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2007-2008Global EconomyU.S. Politics / ElectionsWar / Militarism
Obama's Top Three Foreign Policy Priorities
by FPIF Senior Analysts November 7, 2008
written by FPIF Senior Analysts November 7, 2008
A Foreign Policy In Focus roundtable.
Published in Foreign Policy In Focus.
Foreign Policy In Focus asked our senior analysts to identify the foreign policy priorities of the new Obama administration. Here's what they said:
E. Ethelbert Miller
We now face the challenge of moving ahead of history.
1. We need to help end the conflicts in the Middle East. This means taking a leadership role in ending the wars, and finding more arm and leg room for diplomacy.
2. We need a new foreign policy that will help neighbors like Haiti and Cuba.
3. Can we now make Africa a priority? Yes we can! Yes we should.
Mark Engler
In terms of momentous changes that the Obama administration might undertake in its first 100 days, I am more optimistic for the potential of a sweeping shift on the domestic front than in foreign affairs. Moving forward with labor law reform, a serious national healthcare program, a response to the financial crisis that goes beyond Wall Street to create living-wage jobs, and an investment in public infrastructure are each politically plausible. And are all far-reaching in their impact.
Changes in foreign policy are often less about grand declarations than they are about alterations in tone, outlook, and priorities. This is a cumulative process. However, in the immediate term there are several swift, decisive acts that Obama could take, each of which would signal a broader change. Three of my top picks would be:
1. Close Guantánamo and commence a withdrawal from Iraq.
2. Declare a moratorium on new "free-trade" deals.
3. Show renewed commitment to progressive multilateralism by adopting a treaty that the United States has previously stonewalled — on climate change, arms control, international law, or all of the above.
Antonia Juhasz
Under the rubric of the Global War on Terror, the Bush administration has implemented the greatest realignment of U.S. forces since the end of the Cold War. One needs only look at a map showing Big Oil's overseas operations, the world's remaining oil reserves, and the oil transport routes to track the realignment. The president-elect should take the enormous goodwill he has throughout the world and lead the world by example, by making diplomacy, cooperation, negotiation, and international law — not war — the center of our international energy plan.
1. President-Elect Obama should renounce and undo the use of the U.S. military as an oil-protective force, beginning with immediately, unequivocally, and fully ending the Iraq War. This includes renouncing the Bush administration's pursuit of a new national oil law in Iraq that would "win" the war for U.S. oil interests by transforming Iraq's oil industry from a nationalized to a privatized model. The president-elect should also renounce the disastrously failed notion that there is a military solution to all of our problems. The wars in Iraq and Afghanistan have only served to intensify American insecurity. The solution, therefore, is clearly not more of the same. President-Elect Obama should end both military engagements in Iraq and Afghanistan and pursue a diplomatic, negotiated, and international law-based approach to both nations.
2. The president-elect should also reverse the Bush administration's creation and implementation of a new centralized military authority for Africa — the U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), the primary focus of which is securing U.S. oil operations on that continent through military means.
3. Big Oil has guided public policy down a disastrous road, standing as an obstacle to the fulfillment of critical global social movements against war, a failing economy, and global warming. President-Elect Obama should therefore use every tool available to rein in this industry and enable us to kick the oil habit once and for all. He should reintroduce regulation, enforcement, and taxation of this industry a vital heart of his administration. This includes fully and finally closing the "Enron loophole" and considering whether it is appropriate to trade a good as fundamental as crude on futures exchanges. Rather than "cap-and-trade" pollution, Obama should ban it through regulation. His administration needs to eliminate industry subsidies, collect royalties, implement a windfall-profits tax, increase gasoline taxes, and increase corporate taxation broadly to help Americans reduce consumption of all oil products. This money could be used to fund a massive public works program (à la the Works Project Administration) in clean sustainable local public transportation and to fund local sustainable green energy alternatives.
Michael Shank
1. Reinvigorate a "talk first" policy when dealing with adversaries, reversing the previous administration's precedent of preemption first. This new policy must be visible with Iran, North Korea, Russia, Venezuela, etc.
2. Reprioritize economic development in dealing with adversaries. Obama bought into the counter-terrorism rhetoric early so it may be hard to reverse this, but economic development must have a more sizeable seat at the table when shaping policies vis-à-vis Afghanistan, Iraq, and Pakistan.
3. Reaffirm the status and strength of global institutions and treaties. Bush essentially disemboweled the UN, the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, the International Criminal Court, and others — Obama can and should restore U.S. support for them.
Christine Ahn
1. Complete and immediate withdrawal of troops from Iraq. We need to get beyond the mythology that the violent attacks are against Sunnis or Shiites — they are predominantly and overwhelmingly against U.S. occupying forces and collaborating Iraqi military police. And while leaving is of utmost importance, one way to ameliorate the over 100,000 civilians killed, Iraqi infrastructure destroyed, and historic treasures pillaged is to set up a reparations and peace-building fund. Half of this would be derived from the U.S. Treasury, the other half from corporations whose agenda was to go into Iraq and who have profited handsomely from the occupation.
2. Sign a peace treaty with North Korea. Removing the DPRK from the terrorist list is one small step, but economic sanctions and hostility drive relations between North Korea and the United States. Not only has North Korea signaled for decades its desire to have normalized peaceful relations with the United States, peaceful negotiations have been taking place between North and South Korea, a peninsula that was divided by the United States 60 years ago. Ongoing hostility with North Korea not only stands in the way of North Korea's economic development and human rights, it fuels growing militarism on the Korean peninsula, which is closing civil society space in the north and south, emboldening hawks on both sides, and sparking a new arms race in Northeast Asia.
3. Redefine global trade treaties away from the neoliberal model of deregulation, privatization, and exploitation of people and natural resources towards a people's centered approach to development that prioritizes equity over growth, ecological sustainability and biodiversity. Global warming and the rapidly declining natural resources we all depend on for our survival require a new global trade system that values local production and economies, minimizes the massive transport of food that now travels over 1,500 miles from farm to plate, and forces the migration of millions of displaced people from rural areas to crowded urban centers. This was the model of the 20th century, and the financial and food crises are clear signs that we need a different 21st-century approach.
Obama's first priority should be to keep the United States and the world from tumbling into catastrophic recession. This is not just an economic issue. The experience of the 1930s demonstrates that financial instability has political and military repercussions as well.
1. The first direct foreign policy priority has to be addressing the recent dire perception of the United States worldwide with not only a change of tone and approach but a willingness to abide by the rules it preaches to others. Almost all the other priorities flow from this principle, which is also the base for effective resolution of the multitude of specific geopolitical problems on his agenda. One gesture that would emphasize this priority would be the immediate closure of the internment camp in Guantánamo and judicial review of its prisoners.
Armed with a new congressional majority, the new administration should then begin a new relationship with the UN. It could ensure that the UN dues are paid and lock in the payment on a long-term basis. As part of the same process it should move to ratify some of the backlog of international conventions held up by conservative opposition, such as the International Law of the Sea, the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty, the International Criminal Court, and conventions on landmines and child soldiers. His commitment to combating the causes and effects of climate change may help there. With these renewed bona fides it would make it much easier to build an international consensus, for example in Africa on Darfur, where Republican Party incompetence converted African states to willing bystanders to mass murder, or in Latin America, where Bush belligerence toward elected governments built a tacit anti-U.S. alliance.
2. The second priority, which he has already committed to, is active diplomatic engagement with other states. That shouldn't entail pandering to dictatorships but does commit to realistic and hardnosed negotiations, predominantly with the Middle East. AIPAC and the Likudniks overwhelmingly supported McCain, while 77% of American Jews voted for Obama. He owes nothing to the settlers and Netanyahu, and he could assist Israelis who want peace by setting firm conditions for progress. U.S. guarantees of agreed frontiers, based on UN Resolution 242, and reduction of money spent on settlement activity would be a start.
3. Thirdly is the question of military involvement and disarmament. It does not involve total disarmament or adoption of a neo-Gandhian stance. Nevertheless, a commitment to make war the last, rather than first, resort, combined with genuine mutual disarmament initiatives would go a long way. Halting the Star Wars program, a serious case of orbiting pork barrels, would be a good start on rebuilding relations with Russia. This would free up billions of dollars for domestic priorities, as would, of course, accelerated withdrawal from Iraq.
1. Declare "the war on terror" over and convene an international conference on enhancing international law enforcement activities against and prosecution of terrorists. Concurrently, prepare to pull foreign forces from Iraq.
2. Appoint a special envoy to the greater Middle East, and sub-regional envoys for Afghanistan-Pakistan, Syria-Lebanon-Palestine, and the Gulf States (including Iran) to coordinate a region-wide U.S. approach to development that is responsive to reducing sustainable development shortfalls.
3. Reaffirm U.S. commitment to international laws, treaties, the United Nations, and multilateral responses to violations of international peace. When in negotiations with actual or potential adversaries, make it clear that "all options are on the table" in outlining possible outcomes.
Adil Shamoo
1. Set a new tone in foreign policy based on soft power rather than use of military power, with an emphasis on promoting economic, technological, and educational progress. This policy should be combined with using the UN. The use of power should remain an option, but only to be used in imminent danger with UN support.
2. Carry out an orderly withdrawal from Iraq, forge a plan for its reconstruction, and create new reconstruction-based plans for Pakistan and Afghanistan.
3. Hold negotiations with Iran regarding nuclear technology that work toward improving relations.
Stephen Zunes
1. Work for a comprehensive nonproliferation policy that includes extending the world's Nuclear Weapons Free Zones to the Middle East and South Asia, and fulfills the obligations under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty of the United States and other existing nuclear weapons states.
2. Get serious about establishing multilateral agreements restricting the global arms trade and, in the meantime, conditioning all U.S. arms transfers to strict criteria regarding the recipient country's record of adherence to international humanitarian law.
3. Put priority on the Israeli-Palestinian process, pushing for a sustainable peace agreement along the lines of the 2003 Geneva Initiative. The United States must demonstrate a willingness to place necessary pressure on both parties to make it happen.
Since many others have stated the obvious (e.g., end the war, reaffirm support for multilateralism) let me throw out a few others:
1. Shut down the financial casino: Work with other leaders to develop a new international regulatory architecture under the United Nations, aimed at preventing future financial crises and protecting the interests of workers, small farmers, consumers, and the environment. Some first steps should be to regulate derivatives, shut down tax havens, and apply a speculation tax on international transactions.
2. No more FTAs: I second Mark Engler's call for a moratorium on new free-trade agreements. And the financial deregulation rules in current trade agreements should now be so embarrassing that they could be used as a lever to open these deals up for significant renegotiation, as Obama promised on the campaign trail.
3. Alternatives to a wall: Make a speech in front of the wall along the U.S.-Mexico border, that ugly symbol of the divisions between the United States and Latin America, laying out a long-term vision for getting rid of it by reducing the economic inequalities that drive migration.
—Christine Ahn is a policy analyst with the Korea Policy Institute.
—Sarah Anderson directs the Global Economy Project at the Institute for Policy Studies in Washington and is the co-author of Field Guide to the Global Economy (New Press, 2005).
—Mark Engler is the author of How to Rule the World: The Coming Battle Over the Global Economy (Nation Books, 2008).
—Antonia Juhasz is the author of The Tyranny of Oil: the World's Most Powerful Industry, and What We Must Do To Stop It (William Morrow 2008).
—E. Ethelbert Miller is an award-winning poet, the director of the African American Resource Center at Howard University, and the board chairperson of the Institute for Policy Studies.
—Adil E. Shamoo is an Iraqi American and a professor at the University of Maryland School of Medicine.
—Michael Shank is the communications director for the Institute for Conflict Analysis and Resolution at George Mason University.
—Colonel. Daniel Smith, U.S. Army (Ret.) is a retired U.S. Army colonel, and a senior fellow on military affairs at the Friends Committee on National Legislation.
—Ian Williams's work is available on www.deadlinepundit.blogspot.com.
—Stephen Zunes is a a professor of politics at the University of San Francisco.
They are all senior analysts at Foreign Policy In Focus.
FPIF Senior Analysts
—Christine Ahn is a policy analyst with the Korea Policy Institute. —Sarah Anderson directs the Global Economy Project at the Institute for Policy Studies in Washington and is the co-author of Field Guide to the Global Economy (New Press, 2005). —Mark Engler is the author of How to Rule the World: The Coming Battle Over the Global Economy (Nation Books, 2008). —Antonia Juhasz is the author of The Tyranny of Oil: the World's Most Powerful Industry, and What We Must Do To Stop It (William Morrow 2008). —E. Ethelbert Miller is an award-winning poet, the director of the African American Resource Center at Howard University, and the board chairperson of the Institute for Policy Studies. —Adil E. Shamoo is an Iraqi American and a professor at the University of Maryland School of Medicine. —Michael Shank is the communications director for the Institute for Conflict Analysis and Resolution at George Mason University. —Colonel. Daniel Smith, U.S. Army (Ret.) is a retired U.S. Army colonel, and a senior fellow on military affairs at the Friends Committee on National Legislation. —Ian Williams's work is available on www.deadlinepundit.blogspot.com. —Stephen Zunes is a a professor of politics at the University of San Francisco. They are all senior analysts at Foreign Policy In Focus.
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Dr. Christina Marra completed residency training in Neurology and fellowship training in Infectious Diseases at the University of Washington, in Seattle, Washington, USA. She is Professor and Vice Chair for Academic Affairs in Neurology, and she has an adjunct appointment in Medicine (Infectious Diseases), at the University of Washington.Dr. Marra directs a US National Institute of Health-funded clinical and translational research program on factors that influence the clinical course of syphilis, with a particular focus on HIV and on neurosyphilis. She received the American Sexually Transmitted Diseases Association Achievement Award in 2014 for work in this area. She also participates in multi-center clinical research on the neurological consequences of HIV, and she provides general neurological care in inpatient and outpatient settings, including a multispecialty HIV clinic.


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The Circle System:
Structuring for Collective Wisdom
Structuring for Collective Wisdom
By Jim Rough
Most people think of only two possibilities for organizing society: Autocracy or "democracy." We call them the Triangle System or the Box System. But while these Systems cannot work into the future probably most people imagine a third Circle System they would like to live in. Only, they don't think it's possible. It doesn't really have another name, maybe "true democracy" or what we call "Wise Democracy."
As the Monster Problems of society get worse— e.g. the climate crisis, the partisan divide, species extinction and the L-curve distribution of wealth—it's becoming more popular to question the viability of our current system of "democracy." In fact one of the political parties in the U.S. seems to be shifting away from adhering to the Constitution, inclusive voting, the rule-of-law, and seeking a return to autocracy, where loyalty to the "Perpetual Leader" supersedes these Box values.
The problem is that the situation of our Society has changed. Given that our global society has reached and exceeded the carrying capacity of planet Earth, neither the Triangle System nor the Box System are viable. And one might even say that the Box and Triangle Systems are causing the Monster Problems. Particularly the Box System is oriented to individual freedom, where each person or corporate entity is free to "pursue happiness" within the laws, with little regard to the Public Interest. Our new situation demands that this must change. To go forward we must transition to the Circle System, where everyone . is involved and voluntarily supports the Public Interest. And because of the social innovations presented here, this should be straightforward to accomplish.
Given that the carrying capacity of our Planet has been exceeded, one might say that the Box System is causing the Monster Problems of our society. Our Box System, for instance, assumes that we can all act independently in pursuit of happiness (i.e. profits). And collective decisions amount to a set of individual judgments or votes. And adding them up to see what is the collective decision. No! This can't work.
Actually what's required in this new situation is a whole-system meeting process, where we all think creatively and collaboratively. And where everyone gets on board. We must ... and of course this seems impossible given our current Box System of thinking ... all be involved in one global conversation! ... face these problems and reach unity about what to do!. In this new situation, majority rule isn't enough. Our system of governance must involve a whole-system conversation that is creative and collaborative. And our system of economics can't continue as unbridled capitalism either. The necessary collective thinking process would naturally generate "conscious capitalism".
thinking Our system is missing the whole idea of thinking. There is no collective thinking process other than a power struggle among self-interested parties that often gets stuck in partisan paralysis. And the Box System structures us into a thinking process that is little better than an argument. Back and forth with agreeing and disagreeing over inadequate options that are ultimately coercive. There's no "let's see if we can't figure this out creatively together and come up with a breakthrough". There's no "let's all work together on making this happen." In our Box System there's no real possibility of reaching about what is truth or what WE want to do.
Three Systems of Organizing
There are three fundamentally different ways to structure our human society: 1) the Triangle, based on hierarchy and positional authority where one leader is ultimately in charge. Where loyalty is paramount and free speech and voting are disappear. 2) the Box, where a prescribed Social Contract like the U.S. Constitution is ultimately in charge; and 3) the Circle, where the ultimate authority is a conversation of everyone seeking what's best for all. ... At heart, most people desire the Circle System, where all the people evolve common understandings of what's going on, a shared vision what we want and where people are free to employ their best talents and skills toward achieving these desired results. But the Circle is generally assumed to be impossible, at least at the level of society.
Each of the three Systems has a different structure, promotes a different attitude in people, requires different leadership competencies, generates different results and spark a fundamentally different kind of conversation.
The Triangle works well for hierarchical organizations with charismatic leaders. The collective intelligence of the organization is limited by the intelligence and knowledge of the leader. People in the organization contribute to the shared cause, but hold back on giving their full potential. They know their place is to support the people of higher status.
The Box System is when the social contract is in charge, not some ultimate leader. This works well if the rules are clear and fair, and fairly enforced. Ideally, there is an objective way to keep score like money. Then it's like a game, a competition-based system, which encourages the pursuit of self-interest in persons, branches of government and among organizations. The Box System is missing a conversation, where we seek what's best for all. Basically, it assumes that the best results will arise automatically from the competition. And this only can happen if the competitors are independent, not interdependent like we have today.
Seemingly the Circle is best for unions, cooperatives, membership organizations, and democracies, where whole system benefit is consciously sought. But in practice, these organizations are often rigid Boxes or even Triangles because the Circle has proven difficult to achieve. Surprisingly small corporations are often most capable of achieving a Circle but as they grow to become publicly traded, they revert to the Box or Triangle.
The nation is structured to be a Box System, where we are ultimately governed by a constitution. This can only work as long as we remain independent. As we become increasingly inter-dependent our reliance on competition generates collective stupidity instead of intelligence. Then the collective well-being is hurt if people continue to focus on maximizing self-interest. We must shift to the Circle System. And when we do, many of our most difficult societal issues will just go away..
Three conversations
Each of the three Systems generates a different kind of conversation. The Triangle teaches deference to the leader. People learn to suppress their own ideas and enthusiasm in favor of what the leader thinks and feels. The conversation revolves around who is speaking and their status rather than the merit of their ideas. To make a difference in this organization one must gain status.
The Box system, like a game, limits people's attention to the score and to strategies for winning. We don't look outside the Box. We aren't expected to feel or to stop and determine what we really care about. Like within a game we get absorbed in the competitive play and focus on winning. Ideally, the Box conversation is like what happens in a time out—analyzing the situation, defining the problem, deliberating on which ideas are best, and making quick decisions based on good data. But in practice, because our feelings are suppressed, a more usual conversation is an argument or a competitive agree/disagree discussion.
The Circle system requires a particular form of conversation called "choice-creating," where people drop their roles and become authentic, face the important issues collaboratively and creatively, and reach shared perspectives. Choice-creating often happens naturally when people face a crisis. Then real change can happen because people let go of their denial, roles, status and rules and look at the situation realistically and creatively. In the spirit of choice-creating, people can achieve miracles, often redefining the problem and themselves in the process. After the crisis is over, however, the spirit of mutual respect, creativity and community is difficult to maintain. So the organization slides back to the Box.
People want to think that the Circle system can be achieved with good leadership, highly conscious people, the right rules, or better communication. These are all part of the answer. But the essential ingredient for transforming our society from Box System to the Circle System, which we must do, is to elicit and sustain the choice-creating conversation. Then people are authentic, talk about the real issues and work together creatively to solve them. There are two social innovations that make this possible, safe, and accessible: 1) Dynamic Facilitation and 2) the Wisdom Council.
Dynamic Facilitation
Dynamic Facilitation (DF) is a new approach to facilitating, which is guided by people's feelings and emotions more than by an agenda. Using DF choice-creating is the natural result. And this allows people to achieve breakthrough progress on impossible-seeming or conflicted issues and determine win/win solutions. Instead of limiting people to what is possible, to preset guidelines, or to an agenda, the dynamic facilitator welcomes each person to just speak naturally. It's up to the DF'er to assure choice-creating.
She uses four charts to do this—Solutions, Data, Concerns, and Problem-Statements. So for example, if a participant starts to disagree with a point someone is making, the DF'er invites that person to direct his comment to her, rather than to the person with whom he is disagreeing. Then she records the comment as a concern to be added to the list of Concerns, and invites the person to offer his answer. "So what might be an even better solution?" This answer is then added to the list of Solutions.
Notice in this approach, no one feels judged. There is no agreeing or disagreeing. Instead, each point is valued as piece of the puzzle and people grow in curiosity and creativity to solve it. Shifts and breakthroughs naturally result.
I once had the opportunity to dynamically facilitate a weekly meeting among angry and frustrated employees in a sawmill. Over time they achieved the spirit of choice-creating. Productivity and quality took off! The energy of their frustration turned into the energy of community and creativity. Just by participating in a weekly hour-long meeting these mill workers became more cooperative, curious, informed, and observant. They understood more, trusted more, risked more, and achieved more, inventing new solutions to seemingly impossible problems. They transformed the culture of the mill and the management system as well.
The Wisdom Council
Facilitating this bottom-up transformation experience led me to hypothesize a strategy by which we as a society could transform ourselves from the Box System to the Circle System. In 2002 I wrote a book about it called, Society's Breakthrough! Releasing Essential Wisdom and Virtue in All the People, describing how Dynamic Facilitation could be leveraged to include all citizens and to facilitate them to come together as a powerful "We the People." Now, many years later there have been a number of experiments with the Wisdom Council in organizations, cities and even states, demonstrating that this suggested breakthrough strategy works. Implementing it can solve many impossible-seeming public issues of society like the partisan gridlock, the national debt, the environmental crisis, poverty, wars, etc.
In the Wisdom Council, every four months twelve or so people are randomly selected as a microcosm of all the people. Each small group meets for a couple of days with a dynamic facilitator. They choose an important issue or are given an issue and reach exciting win/win conclusions through shifts and breakthroughs. The Wisdom Council then presents these conclusions and the story of how they were developed to everyone. Then all people are invited to talk face-to-face in small groups, or over the telephone or via the Internet. Those that hear the story generally concur with the Wisdom Council. They essentially say, "I think so too!"
Largely because of the spirit of choice-creating people in the greater audience feel involved and support both the process and results. If one person differs with the Wisdom Council conclusions, others are interested to know why. They listen carefully and seek ways to incorporate this divergent view. In this Circle process different perspectives are valued because they can lead to breakthroughs and group unity.
At one elementary school in Steyr, Austria a short Wisdom Council Process among parents, administrators and teachers was convened. This new conversation generated more volunteers, a greater understanding of school issues, demonstrated support for the faculty and administration and led to community project, where all helped paint the school.
Three ordinary citizens in Ashland, Oregon experimented with just one Wisdom Council in their county. They arranged for a randomly selected group of registered voters to come together for a day and a half and be dynamically facilitated. The Wisdom Council presented its conclusions to a gathering of the community. The council said that "We the People" need to awaken from our slumber, take charge of our society, make politicians more accountable, and start implementing common-sense policies, like adequately funding education. It was just a one-time experiment but important developments resulted. A number of citizens said that the experience was life changing to them and began a citizens' movement that rewrote the town charter.
The Department of Agriculture of Washington State initiated a Wisdom Council Process within one division. One of the first Councils lamented that their division no longer had the spirit of community it once had. From that one meeting they found themselves reconnecting with one another and their mission. Later the process was expanded to include the whole department, where employees exclaimed that they had finally "bridged the Cascade Mountain Barrier," which had always kept the agency in two separate cultures.
The Triangle, Box and Circle are three fundamental ways to organize a system. The Triangle is where someone is in charge; the Box is where a system is in charge; and the Circle is where a choice-creating conversation of all is in charge. Throughout history the Circle has been most desirable and most beneficial, but also most unattainable. Now our organizations and society are becoming increasingly interdependent in a way that neither the Box nor the Triangle can manage. We must shift to the Circle.
Key to making this shift resides in our ability to facilitate a whole-system choice-creating conversation, where we all face the problems and creatively seek a strategy that works for everyone. Dynamic Facilitation can assure this quality of thinking in small groups. The Wisdom Council Process uses Dynamic Facilitation to evoke the needed conversation in large systems. Using this process at different levels — globally, nationally and regionally— it's possible to safely organize ourselves in the Circle dynamic. And in this way it's possible to achieve rapid, breakthrough progress on our most pressing issues.
These ideas were first developed in the book Society's Breakthrough! Releasing Essential Wisdom and Virtue in All the People by Jim Rough.


As a person who's been brought on electronic music from day dot, not able play an instrument or to read sheet music two incidents of the last weeks made me think about different ways of approaching music production, especially electronic music production as this is the field I work in when doing music.
First incident happened when I was in the studio of Herr Brandt of Sonnenbrandt-/ The Convent-fame which is packed with loads of analogue and midi gear - working on ideas for a specific project he was playing a bassline on one of the synths and thinking about how he once learned harmonics and how all these tones work together theoretically. While doing that I - neither trained in harmonics nor in the use of a fingerboard - was fooling around with another synth, not a fixed idea in mind but sth. vague I'd like to add to this bassline, just trusting my ears and surely breaking all harmonic rules but suddenly it worked out and everything was fine.
Incident two happened last friday, working on a remix with The Crystal Apes - the original song was sth. like 120 bpm but we sped the parts up to 152 bpm which changed not only the sound of the original vocal parts but the whole harmonic structure which is understood. Tintin, the bands vocalist, recognized some dissonant sounds in the used string and orchestra samples and was willing to correct those but not able to as she would've needed somewhat like a third of fifth part of a note and was quite surprised as I told her that harmonics and tonality are not necessarily important in electronic music as long as the tracks as a whole works out right.
I know that some ppl even are making a fuzz about doing their DJ-sets like what they call "mixing in key" but is electronic music really about that? Having a look at the roots of the electronic music scene composers and producers were trying to create something new which is based on noises, found sounds, samples, a new experimental way of aural excitement, sound to please not only ears and brain but also the body if cranked up to a high level - I'm talking club or rave level here -, non-music to many who experienced these new world for the first time. These sonic worlds have been explored for decades now but still we have seen - or heard - only a small percentage of what is possible, we should still be curious about what might be happening next instead of trying to follow old formulas although these basics are useful in their own right. We've left tonality and harmonics behind, now we should be ready to explore what's way beyond.


MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) – Authorities in the south metro are asking the public's help in identifying a man who robbed a bank last month and made no attempt to hide his appearance.
The Lakeville Police Department says the robbery happened on Dec. 22 at the New Market Bank on Icenic Trail in Lakeville.
The man pulled out a handgun and demanded cash from the teller. He was not wearing a mask.
Police say the man wore a tan work-style jacket, a scarf and knit hat with a small brim. He is described as standing around 6-feet tall with a slim, athletic build.
Anyone with information on the suspect is asked to call Lakeville investigators at 952-985-2800.


Home » Who is the Best Criminal Lawyer in Montgomery County?
The best DUI lawyer in Montgomery County, PA, is the one who has the knowledge and experience to handle your case and the characteristics that are most likely to ensure a positive outcome for your future. If you are in search of a DUI lawyer, you or a loved one likely needs legal assistance for drunk driving charges in Pennsylvania.
Finding the best DUI lawyer to handle your case makes good sense, as it will provide you with the best possible results. A DUI conviction typically means time behind bars, a huge monetary fine, and the loss of your driver's license. Worse, you will have a permanent criminal record that may prevent you from getting a job, renting a home, or finding affordable car insurance.
The right DUI attorney will protect your legal rights, answer all your questions, and explain your options fully, so that you can make informed choices for your future.
What Are the Characteristics of the Best DUI Lawyers in Montgomery County?
The characteristics that make for a great DUI lawyer include having critical knowledge, relevant experience, and a willingness to communicate with you regularly. What sets a great attorney apart from a good one, however, is the tenacity to fight tirelessly on your behalf to achieve the best outcome for you.
Although a new lawyer may have all the necessary legal knowledge, one with years in practice will also have critical experience in successfully defending Pennsylvania DUI clients. Look for an attorney who specializes in criminal defense and DUI-related crimes. If possible, look for a DUI lawyer who has worked on the other side of the table. A defense attorney who previously worked as prosecutor will have inside knowledge of how the process works, which will help them get the job done for you.
While facing DUI charges, you understandably fear for your future. A conviction can disrupt or destroy your life, preventing you from getting a job or driving to handle the important tasks of everyday life. You naturally want an attorney who will communicate with you regularly and proactively, keeping you apprised of the status of your case.
For the best protection of your legal rights, you need an attorney who will take an aggressive stance in defending you against DUI charges in Montgomery County. When prosecutors realize that you and your lawyer seriously intend to challenge the charges pending against you, they may adopt a more amenable stance to negotiating a plea agreement in your case or even dismissing the charges completely.
Client Reviews Are a Good Source of Information About Your DUI Lawyer.
You can learn a lot about a DUI lawyer by what clients have to say. This is where consumer reviews can come in handy—especially verified reviews.
Google provides an excellent source of customer reviews. However, for more legal-specific recommendations, you can explore a variety of online attorney rating sites.
Another way to identify the best DUI lawyer in Montgomery County is to check out an attorney's awards, designations, and acknowledgments. Peer reviews carry a high level of credence, as do past client testimonials.
What Else Should I Look for in a DUI Lawyer?
After checking out a potential attorney's qualifications and reviews, visit his or her website to see how much valuable information they provide. The best attorneys will provide helpful videos, FAQs, and informative blog posts to help you learn more about the law. An informed client is an empowered client. The best lawyers will want to help you learn and understand the charges you face.
Meet David C. McKenzie III, DUI Lawyer in Montgomery County, PA.
Attorney David C. McKenzie III, founder and partner of the McKenzie Law Firm, P.C., has the experience and qualifications you need to protect your legal rights when facing Pennsylvania DUI charges.
Some of the highlights of David's background include working in the District Attorney's (DA) office in Dauphin County, serving as the Assistant District Attorney (ADA) for many years. As ADA, David learned first-hand how the criminal prosecution process works.
David prosecuted both adult and juvenile criminals. This taught him the fine art of preparing and presenting cases and negotiating a final resolution. Today, David applies that insider knowledge for the benefit of his DUI clients in Montgomery County.
In response to David's achievement in private practice, he is the recipient of numerous awards and acknowledgments, as well as exceptional ratings from his clients and peers in the legal community.
Here are just a few of David's many achievements.
The American Institute of DUI/DWI Attorneys named David one of the 10 Best Attorneys for Client Satisfaction in Pennsylvania.
The American Society of Legal Advocates named David one of the Top 40 Lawyers.
The Martindale-Hubbell Peer Review Ratings are one of the most coveted acknowledgments in the legal profession, as they represent the acknowledgement of other attorneys. These ratings allow lawyers to rate each other based on legal knowledge, experience, and ethics. David has repeatedly earned the highest possible designation.
The National Trial Lawyers awarded David their Top 40 under 40 award.
AVVO, the leading online legal resource in the U.S., gives David their highest rating and named him a top DUI attorney in Pennsylvania. With more than 70 client reviews recorded to date, David continues to have a 5-star rating on AVVO.
The McKenzie Law Firm, P.C. also has a 5-star rating on Google.
Hire a DUI Lawyer in Montgomery County Who Cares About You.
Clients agree that David's depth of knowledge and experience—as well as his exceptional communication skills—made the difference in their case. If you are facing DUI charges, you need his expertise on your side.
The team at the McKenzie Law Firm, P.C., is proud to provide professional, compassionate legal representation for clients facing DUI charges in Montgomery County. We offer free consultations and case reviews to help you make the right decision. Give us a call today at 610-680-7842.


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HOME / People / Scott Flow, Esq.
SCOTT FLOW, ESQ.
Fee Attorney
Representing: Flow Law Firm
E: fsflow@flowlaw.com
Scott opened Flow Law Firm in March, 2003, and has consistently engaged in the private practice of law, focusing much of his practice in the areas of Commercial and Residential Real Estate, Banking, and Small Business. Scott serves a variety of clients, and has a long-running relationship with Chicago Title, serving as a fee attorney for commercial and residential real estate transactions.
Scott began his legal career during the turbulent early 1990's representing entities that were purchasing distressed assets from the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) and the Resolution Trust Corporation (RTC). Since then, Scott has developed an extensive real estate practice, from closings to documentation to litigation, has represented numerous regional and national financial institutions (including three Fortune 500 companies) in the areas of operations, commercial and consumer litigation, work-outs, foreclosures, bankruptcies, lending, documentation, and originations, and has represented many other regional business entities from conception, through litigation, and general day-to-day operations. In addition to his 23+ years of legal experience, Scott has diverse executive and managerial experiences that enhance the delivery of services to his clients – owning, operating, and/or managing a real estate investments firm, an automobile dealership, and a manufacturing operation.
❝ My goal has always been to provide exceptional legal advice and service to my clients; my relationship with Chicago Title enhances the delivery of those services. I am excited and honored to be a part of the fabulous Amarillo Chicago Title Team.❞
Scott graduated in 1988 from Lubbock Christian University, where he later served as a University Trustee for 12 years. Scott earned his Juris Doctor in 1992 from Baylor University School of Law. Flow is now a Trustee of the Board of Trustees of Amarillo Independent School District, and further serves the Amarillo community through his service on the Board of the City of Amarillo Tax Increment Reinvestments Zone #1 (TIRZ).
Scott grew up in Austin, Texas; however, his home is Amarillo, where he lives with his wife of over 27 years, Brenda. Scott and Brenda are the proud parents of three children, Cassidy, Chelsea, and Colby.
MORE ABOUT SCOTT
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Today Drambuies unique complex taste is great served neat, over ice, or why not try as a refreshing long drink. Poured over ice, topped up with ginger ale, or soda.
TODAY DRAMBUIE'S UNIQUE COMPLEX TASTE IS GREAT SERVED NEAT, OVER ICE, OR WHY NOT TRY AS A REFRESHING LONG DRINK, POURED OVER ICE, TOPPED UP WITH GINGER ALE, OR SODA. SQUEEZE IN 2 FRESH WEDGES OF LIME, STIR WELL AND ENJOY.
Warming whisky liqueur. Love it.


WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-01), Ranking Member of the Seapower and Projection Forces Subcommittee, commended the Navy on officially signing the contract for CVN 80 and 81, the next two Gerald R. Ford-class aircraft carriers. Congressman Wittman led the charge for this provision.
Congressman Wittman's amendment to the Defense Appropriations Act stripped the limiting language of "CVN-80" from the text which now allows funding to both CVN-80 and CVN-81. This amendment was adopted by voice vote.
In December 2017, Wittman led an effort in the House, with the support of 130 Members, encouraging Defense Secretary James Mattis to implement the block buy that was announced today. Congressman Wittman was also the author of the "Securing the Homeland by Increasing our Power on the Seas (SHIPS) Act," which made it the official policy of the United States to achieve the Navy's requirement of 355 ships. President Trump signed the bill into law in 2017.


text:
import os
import argparse
import configparser
import logging
import sys
import logging
import subprocess
from datetime import datetime
from pathlib import Path
from Pegasus.api import *

logging.basicConfig(level=logging.DEBUG)

def parse_args(args=sys.argv[1:]):
    parser = argparse.ArgumentParser(description="Runtime Cluster Test Workflow")

    parser.add_argument(
        "pegasus_keg_path",
        help="abs path to pegasus-keg install (e.g '/usr/bin/pegasus-keg')",
        metavar="PEGASUS_KEG_PATH",
    )

    parser.add_argument(
        "config_dir",
        help="name of test config dir (e.g. 'runtime-condorio', 'runtime-nonsharedfs'",
    )

    return parser.parse_args(args)

def write_sc(top_dir: Path, run_id: str):
    # get pegasus version
    cp = subprocess.run(
        ["pegasus-version"], stdout=subprocess.PIPE, stderr=subprocess.PIPE
    )
    if cp.returncode != 0:
        raise RuntimeError(
            "unable to call pegasus-version: {}".format(cp.stderr.decode().strip())
        )

    REMOTE_PEGASUS_HOME = "/scitech/shared/scratch-90-days/bamboo/installs/pegasus-{}".format(
        cp.stdout.decode().strip()
    )

    sc = SiteCatalog()

    # --- cartman-data site ----------------------------------------------------
    cartman_data = Site(name="cartman-data", arch=Arch.X86_64, os_type=OS.LINUX)
    cartman_data.add_directories(
        Directory(
            Directory.SHARED_SCRATCH,
            top_dir / "staging-site/scratch",
        ).add_file_servers(
            FileServer(
                "webdavs://workflow.isi.edu/webdav/scratch-90-days/" + str(top_dir / "staging-site/scratch"),
                Operation.ALL,
            )
        )
    )
    cartman_data.add_env(PEGASUS_HOME=REMOTE_PEGASUS_HOME)
    sc.add_sites(cartman_data)

    # --- condorpool site ------------------------------------------------------
    condorpool = Site(name="condorpool", arch=Arch.X86_64, os_type=OS.LINUX)
    condorpool.add_condor_profile(universe="vanilla")
    condorpool.add_pegasus_profile(style="condor")
    sc.add_sites(condorpool)

    # --- sharedfs site --------------------------------------------------------
    sharedfs = Site(name="sharedfs", arch=Arch.X86_64, os_type=OS.LINUX)
    sharedfs_dir1 = Directory(
        Directory.SHARED_STORAGE,
        Path("/scitech/shared/scratch-90-days")
        / os.getenv("USER")
        / "storage/black-diamond-output"
        / run_id,
    )
    sharedfs_dir1.add_file_servers(
        FileServer(
            "file://"
            + str(
                Path("/scitech/shared/scratch-90-days")
                / os.getenv("USER")
                / "storage/black-diamond-output"
                / run_id
            ),
            Operation.ALL,
        )
    )
    sharedfs.add_directories(sharedfs_dir1)

    sharedfs_dir2 = Directory(
        Directory.SHARED_SCRATCH,
        Path("/scitech/shared/scratch-90-days") / os.getenv("USER") / "scratch" / run_id,
    )
    sharedfs_dir2.add_file_servers(
        FileServer(
            "file://"
            + str(
                Path("/scitech/shared/scratch-90-days") / os.getenv("USER") / "scratch" / run_id
            ),
            Operation.ALL,
        )
    )
    sharedfs.add_directories(sharedfs_dir2)
    sharedfs.add_env(PEGASUS_HOME=REMOTE_PEGASUS_HOME)
    sharedfs.add_condor_profile(
        should_transfer_files="Yes",
        universe="vanilla",
        when_to_transfer_output="ON_EXIT",
    )
    sharedfs.add_pegasus_profile(style="condor")
    sc.add_sites(sharedfs)

    # --- local site -----------------------------------------------------------
    local_site_url = config.get("all", "local_site_url", fallback="")

    local = Site(name="local", arch=Arch.X86_64, os_type=OS.LINUX)
    local_dir1 = Directory(Directory.SHARED_STORAGE, top_dir / "outputs")
    local_dir1.add_file_servers(
        FileServer(local_site_url + str(top_dir / "outputs"), Operation.ALL)
    )
    local.add_directories(local_dir1)

    local_dir2 = Directory(Directory.SHARED_SCRATCH, top_dir / "work")
    local_dir2.add_file_servers(
        FileServer(local_site_url + str(top_dir / "work"), Operation.ALL)
    )
    local.add_directories(local_dir2)

    local.add_env(SSH_PRIVATE_KEY="/scitech/shared/home/bamboo/.ssh/workflow_id_rsa")

    sc.add_sites(local)

    # write
    sc.write()

def write_rc(config: configparser.ConfigParser):
    input_file = config.get("all", "input_file")
    if input_file == "":
        input_file = Path("f.a")
    else:
        # is a directory such as '/scitech/shared/scratch-90-days'
        input_dir = Path(input_file) / os.getenv("USER") / "inputs"
        input_dir.mkdir(parents=True, exist_ok=True)
        input_file = input_dir / "f.a"

    with input_file.open("w") as f:
        f.write("This is sample input to KEG")

    rc = ReplicaCatalog()
    rc.add_replica(
        site=config.get("all", "file_site"), lfn="f.a", pfn=input_file.resolve()
    )
    rc.write()

def write_tc(config: configparser.ConfigParser, pegasus_keg_path: str):
    tc = TransformationCatalog()

    for i in range(1, 3):
        sleep = Transformation(
            namespace="cluster",
            name="level{}".format(i),
            version="1.0",
            site=config.get("all", "executable_site"),
            pfn=config.get("all", "executable_url") + pegasus_keg_path,
            is_stageable=True,
            os_type=OS.LINUX,
            arch=Arch.X86_64,
        )

        sleep.add_pegasus_profile(
            clusters_size=config.get("all", "clusters_size"),
            clusters_max_runtime=config.get("all", "clusters_maxruntime"),
        )

        tc.add_transformations(sleep)

    tc.write()

if __name__ == "__main__":
    args = parse_args()

    TOP_DIR = Path().cwd().resolve()
    RUN_ID = datetime.now().strftime("%Y%m%d_%H%M%S")

    # --- validate test config dir ---------------------------------------------
    config_dir = Path(__file__).parent / args.config_dir
    if not config_dir.is_dir():
        raise ValueError(
            "config_dir: {} does not a directory or does not exist".format(config_dir)
        )

    config_file = config_dir / "test.config"
    if not config_file.is_file():
        raise ValueError("{} does not contain required file: {}".format(config_file))

    # --- general test config --------------------------------------------------
    config = configparser.ConfigParser(
        {
            "input_file": "",
            "workflow_name": "horizontal-clustering-test",
            "clusters_size": "3",
            "clusters_maxruntime": "7",
        }
    )

    config.read(str(config_file))

    # --- catalogs -------------------------------------------------------------
    write_sc(TOP_DIR, RUN_ID)
    write_rc(config)
    write_tc(config, args.pegasus_keg_path)

    # --- workflow -------------------------------------------------------------
    wf = Workflow(config.get("all", "workflow_name"))
    input_file = File("f.a")

    # create 4 lvl1 jobs
    for i in range(4):
        job = (
            Job(namespace="cluster", transformation="level1", version="1.0")
            .add_args("-a", "level1", "-T", i + 1, "-i", input_file)
            .add_inputs(input_file)
            .add_profiles(Namespace.PEGASUS, key="job.runtime", value=i + 1)
        )

        wf.add_jobs(job)

        # for each lvl1 job, create 4 lvl2 children
        for j in range(4):
            child = (
                Job(namespace="cluster", transformation="level2", version="1.0")
                .add_args("-a", "level2", "-T", ((j + 1) * 2))
                .add_profiles(Namespace.PEGASUS, key="runtime", value=((j + 1) * 2))
            )

            wf.add_jobs(child)
            wf.add_dependency(job=job, children=[child])

    # plan and run
    execution_site = config.get("all", "execution_site", fallback="local")
    staging_site = config.get("all", "staging_site", fallback="local")
    output_site = config.get("all", "output_site", fallback="local")

    top_pegasusrc = Path(__file__).parent / "pegasusrc"
    pegasusrc = config_dir / "pegasusrc"

    # include anything in __file__/pegasusrc in ./config_dir/pegasusrc
    with top_pegasusrc.open("r") as top_cfg, pegasusrc.open("a") as cfg:
        cfg.write(top_cfg.read())

    try:
        wf.plan(
            conf=str(pegasusrc),
            sites=[execution_site],
            staging_sites={execution_site: staging_site},
            output_sites=[output_site],
            dir="work/submit",
            cleanup="leaf",
            cluster=["horizontal"],
            verbose=3,
            submit=True,
        ).wait().analyze().statistics()
    except PegasusClientError as e:
        print(e)
        print(e.result.stdout)

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


January 2, 2019 Why Is Collagen Good For You and What Are Some Ways to Use It?
Research has proven time and again that hemp oil does not have any negative effects on users' memory. In fact, it has also been proven that CBD oil helps in promoting cognitive decline for the damage caused to the memory caused due to age or trauma or any memory disorders like Alzheimer's and PTSD. The mental health benefits of CBD oil are so profound that many countries have legalized its use to treat several conditions.
Patients suffering from vascular dementia face problems while planning, reasoning, and judgment. This happens when blood flow to the brain is impaired due to any brain damage. Experts have found that CBD oil has the ability to activate CB2 receptors in the brain. This improves the blood flow to the brain and soon you will notice that the patient who had problems with reasoning and judgment will be able to make those decisions as they normally would. As soon as the CB2 receptors get activated, the brain cell activity starts to function normally and that's how CBD oil can treat patients with vascular dementia.
The disease of forgetting what happened in the past is known as Alzheimer's disease. It is very common among people and can be really frustrating for them. However, recent research has shown that Cannabis extract helps cognitive decline in patients suffering from Alzheimer 's. Patients suffering from this disease have disoriented blocks in the immune cells of the brain. This leads to an inflammatory response and the memory of the patient tends to flicker every now and then. There is another aspect to this disease. Patients who have Alzheimer's release oxygen from the brain which is also the more oxygen is released the more problem the patient will have remembering things. CBD, being an antioxidant, reduces the oxygen stress. This allows theand the time for which the patient is able to remember things from the past increases considerably. CBD oil is also known to prevent Alzheimer's from developing.
This is often an inherited disorder that slowly leads to the death of the brain cells. Patients who have Huntington's disease often have mood swings and go on to have mental disabilities. Unsteady gait and general lack of coordination are some more problems associated with this disease. CBD oil is very effective in treating this disease, especially if it is diagnosed in the early stages. This oil has anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties that will be safe for the user at any level of treatment. Since patients can handle high dosages of CBD oil, doctors often suggest that patients who are in a severe stage of this disease use a greater dosage than the ones who are in the early stages.
Experts believe that CBD oil has a long way to go as it will have more health benefits in the future that has not been researched until now. So, don't doubt this product because scientists and researchers have declared that CBD oil helps cognitive decline effectively.
Why Is Collagen Good For You and What Are Some Ways to Use It?


Born in Lawrence Kansas , raised in Starkville Mississippi , Jackson began painting in college at Mississippi State University . In 1992 he received a Master's in Fine Art from the University of Missouri . Since then his artwork has received top honors in national and international competitions, and graced the covers of dozens of magazines and books.
Paul was honored by the American Watercolor Society with signature membership at the age of 30. He is also a Signature member of the National Watercolor Society. Paul was the Grand Prize winner in the "Paint Your Way to Paris" competition and has been featured as one of the Master Painters of the World in International Artists Magazine.
Paul's artwork has been on the cover of the Artist's magazine four times in recent years. Other media featuring Jackson 's work include: American Artist, Watercolor magazine, Watercolor Magic, Watercolor Artist, Forbes Magazine, The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, the Washington Post, NPR, CBS News, The Baltimore Sun, The St Louis Post, The Kansas City Star, and TWA's Ambassador Magazine.
Many of Paul's works hangs in private collections, but you can see some examples on display in museums and public buildings.
In 2001, Jackson unveiled a 30' diameter tiger mosaic on the University of Missouri campus modeled after his painting "Tiger Spot". Paul led hundreds of volunteers in assembling more than 420,000 Italian glass tiles for the project. Also, his painting, "Not Exactly Front Row Center" was recreated as the stage design for the musical "Porterphiles" at the York Theatre in NYC. Paul has designed Easter eggs for the White House and he designed the Missouri Commemorative State Quarter for the United States Mint.


One need of all laboratories is pure water. Without the proper conditions, tests can be contaminated by particulates in the source water. We understand this and help laboratories achieve the water quality that they require.


text:
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Sacred Heart Monastery Home Page Privacy Statement
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This Site collects two general types of information: (a) information you voluntarily provide to us, which may include personal information (such as your name, address, e-mail address, etc.), and (b) information we collect automatically when you visit this Site through cookies, third party tracking technologies and server logs.
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text:
Best New Cars of 2020
July 11, 2019 June 25, 2019 by Chris
Let take a look as some of the best new cars we expect to see arrive in 2020. More than that, actually. There are already a few potential market shakers scheduled for that model year. Whether they're worth waiting for, that's for you to decide. No one can really advise you to wait that long for a new model anyway. But that still shouldn't stop us from thinking a few steps ahead. Following models are just that. Likely the most anticipated models for year 2020 and a window into automotive industry's nearer future. Bear in mind that some of them might get rescheduled, while others – even though announced – might get discarded completely. That's the price of predicting the future. You never know it for sure.
What Are The Best 2020 Cars Coming Out?
Aston Martin DBX
The Porsche Cayenne, Bentley Bentayga, upcoming Lamborghini Urus and Rolls Royce Cullinan are proof enough that no automaker however illustrious can resist the urge to join lucrative motoring segment that SUV and crossover segment certainly is. Aston Martin will be joining the race too. It's only a matter of model year. By the looks of it, their DBX concept from 2015 Geneva Motor Show (production model likely to keep the name) is bound to become one of the most striking offerings for model year 2020.
It's not only Aston Martin's reputation that mandates a crossover in their lineup. It's sheer survival these days as well. DBX will likely be underpinned by a modified version of adhesive-bonded aluminum DB11 platform. That said, the car will likely cost around $200,000. Furthermore, it'll likely be powered by one of Mercedes-Benz's V8 powerplants, but stronger engines and electric options should become available further into DBX's cycle. Finally, expect four doors and more SUV-like roofline when production model hits the streets. DBX concept didn't have to care about such practicality trivialities.
Tesla Roadster
The name might be old, but the car will be all-new. That's for certain. Especially since Tesla's first production car wasn't exactly "to die for". Even with the extended range upgrade that came a few years later. Although Elon Musk admitted Tesla Roadster is still more than a few years away, cool renderings like this one have already started gracing the web. Musk also admitted it'll dethrone Model S as the fastest Tesla car out there. Now it's becoming interesting.
So, what do we know at this point? Very little, sadly. Even the 2020 arrival date is in question, but I doubt Tesla will have the luxury to wait much longer than that. After all, they aren't the only company that produces electric cars. New Roadster's platform will be built in-house. A welcome move since first generation models featured platform borrowed from Lotus. It might even sport adopted Model 3 platform. Come to think of it, new Tesla Roadster might actually borrow a few cues from the upcoming Model 3. But they certainly won't be much alike in terms of driving dynamics. Roadster's lower center of gravity, more aerodynamic body, and likely much more potent powertrain should take care of that.
Porsche EV
Like I said; Tesla isn't the only company with means and know how to produce and market quality electric vehicles. The Germans are quickly becoming global leaders even in this segment, and Porsche seems to be preparing a real treat for us. Speculations about the Porsche EV are anything but new. Stuttgart-based company is investing heavily in technology, production facilities and electric vehicle-building knowledgeable workforce alike, so Porsche EV sedan is something you can practically put in the bank.
The first physical preview of the future Porsche EV was the Mission E concept unveiled at the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show. 600 horsepower, 310 all-electric miles and 0 to 60 acceleration in low 3 second range were its specs. One can only expect 2020 Porsche EV to build upon these figures and advance further – especially in range department. That's the least one can expect from a car for which Porsche has built all-new facility in Weissach. This also means EV won't share too many details with any other current Porsche vehicle. Apart from their timeless design, of course.
Audi E-tron SUVs
Audi is planning on introducing no less than three completely new all-electric vehicles by 2020. Not only that, but they've announced more electric models to follow after that. Like their colleagues from Porsche, they too have been found guilty of investing heavily in high-voltage technology and quick charging infrastructure. Announcement of future Audi E-tron models coincides with the announcement of their Crossover/SUV lineup expansion. Put two and two together, and it's highly likely that most of their future EV's will have the name starting with Q in front of the number.
In fact, Audi has already unveiled the E-tron Sportback concept car which should serve as a preview into their EV future. It'll likely slot between Q5 and Q7, giving it the name Q6. Rather creative, don't you think? Anyway, their lack of creative nomenclature more than pays of in actual technology and performance. 250 miles of range thanks to 95 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, and all the tech-savviness of conventional Audi models. That's what the show car offers, at least. In three years time, expect one of the best cars 2020 has to offer to come with much more.
Maserati Alfieri
Yes, I know the Maserati Alfieri debuted at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show. Yes, I know that was a while ago. But I also know, as you've probably already heard, that Alfieri's production has been delayed. Just enough for it to arrive by 2020, it would seem. For once, it was rescheduled in order to make way for Maserati Levante. Secondly, Italians also decided to update GranTurismo whom Alfieri was supposed to replace. Anyway, all should fall in place come 2020.
But, what kind of a car will Alfieri be? For starters, it's safe to assume it'll be much like the GranTurismo. 2-door, 4-seat coupe grand tourer with majestically sublime lines. However, while GranTurismo is powered by Ferari/Maserati V8's, Alfieri should be motivated by Maserati's in-house V6. At least initially. V8 and electric versions of future Alfieri powertrain are possible after the initial year. If Maserati is to be believed, Alfieri will be launched in three different tunes from the get-go. 410-horsepower, 450-horsepower, and 520-horsepower versions. However, there's still a long way before 2020 finally knocks at our door, and I wouldn't be surprise to see these figures grow by the time final product reveals its face.
Ah, the iconic Supra. How we miss you! They promised us a new model based on the Toyota FT-HS concept, but that's been 10 years ago. Then there was the FT-1 from 2014, but still no biscuit. One thing is for certain, though. Toyota Supra will return. And that might well happen in 2020 or thereabouts. In fact, Toyota is already working on it in collaboration with BMW. If that doesn't promise a great performer, then I don't know what does.
Actually, the new Toyota Supra and BMW Z4 replacement (likely called Z5) will practically be the same cars. Badge engineering has never sounded sweeter. What these two won't share, however, are the engines. That doesn't have to be a bad deal for Toyota. Although BMW's engines are widely acclaimed as some of the best performance mills, you'll also remember that turbo Supra was once powered by 2JZ-GTE inline-six. Engine of impeccable sound, and even better performance and reliability. New Supras, however, will likely feature turbo fours and V6's in place of past models' iconic straight-six.
The Ford Bronco isn't only one of the best cars 2020 will bring, nor one of the most anticipated models of the same year. It's one of the most anticipated vehicles of the decade. And it's finally arriving. Slowly but steadily, though. New Bronco will be developed by Ford Asia-Pacific Product Development Center. In other words, it'll be developed in Australia, but production is scheduled to take place in Michigan Plant.
Now, most of us have our own view of the direction which new Bronco should take. This also means many of us will end up being disappointed. Why? Because new Bronco almost certainly won't look nothing like the old one. Instead, it'll likely resemble one of Oz land's crossovers. I don't mean to disrespect them. They're fine vehicles, but not at all like the sturdy, boxy off-roader Bronco used to be prior to getting the axe. In any case, it'll share new Ford Ranger's platform, albeit slightly shorter one at that, and should come with a host of EcoBoost options under its hood.
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Gauthier, nine others elected to Americana board
Wednesday, December 1, 2010 – Mary Gauthier leads a list who will become new board members of the Americana Music Association, it was announced Wednesday.
Gauthier and nine incoming directors were elected to serve two-year terms starting Jan. 1, 2011.
Incoming or re-elected Americana Music Association Board Members are:
Tim Fink; Vice-President, Writer/Publisher Relations, SESAC
Todd Ohlhauser; Co-owner, Mercy Lounge / Cannery Ballroom
Al Moss; President; Al Moss Promotions
Sylvia Giannitrapani; Southeastern sales rep / Ryko Distribution
Tim McFadden; Owner, Tim McFadden Management, LLC
Amanda Hale-Ornelas; Director, Media Relations New West Records
Bob Benckert; CFO, Alternate Root
Jessie Scott; Partner, Music Fog
Holly Lowman; Manager, Ramseur Records
Board members remaining to serve the second of their two-year terms are:
Ashley Capps; President, AC Entertainment and co-creator/producer of Bonnaroo
Joan Kornblith, Correspondent and Program Host, Voice of America
Pam Matthews, Owner, DuVoyant Music
John Allen; Vice President, Bug Music
Chip Taylor, songwriter, artist
David Macias; President, Thirty Tigers
At-Large board members: Rodney Crowell, Raul Malo, Buddy Miller
The 2011 executive committee will be elected by the new board at the annual board retreat on Jan. 13-14 in Nashville.
More news for Mary Gauthier
01/26/18: Gauthier, "American Folk" soundtrack drop
02/04/15: Gauthier schedules new shows
CD reviews for Mary Gauthier
Rifles and Rosary Beads
Mary Gauthier has built her career on honest, sometimes brutally and achingly self-confessional songs. This is the first time that she has focused on experiences other than her own, and it could become not only the strongest album of her career but, in its own way, a landmark album. "Rifles and Rosary Beads" was co-written over the period of a few years with U.S. veterans and their families, revealing untold and powerful stories that veterans faced abroad, returning home and that their »»»
Trouble & Love
Mary Gauthier is an artist who will never be accused of not telling the truth and the artist's latest collection of songs, "Trouble and Love," is no exception. Inspired by Gauthier's real life heartbreak, the eight-track record follows the artist through the process of grieving over a lost relationship, highlighting with fine lyricism and rich, moody Americana soundscapes the good, the bad and the ugly. Gauthier brought some method acting principles to the recording process, »»»
Live at Blue Rock
Live albums can be a tricky proposition. Even if a performer succeeds in doing justice to their material, the artist still has to find a way to enhance the originals. On the other hand, if the concert renditions fail to match the studio versions, then they might be accused of being overly dependent on their producer's studio savvy. So what's the musician to do? If you're Mary Gauthier, you take your most resilient songs - and a few by a sympathetic soul like Fred Eaglesmith - and »»»
Too Late to Pray: Defiant Chicago Roots
The first time we encountered the term 'insurgent country,' we were in the mid-90s. The roots-rock music world was quickly evolving, and a Chicago-based upstart called Bloodshot Records was putting out compilations featuring groups »»»
When The Mavericks call an album "Play The Hits," It really should be qualified as "Play The Selective Hits" because this band has never been especially interested in performing only what's commercially viable. »»»


The waxwings do look good in the water. I used the sardine and the bunker colors. 88mm size. Easy to use and easy on the shoulder.
Nice, my order of the sardine 88mm will arrive in a couple days. I like the bunker and also the mackerel pattern, but I like the sardine color better.
Got out this morning 5:30-9:00 and landed two really small kingfish, a small doggie and a small sheepshead. All caught on squid. The crabs enjoyed my bunker. Saw a 20"-24" striper caught nearby so that was encouraging. All morning there were minnow of some kind out front but not a lot chasing them. Could be my last trip until I bust away in Oct/Nov.. Sad day!
The Maryland OSV Zone is CLOSED due to overwash.
or drowney . . . be careful out there . . . mother nature's fierce beauty . . . marvelous pic!
Not like you would be able to hold bottom anyway even if the OSV was open. Starting the season off with a bang.
Well...I like it rather nasty but this seems to be a bit much. Besides, you'd hafta throw a brick. See ya soon!
Sorry about the quote, I don't know where it came from or how to get rid of it. Anyways, this is the osv beach on Sunday. The waves were around 6' or so. We didn't make it to the boarder, it got soft down closer to the water, and the high water mark was up to the dunes, so we bailed. It was a good display of mother nature's power. I was gonna go back Thursday maybe, but it looks like that ain't happening.
Well this week was a complete bust. Got a few lines wet on Saturday afternoon when we got to AIVA and caught the worlds smallest blue and then a couple of good sized rays. Then the seas got angry. Today I couldn't take it anymore and tried fishing Toms Cove and fed the crabs...Cutting the trip short and heading home tomorrow and will try again in 3 weeks with hopefully better weather.
The highlight of the trip is that the crabs are more abundant than I've seen in a while so we'll be taking some home tomorrow.


Happy Valentine's day! Roberto and I use to be very busy for Valentine, owning a chocolate shop, it was the craziest day of the year. We use to work very late, customers kept arriving until 10 or 11 pm. At the end of the day we were so exhausted, we just wanted to lay down and go to bed. So celebrating wasn't for us.
Now things are different, our job is not Holiday related anymore, we have Matteo and we are surrounded by family!
When he was done working in our new photography studio Roberto joined us in the kitchen and we prepare this amazing Valentine meal all together.
We prepared a classic risotto, Roberto made his special meat roll and we added simple peas to complete the plate. Assembling the meat roll will require a little bit of your time, but when that is done you can cook everything at the same time in about 30/40 minutes.
Compose your plate with risotto at the bottom, peas and meat rolls on top.


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29.04.2018 | The President of Turkmenistan has a talk with the chief of the Central Asian branch of the All-Russia State Television and Radio Broadcasting Company Robert Frantsev
During the celebrations in the International Ahalteke Equestrian Sports Complex that brought together foreign journalists, who covered the festivities on the occasion of the National Turkmen Horse Day, President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov talked with the chief of the Central Asian regional branch of the All-Russian State Television and Radio Broadcasting Company, Robert Frantsev.
29.04.2018 | Valuable prizes are awarded on behalf of the Head of the State to the winners of races, marathon and show jumping competitions
Seven different distance races where dozens of racers took part and demonstrated their best sport merits was held in International Ahalteke Equestrian Centre under the events dedicated to National Turkmen Horse Celebration on Sunday.
29.04.2018 | Production of Turkmenbashy refinery complex leads at the trades of the State Commodity and Raw Materials Exchange of Turkmenistan
50 transactions were registered at the trades of the State Commodity and Raw Material Exchange of Turkmenistan last week.
29.04.2018 | President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov: Fast ahalteke horses are the pride and close friends of Turkmens forever
President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov addressed the greeting to horse breeders, connoisseurs and all compatriots on occasion of National Turkmen Horse Holiday.
28.04.2018 | President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov takes part in the events on occasion of National Turkmen Horse Holiday
Celebrations of National Turkmen Horse Holiday took part in Ahalteke Equestrian Complex with the participation of President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov. It included the races of senior master jockeys, award ceremony of the winners of international ahalteke horse beauty contest and thematic contest among art professions.
28.04.2018 | Saparmyrat Odayev is the silver medallist of Asian Boxing Championship
Saparmyrat Odayev won silver medal in the weight category up to 64 kg at Asian Junior Boxing Championship in Bangkok (Thailand).
28.04.2018 | Turkmenistan volleyball team is the winner of Asian Championship
Zonal Asian Volleyball Championship in Dhaka (the People's Republic of Bangladesh) finished in triumph for Turkmenistan team. The collection of sport achievements of our country was supplemented with another gold medal.
28.04.2018 | The Head of the State approves the composition of Joint Turkmen German Work Group
For further development of cooperation between Turkmenistan and Germany, the President of Turkmenistan signed the Resolution, having approved the composition of of Joint Turkmen German Work Group from Turkmen part.
28.04.2018 | Turkmen Horse Day renamed into the National Turkmen Horse Day
According to the Decree of President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, the National Turkmen Horse Day will be annually celebrated on the last Sunday of April.
28.04.2018 | The President of Turkmenistan severely reprimands the Minister of Internal Affairs of Turkmenistan
In accordance with the Resolution of the President of Turkmenistan, Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Turkmenistan, for the improper performance of duties, loosening of control of the order and discipline in the services of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Turkmenistan, Mulikov Isgender Handurdyevich was severely reprimanded.


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USD($) 103.02JPY
East to West route: Vladivostok — Khabarovsk — Ulan-Ude — Lake Baikal — Irkutsk — Novosibirsk — Yekaterinburg — Kazan — Moscow
Tour dates: 04.06.2019 - 17.06.2019
Vladivostok is Russia's largest far east port. The city played an essential role in the Russian-Japanese war in the early 20th century. One of the important must-dos of Vladivostok is a meal in a local restaurant with a variety of local seafood to try.
Khabarovsk is one of Russia's largest far east cities, located on the banks of the mighty Amur river. It's famous for the larget tiger resort in Siberia. A cruise on the Amur river is one of the most exceptional experiences in Khabarovsk.
Ulan-Ude is the capital of the Buryatian republic - the most significant Buddhist tribe of Russia. It's also home to Ivolginsky datsan, Russia's largest Buddhist temple. Another famous Ulan-Ude landmark is the world's most gigantic head of Lenin - a unique Soviet relique of town's main square.
Lake Baikal doesn't look big, but it's incredibly deep, which makes it the world's largest freshwater reserve. The water is crystal clear so that you can see through deep below. Baikal has unique wildlife. Local fish has excellent taste; lots of it is sold in the local market in Listvyanka.
Irkutsk is one of Siberia's oldest towns, founded in the 17th century. It's famous for its beautiful old wooden houses, decorated by the splendid carved wood ornaments. Irkutsk has spectacular old churches. It's very popular as a famous stop on the way to miraculous lake Baikal.
Novosibirsk is the capital of Siberia. It's located on the banks of the Ob river - Siberia's largest waterway. It's a contemporary city, third largest in the country. Novosibirsk is a large industrial, scientific and political center of the region. One of Russia's largest hydropower plants is located just outside of the city.
Yekaterinburg is a city at the feet of the Ural mountains where Russian West meets Russian East. The special obelisk marks the border. It is Russia's fourth largest city, proudly bearing the name of Peter the Great's wife Yekaterina (Catherine). Through the centuries, it has played an essential role in the history of the country and became the final home to the last Romanovs.
Kazan is a beautiful ancient Russian town, located on the coast of the Volga river. It is said to be founded by the Tatars from the Golden Horde, and through the centuries, grew to become the unique merge of Christian and Muslim culture. The Kremlin of Kazan is a world heritage site.
Day 1: Arrive in Vladivostok
Meet at airport and transfer to hotel.
Check -in & rest.
Day 2: In Vladivostok. Departure to Khabarovsk
Breakfast at hotel
After breakfasts start grand city tour of Vladivostok: view point at Egersheld and Lighthouse at Egersheld cape, Eagle's Nest Hill, Memorial Submarine S-56 Museum, Railway Station and Marine Station, historical center of Vladivostok, Svetlanskaya Street, Nikolai's Triumphal Arch, Orthodox Church, the Museum of Primorsky Region, Tsesarevich Embankment, Sports Harbor and Fortress Museum
Lunch in a sea food restaurant.
After lunch continue by visiting of Russky (Russian) Island. You'll cross the two enormous bridges across the Golden Horn Bay and Eastern Bosporus Strait, the latter of which would be a largest cable-stayed bridge upon its completion. Russky Island is opened for Primorye capital's residents and guests, the proximity to the city and convenient transportation turned it to one of the most popular recreation places. The island was significantly transformed after holding the APEC summit on its territory in autumn 2012. Now you have a chance to watch the large international business center, where summit's main activities will take place, Far Eastern University's campus, which has united Vladivostok's four largest universities, view points from where you can see Primorye shores with fantastic hills, relict forests, beaches with picturesque coastal landscapes, azure bays.
Dinner at a city restaurant.
After dinner transfer to rail st and boarding on the "Imperial Russia" train.
Departure from Vladivostok
Day 3: In Khabarovsk. Departure to Ulan-Ude
Breakfast on board.
Arrive in Khabarovsk.
Upon arrival start sightseeing of the city including visit to the Local Lore Museum.
Lunch in a city restaurant.
River cruise by boat with a folk concert.
Matryoshka-doll painting master class.
Dinner in a city restaurant.
Departure from Khabarovsk.
Day 4: On train
Enjoy activities on board
Meals on board.
Day 6: In Ulan-Ude. Departure to Lake Baikal
Arrival in Ulan-Ude.
Upon arrival start sightseeing tour of Ulan-Ude with inside visit to Ivolginsky Datsan.
Lunch with folk show in a traditional Buryat yurt.
The folk show includes: cooking-class of traditional Buryat dish pozy, master-class of playing dice, archery, wear a traditional Buryat costume, assembly / disassembly a felt yurt.
Departure from Ulan-Ude.
Dinner on board.
Day 7: Lake Baikal. Departure to Irkutsk
Breakfast on board
Arrival in Port Baikal station.
Then continue by ferry boat to Listvyanka village.
Start today's tour from Chersky Stone observation where opens a beautiful view on the southern part of the lake and the source of the Angara River.
Lunch at a city restaurant.
After lunch take a visit to the Baikal Museum where presented flora and fauna of the lake.
Walking tour along the narrow streets of the village concludes by visiting of local fish and souvenir market.
Return to Port Baikal station.
Picnic-dinner on one of m of a picnic on the shore of the lake.
Day 8: In Irkutsk. Departure to Novosibirsk
Arrival in Irkutsk.
Upon arrival start city tour of historical city center of Irkutsk including the Decembrists' Museum and the "Wooden Lace House" also known as "House of Europe", the most beautiful and amazing streets of the city called Paris of Siberia.
Continue today's tour by visit to the Taltsy Museum of Architecture and Ethnography which is located on the right bank of the Angara River.
Explore by your own the 130th Quarter - Irkutskaya Sloboda where were reconstructed city buildings of the XIX-XX cc.
Departure from Irkutsk.
Day 10: In Novosibirsk. Departure to Yekaterinburg
Arrival in Novosibirsk.
Lunch at city restaurant.
This afternoon we visit the Railway Museum, Novosibirsk Opera and Ballet Theatre, old-line streets and Ob River esplanade.
Today's city tour concludes by return to the train.
Departre from Novosibirsk
Day 11: In Yekaterinburg. Departure to Kazan
Arrive in Yekaterinburg.
Upon arrival start city tour dedicated to the last days of last Russian tsar. Visit to the Church on Blood in Honor of All Saints built to commemorate a tragic historical event.
After lunch continue the tour by visiting of geographical boundary of two continents: Europe and Asia.
Departure from Yekaterinburg.
Day 12: In Kazan. Departure to Moscow
Arrive in Kazan (the city located on the picturesque banks of Volga river).
Upon arrival start panoramic city tour Kazan. Visit to the "Old Town" with it's eye-catching atmosphere.
Get enjoyed by Tatar epic folklore show "Tugan Avalim".
Continue city tour by visiting to Kazan Kremlin (Qul-Sharif Mosque, the Annunciation Cathedral and ether).
Lunch with a master class will reveal some secrets of Tartar cuisine.
Departure from Kazan.
Day 13: In Moscow
Arrival in Moscow and leave the Imperial Russia Train.
Upon arrival start city tour around Moscow including visit to the Moscow Kremlin.
After lunch walk along the Arbat Street, then visit to the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour.
In the end of tour visit to number of Moscow metro stations.
Transfer to the hotel. Check -in & rest.
Day 14: Trip concludes
Transfer airport / departure home
First Class ($ 7260)
First Class Plus ($ 7850)
Business Plus ($ 11960)
VIP class ($ 12840)
Adult (from 18) - 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Students 7-17 y.o. - 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Children - 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Single supplement / First Class	 ($ 2940)
Single supplement / First Class Plus	 ($ 3240)
Single supplement / Business Class	 ($ 8100)
Single supplement / VIP Class	 ($ 8640)
11 nights onboard the "Imperial Russia" train (½ of 2-bedded state room);
1 night at Vladivostok hotel and 1 night at Moscow hotel (½ of standard double/twin room);
meals: full board (Days 2-13) + tea/coffee on board throughout the day;
onboard supply with towels, bathrobe and slippers at "Imperial Russia" train;
sightseeing according to program with local guides (available in English, German, French and Spanish; other languages are possible upon request);
arrival / departure transfers (airport-/rail st.- htl. and v.v.);
porterage service (at hotels & railway stations);
en-route brief lectures on the Trans-Siberian Railroad, geography and history of the country visited;
on board staff: doctor; English speaking group leader, tour managers.
International & domestic flights;
meals on Day 1 and Day 14;
all drinks ordered in the bar car;
Russian visa (*to be arranged by passengers prior to departure as earlier as possible);
tailor made sightseeing (customized day-tours are available for each place of stop through Russia upon request);
tips and personal expenses;
medical insurance (every passenger is oblighed to have a personal insurance for the whole duration of the tour);
vaccination (consult your doctor or medical center for specific health advice due to visit of different countries in terms of this tour).
Payment and cancellation conditions
1. Non-refundable prepayments payable 5 days upon receipt of the confirmation of the tour:
$ 1800 per person in Business Class and VIP compartment;
$ 1080 per person in First Class and First Class Plus compartment;
2. Full payment due to be made 60 days prior to departure.
3. After cancellation of a confirmed reservation 60 days prior to departure of the tour 50 % of the cost will be non-refundable.
4. After cancellation of a confirmed reservation 30 days prior to departure of the tour 100 % of the cost of the tour will be non-refundable.