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Curriculum-Related Bills Passed by the 2015 Legislature
Dual Credit, Instruction in High School, College, and Career Preparation, and Public Outreach Promoting Curriculum Changes
Dual Credit
Prohibits THECB rules from limiting the number of dual-credit courses or hours in which a student may enroll while in high school or each semester of an academic year.
Joint High School and Junior College Credit Courses
Requires a course offered for joint high school and junior college credit to be taught by a qualified instructor approved or selected by the junior college. Prescribes the minimum degree requirements for an instructor to be qualified that includes holding:
- a doctoral or master's degree in the discipline that is the subject of the course
- a master's degree in another discipline with a concentration that required completion of a minimum of 18 graduate semester hours in the discipline that is the subject of the course
- other specified qualifications, if the person is a teacher of a course that is offered in an associate degree program not designed for transfer to a baccalaureate degree program
Mandates that by the 60th day after receipt, a public junior college approve or reject an application to teach a course at a high school that is submitted by an instructor employed by the school district, organization, or other person who operates the high school with which the junior college entered into an agreement to offer the course.
Amends the Labor Code to allow funds to be awarded from the skills development fund to a school district to be used under an agreement with a lower-division institution of higher education to support courses offered for joint high school and college credit.
Instruction in High School, College, and Career Preparation
Requires each school district to provide instruction to students in grades 7 or 8 in preparing for high school, college, and a career. Mandates that the instruction include information on the creation of a high school personal graduation plan, the distinguished level of achievement, each endorsement, college readiness standards, and potential career choices along with the education required for those choices.
Allows a district to provide the instruction as part of an existing course in the required curriculum, as part of an existing CTE course, designated by the SBOE as appropriate for that purpose, or in a new elective course. Requires a district to ensure that each student receive this instruction at least once in grades 7 or 8.
Applies beginning with the 2015-16 school year.
Public Outreach Promoting Curriculum Changes
Requires TEA to develop uniform public outreach materials that explain the importance and outline the details of public school curriculum changes (made under HB 5, 83rd Texas Legislature). Mandates the materials be made available in English, Spanish, and Vietnamese. Requires the materials to be in a form that can be mailed and that they include an explanation of the basic career and college-readiness components of each endorsement, the curriculum requirements for automatic college admission, and applicable course, graduation plan, and endorsement requirements for financial aid, including particular grant and loan programs. Requires TEA to develop these materials by December 1, 2015, and expires this section September 1, 2018.
Earliest effective date: Immediately
Other provisions listed under Accountability, Assessment, Staff Development, and the Texas High Performance Schools Consortium.
Gonzales, Larry
Adapting Physical Education for Mentally Disabled Students
Requires the PE curriculum to meet the needs of students who have a disability, including a student who is a person with a disability described under Texas Education Code Section 29.003(b) or through criteria developed by TEA in accordance with that section.
Earliest effective date: Immediately
Rodriguez, Eddie
Prohibition of Limitation on Number of Dual-Credit Courses or Hours
Prohibits the commissioner or the THECB from adopting a rule limiting the number of dual-credit courses or hours in which a student may enroll while in high school, the number of dual-credit courses or hours in which a student may enroll each semester or academic year, or the grade levels at which a student may be eligible to enroll in a dual-credit course.
Applies beginning with the 2015-16 school year.
Earliest effective date: Immediately
Lucio III, Eddie
Pre-K Funding Enhancement Linked to Three-Year High School Diploma Program
Adds an adjustment in the Foundation School Program for certain school districts with early high school graduation programs by establishing a pilot program that enables the state to evaluate the benefit of providing additional funds at the pre-K level for low-income students.
Requires the commissioner to provide pre-K funding to a school district located in a county that borders Mexico and the Gulf of Mexico. Mandates that the commissioner provide funding for a district's pre-K program on a half-day basis for a number of low-income students equal to twice the number of students who received, as a result of participation in an early high school graduation program operated by the district, a high school diploma from the district during the preceding school year after three years of secondary school attendance. Allows the commissioner to adopt rules.
Earliest effective date: September 1, 2015
TEKS Review
Requires the TEA to study the TEKS of the required (foundation) curriculum, STAAR tests, and EOC exams. Mandates that the study evaluate: the number and scope of the TEKS and whether either should be limited; the number and subjects of STAAR tests in grades 3-8; and how assessments assess standards essential for student success and whether they should also assess supporting standards.
Mandates TEA to report the results of its study to the SBOE by March 1, 2016. Requires the SBOE to review the study and submit to the governor and each member of the Legislature TEA's report and SBOE recommendations regarding each issue evaluated.
Applies beginning with the 2015-16 school year.
Earliest effective date: Immediately
Other provisions listed under Assessment.
King, Susan
Inclusion of Mental Health in the Public Service Endorsement
Requires TEA to ensure that information provided to students related to health science careers include information on mental health professions. States that to the extent the Public Services Endorsement includes information on health science career pathways, the information must include mental health careers as a possible pathway.
Earliest effective date: Immediately
King, Susan
Development of Optional Career-Oriented Foreign Language Program
Requires the SBOE, in consultation with the commissioner of higher education and business and industry leaders, to develop an advanced language course that a school district may use to instruct students in industry-related terminology that prepares them to communicate in a language other than English in a specific professional business, or industry environment.
Earliest effective date: Immediately
Alignment of TEKS with College Readiness Standards
Requires the SBOE, by January 1, 2016, to develop and adopt by rule, a chart that clearly indicates the alignment of the college readiness standards and expectations with the TEKS.
Earliest effective date: Immediately
Other provisions listed under Assessment.
Transfer of Driver and Traffic Safety Education
Amends various statutes to transfer the driver and traffic safety education program from TEA and the Department of Public Safety to the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation.
Earliest effective date: September 1, 2015
Advanced Placement (AP) Scores for Undergraduate Course Credit
Prohibits an institution of higher education from requiring a score of more than three on an AP exam for granting course credit unless the institution's chief academic officer determines, based on evidence, that a higher score is necessary to indicate that a student is sufficiently prepared to be successful in a related, more advanced course.
Requires the THECB and others to conduct a study on the performance of undergraduate students at institutions of higher education who receive undergraduate course credit for achieving required scores on one or more AP exams. Mandates that the study compare academic performance rates, retention rates, and graduation rates of students who complete a course at an institution and of students who receive AP credit for that course for a score of three or more, disaggregated by score. Requires the THECB to submit reports to various state officials by January 1, 2017, and 2019.
Earliest effective date: Immediately
Gonzales, Larry
Three-Year High School Diploma Plan Pilot Program
Allows participation in the three-year high school diploma plan pilot program by a district with an enrollment of more than 5,000 but less than 7,000 students and located primarily in a county that contains the headwaters of the San Gabriel River.
Earliest effective date: Immediately
Repeal of Dual-Credit Limit and Calculation of ADA
Repeals the limit on the number of dual-credit courses in which students can enroll under certain circumstances.
Allows the commissioner to approve off-campus instructional programs provided by an entity other than a school district or open-enrollment charter school as a program in which student participation may be counted for ADA purposes. Mandates the commissioner adopt by rule verification and reporting procedures concerning time spent by students in these instructional programs. Provides that, subject to these rules, time that a student participates in an approved off-campus instructional program shall be counted as part of the minimum number of instructional hours required for a student to be considered full time under ADA.
Earliest effective date: Immediately
Higher Education Savings Programs and Personal Financial Literacy
Allows a school district or open-enrollment charter school to establish a school-based savings program to facilitate increased awareness of the importance of saving for higher education and to facilitate personal financial literacy instruction. Permits the program to be offered in conjunction with a personal financial literacy course.
Allows a school-based savings program to promote general savings and savings for higher education by offering various types of accounts through partnerships with appropriate institutions. Addresses the establishment and function of these partnerships with financial institutions and with public sector partners, private businesses, nonprofit organizations, and philanthropic organizations.
Amends other sections of code as necessary to exclude these accounts from assets considered in determining a student's eligibility for a TEXAS grant or other state-funded financial assistance, including assistance under Human Resources Code, Chapters 31, 32, and 33. Specifies the amount of the exclusion in the amended sections of code.
Earliest effective date: Immediately
Prescription Drug Misuse Awareness Component of TEKS
Requires the SBOE to adopt essential knowledge and skills for the health curriculum that address the dangers, causes, consequences, signs, symptoms, and treatment of nonmedical use of prescription drugs. Mandates that the TEA compile a list of evidence-based prescription drug misuse awareness programs from which a school district may choose to use in its middle, junior high, and high school health curricula.
Applies beginning with the 2015-16 school year.
Earliest effective date: Immediately
Reading-to-Learn Academies for Teachers (Grades 4-5)
Requires the commissioner to develop and make available reading-to-learn academies for teachers who provide reading comprehension instruction to students in grades 4 and 5. Specifies the academy must satisfy select criteria regarding the training and resources provided.
Requires that the commissioner adopt criteria for selecting teachers to attend an academy. Mandates that the commissioner grant priority to teachers employed by a district at a campus at which 50 percent or more of the students are economically disadvantaged, and requires the provision of a process through which a teacher not employed at such a campus may attend the academy if there is available space and the employing district pays the cost.
Provides appropriated funds by which a teacher who attends an academy is entitled to a stipend as determined by the commissioner. Prevents the stipend from being considered in determining whether the district is paying the teacher the minimum monthly salary.
Earliest effective date: Immediately
Harris County Junior College Dual Credit
Allows a public junior college with a service area located wholly or partly in a county with a population of more than 3 million to enter into an articulation agreement to provide a dropout recovery program with any school district located wholly or partly in a county with a population of 3 million.
Requires a public junior college with a service area located wholly or partly in a county with a population of more than 3 million to enter into an agreement with each school district located wholly or partly in a county with a population of more than 3 million to offer one or more joint high school and junior college credit courses. Allows a student enrolled in a school district within the service area to enroll in a course.
Earliest effective date: Immediately
Teacher Input Into an Individualized Education Program (IEP)
Amends the statewide plan for the delivery of services to children with disabilities to ensure that each school district develops a process to be used by a teacher who instructs a student with a disability in a regular classroom setting to provide input in the development of the student's IEP. Provides that if a committee is required to include a regular education teacher, the regular education teacher included must, to the extent practicable, be a teacher responsible for implementing a portion of the child's IEP. Requires that the written statement of the IEP must document the committee's decisions on issues discussed at each committee meeting. Provides requirements for the statement's content. Allows each committee member who disagrees with the IEP developed to include a statement of disagreement.
Earliest effective date: Immediately


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The plot of "Logan's Run": An idyllic sci-fi future has one major drawback: life must end at 30.
In the N.F.L., it seems that life as a running back must end at 30. So by that measure, the Jets' Thomas Jones, who will be released by the Jets on Friday, has cheated fate. He has rushed for over 1,000 yards in each of the last five seasons, and he's 31. With one of the most imposing physiques in the N.F.L., he's not done. He just had an excellent season: a career-high 1,402 yards with 14 rushing touchdowns despite battling injuries and despite surrendering much of the work load to Shonn Greene.
Judy Battista of The Times wrote that the Jets' decision was all but inevitable "once it became clear that Jones, who will turn 32 before the start of the 2010 season, would not restructure his contract to save the Jets a $3 million roster bonus due next week."
Brian Westbrook and LaDainian Tomlinson have already been released by the Eagles and Chargers, an indication of how quickly even great running backs can fall off a cliff once they pass their 30th birthday.
Kerry J. Byrne of the Cold, Hard Football Facts wrote last week:
The effective end of a player's career – no matter their age – is around 2,800 touches. It's a number that makes sense with the eye test: a premier back who averages 300 touches a season will obviously cross the 2,800 mark in his 10th season. After that, the old gray mules are just plodding along uselessly.
Where does Jones fit under that formula?
He has 2,280 carries, 289 receptions and 17 kick returns. That's 2,586 touches, or about a season short of the 2,800 limit.
The idea that a running back is automatically done after 30 is bunk, Jones says; it's about health and condition, not age.
"Whoever came up with that rule obviously didn't play running back in this league, didn't prepare like I prepare, didn't watch film like I watch film, didn't take care of their body like I take care of my body," Jones said last October. "Physically, I feel like a rookie."
At Jets.com, the Jets' bosses thanked Jones for his service:
General Manager Mike Tannenbaum: "Thomas joined us three years ago and has been a productive, passionate leader both on and off the field who has served as a positive influence for our younger players. We were fortunate to acquire him and we wish him the best."
Coach Rex Ryan: "When I got here, Thomas immediately became one of my guys. He had one of his best years last season — might have been his best. I have a tremendous amount of respect for him as a player and a person. As I said the other day, this is one of the tough decisions we had to make for our organization."
Extra point: Lito Sheppard is next, via Brian Bassett of the Jets Blog:
Did the Jets make the right move? When readers of the Fifth Down were polled on their favorite moments of the 2009 season, TCinNYC wrote: "No question for me….the 4th & 1 they went for & converted to put the S.D. game away & advance to the AFC Title Game. If that didn't scream that we are in a new era in JET football, then what did? We trusted the best line in the game to get it done & TJ came through. Biggest play of my JET fan life & I have seen them all. It was a signature moment if you ask me."

subset: commoncrawl


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ICS specialises in the production of compelling and cost-effective, quick turnaround bespoke video, which allows clients to offer their customers topical rich-media coverage.
Video is a powerful means of engagement and is easily shared on social media. It can further enhance content pages when embedded, while developing a YouTube channel containing a playlist of relevant content can benefit a client on many levels.
We employ a number of specialist reporters who are skilled newscasters and presenters, and can deliver strong coverage on any trending topic or upcoming event.
For example, our correspondents can provide entertaining video previews and analysis of weekend football, horse racing or other betting events which can be branded to a client's wishes. Our expert broadcasters can also link their conversation to a bookmaker's odds and promotions to boost awareness.
ICS can also create unique marketing videos on a range of subjects, with no job too big or small. As well as the sports preview videos, we have experience in creating how to guides and fun content on topics such as celebrity, entertainment and politics.


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How To Get Rid Of A Stuffy Nose
Wnat to learn how to get rid of a stuffy nose? Whether your stuffy nose is caused by a common cold or allergies, you need relief for your symptoms and need to make breathing easier! There are a great number of commercial over-the-counter products, as well as natural remedies, that can be used to get rid of a stuffy nose.
Over-the-Counter Products Used to Get Rid of a Stuffy Nose
- Asprin, ibuprofen and other NSAID medications have anti-inflammatory properties. Taking the recommended dosage will help to reduce swelling of the nasal passages, allowing mucus to drain.
- Decongestants are available which also help to reduce swelling of nasal passages and reduce congestion.
- Menthol ointment placed on the tip and under the nose can help clear nasal passages.
Natural Remedies Used to Get Rid of a Stuffy Nose
- Blow a stuffy nose to remove built up mucous. If blowing does not remove mucous, do not continue blowing as this can cause the nasal passages further irritation.
- Eucalyptus oil added to a bath or vaporizer can help clear the nasal passages.
- Make a cup of peppermint tea. Sip the tea slowly, breathing in the steam. This will help open nasal passages and relieve a stuffy nose.
Additional Suggestions for Getting Rid of a Stuffy Nose
- Drink plenty of clear liquids. Keeping the body hydrated will help in clearing a stuffy nose.
- Sit or stand up. If a stuffy nose is worse when lying or sitting, standing up and taking a few steps will help clear a stuffy nose.
- Sleep with the head slightly elevated. Elevate the head at night with a stack of pillows or a folded blanket. This will help keep the nasal passages from plugging, allowing for a better night's sleep.
For more information on treating a stuffy nose and other cold symptoms, see the latest version of Prescription for Nutritional Healing by Phyllis A. Balch, CNC and James F. Balch, MD
*The information in this article is for informational purposes only and should not take the place of professional medical advice.


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If you have gone to the movies a couple of times in the last twenty years you have seen his work; his Set Designs on "Get him to the Greek" or "Star Trek: Nemesis", his Art Direction on "Pirates of the Caribbean: on Stranger Tides" or "House Bunny", his Production Designs on the acclaimed dramatic Television series "American Family" or the gritty independent film "Prey for Rock and Roll". Chichester's professional career as a Designer for Motion Pictures spans the last twenty years, "Tropic Thunder" and "Team America" are but two of his favorites. It is an exciting time for Production Design in filmmaking, the possibilities of Production Design are ever expanding and constantly being redefined by our society and technological innovation, and yet with this constant change, the basic approach will always remain the same: telling a good story in the best way possible. Chichester's goals in teaching: to impart to the students the foundation of esthetic and practical knowledge to launch a professional career in Production Design, to enable them to make the bold strong choices needed in design for films today.
All faculty at Chapman University
Argyros School of Business & Economics
Attallah College of Educational Studies
Crean College of Health and Behavioral Sciences
Dodge College of Film and Media Arts
Schmid College of Science & Technology


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NOVEMBER 24, 2014 — Ferry industry trade association Interferry has welcomed a decision at last week's IMO Maritime Safety Committee meeting (MSC94) setting out rules for the location of fuel tanks on LNG fueled ferries. It says that the decision will safeguard further development of the LNG fueling option.
Key member states agreed a way forward that offers impact protection of the tanks in the event of collision or grounding while avoiding the potentially prohibitive requirements of proposals previously under discussion.
Until now the IMO's efforts to avoid damage to LNG tanks and the consequent fire hazard have focused on placement of the tanks according to a mix of prescriptive rules and sophisticated calculation models. This has caused increasing concern among ship designers and owners because LNG is more voluminous per energy content than conventional fuels and therefore needs bigger tank systems.
That approach could have so limited tank space that vessels would have had to refuel at every call.
Now ship designers have been given two options for fuel tank location. The first allows ferries and other ships to make use of the same rules that large LNG tankers have been operating under for decades without any LNG-related accidents. Under this traditional approach, LNG fuel tanks must be placed at a distance from the hull of at least 20% of the width of the ship, minimizing the chance of them being hit in a collision.
Alternatively, using what Interferry terms the "more sophisticated" approach, tanks may be located closer to the hull if the placement can be made equally safe through measures such as making the tanks shorter to distance them from a potential strike area.
"While we strongly advocate safe designs and solutions, we also support the development of new technologies that will help increase the sustainability of our industry," says Interferry regulatory affairs director Johan Roos. "The IMO decision provides a predictable framework for the protection of LNG tanks and removes concerns over rules that, in effect, would have made LNG non-accessible as a fuel for ferries due to too restrictive requirements on tank location and size."
Mr. Roos stressed that, although LNG is nominally less expensive per energy output than diesel fuels, the overall investment cost for an LNG-powered ferry could be unbearable when factoring in the cost of shoreside refueling infrastructure, so owners would not be able to invest in this new technology.


text: Ravishing Vacation Rentals\nFrom historic villas to stylish contemporary beach houses, AD presents a portfolio of spectacular homes away from home.\nSTATS\\n\\n 12 BEDROOMS\\n\\n 9 BATHS\\n\\n 4 HALF BATHS\\n\\n 30,000 SQ. FT.\\n\\n FROM $55,530/WEEK\\n\\nPedigree: This historic residence was built in the 1700s by the Swiss architect Felice Soave for Count Passalacqua and is one of the most lavish villas around Lake Como. The simple, symmetrical façade conceals a crisply luxurious interior, featuring exquisite painted ceilings, Seminato flooring, Persian rugs, and Venetian chandeliers.\\n\\nProperty Values: Noted for its formal gardens, the seven-acre estate stretches from the village of Moltrasio down to the lake's shore. A 12th-century bell tower stands watch over the pool, and a six-bedroom guesthouse can be rented as well.\\n\\nTalking Point: Composer Vincenzo Bellini wrote his most famous operas, Norma and La Sonnambula, while living at the villa from 1829 to 1833.\\n\\nContact: Villas and Apartments Abroad, 212-213-6435; vaanyc.com\nSTATS\\n\\n 3 BEDROOMS\\n\\n 4 BATHS\\n\\n 1 HALF BATH\\n\\n 5,800 SQ. FT.\\n\\n FROM $60,000/MONTH\\n\\nPedigree: In 2002 Napa Valley architect Howard J. Backen was commissioned to transform a single-story 1890s farmhouse into an intimate wine-country retreat (AD, October 2009). Rather than adding an upstairs level, he built a separate master suite—connecting it to the house via a glass foyer—and a charming stand-alone guesthouse. Romantic touches such as white-painted ceiling beams, French windows, and rustic wood floors are used throughout.\\n\\nProperty Values: Located within walking distance of downtown St. Helena, the one-acre home features a pool and gardens by landscape designer Claudia Schmidt.\\n\\nTalking Point: The three structures form a courtyard around a majestic 400-year-old oak tree.\\n\\nContact: BeautifulPlaces, 800-495-9961; beautiful-places.com\nSTATS\\n\\n 6 BEDROOMS\\n\\n 6 BATHS\\n\\n 1 HALF BATH\\n\\n 26,900 SQ. FT.\\n\\n FROM $82,240/WEEK\\n\\nPedigree: Perched atop a hill on picturesque Ithaca Island, this grand Venetian-style mansion combines old-world Italian elegance with an exquisite Grecian setting. The interiors feature striking antiques, including leather-covered Louis XIV wing chairs, an 18th-century Hungarian commode, and a Murano glass chandelier, while outdoor terraces and loggias provide ideal spots to take in the panoramic views.\\n\\nProperty Values: Golf carts can be used to explore the 250-acre estate, which is lushly landscaped with Cypress and olive trees and includes a pool, a gym, and a guesthouse.\\n\\nTalking Point: The rental comes with a classic Riva Chris-Craft boat and captain, for jaunts along the Ionian coast.\\n\\nContact: Cédric Reversade Unique Properties, 011-44-20-7788-7815; cedricreversade.com\nSTATS\\n\\n 8 BEDROOMS\\n\\n 8 BATHS\\n\\n 10,000 SQ. FT.\\n\\n FROM $5,679/NIGHT\\n\\nPedigree: Designed for entertaining, this two-villa Mediterranean property dates back to 1908. The crisp contemporary interiors are the result of a recent renovation, and the main house features a grand dining room with an oversize table that seats 16. Each of the airy bedrooms features an en suite bathroom and a private balcony or terrace.\\n\\nProperty Values: At the heart of this nearly one-acre estate—a short walk from the center of Saint-Tropez—is a vast swimming pool, flanked by palms, cabanas, and a fleet of chaise lounges.\\n\\nTalking Point: Guests can request a full-time chef and three waiters to preside over the impressive kitchen.\\n\\nContact: LaCure Villas, 800-387-2726; lacurevillas.com\nSTATS\\n\\n 5 BEDROOMS\\n\\n 6 BATHS\\n\\n 10,000 SQ. FT.\\n\\n FROM $4,000/NIGHT\\n\\nPedigree: Located in a picturesque coastal town just north of Rio de Janeiro, this dramatic rectilinear house was created in 2007 by the Toronto-based firm Designcorp. The heart of the structure is a double-height living and entertaining area, with sliding glass doors that blend the indoor and outdoor spaces. Upstairs, the bedrooms are entered through a garden courtyard; all offer commanding ocean views.\\n\\nProperty Values: The 5.45-acre plot includes a stunning infinity pool and covered outdoor dining terrace.\\n\\nTalking Point: Guests have access to a dune buggy for riding around Ferradura Beach, which is only a two-minute drive away.\\n\\nContact: LaCure Villas, 800-387-2726; lacurevillas.com\nSTATS\\n\\n 9 BEDROOMS\\n\\n 9 BATHS\\n\\n 35,000 SQ. FT.\\n\\n FROM $42,103/WEEK\\n\\nPedigree: Located in the Orkney Islands, a few miles off Scotland's northern coast, magnificent Balfour Castle was designed by the Victorian architect David Bryce in 1847 for David Balfour, a Scottish Laird. A rare example of a calendar house, the original structure had seven turrets, 12 external doors, 52 rooms, and 365 sections of windows. Since coming under new ownership in 2009, the manor has been sensitively redecorated and restored.\\n\\nProperty Values: The 600-acre estate offers extensive gardens and woodlands, as well as numerous outdoor activities such as horseback riding, clay-pigeon shooting, trout fishing, and seal watching.\\n\\nTalking Point: In addition to running the kitchen, award-winning local chef Jean-Baptiste Bady teaches cooking classes for guests.\\n\\nContact: Loyd & Townsend-Rose, 011-44-1835-824-642; ltr.co.uk\nSTATS\\n\\n 2 BEDROOMS\\n\\n 2 BATHS\\n\\n 4,305 SQ. FT.\\n\\n FROM $1,200/NIGHT\\n\\nPedigree: Formerly the ceramics workshop of a beloved Brazilian artist known as Cala, this white cement structure was converted into a chic Bohemian beach hut by local architect Daniela Lattari. Accented with aged tatajuba wood and furniture and decorative objects created by local craftsmen, there are also modern comforts like flat-screen TVs, wireless Internet, and a full-time staff.\\n\\nProperty Values: Situated in a private quarter-acre enclave, the cottage has a pool inlaid with green aventurine and is only a short walk from both the hip village and its numerous beaches.\\n\\nTalking Point: One of Cala's huge ceramic kilns was creatively transformed into an outdoor barbecue.\\n\\nContact: The Brazilian Beach House Co., 011-55-21-2225-9476; brazilianbeachhouse.com\nSTATS\\n\\n 4 BEDROOMS\\n\\n 4 BATHS\\n\\n 5,350 SQ. FT.\\n\\n FROM $2,645/NIGHT\\n\\nPedigree: This Baroque property was originally built as a residence for Episcopal clergy in 1680 and served as the home of Bauhaus artist Edward Ghillausen from 1926 until 2000. Positioned on a cliff overlooking Positano and the Mediterranean beyond, the jewel-toned palazzo is formally decorated with gilt-framed artwork, plush furniture, and exquisitely frescoed walls.\\n\\nProperty Values: The 0.15-acre plot boasts a pool and verdant gardens filled with lemon and orange trees; oversized terraces feature dining alcoves, sun lounges, and spectacular panoramic views.\\n\\nTalking Point: Ancient Roman baths on the site have been replaced with an elaborate spa area that boasts a sauna and hammam.\\n\\nContact: LaCure Villas, 800-387-2726; lacurevillas.com\nSTATS\\n\\n 4 BEDROOMS\\n\\n 4 BATHS\\n\\n 3,000 SQ. FT.\\n\\n FROM $4,500/WEEK\\n\\nPedigree: Located on one of the most exclusive spots on Cape Cod, this award-winning contemporary beach house was built by Alexandria, Virginia–based architect Michael Winstanley to be his own vacation home. Designed to recall the area's legacy of boatbuilding and fishing, the wood-framed residence features dramatic floor-to-ceiling windows and bold interiors by Robert Pahnke.\\n\\nProperty Values: An expansive wraparound porch provides abundant areas for relaxing and entertaining, and a boardwalk leads to a private beach.\\n\\nTalking Point: The house is elevated on wooden pilings three feet above the sand, so as not to disturb the site's natural vegetation.\\n\\nContact: HomeAway, 877-228-3145; homeaway.com\nSTATS\\n\\n 6 BEDROOMS\\n\\n 8 BATHS\\n\\n 12,915 SQ. FT.\\n\\n FROM $30,265/WEEK\\n\\nPedigree: Designed by French architect Pierre Louis Faloci in 1985, this modernist compound on Portugal's southern coast features a white concrete exterior and unique gridlike buttresses. It consists of three separate buildings, with simple monochromatic interiors that highlight the lush landscape, and overlooks the sea on a private lagoon.\\n\\nProperty Values: Located on 18 acres of the Ria Formosa nature preserve, the exquisite gardens are overflowing with lavender, rosemary, and pelargonium, and there are two swimming pools—one small and shallow, making it perfect for children.\\n\\nTalking Point: The area is protected for bird migration and is a stopping point for more than 30,000 birds, from avocets to white wagtails, in the spring and fall.\\n\\nContact: Cédric Reversade Unique Properties, 011-44-20-7788-7815; cedricreversade.com\nSTATS\\n\\n 9 BEDROOMS\\n\\n 6 BATHS\\n\\n 4 HALF BATHS\\n\\n 12,000 SQ. FT.\\n\\n FROM $24,330/WEEK\\n\\nPedigree: This classical Georgian home is the work of John Wood the Elder, the important 18th-century architect from Bath. Built in the 1730s, it is revered for its Palladian-style limestone façade and pristinely preserved interiors, now filled with contemporary furnishings and artwork by the likes of Bridget Riley.\\n\\nProperty Values: Forty-five acres of parkland feature manicured gardens, a pool, a tennis court, numerous outbuildings, and a herd of Hebridean sheep.\\n\\nTalking Point: The house has been awarded a Grade I listing by English Heritage, making it a place of exceptional historic interest.\\n\\nContact: Blandings, 011-44-207-936-9611; blandings.co.uk


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find a SAKS Salon
and book online today
If you've not experienced Saks yet, why not make this the year that you do?
As we're now in our 40s there's never been a better time to come on in get Saksy. Pop in, give us a call or book online... we're here for all your hair and beauty and we'd love to welcome you in.
To find your local Saks hair and/or beauty salon and to get involved with #Saks4Eve, search here.
Online booking isn't available in all Saks salons at the mo but it soon will be - keep checking back with us.
If you experience any problems finding your nearest Saks salon -
Just give us a call: 0845 678 0290.
Saks Hair
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text: ZD writes: I've mentioned numerous times while I've worked on Zelda Dungeon that I never really found the ReDeads scary in Ocarina of Time. Or… anything at all scary in Ocarina of Time, actually. Things like the ReDeads and the Shadow Temple both provided too familiar and cliched of ideas without enough suspense and danger to make me feel scared. With that said, that doesn't mean there aren't cool moments with these undead beasts, and it doesn't mean that they won't scare other people. My favorite moments with the ReDeads have nothing to do with the Bottom of the Well or the Shadow Temple, but rather are their first appearances within either time period in the game.


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Google Inc delighted free-speech advocates as it threatened to pull out of China over censorship and cyber attacks. Analysts said Google's decision is tantamount to exiting the world's largest Internet market, with more than 360 million users, since it is highly unlikely the Chinese government would allow Google to operate an unfiltered search engine.
src- economic times


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Download EBOOK Global Communication PDF for free
Category: Reference
The author of the book: Cees Jan Hamelink
Format files: PDF, EPUB, TXT, DOCX
The size of the: 32.65 MB
Language: English
Edition: Sage Publications Ltd
Date of issue: 2 January 2015
Description of the book "Global Communication":Global Communication explores the history, present and future of global communication, introducing and explaining the theories, stories and flows of information and media that affect us all. Based on his experience teaching generations of students to critically examine the world of communication around them, Cees Hamelink helps readers understand the thinkers, concepts and questions in this changing landscape. This book: * Explores the cultural, economic, political and social dimensions and consequences of global communication * Introduces the key thinkers who have been inspirational to the field * Teaches you to master the art of asking critical questions * Takes you through concrete cases from UN PDF summits to hot lines and cyber-surveillance * Boosts your essay skills with a guided tour of the literature, including helpful comments and recommendations of what to cite * Brings you directly into the classroom with a series of video lectures This book guides students through the complex terrain of global communication, helping you become a critically informed participant in the ever-changing communication landscape. It is essential reading for students of communication and media studies.
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Chicago, IL
Industry: IT Consulting/Services•
5 - 7 years
Posted 299 days ago
Reporting to the Associate Director, Distributor Chargeback Operations, this position will lead the development and implementation of analytics and reporting for Contract Operations across US Region businesses through the provision of timely, accurate, and actionable analytics and reporting for financial, operational, team member, and distributor performance.
The Sr. Analyst is accountable to develop analytic and reporting solutions through collaboration with IT and Commercial Analytics to meet the needs of Contract Operations leaders and team members, and provide training and support to ensure effective team utilization of solutions. The Sr. Analyst will promote process and tools standardization and best practices to drive team efficiency and performance improvements and be the primary provider and communicator of distributor metrics for Operations Efficiency programs, distributor collaboration calls, and other daily operations activities.
The Sr. Analyst will understand Commercial Contract Operations and associated policies, ensuring that the US Commercial Operations strategy is implemented. Engaging and collaborating closely with Distributor partners, Channel Management, Finance, and other Commercial Operations pillars, this position will provide tools, training, and support to drive efficient and accurate chargeback operations to optimize US Region results and overall financialrisk.
? This position will not have any direct reports, but will directly influence the results of the Contract Operations team through the deployment and support of best practice processes and analytic tools
Essential Responsibilities:
Develop, implement, train, and support analytics and reporting for the Contract Operations team to enable operational accuracy, timeliness, and efficiency.Lead solutions that drive operational best practices, standardization, and performance improvements.Coordinate with IT, Commercial Analytics, and other Commercial Operations pillars to develop and deploy solutions that support Contract Operations strategies and policies.Provide leadership in design and drive implementation of a more efficient end to end chargeback resolution process for the distributor base in order to mitigate and control chargeback disputesAccountable to develop, maintain, and communicate distributor metrics to internal and external stakeholdersSupportAssociate Director with industry organizations and initiatives to develop and drive best industry practices in an effort to increase pricing accuracy, eliminate errors and streamline processesExercise appropriate controls to minimize disputed chargeback financial exposure and rebate reserves across all businessesCollaborate with our Vistex IT partners to ensure the business requirements are supported while ensuring technology functionality and performance appropriately supportscontracting activities Provide subject matter expertise and drive the design and implementation of solutions that improve accuracy, timeliness, and efficiency for team member business process operationsEnsure team member training and capability for chargeback process internal control procedures and monitor SOX complianceMaintain all chargeback related training material and updated desktop procedures in order to ensure standard team practices that adhere to best practice efficiency and accuracyDefine and enforce policies, procedures, and processes to harmonize all aspects of distributor operations, with appropriate flexibility to meet customer/market needs and dynamicsIdentify and understand key areas of change management with the ability to recognize and communicate the impact of change to Chargeback Operations functional teamsUnderstand and measure team performance for KPI?s (key performance indicators), SLA?s (service level agreements), and IIG?s in order to hold the team accountable for achieving the key strategic goals of the organizationInspire and empower the team to act with speed, agility and accountability enabling them to achieve excellenceProvide guidance and coaching to realize benefits with solution deployments and process improvementsQualifications
BA/BS required5+ years?experience in commercial contract operations, analytics, finance, policy and process development and continuous improvement activities3+ years?experience demonstrated experience developing, deploying, and supporting analytic and reporting solutionsStrong technical skills in applications such as MS Access, Excel, Qlik, Business Intelligence and Vistex SAP ERP systems along with analytics and reporting solutions experienceGeneral understanding of commercial contract operations managementProven ability to quickly establish credibility, trust, and support within all levels of organization.Demonstrated ability to collaborate with IT, Commercial Analytics, Finance, and others to drive best in class analytic and reporting solutions for contract operations efficiency, timeliness and accuracyAnalytical problem solver with business acumen. Able to evaluate key business drivers and develop clear solution recommendationsDemonstrated project management skills and ability to drive team resultsProven ability to stimulate and enable innovative thinking to drive change and effectiveness through high automation and process excellence Demonstrated ability to understand, organize and deliver on critical business requirements to drive solutions that advance our Contract Operations capabilities and achieve operational goalsStrong communications and change management experienceAbility to travel, up to ~10-15%Key Competencies
Technical / Analytical / Functional ProficiencyProcess / Operational EffectivenessLeadership CourageCustomer FocusDrive for ResultsTeamworkTraining and Support of Team
Security Clearance Required: No
Visa Candidate Considered: No
Base Salary - $80,000 to $80,000
Full-time Benefits - Full
Relocation Assistance Available - No
Commission Compensation - No
Bonus Eligible - No
Overtime Eligible - No
Interview Travel Reimbursed - No
5+ to 7 years experience
Seniority Level - Associate
Management ExperienceRequired - No
Minimum Education - Bachelor's Degree
Willingness to Travel - Occasionally