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Congress Approves Historic Bill to Create Greater Opportunities for Students to Succeed
"We applaud Congress for getting the job done—passing the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA)—and doing what is right for students, teachers, and public education," said CEA President Sheila Cohen. "ESSA represents a new beginning for students who have suffered too long under Connecticut's failed policies of top-down reform and a broken system where excessive test prep and standardized testing rules the classroom."
The U.S. Senate today passed ESSA after it passed the House last week. President Obama is expected to sign the bill into law tomorrow. Read CEA's news release here.
"ESSA gives students new opportunities, support, tools, and time to learn," said Cohen.
The bipartisan bill reauthorizes the federal education law known as the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA). The most recent version of ESEA, known as No Child Left Behind, was signed into law by President Bush in 2002.
Efforts by the U.S. Department of Education to waive certain NCLB requirements placed numerous, onerous demands on states and shifted even more focus to test scores and away from student-centered learning.
ESSA provides new areas of state authority and the opportunity for teachers to advocate for new state laws and guidelines that enhance teaching and learning.
The bill allows for a reduction in the amount of standardized testing in schools and, most importantly, permits the decoupling of high-stakes decision-making and statewide standardized tests so that students have more time to learn and teachers have more time to teach. ESSA also begins to close opportunity gaps confronting students by providing a new accountability system that includes—for the first time—indicators of opportunity and student support.
Here is a brief overview of ESSA's provisions and opportunities.
Federal Department of Education Oversight
Under U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan, states had to implement radical reforms in order to obtain federal funding or a waiver from some requirements of NCLB. ESSA specifically limits the powers of the secretary and the role of the U.S. Department of Education in state and local decisions affecting schools.
Educator evaluation
In order to receive a waiver from NCLB, states (including Connecticut) had to adopt federally prescribed educator evaluation systems. ESSA specifically prohibits the U.S. Secretary of Education from prescribing "any aspect of or parameter of a teacher, principal, or other school leader evaluation system" in the future. This is a positive step toward making educator evaluation more effective and meaningful. However, Connecticut state law and agency guidelines still include radical provisions—to meet previous federal requirements—that are roadblocks to high-quality teaching and learning.
"Teachers and students have lived with the unintended and failed consequences of NCLB for too long. In order to change course in Connecticut, it will be incumbent on Connecticut's dedicated teachers to do what we have always done—wage a mobilization and advocacy campaign on behalf of our students to urge position changes to state education policies," said Cohen.
Challenging state academic standards
Adopting a national set of Common Core State Standards is no longer required in order to obtain federal dollars. Instead, ESSA requires states to adopt "challenging state academic standards" in, at a minimum, English, math, and science. Consequently, states can exercise more freedom in adopting their own unique standards. This is an opportunity for teachers across the state to address the appropriateness of the current standards in each grade and the potential for revisions.
During the era of NCLB, states were required to administer annual assessments in grades 3-8, and once in high school. To meet this requirement, states put all of their assessment eggs in the high-stakes standardized testing basket. Under ESSA, annual assessments are still required in English language arts and math; science assessments are required once each in elementary, middle, and high school. However, more leeway is permitted when selecting local assessments, inviting input and advocacy from Connecticut teachers.
Student performance reporting
One positive aspect of NCLB was the disaggregation of student performance data by subgroups. While this subgrouping was inappropriately used to identify schools as "failing," it has helped states and districts identify pockets of greatest need. Under ESSA, disaggregation is still required, but the use of a single subgroup to identify schools is reduced.
School and District Performance
Under NCLB, school and district performance was almost entirely measured by standardized test scores. ESSA shifts some of this focus by requiring states to adopt additional indicators, including student growth, graduation rates, and at least one indicator that could include school climate, educator engagement, course offerings, or other indicators of school quality.
The weight of these factors is left to the states, as long as academic performance remains the most significant factor. Consequently, input from teachers will be crucial to shaping state policies that determine the most important outcomes of teaching and learning.
School Improvement Plans
School improvement plans are no longer required to include sanctions, impose school choice, or hand over public schools to corporate management companies as was the case under NCLB.
Under ESSA, schools identified as requiring improvement plans are those:
1) among the lowest performing five percent based on all indicators;
2) with a cohort graduation rate of less than 67 percent; and
3) demonstrating the lowest performance of subgroups.
Schools identified as in need of improvement must develop comprehensive improvement plans locally. The plans must include evidence-based interventions and identify resource inequities. States will be required to monitor improvement and to require additional interventions if schools are not improving according to the local plans.
Waivers from NCLB will expire August 1, 2016, and ESSA will begin to go into effect in the 2016-17 school year. But schools undergoing improvement plans will be required to abide by existing timelines until their plans expire. Conditions Connecticut agreed to in order to obtain waivers from NCLB, including the misguided state educator evaluation mandates, will not disappear simply because the waivers do.
"While the new law is a move in the right direction, we understand that implementing positive change will not occur overnight. Connecticut policymakers have a historic opportunity to usher in a new era in public education to create greater opportunities for every student to succeed. As Connecticut transitions to the new ESSA law, the voice of teachers in the process will be crucial to doing what is best for the students in the classrooms," said Cohen.
"There is great potential to ensure that the focus in Connecticut classrooms is on student learning instead of student testing. Whether Connecticut reaches this potential will depend on the extent to which Governor Malloy and state legislators use the opportunity they are being granted by ESSA," said CEA Executive Director Mark Waxenberg.
John Bestor #
Instead of applauding the passage of the Every Student Succeeds Act, CEA leadership should be addressing the many problems that this woefully-inadequate legislation will impose on our students, parents, and teachers. It is hard to get behind legislation that continues to promote excessive testing and poorly-developed "standards" that are claimed to meet unproven, and undefined, expectations. Certainly, Education Commissioner Wentzell and SBOE Chair Allan Taylor cannot be trusted to lead the way to flexible new initiatives. This legislation will also maintain extensive give-always to the privatization advocates who lobbied tirelessly for this bill. As long as the CEA and its parent organization, the NEA, go along with these failed policies, the tradition of strong, teacher-led public schools will continue to wilt and die.December 9, 2015
While ESSA is imperfect legislation it does shift more power to states and provides significant opportunity for teachers to advocate for new state laws and guidelines. CEA is already taking advantage of this opportunity by developing new educator evaluation guidelines for PEAC to review: http://blogcea.org/2015/12/09/cea-to-introduce-new-teacher-evaluation-guidelines-for-peac-review/ We are also inviting members to join regional meetings on ESSA in March where you can weigh in on the changes you would like to see Connecticut implement regarding teacher evaluations and standardized test scores. Dates and locations TBA soon.December 10, 2015
Trackbacks & Pingbacks
- Identifying What's Wrong, What's Right About State Testing | BLOGCEA
- CEA to Introduce New Teacher Evaluation Guidelines for PEAC Review | BLOGCEA
Comments are closed.


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Popular mid-priced Canadian menswear retailer Moores has launched made-to-measure clothing in its stores, potentially competing with custom suit makers and pricier menswear retailers. It's a 'brilliant move' according to luxury retail expert Farla Efros, who notes that it could enhance Moores' customer loyalty at a time when competition heats up in the Canadian menswear market.
Moores has partnered with New York City-based Joseph Abboud to launch the new custom line, called Joseph Abboud Custom, which is now available at Moores locations nationwide…. Read the rest of the story through our friends @Retail – Insider

subset: commoncrawl


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The Paramount Chief of Dormaa Traditional Area in the Brong Ahafo Region says he did not endorse then President John Mahama despite singing his praises in the heat of the 2016 elections.
Oseadeeyo Agyeman Badu II said he only praised the former President for his stellar work in the area of infrastructure.
In a meeting with President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo last week, he said it is difficult to look a prominent person in the face and criticise him.
When Akua Donkor comes you cannot say anything against her…and when your younger brother who has left came I didn't say anything against him, Oseadeyo Agyeman Badu II said in Bono.
The Dormaa Paramount chief was heavily criticised when he said then President Mahama had achieved more than any President except Kwame Nkrumah.
In a video that went viral, Oseadeeyo Agyeman Badu II said he was prepared to abdicate his stool if he lost a debate over the president's achievements. He didn't mind if he had to become a serial caller to parrot the then president's achievements, he vowed.
But four months after Mr Mahama lost his bid to get re-elected; the Dormaa Paramount chief is now claiming that the media distorted his comments.
He said he did not reference the performance of the former President in the areas of corruption, galamsey and economic wellbeing of Ghanaians.
I spoke about his strength which I will do to everybody who comes before me, he said.
Oseadeeyo Agyeman Badu II said he will extol the good works of President Akufo-Addo if he fulfils his campaign promises.


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Five years ago a few Cape sailing teams took to the waters of Lewis Bay for the first Raise the Sail clinic, hosted by the Barnstable High School Sailing Booster Club.
Sailing clinic marks fifth season
Five years ago a few Cape sailing teams took to the waters of Lewis Bay for the first Raise the Sail clinic, hosted by the Barnstable High School Sailing Booster Club.
In two weeks, the clinic will mark its fifth anniversary, this time on the waters of Lake Wequaquet in Centerville, Barnstable's temporary home while the Hyannis Yacht Club is renovated.
In the years since the clinic first began, some aspects have changed, such as the number of teams involved – while some have remained solid, like the quality instruction offered to student sailors during the two-and-a-half day clinic.
During the 2011 Raise the Sail clinic season, sailors Tim Wadlow, Tim Fallon, Karen Renzulli, Jennifer Langille and David Fallon will help athletes from Barnstable, Dennis-Yarmouth, Chatham, Dartmouth, Deerfield Academy, Nauset and more learn skills integral for a successful season on the water.
Each instructor brings a wealth of experience to the clinic. Wadlow is a former Olympic sailor, while Tim Fallon is a two-time US team champion. Renzulli is former program director at Wianno Yacht Club and is also a world vanguard 15 champion, and Langille is a sports nutritionist with SailTrim who has competed in many Volvo races. Finally, David Fallon is the program director at HYC.
Barnstable sailing head coach Andrew Nugnes expressed gratitude regarding his team's temporary move to the Lake Wequaquet Yacht Club, which welcomed the team to its facility on the lake while the HYC completes renovation work.
According to Nugnes, the Wequaquet club is allowing use of the club for Raise the Sail at no cost.
"That's how they're going to give back to our cause," said Nugnes. "They're donating their space to us for the weekend."
During said weekend, April 1 to 3, Nugnes and his team will welcome more than 48 sailors from across the Cape and Islands, as well as other parts of Massachusetts, to the intensive, but fun, clinic.
Nugnes said that what separates the Raise the Sail event from other clinics is that it's the only sailing clinic to actually get kids on the water at this time of year.
Each day includes various chalk talks, with students putting what they learn into action on the water in practice sessions, followed by fleet and team races.
Nugnes also appreciates that the clinic unites sailors who otherwise spend the season in competition.
"On the Cape and Islands we have 12 teams," he said. "We've always tried to get them to a common place to learn from each other and not just compete against each other."
Nugnes said that the Raise the Sail clinic allows that to happen.
"We try to split up the teams into fleet racing and team racing as well," he said. "And we try to mix the kids up a bit so they sail with sailors from other teams."
This year the clinic will put a bit more emphasis on beginner strategies, and instruction for more advanced sailors.
Nugnes said that the level of instruction on and off the water is incomparable, especially given the experiences of each instructor.
"There is a fee to participate, but they kind of get that back twofold in what we give them in instruction," Nugnes said, adding that the sponsorship from local businesses is also significant.
While the student sailors enjoy a day of friendly competition and bonding over a common interest, their coaches also have the opportunity to get together as well, sharing success stories and helpful pointers.
"It's a learning experience for them, too, so it kind of benefits everybody," Nugnes said.
Nugnes doesn't think the change from harbor sailing to lake sailing will pose a problem for any of the teams.
"I don't think it's going to impact much, because the space provided is exactly what the HYC could give us as well," he said. "It's actually going to make the sailors better sailors. I think it's going to work out well."
The Raise the Sail clinic is slated for April 1-3 on Lake Wequaquet. For more information contact Andrew Nugnes at firstname.lastname@example.com.


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- Home
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Building Women - latest Issue
Volume 2006, Issue 1, December 2006
If you strike a woman, you strike a rockSource: Building Women 2006 (2006)More Less
Action undertaken by women who marched to the union buildings to protest against pass laws in August 1956, as well as the non-violent resistance to racism by the late Rosa Parks - a civil rights activist well known for refusing to give up her seat for a white man - gave power to heroes such as Martin Luther King and Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela. Bravery displayed by these strong women paved way for the democratic government we live in today.
Change at the right time. Women and the construction sector : newsSource: Building Women 2006 (2006)More Less
In many ways, change within the construction industry - propelled largely by BEE development and the Construction Charter - couldn't have come at a better time. At the recent Construction Industry Conference we once again heard economists speak favourably of the national economy and the construction industry in particular.
A world of opportunity : newsAuthor Nonhlanhla Mjoli-MncubeSource: Building Women 2006, pp 5 –7 (2006)More Less
Since 1994, women have become more visible in the construction sector, especially in housing construction. Despite the fact that women have been involved in home building for centuries, their emergence as wage earners and business owners in the sector has been promoted only since our democratic transition. In fact, most homes in rural areas and in the informal settlements are built and maintained by women.
Women for Housing : associations and endorsersSource: Building Women 2006 (2006)More Less
Women for Housing (WFH) is a Section 21 company that facilitates opportunities for women involved in the housing and construction sectors.
ProfilesSource: Building Women 2006, pp 9 –42 (2006)More Less
Profiles of women in construction : Nhlanhla Mjoli-Ncube, Elizabeth O'Leary, Dr Ingrid Verwey, Phumelele Siphayi, Thembi Matabela, Violet Mphafudi, Dr Thandi Ndlovu, Lettie Ndlovu, Refilwe Mosadi, Thembi Somerset, Kgomotso Choma, Mme Reshoketswe, Tshidi Raselomane, Mapule Phora, Kgomotso Mahlobo
Supporting female contractors : NURCHA : associations and endorsersSource: Building Women 2006 (2006)More Less
The National Urban Reconstruction and Housing Agency (Nurcha) was formed in 1995 with one overriding goal - to assist in arranging finance for housing for low-income families. Nurcha's goal has remained intact over the years while its range of partners and financial interventions have grown and broadened to meet each new challenge in its market sector. Our job at Nurcha is to support the national programme to house all South Africans in sustainable human settlements.
Promoting the development of local business : NAFCOC : associations and endorsersSource: Building Women 2006 (2006)More Less
As its vision, the National African Federated Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NAFCOC) aims to promote and facilitate the development of business in South Africa, thereby drawing the majority of South Africans into mainstream economic activity and the decision-making process.
Paying tribute : newsAuthor Ingrid VerweySource: Building Women 2006 (2006)More Less
It was a memorable occasion when the Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA) and South African Women in Construction (SAWiC) welcomed the honorable Minister Stella Sigcau at the DBSA for an early celebration of Women's Day on 4 August. We took a trip down memory lane, which traced the humble beginnings of women in construction as an interest group of 60 members, formed on 11 June 1997. We remembered 23 August 1999, when SAWiC was launched with a membership of about 100 members at the DBSA, with Minister Sigcau as the keynote speaker. Minister Sigcau inaugurated the first SAWiC board for their three year service period at the time. Six years later we were privileged to again have her inaugurate the third SAWiC board for their term of office, now with a membership in excess of 1 000 members.
Building strong partnerships : newsSource: Building Women 2006, pp 15 –17 (2006)More Less
Building Women interviewed Thembi Nwedamutswu, CEO of the Independent Development Trust (IDT) in order to establish the significance of the memorandum of agreement (MOA) between the IDT and South African Women in Construction (SAWiC), the key elements contained in the MOA and how she views the relationship between IDT and SAWiC.
DBSA as partner, investor and advisor : supportSource: Building Women 2006, pp 18 –19 (2006)More Less
"Without a vision, the people shall perish". It is due to visionary leadership that we have benefited from peace, stability and growth over the past ten years. Visionary leadership coupled with systematic and disciplined execution is necessary if we are to strengthen our political transformation with empowerment and social and economic development for all. - Mandla Gantsho, CEO and managing director, DBSA.
Register of contractors - a quick guide to registration : CIDB : associations and endorsersSource: Building Women 2006, pp 22 –25 (2006)More Less
Register of contractors - a quick guide to registration : CIDB
Expanded Public Works Programme : newsSource: Building Women 2006 (2006)More Less
One of the key initiatives of the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) is the contractor development learnership, which stipulates the conditions under which contractors are to undertake labour-intensive construction infrastructure projects for the municipality and other government departments.
Combating corruption & fronting : governmentSource: Building Women 2006, pp 32 –33 (2006)More Less
In her speech that highlighted the findings of a probe on the extent of fronting in the construction industry, the Minister of Public Works, Stella Sigcau, mentioned that it is clear that people have made a career out of defrauding the government and defeating the objectives of BEE. As this is a situation that the government will not tolerate, the Minister has vowed to "unmask the wolves in sheep's clothing".
Housing Indaba : governmentSource: Building Women 2006, pp 34 –35 (2006)More Less
The government and the Minister of Housing have invited South Africans to come forward with solutions to curb the urban population explosion. The situation is contributing to a very high demand for low-cost housing, which is putting heavy strain on state resources.
Mining in Africa : company newsSource: Building Women 2006, pp 38 –39 (2006)More Less
African Rainbow Minerals (ARM) Ltd is a niche-diversified, South African mining company. The company owns ferrous metals, nickel and platinum operations, holds a significant interest in gold through a 16.2% shareholding in Harmony Gold and has an attractive exploration portfolio in Zambia (gold and copper), the DRC (copper and cobalt) and Namibia (gold). ARM is listed on the JSE Limited and has a market capitalisation of approximately R7-million.
BEE skills venture : company newsSource: Building Women 2006 (2006)More Less
A local concrete products manufacturer launched its skills development programme with a workshop course in paving among a group of emergent male and female contractors in Limpopo Province. Concor Technicrete's training project is being run as part of a local business-backed BEE programme to draw previously disadvantaged communities into the nation's mainstream economy.
What is the NHBRC? : supportSource: Building Women 2006, pp 43 –44 (2006)More Less
The National Home Builders Registration Council (NHBRC) is a statutory body with the responsibility to provide protection in terms of the Housing Consumer Protection Measures Act (95 of 1998). It is mandated to provide protection for all new housing consumers against defined defects and to regulate the home building industry.
The Association of Women in Property : supportAuthor Willow VercueilSource: Building Women 2006 (2006)More Less
On 11 August the Minister of Public Works, Stella Sigcau, launched the Association of Women in Property (AWIP) at the Kyalami Castle. This initiative forms part of the broad-based black economic empowerment (BBEEE) transformation process being implemented within the South African property sector. Specific target areas that were mentioned by the Minister include the commercial property sector, including facilities management, property advisory services, property investments, property leasing, property valuation, asset management in property, property management, residential developments and property development.
Out and aboutSource: Building Women 2006, pp 47 –48 (2006)More Less
Gauteng MEC Women for Housing awards
Women's built with habitat
NAWIC 50th Annual Convention in USA, Texas


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Sep2009 16
On the 4th September, the Hospital Records crew gave fans, ravers and budding producers a chance to hear how London Elektricity, High Contrast and Logistics make their tracks.
Hosted by BBC Radio 1s Nerm it was 90mins of excellent hints, tips and questions from the audience. Here is a little round up, check it out!


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We can help. You can overcome drug addiction and have a better life than you ever thought possible!
There are numerous treatment options available for those looking to recover from drug addiction. Individuals who feel their drug addiction has affected their lifestyle such as their family, friends, or work will benefit greatly from inpatient treatment. This form of treatment provides the recovering drug addict with support 24-hours a day. Additionally, removing the individual from their former surroundings (in regards to drug using friends and the individual's personal drug using paraphernalia) helps them to adjust to living a drug-free lifestyle. The benefits of inpatient treatment also include the reduced likelihood of the individual using alcohol or drugs while in treatment as well as highly structured days.
Inpatient treatment can take place in a variety of locations. Many first think of hospitals or similar accommodations, however, this is not always the case. Inpatient treatment takes place in residential settings as well. In fact, the preferred treatment environment in a lot of inpatient situations would be one that was less restrictive than a hospital, but did have supervision and structure, such as residential inpatient treatment. These programs often offer supervised detoxification that may involve medication in a hospital setting or social detoxification (i.e. no medication) in a non-hospital setting.
Inpatient Short-Term
Short-term inpatient programs keep patients up to 30 days. Most of these programs focus on medical stabilization, abstinence, and lifestyle changes. Staff members are primarily medical professionals and trained counselors.
Short-Term Residential Programs provide intensive but relatively brief residential treatment based on a modified 12-step approach. Once primarily for alcohol abuse treatment, these programs expanded into drug abuse treatment in the 1980s. Reduced health care coverage for substance abuse treatment has resulted in a diminished number of these programs, and the average length of stay under managed care review is much shorter than in early programs, averaging 7-14 days.
Inpatient Long-Term / Residential
Long-term residential programs offer around-the-clock, drug-free treatment in a residential community of counselors and fellow recovering addicts. Patients generally stay in these programs several months or up to a year or more.
Long-Term residential programs provide care 24 hours per day, generally in non-clinical settings. The best-known residential treatment model is the therapeutic community (TC), but residential treatment may also employ other models, such as the Social Education Model.
We can help! You can overcome addiction and have a better life than you ever thought possible.
We have addiction treatment specialists available 24/7, ready to help you find the right treatment choice that meets your financial ability.addictionca.com


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- Fuel Efficiency : 26 MPG City 33 MPG Hwy
- Engine : 2.5L H-4 cyl CONTINUOUSLY VARIABLE AUTOMATIC ALL-WHEEL DRIVE
- Exterior Color : Magnetite Gray Interior Color : BLACK
- Stock # : LH563557
Highlighted Features
Lane departure
Distance pacing cruise control
Leather upholstery
Automatic temperature control
Emergency communication system
Power moonroof
Wireless phone connectivity
Exterior parking camera rear
POPULAR PACKAGE #3,Sun/Moonroof,Leather Seats,AUTO-DIMMING MIRROR W/COMPASS & HOMELINK,AUTO-DIMMING EXTERIOR MIRROR W/APPROACH LIGHTING,ALL-WEATHER FLOOR LINERS,REAR BUMPER COVER,REAR SEATBACK PROTECTOR,Lane Keeping Assist,Keyless Start,Bluetooth Connection,CARGO NET,Rear Spoiler,DOME LIGHT LED UPGRADE,All Wheel Drive,BASE MODEL,BLACK; PERFORATED LEATHER-TRIMMED UPHOLSTERY,MAGNETITE GRAY METALLIC
- Contact Me
- Calculate My Payment
Request More Info
- Call: (509) 850-9358
Subaru Forester
Detailed Specifications
Convenience Features
- Tilt steering wheel
- Air conditioning
- Garage door transmitter: HomeLink
- Front beverage holders
- Speed control
- Illuminated entry
- Telescoping steering wheel
- Distance pacing cruise control: EyeSight Adaptive Cruise Control
- Rear beverage holders
- Trunk/hatch auto-latch
- Power windows
- Passenger door bin
- Power moonroof: Panoramic
- 1-touch down
- Driver vanity mirror
- Auto-dimming rearview mirror
- Remote engine start: smart device only
- Front dual zone A/C
- Rear door bins
- Proximity keyless entry: doors and push button start
- Automatic temperature control
- Overhead console
- Remote keyless entry
- Passenger vanity mirror
- Driver door bin
- Emergency communication system: STARLINK Safety and Security
- 1-touch up
Off-Road Capability
- Ground clearance (min): 221mm (8.7")
Entertainment Features
- Primary LCD size: 8.0"
- Smart device integration: STARLINK/Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
- Radio data system
- Wireless phone connectivity: Bluetooth
- AM/FM radio: SiriusXM
- 1st row LCD monitors: 2
- Satellite radio trial duration with new vehicle purchase (months): 3
- Speakers: 6
- Steering wheel mounted audio controls
- CD-MP3 decoder
- CD player
Seats and Trim
- Leather shift knob
- Heated front seats
- Max seating capacity: 5
- Rear seats: bench
- Front seats: bucket
- Front center armrest
- Power 2-way driver lumbar support
- Power driver seat
- Leather upholstery
- Rear seats Folding position: fold forward seatback
- Rear seat center armrest
- Split folding rear seat
- Basic warranty: 36 months/36,000miles
- Roadside assistance coverage: 36 months/36,000miles
- Powertrain warranty: 60 months/60,000miles
- Corrosion perforation warranty: 60 months/ unlimited distance
Specs and Dimensions
- Compression ratio: 12.00 to 1
- Engine horsepower: 182hp @ 5,800RPM
- Front headroom: 1,021mm (40.2")
- Rear legroom: 1,001mm (39.4")
- Turning radius: 5.4m (17.7')
- Passenger volume: 3,053L (107.8 cu.ft.)
- Exterior height: 1,730mm (68.1")
- Curb weight: 1,607kg (3,542lbs)
- Front shoulder room: 1,478mm (58.2")
- Wheelbase: 2,670mm (105.1")
- Exterior body width: 1,816mm (71.5")
- Towing capacity: 680kg (1,500lbs)
- Engine bore x stroke: 94.0mm x 90.0mm (3.70" x 3.54")
- Rear hiproom: 1,361mm (53.6")
- Rear headroom: 958mm (37.7")
- Interior maximum cargo volume: 2,008 L (71 cu.ft.)
- Front legroom: 1,100mm (43.3")
- Exterior length: 4,625mm (182.1")
- Engine displacement: 2.5 L
- Engine torque: 176 lb.-ft. @ 4,400RPM
- Rear shoulder room: 1,453mm (57.2")
- Interior cargo volume: 818 L (29 cu.ft.)
- GVWR: 2,219kg (4,891lbs)
- Front hiproom: 1,374mm (54.1")
Body Exterior
- Spoiler
- Tailpipe finisher: polished
- Door mirrors: body-color
- Auto-dimming door mirrors
- Turn signal indicator mirrors
- Rear cargo: power liftgate
- Power door mirrors
- Trailer sway control
- Bumpers: body-color
- Roof rack: rails only
- Heated door mirrors
- Power liftgate
- Fuel economy city: 26mpg
- Mode select transmission
- Horsepower: 182hp @ 5,800RPM
- Fuel economy highway: 33mpg
- Transmission: continuously variable automatic
- Variable valve control
- Engine liters: 2.5
- Fuel tank capacity: 16.6gal.
- Fuel economy combined: 29mpg
- Cylinder configuration: H-4
- Engine location: front
- Recommended fuel: Regular Unleaded
- Torque: 176 lb.-ft. @ 4,400RPM
- Drive type: all-wheel
- Number of valves: 16
- Limited slip differential: brake actuated - Active Torque Vectoring
Safety and Security
- Traction control
- Knee airbag
- Brake assist
- Electronic stability
- Tracker system: STARLINK Safety and Security
- Adjustable head restraints: driver and passenger w/tilt
- Occupant sensing airbag
- Dual front impact airbags
- ABS brakes
- Perimeter/approach lights
- Security system
- Dual front side impact airbags
- 4 wheel disc brakes
- Panic alarm
- Overhead airbag
- Ignition disable
- Front tires: 225/55HR18.0
- Rear tires: 225/55HR18.0
- Wheel size: 18"
- Speed-sensing steering
- Four wheel independent suspension
- Rear anti-roll bar
- Front anti-roll bar
- Power steering
- Alloy wheels
Lighting, Visibility and Instrumentation
- Forward collision: EyeSight Pre-Collision Braking mitigation
- Tachometer
- Fully automatic headlights
- Lane departure: EyeSight Lane Keep Assist active
- Trip computer
- Rear window wiper
- Display: digital/analog
- Auto high-beam headlights
- Variably intermittent wipers
- Rear window defroster
- Low tire pressure warning
- Blind spot: warning
- Outside temperature display
- Exterior parking camera rear
- Front fog lights
- Front reading lights
- Compass
- Rear collision: warning
New Arrivals We Think You'll Love
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text:
Amir Nakhdjevani graduated from St George's Hospital Medical School and undertook his plastic surgery training in a number of prestigious hospitals in England and overseas: St Georges Hospital, Royal Free Hospital and Guys & St Thomas Hospital in London, Queen Victoria Hospital in Sussex, Wexham Park Hospital, East Anglia plus the Lister Hospital & Addenbrooke's Hospital and Broomfield Hospital. EDA Microsurgery Hospital in Taiwan and the Talizi Clinic in Georgia.
As part of his training he undertook fellowships at The London Clinic, Harley Street and McIndoe Surgical Centre, East Grinstead. After passing his Plastic Surgery fellowship exam he underwent advanced training in hair restoration surgery at the internationally renowned Talizi Clinic, Georgia.
Amir is especially known for his facelifts performed under a local anaesthetic, whereby patients can be treated and return home on the same day. However, he undertakes all aspects of cosmetic surgery including:
Facial Surgery
- Brow Lift / Endobrow
- Eyelid surgery (blepharaplasty)
- Nose reshaping (rhinoplasty)
- Ear pinning and reshaping (pinnaplasty)
- Face lifts offered under a local and general anaesthetic
- Neck lifts
- Eyebrow & eyelash transplants
- Hair transplants
Breast Surgery
- Breast enlargement (augmentation)
- Breast reduction
- Breast uplift (mastopexy)
- Breast asymmetry
Body Contouring
- Liposuction
- Tummy tuck (abdominoplasty)
- Thigh lift
- Removal of excess skin following extreme weight loss
Amir can also perform non-surgical treatments such as Dermal fillers and injectables.
Throughout his plastic surgery training, Amir has dedicated his time to learn advanced techniques in plastic and cosmetic surgery and believes that plastic, reconstructive and aesthetic procedures have to be tailored to an individuals needs to meet their expectations.
Amir has continued to publish in peer review journals throughout his medical career as well as having a textbook to his name. He has presented extensively at national and international plastic surgery meetings.
Amir is married with three children.


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40% off!
Page 1 of 1
The workforce so the CEO can by another jet
12 Replies - 2485 Views - Last Post: 11 October 2008 - 02:30 PM
40% off!
Posted 10 October 2008 - 11:12 AM
At the same time, the executives have taken a 20% pay cut. Which at first sounds noble, but when you consider that the company has lost money globally for the last 4 years under the rule of these chumps and that only a year and a half ago after the last round of layoffs they gave themselves huge stock bonuses, it kind of takes the shine off of them. Coupled with that there are so many executives and VPs that you can't throw a rock without hitting one.
I know that this is a necesary move at this point, and am actually a bit surprized it has not happened sooner, but still, after seeing how bloated the management system is I can't help but feel a little chapped...
Replies To: 40% off!
Re: 40% off!
Posted 10 October 2008 - 12:36 PM
Re: 40% off!
Posted 10 October 2008 - 02:25 PM
Re: 40% off!
Posted 10 October 2008 - 03:23 PM
Re: 40% off!
Posted 10 October 2008 - 04:21 PM
Re: 40% off!
Posted 10 October 2008 - 04:55 PM
My thinking though, is that, as a developer (or most professions), my skills are useful to many different companies. Unless I AM upper management and therefore affect policy, then being in a company that is being driven to the ground is only my problem as long as I want it to be. There is still a large demand for skilled developers and engineers. If the execs are trying to make you and others take the damages for their bad decisions.. screw them, leave and find a better company.
I didn't read your political posts, and honestly, I don't care what you posted in another thread, because this one has nothing to do with it. Good to see there are members eager to drag this thread into whatever political debate was going on before though.
Re: 40% off!
Posted 10 October 2008 - 05:24 PM
Reverand Dave, on 10 Oct, 2008 - 04:21 PM, said:
Let me make it crystal for you since you can't seem to see it.
In this thread you say you think the management is bloated and there are way too many executives (and therefore oversights and people getting paid too much money). In other threads you have said that you support Obama and left wing tendencies. This includes more government involvement in day to day activities. It is essentially more executives and management. Since you have expressed both support and disdain for this concept, it is irony. The government itself may not have grown, but its power has. This will only increase under a democratic executive and thus why I brought it up. Jim Cramer mentioned in an interview recently that as much as you all would like to, you cannot pin the entire economic crisis on the Bush administration. Lending money to people who cannot pay it back is bad. Lending more money then you have is bad. The former was advocated by Democrats who wanted everyone and their mother to get a loan because it was the equality thing to do. I'm really tired of the left saying economic situations in America are not fair. Guess what? Life is not fair.
Anyone worth their salt (read: pay) will not have trouble finding work if the company goes under.
Re: 40% off!
Posted 10 October 2008 - 06:44 PM
In addition to KYA's post - you claim to want less management (work), more government (Obama). How does that make sense. Why do I need to wake up when Obama is for stricter gun laws and now my new place of employment is a Gun Dealership - actually one of the largest Winchester dealers in Ohio. I do not care what your stance is on the 2nd, I like what I do right now - and I am a supporter of the 2nd, NRA, NWTF and a few others to say the least.
Both Obama and McCain are for the RIAA - another thing which I am against but just on these two issues alone McCain leads 1-0. I do not like big government, I was a Marine during the Clinton administration and let me tell you he made some pretty dumbass decisions.
Your boy Clinton also initiated and is responsible for the DMCA. The whole left wing is attacking every interest I have in regards to technology and control.
Key word CONTROL - the Left wants control.
So what did Clinton do besides trade Nuclear secrets with N. Korea and let Obama slip through his fingers? Please elaborate, because last time the Democrats controlled the White House - he left a clusterfuck for our next president. You can bash Bush all you want, he is my President and I voted for him and I along with a whole lot of others will be voting for McCain.
Canada is looking for some new residents though
Go ahead and say your peace, but I decided not to argue about politics anymore, it is pointless, and I will not change my mindset. I was a liberal once too. I was 17, young and dumb and I regret a lot of things I did back then. Then I became educated.
edit - Last I checked the Congress had a lower approval rating than Bush. What does that say about the Democratic party?
This post has been edited by Nykc: 10 October 2008 - 06:47 PM
Re: 40% off!
Posted 11 October 2008 - 09:20 AM
Nykc, on 10 Oct, 2008 - 06:44 PM, said:
I didn't start this as a political or flame thread. I just want to make this crystal clear. I don't know you guys, and I don't have anything against you personally as you seem to have against me. I respect you guys for your programming knowledge. Your posts are insightful and helpful in your fields of expertise.
That being said, allow me to retort.
I am very unlikely to lose my job as a result of this. I have built a very stong reputation in my dept as an expert in several fields due to my hard work and determination. So when this is all said and done, it is unlikely that I will have to post on here that "I was" anything. I never said I wanted less work. I started programming in my spare time at work to fill the void because I wanted more work, and if you equivocate management with work, then I'm sorry for you.
I didn't bring bush or politics into this.
I never said that I wanted more government. I would like more effective government, but we don't need any expansion for that. The fact that you guys believe that republican means less government is a bit sad. All politicians are in favor of government expansion no matter what party they belong to, some are just more honest about it than others.
Bush has expanded the government more than any other president in history. So apparently left = big government is a bit silly to say at this point in the game.
At the same time that my company has been claiming to be "streamlining" the management structure they have appointed more executives and VP's. At last count there are something like 30 VP's some of which report to other VP's. There have been a series of gimmies to any and all of the friends of the board. A few years back, Forbes reported that our CEO was one of the top ten worst CEOs in the nation. The local paper reported on it. As a result, the company store stopped carrying the local paper and the once available internet access to that site was blocked. The only member of the board to speak out against the CEO, Chairman, and President (all the same guy) was mysteriously voted off the board. I see very direct similarities between this and the bush administration.
Nykc, on 10 Oct, 2008 - 06:44 PM, said:
I never said I was in favor of gun regulation. That being said, I understand why we have gun laws. Gun laws are to protect society from crime, not to specifically impinge on you job. Whether they are successful or not is a totally different story. The second amendment was created to guarentee the publics right to overthrow an oppressive government, a right that was obviated with the invention of the tank. I live in a state where a majority of the population hunts. People aren't going to stop buying guns even if stricter gun laws do get passed.
Nykc, on 10 Oct, 2008 - 06:44 PM, said:
RIAA = bad, unequivocably end of story. It's a universal truth.
If you don't like big government, how do you feel about the Dept of homeland security? What about the expansion of the Vice Presidential powers? Exactly what has bush done to contract government? Fire people that don't agree with his administration and replace them with plants? Oh i guess that the recent expansion of the treasury secretaries powers don't fall into that category since it happened on a republicans watch.
Nykc, on 10 Oct, 2008 - 06:44 PM, said:
Key word CONTROL - the Left wants control.
The DMCA was voted upon and passed by the republican controlled congress of the time. I guess you can really thank Newt for that. The republican controlled congress of the time also passed huge expansions of copyright laws in general that are not only hurting software developers, but other artists as well. Perhaps instead of complaining about the DMCA you should try and develop something that is protected by it. I bet it would change your mind about it.
ALL POLITICIANS WANT CONTROL. That is why they went into politics. If people didn't want control over other people we wouldn't have a government. The right wants control too. The questions is, do you want them in your bedroom, or your pocket book? Take my money, but don't tell me I can't have a BJ because the bible says it's wrong.
Nykc, on 10 Oct, 2008 - 06:44 PM, said:
Under Clinton we had:
1. A government that operated with a budget on a surplus
2. Good standing internationally and a leader that wasn't viewed by the world as a high functioning moron.
3. An actual balance of power that allowed government to be effective.
4. The largest increase in the GNP of our country in recorded history.
Also, the only war that Clinton got us into, we won. While the CIA was investigating Osama Bin Laden, Bush was in afghanistan negotiating with the Taliban leaders for a natural gas pipeline. You can blame the ineptitude and blatant partisanism of this administration for a lot of the world hating us. We had good relations with Iran and N. Korea until the whole "Axis of Evil". Iran in general has a very west friendly populace, but our "leader" insulting them allowed a very anti-american leader to be elected. Blaming the failures of the Bush administration on the Clinton administration is idiotic at best. Kind of like how Bush brought "Honor and Dignity" back to the office of the president.
The simple fact is that the majority of americans did not vote for bush. The majority of the electoral college did. Go ahead and vote for McCain, it's your right to do so. I don't think the majority of americans will be with you though.
Nykc, on 10 Oct, 2008 - 06:44 PM, said:
Go ahead and say your peace, but I decided not to argue about politics anymore, it is pointless, and I will not change my mindset. I was a liberal once too. I was 17, young and dumb and I regret a lot of things I did back then. Then I became educated.
Canada is not in fact looking for new residents, but should McCain win, they will get a lot more. It's a sad state of affairs when the presidential election is enough to make people consider moving to another country. What does that tell you about the last 7 years? Was there suddenly going to be a huge influx of refugees fleeing to canada if Gore or Kerry were to be elected? Nope. But I love that whole "Ifn' you don' like merica move to russia" attitude it's very american and tolerant.
I'm not as much of a liberal as I am sick of the corruption of this administration. I don't see McCain as anything new. At one point he may have offered something new, but he's been too broken down by this administration as well. Also, why is it that if someone doesn't support bush or mccain they are automatically a liberal?
If you're so educated then allow me to say my PIECE and we'll be done. You can villify me all you want for not believing the same way as you, but don't assume for one second that 1. you are smarter than I am, or 2. more educated than I am. You don't know me. I am certainly not as young as you likely believe me to be. I have held a job at my company for over 10 years. Just because someone has a degree doesn't make them educated or intelligent. Some of the most ignorant and unintelligent people I have ever met held degrees. It doesn't take a brain to get a degree, just a willingness to do the work.
Nykc, on 10 Oct, 2008 - 06:44 PM, said:
Did you vote for Ted Stevens, Larry Craig, Nancy Pelosi, Bill Sali, Mike Crapo, Mike Simpson, Harry Reid, John McCain, or Barack Obama for their positions in congress? No? Neither did I, but despite the fact that several of the people I have mentioned are from my state I didn't vote for a single one of them. It's easy for me to say congress if full of jerkoffs, because I didn't vote for them. It's like that with the majority of americans.
The republican controlled congress had an even lower approval rating which is why many incumbent republicans lost their seats in the last round and likely this round of elections.
Now, can we stop this?
Re: 40% off!
Posted 11 October 2008 - 11:34 AM
Maybe you think that the rev is being hypocritical. Maybe you disagree with his views. But I really don't think hijacking his post and ganging up on him was the best way to express that. But he's obviously nicer than I am. If it were my thread you were hijacking I'd have told you both to p*ss off from the start.
Re: 40% off!
Posted 11 October 2008 - 12:38 PM
Then I peek back in to find this weird, sad, partisan tag team thing dripping agenda.
Good luck with the job thing, Dave. We may all be in for a more turbulent ride than we expect.
Re: 40% off!
Posted 11 October 2008 - 01:05 PM
Re: 40% off!
Posted 11 October 2008 - 02:30 PM


text:
In our last two installments on designing for the non-verbal in UX Research, we suggested you keep your eyes open for non-verbal cues in your existing research methods and then add prompts for them as integral pieces to your future processes. However, interpreting these cues may prove challenging at first, if you don't know what you're looking for or how to encourage such expressivity from a user.
This is where acting, dance, and improv training come in handy. The study of human behavior is wide, and we suggest incorporating physicality and expressivity to your already deep knowledge base of behavior.
- Take an acting class, dance class, or improv class.
- Read literature and popular articles about the physical expression.
- Challenge yourself to take note of other's behavior in a variety of settings.
You will begin to notice and interpret gestures, expressions, and behavior in new ways. Just as a new arts enthusiast must educate him or herself before fully appreciating a painting – you will need to train your eye and intuition on physical expression.
Of course, make sure to align your team on these ways of interpreting user expression and non-verbal cues. What is most valuable to the project? Does everyone align on what to look for and how to record it? These are crucial questions to create a cohesive and collaborative approach to the redesigned research process.
Here are a few resources to get you started:
Impro: Improvisation and the Theatre by Keith Johnstone
The Creative Habit: Learn It and Use It for Life by Twyla Tharp
Steal Like An Artist: 10 Things Nobody Told You About Being Creative by Austin Kleon


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In a earnings report for their fourth quarter of fiscal year 2015, publisher Electronic Arts revealed that the still rather secretive Mirror's Edge 2 will be out in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2016. In other words: within the first three months of next year. The game, which reboots the franchise, will focus on an origin story for protagonist Faith. It's also been suggested that the game will forgo traditional levels for a more open-world approach.
With a release date falling within the first three months of 2016, you can bet your left butt-cheek that there'll be a sizable amount of Mirror Edge 2 content revealed at E3 next month.
Source: EA (PDF)


text: The difference in today's mobile devices and those that came years before used to be staggering, but in recent years, the differences in power and functionality have started to wane. Manufacturers have begun to roll out devices with only minor changes in power, but with exorbitant increases in cost. For the first time, in 4Q of 2017, the smartphone saw stagnation, and we'll try to get to the root of it.


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Fiat might be throwing Chrysler a lifeline.
Fiat SpA and Chrysler LLC on Tuesday confirmed the Italian auto maker will take at least a 35% stake in Chrysler as part of a deal to share technology and bring small cars developed by Fiat to the U.S.
The move is an attempt to revive two of the world's storied auto makers and is likely to eventually give Fiat control of Chrysler's operations, people familiar with the matter said. Under terms of the deal, Fiat has the option of increasing that to as much as 55%, these people said.
Fiat, the stronger of the two car makers, wouldn't immediately put cash into Chrysler. Instead, it would obtain its stake mainly in exchange for covering the cost of retooling a Chrysler plant to produce one or more Fiat models to be sold in the U.S., these people said. Fiat would also provide engine and transmission technology to help Chrysler introduce new, fuel-efficient small cars.
The deal is the latest maneuver by Fiat's chief, Sergio Marchionne, who has pulled the Italian company back from the brink collapse since taking over in 2004.
This might be a great combination. We'll see how it plays out.


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Gatwick Drone Disruption
Following the flight delays and flight suspensions caused by sightings of Drones in and around the Gatwick airfield on Wednesday 19th and Thursday 20th December 2018 that have affected passengers, we would like to clarify what cover is available to our policyholders.
It has been advised that if you are due to fly today, do not travel to the airport without checking the status of your flight with your airline first.
Departure delay
You can claim for departure delay providing the duration is over a specified number of hours (please check your policy wording) from you checking in, and the delay is not due to the diversion of the aircraft after it has departed.
If the delay you have suffered has exceeded a specified number of hours in duration after you have checked in (please check your policy wording), and provided you are unable to obtain a refund from any other source, you can submit a claim for cancellation.
For both cancellation and departure delay you must not have been offered any compensation, alternative transport that departs within a specified number of hours (please check your policy wording) or accommodation. To find out more, please contact the claims team, details of which you can find in your policy wording.
In the event that you have specific questions not answered by the above, please feel free to contact us.


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The Jerusalem Fund has built up an extensive film library and holds a film series every summer. The films chronicle the experiences of Palestinians within the Occupied Territories, Israel, and the Middle East. They survey a variety of issues, including historical circumstances, political exigencies, and Palestinian society and culture. Films can be loaned in accordance with the Fund's criteria and its agreements with individual production companies. For more information contact firstname.lastname@example.com
Selected films include:
CROSSING KALANDIA / 2002 / 54 min [Palestine]
A year in the life of Palestinians in less than an hour. This film defines people's ability to go on in the midst of siege, humiliation and the horrors of war. Director Sobhi al Zobeidi, living in Ramallah with his wife and little girl, focuses on "the power of life, not on the power of those who seek to destroy it."
DIVINE INTERVENTION/ 2002 / 89 min. [Palestine]
In this rare and satirical glimpse into the Arab psyche, filmmaker Elia Suleiman plays himself as a director burdened with a stalled screenplay, a sick father whose house is being gutted by tax collectors, and an unrequited love affair with a beautiful Palestinian woman who lives in the occupied city of Ramallah. Their love affair, which serves as a quiet metaphor for the larger struggle for Palestinian independence, takes place in the parking lot of an Israeli checkpoint between Ramallah and Jerusalem. As they gaze in silent amazement, their world unfolds in front of them in a series of absurdist vignettes that speak to the sorrow and lunacy of the conflict and the effects it has on all sides.
EDWARD SAID /1992 / 40 min. [USA]
Noted scholar the late Edward Said discusses his postcolonial theory and how it applies to modern culture, from politics to literature. He discusses Palestine as a politically expedient construct of Europe; argues the right of Palestine to exist as an independent, self-governing nation; and traces the origins of European attitudes toward the Arab world through the literature of E.M. Forster, T.S. Eliot, Joseph Conrad, and Chinua Achebe.
FORD TRANSIT /2002 /80 min. [Palestine]
This film follows cab driver Rajai through Ramallah and East Jerusalem. The director says "the Ford Transit is a metaphor for the theater of the Palestinians, a people without a homeland." The movie examines the lives of van passengers, including politicians, day laborers, children and fellow filmmakers, as they navigate the checkpoints of the West Bank. The director won the 2003 Human Rights Watch Nestor Almendros Prize for courage in filmmaking.
GAZA STRIP / 2002 / 87 min. [USA]
This film follows a range of characters and events in different cities and towns inside the Gaza Strip from February to March 2001. Gaza Strip aspires to the most basic aim of documentary film: to fix reality in an unblinking, thought-provoking way, and to create a document of time and place that would otherwise never be recorded.
THE OCCUPIED / 2003 / 99 min. [Denmark]
The Occupied portrays a year in the life of five Palestinians, weaving their lives into a documentary on the history of the Palestinians since 1948, and especially since the occupation of 1967. Jorgen Flindt Pedersen's film is more about emotional than physical occupation; the demons that the occupation let loose which threaten to take away a person's humanity; where the executioner and the victim constantly take each other's role.
PEACE, PROPAGANDA AND THE PROMISED LAND / 2004/ 80 min. [USA]
This pivotal video exposes how the foreign policy interests of American political elites-working in combination with Israeli public relations strategies, exercise a powerful influence over news reporting about the Middle East conflict. American and British TV news clips are combined with observations of journalists, analysts, and political activists.
RANA'S WEDDING /2002 / 90 min. [Palestine]
Rana wakes up one morning to an ultimatum delivered by her father: she must either choose a husband from a pre-selected list of eligible men, or she must accompany her father abroad. Wanting to marry the man of her own choice, she has only ten hours to find her boyfriend in occupied Jerusalem. Rana sneaks out of her father's house at daybreak to find Khalil, her forbidden love. Facing barriers and occupation which have become an everyday reality, Rana overcomes her fears and doubts, deciding not to let anyone control her life. Shot entirely on location in East Jerusalem and Ramallah.


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Available ebook formats: epub mobi pdf rtf lrf pdb txt html
Olea Nel was born in Cape Town, South Africa. After completing her training as a teacher in Andrew Murray's heartland of Wellington, she relocated to Australia to further her studies. Besides attaining a Ph.D. in Linguistics, she also has qualifications in Information Studies and Theology. She has taught at several tertiary institutions in Australia.
As an active Christian and a pastor's wife, she is often called upon to speak at women's groups.
Being retired from her secular position as a senior librarian at the National Library of Australia, she is now able to pursue her passion for research, especially within the fields of church history and biography. Her aim is to serve God by sharing her findings with other Christians. She is presently writing the second novel in her trilogy on the life of Andrew Murray. It will be titled Andrew Murray Destined to Win.


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Pizza Island is a cartoonists' studio in Greenpoint, Brooklyn consisting of:
Kate Beaton is best known for her comic Hark! A Vagrant. She has also had comics and illustrations in Harper's, the New Yorker, the Walrus, and the National Post. Her jokes are mostly about history but sometimes they are about other junk. She comes from Canada and has been described as "Canadian" because of it.
Domitille Collardey is a cartoonist from Paris, France, who recently moved to Greenpoint. You can usually find her self-published mini "What Had Happened Was…" at Desert Island in Brooklyn. She is currently working on an adaptation of the novel "The Suicide Shop" by Jean Teulé for French publisher Delcourt. See more of her work at domitille-collardey.com
Sarah Glidden's first full-length comic book, How to Understand Israel in 60 Days or Less, was published by Vertigo in November 2010. She is now at work on her second non-fiction comic book, tentatively titled Stumbling Towards Damascus, which is about journalists reporting on Iraqi refugees in Syria (among other things). Her work has also appeared in Syncopated: An Anthology of Non-Fiction Picto-Essays and I Saw You: Comics Inspired by Real Life Missed Connections. She lives in Greenpoint and has a website at smallnoises.com but no cats.
Meredith Gran is a cartoonist and animator who is currently drawing the webcomic Octopus Pie (http://www.octopuspie.com). She lives in Brooklyn, NY.
Lisa Hanawalt is from the SF Bay Area and does illustrations + funnies for publications like McSweeney's, Vice Magazine, and Chronicle Books. She's best known for her Ignatz Award-winning comic, I Want You. She lives in Greenpoint with a dog and a man. More:www.lisahanawalt.com
Julia Wertz is an autobiographical cartoonist from the San Francisco bay area. She lives in Greenpoint with a cat, Jack, who's a total asshole. Julia is creator of unfortunately titled comic books the Fart Party Vol 1 & Vol 2 and Drinking at the Movies. For new comics weekly, visit juliawertz.com. She can be reached at juliajwertz(at)gmail(dot)com


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Off to the races!
- Campus, Carousel, Election 2016, Local, National, News and Politics, Politics, The Yard, The Yard 2
- One response
From magazine rankings to movies, most portrayals of Charleston seek to capture the city's secluded gardens, flavorful cuisine and charming architecture. But what happens when the gracious, old soul of the South collides with the muddy fury of modern politics? Quite a lot actually. Dr. Amanda Ruth-McSwain spearheads the College's Bully Pulpit Series, a program…


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The Pikes Peak Area Council of Governments will host a Fort Carson Community Partnership Forum.
The forum will provide an update on Fort Carson activities – including information on troop deployments – and the region's response to Fort Carson growth. The community forum will be from 3 to 6 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 26, at the Antlers Hilton Hotel, 4 South Cascade Ave.
Check-in 2:00 – 3 p.m.- Summit Ballroom Foyer
Main Presentation 3 p.m. – 3:45 p.m.- Summit III
Major General David G. Perkins is scheduled to provide an update on Fort Carson activities.
The Pikes Peak Area Council of Governments will provide information on the region's response to Fort Carson growth and deployments.
Panel Discussion 3:45 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.- Summit III
A question-and-answer session with Fort Carson and local community leaders. Audience members will have the opportunity to ask questions.
Adam Atchison, news anchor, NewsFirst 5
Maj. Gen. David G. Perkins and/or Brig. Gen. James F. Pasquarette, deputy commanding general, Fort Carson
Col. Robert F. McLaughlin, garrison commander, Fort Carson
Robert F. MacDonald, executive director, Pikes Peak Area Council of Governments
Kate Hatten, military impact planning program manager, Pikes Peak Area Council of Governments
Dave Csintyan, CEO, Greater Colorado Springs Chamber of Commerce
Open House 5 – 6 p.m. – Summit I and II
To pre-register, call 719-471-7080 ext.140 or e-mail PPACG at firstname.lastname@example.com.


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In preparing the financial aid award, CSB/SJU consider students for all federal, state and institutional programs for which they may be eligible. If a family determines that more funds are needed, they may pursue additional financing through private alternative loan programs such as the ones listed on our loan site.
If a change in the family's financial circumstances occurs after the student has received the initial financial aid award, the student or parent may contact the Financial Aid Office to request a review of the financial aid award. Examples of circumstances that may change a student's initial financial aid would be a parent losing a job or changing jobs which results in a lower family income; unexpected medical expenses, or divorce or separation of the parents.
Satisfactory Academic Progress Requirements for Financial Aid Eligibility
Satisfactory Academic Progress
The Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended, requires that all federal aid recipients make satisfactory academic progress towards degree completion. Satisfactory Academic Progress is also required of recipients of state and institutional funds. These standards apply to a student's entire degree program including terms in which financial aid is not received.
Satisfactory Academic Progress will be measured by grade point average (qualitatively) and by the percentage of credits earned in relation to those attempted (quantitatively), also referred to as "Pace".
Cumulative grade point average
Because the transition to university learning can be challenging, first year students are allowed to build their grade point average to a 2.0 as they accumulate credits. A student is considered to be making satisfactory academic progress by earning a grade point average at or above the ranges outlined below. A student's grade point average will include those grades associated with CSB/SJU credits only; grades earned at other institutions are not included. In the event that a student repeats a course, both grades will appear on the transcript, but only the higher grade will be used in computing the student's grade point average.
1st Semester
1.80 gpa
All Remaining Semesters
2.0 gpa
Adequate progress towards degree completion is measured by a ratio of cumulative credit hours earned in relation to credit hours attempted. Students must complete 67% of the hours attempted to be making satisfactory academic progress. Incompletes, repeated courses and withdrawal from courses (where a student has received a grade of "W") are not counted as completed credits in the calculation. ESL courses taken for credit are acceptable toward degree completion. Upon admission, transfer students are assumed to be making satisfactory academic progress. Courses successfully completed at another institution that fulfill degree requirements at CSB/SJU will be included in the pace calculation.
Review Process
The Satisfactory Academic Progress Committee will review students' progress at the end of fall and spring semesters, and summer term. The Director of Financial Aid notifies via email those students whose academic record falls short of the standards as detailed above. If a student is placed on warning, financial aid eligibility will continue for that warning period.
A student who fails to achieve good academic standing after a warning period will be suspended from financial aid eligibility unless an appeal is submitted and approved. Appeals may be granted in cases of extenuating circumstances (eg... illness, family emergencies, etc) that may affect a student's ability to achieve SAP.
Following a successful appeal, a student may be placed on probation for the next semester, or an academic plan, which may encompass more than one semester. If placed on probation, the student must achieve good academic standing following the probationary semester. A student placed on an academic plan may continue to receive financial assistance as long as the terms of the plan are being met. A student without a successful appeal will be suspended.
Appeal Process
All appeals should be in writing and sent to Director of Financial Aid at CSB for CSB students, or the Director of Financial Aid at SJU for SJU students. Students on suspension will be given a time frame to complete the appeal. The written appeal must include and document extenuating circumstances that prevented the student from meeting SAP, what has changed in their situation, and specific steps that will be taken to ensure future success. Before a decision is made, the student's progress -along with details in the appeals-will be reviewed by the SAP Committee to determine if and how the student can regain good academic standing.
Re-establishing SAP
Other than in situations when an appeal is granted, a student who has lost eligibility for federal or state aid can only regain eligibility by earning credits/grades that brings them back to Satisfactory Academic Progress. Neither paying for classes nor sitting out any length of time affects a student's academic standing so neither is sufficient to re-establish eligibility. However, if a previously suspended student applies for readmission to CSB/SJU (which would include a new reason for an appeal) after an academic suspension, that student may be allowed to return, with the benefit of financial assistance, if an academic plan is created to assist the student in attaining satisfactory progress. The student would continue to be eligible for financial assistance as long as the plan specifics are being met.
Maximum Timeframe for Financial Assistance
Undergraduate students will be allowed to attempt up to 186 total credit hours or 6 years to complete a degree. This represents 150% of the normal timeframe (4 years) to complete a degree. Students who remain at CSB/SJU beyond the 180 hours or 6 years are ineligible for financial aid. The maximum timeframe for a part-time student is the full time equivalent of six years. (For example, a student who registers each semester as a half time student has a maximum time frame of 12 years).
Transfer students: transfer coursework accepted for credit count toward the maximum timeframe (186 credit hours).
Change of majors: If the student changes majors, the credits earned under all majors will be included in the calculation of attempted, earned, and maximum timeframe credits, as well as your GPA calculation. The same policy applies in the case of a student changing from a B.A. degree to a B.S. degree (Nursing majors).
Second Degrees: The 150% timeframe also applies to students seeking a second degree. For example, a student who has obtained a degree, earning 126 credits, and decides to return for a second degree, the student will have 60 credits of eligibility to obtain the second degree. Students seeking a second bachelor's are eligible for loans (not grants).
Incomplete Grades: Credits for which an incomplete grade is received count toward attempted and earned hours in the end-of-semester GPA and credit completion (pace) calculations. If there is a subsequent change to an incomplete grade, the student's SAP status will be reviewed and updated as appropriate when SAP is next monitored, or sooner if the student notifies the financial aid office of the new grade.
Repeated Coursework: A student may choose to repeat a course to improve a grade. While repeating a course may improve the GPA, all credits are counted as attempted regardless of whether the credits are the initial or repeated course. The highest grade earned for a course is used in the calculation of GPA and earned credits. A student can receive federal aid for a previously passed course only once.
Withdrawing from a course: Courses a student withdraws from after the first 20 class days are considered in "hours attempted" for the maximum timeframe, and they are given a grade of "W". All withdrawals are treated in this manner, regardless of whether the student is passing or failing the course.
Noncredit remedial courses: No noncredit remedial coursework is offered.
Graduate Students SAP Policy
Two years is the normal time allowed for the completion of graduate papers, thesis, and/or comprehensives after coursework has been completed. Students whose work on the MA degree extends 8 years beyond matriculation are subject to the degree policies in effect at the time they resume their work. Additional credits beyond the stated degree requirements may be required at the discretion of the Associate Dean. Graduate students must maintain at least a 3.0 cumulative grade point average each year to remain in good standing. A student who has a cumulative grade point average of below 3.0 will be first placed on financial aid warning. If the graduate student has two consecutive semesters under a 3.0 cumulative grade point average, they will be placed on financial aid suspension. The appeal process is the same as for undergraduate students.
Withdrawals and Return of Financial Aid
Withdrawal procedures: A student who decides to discontinue from school during the semester must complete the proper withdrawal form with the Residential Life Office. The withdrawal date is the date the student began the withdrawal process or officially notified the school of their intent to withdraw, and normally aligns with the last date of class attendance. See below for unofficial withdrawals.
Refunds: If a student completely withdraws from the College of Saint Benedict and Saint John's University, the student may be eligible for a partial refund of tuition, fees, room and board charges for the semester. The refund schedule is posted on the Student Accounts websites:
Financial Aid: Financial aid recipients who withdraw during the semester and have completed 60% or less of the term are subject to the policies listed below. Students who complete over 60% of the semester prior to withdrawal may retain all of the financial aid disbursed for the semester of withdrawal. Students should be aware that federal, state and institutional financial aid may not cover all unpaid institutional charges due to the institution upon the student's withdrawal.
Return of Title IV Funds Policy: Student recipients of any federal aid may lose a portion of their federal aid if they withdraw prior to completing more than 60% of the semester. The following aid could be reduced in this situation: Federal Pell Grants, TEACH Grant, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (SEOG), Federal Perkins Loan, Federal Stafford (subsidized), Federal Stafford (unsubsidized) and Federal PLUS Loan.
The institutions use a federal formula to determine how much federal aid must be returned when the student withdraws. In general, federal and state regulations assume that a student "earns" federal and state financial aid in proportion to the number of days of the term the student attended.
Return of Title IV Funds is done in this order:
- Unsubsidized Stafford Loan
- Subsidized Stafford Loan
- Federal Perkins Loan
- Federal PLUS Loan
- Federal Pell Grant
- Federal SEOG
- TEACH Grant
- Other (if applicable)
Non-Title IV financial aid refunds:
If a student withdraws before completing more than 60% of the semester, a portion of the non-Title IV financial aid may also need to be returned. Non-title IV aid includes all state financial aid (MN State Grant, SELF and other state aid) and all institutional grants and scholarships. Outside scholarships are not subject to return. However, CSB/SJU will notify the organization should a student withdraw during the term and allow the organization to determine if they wish to have part or all of the scholarship returned. For state financial aid, CSB/SJU utilizes a state worksheet found in Section III, appendix 14 of the Minnesota Office of Higher Education Financial Aid Manual. In general, any remaining refund after taking the total amount of funds paid to the student's account (cash, financial aid) and subtracting the amount of charges the school can retain for tuition, fees, room, board and other charges and the institutional share of Title IV refund is prorated between Minnesota financial aid programs and institutional financial aid programs.
Late or Post-Withdrawal Disbursement
Students may be eligible for a late or post-withdrawal disbursement if they have accepted aid that did not disburse at the time of withdrawal from CSB/SJU.
If the student is eligible for a post-withdrawal disbursement of grant funds, CSB/SJU will disburse the funds to the student's account. If the student or parent is eligible for a post-withdrawal disbursement of Title IV loan funds, the financial aid office will send notification to the student to either accept or decline a portion, or all, of the late disbursement. If no response is received within approximately two weeks of notification, the loan(s) will be canceled.
Unofficial Withdrawal
The CSB/SJU financial aid office reviews academic progress after each semester. If a student receives all non-passing grades, an effort is made to determine the student's attendance record. If attendance in the term cannot be verified the student is determined to have unofficially withdrawn. Students are notified via CSB/SJU email if they are considered an unofficial withdrawal. Per Federal Return to Title IV regulations, federal financial aid is cancelled and state and institutional funds is adjusted using the 50% point of the term as the withdrawal date.
In order to reevaluate this determination, a student must submit documentation supporting attendance in all courses for the term. For example, a complete screenshot (including ID number) of Banner Web Self Service.
Students who "walk away" without notifying the institution or completing withdrawal paperwork will have their financial aid reduced based on a withdrawal date at the midpoint of the semester, per federal regulations.
Procedure for returning Title IV and non-Title IV aid: The financial aid staff at CSB/SJU are responsible for returning all required Title IV and non-Title IV aid to the proper fund. Federal Title IV aid will be returned as soon as possible, but no later than 45 days, after determining the student has withdrawn. The student's account will subsequently reflect any return of Title IV and non-Title IV financial aid.
Sample Calculation:
David was beginning his second year at SJU. Several weeks into the semester, he became ill and needed to withdraw from school. He was officially enrolled for 35 days of the 113 days in the fall semester. Since he was enrolled for less than 60% of the term (31%), he is subject to the Return of Title IV policy and part of his financial aid must be returned. Here was the award at the start of the semester:
Dean's Scholarship $3,000
Federal Pell Grant $1,000
MN Grant $2,420
Federal Perkins Loan $1,000
Federal Stafford (subsidized) $1,750
College Work Study (Federal) $1,300
According to the refund policy, David is eligible for a 50% refund of his tuition, fees, room and board. The refund totaled $7,437. David's federal aid subject to return is:
Federal Pell Grant $1,000
Federal Perkins Loan $1,000
Federal Stafford (subsidized) $1,750
Total $3,750
Note: Student employment earnings are not subject to Title IV refund.
The "unearned" portion of David's federal aid is 69%; as such 69% or $2,588 of the aid he received must be returned. The following aid would need to be returned:
Federal Stafford (subsidized) $1,750
Federal Perkins Loan $ 838
Federal Pell Grant $ 0
Non-Title IV financial aid is also subject to refund in this example. To calculate the amount of the refund, take the total payments made to David's account. (He had paid $1,500 cash in addition to the financial aid.)
Total payments: $10,670
Institutional charges school can retain: -$ 7,437
Gross Refund $ 3,233
Return of Title IV funds -$ 2,588
Remaining Refund $ 645
The $645 is returned to the Dean's Scholarship fund and MN Grant program in proportion to their amount. Dean's Scholarship receives 55.3% or $357; the MN Grant program receives $288.
Code of Conduct
CSB/SJU abide by the following Code of Conduct with regard to private student lenders:
- We do not engage in revenue sharing
- We do not accept gifts
- We are prohibited from entering consulting/contractual arrangements
- We are prohibited from accepting offers of funds for private loans
- We do not accept staffing assistance
- We are prohibited from receiving compensation for advisory board service


text:
Cooking Advanced
Skill Level: 2
Category: Household Arts
Original Honor: 1956
AdventSource Honors Handbook PDF
AdventSource Catalog: Advanced Star (must have approved order login) (link from AdventSource)
Wiki.pathfindersonline.org Article/Answer Key
Originating Institution: General Conference
1. Have the Cooking Honor.
2. How many cups make a quart? (How many mls to make a liter?) How many tablespoons to a cup? How many teaspoons to a tablespoon?
3. Prepare two main casserole dishes using macaroni, noodles, beans, or rice.
4. Prepare two different vegetable casserole dishes.
5. Prepare two kinds of salad. How are salads kept crisp?
6. Know the difference in food value between whole milk, lowfat milk, and non-dairy milk.
7. Prepare a balanced breakfast using the food pyramid guide.
8. Prepare a vegetarian entree dish.
9. Plan menus for one week, choosing at least three dishes in which leftovers may be used.
10. Prepare a balanced meal using a vegetarian entree, a vegetable casserole, and a salad.
11. Know several reasons why vinegar is unhealthful.
12. What does caffeine do to the body? List five foods that contain caffeine.
13. Have 25 recipes of personally-prepared dishes, not more than five of which are candies or desserts.


text:
Art Made from Mt. Everest Trash Exhibited in Nepal
. An exhibit in Kathmandu of art made from garbage discarded on Mt. Everest.
Sixty-five porters and 75 yaks labored over two years to bring more than eight tons of trash down from the slopes of Mount Everest -- delivering some of it into the hands of local artists who are exhibiting their "upcycled" sculptures in a bid to raise awareness about the litter problem on the world's highest peak.
Expeditions in spring 2011 and 2012 collected rusty oxygen tanks, old cooking-gas containers, broken tent poles, discarded food packaging, and even part of a helicopter that crashed on the mountain in 1974.An exhibit in Kathmandu of art made from garbage discarded on Mt. Everest.
Some of the trash was donated to Da Mind Tree/Art Club Nepal, the host of a month-long visual art symposium during which 15 artists created 75 pieces from the recycled raw materials. Their works, including a wind chime made from old tent poles and an idol of the Hindu God Ganesh that incorporates the helicopter remains, are currently on display in Kathmandu.
According to Republica, a daily English-language newspaper in Nepal, the artists are also collaborating on a large piece to be installed at the International Mountain Museum in Pokhara, the country's second-largest city.
It took two days to sort through all the trash collected.
"We thought that this would help promote the artists as well as contribute to making Everest clean. We were happy to get the trash and [the waste collectors] were happy to get rid of it," Kripa Rana Shahi, the organizer of the Mt. Everest-8848 Art Project I, told the British paper The Telegraph.
Some of the 50 tons of litter left on Mt. Everest over the last 60 years.
Garbage is a growing problem on the 29,028-foot mountain, which has been climbed by more than 4,000 people since the first ascent was made in 1953. An estimated 50 tons of trash have been left on Mt. Everest by climbers.
The Art Club Nepal eventually hopes to raise enough funds to have the trash sculptures installed on permanent display in the Everest region -- perhaps even along the trekking and mountaineering routes on which they were discarded -- in order to make visitors and locals alike more conscious of the problem.


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ARQ includes support for an explicit assignment of variables.
This involves is syntactic extension and is available is the query
is parsed with language
See also SELECT expressions which is also a form of assignment.
The general form is:
LET ( variable := expression )
For example:
LET ( ?x := 2 )
{ ?x :name ?name .
LET ( ?age2 := ?age - 21 )
Note: Assignment is ":="
ARQ assignment is single assignment, that is, once a variable is assigned a binding, then it can not be changed in the same query solution.
Only one
LET expression per variable is allowed in a single
The execution rules are:
Note that "same value" means the same as applies to graph pattern matching, not to FILTER expressions. Some graph implementation only provide same-term graph pattern matching. FILTERs always do value-based comparisons for "=" for all graphs.
One use is to perform some calculation prior to forming the result graph in a CONSTRUCT query.
CONSTRUCT { ?x :lengthInCM ?cm }
?x :lengthInInches ?inch .
LET ( ?cm := ?inches/2.54 )
The OPTIONAL/!BOUND/FILTER idiom for performing limited negation of a pattern in SPARQL can be inconvenient because it requires a variable in the OPTIONAL to be assigned by pattern matching. Using a LET can make that easier; here, we assign to ?z (any value will do) to mark when the matching pattern included the OPTIONAL pattern.
Example: ?x with no ":p 1" triple:
?x a :FOO .
OPTIONAL { ?x :p 1 . LET (?z := true) }
FILTER ( !BOUND(?z) )
Note that negation is supported properly through
NOT EXISTS form.


text:
'American Idol' Resurrected at ABC
Network has not yet announced any judges or host
"American Idol" is back from the dead just 13 months after ending its long run on Fox.
The competitive singing series, rumored for months now to be making a return, has been revived at ABC. The network broke the news Tuesday morning on "Good Morning America," revealing the comeback would happen sometime during the 2017-18 TV season.
ABC declined to name either judges or a host for its reboot, though a report in the New York Times was quick to point out that former "American Idol" host Ryan Seacrest "joined ABC and Disney's syndicated morning show, 'Live,' last week."
"American Idol" is credited with changing the landscape of reality and competitive TV after it burst onto the scene in 2002. Ratings started to dwindle in its later years, however—especially as competitors like "The Voice" grew more popular—but "Idol" still reportedly averaged over 11 million viewers when Fox pulled the plug.
Still, the Times report has called ABC's decision to breathe life back into the show "a head-spinning move, even by the standards of broadcast networks desperately searching for a hit."
Click here for more on the story.


text:
I am just going to share some thoughts regarding the events in episode 5.
The investigation for our main characters continue as a new case was handed down to detective Oh as a special favor and at the same time, somewhat confidential. Another missing person has been added to the list but this time it was the daughter of a candidate for the next Justice of Ministry, Nam Seok Tae. He seemed to be favored by the majority of the citizens and most of them who have been interviewed were really rooting for Nam Seok Tae. The man used to be a practicing lawyer. He is also a friend of Oh Dae Young and Soo Hyun's superior Park Jung Do. The case should be handled discreetly.
It's funny how detective Oh thought that this is one of those easy case, like finding an errant daughter that happened to rebel and just hide or runaway from home. He thought that he does not need help from Soo Hyun who was then busy focusing all his energy in connecting pieces on a puzzle. But then, Oh finds himself at a dead end after interviewing Yeong Eun's friends who were the last to have seen her the night she went missing.
The story is another case of revenge. A murder case from 10 years back where Nam Tae Seok was the defendant's lawyer was dismissed because there was no body to prove that the murder took place. The boyfriend then, Kim Dae Soo walked away scott free from being sentenced by the law. Nam Tae Seok, according to him believes that there should be physical evidence to prove the allegation of murder because there was a precedent case where one was convicted of murdering another without finding the body and after a few years, the supposed to be murdered person was alive.
I think this thinking has solid ground but then it should not be taken as a parameter in murder cases. The victim's family back then was a brother, Ko Dong Joo who was devastated at the actual decision about his sister's missing/murder case. It was as if he was mocked by the law that was supposed to protect him just because no one knew where his sister's body was. The case also led him to hope that his sister is still alive somewhere even if there is conflicting thoughts inside his head.
Now is the time to avenge his sister's disappearance. Now when Nam Tae Seok is after a high position in the government. At least there should be justice even after ten years late. He was the one who abducted his daughter the night she walked alone in that enclosed bridge/tunnel. A homeless man was a witness that night. He saw a woman was being followed by a man. He was very clear on that image because a sound coming from a bracelet she wore produced sounds that night.
It was scary how the luggages found ion an abandoned place that were purchased by Yeong Eun's card has stains of blood on some of the clothes. Still, it is not enough to conclude that she is dead because the amount of blood can only be compared to a bleeding from a cut, like on skin or finger. Oh and Soo Hyun who are now joining forces in solving the case believe that she is still alive somewhere.
I was scared of some scenes though because personally, I have a weak heart and stomach for brutal sights like the envisioned scenario of Soo Hyun where the woman was inside a plastic bag inside the red luggage. This is really tough for me as a viewer. It was suffocating me watching that scene. Anyway, that scenario was not a first because it was what happened to Dong Joo's sister.
With Soo Hyun's expertise and Oh's amazing instincts, they were able to find clues that led them to solve the crime, if there is one. Finding out that Nam Tae Seok had defended the suspect years ago has a connection to the possible suspect now who could have abducted Nam Tae Seok's daughter was a revelation.
In order to prove that there was conspiracy and bribery during the trial of Kim Dae Soo, Soo Hyun tracked back to find leads. He found Dae Soo. He also learned that there was bribe between Nam Tae Seok and his mother. He also found out that Dae Soo's mother prohibited him from stepping near to their house in another place. He went there to investigate and found out that the house was built in good materials but no one lives there. He also noticed a stone wall that seemed to have been patched poorly. Instinct told him there was something inside that must have been hidden. And the scary truth was revealed. The missing body was inside that stone wall inside the red luggage.
I think the realization that his sister is truly dead is even more devastating and heart wrenching now. To have lived all these years with hope despite fears of knowing those thoughts and hopes were futile is too much to take in. The purpose of his revenge is to really find his sister.
Nam Tae Seok's daughter is well and safe. She was told by Dong Joo to just stay still and quiet for a while. For reasons she must have trusted, she did as she was told. But the consequences of knowing that Dae Soo is living as a free man all these years made Dong Joo took the law in his own hands. He killed Dae Soo.
All this while Nam Tae Seok is not even remorseful or guilty or regretful of all his actions. His greed to sit on the Ministry of Justice seat is his one and only goal. I find him detestable as a human being and not suited to wear the uniform of the Ministry of Justice. It's frightening how he will be the man who will lead the justice system.
There was a scene where Dong Joo was shown watching a video of him and his sister. The sibling antics were sweet and loving. It was as if all this time Dong Joo has lived to find his sister and that time had stood still, waiting, just waiting for her to come back.
Dong Joo has no more reason to live. Somehow, he found it tiring and resigned to the fact that everything now is finished. I have always felt that it seems easy for them to take away their lives when hope is gone. Maybe it's their culture and their way of thinking but hoping that it is not so.
Soo Hyun, Oh and Nam tae Seok all witnessed Dong Joo jumping from the rooftop of a high building with various emotions playing on their faces. Of course, there was shock and helpless expressions for our detectives and a nonchalant one/ or like shrugging off expression on Nam Tae Seok.
Guess his conscience can't find the any guilt inside him which makes him even more disgusting.
So what's the real message of the story?
Choices or actions we made have corresponding consequences and they might just caught up with us in times we are not expecting them. And with grave effect that is too much to handle. In this story, Nam Tae Seok should be paying for his choices to free a murderer. As for Dae Soo, he got killed for his sins. The only one who had a taste of life's miseries and not received justice was Dong Joo.
Again, both Soo Hyun and Oh together with Jin Seo Joon did a great job in solving the case. Interesting, mysterious and eye opener to viewers like me.
writing random thoughts for this blog
screen caps