying damages. Today, we continue to provide Commission-sponsored training courses for European judges on antitrust matters, including quantifying damages from competition law infringements.
Last year alone, Oxera advised claimants or defendants in over 70 commercial and antitrust damages cases across a wide range of jurisdictions. These included the main forums of Germany, the Netherlands and the UK, but also Belgium, France, Canada, the USA and South Africa. Notable cases included the first UK trial of cartel damages, the BritNed power cables case, the cathode ray tubes case in the Netherlands, and various car parts cases in Germany.
Partner and co-head of Oxera's Litigation practice, Robin Noble, was nominated for Economist of the Year at the 2018 GCR awards. Like him, many of Oxera's other senior experts have received nominations in Who's Who Legal.
To find out more about Oxera's experts and Litigation practice, visit www.oxera.com.


2) If you use a paper-based program, prepare everything you need for a smooth entry into the school year. Prepare important calendar dates; wait until your class is established to copy in the students. If you've working with an electronic system, decide on the grade weights or averaging system and establish the formula in the software. Make sure you have a storage plan.
3) Have a plan for storing handouts like a stacking/filing system and a specific location for finding those stacks. Keep only 1 master copy of each file and recyle last year's bulk copies. Make sure you have a copy on your computer!
8) Organize your own supplementary resource material. This can be a teacher's checklist that you consult and use frequently, some uplifting words for bad days, or a a list of reminders.
10) If you are a reading teacher, you might want to have a folder for informal reading comments as you listen to your students read the first week. Pre-assessments (click on pre-assessments) during the first weeks of school are especially important for getting to know your students.
Okay, that's it for now. I hope I'm not forgetting something! If so, leave a comment. I'll respond to it.
Have a good summer and a smooth back-to-school landing!


Bathroom renovation can be cheap but still appears aesthetically satisfying. This can only be possible if you hire the real experts. At Sydney Bathroom Renovators, you are assured of budget-friendly renovation and great work output that even appears luxurious.
Our pool of professional and friendly local team of workers are trained for a fast yet careful and effective planning and building any bathroom space, whether small or big. If you have ideas for the new bathroom that you desire, have these heard by our consultants on board so you can plan together. In case you have limited designs, we have a vast choices of styles that you can have a look.
We offer cost-effective materials that come from our trusted partners over the years. We also provide a quick turnaround from quotation to the completion of the work, without having any of your existing furnishing destroyed. Our workers are careful and trustworthy.
Get a quick quotation upon consultation today by calling + 61 416 120 005. Our projects over the decades were completed under based on the BCA code of Australia experienced licensed builder.
Do not hesitate to connect with us. We are excited to see your old bathroom in Sandy Point transformed into a new haven!


International travelers should have return ticket or onward journey ticket, with sufficient money to spend during his / her stay in India.
International travelers having Pakistan Passport or Pakistan origin may please apply for regular Visa at Indian Mission, as they are NOT ELIGIBLE for an E-Visa.
E-Visa is not available to Diplomatic / Official Passport Holders or Laissez-passer travel document holders.
E-Visa is not available to individuals endorsed on Parent's / Spouse's Passport; Each individual must have a separate passport.
E-Visa is not available to International Travel Document Holders.
A foreigner (other than those applying for E-Conference Visa) will be permitted to club these categories. Foreigners applying for e-Conference visa will be permitted to club with E-Tourist visa only. Only 2 E-Medical Attendant visas will be granted against one E-Medical visa.
Applicants of the eligible countries / territories may apply online minimum 4 days in advance of the date of arrival with a window of choice of up to 120 days.
Example: If you are applying on 1st of January then applicant can select arrival date from 5th of January to 4th of May.
Recent front facing photograph with white background and photo page of Passport containing personal details like name, date of birth, nationality, expiry date etc are to be uploaded mandatory by the applicant. Additionally one more document depending upon the e-Visa type would also be required to be uploaded. The application is liable to be rejected if the uploaded documents and photograph are not clear as per specification.
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Homeowner associations have the unique ability to customize how their business is done. This allows one HOA to do business very differently than virtually every other HOA if the board and members choose to. While most donrsquo;t, there are often policies, procedures, rules and regulations that vary somewhat from one HOA to another. These differences can range from minor nuances in parking and pet regulations to major policies on architectural design restrictions. And like other forms of government, what was the policy two years ago may not be the policy today if the board or members vote to change it. Caveat emptor. Buyer beware.
1. All rules need to be written. In days before the written word, laws were passed on by oral tradition. Since clans were closely knit, this system worked pretty well. But with modern fractured families living global lives, writing has a distinct advantage for keeping newcomers informed. Funny thing is, many HOAs have unwritten rules that offenders donrsquo;t discover until they break them. Judges, however, donrsquo;t like the idea of unwritten rules and often smite HOAs that have them. So all rules should be written in clear language.
2. All rules should be available for inspection. Written records are usually controlled by those that keep the records, the board or manager. With the advent of email and the internet, humankind has been set free of the paper prison. HOAs can now make rules, policies, information and records available 24/7 by way of a self-help website. Prospective buyers can also access this information to ensure there is nothing that would create a problem after closing the sale like, the buyer has an RV and RV parking is not allowed..
3. All rules should be consistently enforced. If a rule is important, it should apply to everyone, including the board and friends of the board.
4. All rules should be necessary. In a world gone mad with regulation, having a whole new set to adhere to at home is an unnecessary aggravation. If there is a city ordinance to control wandering or defecating pets, the HOA doesnrsquo;t need the same rule. Only add the rules the HOA really needs.
5. Never try to out rule scofflaws. Scofflaws love it when the board enacts rules to control them. They thrive on confrontation and rules are the line in the sand over which they must step. Fortunately, scofflaws are rare. If confronted by one, the board should address their special needs by other means which may include compromise.
6. Rules can be compromised. Since all humans are unique, one size does not fit all. The board may have its rules challenged in a way that is headed to a judgersquo;s ruling that the board may not like. Since the board is elected to govern, the board has the power to compromise. If faced with the prospect of an expensive court battle or compromise, it is often in the best interest of the HOA to opt for the latter. Courtrooms are nasty places that often only further inflame disputes.
7. Run new rules up the flagpole. HOA boards can get myopic about the need for rules. Problems that loom large to a board may be of little importance to the majority of members. The board can make much ado about nothing. Or worse, the board can fan the flames of rebellion by enacting an unpopular rule. Is that tar I smell?. There is no rule that is so urgent that couldnrsquo;t wait for a 30 day member review and comment. Proposed rules circulated to the members generally gain buy-in and compliance, rather than defiance.
8. Provide for a right of appeal. Itrsquo;s very American to have an excuse. And extenuating circumstances may actually be legitimate. Appeals are not only fair, but expected. The board should never engage in a game of ldquo;Gotchardquo;. Look for ways to catch someone doing good.
At the end of the day, HOA rule breakers are neighbors. So the tone and texture of HOA rules needs to take this into consideration to avoid ongoing skirmishes between warring neighbors. Rather than plan for battle, groom the rules to help neighbors be better neighbors.


What: To help businesses connect customers with the ultimate digital experience, Avaya Vice President of Product & Business Management, Karen Hardy, will present "Customer Experience of the Future, What's Yours?" at Forrester's CXSF 2016, where the focus will be on design and delivery of exceptional customer experiences. Discussing the use of emerging technology in digital channels, Hardy will offer a glimpse into the customer experience of the future, emerging megatrends and the likely impact on business operations. She will also show how businesses can become 'smarter' than the consumer and deliver the ultimate customer experience.
When: Friday, October 21, at 10:50 a.m.
Why Attend: Assisting organizations in migrating from to a customer experience focused strategy that spans technology, process, and customer engagement, Hardy's presentation promises to be one of the highlights of the three-day Forrester Events conference, and features some of the world's leading customer experience analysts and experts from Avaya, Amazon, Blue Apron, and Airbnb.


Ruth Travis, writing for iCSmag.com, recalls an event in Colorado last September when she and other board members of the Professional Association of Cleaning and Restoration (PACR) were deliberating on whether or not to go ahead with the planned hands-on rug cleaning course in the midst of severe thunderstorms. The event was green thumbed anyway, as the city suffered millions of dollars and lives lost in the aftermath. The attendees got more than they bargained for: a series of unforgettable hands-on learning sessions.
As the rugs came in, they were first dried out. Since the rugs had been exposed to Category 3 floodwater, once dried they were drenched – both front and back – with an antimicrobial treatment. Many of them were packed with mud, so prior to cleaning they were flushed with water, then submersion cleaned. The students helped as best they could under the circumstances and gained some valuable insight and experience along the way.
Decatur carpet cleaning in Illinois has also been a major challenge this year due to seasonal flooding, so much so that the city sought to obliterate flooding altogether by improving its storm water drain facilities. Initial improvements involve dredging and rehabilitation of the Oakley site where the sediment gets stored.
Flooding has always been regarded as a grave matter. When floodwater runs into any property, especially where carpets and rugs are extensive interior features, if left damp for any length of time, these carpets will harbor toxic mold growth that poses health dangers to residents and employees.
Decatur and Springfield, IL carpet cleaning companies, such as Peerless, along with the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration, recommend a professional and thorough cleaning of home and office carpets at least once a year. When faced with flood-damaged carpeting, though, especially sewage-tainted floodwater, the time and expense of salvaging the carpet may not be worth the health risk. However, if you are bent on saving your carpets, as you would most certainly with your expensive rugs, you'll be the wiser and safer to consult with professional carpet cleaning and restoration companies like Peerless Cleaning & Restoration Services that are equipped with industrial-strength steam cleaning and drying facilities.


With me being an over 55-year-old golfer I feel I am very equipped in offering my personal Golf Tips for Seniors, it has helped my game and I am sure my suggestions will help your game too. Firstly I want to start off with keeping your head still as much as humanly possible throughout your golf swing.
During my time out on the golf course I see so many older golfers swinging the golf club and swaying with it at the same time, I can fully understand that as we have all got older the body doesn't move like it used to, but regardless of age, ability or size we should all be able to keep our head still and just create a nice easy golf swing. Keeping your eye on the ball and keeping your head still will inevitably lead to better-struck golf shots regardless of your handicap and age! So my first and most important tip for my fellow senior golfers is to keep your 'head still and your eye on the ball', when I feel that my game is heading for the doghouse my main thought or mindset is to keep my head still, it works for me and I am 100% sure it will work for you too.
My next tip is to really slow down your backswing for golf tips for seniors, I have said this before and I will say it again "You do not hit the golf ball in your backswing", so you need to always focus on a nice easy takeaway and release the club at the top of the backswing for maximum power when you hit the ball. Taking the club back fast and then trying to counteract that upward motion with a downward motion takes a lot of skill and can create a lot of moving parts, this is exactly what we don't want to happen in your backswing.
This does take a time to change, especially if you have been playing golf for many years. So I would recommend getting on the driving range, hit a few shots to warm up, use your old backswing speed just to get warmed up and getting your timing right as per normal, then once warmed up start taking the club back slower at a time until you feel comfortable with your new backswing speed.
My last tip for this post is about putting, if we are playing a par 72 golf course that means 18 greens, so that means on a good day that's 2 putts per hole so that equates to 36 putts per round, that's 50% of your golf shots straight away, I know we are not all scratch golfers but that is an extremely lot of golf shots per round regardless of your handicap! These little tips about putting will definitely give you more confidence on the green and inevitably lead to better scores.
My tip is to get a felt tip permanent marker pen and draw a line on the ball when you are happy that you have picked out the line of your putt then line up the line on your ball on the line of the putt.
Now that you have lined up your putt, you need to now line up your putter behind the ball square to the line on your golf ball with the line on your putter. Now you can be confident that you are in line with the ball, putter and the line towards the hole, now it is just about getting the feel of the speed of the green and rolling that putt confidently towards the hole – give it a go – I am confident this drill will help you putt more consistently during your round, but I would advise practising this on the practice putting green before going out on the golf course – to get your set up drilled well tuned.
We are never too old or too young to learn different things about golf, so my next post will be about the address and taking back of the golf club in the section basic golf swing lessons. However in the meantime, if you have any comments or would like to subscribe to my newsletter please enter your details or leave a comment and I will be in touch.
I better start out saying I'm not a golfer, but I enjoyed your site. The only golfing I have done is the miniature golf, which I really liked and had lots of fun. I've also done some archery golf, but that's another sport.
Hi Michael, Great site Michael, very clear and easy to navigate around. Being a lifetime senior golfer all the content I can very easily relate to. Every point to me is accurate with all tips and advice from beginners to seniors. The current videos are clear with basic advice on grip and more advanced shots.
all of the content here is relevant as I can relate to it very easily. The content relates to all issues in golf with tips from beginners to seniors.
The videos he just introduced are most helpful including proper grip and more advanced types of shots.
I'm Very impressed. This looks like a professional site by all means. You have covered all the bases. I like how easy it is to read and navigate. I especially like the newsletter pop when I hovered over a page. Newsletters are something a lot of people like to get.
I was immediately taken by the first impression I got when I first opened the site. Very well done. You should be proud of yourself.
Wow, really nice site! Presented in a way that is understandable and readable. I really enjoyed the videos, very informative and good quality. My Uncle LOVES golfing, I'll be sure to let him know about this page! Be sure to keep adding new stuff, I like the energy of your posts!


In the middle French country living rooms stands a solid farming table. A symbol of endurance and stability of peasant farmers' lives for centuries. The French Country table can be identical to the kitchen table. Of course, the layout of your home will ultimately determine this. But historically they have become one and the same. French Country Dining Table is made of solid wood; whose choice is the consumer. This is the part you want to consider as an investment. That's where your kids are and, hopefully, their children will sit down to eat. And mark the events of the season and throughout the year. In addition, often where children will complete homework every day. Where families will discuss important matters. And where family vacations will be plan and remember.
The options available today are totally unlimited. Thanks to the custom nature of furniture design now available to consumers, every table you can imagine can be made. There are several principles to keep in mind when choosing a table. That matches the theme of the French State. Top: The top of the table should be able to handle the use and abuse of every day. This includes the ability to resist stains or remove stains easily. Toughness to nicks and wounds, while maintaining warmth so the room remains inviting. This is another reason why the French state is a great style for the family. It's really inviting life.
This is not to say that the table will look ugly. No, the bulk and density of wood use in such pieces prevent any real damage as it is done. Cherry and antique pine is the two most sought-after ones. Many want their desks to look older and choose a depressed look to achieve this goal. The table can end with a whitewashed look as well. Liming, which is a centuries-old process originally design to prevent termites and other insects from attacking furniture. Is often the choice for a cushion, whether pedestal or legs. But not recommended for the table because of frequent contact with fluids.
Base: The round table of the French State is often accompanied by a large center base. The advantage of this is that no one needs to sit near the foot of the table. The round table is usually smaller, with seating up to eight. Traditionally the base of the rectangle will be a firm, straight leg. And shaft or cabriole, and may have the option of saving its own leaf. Seating can be expand through the use of leaves.


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A trip through modern Mongolia
Ih Gazriin chuluu, also known as the big rock formation. PHOTO: Paris O'Rourke
My flight finally takes off towards Mongolia, a country where nomadic life still thrives across the vast landscape. I had just spent an agonising 24 hours in a South Korean airport due to a Typhoon. Flying over the sparse land of...
By PARIS O'ROURKE
My flight finally takes off towards Mongolia, a country where nomadic life still thrives across the vast landscape.
I had just spent an agonising 24 hours in a South Korean airport due to a Typhoon.
Flying over the sparse land of Mongolia towards the capital city Ulaanbaatar, a sense of adventure of the unknown comes over me.
I am about to explore a mysterious foreign country containing deserts, mountains and plains which stretch for days.
The van used to travel thousands of kilometres across Mongolia. PHOTO: Paris O'Rourke
However, Mongolia is also a place which thrives on tourism, and it is increasingly becoming influenced by the modern technological world.
Arriving in Ulaanbaatar, a bustling city of travellers, laden with Soviet-style concrete buildings and constant construction, I head to UB Guesthouse, a small hostel situated in the centre of the city.
Ms Bolormaa, the general manager of the hostel, has been working in the tourism field for more than 19 years.
She welcomes me into the cosy guesthouse, which will be my home for the next three weeks as I travel in and out of the countryside.
Walking in the Gobi desert. PHOTO: Paris O'Rourke
Mongolia has a vibrant cultural and political history where nomadic culture, religion and communism have all shaped the country. The Gobi Desert is known as the place with the richest collection of dinosaur remains in the world.
Mongolia has a booming travel industry, with its yearly tourism rates being equal to one-sixth of the total Mongolian population.
"According to the statistics from Mongolian tourist office, Mongolia accepts approximately 500,000 tourists per year," Ms Bolormaa said.
Grassy plains finish where the Gobi desert begins. PHOTO: Paris O'Rourke
I set off on a 10-hour bus ride in hope to meet other travellers for a 7-day trip to the Gobi Desert.
I gaze out the bus window. A city of high-rises and crumbling Soviet flats quickly fade to the background, and a landscape of dry grass and low hills become my view for the next 10 hours.
Herds of wild horses gallop in the distance across the plains, and goats, sheep and cattle wander close to the rocky road.
A herd of wild horses outside of Dalanzadgad. PHOTO: Paris O'Rourke
The bus passes 'gers', a traditional nomadic home often constructed from felt covers, wooden columns and animal hide.
A large proportion of the Mongolian population still call these gers 'home'.
"Approximately 25% of the total Mongolian residents are still considered nomadic," Ms Bolormaa told me.
Nomadic traditional family gers. PHOTO: Paris O'Rourke
While I've come to Mongolia to see the beautiful nature and experience a different way of life, there are still many problems facing the country today, such as the deteriorating natural land from tourism infrastructure and plastic pollution.
While tourism has contributed money to the economy and created a stable work system for many Mongolians, Ms Bolormaa said she has witnessed first-hand the substantial effects tourism has had for the Mongolian landscape.
"Many grasslands have been spoiled due to new roads being built, and the sheer amount of people travelling through the countryside," Ms Bolormaa said.
Driving towards the Gobi desert. PHOTO: Paris O'Rourke
Ms Bolormaa said she recommends tourists see Mongolian nomadic life first-hand, and to respect Mongolian nature, as it is one of the only countries where nature is so vast yet accessible for tourists.
Arriving at Dalanzadgad town, I meet a few other tourists, all with the aim to see the Ice Valley, Bayanzag, Tsagaan Suvarga and the Gobi Desert, a few famous places in Southern Mongolia.
Inga Mahle, a German aircraft engineer who is a few months into a three-year backpacker trip, wanted to travel Mongolia because she was curious about the nomadic lifestyle.
Inga Mahle riding a camel in the Gobi desert. PHOTO: Paris O'Rourke
"I also wanted to see the landscapes that Mongolia is famous for, mainly the green grassy hills and the Gobi desert," Ms Mahle said.
Nomadic lifestyle involves staying in gers, moving around, caring for livestock and producing self-sufficient food.
Being welcomed into a nomad's home always involves being gifted a cup of airag (fermented horse milk) and hard biscuits made from goat or camel milk, depending on the region.
Drinking airag (fermented horse milk tea) in the family ger. PHOTO: Paris O'Rourke
Ms Mahle said this traditional nomadic world has now collided with the "modern world", where motorbikes, solar panels and televisions can be found in the nomad's homes.
Travelling through this contrasting culture with the world's "smallest population density really interested me", Ms Mahle said.
While the Mongolian nomads maintain traditional family roles as a part of their culture, tourism has transformed their ways of life.
Young kids with their family's goat. PHOTO: Paris O'Rourke
Inside a ger. PHOTO: Paris O'Rourke
Nomads have adapted to tourist's interests, and offer tourists ger accommodation and camel and horse tours in efforts to make more income.
Mongolia remains a country where tourism still promotes a non-exploitative culture in most aspects, however this may change in the future.
Terelj National Park, one of the most heavily visited areas in Mongolia, currently has a large hotel complex under construction.
This was one of the only hotels outside of Ulaanbaatar that I saw.
View from the top of Bayanzag of the winding roads. PHOTO: Paris O'Rourke
"Most of the tour companies are run by local businesses despite the large amount of tourists, therefore the money from the tourists stays in the country," Ms Mahle said.
After spending a week travelling south of Mongolia, I was keen to arrive back in Ulaanbaatar and have my first shower in five days.
Ice Valley. PHOTO: Paris O'Rourke
After experiencing traditional life, I was excited to see more of Mongolia as I planned my next trip to Khovsgol Lake in the North.
While there is a contrasting culture of tradition and modernity within Mongolia, it remains a place where families have lived in the same ger for four generations, where hospitality remains a priority, and they adapt to the changes surrounding them.
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redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


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Fat Chance Raiders Will Get JaMarcus' Money Back
By Joe Kukura	• Published at 2:31 pm on May 28, 2010
Stephanie Moseley/Instagram
Raider Nation is enjoying a big belly laugh over the Oakland Raiders suing JaMarcus Russell for $9.55 million in already-paid salary. The impending legal battle promises to be the most hilarious and entertaining off-field sports controversy since the time Joe Buck put Artie Lange live TV.
But no fooling -- the Raiders actually have a very sound legal case here, and whatever happens will set a watershed precedent affecting future contract restructurings in the NFL.
The Raiders argue that the $9.55 million they're demanding back was an advance on Russell's salary for the 2011 and 2012 seasons. He'll no longer be playing for the Raiders those seasons, they want the salary advances back, and so it's not just sour grapes.
Well, it is too sour grapes of the most obvious order. But you cannot win in court if you admit that.
Longtime NFL agent Andrew Brandt explains on the National Football Post how the Raiders do plan to win in court. The Raiders restructured Russell's contract in 2009 via a complex salary advance procedure called "superseding".
Brandt's explanations here are the gold standard of NFL contract analysis. If you really want to understand the details of this JaMarcus vs. the Raiders contract battle royale, you need to not just read this article, but read it over three times.
"The Raiders superseded Russell's contract in February 2009, not changing the total amounts but changing the structure slightly," Brandt explains. "They had paid him a $19.9M salary advance prior to the supersede and paid out a $3.44M signing bonus following the supersede."
Whether that $19.9 million is legally considered a "salary advance" or an "option bonus" is the heart of this dispute, because the $9.5 million comes from that pot.
There is a small precedent here. The Denver Broncos sued Ashley Lelie after they cut him to recoup a similar bonus, and the Broncos won that case.
But that was a fight over $600,000. Russell and the Raiders are duking out over nearly $10 million here.
Even if the Raiders lose this case, they can still win. Remember that Russell has more than $3 million in guaranteed 2010 salary still owed to him by the Raiders.
JaMarcus Russell is more likely to win the Boston Marathon than he is to get yet another $3 million out of the Raiders. This grievance may be the first step toward "We drop the $9.5 million grievance, you stop asking for the $3 million we still owe you, let's call it even."
After all, does anyone really believe that JaMarcus Russell still even has $9.55 million left to his name?
Joe Kukura is a freelance writer who would believe that JaMarcus still has a $9.55 million tab at The Palms Buffet & Casino before he believed that JaMarcus has $9.55 million left in his bank account.
Copyright FREEL - NBC Local Media


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Board of Trustees » Student Representative
Student Representative
CURRENT TERM 2021-22
Taryn Thomas, Student Board Member
studentboardmember@beaumontusd.k12.ca.us
Taryn Thomas is the newly appointed Student Board Member of the Beaumont Unified School Board, where she is committed to representing the diverse student populace and their concerns to the board. She hopes to accomplish student empowerment and representation in key district decisions. She envisions Beaumont Unified School District to be leading in positive changes and forward progress.
At the school level, she founded the Mental Awareness Group, implementing prevention and early intervention methods for at-risk students, and hosted suicide prevention training. She also serves on the Superintendent's Student Advisory Council, engaging regularly in civic discourse to improve student outcomes. Additionally, she is the Scholarship Chairperson of the National Honor Society.
After being appointed as the Governmental Affairs and Policy Director of California Association of Student Councils (CASC) overseeing Riverside and San Bernardino Counties, she led two overarching civic engagement campaigns: seating student board members in school districts without one and establishing city youth advisory councils. She has authored and initiated the proposal developing the Beaumont Youth Council. Additionally, she serves as the Co-Commissioner of the Riverside County Youth Advisory Council advising Supervisor Jeff Hewit in addressing anticipated needs of youth. Lastly, she serves as a board member of the Redlands Youth Council.
As the student board member, Taryn is focusing on a few key initiatives: racial equity, mental health, school culture, student health and safety.
Taryn is currently a senior at Beaumont High School. She plans to major in Biomedical Sciences with an emphasis on Neuroscience. She is Stanford-bound for the Class of 2026.
Taryn invites all education stakeholders to advocate for the change they want to see in their education system by contacting her via email.
STUDENT BOARD MEMBER APPLICATION INFORMATION
STUDENT BOARD MEMBER APPLICATION
The Board of Trustees believes in enhancing the communication and collaboration with students in order to gain insight into student ideas, perspectives, and feedback on the District's educational programs. The Board also believes in teaching students the importance of civic involvement and supports the participation of a Student Board Member in the District's governance.
Each year, the Board of Trustees shall include a Student Board Member who will be selected through an application and interview process.
Any Beaumont Unified School District high school junior or senior in good standing may apply.
COMMITMENT AND TERMS
The Student Board Representative will:
(1) Attend monthly and bi-monthly Beaumont USD Board meetings.
(2) Study Board agendas and come to Board meetings prepared with feedback on student-related topics.
(3) Serve as the student voice for the school District.
(3) Prepare a presentation on monthly school site events and activities.
(4) Serve on the Superintendent's Student Advisory Council, which meets every two months.
We will select two students per school year. Each student will serve a semester as Board Representative.
Juniors and seniors interested in serving as Student Board Members for the 2021-22 school year are encouraged to apply by filling out the following online application: APPLY HERE.
APPLICATIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED STARTING MONDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2021
Email the application to fzabata@beaumontusd.k12.ca.us or send a signed paper copy to Francinni Zabata, Communication Officer, Educational Support Facility, 350 W. Brookside Avenue, Beaumont, CA 92223.
THE APPLICATION DEADLINE IS 4:30 P.M. ON FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2021
*LATE AND INCOMPLETE APPLICATIONS SUBMITTED AFTER THE DEADLINE WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED*
SELECTION & APPOINTMENT PROCESS
All applications received by the deadline will be reviewed and finalists will be selected and invited to interview in person. The finalists will be interviewed by the Student Board Member Selection Committee, which consists of Beaumont Unified School District Board Members, the Superintendent, Cabinet Members, and the Communication Officer.
The selection committee will choose the student who will serve as the Beaumont Unified School District Student Board Member. An alternate will be selected if the Student Board Member is unable to serve their term.
The selected Student Board Member will be presented to the Board of Trustees, the Superintendent, and the public at the Tuesday, December 14, 2021, Board meeting. Applicants will receive notification of the final selection before the Board meeting.
If you have any questions, please contact Francinni Zabata, Communication Officer at fzabata@beaumontusd.k12.ca.us
350 Brookside Ave., Beaumont, CA 92223 Phone: 951-845-1631
The Beaumont Unified School District prohibits, during all school activities, programs, and employment, discrimination, harassment, intimidation, and bullying based on actual or perceived ancestry, age, color, disability, gender, gender identity, gender expression, nationality, race or ethnicity, religion, sex, sexual orientation , or association with a person or a group with one or more of these actual or perceived characteristics.


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"State of the Media" Update #5
As part of our Media the Way It Should Be® mantra, Media Bridge is keeping a close watch on Americans' changing media habits. As we source new data from various media and research organizations, we'll synthesize it here to help you make smart, informed media-buying decisions.
SmartInsights.com has published a massive compilation of valuable social media research, both global and domestic. Among the highlights:
More than half of the world now uses social media.
Of the 4.6 billion people who use the internet, nearly 350 million have come online just within the last year.
99% of social media users around the world access those sites via mobile device.
Facebook is still the world's most widely used platform, but TikTok has entered the conversation, and Reddit actually has more active monthly users than Twitter and Pinterest.
In the U.S., Facebook and Instagram are the most used social platforms. IG's engagement rates are higher, but Fb users post more often.
Facebook and Instagram are particularly good for marketing to millennials and Gen Zers.
Connected TV/OTT
A recent study from Nielsen shows that ad-supported video streaming is far outpacing big-name subscription (non-ad supported) services like Netflix and Amazon. Streaming consumption across the board is up over 74% from last year. In Q2 2020, Americans watched more than 142 billion minutes of streaming video. Importantly, the year-over-year growth in minutes watched outside of Netflix, Hulu, Amazon, Disney+ and YouTube was more than 57%, accounting for more than 12 billion minutes.
Traditional TV
According to Comscore, TV sets in use (SIUs) are back to February levels nationally. SIUs peaked the week of March 23-29 in the heart of lockdowns, remained high for the next month, then gradually declined in late April. In late June, they approached pre-pandemic levels, then finally reached them in July. With the weather turning colder now, we'll watch to see if those levels rise even further in the fall and winter.
Audio Streaming/Radio
According to Nielsen's Total Audience Report: Work from Home Edition, 75% of people listen to music while working from home at least once a week, and 40% tune in daily—the highest share percentage of media-related activity for any media outlet. AM/FM radio remains the most popular, reaching over 90% U.S. adults each week. In addition, Nielsen also reports that radio's weekly reach is now within four percentage points of its March levels.
Outdoor advertising represents another story of recovery. According to Outfront, the U.S. as a whole is now back to 85% of average impressions on outdoor advertising since the National Emergency was declared on March 14th. In Minnesota, the number is 96%, and for the entire Midwestern region, it's 98%— nearly back to "pre-pandemic" norms.
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Look for additional updates as more information becomes available. Media Bridge will always do our best to deliver More Bang for Your Media Buck!
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In my end-of-day wanderings through the park, I often think of Andrew Marvell's amazing 17th century "Baby, let's get it on!" poem, "To His Coy Mistress." Not that I'm thinking of a person, but rather of the underlying theme of mortality. We each of us have a limited time on this earth, so let us carpe the diem and do some worthwhile things. For me, that worthwhile thing is photography and connecting with people. Wait, that's two worthwhile things! And I get to do them at the same time! Two birds, one camera!
Sunday afternoon, after the rain (and even a bit of snow), the wind blew, and blew, and the last remnants of winter seemed to be blown away. By the World's Fair pavilion, the tulips rejoiced, silver linden, white redbud and red crabapple blossomed along the sidewalks, and between the staircases a host of golden daffodils fluttered and danced in the breeze.
As part of my year of serendipitous discovery in America's premier urban park, I make an effort to leave no part of the park uncovered. I have, I think, walked every single part of the park in my previous inspection tours, and this year should not be different.


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Epstein girlfriend Ghislaine Maxwell pictured at burger bar in first public sighting since financier's death
The "missing" former girlfriend of Jeffrey Epstein and the woman accused of recruiting young women for him – claims she has strongly denied – has been spotted eating at a fast food restaurant in Los Angeles.In the days since the death of the disgraced financier, accused of sex trafficking young girls, much attention has focused on the whereabouts of socialite Ghislaine Maxwell, daughter of the late press baron Robert Maxwell, and Epstein's longtime confidante. Reports suggested she was living in France or elsewhere in Europe, or even in Massachusetts.The matter now seems to have been at least party cleared up after a tabloid newspaper published a picture of her taken in an unlikely location."Well, I guess this is the last time I'll be eating here," the 57-year-old is said to have remarked after being snapped at an In-N-Out restaurant in Los Angeles, according to the New York Post.The newspaper claimed Ms Maxwell was enjoying a burger, fries and a shake, while she sat reading The Book of Honour: The Secret Lives and Deaths of CIA Operatives, a 2000 nonfiction bestseller by journalist Ted Gup.While Ms Maxwell has never been charged with any crimes relating to Epstein's alleged actions in Florida and New York, this week one of his accusers filed a lawsuit against her, alleging she conspired with members of the disgraced financier's household staff "to make possible and otherwise facilitate the sexual abuse and rape" the alleged victim she said she endured in 2002 at the age of 15.Three years ago, she was sued for defamation by another of Epstein's alleged victims, Virginia Giuffre, for calling allegations against her "obvious lies". The case was settled out of court for an undisclosed sum. Ms Giuffre had said that she was groomed from the age of 15 by Ms Maxwell and forced to have sex with Epstein and several powerful men, all of whom have denied the allegations.The public sighting of Ms Maxwell comes as two women who said they were recruited 15 years ago to provide massages to Epstein, only to be later sexually molested by him at his Manhattan mansion, filed a $100m (£82.3m) lawsuit against the financier's estate. The lawsuit filed on Thursday night in Manhattan is at least the second against the estate over the 66-year-old's alleged misconduct, following his 10 August 10 death of an apparent suicide. Lawyers who represented Epstein did not immediately respond on Friday to requests for comment. The plaintiffs, identified as Jane Doe 1 and Jane Doe 2, said they now live in Okinawa, Japan, and Baltimore. > Jeffrey Epstein's gal pal Ghislaine Maxwell spotted at In-N-Out Burger in first photos since his death https://t.co/ZeGqWbvFKx pic.twitter.com/cmJC07v5qm> > — New York Post (@nypost) > > August 15, 2019Prior to his death, Epstein had pleaded not guilty in July to charges of sex trafficking involving dozens of underage girls from 2002 and 2005. Prosecutors said he recruited and paid girls to give him massages, which became sexual in nature. Attorney general William Barr said the government will continue its investigation into any possible co-conspirators.He has also ordered a probe into how Epstein was able to kill himself, while supposedly being under a routine of close monitoring at the New York jail where he was being held awaiting trial. There has been a flood of conspiracy theories about Epstein's death since he was found a day after fresh documents about the accusations against him were unsealed by a court. Among those to spread such theories has been Donald Trump, who was once a regular associate of Epstein, and who in 2002 told a magazine he was "a terrific guy". An autopsy of Epstein found that his neck had been broken in several places, two law enforcement sources said. Epstein had been alone in his cell when he was found hanging there. He had previously been on suicide watch.Additional reporting by Reuters
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During the 2016 election the conservative LGBT organization declined to endorse him for president. Posts from the same category: Ghislaine Maxwell moved to Brooklyn detention centre ahead of bail hearing Ghislaine Maxwell argues for $5 million bail, saying she's 'not Jeffrey Epstein' Jeffrey Epstein dies in apparent suicide in New York jail Jeffrey Epstein death: Two guards 'fell asleep' then falsified records after inmate removed from paedophile financier's cell Jeffrey Epstein's death is a perfect storm for conspiracy theories Also, do not miss the following articles:How Folic Acid Benefits Pregnant WomenSlow DigestionCan You Pass an Interviewer's Interrogation?Avoid These Foods to […]
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This 3 Days Suzhou Huangshan Scenic Tour is definitely a lifetime travel experience trip. You will not only visit the Chinese classic gardens, historical sites of Suzhou, the heaven on earth, also explore amazing essence of Huangshan Mountain, one of the most impressive scenic highlights in China that noted for its lofty peaks and steep valleys. Just come and join us.
In the morning, our tour guide will pick you up at your hotel or Suzhou train station, you will find a welcome signage "Suzhou Private Tour". And your tour includes the following activities.
Enjoy lunch at a local Chinese restaurant that serve Suzhou authentic food. After lunch, pay a visit to Hanshan Temple (Cold Mountain Temple) near the town of Fengqiao. Made famous in a poem by Tang Dynasty poet Zhang Ji, this Buddhist temple is known for its large bells, unique black roof and domed bridge. Take a wander around its halls, pavilions, corridors and well-maintained gardens. A good place to let your mind and body rest.
For an authentic taste of city life in old Suzhou, a stroll down Pingjiang Historical Street, which is a great way to get acquainted with the local vibe. Quiet, leafy and slow-paced, the street is lined with old Chinese houses as well as restaurants and teahouses serving traditional foods and drinks. What's more, there are a variety of upscale cafes catering to the chic crowd at each corner. You can taste a few traditional Chinese snacks while your guide tells you more about the history of the street.
The last stop is Suzhou No. 1 Silk Mill, has a long and rich history of silk culture, including mulberry tree and silk worm cultivation and turning raw silk into beautiful fabric. Suzhou's climate and soil are perfect for silk production, and the city has been a center of China's silk trade for many centuries. The Suzhou No. 1 Silk Mill has been a proud steward of this heritage for over 80 years. It's more like a museum which shows you how the silk is made from cocoons from the begining and the whole silk process. Not to be missed.
After breakfast, ou driver will meet you at your hotel lobby and drive you to the Suzhou train station for your train to Huangshan. After arrived in Huangshan (around 3.5 hrs), our local tour guide will pick you up at the exit with a welcome signage "Huangshan Private Tour".
You will be taken to Huangshan Mountain ( about 1 hour), upon on your arrival, take the cable car to the top of the Huangshan mountain.
Firstly, visiting the Beginning-to-believe Peak, where you can find many ancient pine trees, 1668 meters above the sea level, is the fifteenth of the thirty-six minor peaks of Mount Huangshan. Its fancy name comes from this story. Many years ago someone wandered to this place on his way back from the Cloud Valley Temple and was immediately stunned by its unworldly landscape. He then improvised a couplet: "Inexplicable, unbelievable; admirable, no idea until arrival" The peak has many bizarre-shaped pines. As a saying goes, "One wont see the best of the Mount Huangshan pines until they come to the Begin-to-Believe Peak".
Then move to the Brush Pen Peak. Enjoy the sunset glow at the Cloud-dispelling Pavilion in the evening. Stay overnight at the summit.The Cloud-dispelling Pavilion is about 1 kilometer north of Flying-over Rock, which is the best place for admiring the unique rocks of West Sea in Huangshan Mountain, hence the name of Unique Rock Exhibition Hall. The pavilion was set up in 1935, located in the gate of West Sea. When clouds wind around, tier upon tier of mountains appear and disappear now and then, which look like numerous islands on the boundless sea. The marvelous scenery is very wonderful and majestic.
In the early morning, try to get up early to catch the magical sunrise view on Huangshan Mountain or Yellow Mountain. After breakfast, you will visit Bright Summit, the second highest on the mountain and seeFlying-over Rock.
To the northwest of Brightness Summit lies the famous Rock from the sky, or the Peach of Immortality Rock when it is seen from the Unity Pine. This monolith, 12 meters high, 7.5 meters wide, 1.5-2.5 meters thick and 350 tons in weight, was erected hazardously on a flat-headed cliff, which is 12-15 meters long and 8-10 meters wide at the top. Only nature had the power to do this. So locals have passed down this story: When Nuwa(goddess who patched up the sky and created human beings) smelted the ores to patch up the sky, two were left behind. One turned into the jade that Jia Baoyu (leading character in the classic A Dream of Red Mansions) had in his mouth at birth; and the other became the Rock from the Sky. The opposite Twin Scissors and Twin Bamboo Shoots peaks consititute a marvelous lanscape.
Later, take a cable car down to the mountain. Then back to downtown of Huangshan City, After Lunch,head to Tunxi Ancient Street, an ancient commercial street in center of Tunxi Town. You can explore some interesting things here,and also have chance to visit a Ink-stick Workshop to learn how the famous Hui Ink is made.
After the tour ends, drive you back to Huangshan train station for your next destination and your tour ends.


We no longer have our toll free number. We decided it was not beneficial to have one so we shut it off. We still have our primary and secondary numbers. You can reach us on our primary number which is 307-222-9877 or our secondary number which is 307-223-1112. If we see a need for a toll free number in the future we will get one then.


Representing Direct Group in a number of claims by senior employees against our client for dismissals which involved claims for significant incentive payments as well as compensation for moral injury. All disputes were resolved in our client's favor.
Successful settlement of labor disputes involving a major clothes manufacturer and its employees, who had been dismissed due to the employer's decision and under redundancy procedures. In addition, further representation of the client in court concerning allegations of using leverage over an employee resulting in dismissal.
Successful representation of a major international trading company in a dispute challenging the dismissal of an employee on the grounds of discrimination and coercion. As the result, employee's claim was rejected by the court.
Representation of an international company in a dispute with one of the senior regional managers. The dispute was settled amicably, with no compensation deducted from the client. The dispute was related to dismissal due to the loss of confidence in the employee.
Representation of a major Russian company in a dispute with a Chief accountant for recovery of unpaid wages.
Drafting of legal opinions for Panalpina Group, Yokogawa and Metro Cash & Carry on various employment matters, including those on available grounds and procedure for disciplinary and criminal action against employees under the Russian legislation, in relations between employer and employees who have children under 3 years old and consulting on the issue of establishment of different working hours for employees.
Advising international companies on preparation of motivation and bonus programs for senior management.
Advising on complex procedures relating to dismissals of employees and senior managers of international and Russian companies, including JDA, Qliktech, Quantel and Global Jet.
Assistance on redundancy procedures for Russian and international companies.
Assistance for Russian companies in relations with trade unions during examinations initiated by trade unions.
Representation of the Employer in the commission for the investigation of an accident at work.


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Q: How to account for similarities in features when clustering? I have survey data from students who were asked to rate (yes/no) if a math equation was useful for a set of four educational purposes. Students were ask to answer this survey for five different math equations and they make up two groups based off of when they are taught in traditional course sequences.
I'd like to see how students' responses group together, so I'm planning on using some type of cluster analysis. However, I'm worried about the boolean nature of the data and the fact that students were asked about the same set of educational purposes for five different math equations. Maybe there is a relationship between subsets of student responses?
My question is, would it still be appropriate to do a cluster analysis given that my data is boolean and that there's a possible relationship between the features? If not, is there something more appropriate to get an understanding of what is the range of student thought across equations and educational purposes?

A: You can cluster with binary variables. For example hierarchical clustering with Jaccard index. But that needs to be carefully chosen.
I don't think you have a clustering problem. You seem to already have two groups, and you'll want to test if their answers differ significantly or not.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


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Home News Scottish News Mother who shopped son for killing reveals they are reconciled
Mother who shopped son for killing reveals they are reconciled
By Joe Stenson -
A SCOTS mother who shopped her own son to the police for a brutal killing has revealed that he has forgiven her from behind bars.
Margaret Anderson, 53, recognised the description of her son in a Crimewatch TV reconstruction of a robbery-gone-wrong in 2012.
Torn by her instinct as a mother and her duty to uphold the law the mum-of-four emailed police – landing her son Lee in prison for 15 years.
But now she has spoken out about how her decision to turn him in was the right one – and how they are reconciled despite her son still serving his lengthy sentence.
Margaret's agonising decision began when she watched an episode of BBC Crimewatch – featuring a reconstruction of the fatal stabbing of a local shopkeeper in his store.
Margaret Anderson
Javaid Ali, 48, was found by customers on the floor of his Paisley cornershop with a severed artery in his neck – dying later from brain damage in hospital.
60 officers investigated the death and a £50,000 reward was offered to those coming forward with information – but after a series of dead-ends officers had turned to Crimewatch to appeal for witnesses.
Margaret said: "I watched the episode and as soon as I saw the reconstruction I froze.
"I recognised the clothing. It was the kind of thing Lee would wear and the man had the same kind of physical features."
She described her agony in sending the email that would land her son behind bars: "I thought should I? Should I not? I was fighting with myself.
"I wondered was it the right thing to do or not? But in the end I decided, yes, this is the right thing to do.
"Afterwards different thoughts were going through my head. What will people think of me? Lee will probably hate me. I never spoke to anyone about it.
"I just sat in the house for a couple of days. I never told anyone, not even my finance. Then, when I heard nothing back, I thought that was it."
Lee Anderson
But just days later her 33 year-old son made a jokey confession to her in their kitchen.
"We were in the kitchen. I had gone in to put the kettle on to make a cup of tea. I was at the washing machine, taking the clothes out. And he said, 'It was me.'
"I got a fright. I was, like, what? And he started laughing. And I said, 'That's not funny.' He never said, 'Mum, I killed him.'"
Weeks later police arrived at her door to talk about her online tip-off, and she broke down and told officers about his kitchen confession.
Lee was charged with murder – but after he denied it a jury at Glasgow's High Court found him guilty of culpable homicide and sentenced him to 15 years in September 2013.
In the trial it emerged that Lee had robbed Mr Ali to fund his heroin habit.
Margaret added: "I was shocked. I know I did the right thing within the law, but my own conscience is torn.
"That shopkeeper was an innocent man though, and he deserved justice. I just wish it hadn't been my son who was the perpetrator."
Now she has revealed how she has been able to rebuild her relationship with her son from behind bars.
Lee is currently serving his time at Shotts prison in Lanarkshire, but Margaret says they speak regularly on the phone.
Lee in his younger years
"Just last night on the phone he said to me, 'We don't play the blame game', she said.
"It seems like we're more loving now he's in jail. It's like we're talking more about things.'
She explained that since she split with his father shortly after Lee's birth, he had been in regular trouble and had begun taking drugs in his teenage years.
"He's been in and out of custody from when he was 13.
"Even when he was in primary school I was being called in about every two days to deal with him", she added, "They said he was being disruptive.
"But I've always been there for him, no matter what his problems. There was a lot of arguing – he was an angry boy.
"A lot of the times he was arrested it was me who phoned the police."
Margaret, a former cleaner with health issues added: "He's been seeing a psychologist since he's been in.
"I am hoping he will be able to rebuild his life – and that I will be a part of it."
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Joe Stenson
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http://www.deadlinenews.co.uk/2015/09/13/mother-who-shopped-son-for-killing-reveals-they-are-reconciled/


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George Lekakis about community and government strategy
George Lekakis.
George Lekakis comments on the community and government strategy in relation to One Nation
Lekakis:
We led every rally. We were really alarmed by what was going on it was shattering to see years of great work – that this ugly reality was starting to – okay people talk about the opinion leaders and – they have specific terms about criticising multiculturalism and the left and this, that and the other but for me, it was just strange that all those ugly things I hated about what I heard at school – and we usually attributed those comments to young men who – and there were very few of them, we had only one – I won't mention his name, but we only had one fellow in the whole school who dared speak about Hitler and denigration of particular groups of people and –
And the same characteristics that this guy had and the same angst that all of us used to pour on him as a group in class, started to emerge in the Australian reality. But we, again had a lot of networks in Victoria. So we were able to mobilise, if you went to Northcote, there was – there were people mobilised, ready to letterbox everybody, you know. "Put Hanson last," in the first Northcote bi-election. We mobilised the local ECC and everybody else, we letterboxed – for us, it was clear, there was a clear – it came to a demarcation line, this was not a nice thing to hear.
Asians have been here from the beginning of time, whether they were here before Captain Cook, one questions that and recent evidence by some of my Indian community colleagues might bring up evidence that suggests otherwise, but Asians were here, the Chinese, treatment of the Chinese at the turn of the century and during the gold rush period, that was pretty poor call that – the Asians and the xenophobia that was levelled against them at a time when they were thriving communities and doing such good in Victoria. We had the Vietnamese communities taking hold in our precincts. I just felt this was pretty bad. And we rallied.
I'll never forget the Horsham night. I was asked to speak at the Horsham Hall –Town Hall, with a whole lot of community led meeting – public meeting – and I went to address them and on the other side of Horsham was Pauline and her group. And the media seemed to follow Pauline rather than the concerned councillors. And I said on that night, "At least in Victoria, we have a political leader that stands up to Pauline Hanson and his name's Jeff Kennett." And people went – you know, some of the people afterwards, "How dare you mention Jeff?" Look he's standing up against her and we're the only state in Victoria that is doing that.
But everywhere she went, as soon as it was announced that she'd go to Geelong or go somewhere, people would ring up, the whole community was mobilised and we had a huge demonstration here, for 60, 70,000 people led by the trades hall, ourselves and a whole lot of others. Harkin (sp?) was organising that and – and my I say, Lee Hubbard played a great role at that time. They could have easily said, "Look.." Trade union movement could have said, "No. We're not part of this." But they took side with us. We mobilised lots of people and they also took side about the refugee debate. Up until the time Sharon Burrows got on the back of a truck in front of the State Library and called for the Howard Government for better treatment of refugees, the Labor Party were silent.
Then we had Labor for refugees, then we had motions in conference, then we had the Julia Gillard shadow immigration minister's statements, we had Crean in Brisbane on Australia Day and so on and so on and so forth. But before that, the Labor Party was silent. But Sharon coming on the back of the truck, signalled an end. I thought, if you get the trade union movement on side on this, surely it will impact across the rest of Australia. In the same way the Hanson debate changed direction here in Victoria, when we had the trade union movement supporting us and we had 60, 70,000 people turn up at a rally in Melbourne.
So, they were critical times. The networks were strong, the relationships between people and organizations – the State Government was strong, Kennett was strong, everybody was strong.
Chinese settlers and sojourners
Francesca Folk-Scolaro on her family background
Michele Langfield on Italian farmers
George Lekakis about ECCV in relation to John Howard
Bernard Korbman on Holocaust Museum 1984
Melissa Afentoulis on Victoria's reaction to Pauline Hanson
Laura Mecca on Italian Historical Society
Maria Tence on Victoria and Multiculturalism
Nikos Papastergiadis on Citizenship tests
Hurriyet Babacan on Multiculturalism in Victoria in 1970s and 1980s
Maria Tence describes her experience of being Italian in the Catholic school system
Jeff Sparrow on European migration and political radicalism in Australia


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Dr. Martha Funabashi awarded New Frontiers in Research Fund
by MarCom | 23 May 2019
Toronto, ON, Canada, May 23, 2019: CMCC is pleased to announce that CMCC Researcher Dr. Martha Funabashi has been awarded a New Frontiers in Research Fund Award, a Tri-Agency Institutional Programs Secretariat grant (CIHR, NSERC and SSHRC) for early career researchers to conduct international, interdisciplinary, high-risk and high-reward research.
Funabashi's research proposal won the award through the Exploration stream, one of three streams that comprise the New Frontiers in Research Fund, an initiative that enables researchers to work together to solve the world's most pressing issues. It seeks to inspire highly innovative projects that defy current research paradigms, propose a unique scientific direction, bring disciplines together beyond the traditional disciplinary approaches, and/or use different perspectives to solve existing problems.
"The award of this grant signals a recognition of the importance of chiropractic research within a broad scientific milieu," says Vice President, Academic, Dr. Christine Bradaric-Baus, "I am excited to see this support of Dr. Funabashi's important research, which will further clarify the safety of spinal manipulation for patients with disc herniation."
Low back pain is currently the lead cause of disabilities worldwide. Spinal manipulative therapy (SMT) is a popular option for people with low back pain with increasing scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness for these patients, which includes patients with lumbar disc herniation. This study seeks to provide high-quality evidence regarding SMT's safety for lumbar disc herniation patients, significantly contributing to the evidence-based management of lumbar disc herniation.
Funabashi was originally trained as a physiotherapist, and subsequently earned a master's degree in neuroscience and a PhD in Rehabilitation Sciences. Her research will focus on the effects of spinal manipulation therapy on intervertebral discs and is entitled: Spinal manipulation therapy causes lumbar disc herniation: myth or fact? She will be working with Dr. Dhara Amin a mechanical engineer with a PhD in biomedical engineering, Dr. John Costi, a mechanical engineer with a PhD in biomechanics and Dr. Greg Kawchuk, a chiropractor with a PhD in bioengineering. Amin and Costi are at Flinders University in Adelaide, Australia and Kawchuk is at the University of Alberta, in Edmonton.
The Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College is recognised for creating leaders in spinal health. With graduates practicing in over 37 countries and faculty who are leaders in their fields, CMCC delivers world class chiropractic education, research, and patient care. The campus features modern teaching and laboratory space, including new simulation and biomechanics laboratories, and is extended across Toronto through its network of community based interprofessional clinics that serve diverse patient populations. CMCC offers a four-year undergraduate program leading to a Doctor of Chiropractic Degree. This degree program is offered under the written consent of Ontario's Minister of Training, Colleges and Universities for the period from 24/3/11 to 24/3/21.


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'Jerusalem,' which had its world premiere last week at Boston's Museum of Science, uses cutting-edge cinematography to immerse the audience in the ancient city's historic sites from rarely seen perspectives.
Five years in the making, the first IMAX film ever made about Jerusalem is as much a visual tour de force as a marvel of cultural diplomacy.
"Jerusalem," which had its world premiere last week at Boston's Museum of Science, uses cutting-edge cinematography to immerse the audience in the ancient city's historic sites from rarely seen perspectives.
Over the course of 45 minutes, viewers are treated to rare aerial views of the Old City as Jews gather at the Western Wall for the priestly blessing, Christian pilgrims march down the Via Dolorosa and Muslims gather at the Al-Aqsa Mosque on the first Friday of Ramadan.
Footage of the annual Ceremony of the Holy Fire, held at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre during the Orthodox Easter celebrations, sets the screen aglow with dazzling light.
Distributed by National Geographic Entertainment, the film, narrated by the British actor Benedict Cumberbatch, will show on IMAX screens and in digital 3-D cinemas across the United States in the coming weeks.
Gaining access to some of the world's most sensitive and contested locations was a test of devotion and artful negotiations that took the film's three producers and a team of advisers years to accomplish. Preparations required dozens of meetings with Israeli and Palestinian officials, the Israeli army and the many clerics who control the city's religious sites.
Filming from a low-altitude helicopter in the Old City of Jerusalem's strict no-fly zone required a permit that had not been granted in more than 20 years, the filmmakers said, and acquiring the permit took eight months of negotiations.
In advance of the shooting, producers took out ads in the major Hebrew- and Arabic-language newspapers to notify residents about the helicopter filming.
"There was nothing that was not complicated," Taran Davies, one of the film's producers, said at the premiere.
Even the terrestrial shots were difficult to carry off. For the scene filmed at the Western Wall, an IMAX camera was mounted on a crane above the crowds. To film the fire ceremony, producers secured permission from the six entities that share authority over the church.
The most challenging authorization by far was for the Muslim Noble Sanctuary, known by Jews as the Temple Mount, which required permission from the Islamic custodial body, the religious affairs ministry in Jordan and Israeli security forces.
A critical figure in helping the producers navigate the logistical maze was Ido Aharoni, now Israel's consul general in New York. Aharoni first learned about the film six years ago when he directed Brand Israel, a project to promote Israel around the world.
Aharoni recognized the potential of portraying the country's historical and cultural gems in such a visually powerful medium. IMAX films also typically screen in museums and can run for years.
The film's mesmerizing visuals are woven into a narrative propelled by the voices of three teenage Jerusalemite women — Jewish, Christian and Muslim. Fluent in English, the women offer eloquent descriptions of the deep religious, cultural and family ties that bind them and their respective religions to their home city.
Though the film was carefully planned down to the last minute and camera angle, Daniel Ferguson, the film's producer, writer and director, told JTA the teens' words were their own.
The voices of the women are supplemented by that of Jodi Magness, an archaeologist at the University of North Carolina, who guides viewers through an ancient tunnel and visits active excavation sites that continue to unearth the history of the land.
The filmmakers took great pains to balance the presentation of all three religions, according to George Duffield, another producer with longstanding ties to Israel. He and Ferguson say they were at times pressed to take a position on controversial or political issues, but insisted on neutrality.
The producers hope the film can be used to promote tolerance and understanding. Profits will be donated to the Jerusalem Foundation and the Hebrew University of Jerusalem to underwrite projects that benefit all residents of Jerusalem.


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One way to make the most use of the space on your shelves and in your cabinets is to be able to see everything. When you can see what you have it prevents over buying and clutter.
Here is a simple solution to this problem. Install pull out drawers inside your cabinets and shelves. These drawers will keep bathrooms, kitchens, pantries and closets organized.
You can purchase them at any home improvement store and install them yourself or there are companies like Shelf Genie that will come and install them for you.
A simple change can make a big difference on getting organized and staying organized.
Most people hate to do laundry. I don't think it is the task of putting clothes in the washer and dryer but the concept of getting the clothes into the laundry room, folding and putting away the clothes that makes laundry a chore.
One way to make laundry easier is to choose the right basket. My favorite is the Rubbermaid Flex 'n Carry basket. The fexible handles fold together which makes carrying laundry so much easier. I own four of these baskets and I cannot tell you how invaluable they have been to me throughout the years. My clients will tell you I always show up to their homes with three of these baskets for sorting and organizing.
They are great for college students. I moved my own daughter to college with three of these baskets. Once the baskets were unloaded I would leave her with one and it was always returned back to me filled with dirty clothes.
Get your kids to help you with laundry by leaving one in each room/bathroom for dirty laundry. The flexible handles make it easy for kids to carry to the laundry room.
Use them all summer long to hold clean or dirty beach towels. They are also great for storing frequently used beach toys in the summer. Use a hose and rinse the sand out when we you are finished.
Pack them when you go on vacation by car and use them for dirty clothes on the trip home.
Clean the baskets with disinfecting wipes and they look brand new. If you own more than one like me they stack for easy storage. I have had mine for years and they are indestructible.
I don't think this basket will make you want to miss a night out with friends to stay home and do laundry but anything that can make laundry less of a chore is worth sharing.