The group comprises of stakeholders from the public and private sectors A high-level working group has been convened to aid in facilitating the growth and development of Jamaica’s animation industry.The group, which has been assembled by Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Anthony Hylton, comprises of stakeholders from the public and private sectors, the animation industry, training institutions, business support services, and financial institutions.“The taskforce has already started to craft the policy framework required to support all aspects of the industry, through the provision of the most enabling environment,” the Minister informed on July 17, as he addressed an animation workshop at JAMPRO’s New Kingston offices.The establishment of the group is among initiatives by the Government to drive growth in the animation sector and position Jamaica as the animation hub of the entire Americas.Mr. Hylton said that through JAMPRO and the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), a finishing school will be developed to equip animators with the skills to compete on the world stage.He informed that the administration is already in discussion with the HEART Trust/NTA for the inclusion of an animation workforce training course, to be added to their curriculum, “to produce Jamaica’s first home grown batch of animators”.Currently valued at over US$200 billion, the global animation industry has been growing at a tremendous pace over the past four years, expanding by over $1 billion per year, which is equivalent to a 20 per cent yearly growth rate.Minister Hylton said that this presents tremendous economic opportunities for Jamaica and the Government is committed to ensuring that “we do not miss the animation boat”. He noted that the network of animators and animation outfits in Jamaica continues to grow, with four animation studios exporting their services globally.He said that Jamaica has many advantages in the sector including access to a large, skilled workforce, a near shore advantage and cultural affinity with the large animation markets of the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom. In addition, Jamaica is the third largest English-speaking nation in the Western Hemisphere, with a strong reputation for creativity.“Outsourcing in the animation industry is lucrative, and makes for good business sense because gone are the days when any job is completed in one location. In 2012, global animation revenue in entertainment alone generated over US$100 billion, most of which was specific to the video game industry, and discrete elements of any video game are produced in several spaces. The ship of outsourcing animation is sailing, and Jamaica needs to be on board,” he stated.The Minister further noted that animation can be integrated into pre-existing plans, such as the Logistics Hub Initiative, tourism and sports.“In exploring the possibilities for the growth of the animation industry, we need to factor in the linkages to other industries. For example, animation is a tried and proven methodology for the creation of training videos in every discipline at every level. It will also undoubtedly play an important role in a wide range of communication and media related activity associated with the development of the Logistics Hub,” he said.Stating that a “platinum opportunity” awaits the country in the global animation industry, he said that Jamaica must prepare and position itself to take advantage of the opportunities, and use them as platforms for economic growth, and job and wealth creation.“Becoming a key player in the global animation industry will have a significant positive impact on the medium, small and micro enterprises (MSME) sector and will support the goals of the National Development Plan Vision 2030.The Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce remains committed to that wider goal of economic development and in building the animation industry …Jamaica’s brand dominance exists in the areas of sports, music and aspects of culture. Let us now work towards carving out our niche and becoming a mega brand in global animation,” he stated.Chairman, JAMPRO, Milton Samuda, said being a labour intensive industry, animation provides employment opportunities for Jamaica’s inventive youth and more importantly, given the highly mobile attributes of the sector, it has a strong potential for the exports of services and the earning of well-needed foreign exchange for Jamaica.“JAMPRO has played a significant role to date in engaging our animators and establishing linkages with external stakeholders – both from a developmental and support point-of-view as well as in respect for demand for animation services,” he said.He said that through the workshop, the organisation is seeking to continue the critical work required to lay the foundation for building the Jamaican animation industry.Entitled: ‘SME Internalisation: Positioning the animation industry for investments and exports’, the workshop was put on by JAMPRO in collaboration with the IDB. Story Highlights
The organisation is seeking to continue the critical work required to lay the foundation for building the Jamaican animation industry
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Suezmax Tanker Market Strong
“We believe that there are positive signs in the market for Suezmax tankers. With this letter I wish to make it clear that a lower oil price is contributing positively to our business beyond the effects of changing trade patterns and constrained Suezmax tanker supply growth. We remain cautious as always but we believe we see some bright spots on the horizon,” Hansson explained. zoom The recent drop in the oil price is positive for world tanker business, Herbjørn Hansson, Chairman & CEO of Nordic American Tankers Limited (NAT) said in a letter to the company’s shareholders.According to Hansson, the Suezmax tanker market is strong at the moment and the upswing in Suezmax tanker rates in the recent past may have been influenced by the decrease in the oil price. “The most significant impact of a lower oil price is an increase in oil demand. Lower prices may trigger stockpiling or have a more general positive impact. A saving of USD 20 per barrel equates to savings for the US of about USD 55 billion annually. Such an oil price decrease has the same effect on the overall economy as a tax reduction,” he went on to say.As there is a significant domestic oil production in the US at the moment, there is an increase in volumes of oil being transported boosting demand for Suezmax tankers.Speaking of the outlook, Hansson believes that the Suezmax fleet could shrink over the next few years.“The improved rates earned in 3Q2014 have continued into 4Q2014. This is also a reflection of higher total fleet utilization. Based on the world Suezmax tanker orderbook, supply can be expected to remain constrained in the near term, which is positive for our business,” NAT CEO said. Press Release; Image courtesy: DN GL/Damir Cvetojevic
Man celebrated as a hero after saving lives in tragic BC house
APTN National NewsIn British Columbia a tragic house fire in surrey claimed the life of an elderly woman.But if it weren’t for the quick actions of one man more may have died.Now they’re calling Trevor Yellowbird a hero.APTN’s Tina House has this story.
Search for WHO chiefs replacement tops agenda of executive board
Dr. Brundtland will end her five-year term as head of the UN’s lead health agency in July. During the course of this week, the 32 expert-members of the Board will examine all the candidates proposed and make a short list of five candidates, who will then be interviewed on 27 January. The Board will vote on 28 January, the final day of the meeting, for the candidate who will be nominated to the World Health Assembly for confirmation. The Board will also draft the contract for the new Director-General establishing terms and conditions of employment and salary and other considerations.
The Great One plays it safe with retirement funds freezes out risky
by The Canadian Press Posted Oct 1, 2012 5:52 pm MDT The Great One plays it safe with retirement funds, freezes out risky investments TORONTO – He may have been daring on the ice, but when it comes to money, even the Great One likes to play it safe.Wayne Gretzky says he learned early on to live within his means and keep his nest egg secure — in the bank.That means staying away from the stock market, something Gretzky admits he doesn’t know anything about.The hockey icon doled out financial advice this morning at an event meant to promote TD Waterhouse, the brokerage division of TD Bank Financial Group.Despite hanging up his skates in 1999, Gretzky has parlayed his name into a money-making brand, thanks to deals with TD, Ford, Samsung and others.The self-proclaimed “conservative” investor — who once owned a stake in the Phoenix Coyotes — is also involved with a variety of business interests carrying his name, including a winery and a Toronto-based restaurant.“I just like to keep my money in the bank, I’m not a big risk-taker,” he told a Toronto business audience Monday.“I don’t know anything about the stock market … I stay away from things I don’t know anything about.” AddThis Sharing ButtonsShare to TwitterTwitterShare to FacebookFacebookShare to RedditRedditShare to 電子郵件Email
LNH Round 4 PSG wins Istres with the first point
aixcessoncreteilDunkerqueistresnimesPSGselestattremblay PSG Handball continues with performing better after a weak start. This time in a high-scoring game against Nimes, PSG Handball managed to win 35:30, and equal with the table leaders on level points with Montpellier and Nantes. Istres finally won their first point, after they made a surprising draw away at Chambery Savoie. Both teams were pretty even in the game, neither side taking a more serious lead. The game ended 22:22.Scores: Chambery 22:22 Istres, Dunkerque 27:26 Creteil, Selestat 24:32 Cesson, Tremblay 27:27 Aix, Nimes 30:35 PSG ← Previous Story Bundesliga (Round 8): RN Lowen trash Minden to extend table lead Next Story → SEHA: Meshkov with “up and down” beat Radnicki
Christos Tsirkas receives lifelong ALP membership
Facebook Twitter: @NeosKosmos Instagram Christos Tsirkas, 74, former president of the the once numerous Greek-speaking Australian Labor Party branches in Victoria, received his lifelong membership of the ALP at the state conference last weekend.Mr Tsirkas, who has been an ALP member since 1972, had worked as a booking clerk at Flinders Street Station for nearly 40 years.He was also one of the most active members of the Rail Tram and Bus Industry Union, promoting Labor’s core values. “I have known Christos Tsirkas for almost 40 years. It was Christos who facilitated my joining the Australian Labor Party in 1982,” Maria Vamvakinou MP told Neos Kosmos.“One of the first people to mentor me during that period was Christos Tsirkas. He has mentored, and continues to encourage, young, progressive Greek Australians.”Ms Vamvakinou reflected on the beginnings of her involvement in the Greek community through her association with committee members of the Greek Orthodox Community of Melbourne and Victoria in the early 80s, and with the ALP round the time of the dismissal of Gough Whitlam in 1975. Ms Vamvakinou continued, saying that Mr Tsirkas was one of the most prominent figures of political and community activism throughout some of the most significant and momentous periods in the union movement, the labour movement, is active in the Greek community, and has served on the board of the Greek Community of Melbourne and Victoria. “He has fought for the rights of migrants and he has worked hard on behalf of the Greek community,” Ms Vamvakinou stressed. “As a union man, he has fought many battles to ensure and protect the rights of workers; fighting for their wages and conditions.”“More importantly, he fought for and supported me in becoming the Federal Member for Calwell,” she said, adding that she owes her political career to him.“He remains a friend and supporter, and to all of us in the Greek community he is known for his continued support and mentoring of generations of young Greek Australians. Christos Tsirkas is an icon, and I was very proud to stand with him when he received his lifelong membership of the ALP. He has dedicated his life to the service of the community and to the labour movement, he has done it with passion, with conviction and with his own and unique style: a legend.”
Les enfants nés à terme ont plus de facilités dans lapprentissage
Les enfants nés à terme ont plus de facilités dans l’apprentissageUne nouvelle étude menée par des chercheurs américains met en évidence les influences bénéfiques de la naissance à terme sur le développement du cerveau et l’apprentissage scolaire. Naître à terme favorise un meilleur développement du cerveau. C’est du moins ce que suggère une étude menée par des chercheurs américains sur 128.000 élèves d’une école publique de New York aux Etats-Unis. En effet, ces travaux mettent en évidence un lien entre la réussite ou non des tests scolaires et la semaine de grossesse à laquelle l’enfant est né. Entre la 37ème et la 41ème, l’accouchement est considéré à terme tandis qu’avant la 37ème le nourrisson est considéré comme prématuré.À lire aussiPourquoi certains s’évanouissent-ils à la vue du sang ?Les résultats, publiés sur la revue en ligne Pediatrics indiquent un taux de 2,3% d’enfants nés à la 37ème semaine de grossesse et présentant des difficultés aux épreuves de lecture contre 1,8 des enfants nés à terme. De même, selon l’étude, le risque qu’un élève soit en difficulté durant son apprentissage est 33% fois plus élevé lorsque celui-ci nait prématuré. Si les différences sont assez minimes, les chercheurs s’interrogent sur le rapport entre besoins et conséquences des césariennes et déclenchements de conforts. Une question importante alors que plus d’un bébé sur dix nait aujourd’hui prématurément dans le monde.Les femmes devraient “au moins réfléchir attentivement avant de choisir d’accoucher avant terme”, explique dans un communiqué Kimberly Noble, professeur adjoint de pédiatrie au centre médical de l’université de Columbia citée par l’AFP. “Il y a encore beaucoup de bébés qui naissent, de façon plus ou moins programmée, à 37 et 38 semaines, avec des gens qui pensent ‘Ce n’est pas un problème, ces bébés sont à terme’. Je pense que c’est un problème” souligne quant à elle Judy Aschner, professeur de pédiatrie et directrice du service de néonatalogie au centre médical de l’université Vanderbilt.Les scientifiques incitent donc à bien mesurer les risques qui poussent à déclencher prématurément un accouchement et s’ils ne sont pas suffisamment importants, d’essayer de retarder celui-ci. Judy Aschner conclut ainsi : “Je ne veux pas paniquer les mamans dont les bébés arrivent à 37 semaines, mais ces accouchements déclenchés prématurément doivent vraiment cesser”.Le 7 juillet 2012 à 10:58 • Maxime Lambert
Foxconn recommits to Wisconsin plant despite governors doubts
Sarah Tew/CNET Share your voice Turo: Save $30 on any car rental Chris Monroe/CNET $90 at Daily Steals via Google Express See It TVs Speakers Mobile Accessories Cameras Laptops Automobiles Smart Speakers & Displays An Echo Dot makes a fine match for any Fire edition TV, because you can use the latter to say things like, “Alexa, turn on the TV.” Right now, the 24-inch Insignia Fire TV Edition starts at just $100, while the 32-inch Toshiba Fire TV Editions is on sale for $130. Just add any Fire TV Edition to your cart, then add a third-gen Echo Dot, and presto: The latter is free. Turo $520 at HP Read Lenovo Smart Clock review Tags Comments Lenovo Smart Clock: $59.99 (save $20) See at Turo CNET may get a commission from retail offers. Angela Lang/CNET 7 DJI Osmo Action camera: $261 (save $89) HP Laptop 15t Value: $520 (save $780) $999 $999 JBL Soundgear wearable speaker: $90 (save $160) Other Labor Day sales you should check out Best Buy: In addition to some pretty solid MacBook deals that have been running for about a week already, Best Buy is offering up to 40% off major appliances like washers, dryers and stoves. There are also gift cards available with the purchase of select appliances. See it at Best BuyDell: Through Aug. 28, Dell is offering an extra 12% off various laptops, desktops and electronics. And check back starting Aug. 29 for a big batch of Labor Day doorbusters. See it at DellGlassesUSA: Aug. 29 – Sept. 3 only, you can save 65% on all frames with promo code labor65. See it at GlassesUSALenovo: The tech company is offering a large assortment of deals and doorbusters through Labor Day, with the promise of up to 56% off certain items — including, at this writing, the IdeaPad 730S laptop for $700 (save $300).See it at LenovoLensabl: Want to keep the frames you already love and paid for? Lensabl lets you mail them in for new lenses, based on your prescription. From now through Sept. 2 only, you can save 20% on the blue light-blocking lens option with promo code BLOCKBLUE. See it at LensablSears: Between now and Sept. 7, you can save up to 40% on appliances (plus an additional 10% if you shop online), up to 60% on mattresses, up to 50% on Craftsman products and more. The store is also offering some fairly hefty cashback bonuses. See it at SearsNote: This post was published previously and is continuously updated with new information.CNET’s Cheapskate scours the web for great deals on tech products and much more. For the latest deals and updates, follow the Cheapskate on Facebook and Twitter. Questions about the Cheapskate blog? Find the answers on our FAQ page, and find more great buys on the CNET Deals page. Amazon Spotify and most other streaming services rely on compressed audio, which robs the listener of full fidelity. Enter Tidal, the only “major” service that delivers lossless audio — meaning at least on par with CD quality, if not better. Want to see (er, hear) the difference for yourself? Grab this excellent extended trial while you can. It’s just $6 for three months, and it’s good for up to six listeners. Use promo code 19LABOR10 to get an unusually good deal on JBL’s interesting hybrid product — not quite headphones, and not quite a traditional speaker, but something you wear like neckphones to listen to music on the go. Recently updated to include digital-photo-frame capabilities, the Lenovo Smart Clock brings Google Assistant goodness to your nightstand. It’s a little smaller than the Amazon Echo Show 5, but also a full $30 less (and tied with Prime Day pricing) during this Best Buy Labor Day sale. Tidal 3-month family subscription: $5.99 (save $54) $999 $59 at eBay Read Google Home Hub review Foxconn,I’m shocked — shocked! — to learn that stores are turning Labor Day into an excuse to sell stuff. Wait — no, I’m not. As much as I respect the original intent of the holiday (which became official back in 1894), to most of us, it’s just a bonus day off — one that’s blissfully tacked onto a weekend. So, yeah, stores; go ahead, run your sales. I’m listening. Perhaps unsurprisingly, Labor Day doesn’t bring out bargains to compete with the likes of Black Friday (which will be here before you know it), but there are definitely some sales worth your time.For example:We’ve rounded up the best Labor Day mattress deals.We’ve also gathered the best Labor Day laptop deals at Best Buy.The 2019 Vizio P Series Quantum is back under $999.Be sure to check out Amazon’s roughly three dozen Labor Day deals on TVs and audio. Google Express is having a big sale as well, one that includes deals on game consoles, AirPods, iPhones, laptops and more.Below I’ve rounded up a handful of individual items I consider to be the cream of the crop, followed by a handy reference guide to other Labor Day sales. Keep in mind, of course, that products may sell out at any time, even if the sale itself is still running. Note that CNET may get a share of revenue from the sale of the products featured on this page. See it $210 at Best Buy Read DJI Osmo Action preview Apple iPhone XS Preview • iPhone XS is the new $1,000 iPhone X $155 at Google Express 3
Free Echo Dot with an Insignia or Toshiba TV (save $50) Read the Rylo camera preview Sarah Tew/CNET Tags Share your voice The problem with most entry-level laptops: They come with mechanical hard drives. That makes for a mighty slow Windows experience. This Lenovo model features a 128GB solid-state drive, so it should be pretty quick to boot and load software, even with its basic processor. Plus, it has a DVD-burner! That’s not something you see in many modern laptops, especially at this price. The Cheapskate Sprint Apple AirPods with Wireless Charging Case: $155 (save $45) $261 at Daily Steals via Google Express Best Buy Turo is kind of like Uber meets Airbnb: You borrow someone’s car, but you do all the driving. I’ve used it many times and found it a great alternative to traditional car-rental services — in part because you get to choose exactly the vehicle you want (not just, say, “midsize”) and in part because you can often do pickup and dropoff right outside baggage claim.Between now and Sept. 1, the first 300 people to check out can get $30 off any Turo rental with promo code LDW30. DJI’s answer to GoPro’s action cameras is rugged little model that’s shockproof, dustproof and waterproof down to 11 meters. It normally runs $350, but this deal drops it to $261 when you apply promo code 19LABOR10 at checkout. See at Amazon $60 at Best Buy Rylo Review • iPhone XS review, updated: A few luxury upgrades over the XR Comments Google Nest Hub: $59 (save $70) See It Sarah Tew/CNET $6 at Tidal See It Boost Mobile Mentioned Above Apple iPhone XS (64GB, space gray) Best laptops for college students: We’ve got an affordable laptop for every student. Best live TV streaming services: Ditch your cable company but keep the live channels and DVR. Formerly known as the Google Home Hub, Google’s Nest Hub packs a wealth of Google Assistant goodness into a 7-inch screen. At $59, this is within a buck of the best price we’ve seen. It lists for $129 and sells elsewhere in the $89-to-$99 range.This is one item of many available as part of eBay’s Labor Day Sale (which, at this writing, doesn’t specifically mention Labor Day, but that’s how it was pitched to us). Read the AirPods review What’s cooler: A snapshot of a firework exploding in front of you, or full 360-degree video of all the fireworks and all the reactions to seeing them? Oooh, ahhh, indeed. At $250, the compact Rylo dual-lens camera is selling for its lowest price yet. And for an extra $50, you can get the bundle that includes the waterproof housing.This deal runs through Sept. 3; it usually costs $500. $999 Tech Industry Rylo 5.8K 360 Video Camera: $250 (save $250) President Donald Trump (left) and Rep. Paul Ryan of Wisconsin (right) joined Foxconn founder Terry Gou at the groundbreaking of the company’s Wisconsin plant last summer. Andy Manis / Getty Images Foxconn apparently still has big plans for Wisconsin, even though the state’s governor is skeptical.The Taiwan-based contract manufacturer best known for assembling Apple iPhones said Friday it remains committed to building a factory and research facility in the state.”Foxconn’s commitment to job creation in Wisconsin remains long term and will span over the length of the WEDC (Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation) contract and beyond,” said Foxconn Technology Group in an emailed statement. The company added that construction on its facility to manufacture LCD displays will start this summer, though it didn’t specify how many people it plans to hire. Foxconn said in 2017 that the $10 billion facility would make LCD displays and employ up to 13,000 people, but reports earlier this year suggested the company was scaling back its plans. On Wednesday, Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers said that the project would likely be much smaller than originally planned and that it’s “unrealistic” to expect Foxconn to hire 13,000 people. “The bottom line is they’ve shrunk their expectations,” Evers said. “That’s what they’re communicating now.”Evers, a Democrat, inherited the deal from previous Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker. Walker helped woo Foxconn to Wisconsin with the largest incentive in state history, and Evers was critical during his campaign of Walker’s dealings with the company. Evers’ office didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment.Foxconn’s future has also come into question as Chairman Terry Gou announced Wednesday that he’s entering the 2020 presidential race in Taiwan. Gou said he would “withdraw from daily operations” at Foxconn if he wins a primary election to represent the Kuomintang party, according to CNN.Originally published April 19, 6:50 a.m. PT.Update, 7:36 a.m.: Adds background on Foxconn Chairman Terry Gou. I thought this might be a mistake, but, no, the weirdly named HP Laptop 15t Value is indeed quite the value at this price. Specs include an Intel Core i7 processor, 12GB of RAM, a 256GB solid-state drive and a 15.6-inch display. However, I strongly recommend paying an extra $50 to upgrade that display to FHD (1,920×1,080), because you’re not likely to be happy with the native 1,366×768 resolution. Though not technically a Labor Day sale, it’s happening during Labor Day sale season — and it’s too good not to share. Nationwide Distributors, via Google Express, has just about the best AirPods deal we’ve seen (when you apply promo code ZBEDWZ at checkout). This is for the second-gen AirPods with the wireless charging case. Can’t imagine these will last long at this price, so if you’re interested, act fast. Lenovo 130-15AST 15.6-inch laptop: $210 (save $90) $299 at Amazon Sarah Tew/CNET
Moose hunters riled over new restrictions on militarytraining range access to camps
Fort Wainwright officials say they attempted to accommodate hunters’ concerns over access through the Donnelly Training Area ranges near Fort Greely by scheduling training for different times through August. (Fort Wainwright graphic)Moose-hunting season begins in just over two weeks, and hunters are up in arms over restrictions on access through military-training ranges that will make it hard for them to get back into their favorite camps. Fort Wainwright officials say they’ve tried to accommodate hunters’ concerns. But they say the restrictions are needed because the ranges around Fort Greely will be busy for the next few weeks with Air Force Red Flag training exercises.Michael Bryan says he won’t be going moose hunting this year, because he can’t get back into his camp near the base of Mount Hayes due to restrictions that’ll keep him from flying through airspace over ranges around Fort Greely.“It’s an area where hunters have traditionally gone for decades,” Bryan said. “And, myself and my hunting partner, we’ve been going to our camp for 25 years.”Bryan says he’s especially disappointed because Fort Wainwright officials announced the restrictions and training schedule on July 30th – too late for him to re-jigger his schedule.“At the 11th hour, the military published a training schedule and a map that eliminated or greatly reduced the hunting opportunities in a big portion of the eastern Tanana Flats,” Bryan said.Fort Wainwright spokesman Brady Gross says post officials have gotten some complaints about the restrictions over the past couple of weeks. But he says they’ve tried to accommodate hunters by coordinating with Air Force officials to stagger the Red Flag training schedule and open up opportunities for hunters to access the ranges or their airspace en route to their camps.“We did coordinate with the Air Force to keep as many areas open as possible,” Gross said.Bryan agrees the Army and Air Force have tried to reach out to hunters. But he says they didn’t reach very far.“They have made some marginal efforts to accommodate hunters,” Bryan said. “But very little.”Gross says Wainwright officials didn’t have a lot of wiggle room this year, because this round of Red Flag training will be especially busy. He says that’s because the Air Force has adopted a two-year cycle for exercises that involves more aircraft and training on even-numbered years. And he says on those years, the ranges will have to be set up for the heavier schedule.“They need to modify the training area to support Red Flag training with their units,” Gross said.Wainwright officials emphasized the Red Flag training that began Thursday is essential to ensuring the pilots are trained and ready to quickly respond to trouble spots. Bryan says hunters agree with that.“None of us hunters out there have any problem with a well-trained military,” Bryan said. “My wife is retired military. My hunting partner is a retired full-bird colonel, having served 28 years in the service.”Bryan says he and other hunters have talked about the restrictions with staff of Alaska’s congressional delegation and members of organizations like Resident Hunters of Alaska as well as a state Department of Fish and Game’s advisory panel.“The Fairbanks Area Advisory Committee for Fish and Game will be meeting in October,” Bryan said. “And this will be a point of discussion, certainly.”Bryan says he hopes those talks will lead to a solution that won’t keep him and his fellow hunters from getting into their favorite hunting spots every other year.
Three Science Experiments You Can Do With Your Phone
Everyone already knows that you are carrying around a computer in your pocket. But your smartphone is more than just a computer—it’s also a data collector. I’m going to guess that yours can measure acceleration, magnetic field, sound, location, and maybe more. Many phones also can measure pressure. Oh, and some phones can even make phone calls.With all of those sensors available, I’m going to go over three fun experiments you can do with your phone. These will probably work on just about any smartphone—and you can probably use a variety of apps to collect the data. For these examples, I’m going to stick with phyphox (http://phyphoxorg). There have been lots of data collecting apps—but this one is the best I’ve seen lately. Also, it’s free and runs on both iOS and Android. Check it out.Bouncing BallGet a small ball—actually, the size doesn’t really matter. There are only two things that the ball needs to do for this experiment: It needs to bounce and it needs to make a noise when it hits the table (or whatever surface it hits). That’s it. Now start up your phyphox (pronounced fi-fox) app and open up the experiment file “(In)elastic collision.” Place your phone near the location that the ball will hit the surface so that the microphone can pick up the sound. Start recording and drop the ball.The app then records all of the times the ball hits the ground. It’s pretty cool. The app also uses the time between bounces to calculate the bounce height (I suppose the calculation assumes you are on the surface of the Earth with a vertical acceleration of 9.8 m/s2).Just for fun, here is a plot of bounce height vs. bounce number for a small metal ball bouncing on my lab table. [embedded content]But now that data is super simple to collect—you can explore the relationship between initial drop distance and bounce height for a wide variety of balls. What changes for each successive bounce? Does it lose the same height or the same energy? In case you are curious, this is something I looked at some time ago (more details).Measuring the Speed of SoundAlthough it’s fun to come up with your own experimental method to determine the speed of sound—here is a method that works fairly well using two smartphones. You need to run something that will act as an acoustic stop watch (phyphox has one). The acoustic stop watch is just like a normal timer. The only difference is that it starts and stops the timing based on a loud sound—like a clap.So here is how this experiment works. Take two phones and put them a known distance apart—I used my 12 foot tape measurer to set the distance (further is better, but both phones need to be able to hear the same sounds). Let’s call these two phones phone-A and phone-B. Next, someone needs to clap next to phone-A to start both timers. Of course since phone-B is a little farther away, it will start slightly later. After some short time interval (doesn’t really matter), someone claps next to phone-B stopping both phones but stopping phone-B first.Here’s how it works. Phone-B starts a little bit later—as I said. Now when the clap is near phone-B it essentially stops right on time. However, phone-A starts late because of the distance sound has to travel. The two phones record two different time intervals. The difference between these time intervals is the time for sound to travel from A to B and back from B to A.Now for the calculation. The speed of sound will just be twice the measured distance between the two phones (for there and back sound) divided by the difference in time intervals. [embedded content]Just knowing the height of the building is pretty cool—but how about a homework problem for you? Use the position-time data to calculate the elevator velocity and compare that to the velocity from the acceleration data. They probably won’t give the same results since the barometer doesn’t give pressure readings super fast—but it will still be fun.Are there more experiments? Of course! But that’s enough to get you started for now.More Great WIRED StoriesBehind The Meg, the movie the internet wouldn’t let dieSimple steps to protect yourself on public Wi-FiHow to make millions charging prisoners to send an emailWho’s to blame for your bad tech habits? It’s complicatedThe genetics (and ethics) of making humans fit for MarsLooking for more? Sign up for our daily newsletter and never miss our latest and greatest stories
Now for my data. With a distance of 12 feet (3.66 meters) and the two time intervals of 2.047 seconds and 2.029 seconds, I get a sound speed of about 407 m/s. This is wrong—but only slightly wrong. The accepted value for the speed of sound should be around 343 m/s (depends on temperature of the air and stuff). But I’m OK with my value—it was just a quick setup. I think you could play around with this and see if you could get an even better answer. What if you did it outside with a greater distance (and louder noise)? That would be fun to try.Determining the Height of a BuildingYes, I know the previous two phone experiments used the microphone—and even a traditional analog phone has a microphone. But what about a barometer that measures the atmospheric pressure? Yes, many smartphones now have this sensor—the reason is probably to help the GPS to get a better location. The GPS doesn’t do as well with altitude, so the barometer gives a little better reading based on the change in air pressure.But this change in air pressure can also be used while you take ride up (or down) in an elevator. I’ve done this before in a nice elevator, but I decided to do it in a crappy two-story elevator too. Using the phyphox app, it records the change in pressure and with that calculates the height as a function of time. It also records data from the accelerometer to calculate the velocity as a function of time (assume the elevator starts from rest).Here is the data from the crappy elevator run.
Spain Father of African boy found in suitcase freed on bail
Comments Share Quick workouts for men Police images of the scanned case, showing the boy curled up inside, drew international attention and highlighted the harrowing plight of migrants trying to reach Europe.Ouattara, who lives with his Ivory Coast wife — the boy’s mother– legally in Spain, said through his lawyers he knew nothing of the suitcase plan, believing his son was to be brought in with a visa. He was arrested entering Ceuta hours after the boy was discovered.The Moroccan woman remains in detention.The father was allowed to leave jail after his wife paid 5,000 euros ($5,650) in bail at the court in Ceuta.Francesco Luca Caronna, a member of the law firm acting for the family, said Tuesday that Ouattara remains charged with human rights abuse against a foreign citizen.“If he had known his son was to be brought in in a case he would never have allowed it,” said the lawyer. “He is a victim of migrant traffickers.”Ouattara must surrender his passport and appear before the court each month until the trial, which is not expected for several months.The father and mother live legally on the Spanish Canary Island of Fuerteventura and had been trying to bring over their children, according to Caronna. The lawyer said an 11-year-old daughter was allowed in recently but Ouattara’s monthly salary fell short of the amount required for two children. It was then that the father set about looking for a visa, Caronna said.Spanish authorities last month granted the boy a temporary residence permit.Copyright © The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Top Stories Sponsored Stories Milstead says best way to stop wrong-way incidents is driving sober Here’s how to repair and patch damaged drywall MADRID (AP) — The father of an Ivory Coast boy caught being smuggled into Spain in a suitcase last month has been freed on bail, allowing the family to be reunited.A court ordered Ali Ouattara freed Monday hours after his 8-year-old son was allowed leave a youth center where he was cared for after being discovered May 7 by border police in Spain’s North African enclave of Ceuta. The boy had been hidden in a suitcase carried by a Moroccan woman not related to the family. Ex-FBI agent details raid on Phoenix body donation facility Four benefits of having a wireless security system Arizona families, Arizona farms: A legacy of tradition embracing animal care and comfort through modern technology New Valley school lets students pick career-path academies
5day humanitarian ceasefire starts in Yemen
Here’s how to repair and patch damaged drywall Ex-FBI agent details raid on Phoenix body donation facility Top Stories New Valley school lets students pick career-path academies All the officials spoke anonymously because they are not authorized to brief reporters.Copyright © The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Security officials and residents of Sabr said the situation on the ground has quieted after the cease-fire took effect.The Yemeni troops fighting in Sabr had been training since April in military camps in al-Buraiqeh, the port city west of Aden, military officials from the Saudi-led coalition said. Saudi, Emirati, Egyptian and Jordanian military advisers there have set up the camps and trained hundreds of fighters, they added.The fighters also received over 300 armored personnel carriers from the United Arab Emirates by sea. These sophisticated carriers are largely driven by non-Yemenis, the military officials said. Two Emirati officers have been killed in battle in Yemen since the Saudi-led coalition’s latest offensive, known as the “Golden Arrow,” started on July 16.Al-Buraiqeh is also home to the Yemeni Fourth Military Base, which is in charge of all military operations in Aden.The foreign military advisers, officials said, arrived in al-Buraiqeh by sea more than a month ago and serve as intermediaries between the Yemeni troops and the coalition leadership in neighboring Saudi Arabia. They also supervise the distribution of weapons and give coordinates for coalition airstrikes, military officials said. Sponsored Stories Mesa family survives lightning strike to home Two previous humanitarian truces in Yemen did not hold.U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon welcomed the coalition’s announcement of the cease-fire and urged the Houthis and other parties to suspend military operations and “maintain the humanitarian pause for the sake of all the Yemeni people,” Ban’s spokesman said. Ban also urged all sides “to facilitate the delivery of humanitarian assistance to all parts of Yemen.”Earlier on Sunday, Saudi-backed Yemeni troops and their allies clashed with Houthi rebels in a strategic town north of the port city of Aden, security and military officials from both sides of the conflict said.The pro-government fighters had withdrawn from the town of Sabr earlier in the day after fierce battles with the Houthis. They returned hours later following the arrival of military reinforcements and wrested control of a large portion of the town, security officials said.The officials said five pro-government fighters were killed and 15 wounded in the battle. Local medical officials said eight rebels were killed and 20 wounded.The running battles in Sabr, which is on a key supply route, have lasted for more than a day after troops stormed it in their push north from Aden toward the strategic military base of Al-Anad, which is held by the rebels. SANAA, Yemen (AP) — Saudi-led coalition airstrikes came to a halt in Yemen early Monday after a five-day humanitarian truce went into effect, witnesses and security officials said.However, ground fighting broke out almost immediately in the restive city of Taiz following random shelling by Shiite Houthi rebels in three neighborhoods, they said.Security officials said ground fighting has also erupted in Marib province and in the area surrounding the strategic al-Anad military base in Lahj province. The difference between men and women when it comes to pain Random shelling by Houthis and their allies hit northern and western areas of the port city of Aden after the cease fire, security officials and witnesses said.The Saudi-led and U.S.-backed coalition of mainly Gulf Arab countries has been waging an air campaign since March against the Iran-supported rebels, who control most of northern Yemen and the capital, Sanaa.The pause declared by the Saudi-led coalition began at 11:59 p.m. (2059 GMT, 4:59 p.m. EDT) Sunday. It is intended to help allow humanitarian aid to be delivered to ease the suffering of civilians in the Arab world’s poorest country.The coalition made the unexpected announcement about the humanitarian pause on Saturday. The statement, carried on Saudi state media, said the coalition will cease military operations, but that it will respond should Houthi rebels or their allies conduct any military actions or movements.The rebels, known as Houthis, have expressed doubt over the truce. One Houthi official said it will likely mark “the beginning of a new war.” Mohammed Ali Al-Houthi, the head of the Houthi’s Revolutionary Council, said Sunday that the group had not received official notification of the truce from the United Nations. Comments Share Arizona families, Arizona farms: A legacy of tradition embracing animal care and comfort through modern technology 5 ways to recognize low testosterone
Rep Webber to meet with residents in Rochester Hills
State Rep. Michael Webber will host his monthly office hours on Monday, Oct. 30 from 9 to 10:30 a.m. at Grand Traverse Pie Company, 6920 N. Rochester Road in Rochester Hills.“Hosting regular office hours is one of my top priorities as a state legislator,” Rep. Webber said. “I look forward to hearing about the issues that are most important to residents of the Greater Rochester area.”No appointment is necessary. Those unable to attend may contact Rep. Webber at 517-373-1773 or via email at MichaelWebber@house.mi.gov. Categories: Webber News 23Oct Rep. Webber to meet with residents in Rochester Hills
Tedder seeks to improve endoflife care for Michigan patients
02Nov Tedder seeks to improve end-of-life care for Michigan patients A bill sponsored by state Rep. Jim Tedder to improve end-of-life care for patients in health care settings by developing a standardized Physician Ordered Scope of Treatment (POST) form was approved by the Michigan Senate.A POST form is an advance care planning tool designed to ensure people forced to make difficult end-of-life medical treatment choices are given the respect they deserve in multiple health care settings. The form guides emergency medical personnel and health care providers in whether to administer life-sustaining measures, such as CPR, intubation, antibiotics and feeding tubes, when the patient is no longer able to do so.“Everyone deserves to have their wishes granted when it comes to end-of-life care,” said Tedder, of Clarkston. “The POST form ensures that we give people a voice to do so, before they are no longer able.”The measure is part of a four-bill, bipartisan package to establish a standard practice for POST forms in Michigan. Twenty-two states have POST programs and 23 have developing programs in the works.Other bills in the package allow a guardian to implement, reaffirm of revoke a POST form, require adult foster care facilities to comply with medical orders provided for on a POST form, and requires health professionals to comply with the most recent document when both a DNR order and a POST form exist for a patient.The legislation now moves to the governor’s desk for his consideration.Questions about this legislation may be directed to Rep. Tedder at (517) 373-0615 or JimTedder@house.mi.gov. Categories: Tedder News
Tags: Health Policy 
Glenn bill bans use of tax dollars to pay sexual harassment claims
Categories: Glenn News Using taxpayer money to settle a sexual harassment claim against a state or local government official — as Congress did to settle a claim against former Congressman John Conyers, D-Detroit — would be outlawed under legislation introduced Wednesday by a Bay County lawmaker.Associate Speaker Pro Tem Gary Glenn, R-Williams Twp., the sponsor of House Bill 5405, said he was astounded by news of Conyers’ tax-financed payoff and “never imagined a law was necessary for the government to know it’s wrong to use our tax dollars to cover for a public official’s misconduct in office.”“A public official who’s guilty of sexual harassment can be pressured to resign as Conyers did, fired, recalled, or voted out at the next election if he refuses, or sued as an individual, but in no case should already overburdened taxpayers be forced to pay the tab for a public official’s abusive behavior,” Glenn said.Glenn’s legislation, other than language defining various terms, is comprised of just one sentence:“A public entity shall not make an expenditure of public funds to settle a claim or action involving sexual harassment in which a public official is the alleged perpetrator or defendant.”Glenn said any settlement in a case involving an elected or appointed public official should be paid “out of the guilty public official’s pocket, not taxpayers’ pockets.”He noted that the Washington Post reported in November that over the last twenty years, Congress has paid more than $17 million from public funds for 264 settlements and awards to federal employees for violations of various employment rules, including sexual harassment, an example he said the state should not follow.# # # 12Jan Glenn bill bans use of tax dollars to pay sexual harassment claims
Hopes for the DotNGO Designation
ShareTweetShareEmail0 SharesMay 22, 2014; Pro Bono AustraliaPublic Interest Registry, the American domain regulator responsible for the top-level .org domain suffix, is offering Australian nonprofits the chance to switch to an .ngo or .ong domain in October. (The latter is for use in regions where Romance languages are prevalent.) Currently, many Australian nonprofits use the suffix .org.au, which is administered by the same regulator.In addition to the distinctive .ngo, users will be listed in Public Interest Registry’s global NGO directory, and have access to a robust community portal. Via the portal, charities can customize profile pages, showcase their activities, and collect donations. Public Interest Registry is saying this will revolutionize the way that NGOs around the world connect with each other, with new partners, and potentially with donors as well. Although the portal will not take commission on donations, at this point it will be the e-commerce vehicle for donorsMegan Soffer, a marketing expert at Public Interest Registry who was quoted in the Australian online magazine for nonprofits Third Sector, said, “The NGO Portal will be a directory for NGOs. When donors are looking to give online, they want reassurance that both the website and cause are legitimate—this will be the easiest way for NGOs to communicate and demonstrate trust and credibility.” The ability to purchase premium domains like water.ngo and charity.ngo could also give an edge over competitors.Richenda Vermeulen, the director of ntegr!ty, a Melbourne-based digital agency, suggests in Pro Bono Australia that Australian nonprofits “start the conversation about .ngo and have a plan before the .ngo domain names are available from local domain providers in October.”Eligibility for obtaining an .ngo domain is based on seven criteria set by the Registry:Focused on acting in the public interest. Whether in support of education or health, the environment or human rights, members of the .ngo community work for the good of humankind and/or the preservation of the planet and do not promote discrimination or bigotry.Non-profitmaking/nonprofit-focused entities. While many NGOs engage in commercial activities or generate revenue in support of their missions, members of the .ngo community do not recognize profits or retain earnings.Limited government influence. Recognizing that many NGOs have important interactions with government, not least for reasons of funding (which may include receipt of some government funding in support of their programs), members of the .ngo community decide their own policies, direct their own activities and are independent of direct government or political control.Independent actors. Members of the .ngo community should not be political parties nor should be a part of any government. Participation in the work of an .ngo is voluntary.Active organizations. Members of the .ngo community are actively pursuing their missions on a regular basis.Structured. Members of the .ngo community, whether large or small, operate in a structured manner (e.g., under bylaws, codes of conduct, organizational standards, or other governance structures.)Lawful. Members of the .ngo community act with integrity within the bounds of law.It remains to be seen how many Australian nonprofits will react. NGO is an acronym usually reserved in the Australian vernacular for large multinational nonprofits or nonprofits operating overseas. Will the benefits of an exclusive portal and registry be sufficient to persuade nonprofits that do not consider themselves NGOs to abandon their already distinctive .org.au domains?—John GodfreyShareTweetShareEmail0 Shares
Gaza Flotilla Criminal Investigation Wont Proceed
ShareTweetShareEmail0 Shares November 6, 2014;Associated PressBack in 2010, Israel received backlash and heavy criticism for their actions imposing a naval blockade on the Gaza strip and a resultant deadly raid. In an attempt to break the blockade between Israel and Egypt, the Gaza Freedom Flotilla was organized to bring humanitarian aid and construction materials directly to Gaza. Organizers of the effort included the Free Gaza Movement and the Turkish Foundation for Human Rights and Freedoms and Humanitarian Relief (İHH). However, Israel choose to not accept the organizers’ motives and instead, offered to allow the goods to be received in an Israeli Port to be inspected prior to delivery by land to Gaza. The leaders of the Flotilla effort refused this offer andIsrael took the flotilla by force, resulting in nine deaths.Israel’s actions were said to constitute war crimes by supporters of the Flotilla and the International Criminal Court began an investigation to see if formal charges were warranted. In the end, Fatou Bensouda, the prosecutor leading the ICC process, announced his decision to end the proceedings in a statement issued recently, saying these cases “would not be of sufficient gravity to justify further action by the ICC”:“Following a thorough legal and factual analysis of the information available, I have concluded that there is a reasonable basis to believe that war crimes under the jurisdiction of the International Criminal Court were committed on one of the vessels, the Mavi Marmara, when Israeli Defense Forces intercepted the ‘Gaza Freedom Flotilla’ on 31 May 2010…. [However,] without in any way minimizing the impact of the alleged crimes on the victims and their families, I have to be guided by the Rome Statute, in accordance with which, the ICC shall prioritize war crimes committed on a large scale or pursuant to a plan or policy.”Reactions to this ruling mirrored the controversy about the Aid Flotilla. Turkish lawyer Ramazan Ariturk, who represents Comoros, under whose flag the Flotilla sailed in the case, said, “This is a moral struggle that we’re pursuing by ourselves. It’s a legal struggle, a struggle in the name of humanity. This struggle isn’t over,” he told reporters in Istanbul. “We will object to a higher court at the International Criminal Court and we believe without a doubt that we will prevail.”The Israel Foreign Ministry countered in its statement that “the examination conducted was preliminary only, and the prosecutor decided to close the file without seeing a need to address the issue of resort to self-defense by IDF soldiers who were confronted, as mentioned in the report, by violence from İHH activists in the context of a flotilla which the prosecutor considered as not constituting a humanitarian mission.”With the needs of the citizens of Gaza greater than ever in the wake of the recent hostilities, the challenge of bringing aid to Gaza remains before the international community. The recent weeks of heavy conflict heightened Israel’s desire to control the flow of aid. Israel’s fear that aid would be directed toward Hamas’s military requirements rather than meet the people’s needs was increased by the uncovering of a large network of well-built tunnels leading from Gaza into Israel during the months leading up to the Gaza conflict.—Marty Levine ShareTweetShareEmail0 Shares
LePages Flood of Money for Nonprofits Real or Magical Thinking
ShareTweetShareEmail0 Shares February 17, 2015; Portland Press HeraldGovernor Paul LePage and his tax and budget proposals for the state of Maine continue to draw a lot of attention. The NPQ Newswire has recently addressed the governor’s property tax proposal; the impact of the property tax on land trusts in the state and on nonprofit summer camps; and, most recently, the various unintended consequences of his property tax. Now, there is a new twist to consider: the appearance of a “flood of money” the governor says will be coming to nonprofits as an indirect result of his proposed income tax cuts. Will this flood of money be real or is it all just an illusion?It appears LePage is following the playbook used by many other Republican governors and endorsed by the Republican Governors’ Association and the Heritage Foundation. LePage is one of about a dozen Republican governors who are trying to reduce income tax rates while raising other taxes or generating revenue from other sources to balance their state budgets. Several of the GOP governors, including LePage, are using the “pathway to prosperity” language or concept to argue their case.Not every Republican governor is playing along though. According to the Heritage Foundation, Iowa’s Terry Branstad, Michigan’s Rick Snyder, and Nevada’s Brian Sandoval are cutting their own path. Branstad and Snyder are both pushing for gas-tax increases without any offsetting tax cuts. Sandoval is proposing to raise business taxes to cover a 12 percent increase in state spending.In Maine, though, LePage seems to be sprinting down the pathway. In the first town hall meeting of his new term on February 11th, LePage told a crowd in Westbrook, Maine, that he expects his plan will actually help nonprofits:“And there’s going to be all that money available from nonprofits to go and look for donations. And I maintain that the good nonprofits who do good for the community are recognized and there’s going to be a flood of money going to them.”How does LePage’s plan do this? Among other things, it lowers the income tax rate, requires nonprofits to pay property tax on property valued more than $500,000, and eliminates itemized deductions for charitable giving. It should be no surprise that several groans, perhaps of anguish and disbelief, could be heard from those in attendance in Westbrook, according to the Portland Press Herald.Despite the bounding optimism of LePage and other Republican’s governors, the pathway to prosperity may have more than a few potholes. One big one is the lack of evidence to support the LePage administration’s contention that deductions for charitable giving will not matter to donors. Jon Bakija, professor economics at Williams College in Williamstown, Massachusetts, published a study in 2013 that showed that high-income people are probably quite responsive to the opportunity for tax incentives. The Congressional Budget Office reported similar findings in a 2011 report:“Although the underlying motives for charitable giving are complex and not fully understood by economists, empirical studies generally find that taxpayers respond to the after-tax price of giving to some degree. Such tax incentives are limited, however, to the subset of taxpayers who itemize, and they favor high-income people, who face relatively higher marginal tax rates.”The CBO report highlights that tax deductions for charity is one way the government subsidizes charities. When a taxpayer in the 25-percent bracket donates a dollar to charity, his or her taxes are reduced by 25 cents. Therefore, both the charity and the donor benefit from the tax deduction.The evidence does not say with certainty that LePage’s plan will not work. However, Brian Galle of Boston College Law School asserts, “The evidence is generally contrary to what the governor is claiming.”At this point, there appears to be no rush for Maine’s nonprofits to prepare for a “flood of money.” It remains unclear how the Maine legislature will respond to LePage’s tax and budget plan. In the meantime, nonprofits in Vacationland will continue to try to figure whether the governor’s plans are real or mere trickery and illusion.—Tom KlausShareTweetShareEmail0 Shares
Pay TV operator Cosmos TV Belarus has added music
Pay TV operator Cosmos TV Belarus has added music channel Europe Plus TV to its line-up.The channel, a joint venture between Russia’s European Broadcasting Media Group and thematic channels distributor Red Media, airs pop and chart music videos and programming from Russian and European artists. The channel is beingadded to Cosmos TV’s basic package after 63% of subscribers said they wanted to watch the channel.