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Tonkatsu, Chicken katsu or Anything-Katsu is a Japanese fried food made with Panko breadcrumbs. Lighter, crispier and flakier Panko will bring ordinary breaded food into Japanese restaurant quality territory. You don't have Panko in your pantry? No problems. Let's make it.
What is Panko?
Panko is basically bread crumbs. It is a Japanese word. "Pan" is bread and "Ko" means flour, meal, dust or powder. Genuine Japanese panko crumbs are made from Japanese white bread called "Shokupan" without crust.
Panko vs Bread crumbs
So what is the difference between Panko and Breadcrumbs? Because Japanese panko is made from white bread without crust, it is lighter and flakier in texture and more coarse than regular breadcrumbs. Also because it is made from bread without crust, it is more white in colour as opposed to brownish breadcrumbs. Thus it absorbs less oil and grease and makes deep fried foods less heavy.
Where to buy Panko?
Since more people know about Panko and it gained popularity, it is available from major supermarkets. Major brands that make Panko are Kikkoman and Progresso. Also they are available from any Asian/Japanese markets. It is kind of dried food so is available Online too.
How to make it at home
Depending on where you live, it may be difficult to find these special breadcrumbs at your local supermarket. The good news is that it is quite simple and easy to make and you only require one ingredient; white bread. It does not have to be Japanese bread. I made it from a cheap white bread loaf that I bought from a local supermarket.
1. Taking moisture out of the bread
The first step of making homemade bread crumbs is to remove moisture out of bread. You can do this by leaving slices of bread for a few days on the kitchen bench without any cover, using microwave for a couple of minutes or using frozen bread.
2. Making the bread into crumbs
There are a couple ways to do this process. One way is to use a grater or you can use a food processor. I have made mine with both methods and find the end result is not much different. So using a food processor is less effort but if you don't have a food processor, you can use a grater.
Is Panko Gluten Free?
No, as you can see. It is made from wheat bread therefore it is not gluten free. However, you can make gluten free Panko breadcrumbs using gluten free bread.
Panko Crusted Japanese recipes to try
Tonkatsu (deep fried pork) Chicken Katsu (deep fried chicken) Katsu Sando Kushi Katsu Japanese potato croquette (Korokke) Japanese pork cutlets(Hire Katsu) Baked Tonkatsu Katsudon Miso Katsudon Chicken Katsu Curry
Other uses of Panko
Although predominantly used in making Japanese deep fried dishes, it makes perfect toppings for macaroni cheese and many casserole dishes. Also it is often used as a binding agent for hamburgers and meatloaves.
How to store the panko bread crumbs
If you make it bulk and have some left over, place the breadcrumbs in a ziplock bag. It will store for about a month in the freezer.
Stay Connected
If you like the recipe please rate the recipe and leave comments below. Also don't forget to follow me on Youtube, Pinterest, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. This way you keep up to date with all the latest happenings on Chopstick Chronicles. Don't forget to Sign up for a weekly newsletter so you never miss out on new authentic delicious Japanese recipes! Sign up form is on the right-hand sidebar.
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The site and our mobile application may contain links to affiliate websites. We receive a small affiliate commission for any purchases made by you on the affiliate website using such links.
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- a greater or a food processor
- 6 slices white bread *1
- Leave slices of white bread on a tray without any cover on kitchen bench for a few day. *2
- When the bread dried out, make crumbs using a grater or pulse in a food processor until it makes coarse breadcrumbs.


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Part I:
What is the CCPA, and Why Should I Care?
The California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) is a wide-ranging privacy law that will come into effect in a bit over eight months. For-profit businesses with (even attenuated) ties to California, the fifth-largest economy in the world, should start to prepare for this sea change in United States privacy law.
Over the next few weeks, we will be providing a series of articles about the CCPA and what you should be doing to prepare. This week, we start with the most basic: What is the CCPA, and why should I care?
What is the CCPA?
The CCPA regulates how businesses collect, use and disclose just about any kind of information that can be related to an individual. Despite an effective date of January 1, 2020, the CCPA remains a work in progress: parts of the law remain ambiguous; key regulatory guidance is still missing; and the law itself is likely to be amended in the near future.
Recent experience with the EU's General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) shows that it takes time, forethought and preparation to address this sort of broad privacy regulation. Waiting until there is certainty as to what the law requires will not provide enough time for compliance, so it is important to get started.
So Why Should I Care?
The CCPA regulates common business practices across a range of industries, imposes new consumer protections and compliance challenges, and creates new and significant potential liability. These include:
- A class-action-friendly private right of action, with minimum statutory damages ($100-$750 per affected California resident) for failure to maintain "reasonable" security standards in the event of a data breach (and, if proposed amendments pass, for any violation of the CCPA). Unless there are significant changes to the law, it could spawn the next wave of class action claims.1
- Attorney general enforcement authority, with maximum civil fines of $2,500 per "violation" and $7,500 for each "intentional" violation.
- The scope of "personal information" protected by the CCPA is extremely broad and reaches throughout a business's operations. "Personal information" includes "information that identifies, relates to, describes, is capable of being associated with, or could reasonably be linked, directly or indirectly, with a particular [California resident] or household."
Further, despite the name, the CCPA doesn't just apply to personal information about actual consumers; it also covers personal information of a business's California employees.
- The CCPA applies to a wide range of "businesses," but the definition of "business" can restrict transfers of personal information between affiliates. At first glance, the CCPA seems designed to apply to the major technology companies that collect consumer data. However, as discussed in our next installment, its reach is much broader than that, and could sweep in many companies that would not otherwise expect to be significantly impacted by a California online consumer law.
It is also important to note that because of the limited definition of "business," entities that are "affiliates" under most current legal definitions would only be considered part of the same "business" if they are direct parents or subsidiaries that share common branding. As a result, even transfers of personal information within a corporate family may constitute "sales" of personal information that are subject to consent/opt-out rights, if the transfer is for "valuable consideration."
- The CCPA creates new consumer rights for California residents. Businesses will have to comply with individuals' requests to exercise these rights within 45 days. These rights include:
- A right to opt out of the "sale" of personal information(defined broadly as "selling, renting, releasing, disclosing, disseminating, making available, transferring, or otherwise communicating . . . personal information by the business to another business or a third party for monetary or other valuable consideration"), which limits a wide range of ordinary business activity that was previously minimally regulated;
- Rights of access, transparency and portability (which include a requirement to disclose "the specific pieces of personal information . . . collected" upon request);
- Right of deletion; and right of non-discrimination.
Businesses must respond to these requests within 45 days of receipt, and requests for deletion must be passed to a business's service providers.
- A right to opt out of the "sale" of personal information(defined broadly as "selling, renting, releasing, disclosing, disseminating, making available, transferring, or otherwise communicating . . . personal information by the business to another business or a third party for monetary or other valuable consideration"), which limits a wide range of ordinary business activity that was previously minimally regulated;
- There are specific contractual terms that must be included in your agreements with vendors that process personal information. Failure to include these terms means: (1) you might be subject to liability for the vendor's violation of the CCPA, and (2) transferring personal information to a vendor for valuable consideration could be considered a "sale," imposing additional obligations on you.
- The CCPA is likely only the beginning. Other states are discussing, or have already proposed, broad privacy laws similar to the CCPA and GDPR.2 Federal lawmakers continue to hold hearings on federal privacy legislation. So, even if the CCPA doesn't apply to you today, one of these other laws probably will.
Coming Up Next: "Does the CCPA Affect Me"?
Now that you have an idea of what the CCPA is and why you should care about it, see our next installment for more information about whether the CCPA will affect your organization.
(Spoiler Alert: It probably will.)
1 Note that this breach liability currently only applies to personal information covered by California's data breach notification statutes (e.g. 1798.82)—but California recently proposed legislation to expand those definitions as well.
2 For example, Washington, New Jersey, and Texas, among others, have all proposed privacy legislation that draw upon the CCPA and GDPR.

subset: commoncrawl


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Increasing demand for affordable multi-tenant housing has created a boom in the construction industry. IRONcladCE's residential construction team has the experience and expertise to get you project done right the first time. From new construction to redesign & remodel projects, IRONcladCE can make sure your residents experience nothing but the best.
Multi-family residential homes and apartments have unique needs. The scope of work is far greater than in a single family residence and in almost all cases a specialist is needed to oversee the construction process. With experience in tenant improvements and multi-tenant housing IRONcladCE's construction managers are among the best in the business. IRONcladCE's experts have the skills necessary to ensure your residential construction project is completed on-time and under budget.
Not only is the scope of work on a multi-family building larger than a typical residential project, it is also more complex. In addition to individual living spaces construction managers must oversee common areas such as lobbies, parking lots and stairwells. Navigating city and state regulations for compliance in public areas is a time consuming task, but at IRONcladCE, we've got you covered.
Another important aspect of residential construction management is ensuring that all new construction and redesign meet fire and electrical codes. Our riser management experts design efficient, effective and safe plans so you don't have to worry about the safety of your residents and employees.
As a new tenant in a building, you may have specific cabling needs. We are here to work with you to install a cabling system that meets your individual needs, personalizing your space the way you want it. Once installed, we make sure our work meets the buildings inspection standards. If you are facing a deadline we will do our best to get your building improvements completed before inspections.
Find out what our team of experts can do for you today!
Call Us Now at 1-866-896-7038 or
Completing your project starts with making contact. We'd love to talk with you about your requirements. There is no obligation, no pushy sales people, and no risk to you. We'll do a free assessment and give you ideas on how our experts can help. Call us at 1-866-896-7038 or
IRONcladCE's construction consultants, general contractors and construction managers have the experience and expertise to get you project done right the first time. From new construction to redesign & remodel projects, we've got you covered.
Modern hotels, resorts and restaurants are no longer the cookie cutter designs of the past. IRONcladCE is experienced in all phases of hospitality construction including planning, design management, preconstruction, construction and day-to-day management.
When building a new home or remodeling an existing residence you need to have the luxuries of today and the possibilities of tomorrow. Specializing in high end residential installs IRONcladCE works to build a home capable of meeting today's highest technological standards.
The increasing demand for affordable multi-tenant housing has created a boom in the construction industry. IRONcladCE's residential construction team has the experience and expertise to get your project done right the first time.
We specialize in room additions, rehab projects and complete remodel projects. Trust our experts to create a design to meet your specific needs and your budget by applying our experience and expert knowledge.
At IRONcladCE customer service is top priority. Whether it's a question about our billing process, an inquiry about the construction, engineering or communications services we provide, or you simply want to touch base with your representative, we want to hear from you. Please use this form to contact an IRONcladCE expert and we will do our best to meet your needs.
To speak with a representative directly please call 1-866-896-7038 and for 24 hour emergency services contact our emergency response team.


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Language and literacy development starts from the very beginning. Babies are listening in utero, and once they're born, they're communicating through eye contact, facial expressions, crying, smiles and touch. When adults respond with words, conversation and attention, it helps promote healthy development and learning.
When babies and toddlers hear words and language from caring adults, their brains develop the connections they'll need to learn to use language and, later, to learn how to read. Studies show that children whose parents and caregivers regularly talk and read with them develop larger vocabularies and go on to become better readers and do better in school. That's because the first few years of a child's life are when the brain grows and develops the most.
'Conversation is the Golden Nugget'
What's the best thing parents can do to support their child's development? We asked an expert on how young children learn and develop language skills.
Let's talk about talking
Podcast: Reading, Language and Early Literacy
This episode of the pArentZ pod, the Arizona infant and toddler podcast from First Things First, is all about reading, language and early literacy.
Listen to the podcast
Reading Together Builds Life Skills
More than just learning words and language, reading books with your young child helps them learn to pay attention, set goals and develop self control.
Learn how reading builds more than words
Children's Books Open Up New Worlds
Sharing books with your baby, toddler or preschooler helps spark their curiosity and introduces them to new words.
Read about the joy of reading
The Most Important Skills Kids Need
Communication, reading and writing skills all develop together starting in early childhood and are important for success later in life.
Learn more about language and literacy skills
Raising a Bilingual Child
The best possible time to learn a second language is during early childhood. Bilingualism aids brain development and strengthens cultural connections.
Learn more about learning multiple languages
VIDEO: Reading With Your Baby
Get tips on how to read books with your infant. More than anything, reading together is quality bonding time.
Make the most of reading together
VIDEO: Baby, Let's Talk!
Having back-and-forth conversations with your baby, even before they can talk, helps them learn and develop language.
Get in the game!
Never Too Young to Learn
Your baby arrives ready to learn, so it's never too early to start talking, reading and playing with your newborn.
Watch the video
VIDEO: Reading With Your Toddler
Watch this episode of Parents Playbook for the top 5 tips for reading books with your toddler.
See the Top 5!
VIDEO: Young Children Don't Learn New Words from Screens
Watching television or videos – even programs billed as educational – does not help children under age 2 learn language and literacy skills.
You are your child's best teacher
Parent Kit: Your Toddler Ages 1-2
Between ages 1 and 2, toddlers start to explore their independence. They have strong likes and dislikes and will often say "No!" and "Mine!"
What to expect from a 1 to 2 year-old
For Language Development, Quality Talk Beats Quantity of Words
You've probably been told that the more words your young child hears the better. A recent study takes that a step further, showing that quality talk is better than just quantity.
See why quality beats quantity
Read On Arizona: Smart Talk
Smart Talk is having quality back-and-forth "conversations" with your baby or toddler that promote learning and support later reading success. You don't need special tools or training. Anyone can do it, anywhere, anytime.
Find out about Smart Talk
ZERO TO THREE: Language and Communication
Even before their first words, young children develop their own unique ways of communicating with you. Find videos, articles and other resources about about how language development unfolds.
Learn more from ZERO TO THREE
Talking Matters! Video Series
Looking for even more in-depth information about speech and language development in young children? Watch these videos from the University of Arizona, intended for parents and early childhood educators, including effective strategies and frequently asked questions.
Learn more
First Things First supports the health, development and early learning of Arizona's young children from birth to age 5. We partner with families and communities to help kids have the positive, nurturing experiences they need to arrive at kindergarten ready to succeed. We do this through quality early care and education programs, preventive health efforts, and supporting parents in their role as their child's first teachers.


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Izotope Ozone 5 Advanced mastering software is on the market for a few months, so we draged this new version into our Gearjunkies TechLab for a closer look.
I have been using iZotopes Ozone since version 3. At that time you got a cool shiny full-color box with a CD-rom and a quick start guide, like most software then. Ozone 4 was the logical successor. This version looked nicer and had just a few more options like mid/side techniques and it was available as an upgrade with a reduced price of course.
Now we have already version 5 with yet even more options and features, an even better interface and with a better sound quality. Ozone 5 is available in two version the regular one and the advanced version. On the iZotope website they state: "Your mix isn't finished until Ozone is on it!" Well let's see if there's truth in that statement!
From 4 to 5
As a mastering engineer I used Ozone 4 for stereo imaging, not only to broaden or give the sound more stereo, but even more to give the low end more mono! For each frequency band you can indicate what needs to happen to the stereo image. You can go either way, more stereo or more mono. This last technique I use to get the low end more centered. The EQ I occasionally used to make some minor corrections and the limiter to cut off some small peaks. The mulitband compressor I used rarely and the mastering reverb, well I am still wondering what's the use of that feature. The harmonic exiter is fun, however in the high and mid the sound is pretty harsh and, in my opinion, in the end not usable.
By now you might be wondering, what's so different in Ozone 5 besides the fact it is now available as a VST3 plugin? First off the size of the GUI. On one hand very handy as you have a much better overview, but on the other hand, it is BIG! With my 1600×900 resolution display, half of that is filled with Ozone!
For this review I have used the regular version. To be honest the advanced version costs a little bit too much in contrast to the price for the regular version.
Like in previous versions Ozone is divided in different sections which you can turn on and off. I will discuss and explain more on what these sections do and what the differences are compared to the previous version(s).
The EQ has become a lot better and sounds a bit better as well. Something I noticed right away was the fact that the low end, by using the digital EQ, a nice full and punchy sound got and very usable as well.
Another handy feature is the overview of all your settings per band. The analyzer, visible on the background, can be very useful when looking for a resonance peak for example. Other then that it is a lot of eyecandy because you hear music with your ears, not your eyes. At the high end the EQ sounds equally good. In fact there's nothing wrong with this EQ!
Below the EQ we'll get the reverb. In my opinion you don't need a reverb for mastering! I think this feature won't be used or maybe very rarely, in mastering. Maybe for some mixing purposes, however this plugin is a bit too heavy for that. Something I do like is the fact that you can use the reverb in mid/side mode. Which means you van use the reverb on only your side channel for example.
Harmonic Exiter
As I mentioned before I find the exciter in version 4 a bit too harsh and not very useful. However, in version 5 it has become a lot more subtle and much more useable. Especially in tube mode it sounds very nice and can become a nice tool for giving your high end a 'sparkle' or to pull your mid a bit more to the front if you can't achieve that with the EQ. This 'feature' is nice, very nice from the guys at iZotope! Normally an exciter is a 'no go' in mastering but this one can become very handy maybe…
We have a multiband compressor with 4 bands which can be used in stereo en mid/side mode. Often a multiband compressor is described as a 'must use' in mastering. A description a totally disagree with! I use a multiband compressor rarely, but when I use one it is for example for an 'impatient' bassline going on in all directions. Here a multiband compressor, with just one band, can become a handy tool. The dynamics function of Ozone 5 has a lot of useful options, which in the end makes it a bit cluttered. Of course you could use it as a normal stereo compressor, by using just one band and set the frequencies to broadband. How it sounds? Well, pretty good, but there better software compressors out there.
Stereo Imaging
I often use stereo imaging as a tool to give my low end some more mono. In fact does the stereo imager nothing more then change the balance between your mid and side channel. Only with Ozone 5 you can indicate per frequency band what needs to happen. The cross over frequency is easy to adjust to tell it what needs to happen. When working with this feature I happen to discover a bug. The guys at iZotope picked it up immediately and would get it fixed with the next update. Great work and service by iZotope!
Something I noticed with version 5 is the disappearance of the delay per band. That's a good thing, because in my opinion it created instant phase problems, and with the delays gone that doesn't happen anymore!
Post Equalizer
Hey? Didn't I discuss the EQ already? … Yes I did! But there's one more in here too, which is an exact copy of the mentioned above. But why another EQ then? Well sometimes you'll want another EQ after your compressor, and this way … you can have that!
By the way, if you click on the 'graph' button you are able to re-arrange the order of your plugins by simple 'drag and drop'. Very easy and useful. Love it!
Last in the mastering chain we often get the limiter, the 'maximizer'. You can choose between 5 different 'types' of limiting with each their own character. The limiter, mainly the IRCIII, is being called the best one out there at the moment, allthough the opinions on that statement differ! The limiter becomes quickly a bit 'pumpy' or sounds flat compared to my personal favorite, the Pro-L.
However, without any doubt, the limiter sounds a lot better then the one in version 4! With version 5 the sound isn't as grainy and crunchy when you push it. Version 5 also sorted out the intersample peaks option and the coloring of the sound. Next to the limiter you have your dithering options of course. My personal favorit option is without doubt the 'mbit+'!
Only a few days after the release of version 5, iZotope released version 5.01 with an extra option to turn on/off the steroelink, and to set the percentage. Really nice, only intended for the 'Advanced' version now available too with the 'standard' version!
In version 3 you had these 'blocks' with low resolution, in version 4 they improved this considerably, and with version 5 this is just outstanding! Next to the standard peak/rms you can choose from several metering standards like the K-System standard and LUFS. I hope they will include the EBU R128 standard as well in a future update.
Personally I think the faders are a bit too dark, without saying they are badly visible, they are just a bit dark and I would have preferred that differently. Useful are the phaseflip buttons below the faders. With version 5 Advanced you'll get a lot of extra metering options with the added option to use them as a seperate plugin. Very useful but worth the extra price?
Ozone 5 is a very good plugin software, with loads of options and a big step forward against version 4. In fact all sections of the software are very useful and you'll get the tools to do a great master with just the Ozone software! Just be carefull with the presets. In my opinion you can't do a good master with presets anyway. Often all you need is an EQ, a very subtle compressor, and a limiter, and sometimes even less, to do a good master.
One of the dangerous aspects of the Ozone software is the vast amount of options. You tend to use them all! … Don't! The software needs a sticker: "Use with care!"
Ozone 5 costs $249 and the Advaced version costs $999. Its availible at your local store or in de Izotobe webshop. More info on www.izotope.com
Jeffrey de Gans | Da Goose Mastering


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My crochet lunchbox to-be is not going as quickly as I had hoped, but my impatience at completing the overall design not withstanding, I have, in the past two days, made some progress with my crochet lunch box prototype.
This morning, shortly before lunch, I completed the sides having figured out a way of working them that I liked better than all of the other ways I have tried so far:
With that done, I moved onto crocheting what will be the lid of the lunchbox, but was soon interrupted by the need to eat lunch.
I got back to my work for what seemed like the blink of an eye, and before I knew it, it was time to leave on an extended errands, and as seems to happen with errands, one lead to another, and before I knew it, the afternoon was nearly gone.
Despite, the fact that errands ate most of my afternoon, I picked up my hook, and working as quickly as I could, worked on crocheting the lid, and while the result seemed to be okay, when I laid it out and took a good look at it:
I realized that I should have lined the lunchbox first to get a better idea of what would be needed to make the lid fit properly.
Tomorrow will be a new day, and when I have dispatched my chores, I will pick up my hook and continue my pursuit of a crochet lunchbox one stitch at a time.


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Costas is a Dubai based sonic artist, music producer and consultant. He's an expert educator with more than 10 years of experience and the founder of Granular Academy.
Costas Papa
- Dubai United Arab Emirates
Costas Papa is an educator, sonic artist and media business consultant. Costas currently makes dark minimal techno with dub undertones and is continually reinventing his sonic identity while keeping an eye on developing trends.
Costas has designed and conducted courses and modules since 2007, in various disciplines such as electronic music production, synthesis, recording, sampling, DJing, and mixing and mastering, as well as performing with Live.
Based in Dubai, Costas provides music production training for industry professionals, beginners and hobbyists alike. The programs consist of technical and creative practices with Live, Max for Live and Push. In addition, he is a frequent guest lecturer at various schools and universities throughout the United Arab Emirates.
Costas is the founder of Granular, an academy that provides a platform for collaboration between artists at both local and international level. Additionally, Granular operates as a label that develops, guides and nurtures up and coming artists in the region and abroad. Granular Academy hosts monthly Ableton sessions in Dubai to offer artists the opportunity to express their artistic vision and connect with industry professionals. Sessions are offered in English, both online and in the form of meet-ups.
Costas has been a Live user since version one and is constantly exploring the world of Max for Live and interactive audio visual installations.
For more information, please visit www.granular.academy.
Please note: Ableton Certified Trainers and Ableton Certified Training Centers are private entities or enterprises and neither employees nor agents of Ableton. They are not administered by Ableton AG, Ableton Inc. or Ableton KK. The trainers and centers are solely responsible for their own course offerings and curricula. Ableton takes no responsibility or liability for the actions of the trainers or centers.


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HLF 2 for St. Pölten-Unterradlberg
Volunteer Fire Brigade St. Pölten-Unterradlberg
Eurocargo 160 E30, 4 x 2 (Iveco)
Motor Power
220 kW (299 HP), Euro 5
Gross Vehicle Weight
16,000 kg
3,950 mm
Crew Cab
1 + 8
Pump Capacity
2,400 l/min at 10 bar
Water Tank / Foam Tank
2,000 l / -
Vehicle Dimensions
6,980 x 2,550 x 3,320 mm
Superstructure Details
- AluFire3 superstructure
- Quick intervention hose reel, high pressure
- 3 breathing apparatuses in the crew cab
- Magirus design blue lights on the cab
- Water and foam roof monitor on the cabin roof, maximum flow rate of up to 2,800 l/min with remote control from the driver's seat
- Magirus warning system in LED technology
- Ventilation units
- Generator
- Lighting equipment
- Rear view camera
- Additional equipment and tactical fire-fighting loading at the customer's request
Contact & Service
If you are interested in a quote or have questions about our products, please send us an e-mail. We will get in touch with you as soon as possible. Your address and, when applicable, your fire brigade/agency/company will helps us respond to your inquiry quickly and efficiently. Of course we will handle your data confidentially.


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by Anna Mountford-Zimdars and Pallavi Banerjee
There is a new English league table on the block! Welcome! The exciting focus of this new ranking concerns social mobility – the clue is in the name and it is called the Social Mobility Index (SMI). Focusing on social mobility differentiates the SMI from other league tables, which often include dimensions such as prestige, research income, staff qualifications, student satisfaction, and employment outcomes.
The SMI is specifically about an institution's contribution to supporting disadvantaged learners. It uses the OfS model of access to, progression within and outcomes after higher education. Leaning on a methodology developed for a SMI in the US, the English version contains three dimensions: (1) Access, drawing on the Index of multiple deprivation (IMD); (2) Continuation, using progression data into the second year drawing on IMD; and (3) Salaries (adjusted for local purchasing power), using Longitudinal Education Outcomes (LEO) salary data collected one year after graduation.
The SMI report thoughtfully details the rationale for the measures used and is humble in acknowledging that other measures might be developed that are more useful. But do the reflections of the authors go far enough? Let's take the graduate outcome LEO data for example. These capture salaries 15 months into employment – too early for an outcome measure. It is also not broken down by IMD, there are heaps of missing data in LEO and those who continue into further study are not captured. Low IMD students may or may not be earning the same sort of salaries as their more advantaged peers. The regional weightings seem insufficient in light of the dominance of high-salary regions of both the US and English SMI. These shortcomings make the measure a highly problematic one to use, though the authors are right to endeavour to capture some outcome of higher education.
We would like a bolder SMI. Social Mobility is not only about income but about opportunities and choice and about enabling meaningful contribution in society. This was recognised in Bowen and Bok's (2000) evaluation of affirmative action, which measured 'impact' not only as income but as civic contribution, health, well-being. Armstrong and Hamilton (2015) show the importance of friendship and marriage formation as a result of shared higher education experiences. The global pandemic has shown that the most useful jobs we rely on such as early years educators are disgracefully underpaid. The present SMI's reduction of 'success' to a poor measure of economic outcomes needs redressing in light of how far the academic debate has advanced.
Also, social mobility is about more than class, it is about equal opportunities for first generation students, disabled students, men and women, refugees, asylum seekers, global majority ethnic groups as well as local, regional, national and international contributions. It is also about thinking not only about undergraduate student access, progress and success but about postgraduates, staff and the research and teaching at universities.
A really surprising absence in the introduction of this new SMI is reference to the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings. These are the only global performance tables that assess universities against the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals. First published in 2019, this ranking includes a domain on reducing inequality. The metrics used by the Times Higher ranking are: Research on reducing inequalities (27%); First-generation students (23.1%); Students from developing countries (15.4%); Students and staff with disabilities (11.4%); and Institutional measures against discrimination – including outreach and admission of disadvantaged groups (23.1%). The THE ranking celebrates that institutions also contribute to social mobility through what they research and teach. This dimensions should be borrowed for an English SMI in light of the importance attached to research-led, research-informed and research-evidenced practices in the higher education sector.
The use of individual measures in the THE ranking, of those with parents without a background of higher education (first generation students) and those with disabilities, including staff, has merit. Yes, individual-level measures are often challenging to 'operationalise'. But this shouldn't prevent us from arguing that they are the right measures to aspire to using. However the use of first generation students also highlights that the debate in the UK, focusing on area-level disadvantages such as the IMD or POLAR, is different from the international framing of first generation students measuring the educational background of students.
The inclusion of staff in the THE ranking is an interesting domain that merits consideration. For example, data on, for example, the gender pay gap is easily obtainable in England and it would indicate something about the organisational culture. Athena Swan awards or the Race Equality Charter or other similar awards which are an indicator of the diversity and equality in an institution could be considered as organisational commitments to the agenda and are straight-forward to operationalise.
We warmly welcome the SMI and congratulate Professor David Phoenix for putting the debate centre-stage and note that his briefing is already stimulating debate with Professor Peter Scott's thoughtful contribution to the debate. It is important to think about social mobility and added value as part of the league table world. It is in the nature of league tables that they oversimplify the work done by universities and staff and the achievements of their students.
There is real potential in the idea of an SMI and we hope that our contribution to the debate will bring some of these dimensions into the public debate of how we construct the index. This will create a SMI that celebrates good practice by institutions in the space of social mobility and encourages more good practice that will ultimately make higher education more inclusive and diverse while supporting success for all.
SRHE member Anna Mountford-Zimdars is Professor of Social Mobility and Academic Director of the Centre for Social Mobility at the University of Exeter. Pallavi Amitava Banerjee is a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy. She is an SRHE member and Senior Lecturer in Education in the Graduate School of Education at the University of Exeter.


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Sunday 16 July 2017
The trouble with Trump
Today, we met some Americans, and got to talking politics, as one does. And, by the way, they were politely startled at the UK decision to leave the EU. But Trump, they say, is a trainwreck and an embarrassment. From here, I explained, it more resembles a sitcom.
And then I thought; let's transpose this. Imagine, if you can, that our own dear queen started acting like Trump. Picking fights with other country's leaders, with the media, with anyone who criticises him. And tweeting to the world about this, so that it can't be watered down or hushed up. How would we feel?
5 comments:
The blog is back!ReplyDelete
- Anonymous17 July 2017 at 10:02
The wall is a big engineering project and wasn't going to be flung up in a month. Competitive designs and bids are being trialed, meaning sample sections are being built. In the meantime, fewer illegals are crossing from Mexico (because they know they are more likely to be sent back) and more are being sent back, including some of Obama's "dreamers".ReplyDelete
The travel ban was based not on religion, but country of origin, and is now partly in place, with a date set for a final Supreme court decision. More importantly, the Supreme court has a new conservative judge, appointed by Trump, so the decision is likely to go his way. Hilary would have put in a liberal, altering the balance further to the left.
"Obamacare" is falling apart of its own weight. The replacement is an effort to save it, and yes, it is likely to fail, at which point all the remaining insurance companies will withdraw from the scheme.
Your American acquaintances sound like they are from the half of the US that disagrees with Trump's positions. The ones that agree are at home, tending their farms and small businesses and going to work every day. They know he is facing furious opposition from the other side, slowing his (and their) agenda. They don't fly over to Europe to tell foreigners they are embarrassed.
Wall - yes, maybe plans are being made. Plans are ceap, almost as cheap as talk. You still think that Mexico wil pay?ReplyDelete
The tr4aqvel ban that Trump as proposing during his campaign, was a ban on mosilms @until we can figure out what is going on@. That's not going to happen, as you point out.
Yes, the Amercicans I met are anti-Trump. The ones that voted for him are athome, wondering when all the promises he made will come true, and whether Trump's claims are correct that these dreams would have if only he wasn't still being opposed by about half the USA population.
I'd really like to chat witha pro-Trumper. You're the first one I've met. So please stay in touch; maybe email me?
- Anonymous17 July 2017 at 17:49
"Border Patrol union chief praises 'miraculous' drop in illegal immigration under Trump"ReplyDelete
"The Homeland Security funding bill included $1.6 billion funding for the southern border wall."
Both from:
More money will no doubt be needed, but it doesn't all have to be paid out at once. Whether Mexico will pay is yet to be seen. One idea is to tax the remittances Mexicans in the USA send home.
The travel ban is on people from six "predominately Muslim countries" regardless of their professed religion, and is in effect, with some exceptions. It may be fully implemented when the Supremes decide in October. Like the tougher line on illegal entry from Mexico, it has already dissuaded many from those countries from coming, if only by promoting uncertainty.
Pro-Trump people are used to being reviled, so you may have met others who have been reticent about speaking out. They don't really have to advocate; their guy is in office. They aren't in denial and don't give credence to the frenzied mainstream media attacks.
- Anonymous18 July 2017 at 13:58
Some mining jobs coming back:ReplyDelete
"Last week, he shared stats about private-sector job growth, most notably, 42,000 jobs added in mining and logging, a key focus during his campaign in Ohio and Pennsylvania"


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Hey, you might find this a bit surprising but I am still running my trusty old 3D touch as of June 2020!
The only slicer I use is KISSlicer and cannot fault it. I did start with the BFB slicer, but switched in 2012 (KS-PRO v18.104.22.168) and havent looked back.
I kinda wish this printer would die already so I can justify buying a new one, but it just keeps on going and going and going.
Yea, I have upgraded a few parts:
Aluminium bed arms instead of the flimsy acrylic.
Heated aluminium bed.
E3D hot end.
Overhead filament feed.
Enclosed sides for heat containment.
But the baby still runs.....!
3D Touch still running in 2020!
Post Reply
2 posts • Page 1 of 1
- Deep_Orange
- Posts: 6
- Joined: 14 Nov 2014, 02:04
- Location: QLD, Australia
- Contact:
- Posts: 1
- Joined: 16 Jul 2020, 10:09
Re: 3D Touch still running in 2020!
Hi. I have one here in Brazil. Could you attach the software and settings files you are using? Thanks
Post Reply
2 posts • Page 1 of 1


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Petrol Station Cleaning
Petrol Station Cleaning Services Brisbane, Ipswich, Logan & the Gold Coast
We provide professional pressure cleaning and soft washing and these services especially suit Petrol Station Cleaning.
If your petrol station business is in Brisbane, Ipswich, Logan and the Gold Coast then we can help you.
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Colleges and Universities
More information coming soon...
Below are a few examples of colleges and universities we have provided engineering design services for.
|The experience provided on this page is current as of Sunday, September 29, 2019.
|For our most up-to-date project experience please contact us.
Solar Cooling Absorption Chiller System
- Owner: University of Arizona
- Location: Tucson, AZ
- Delivery Method: Design-Build
- Magazine Article: Click to download
Design of solar-thermal-fired hot water absorption chiller system. Solar thermal hot water collectors were located on the roof of the existing Student Rec Center. The new absorption chiller was fired from the solar loop water and used the existing swimming pool as a heat sink. The system provides chilled water to the University's campus-wide chilled water system while heating the pool. Project based on energy payback type contracting.
Chemistry Building Expansion
- Owner: University of Arizona
- Location: Tucson, AZ
- Delivery Method: CM at Risk
- Project Area: 46,800 SF
New 4-story addition to the existing Chemistry Building at the University of Arizona. Hired by the Fire Protection Contractor, KWA prepared complete fire sprinkler and standpipe system design drawings including hydraulic calculations. A fire pump design was also prepared and incorporated into the project. The General Contractor hired KWA to concurrently prepare entire coordination drawings for mechanical, plumbing, process lab piping, electrical, structural & architectural disciplines.
Helen S. Schaefer Poetry Center
- Owner: University of Arizona
- Location: Tucson, AZ
- Delivery Method: CM at Risk
- Project Area: 17,600 SF
HVAC, plumbing and performance fire protection design for award-winning new split-level multi-use facility. Facility consisted of library style space for the public, meeting rooms, offices and archive storage housing priceless poetry works. HVAC included stand-alone heating water systems, campus chilled water systems, humidification systems, BACnet control system, and custom air handling units. Special considerations were given to the archive storage areas - designs included tight temperature and humidity control systems. American Institute of Architects Southern Arizona chapter 2008 Citation Award. Featured in 8.2008 No. 47 edition of Urbanism and Architecture (Chinese).
Memorial Student Union and Bookstore
- Owner: University of Arizona
- Location: Tucson, AZ
- Delivery Method: Design-Build
- Project Area: 395,000 SF
Hired by the Fire Protection Contractor, KWA prepared complete fire sprinkler and standpipe system design including hydraulic calculations for the new Student Union and Bookstore Building. Project design included phasing to allow for existing Student Center to remain occupied and protected during construction.
Arizona Stadium North End Zone Expansion
- Owner: University of Arizona
- Location: Tucson, AZ
- Delivery Method: CM at Risk
- Project Area: 73,000 SF
Prepared fire protection performance specifications including drawings depicting sprinkler head layouts for construction coordination, details for a new fire pump system installation, and all riser & drain piping configuration details. Standpipe systems were both dry manual and wet manual combined with the wet-pipe fire sprinkler systems. Exterior areas were designed to have double interlocked pre-action system protection.
Gloria Sheldon Technical Arts Building
- Owner: Central Arizona College
- Location: Coolidge, AZ
- Delivery Method: Design-Bid-Build
- Project Area: 38,000 SF
HVAC and plumbing design of new two-story technical arts classroom building. Building consists of classrooms, computer labs, science labs, offices and lecture hall/auditorium. Design included acid waste and vent systems and fume hoods. Controls for new building designed to integrate into campus open protocol system.
U of A Student Recreation Center Lobby Renovations
- Owner: University of Arizona
- Location: Tucson, AZ
- Delivery Method: CM at Risk
- Project Area: 17,000 SF
Interior renovations to 17,000 square foot area of existing two-story recreation center. Design include complete replacement of the HVAC systems serving the area, addition of HVAC systems, replacement of the fire sprinkler system, and new plumbing including a grease interceptor and new sewer connection in 6th Street. Fast track construction timeframe (12+ hour days, 6-7 days per week) and KWA's construction administration was very responsive.
More Examples
McKale Center Renovations
Cochise College Willcox Center
Pima College West Campus
Pima College Aviation Tech
Gamma Phi Beta Sorority Fire Protection Retrofit
Memorial Student Union North Corridor & Patio
Yuma Agriculture Center
Hillenbrand Aquatic Center Solar Thermal System
Pink Berry Cafe at Memorial Student Union
Highland Parking Garage
Hillenbrand Women's Softball Team Room
Memorial Student Union Infrastructure Report
U of A Records Management & Archives
Delta Chi Fraternity Retrofit
South End Zone Seating Expansion
Student Recreation Expansion
Central Arizona College Pence Center Building
McKale Center 'A' Store Remodel
Children's Education Library Mechanical Assessment
Cochise College Benson
Lunar and Planetary Lab Office Renovations
Tyndall Parking Garage
Other Project Types
The KWA team provides high quality, energy efficient and budget-appropriate solutions for office buildings, financial institutions, mixed-use facilities, retail buildings... (read more)
Fire Protection
KWA continues to lead in areas of Fire Protection Engineering in Southern Arizona. KWA's design experience includes wet & dry pipe, deluge, pre-action, foam, gas agent... (read more)
KWA has extensive experience providing engineering designs for Government projects. The KWA team is knowledgeable of the required design standards and codes... (read more)
The KWA team has designed HVAC, plumbing, and fire protection systems for more than 40 healthcare and medical facilities in Arizona and New Mexico... (read more)
K-12 Schools
KWA provides engineering design services for all types of education facilities, kindergarten to high school. Additionally, KWA provides commissioning and energy audits... (read more)
Museum / Arhive
KWA has the expertise necessary to provide designs for the tight temperature, humidity, and pressurization requirements of museum and archival facilities... (read more)
Places of Worship
The KWA team understands the needs of and provides custom-taylored solutions for the high-occupancy and multi-use assembly spaces in religious projects... (read more)


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I have a cocktail induced sore head today so posting may be lighter and/or make no sense today. I am struggling to string a sentence together…
This shoot by Kelly Moore kind of made my head hurt even more due to all the brightness but I love it too much not to post. Of course there is no relation to weddings at all within this shoot, but it's so pretty it's worth a mini deviation.
The Gallery
Credit: Kelly Moore Photography


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Google Apps
Authentication through DIGIPASS as a Service
DIGIPASS as a Service is VASCO's cloud based authentication offering. On the back-end, there is the 'DIGIPASS as a Service' platform, hosted and managed by VASCO.
Google Apps™ is a hosted service for communication and collaboration designed for business of all sizes. The package addresses the communication, sharing, and collaboration needs of today's end-users.
Google Apps™ end-users trust in Google's ability to properly secure their data. However, the most important aspect of your online security is access control to your data. Password security remains the weakest link in any security infrastructure.
Furthermore, companies that make use of cloud-based applications may not have the resources to build and maintain a proprietary authentication infrastructure or consider it too costly to do so for a single application.
For companies who cannot benefit from a traditional authentication model, VASCO developed a cloud based authentication solution to secure access to business-critical data. DIGIPASS as a Service is the independent, security service, protecting your Google Apps™ identity!
DIGIPASS as a Service provides enhanced protection against account hacking and identity theft. End-users benefit from VASCO's state-of-the-art DIGIPASS authentication technology already used by world leading banks around the globe, hence adding banking level security to business and consumer applications. With DIGIPASS as a Service for Google Apps™, VASCO offers a standard, secure way to protect your customer information.
DIGIPASS as a Service is offered as a fully outsourced authentication model to the customer, in which VASCO takes care of the entire authentication process allowing companies to focus on their core business. Companies no longer need to make upfront investments in an authentication infrastructure and benefit from the best-of-breed authentication VASCO offers
The DIGIPASS as a Service offering includes:
- A fully redundant hosted authentication back-end
- The provisioning of DIGIPASS software or hardware authenticators to end-users
- Fulfillment services (branding, customization, packaging, provisioning, distribution and storage)
- Professional services
DIGIPASS as a Service supports the following applications:
- Gmail™ webmail service
- Google Calendar™ calendaring application
- Google Docs™ program
How Does It Work:
All you need to do is configure your company's Google Apps™ account to use the 'DIGIPASS as a Service' platform as the authentication server. The platform will then handle all authentication requests coming from Google Apps™.
1. Browse to Google Apps™
2. You will be redirected to the DIGIPASS as a Service Log-on page. Here you enter your one-time password generated by your DIGIPASS
3. Once the password has been validated, access to Google Apps™ has been granted


text:
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I have watched, and listened to, our President. He speaks like someone who really wants to succeed but lacks the courage to fight the cankerworm that made others before him to fail.
Fellow Nigerians, please permit me to thank all those who have responded to this serialised analysis of what we need to do as a nation to move our great country forward. What makes our country beautiful are the majority of the people who have demonstrated how endowed we are globally. It is one of those ironies of life that the giant strides of Nigeria worldwide are not easy to replicate at home because of the many man-made obstacles deliberately erected by those who profit from confusion and backwardness as well as the manacles we've been chained down with like dogs.
I'm glad to note that most of the commentators appreciate this modest effort at throwing up a robust debate and proffering solutions to gargantuan problems that have defied all permutations. True we all know what should be done but lack the will and determination to make it happen. We must continue to educate and remind ourselves about those ideas that rescued other places from our type of madness. Many countries had walked this route before and there is so much to learn and emulate from them. We cannot continue to maintain a monopoly of bad manners. Even if we were cursed, we should have exorcised the evil spirit by now.
There is nothing too difficult about fixing our problems, as I have noted repeatedly. The problem lies in the unwillingness of our leaders to compromise and downgrade their personal comfort. We have given a new nomenclature and meaning to the idea of governance and service in Nigeria, and no one, including the former radicals, is willing to risk or alter that new status of a privilegentsia. The situation is now so bad and tragic that Nigerians have written off every critic as a hypocrite waiting to partake in the orgiastic despoliation of Nigeria. Can you really blame the cynics when none of the members of the so-called progressive parties has ever rejected the atrocious funds being distributed like a bazaar in a church harvest?
The National Assembly that should check the excesses of our reckless and lawless executive cannot in good conscience speak up against the profligacy at the highest level because their self-awarded budget and personal emoluments are beyond reason in a country where most of our youths are practically jobless. Where lies the hope for a better tomorrow when civil servants are owed for months but the fat cats at the top, including those in the same civil service, still find the means to live big in the middle of indescribable poverty and frustration? The solution is simple and straight forward. Our leaders must strive to redistribute the wealth that it has pleased God to grant our nation.
I have watched, and listened to, our President. He speaks like someone who really wants to succeed but lacks the courage to fight the cankerworm that made others before him to fail. You cannot use the same fake methods and strategies and hope to record monumental success. It requires vision, determination, total commitment, the courage of a lion, selflessness, sacrifice, all rolled into one. It is not the type of psychedelic and discofied enjoyment that our leaders are addicted to. We must show the world that we are ready to change the way we run things here. Our champagne lifestyle must give way to the simplicity of an African village. There is elegance in simplicity and a poor man cannot continue to live in denial and false grandeur. Until we cure ourselves of this malady Nigeria is going nowhere but ultimately down the slope.
The key to building a modern Nigeria is in our ability to change the heartlessness of those who see power only as an invitation to treat. We can take all the loans we want, both foreign and local, it will never improve the lives of our people, if we do not know what to do with it. We have enough resources to turn things around for the better but it will never be sufficient for the greed of those who want to own the heavens and the earth. The way our governments are amassing loans as if it is going out of vogue suggests we've not learnt useful lessons from the past. These loans, I'm certain, will never be judiciously used to transform a nation that's badly in need of restoration and transformation. It is so sad that a few people can hold their country by the jugular, strangulate it and as it is dying, rape it so mercilessly and repeatedly.
I pray and hope that the Head of our Economic Team will find the voice to tell her colleagues about the stupidity in mortgaging the future of unborn Nigerians by the latest rash of raising all manner of meaningless loans. Why do we announce budgets in trillions if we have no money to fund it? Why do we award contracts in billions to irresponsible people who have no intention of carrying out the work to acceptable standards, if they do it at all? Why can't we put an end to this obvious drift to perdition? These are questions begging for answers and which must be addressed by a leader who hopes to succeed.
The promise of stable electricity by 2013 remains in the realm of mirage and fantasy because government has not shown the capacity to discipline recalcitrant agents that tend to thwart all efforts as well as the cartel that makes incredible fortunes from our collective misfortune. When our leaders begin to exhibit evidence of seriousness, things will begin to fall into place. For now, let's continue to delude ourselves like the quintessential loquacious dog who can only bark but cannot bite. The issue of power is so central to our problems and it takes more than wishful thoughts to solve it. Thirteen years on, and trillion Naira investments down the drain, it is a big shame that we are where we are.
Rather than be penitent about this cruelty to mankind our leaders are warming up for another round of electoral malfeasance and disasters. It is obvious they can't see anything wrong with the way they have mismanaged our lives and betrayed our trust. They have the temerity to insist on continuing the barstardisation of our nation because we seem to exist in the Dark Ages. No ruling party would survive 13 years in any modern world with the level of abysmal failure recorded by our own.
Unfortunately, the opposition parties have not given much cause for joy. If truth must be told, we must show ample proof to our people, especially the youths that we are much better than those we want to upstage and replace. Until we do that, we should not expect the electorate to abandon the devils they know for the angels they can't see. We have a rare opportunity to cash in on the non-performance of the ruling government at the centre to form a broad coalition of more serious-minded people (I hate the word progressive in its present form) across party lines. It is obvious they won't be saints in the first instance but we can manage to build something out of nothing through them. All our efforts to build a modern Nigeria will come to naught if we continue to have the snail speed administrators but fleet-footed looters we have at the moment in power. It is obvious they see no reason to be in a hurry when they can do nothing and still exercise their constitutional rights of running two terms whether they perform or not.
As I told Chief Bisi Akande, the National Chairman of ACN, two weeks ago, it is not an impossible mission. His party already controls most of the South West and part of the South South. The PDP States are shrinking. CPC is very popular with the talakawas of the North West in particular. The North Central is floating and waiting for the best suitor. The North East has been badly decimated by terrorism and needs peace that PDP does not seem able to guarantee. The South East is practically split down the middle. Therefore, the next election has become anybody's game. President Goodluck Jonathan has more powerful enemies within PDP than outside it. I have no doubt that it is not going to be a smooth-sail like before.
The opposition can take PDP on by poaching some of its powerful guns. I predict a winning combination of Aminu Tambuwal, the Honourable Speaker of the Federal House of Representatives and Babatunde Fashola, the Governor of Lagos State, in no particular order. The House of Representatives has the largest spread of middle-class politicians nationwide. This gives the popular Speaker a chance to spread his wings everywhere. He comes from the Caliphate and his affable attitude has helped him to build bridges across the country. He emerged against all principles of zoning to become the Speaker against all odds. The President and his acolytes could do nothing to stop his glorious ascendancy and his date with destiny.
Lagos State is a microcosm of Nigeria. It is the heartbeat of commerce and entertainment. Lagos alone controls more than ten percent of the fortunes of Nigeria. The Governor of Lagos is a mini-President in his own right. Asiwaju Bola Ahmed of Tinubu was able to run Lagos even when the Obasanjo-led Federal Government illegally stopped all subventions to Lagos. By the end of his tenure, Governor Fashola would have activated one of the most modern systems of government in Africa. I'm under no illusion that it must of necessity come with a heavy price.
It is in nature of change to cause a lot of discomfort. You can't modernise without inconveniencing some people. And the victims are usually the poor. But after rain comes sunshine. We need many more brave men and women of Fashola's ilk to build a modern Nigeria. Fashola and Tambuwal are only one of the possible configurations. There are several others that may emerge but not those being currently touted as sure banker. We cannot continue to live and cohabit in this animal farm like pigs. Only a new set of enlightened leaders can make this happen. Say what you will, some of these modernists exist in all parties but they must realign to achieve this tough goal.
Something tells me that other aspirants would have to bury their personal interests and ambition if Nigeria must enjoy a semblance of peace and progress. I'm confident to say that I'm not desperate for power but I'm desperate for change. Any leader who claims to love Nigeria must bury his ego for the sake of our children.
God bless Nigeria. God bless its people! Amen.
Op-ed pieces and contributions are the opinions of the writers only and do not represent the opinions of Y!/YNaija.
Comments (6)
God will increase your wisdom. This is an insightful writing, may the lord touch the heart of those at the corridor of power to do the right thing. The future of Nigeria is not very clear if we continue running the government the way PDP is doing things they have no clear vision to move this great country to the next stage and for the sake of the yet unborn children this is the right time to build a modern Nigeria. May God save Nigeria, change Nigeria and may He make Nigeria great in our life time.
God bless u Uncle Dele.
The first question Dele Momodu fails to address is whether all in Nigeria voluntariy want to remain in Nigeria and if it is not within their human rights to allow them their freedom as any referndum will confirm , coming to 2015, Jonathan will win again in 2015 after which a President from the Southeast will come in, that is only what will save Nigeria,take it or leave it
I laugh. After contesting for president, Dele Momodu now wants other aspirants to calm down. That is the kind of selfish wisdom that makes Nigeria backward. Just so you know, the followers are more corrupt than the leaders in Nigeria… I am sure about that.
Dele you have once again demonstrated your love for Nigeria through your pen and ink. I salute your courage and sincerity. If and only if the elites and those gunning for power will have a rethink about our great nation things will change. As long as those currently occupying different political offices and their cronies are bent on outdoing each other with material possesion things will not change.
I share your vision for a morden Nigerian nation. God bless you.
food for thought, but will these gluttons in power listen?the answer is NO.they are so deep in the decadence such that giving this kind of advice is creating enemies in the corridors of power.we have to NIGERIA back by ourselves,especially the youth.


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(Concluded from Part 1, above.)
The second thing I wanted to do was answer a lightworker's question. He said the way he sees it we won't have a Reval until we raise our consciousnesses and the way to raise our consciousnesses is to have a Reval.
Are we in a Catch 22? Or is this the Sphinx's riddle?
No. We simply need to expand the sentence a little
Yes, the Company of Heaven insists that we do some of the work to bring in the Reval. They insist that we not only express our free-will determination to raise our frequency to a level where a safe and successful Reval can happen, but, if we haven't already, take actual steps to raise it.
We saw yesterday how really crude some of us can get in the grips of our vasanas, bless our hearts. (1) Might we consider that the view of one end of the spectrum of currency holders? Then there are lightworkers who are hard at work cleansing themselves of their vasanas, at the other end.
Either we inspire those whose vibrations are lower to raise them or we redouble our efforts in raising ours and some of the collective's, besides. We know what needs to be done and we have the determination to do it.
When we say we must raise our vibrations to have a Reval and we must have a Reval to a raise our vibrations, we're comparing apples and oranges.
The first sentence relates to the Reval itself, but the second sentence relates to Ascension.
Number One. We need to deepen a few notches in consciousness to have the Reval occur. Yes.
Number Two. The impact of the Reval on the poor and downtrodden will be to lift them up and prepare them for Ascension. Yes again. Both are true.
And it'll be us in the main (from the terrestrial side) who will make this all happen.
Does that clear up the seeming Catch 22? Comparatively small increase in vibes brings the Reval. The Reval brings a comparatively great increase in vibes leading on to Ascension.
(1) "A Case in Point, If You'll Allow Me,"


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61,000 Indian millionaires left the country in the last 14 years: Why are the Richie rich fleeing the country.
The Indian economy has been declared the world's fastest-growing economy, beating China at the game. However, the filthy rich population is looking for other countries over India as the best option for their future, and as per a fresh report, India stands third in the list of countries where HNWI's (high net worth individuals) migrate to foreign countries.
More than 25,000 millionaires left India since 2014
I was recently reported by Wall Street that 43,400 super-rich Indian millionaires have left India in the last 10 years in other terms you can say 61,000 Indian millionaires have migrated to foreign countries.
5000 Wealthy Indians Migrated in 2018
As per the findings from Global Wealth Migration Review (GWMR), 2019 published by the AfrAsia Bank and research firm New World Wealth, 5000 super-rich Indian nationals have migrated out of the country in 2018.
On the number one position if the list is China, with 15,000 HNWIs leaving the country which makes up 2% of the total population. India has the second-highest millionaire outflow in the world and followed by Russia with 7,000 HNWIs or 6% migrating. However, 10% of the wealthy population of Turkey moved to other countries, but the number is only as lows as 4000.
Analyst had done lots of research and they charted out a couple of reasons behind this massive migration some of which are the safety of women and children, pollution, climate, space, financial issues, educational systems, the standard of living career opportunities, ill-practices, the tax system of the Government, and many more.
How it will be going to Affect The Indian Economy?
One of the most crucial and important reasons behind the super-rich people jumping the ship is due to improve and better business opportunities abroad. Once they find a better business atmosphere and flexible ecosystem in foreign countries, employment is offered to the locals, which results in a low level of employment rate in India and very poor job opportunities.
India is facing a huge job crisis in the country and unemployment is at 60 years high, and now super-rich Indians are opting to set up their businesses elsewhere will bring it all the more employment crisis. There is a big gap in the rich and poor population of India already, and reduced employment rates will result in the gap widening even further.
Complex Tax System Of India
Another important point that why rich people move abroad is the Problematic taxation system in India. The tax system in India is definitely complex and time consuming. When super-rich Indians build their businesses in other countries, they also find a new alternative to evade paying taxes in India, which, again is a huge blow to the Indian economy.
This is a serious issue and the root cause for it is the taxation system in the country. If High Net-worth Individuals (HNIS) prefer to change their location to Dubai, London or some country which is a tax haven it is a serious cause of concern for the government. These HNIs are not just entrepreneurs but they are crucial drivers of private capital investment and if they exit it will lead to the decline of private capital formation in the country. Indian economy is already witnessing a decline in private capital investment and it is public investment or spending from the government that is fueling growth. Political parties are promising a lot of welfare schemes and they would basically add to the burden of the taxpayers, such exits may increase with the rise of the welfare state.
Developed Countries like Singapore, Hong Kong, United Kingdom, South Korea have simpler tax systems and many Indian startups are now moving their headquarters in such countries and pay taxes there to avoid the complex tax structure and slabs in India. A fine example would be Flipkart, which registered their parent company in Singapore, to save taxes imposed by the Indian government.
India's Rank on the World Bank's Ease of Doing Business
The Government is taking lots of steps and initiatives to boost India's rank in the World Bank's Ease of Doing Business index. Thie index consists of a list in which all economies across the world are ranked as per the ease of doing business they offer. Rank would be higher of the nation on the list, the greater is the business environment in that particular country.
However, if a huge number of Indian Millionaire Entrepreneurs take their businesses outside the country, this ranking will definitely go down the wire. As per 2018, India wasn't in the top 50 countries in the World Bank's Ease of Doing Business, and will probably go down if the super-rich individuals migrate their businesses in foreign countries.
Unlike most of the population, millionaires around the world may well choose where to live. They leave places where they are worst treated and go to places where they receive the best treatment. Along with them, go their skills and fortunes and also the jobs they generate.
In 2018, millionaires left Brazil, China, India, Russia, Turkey, United Kingdom, France, Saudi Arabia, and Indonesia. Meanwhile, the United States, Canada, Australia, Israel, Switzerland, Greece, Portugal, Spain, New Zealand, the United Arab Emirates, Singapore, and the Caribbean have welcomed them.
Amazing news coming in every day. Poor keep getting doles while income creators leave at an alarming rate. I'm sure we will be told that this is also part of a grand plan which mere mortals cannot fathom right now. I guess we should all pray for 'divine intervention'.
It doesn't matter how many left. History and destiny of civilization aren't decided by herds of rich (or poor) that left searching for greener pastures elsewhere by their own free will.
The future of civilization is written by people who persisted, stayed back and did something to improve it against all odds.


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Today we have two types of poker games, one that has been played in this world since centuries now, and one that had found its place in this world only a few years ago. In poker, 5 cards are used in the game. The players have to bet on the person that is holding the best combination of cards. Normally more than two players are involved in poker. A player can either bet or raise the stake. Well lets us discuss about the history of poker first and after that we will move towards online poker history as well.
There have been different stories about the origin of name of Poker. However, the origin is still unclear. Two main conceptions are that either this name came from a German game pochspiel or from French game Poque. Some people believe that it originated from a Hindu word and few people say that it got evolved from term hocus pocus.
Bluffing is commonly used in poker game. A player holding a set of cards will never expose his/her cards to others and will pretend to have different cards then he/she actually has. This is called bluffing. Though not only bluffing game is played in poker but usually games, like bluffing, are associated with poker.
The online is just 13 years old. It was 1998 when first poker game came online. Although 2002 is considered as the milestone year in poker history. Just after one year, World Poker Tour got launched on a travel channel of America and that was the time when online poker got its boost in the history. There was a competition for online poker as well that was held in 2003 and it was a real hit competition. Due to its availability and competitions it became ceme online more popular among individuals and more people started getting into that game. There was a time when poker was played in casinos only but today the due to great online poker history, you can play this game while sitting in your house.
As a matter of fact, the history officially started in 1998. It was the time when first poker room got opened in the world. At that time there were so many shortcomings in online poker game that were sought out with the passage of time. Today, there are thousands of websites that are offering online poker services. You can play poker on any of your favorite websites. All that you need to do is to become their member. This membership can either be free or you may have to pay some membership fee to become their member. People from all over the world visit these websites to play poker and so can you.


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Gulf of Aden Security Review
A regularly updated review of both Yemen and the Horn of Africa covering topics related to security, governance, and militant activity.
Yemen: UN Security Council calls on negotiating parties to make interim security plan; reported U.S. airstrike kills AQAP militants in Abyan; suspected AQAP gunmen attack checkpoint in al Hawta, Lahij; AQAP militants attack pro-Hadi military positions in Wadi Hadramawt
Horn of Africa: Al Shabaab attacks SNA military outpost in Danunay, Bay region; al Shabaab attacks Wajid town, Bakool region; pro-ISIS Twitter account claims more operations to occur in Somalia
Yemen Security Brief
- The UN Security Council called on the al Houthis, the General People's Congress (GPC) party led by former president Ali Abdullah Saleh, and President Abdu Rabbu Mansour Hadi's delegation on April 25 to construct a road map for interim security measures that will support efforts to reach a permanent settlement. The map is to include withdrawals from seized territory, disarmament, and the rehabilitation of state institutions. The Council also asked UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon to construct a plan within 30 days detailing how the UN Special Envoy for Yemen Ismail Ould Cheikh Ahmed will promote peace between the conflicting delegations in Yemen. Ould Cheikh Ahmed met with the leaders of the al Houthi-GPC and Hadi government delegations to examine a framework for the negotiations proposed by the UN. The framework will be discussed in the upcoming days.[1]
- A reported U.S. airstrike targeted a car carrying al Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) militants in Abyan governorate on April 26. The vehicle was traveling between the cities Ja'ar and Zinjibar. The strike killed three AQAP members.[2]
- Suspected AQAP gunmen fired on a checkpoint in al Hawta, Lahij governorate with machine guns and a rocket-propelled grenade (RPG). Yemeni forces loyal to President Hadi backed by Saudi-led coalition air support claimed to clear AQAP militants from al Hawta on April 15.[3]
- AQAP militants attacked military positions of the 37th Brigade, which is loyal to President Hadi, and injured several soldiers in Sir and al Aqab, Wadi Hadramawt on April 26. Pro-Hadi forces killed and injured several AQAP militants in the ensuing clashes.[4]
Horn of Africa Security Brief
- Al Shabaab militants attacked a Somali National Army (SNA) base in Danunay village near Baidoa in Bay region on April 26, wounding at least four soldiers and killing more than 10. An al Shabaab spokesperson claimed that militants ambushed a truck carrying supplies to the base near Manyafuul and killed at least 11 soldiers before attacking the base. The SNA Commander for Bay region reported that his forces killed 20 militants in the battle and that the militants withdrew after the attack.[5]
- Al Shabaab reportedly launched a large assault on Wajid town in Bakool region on April 26. Local sources said that militants attacked several roadside checkpoints and military outposts before the SNA mobilized and defeated the attack. Initial estimates indicate that at least 12 militants were killed during the attack. Al Shabaab confirmed the attack but did not release further details.[6]
- An Islamic State in Iraq and al Sham (ISIS) fighter allegedly residing in Somalia tweeted a series of messages claiming that the group's forthcoming attacks would "vex the Jews of the jihad," in reference to the al Qaeda affiliated al Shabaab. The user, "Talmid Abu Nu'man," challenged pro-al Shabaab Twitter profiles who said that no support for ISIS existed in Somalia. "Nu'man" asserted that ISIS has a large presence throughout Somalia. ISIS's presence in Somalia is thought to be limited to the northern Puntland region, but the group also claimed an improvised explosive device (IED) attack on an African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) vehicle near Mogadishu on April 24.[7]
[1] Yemen: Security Council calls for parties in talks to develop road map for security measures," UN News Centre, April 25, 2016,http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=53780#.Vx9bbvkrJpg.
[2] "Death of members of al Qaeda in airstrike on a car in Abyan," Barakish, April 26, 2016,http://barakish.net/news02.aspx?cat=12&sub=23&id=396020.
[3] "Al Qaeda gunmen attack a checkpoint in al Hawta," Barakish, April 26, 2016 http://barakish.net/news02.aspx?cat=12&sub=23&id=396021.
[4] "Violent clashes between the army and al Qaeda in Wadi Hadramawt," Barakish, April 26, 2016, http://barakish.net/news02.aspx?cat=12&sub=23&id=396022.
[5] Abdi Sheikh and Feisal Omar, "Al Shabaab kills five at Somali military base: army captain," Reuters, April 26, 2016, http://reut.rs/1TufgjN; "Al Shabaab overruns Somali Army military base in Baidoa, four soliders injured-military official," April 26, 2016, http://goobjoog.com/english/?p=28205 and "At least 20 Al-Shabaab militants killed in heavy fighting in Somalia," Xinhua News, April 26, 2016, http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2016-04/26/c_135313864.htm.
[6] "Somali army says it foiled Al shabaab attack on Wajid town," Shabelle News, April 26, 2016, http://www.shabellenews.com/2016/04/somali-army-says-it-foiled-al-shabaab-attack-on-wajid-town/ and Shmuel Yousef Agnon, "Somali Force Thwart an Al-Shabaab Attack On Army Base in Wajid Town, Several Militants Killed," Intelligence Briefs, April 26, 2016, http://intelligencebriefs.com/somali-force-thwart-an-al-shabaab-attack-on-army-base-in-wajid-town-several-militants-killed/.
[7] "IS FIGHTER IN SOMALIA CLAIMS "LARGE PRESENCE" OF GROUP THROUGHOUT COUNTRY," SITE Intelligence Group, April 26, 2016, Source available by subscription through https://ent.siteintelgroup.com/.
View Citations


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In today's AMN Q&A, Bill Long, president and chief operating officer of the Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association (AASA), and Scott Thompson, senior vice president, Automotive and Business Services, Epicor, give us the inside scoop on the AASA Channel Excellence Award. The newly created award was introduced in late November and will be presented at this year's AASA Vision Conference.
Why was this the right time to launch such an award?
Bill Long: In our view, suppliers and customers have made great strides in developing true "partnerships" that focus on common goals and mutual benefits. Going forward, growth and success is heavily reliant on the ability to leverage individual strengths that will drive innovation and differentiation.
We now have many outstanding examples of supplier-customer collaboration success stories that are worthy of recognition, and feel that it is time to showcase these examples, which we believe will serve as a catalyst for others to follow. We sought the expertise of Epicor in developing the award, and they will join with us in presenting the inaugural award at our Vision Conference on April 3 in Dearborn, Michigan.
What was most appealing to Epicor about creating an award that recognizes channel collaboration?
Scott Thompson: We believe the industry has reached an inflection point in the long struggle to improve channel efficiency. For decades we have faced a situation where suppliers have chased the industry's appetite for very high service levels and invested precious capital in products that are ultimately returned as unsold goods. At the same time, existing category management strategies are too often based on incomplete data, leading to "best guesses" about which parts should be deployed in a given quantity for a specific market. VIO data is simply not enough. The aftermarket is poised to solve this problem through deep, near-real-time visibility into product consumption at a local level. As the only solutions provider that "connects" every step of the industry value chain – from manufacturer to service provider – Epicor is eager to help these businesses develop and apply trust-based collaborations that can drive revenue growth and increased efficiency for all parties.
How do you hope to encourage collaboration through this award program?
Long: In most cases, suppliers are collaborating already. Channel partners tell us, a few do it well; yet most, in their opinion, do not. Our intent is to showcase and celebrate those who are breaking new ground and to recognize the creativity and innovation as a further catalyst for new ideas. In essence, we hope to bring suppliers and channel partners closer together, elevating the process to the next level so everyone wins.
What qualities are you looking for in this first round of entries and the ultimate winner?
Thompson: We're looking for collaborative initiatives that have successfully leveraged modern practices such as data analytics, improved inventory positioning and other innovations to positively impact channel efficiency and revenue growth. These initiatives must be truly collaborative, meaning that a supplier and one or more channel partners have together developed and applied innovative strategies for mutual success. Our winners each year will be the group of participants who best execute on their shared vision to achieve increased sales, reduced costs, improved efficiency and/or increased competitiveness in a rapidly changing market. We encourage all industry participants to review the award criteria online at aftermarketsuppliers.org/channel-excellence-award.
Tell us about the award selection committee that was recently announced. How were these individuals chosen and why?
Long: The committee is comprised of trusted and highly respected industry players, each of whom bring a unique perspective and background to the process of evaluating and selecting the award recipient. Diversity and perspective were important attributes for the Committee members in ensuring submissions are well vetted. We also believe that the quality of the selection committee will help strengthen the value and relevance of this award for many years to come.
What does the award itself entail – what does the winner receive?
Thompson: In my opinion, the most valuable industry awards are those that highlight outstanding achievements backed by measurable results. They not only recognize the recipients but help benefit the entire industry by documenting and communicating best practices. When our 2019 Channel Excellence Award recipients are announced this spring, they will receive an elegant trophy and be featured in an in-depth video case study. But above all, they will be recognized as industry thought leaders and outstanding business partners.
Where can interested parties go for more information?
Long: Applications for the AASA Channel Excellence Award Presented by Epicor are available here and are due by Tuesday, Jan. 15. Programs or initiatives launched in the past 18 months are eligible for the award.
Entries must detail a collaborative effort between an aftermarket supplier and channel partner, including retailers, e-tailers, distributors, repair facilities, national service chains, etc. In addition, the program must be innovative and utilize technology, such as data analytics, robotics, artificial intelligence and/or digital business processes. The award application process is unique in that finalists will submit short videos, which will be used to select the ultimate winner. The finalists' videos will be posted to the AASA and Epicor websites and will be played at the 2019 AASA Vision Conferencehttps://www.aftermarketsuppliers.org/events/vision-conference.


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At the Azusa Revival, sister Carney was watched by a young lady called Goldie. Goldie observed Carney for 4 days and then started doing the same as she did and was getting the same results. Sister Carney, had two young men 13-14 yrs old – Ralph Riggs and C. W. Ward and they were ever…read more
Luke 1:6-45 It appears that Zacharia and Elizabeth were God-fearing all their days and were without fault in living righteously. His public life as a priest was exemplary. Their private life however was painful as they were barren.They were unproductive. Zacharia went about his priestly duty appointed to him on that day. The words in…read more
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I set about this at this 'crusade' – hence the plan given. I knew something was changing. To be on that same field where Jesus and the Holy Spirit had been before. I knew about T.L.Osborn – I had his book in my study at home and devoured his teachings. Not only that I read…read more
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By Jaya Ramachandran
BONN (IDN) – Over 700 leading businesses around the world, together representing 2.62 gigatons of emissions equivalent to the total annual emissions of India, have made strategic climate commitments through the 'We Mean Business' coalition's Take Action campaign.
Organizers of the Global Climate Action Summit (GCAS) to be held in San Francisco from September 12-14, 2018 have provided new evidence of how cities, states, regions, businesses and investors are taking climate ambition to the next level. In doing so, they are helping to build momentum for a successful outcome for the UN Climate Change Conference in Katowice, Poland (COP24) from December 3-14.
The GCAS organizers refer specifically to 11 new commitments from Mahindra, among India's largest business houses, that have pushed the number of major global companies with science-based targets to over 400,
The summit in San Francisco will be hosted by the Governor of California, Jerry Brown; the UN Secretary General's Special Envoy for Climate Action, Michael Bloomberg; the Chairman of the Mahindra Group, Anand Mahindra; and the Executive Secretary of UN Climate Change, Patricia Espinosa.
Speaking to delegates and journalists on the margins of the UN Climate Change Conference concluding in Bonn on May 10, Anirban Ghosh, Chief Sustainability Officer of the Mahindra Group announced that business had taken an important step forwards.
In total, 13 of its companies have now committed to cut their emissions in line with the Paris Climate Change Agreement goals by signing-up to a science-based target.
The Agreement aims at keeping warming well below 2 degrees C, and ideally 1.5 degrees C – temperatures that could lead to catastrophic consequences – worldwide emissions must start trending down by 2020.
Welcoming the notable steps taken by businesses around the world, Summit Co-Chair and top UN Climate Change Executive Secretary Patricia Espinosa said: "At COP24 in Katowice, the world has much to accomplish to ensure that the Paris Agreement delivers the desired result, which is to keep climate change within manageable limits. Thankfully, the revolutionary progress underway in the 'real world' economy, which will descend on California in September, will be instrumental to helping make Poland a success."
The announcement by the Mahindra Group responds to one of the five 'Summit Challenges' being presented to sub-national governments, business and civil society worldwide in advance of the San Francisco Summit.
Its commitment falls under the second of the five challenges – Inclusive Economic Growth – and means that so far 400 companies have positively reacted to this particular "call to action," which aims to sign on 500 companies by the conclusion of GCAS in September.
Anand Mahindra, Mahindra Group Chairman said: "There is remarkable congruity between the goals of the Paris Agreement, the Indian Government, and businesses like the Mahindra Group. India, like the Agreement, is driven by a strong belief at the highest political level that pursuing environmental stability is the only way forward."
As a result, said Mahindra, India has set extremely ambitious targets in the area of renewable resources and is actually ahead of schedule in meeting some of these. "In my business, we are driven by the belief that sustainability is a business opportunity as well as a way to make work meaningful for our young millennials. So, from all angles, I am delighted to accelerate the momentum created by the Paris Agreement," the Mahindra Group Chairman added.
In addition to adding critical momentum to the COP24 negotiations in Poland this December, when governments of the world will meet to signal their readiness to enhance ambition, the GCAS will build momentum for a strong outcome at the Climate Summit convened by UN Secretary-General António Guterres in 2019 and to elevate climate action plans – Nationally Determined Contributions, or NDCs – by 2020.
Nick Nuttall, Global Climate Action Summit Communications Director said: "2018 is the year when the world must step up climate action to bend down emissions by 2020 – and set the stage for the fast and full implementation of the Paris Climate Change Agreement and its crucial temperature goal."
The Summit will showcase climate action around the world, along with bold new commitments, to give world leaders the confidence they can go even further by 2020.
The Summit's five headline challenge areas are Healthy Energy Systems; Inclusive Economic Growth; Sustainable Communities; Land Stewardship and Transformative Climate Investments
A series of reports are set to be launched over the coming months and at the Summit underlining the contribution of states and regions, cities, businesses, investors and civil society, also known as "non-party stakeholders" to national and international efforts to address climate change.
Many partners are supporting the Summit and the mobilization in advance including Climate Group; the Global Covenant of Mayors; the C40 Cities Climate Leadership Group; BSR; We Mean Business; CDP, formerly the Carbon Disclosure Project; the World Wide Fund for Nature; and Mission 2020. [IDN-InDepthNews – 07 May 2018]
Photo (left to right): UN Climate Change Executive Secretary Patricia Espinosa; Anirban Ghosh, Chief Sustainability Officer of the Mahindra Group; and Nick Nuttall, Global Climate Action Summit Communications Director. Credit: UNFCCC
IDN is flagship agency of the International Press Syndicate.
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