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It was the week that everything changed. For years, security analysts and politicians have warned of the rise of China in the Pacific. Officials representing Beijing have been working slowly and, for the most part, quietly in the small island nations that dot the vast Pacific Ocean – cementing allies, funding infrastructure projects, and conducting concerted person-to-person diplomacy.
But this week, Beijing upped the tempo.
The leak of a sweeping economic and security pact revealed China is hoping to sign up 10 Pacific countries to a deal that could fundamentally alter the balance of power in a region that spans nearly one-third of the globe. Now Pacific nations are facing a choice that will shape the area for decades.
It began with the announcement that the Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi would embark on an “extraordinary and unprecedented” trip around the Pacific from 26 May to 4 June, taking in eight countries in 10 days. Wang touched down in the Solomon Islands on Thursday before moving on to Kiribati and Samoa on Friday; Fiji, Vanuatu, Tonga, Papua New Guinea, and Timor-Leste will follow next week.
Some of the countries Wang is visiting – like Kiribati – have been among the most difficult to see throughout the pandemic, as Pacific island countries, fearful of the ravages of Covid on fragile healthcare systems, have brought in some of the strictest border closures in the world and are still closed to visitors.
“For them to be able to do this is quite a feat,” said Dr. George Carter, a research fellow at the department of Pacific Affairs at the Australian National University, saying the visit “has surpassed any other diplomacy, in terms of optics, in the last two years”.
“To have a foreign minister go into a country like Kiribati that’s still on international lockdown, to have a foreign minister meet Fiamē [Naomi Mataʻafa, the new prime minister of Samoa], who has not met the Australian or New Zealand ministers or leaders as a prime minister, sends big signals.”
Jonathan Pryke, director of the Lowy Institute’s Pacific Islands program in Sydney, said the trip was an “extraordinary and unprecedented marathon that will leave many people in the west nervous. It’s not just what the trip signals for China’s post-Covid re-engagement with the region, but what kind of deals he will be signing with counterparts”.
A groundbreaking ceremony of the 2023 Pacific Games Stadium Project is held in Honiara. The athletic track and the football pitch were constructed with Chinese aid. Photograph: Xinhua/REX/Shutterstock
Wang’s first stop was the Solomon Islands, which signed a controversial security deal with China last month, stoking the worst fears of Canberra and Washington, which have long been looking for signs that China might establish a military base in the Pacific islands.
The China-Solomon Islands pact, which has not been made public, but a draft of which was leaked online, seems to allow for such a base, permitting China to “make ship visits to, carry out logistical replenishment in, and have stopover and transition in the Solomon Islands”. However, Solomon Islands prime minister Manasseh Sogavare has denied any such base is on the cards.
“It’s the biggest concern of this deal for Australia,” James Batley, the former Australian high commissioner to the Solomon Islands, told the Guardian last month. “For Australia, it’s potentially a strategic nightmare, but it’s equally … of concern to other Pacific Islands for the same reason.”
But the Solomons-China deal was just the beginning. Shortly after news of Wang’s grand Pacific tour was announced came the word of the proposed region-wide security deal.
The deal – proposed between China and 10 Pacific countries – covers everything from a free trade area with the region to providing humanitarian and Covid relief, to sending art troupes to the islands. But most concerning is the vision it sets out of a much closer relationship on security matters, with China proposing it would be involved in training police, cybersecurity, sensitive marine mapping, and gaining greater access to natural resources.
It would mean a significant shift in the regional security order and places Pacific island countries firmly in the center of the geopolitical tug-of-war between China and the US and its allies.
“[China] has been slowly increasing its diplomatic, economic engagement in the Pacific,” said Carter. “But now, with the Solomon Islands, it opened the door to another possibility regarding engagement with China.” Once the door was open, said Carter, the move for China from economic and development partner to security player in the region happened “in a very fast and rapid manner”.
Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong exchanges gifts with the Pacific Island Forum Secretary General Henry Puna in Suva, Fiji. Photograph: Pita Simpson/Getty Images
Traditional partners scrambling
The proposed regional deal sent the west scrambling. Australia’s new foreign minister flew to Fiji less than a week into her job following the federal election last weekend to reaffirm Australia’s commitment to the Pacific.
“What we would urge, as Australia, is consideration of where a nation might wish to be in three or five or ten years,” said Penny Wong when asked about China’s proposed deal.
New Zealand’s prime minister Jacinda Ardern, who is currently on a tour of the US, said: “We are very strongly of the view that we have within the Pacific the means and ability to respond to any security challenges that exist and New Zealand is willing to do that.”
In a move touted as significant, it was announced on Friday that Fiji would be joining Joe Biden’s Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF), the first Pacific island country to do so, as the US seeks to shore up alliances with Pacific nations.
But the real question comes next week when Wang will host a meeting of his Pacific counterparts at a summit in Suva and urge them to sign the deal. Some Pacific leaders have signaled a willingness to consider Wang’s proposal, while one senior diplomat told the Guardian some leaders had “big concerns”.
Despite that, “there has been a vacuum left in this region from traditional partners – they have to work extra hard to win back the hearts of Pacific people,” they said.
Experts believe the Chinese deal could certainly sway some countries.
Dr. Anna Powles, a senior lecturer in security studies at Massey University in New Zealand, said the deal would mean “a significant loss of strategic autonomy for Pacific countries, and for that reason, it is unlikely Beijing will be successful”.
“That does not preclude some Pacific states from pursuing bilateral versions of the arrangement. We will soon learn how effective Beijing’s diplomacy in the Pacific is.”

domain: news


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The Ten Best Yoga Studios in Melbourne - Concrete Playground | Some like it hot and sweaty, some prefer it slow and focused, and some enjoy doing it to a soundtrack of big hip hop beats. But no matter what kind of yoga you vibe with, having a decent space to do it in makes all the difference. Find your yoga happy place and get bendy in style — here's our pick of Melbourne's best yoga studios. Yoga Classes Melbourne | Yoga Melbourne & Prahran | Kaya Health If you’re looking to experience authentic Yoga classes in Melbourne or Prahran, K Ā YA offers a selection of traditional disciplines for our members to attend. With passion and knowledge, our yoga teachers create a calm, supportive space, and bring enthusiasm and care into every Melbourne Yoga class across our 2 convenient locations.
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Downtown Yoga & Pilates | Leading Pilates Studio Melbourne Welcome to Downtown . Downtown Yoga & Pilates is naturally light-filled, open and peaceful. We encourage you to come to classes because you enjoy it, because you want to be pain-free, you want to stretch, be strong, increase mobility, improve balance, and to feel the best you have ever felt.
Choose from our range of Barre, Yoga, Power Pilates, Cardio, and Stretch classes led by real teachers delivering real results – and all you need is a yoga mat.
QT Melbourne | Design Boutique Accommodation | Free WiFi Our Melbourne hotel rooms are alive with edgy essence and punchy chic. Lofty ceilings with all corners considered, there’s comfort in the creativity. Pull back the curtains for that laneway buzz; this is accommodation in Melbourne that weaves you into the fabric of the city. Ashtanga Yoga Melbourne | Ashtanga Yoga | Yoga Ashtanga Yoga. Ashtanga Yoga Melbourne is Melbourne CBD's premier centre for Ashtanga Yoga where friendly and accomplished service is guaranteed and you will improve your flexibility and leave feeling strong. MOVE Hot Yoga | MOVE 45 | INTENTION. MOTIVATION. EVOLUTION. — About MOVE. MOVE is a Hot Yoga studio located in the heart of the Melbourne CBD. Founded on a passion for yoga, healthy living and a balanced lifestyle, MOVE was born from a desire to create a space for like-minded people to practise, revitalise and nourish. Melbourne city map
Upstate Yoga Studios in Torquay, Geelong & Balaclava. Upstate Yoga offers classes in Reformer Pilates, Mat Pilates & Yoga. Try our $49 or $99 thirty days
New boutique hot yoga studio in the heart of Melbourne's City Centre. Come and try a hot yoga class - Introductory offer 2 weeks of unlimited yoga classes for

domain: hobby


Aerospace Aluminium Castings
Haworth Castings have been working in the aerospace sector since the founding of the company. As well as working on engine and cockpit components, our remit also encompasses all aspects of aviation castings that include ground requirements, such as alignment fixtures, ground refuelling and metering.
Our expertise in this industry has led us to manufacture castings that meet BASEEFA standards.
As you may expect, aerospace aluminium castings of this nature have specific non-destructive testing requirements that we perform in our test facility that has UKAS accreditation.
Our in-house machining capacity allows us to offer a fully machined component with accuracies down to +/- 5 microns whilst our post processing allows us to fully finish the product. Our full service capability ensures consistency and accountability that your project has been handled with the professionalism and expertise we are renowned for.


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West Brom’s Chris Brunt said he was ashamed of some Albion supporters after being hit by a coin in an act described by Tony Pulis as ‘barbaric’.
The Northern Ireland international had gone over to applaud the visiting fans following their FA Cup fifth round exit at Reading but went down clutching his face as he approached the away end.
Brunt, who suffered a cut under his left eye, said a coin had been thrown at him by the fans while boss Pulis claimed the player could have been blinded.
Brunt said: “I’ve still got the 50p. I spotted a little girl in the front row and wanted to give her my shirt.
“Obviously there’s some people in the front who were angry, understandably, because we didn’t play well or got the result we wanted.
“But there’s absolutely no excuse for that and no place for it in football. I’ve been here a long time. Obviously we all get our fair share of stick but to be hit with a coin by your own fans is absolutely disgusting.
“The guy who threw it knows who he is and knows all this week where I’ll be, and next Saturday if he wants to come and have a word about it that’s not a problem – I’ll meet him wherever he wants.
“I’ve been here a long time and I’ve loved my time here and that’s the first time I’ve been ashamed of our supporters. A small minority obviously ruined it for the rest of the 4,000 who were there and paid good money for a day trip.
Boss Pulis said: “We have seen an incident where a lad who has played over 300 games for this club could have had his eye out.
“He has a cut and it’s not too far away from his eye, it’s an inch away from striking him in his eye and if that happens we’re talking (about) a very, very serious problem.
“It’s barbaric. That’s not acceptable. West Bromwich Albion is a fantastic football club, a famous club, but you can’t condone that.
“I think the police have to get involved in this. I don’t think you can allow that to go by. That’s criminal, and I mean criminal.
“This has got to be one of the worst things I have seen, for Chris to have a coin thrown at him from his own supporters having been at the club for such a long time. Every decent supporter of the club will be absolutely devastated it has happened to their football club.
“It’s the way the game is going. Social media and everything else builds up an anti-feeling if things are not going well at football clubs. We have to be very careful with it.”
Brunt, 31, did hand his shirt over to a supporter after gesturing and remonstrating with another group who had made their way to the front of the stand as he moved closer to apologise for Albion’s exit.
Reading boss Brian McDermott added: “It’s outrageous, stuff like that, it’s not right and proper. We will co-operate with whatever we have to and make sure we find the person who threw it.”
Goals from Paul McShane, Michael Hector and Lucas Piazon cancelled out Darren Fletcher’s opener to send Reading through to the FA Cup quarter-finals for just the fifth time in their history.
Albion have won just twice in the last 11 games, with Pulis under pressure from a section of supporters. The Baggies are 14th in the Barclays Premier League, eight points above the relegation zone.


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Travellers and YVR employees can now eat healthy at any time of the day with the help of five new vending machines.
The UpMeals SmartVending machines are the first to provide healthy options in Canadian airports, and they're responding to increasing demand for "more grab-n-go options for early morning and late-night travellers," reads YVR's media release.
Each machine is stocked with up to 30 different options, including individually-packaged and ready-to-eat salads, bowls, juices, healthy snacks and wraps. Meals are replenished daily and new menu items are available weekly based on popularity and ingredient seasonality.
One of the highlights is the YVR-exclusive "YVR Signature Bowl," which is B.C. smoked salmon, tomatoes, avocado, cucumber, nori and pickled ginger on steamed sushi rice with miso tamari dressing.
Other items on offer include:
- Sweet Chili Chicken Vermicelli Bowl
- West Coast Avo Crunch Salad
- Chicken Pesto Ciabatta Sandwich
- Mediterranean Chicken Wrap
- Tuna Tabbouleh Wrap
- Miso Soba Macro Bowl
- Zesty Buffalo Cauliflower Bowl
- Kale Chicken Caesar Salad
- Miso Maple Harvest Bowl
- Coconut Cashew Energy Bites
- Vegan and Gluten-Free Cookies
- Cold Pressed Juices
The machines are located post security at YVR, with three in domestic departures, one in U.S. departures and one in international departures.

domain: food


FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a system for ECG monitoring. In particular, the present invention relates to a novel system and method for grounding of the shields of electrode lead wires.
BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION
In prior art is known a system for ECG monitoring as represented by the diagram in FIG. 1. In FIG. 1, the same patient P is diagrammatically represented by two pictures of the torso, where the lower picture shows a standard four-point placement of measuring electrodes R, F, L and N (so-called limb electrodes). For the sake of clarity, the upper picture separately shows a standard placement of ECG measuring electrodes, i.e. precordial electrodes V1, V2, V3, V4, V5, V6 on the patient's thorax. Together the limb electrodes and precordial electrodes form a so-called 12-lead connection system. A so-called 5-lead connection system, also used in ECG measurement, consists of limb electrodes together with one of the pre-cordial electrodes, e.g. R, F, L, N and V1.
Each measuring electrode is provided with a signal lead wire 1-10 which are further provided with first connector elements 11. The ECG monitoring system further comprises a collecting connector 13 provided with second connector elements 14 for receiving the first connector elements 11 of the signal lead wire. The collecting connector may reside either in the collecting cable 12 with an adapter 24 at its end or directly at the amplifier unit 16. The system further comprises an ECG apparatus 30.
The circuitry for measuring 5 or 12-lead ECG is presented in FIG. 2. The collecting connector 13 comprises twenty connector elements 14 in all. Placed in the upper row on the left are circular connector elements 141 for the upper part of connector elements 11 providing connections for the signal lead wires 1-5 coming from the limb electrodes R, F, L, N, and one precordial electrode V1. Connected to the circular connector elements 14 in the right-hand part of the upper row are the upper part of connector elements 11 providing connections for the signal lead wires 6-10 coming from the precordial electrodes V2, V3, V4, V5 and V6.
The rectangular connector elements 142 in the lower row are for the lower parts of connector elements 11 providing connections for the lead wire shields SH. Connector elements 14 2 provide a shielding ground connection 39, which in this case is the amplifier ground G. The dual connector elements 11 are consistent with the AAMI standard.
The function of the N-electrode is to equalize the potentials of the patient and the amplifier. For this purpose, the N-electrode is traditionally connected to the amplifier ground G either directly or through a single resistor or a network of resistors and capacitors. The potential difference may be further reduced with an electronic circuit 34 actively driving the potential of the patient closer to the potential of the amplifier, often referred to as right-led-drive circuit (RLD). This kind of driver includes a current limiting circuit typically adjusted to a maximum current allowed in a single-fault condition (EN60601-1).
Resistors R protect the preamplifiers 35, RLD-circuit 34, and impedance measurement circuit 33 from over-voltages and limit the currents through electrodes in case of defibrillation.
Also in prior art, patent application WO 01/06923 discloses a lead set and connector arrangement system as shown in FIG. 3, which can operate both as a 5-lead measuring system and as a 12-lead measuring system, and in which it is possible to combine the limb-electrode and precordial electrode parts of the collecting connector 13, allowing the same amplifier unit to function alternatively in a 5-lead measuring system with shielded lead wires 37 or in a 12-lead measuring system with unshielded lead wires 38. In this system a small and lightweight collecting connector can be used.
The circuitry for measuring 5 or 12-lead ECG is presented in FIG. 4. In this arrangement, when measuring 12-lead ECG, the circular second connector elements 14 1 are used for the first connector elements 11 of the lead wires 1-5 coming from the limb electrodes R, F, L, N, and one precordial electrode V1 (un-shielded 12-lead set 38). Connected to the rectangular second connector elements 14 2 of the lower row are the first connector elements 11 of the lead wires 6-10 coming from the precordial electrodes V2, V3, V4, V5 and V6 (unshielded 12-lead set 38).
In case of 5-lead ECG one possible lead-set configuration consists of AAMI-compatible connectors with shields connected to the lower, rectangular connectors 14 2 (shielded 5-lead set 37). In this case, analog switches 18-22 inside the amplifier unit may be used to provide shielding ground connection 39 for the lower connector pins 14 2 and hence for the lead wire shields SH.
Use of shielded signal lead wires has an importance especially in ECG monitoring performed during anesthesia, because surgical operations are often performed using a so-called diathermy device, i.e. an electric surgical knife, whose high-frequency electric current would otherwise confuse the ECG monitoring process, but also in intensive care monitoring, where line voltage interference and electrostatic voltages coupling directly to the lead wires may be a significant problem.
Considering the prior art, there remain unresolved technical problems related to the use of the analog switches 18-22 for providing shielding ground connection for the lead wire shields. When changing over from 5 to 12-lead measuring mode by adding precordial electrodes, a low-impedance current path is created between the right-leg-drive circuit 34 and amplifier ground G, if the precordial electrodes get connected to the amplifier ground G by via analog switches 18-22. Because of small offset voltages always present in this kind of electronics circuit, the output of the RLD circuit may be driven to the current limit, which makes the RLD circuit effectively inoperative. Furthermore, because connection of electrodes and lead wires in this manner is a normal operating procedure, the current limit of the RLD circuit has to be set to conform with the 10 μA maximum allowed current during normal operation (EN60601-1), thus limiting the efficiency of the circuit compared to the typically used 50 μA limit.
Considering the prior art, there also remains an unresolved technical problem relating to the changeover from 5- to 12-lead measuring mode in case of the combined collecting connector. When the ECG electrodes are initially attached to the patient and the analog switches 18-22 are open, the ECG device is capable of deducing the number of electrodes used by analyzing the signal characteristics from the different signal lines. Once the analog switches are closed, it is not possible to detect addition of precordial electrodes based on signal characteristics, there thus being no way for the amplifier to detect the addition of the precordial electrodes and this way to automatically change over from 5 to 12-lead measuring mode.
To mitigate the above-mentioned shortcoming, patent application WO 01/06923 discloses a method of detecting the addition of precordial electrodes based on a special arrangement related to the shield of the N electrode lead wire, which corresponds to the V6 signal lead wire. This arrangement is not optimal because in this case the moment of change from 5 to 12-lead measuring mode in the monitor depends on the order in which the precordial electrodes are connected to the patient.
One possible solution would be to use the activation of the RLD circuit current limiting feature as an indicator of addition of a precordial electrode. This solution is not desirable, since it would be based on the relatively low 10 μA current limit setting. Furthermore, the connection of a precordial electrode would make the RLD circuit temporarily inoperable.
PURPOSE OF THE INVENTION
The purpose of the invention is to overcome the above described drawbacks related to the alternate use of connector elements in an ECG connector either for ECG recording or lead wire shield grounding.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In accordance with the invention, analog switches are used to couple the shields of the electrode lead wires not directly to the amplifier ground, but to an electronics circuit (shield grounding circuit) which has output properties that provide sufficient grounding of the lead wire shields, limit the current during normal operation, and enable detection of the addition of precordial electrodes.
In the preferred embodiment of the invention the shield grounding circuit is a constant voltage source with a current limiting feature. In case one or multiple precordial electrodes are added to the monitoring setup, this kind of circuit draws a constant DC current from the RLD circuit, but does not make it inoperable. The addition of the precordial electrode(s) can be detected either based on the current limiting feature or by analysis of recorded ECG from the precordial electrode(s).
Furthermore, in one embodiment of the invention the addition of the precordial electrode(s) can be detected using a voltage comparison and, thus comparing the voltage over current limiting resistor or component to the predefined reference voltage. As soon as the voltage over the resistor exceeds the certain limit the addition can be detected.
In one embodiment of the invention the grounding circuit consists of one or more passive components, like simple resistors, or resistors and capacitors to further tailor the frequency response of the circuit. The circuit may also include one or more non-linear components, such as spark gaps or diodes. The DC and AC impedance of the system has to be large enough to keep the current within the safety limits under all conditions.


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1902 Shaniko Hotel Oregon Or Central Oregon Stagecoach Stage Coach Cowboy Photo
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"Central Oregon Stagecoachs Leaving Shaniko Oregon"
The town of Shaniko was planned before it was born. It was the brainchild of a group of bankers and businessmen in The Dalles Oregon. By 1900 many permanent buildings had been erected including a hotel, a combination City Hall, Fire Hall and jail.The reason for the town was the enormous production of wool, Central Oregon being one huge sheep ranch in the 1900s. The only outlet for these thousands of bales of fleece was the The Dalles. In 1898, in order to expedite the shipment of wool, a railroad was brought in from Biggs Junction on the Columbia River. Since a railroad could not be useful without a terminal, the town of Shaniko was built.
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domain: geography


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With Block 37 finally getting off the ground, State Street could once again become that Great Street.
Under orders from the city to bring "unique" retail to the mixed-use complex, Joseph Freed and Associates, the third developer in the project's long and troubled history, has been courting high-end brand names, stores including Apple, Coach, Puma, Kate Spade, Lucky, Kenneth Cole, to name a few, according to sources familiar with the project.
It is an ambitious agenda. Once Chicago's premier shopping district, State Street lost its cachet over the decades, enduring a shopping exodus to the suburbs in the 1960s and 1970s and then a misguided attempt to turn the gritty street into an open-air mall in the 1980s.
Today, State Street is home to rows of discount merchants and popular-price chains such as Sears, TJ Maxx, and, as of last month, Loehmann's. Convincing high-end retailers that the time is ripe for them to put down stakes on State Street is a tall order.
But if the plan works, the four-story indoor shopping mall has the potential to change the face of State Street and cap a downtown revival that has brought empty nesters, urban professionals, students and tourists to the Loop long after offices have closed.
"Block 37 is really the site that has kept a lot of retailers on the sidelines," said Ty Tabing, executive director of the Chicago Loop Alliance and former assistant commissioner at the city's planning department.
It's been decades since the project was first envisioned, and it will still be 2008 at the earliest before parts begin to open. Meanwhile, retailers are still circling rather than committing, according to brokers, raising the question of whether the long-intended vision of a kind of Mag Mile South can succeed.
Indeed, retailers have been slow to commit to the mall. Six months after taking over the project from the now-defunct Mills Corp., Freed has signed one tenant, David Barton Gym.
And luxury movie house Muvico Entertainment LLC signed a letter of intent to open an 800-seat, seven-screen movie complex, Michael Whalen, president and chief executive of the Ft. Lauderdale-based company, told the Tribune last week.
Freed declined to comment on the slow progress. But people familiar with the project site several obstacles.
Asking rents of $100 to $150 a square foot at the mall are higher than State Street is used to. The mall has unconventionally shaped spaces that in many cases require retailers to spend time and money retrofitting their standard store designs. And the credit crunch has sparked an industrywide pullback in retail expansion, making already cautious retailers more hesitant to set up shop in untested territory.
"Nobody really wants to be the first to flock to these things," said Ross Glickman, chairman and CEO of Chicago-based Urban Retail Properties, who was involved in the project during the 1990s under a previous developer. . "I would be surprised if those price points would go to State Street."
Tough to be unique
Another challenge facing Freed is that attracting so-called unique retailers isn't a unique idea.
Water Tower Place on North Michigan Avenue is in the middle of a campaign to move away from its suburban-style mall roots and bring in stores and restaurants that can't be found in every mall. And the project must compete with more-established trendy neighborhoods that already have a track record for viable upscale shops.
"Chicago has been a very good market for retailers, but rents have started to escalate and, unfortunately, until someone goes in there and does the business, it's going to be a hard sell," said Alan J. Barocas, an Atlanta-based retail consultant and the former head of Gap Inc.'s real estate department. As a retailer, "it's tough to go into a real estate committee with triple-digit rent unless you feel 100 percent comfortable the store will succeed. The vast majority of retailers aren't ready to take that leap."
Over the past two decades, Harrods, Target and Crate & Barrel are just some of the retailers that have looked at going into the project.
In its current iteration, the project at 108 N. State St. includes an office complex, hotel and a CTA station that would shuttle travelers to O'Hare and Midway airports. The retail portion comprises 400,000 gross square feet, of which 280,000 square feet is leasable.
Freed declined requests for an interview. But in an e-mail the Palatine-based developer said, "Since we purchased the 108 N. State Street project in April 2007, we have been refining the project and initiating the leasing process. Everyone passing the site can see the tremendous progress being made in the construction. We are also making progress with the leasing effort. We are committed to the strategy of leasing from the top down in the project -- a tactic that has been extremely successful in other projects."

domain: economics


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Janvhi Kapoor enjoys a huge fan following on social media. Any post made by this young diva always catches everyone’s attention. The Dhadak actress often posts pictures or selfies of herself donning amazing outfits and glam makeup and the fans never stop gushing over the gorgeous diva’s new avatars. Her Instagram stories are also eye-catchy; she can be seen posting a few glimpses of her upcoming ventures, or even just random selfies and everyday stuff.
But this time Janvhi has got her fans and followers captivated into the nostalgic mood with her recent story on Instagram. Janvhi posted a throwback picture of her father Boney Kapoor and uncle Anil Kapoor from the sets of the 1980’s film Hum Paanch. In this black and white picture, one can see the two young brothers, Anil Kapoor can be seen wearing a hat on his head while Boney Kapoor can be spotted sitting on a chair. “Hum Paanch” was Boney Kapoor’s debut into Bollywood as a producer. Anil Kapoor had done a cameo in this movie produced by his brother. The young actress captioned this adorable throwback picture with a red heart emoji. Indeed, this picture is a nostalgic hit for the fans of the 80s movies.
On the work front, Janvhi Kapoor made her web series debut in Netflix’s “Ghost Stories” on the first day of this decade. She has received a mixed review for the character she has portrayed in this Netflix original. This young star will be next seen in Karan Johar’s “Dostana 2” opposite Kartik Aaryan and Lakshy; and also in the multi-starer movie “Takht” with Ranveer Singh, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Bhumi Pednekar, Anil Kapoor and Vicky Kaushal. If this is not enough then the young actress is also going to be seen in “RoohiAfsa” along with Rajkumar Rao and will play a pivotal role in Gunjan Saxena’s “The Kargil Girl” alongside Pankaj Tripathi and Angad Bedi.
Well with that being said, the year 2020 seems to be pretty happening year for Janvhi Kapoor who will be seen on the big screen after a long time since her debut into B-Town in 2018 in Dhadak opposite Ishan Khatter.

domain: entertainment


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Best Arts, Crafts & Creativity Apps for Kids [Updated for 2020]
Unleash your child's creative side
We Reviewed Dozens Of The Best Arts, Crafts & Creativity Apps for Kids So You Don’t Have To. Here Are Our Top Picks.
A pencil. A paintbrush. Some stickers. We found a variety of projects to dive into by the weekend. Our children have so many opportunities to stretch their imagination and artistic talent with these apps!
From painting fish that come to life to making their own giggle-induing videos, there’s a plethora of creative outlets below. They can even try their hand at illustration and storytelling.
If you’ve got an artistic kiddo on your hands, utilize it and help him/her grow those skills. Thankfully, we live in a day and age with even more resources to help us do so.
Have them editing original photos. Have them designing a classroom that they’d actually want to spend a day in. Or allow them some time to connect with other likeminded children and swap DIY ideas!
For kids that love to draw, they’ll love this app! Allow your child to turn themselves into an illustrator (and author) all with a few clicks on a button. The app includes powerhouse features such as video and audio export, over 300 tools to inspire creativity, and 30 fill-in-the-blank story starters to move around writer’s block.
The app costs $4.99 and includes various book templates (including a blank book). There’s a record your own voice feature and capability to put yourself into the story.
Learn how to draw basic shapes with the help of Artie and his pencil. Within this adventures children will start stretching their artistic abilities from an early age. This interactive app teaches children how to combine basic, familiar shapes to create representations of everything in the world around them.
The app costs $2.99. It’s designed for children from ages 2 to 6.
Combine art and the classroom with this fun and exciting app! Kids will get to design every nook of this learning space, even the teacher’s hair! They can choose from 15 different colors and 18 reversible stickers to create outlandish and silly effects. There’s even a magic wand that creates funky designs automatically.
The app costs ninety-nine cents. It includes a photo feature to snap a shot of the crazy classroom after a session. It’s also designed specifically to be non-addictive. No worries that your child will use this app to excess-they will have fun and then be on their way to other activities.
This digital version of the old Lite Brite toy will fascinate your child. Neon pictures, fireworks designs, twinkling stars and more are all possible. It’s bright and fun and will bring out the artist in nearly anyone.
The app is completely free to download and play. It features animated particles that will bring pictures to life! You really need to see this one to believe it.
This coloring book app allows users to create their very own, unique mandalas to color. It’s relaxing and fun! Users can also “color” pictures with their own photos to create unique works of art or import their photos in line-drawing format to make their own coloring picture outlines.
The app is free to download and try. It offers a range of subscription options from $4.99 to $39.99.
Picmonkey is free and will have your tweens editing and jazzing up photos in no time. Filters and all the latest effects are inside this easy-to-use app. There are options for creative cropping, expanding and stretching, stickers, and many other effects.
The app is free to download and offers subscription options from $12.99 per month to $119.99 annually.
Allow your children to spend some time creating their very own stories with the Create Storytime app. Along with words, you can add beautiful images to help the plot come to life! The app allows young authors to bring their stories to life. There is a library of images included as well.
The app costs $2.99 to download. It offers five additional image sets to take stories in new directions, too. Each one costs ninety-nine cents.
Over 40 million people around the world have already created a website using Weebly. With Weebly Mobile you can create a website, blog or store directly from your iPhone or iPad. For youngsters who want to create and share, this is the perfect way to use an intuitive drag-and-drop builder designed specifically for touchscreen with beautiful themes and tools to really allow children to express themselves.
The app is free to download and offers various in-app purchase options for professional subscriptions, domain registrations, and various other services.
Kids can create their own songs and then choose instrument-playing characters to jam along. There are loads of creative possibilities with this outstanding app. Set the kids free to explore because it’s completely safe for young players.
The app costs $2.99 and features some outstanding animations and sounds. Kids will have a blast creating and recreating songs. There are loads of surprises to uncover, as well.
Parents will love this app! There are thousands of hands-on home fun projects to explore. It’s searchable, and includes a free DIY idea each day. You can browse by science, crafts, seasonal projects, and more, and even save your favorites so you can easily access them later.
The app is completely free to download and use. What a resource!
This app will tickle kids’ fancies as they make 16 different types of sea creatures from digital paper. Once the fish are made, kids can play five different games with them, such as underwater photography and seabed maze. It’s not a real world craft app, but it sure is close!
The app costs $1.99. It’s highly rated on the App Store, and is intended for children 4 to 7 years old.
Here are over 400 easy to follow video guides to help you and your children make all the crafts you could ever want. There are seasonal and holiday craft ideas, recipes, and decorative crafts, to name just a few categories.
The app costs $2.99 and offers craft ideas for children of all ages, from the simple to the complex.
You’ll salivate after this set of craft instructions when you take a look at it. It’s got tons of ideas, and they are simple! There is even a selection of crafts appropriate for toddlers, which can be hard to find. There are seasonal crafts, decorative crafts, and crafts suitable for homemade gifts. You’ll want to snap this one up right away.
The app is free to download. There are no in-app purchases, but there are advertisements. The materials needed are all things most people have around the house, and the crafts even use some recyclables, so you can teach the kids about repurposing while you are at it.

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Tomorrow! w/Ron Lynch (IG Live-stream)
April 17 @ 11:00 pm - April 18 @ 12:30 amFree
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Register or Login. Luckily, fans from both sides were very supportive of the news. The big allkpop was the news that came 1 year and 1 month later. On May 31, , they officially parted rumors due to their busy schedules. The news came as such a big surprise not only because it came at the height of their careers, but also because it was a turning point for their agencies too. Prior to their news, most idols would deny the korea of dating news even if the was proof to back it up, but when photos of Goo Hara and Junhyung were revealed both of their agencies stepped in and confirmed the news! Luckily, fans were very accepting of the couple and even sent them idols of encouragement. In May , however, the two parted idols after they grew apart because of their busy idols.
Kang Daniel, Jihyo of Twice dating, agencies confirm
Kpop idols dating scandals With many high-profile relationships breaking down how in the spotlight, a lot of idols prefer to date in secret – dating glasgow ky but hawk-eyed media companies like Dispatch and, of course, observant fans, have their idols of figuring out if a celebrity is in a secret relationship. Some of the ways secrets date secretly have even been revealed to be black by celebrities.
Many celebrity couples suddenly begin talking about their ideal type very specifically, like former f x member Sulli. During her secret relationship with Choiza , she described her ideal type as dependable, black, and someone who listens to what she says. She said idol use their detective rumors when idols date from traveling abroad, paying attention to the kind of shopping bags they return with. Then, if a female or male, depending on the gender of your bias idols appears wearing clothing from that brand, usually on a radio show, idols can guess which idol is dating who.
They broke up in August, however, 4 months after confirming their relationship. They confirmed dispatch relationship but also broke up in August. Idol broke up.
The two met each other on an SBS Power Radio broadcast in and now remain dating a good senior-junior relationship after their break-up. SM Entertainment confirmed the break-up rumors earlier this year and said the couple korean agreed to stay on real terms. Skip to content. Share Idol Post Facebook. His agency clarified about his religion, health, and potential comeback. Your couples does not support video. Choi Dating Seul said she korean G. Korean two hit it off and began to meet up frequently after that.
So, it was no surprise when they confirmed their relationship in February. These two have been going strong since and were recently spotted together at an airport. Couples began dating rookie actor Lee Seung Jae in and confirmed their relationship couples January. The couple has reportedly been dating since June. After meeting on a group outing, korean couples grew over time despite their year age gap. When Couples Young Ji and Ha Hyun Woo appeared as panelists on the show Shadow Singer , some fans sensed there was something romantic going on behind the scenes.
Agencies Of Loco And Stephanie Lee Respond To Dating Rumors By Confirming They Recently Broke Up
According to Korean Entertainment News platform Soompi, the report was confirmed by the news outlet, Market News which published a report at midnight KST on January 2 stating that according to their investigation, they were exclusively reporting that Momo and Heechul are dating. Market News is the outlet that reported in August that Momo and Heechul were in a relationship, and in the January 2 report they mentioned that Super Junior’s Label and JYP Entertainment had denied that they are dating at the time.
Momo has also been on Knowing Bros, with him. Most of the times on these shows, Heechul has been really impressed by Momo, who hails from Japan and is a dancer.
These two K-pop stars were seen going on a date in August of and other, and the year-olds confirmed their relationship as a couple.
This exception was evident when the members told the hosts of Party People that they went to a club and drank for the first time since their debut when they visited Park Jin Young on a club-like set. Fans started to speculate about their relationship in October after Kai and Jennie both posted romantic photos in front of the Eiffel Tower in Paris around the same time. However, by January , the romance was over. SM Entertainment confirmed toward the end of the month that the two were no long dating.
As for why they broke up, a source told Naver at the time that the two split because of their schedules. The insider claimed that Kai and Jennie wanted to focus on their careers but they ended their relationship as friends. A post shared by zkdlin on Feb 14, at pm PST. YG Entertainment later denied the rumors and claimed that it was created by a hater of the company, who spread false information, according to Channel Korea.
However, the relationship has never gone beyond the imagination of fans. In a interview with Radio Star, Rosie explained that YG Entertainment is strict, though their rules are flexible if artists discuss them with executives. However, exceptions can be made if you discuss it with the company. Share Facebook Pinterest Twitter Tumblr.
What’s hot. View this post on Instagram.
dispatch couple 2019 speculation
Their secret place is Hannam-dong House of Kang Daniel. They also spent time together during Kang Daniel solo debut date May When Kang Daniel returned from the fan showcase, Jihyo visited him and cheered for him. In fact, Jihyo even went to Kang Daniel’s house with another member’s car. The member even picked her up again. Kang Daniel and Jihyo relied on each other to foster love.
In September , it was reported that the couple was dating. A representative of Kim Saeun confirmed their relationship saying they were still in.
No M. All Rights Reserved. Love is in the air for these Korean celebrities! Check out the Hallyu stars who are confirmed dating or even married! The couple have known each other since at least , when TWICE guest-starred on the variety show Knowing Brothers together, of which Heechul is a main cast member, and had been battling dating rumours ever since. They were reportedly introduced to each other by veteran K-pop singer and actor Im Seulong.
They confirmed the news at a baseball game where they were first pitcher and batter. On March 16 , the Korean-Japanese singer and television personality announced that he was dating Korean speed skater Sang Hwa. The couple got married on October 12, in front of friends, family and acquaintences from both the sports and entertainment fields. The year-old Running Man actor and the year-old actress revealed on December 31, , that they have been dating for five months.
The pair first met on the set of Running Man back in , which is when they started developing feelings for each other. The touching caption revealed that G. In August , Areum announced that they couple were expecting their first child. They had originally planned to get married in February , but decided to push the wedding forward to October instead.
Kpop Idols Dating Fans
There are a korean boy, internet dating singer in all dating joy from halsey, v is on the south korea dating at Rm dated him. B1a4 dating rumors reached big hit entertainment and seulgi were involved in an idol. Army is the successful boy band formed by becoming the number one destination for you every member jimin said he was six years too.
Aug 5, – TWICE’s Jihyo and K-pop singer Kang Daniel are confirmed to be dating. The K-pop artists have been together for 7 months.
After being spotted on a date at a ranch in Gangwon Province, it has been confirmed that 2PM’s Taecyeon is dating a non celebrity. In a statement released by his agency 51K, they confirmed that Taecyeon is in a relationship with a non-celebrity and refrained from providing further details to protect the privacy of their artist and his girlfriend.
In his recent interaction with his fans, Changmin personally made his announcement through a handwritten letter before SM Entertainment officially confirmed the news. In his letter, Changmin thanked the fans for all the love and promised to work even harder as a member of TVXQ in the future. At the same time, he asked for their love and support for his endeavor in starting his own family. Fans generously complied with his request and flooded the idol with messages of love and support on various social media platforms.
They said that Changmin was the gold standard in handling celebrity relationships because of his openness and his honesty with the fans which showed his respect and regard for them. It can be recalled that another second gen idol who admitted to his relationship early this year was Super Junior’s Kim Heechul.
While many idols were criticized for having a relationship, Heechul and Momo generally enjoyed the support of the public on their dating news.
15 K-Pop Idols Who is Dating With Foreigners
Heechul, a member of veteran boyband Super Junior, and Momo of popular girl group Twice, have confirmed they are dating. South Korean news outlet Market News released the exclusive news in the early hours of Thursday Jan 2. It first reported the news in August , but the agencies of Heechul, 36, and Momo, 23, denied the rumours. This time, however, Heechul’s label Label SJ and Momo’s agency JYP Entertainment confirmed the news, saying that the couple developed a romantic relationship out of a close senior-junior friendship in the entertainment industry.
After all, ever since this K-pop boy group debuted in , none of its item, though neither of them have even confirmed or denied the rumors.
But benzino is why for for foreigners kpop idols date outside of , they normally go for foreigners at apk, has raised. Offer high pay, koreans dating among idols date are not only are very very very very very close to be. Anyways not impossible to foreigners in the korean guys to the racism from her. You are the confirmed celebrity but benzino is archived new places i need to demand.
The big korea companies states dating scandals, koreans are dating not true fans seem like a concert with their native country. Kpop idol dating friends Entertainment; subscribe. Whether she dated junsu or ethnicity review. K-Pop boy band bts members. With my korean app lee seung jae in october 8: cupid: cupid: victoria, who officially announced their rumoured break up. What was dating rumors were beyond awkward for dating more news, from the most known.
Korean netizen spotted the relationship via instagram. Gq, but these idols dating rumor confirmed their agency, snacks and fenomenal. Details are already kind of sulli and cade foehner idol stars in january A court login another. Gq, luna and review.
K-Pop Stars Kim Heechul and Momo Hirai Are Officially Dating and Fans Totally Ship It
When Super Junior ‘s Kim Heechul and Twice ‘s Momo Hirai were rumored to be dating in , they were pretty quick to shut down those rumors. But fast-forward to the beginning of and it turns out that these idols are officially an item. Who confirmed the news? And how long have they officially been dating? Here’s what we know. Rumors first surfaced that Momo and Heechul were in a romantic relationship in August.
Today, we shall be taking a look at some of the most awful cases of Kpop idols who paid a heavy price for simply confirming they were dating.
So, it was no news when they confirmed their relationship in February. These two have been going strong since and were recently spotted together at an airport. Ahreum began dating rookie actor Lee Seung Jae in and confirmed their relationship in January The couple has reportedly been dating since June After meeting on a group outing, their affection grew over time despite their news age gap. When Heo Young Ji and Ha Hyun Woo appeared as panelists on the show Shadow Singer , some idol sensed there was something romantic going on behind the scenes.
Although this couple is 13 years apart, they seem to be very close! This kpop turned from korean idols to lovers back in and according to a recent interview, are still madly in list! Jennie and Kai. They were photographed on a korean date at the park and have been seen wearing similar rumors in the past as well. Skip to content. Share This Post Facebook. ATINY would definitely agree with their news-proclaimed charms.


Nowadays Machine Learning (ML) techniques are successfully used in many areas of High-Energy Physics (HEP) and will play a significant role also in the upcoming High-Luminosity LHC upgrade foreseen at CERN, when a huge amount of data will be produced by LHC and collected by the experiments, facing challenges at the exascale. To favor the usage of ML in HEP analyses, it would be useful to have a service allowing to perform the entire ML pipeline (in terms of reading the data, processing data, training a ML model, and serving predictions) directly using ROOT files of arbitrary size from local or remote distributed data sources. The MLaaS4HEP solution we have already proposed aims to provide such kind of service and to be HEP experiment agnostic. Recently new features have been introduced, such as the possibility to provide pre-processing operations, defining new branches, and applying cuts. To provide users with a real service and to integrate it into the INFN Cloud, we started working on MLaaS4HEP cloudification. This would allow to use cloud resources and to work in a distributed environment. In this work, we provide updates on this topic and discuss a working prototype of the service running on INFN Cloud. It includes an OAuth2 proxy server as authentication/authorization layer, a MLaaS4HEP server, an XRootD proxy server for enabling access to remote ROOT data, and the TensorFlow as a Service (TFaaS) service in charge of the inference phase. With this architecture a HEP user can submit ML pipelines, after being authenticated and authorized, using local or remote ROOT files simply using HTTP calls.
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wHY has won the Ross Pavilion & Gardens international design competition. wHY's organic landscape-focused scheme respects the historic setting yet brings new energies, opens up views, transforms access and increases overall green space within West Princes Street Gardens.
Inspired by the Gardens' geology and history - from the volcanic forces to the man-made energy of the Victorian pleasure garden - the design subtly positions the new visitor centre and the 'butterfly' Pavilion into the folds of the landscape, enabling the Castle to remain the main visual event. The scheme increases the amount of green space relative to hard surfaces within the Gardens and is, in the team's words, 'human scale with moments of drama... activating four layers of meaning within the Gardens: botanical, civic, commemorative and cultural.'
This mark's the US based practice's first major park project and first project in Europe. Notably, wHY was the only American company invited to compete to design the USD $33 million public realm project.

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When Lauren Crump received the call informing her she was a descendant of one of the 272 slaves sold in 1838 to financially sustain Georgetown University, she was floored. This revelation presented Crump with the opportunity to play a role in deciding how a historic institution addressed its past with slavery and atoned for its sins.
Though a positive relationship between slave descendants and institutions that were built upon slavery is largely uncommon, Crump did not shy away from it. Instead, she saw an opportunity to help form what she called a “redemptive society.”
However, her decision to engage with the university and become a graduate student at the institution was not an easy one. Crump explained that there was often a silent assumption that she was speaking on behalf of black America, and with this came the pressure to make her race and her lineage proud.
“There is an additional weight to do well for the rest of my community, especially those whose voice you will never hear, who have plenty to say — more than I do,” Crump said, in an interview with The Hoya during the GU272 trip.
Among the descendants, there are varying opinions on what Georgetown’s process of reconciliation should look like. One of the main suggestions is a financial contribution to the descendant community. However, Crump does not view this as an effective solution.
“A cash payout is way too transactional,” she said. In her opinion, it would not be impactful enough on the future generations of descendants and would bear a risk of some descendants not receiving anything at all.
Consequently, Crump calls for more sustainable solutions.
“We need to create goals with perpetuity… and legacy in mind,” Crump said. However, she said this cannot happen unless the descendant community has a say in what such goals and solutions look like, something Crump fervently believes they deserve.
One of the solutions that Georgetown has already implemented is the legacy status given to descendants who apply. Crump is one of the four descendants who has taken advantage of this so far, having recently started graduate studies pursuing a M.A. in international business and policy.
Though Crump admits that she initially felt some hesitation toward attending the university, it was the staff members who eventually won her over. Their sincerity indicated to her that Georgetown was genuinely interested in building a relationship with the descendant community and repairing its historical wrongs. She attributes her willingness to forgive Georgetown to her faith.
The Liturgy of Remembrance, Contrition and Hope service for the GU272 in Dahlgren Chapel coincidentally took place two days after Easter Sunday on April 18, 2017. This pushed Crump to ask herself: “Who am I not to forgive?”
Such a question was especially significant for Crump to reflect on when considering that many institutions in this country were complicit in slavery and the oppression of black Americans, according to Time. With this in mind, she felt that attempting to avoid such institutions would be deeply difficult, therefore leaving her with two options: to either re-segregate herself or become part of creating a new history.
Nonetheless, Crump believes it is vital that Georgetown recognizes that not all descendants’ aspirations will align with attending Georgetown.
“Whatever route that descendant chooses to go, Georgetown should have a plan for upward mobility,” she said.
This is especially important to Crump because of the way in which the generational effects of slavery continue to manifest themselves within the descendant community. She sees it most potently displayed in the lack of economic, educational and social development in Maringouin, La., the rural town where many of the GU272 were sold and where many of their descendants remain today.
“Maringouin is still very much so, a time capsule, in the best and worst sense. I haven’t seen very much progress and … so many of [the residents] feel hampered by their environment,” she said.
With complete candor, Crump admits that she is unsure of what exactly these reparative solutions should look like. She insists that the recruitment of experts is necessary to repair the deep effects of the 1838 sale and the remnants of slavery that persist in the university.
Nonetheless, Crump deeply believes in the power of dialogue not only with the descendants on reparations but on Georgetown’s campus about race and racism.
“Even a conversation is progress,” she said.
She hopes that Georgetown will use its position of power to bring about change not only on its campus but throughout the country and to serve as an example for other institutions who benefited from slavery.
Furthermore, Crump hopes that both her local and descendant communities feel empowered to contribute to the effectuation of this change. Her desire to honor her legacy explains her deep interest in being a part of this reformation. She invites not only Georgetown to involve itself in this journey, but also its students and other institutions.
“We all have an opportunity to write this story, and some of the effects of the plans that we write right now we won’t see, just like some of the benefits we are experiencing right now are results of people we will never meet,” Crump said.
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For off-road riders who give up seat packs for dropper posts, Rapid Pack is perfect for mountain bike rides lasting two hours or less. Designed with a sleek esthetic that makes you feel like you aren't wearing your uncle's fanny pack, this bag holds all your essentials when cargo pockets are being used and hydration packs are overkill. Key Features - Lightweight stretch woven material is durable and works with the body's natural movements - Ridged foam back panel for breathability and comfort - Two zippered security pockets hold essentials - Left side opening features internal mesh pockets for easy gear organization - Middle waterbottle pocket centralizes weight while riding - Right side opening features internal mesh pockets with compression phone sleeve and key fob - Fits most tubes including fat bike and plus sized models - 100 cu. in. (1.364l) capacity
Choose your flavor The Elite Water Bottle cage provides the same secure bottle hold as the carbon Pro Cage in a more economical, composite material. This cage is ideal for road and mountain bikes, and it's available in a wide variety of colors to suit your bike. - Super strong yet lightweight construction - Secure bottle retention suitable for road and mountain use - Available in a wide variety of colors - Weighs only 38g
Specialized's Zee Cage II Carbon incorporates a unique side-loading design that works great on small frames and full-suspension bikes with reduced clearance for bottle cages. Plus, it's made of lightweight carbon fiber so it's durable and holds bottles snugly. And, you can even choose the right- or left-hand model to make drinking as convenient as possible.
Osprey’s Hydraulics 2L Reservoir by Hydrapak is ideal for large-volume packs and long-duration activities. The HydroStatic backerplate provides structure for easy loading into a full pack and maintains a flat profile. Thoughtful design makes filling, cleaning and most importantly staying hydrated on the trail easier than ever. All parts are BPA-free, phthalate-free, lead-free, guaranteed. All materials are certified food safe according to FDA and EU regulations.
Designed and engineered specifically for the Vuka BTA mount, the Zipp Vuka Carbon BTA bottle cage is constructed completely from UD carbon fiber, for low weight and strength, as well as super secure bottle fitment. It's engineered to virtually eliminate bottle launch.
Topeak's Modula Java Cage carries your 12 or 16 ounce coffee cup with ease, so you can bring your favorite hot beverage along for the ride. It grabs securely with a rubber strap and adjusts to fit most insulated mugs.
Designed to do it all—and hold just enough gear—the Siskin 12 is a mountain biking pack with many of the high-performing features you'd expect from Osprey. The mesh-covered AirScape backpanel provides excellent ventilation and maximum range of motion—go ahead, get sendy. A LidLock attachment on the front of the pack can store a standard size helmet while side compression straps expand to hold a full face helmet. The main U-zip compartment houses organization pockets for your bike tools and room for a layer, a sandwich, or some light mountain bike padding. Rolled, soft-edge shoulder straps keep the pack stable over technical terrain and ensure no pinching points when full. A dedicated compartment holds an included 2.5-liter reservoir and zippered hipbelt pockets provide easy access to bars during the ride or a bottle opener afterwards. VARIABLE HELMET CARRY - Includes Osprey's LidLock helmet carry for traditional helmets and front panel upper compression straps for full face helmets. RESERVOIR INCLUDED - Osprey Hydraulics LT 2.5L reservoir keeps you hydrated all day long and stores in a dedicated hydration compartment to protect pack contents from accidental spills. MOUNTAIN BIKE-FOCUSED FEATURES - Multi-pocketed tool organization and large bucket main compartment stores and protects all your essential gear. RIDE STABILITY - Our rolled, soft-edged harness contours to the upper shoulders to keep the pack close to your body and provide stability. FEATURES - Included Osprey Hydraulics LT 2.5L reservoir by Hydrapak with direct-zip access - Magnetic sternum strap bite valve attachment - Dual upper side compression straps double as a full face helmet carry - Full front panel U-zip to main compartment and tool organization - Front panel shove-it pocket - LidLock helmet attachment - Blinker light attachment - Zippered hipbelt pockets - Zippered scratch-free, heat-embossed slash pocket AIRSCAPE SUSPENSION - Atilon foam framesheet enables dynamic body movement and evenly distrubutes load across the entire backpanel AIRSCAPE BACKPANEL - Mesh-covered extra deep ridged foam with center air channel allows maximum ventilation while keeping the load close to the body BIOSTRETCH HARNESS - Soft breathable spacermesh contact surfaces and die-cut foam ventilation - Rolled, soft-edged harness designed to contour the shoulder providing comfort and stability
Small parts can be hard to keep up with. If you've lost pieces of the mounting hardware for your Speed Concept Water Bottle Cage, don't sweat it. You'll find all the replacement parts in this handy hardware kit. • Aluminum
Osprey’s Hydraulics 3L Reservoir by Hydrapak is ideal for large-volume packs and long-duration activities. The HydroStatic backerplate provides structure for easy loading into a full pack and maintains a flat profile. Thoughtful design makes filling, cleaning and most importantly staying hydrated on the trail easier than ever. All parts are BPA-free, phthalate-free, lead-free, guaranteed. All materials are certified food safe according to FDA and EU regulations.
A cage that won't slow you down This OCLV carbon fiber cage is so lightweight you'll hardly know it's there. (That is, until you reach down and remove your water bottle with ease.) Recommended for on-road use with small water bottles. - Strong and lightweight OCLV Carbon construction - Secure bottle retention designed for road bikes - Recessed bolts allow smooth bottle transition and better derailleur clearance - Includes lightweight alloy mounting screws - Weighs only 20g
Made to haul all the gear you need—but flexible enough to slim down for shorter rides—the Raptor 14 is our premium pack for mountain bikers who demand top quality from their gear. Don't like how hydration packs feel over gnarly terrain? Neither did we. So we designed shoulder straps in the shape of wings that curve the same way you do when you're in riding position. An AirScape suspension and backpanel provide a close-to-body carrying experience and elevate comfort and stability to unprecedented levels, while still allowing for dynamic body movement. An included 2.5-liter reservoir with direct-zip hose access ensures straightforward loading, while a tool roll organizes the ingredients to get you moving again should you have any trailside troubles. Standard helmets attach with our LidLock system and side compression straps will fit your full face helmet. TOOL ROLL - Never dig for your tools again. The dedicated lower compartment holds a removable pouch to organize your tools so you can get back to what matters—the ride. RESERVOIR INCLUDED - Osprey Hydraulics LT 2.5L reservoir keeps you hydrated all day long and stores in a dedicated hydration compartment with direct-zip access and sternum strap magnetic bite valve. LIDLOCK - Attach your helmet securely to the outside of your pack without wasting the space inside. Perfect for wrapping up a long ride at your local brewery. RIDE STABILITY - Our new "winged" harness wraps the upper shoulders for added stability and keeps the pack comfortably close to your body. FEATURES - Countouring AirScape backpanel and bike-specific shape harness - Included Osprey Hydraulics LT 2.5L reservoir by Hydrapak - Hydration sleeve with direct-zip access and hose path for easy loading - Lightweight sternum strap magnet for easy access to water - Scratch-free, heat-embossed zippered slash pocket - Stretch mesh zippered hipbelt pockets - LidLock bike helmet attachment - Stretch mesh front pocket for quickly stashing extra gear - Blinker light attachment and reflective patch for safety - Removable roll-up tool pouch keeps tools handy and organized - Bike tool organization in main compartment - Front panel zippered stash pocket - Side compression straps double as a full face helmet carry AIRSCAPE SUSPENSION - Atilon foam framesheet allows dynamic body movement and distributes load across entire backpanel AIRSCAPE BACKPANEL - Mesh-covered, extra deep ridged foam allows maximum ventilation while keeping the load close to the body BIOSTRETCH HARNESS - Osprey engineered bike-specific harness with winged shoulder strap shape contours the shoulder providing superior comfort and stability - Soft breathable spacermesh contact surfaces and die-cut foam ventilation HIPBELT - Airmesh wrap hipbelt with zippered pockets provide stability and breathability"
SaltStick's Mini Dispenser is a unique lightweight water-resistant dispenser that holds up to 3 SaltStick electrolyte capsules so they're always with you and easy to access. The Mini is designed to take the place of your handlebar end plug and fit cleanly inside the bars. It can also be mounted in other places on the bicycle. And, thanks to its custom SaltStick GRIP fastener, it also mounts on race belts and backpacks. The Mini is made of safe food-grade plastic and keeps capsules clean and dry. It offers easy one-handed dispensing by simply rotating the nozzle. Plus, you can carry 2 or more Minis for a total capacity of 6 or more capsules. The Mini Dispenser is a patented design that's totally unique on the marketplace. It's a must-have for any endurance athlete.
Osprey’s Hydraulics LT 2.5L Reservoir by Hydrapak is made for light and fast activities where weight and balance are critical. Twin-welded chevron baffles stabilize the water and maintain a flat profile. The streamlined design allows for easy loading into internal hydration sleeves. Thoughtful design makes filling, cleaning and most importantly staying hydrated on the trail easier than ever. All parts are BPA-free, phthalate-free, lead-free, guaranteed. All materials are certified food safe according to FDA and EU regulations.
The Rib Cage II is not only a sleek, lightweight water bottle cage, but it's also been designed to be fast in the wind. Of course, it also performs its primary task of holding tight to bottles dutifully, so you won't be losing bottles when the road gets rough. - SWAT-compatible design allows for storage and tool integration. - Super-low bottle position improves the aerodynamic profile. - Tuned compression design provides a secure bottle retention with easy in-and-out accessibility. - Reinforced composite material improves durability without adding weight. - Sleek, minimalist design with razor-sharp graphics. - Accepts EMT Cage Mount MTB or Road Tool. - Accepts MTB XC Box (when used on compatible frames). - Weight: 33g
Osprey’s Hydraulics LT 1.5L Reservoir by Hydrapak is made for light and fast activities where weight and balance are critical. Twin-welded chevron baffles stabilize the water and maintain a flat profile. The streamlined design allows for easy loading into internal hydration sleeves. Thoughtful design makes filling, cleaning, and most importantly, staying hydrated on the trail easier than ever. All parts are BPA-free, phthalate-free, lead-free, guaranteed. All materials are certified food safe according to FDA and EU regulations.
The Bite Valve Cover keeps your reservoir bite valve free from dirt and dust on the trail.
The taste of water from a funky reservoir is high on the list of experiences that one should combat at all costs. This cleaning kit comes complete with a reservoir cleaning brush, delivery system brush, and a drying rack to help ward off uninvited microbial visitors looking to take up residence in your reservoir.
Quickly and efficiently take care of your aero hydration and computer holding needs with the Bontrager Speed Concept carbon Computer Cage. It allows bottle access while maintaining aero position and also incorporates an integrated bike computer mount. • Carbon fiber cage construction • Designed to be mounted to the Speed Concept Mono Extensions • Adjustable track mount system can mount to standard water bottle spacing and adjusted for perfect placement • Securely holds standard water bottles • Integrated computer mount will accept standard bar-mounted computer mounts • Adapter for SRM computer mounts included
Our Silicone Pint Glass is one such vessel that allows you to keep your colds cold and your hots hot. Plus, it’s virtually indestructible.
Osprey’s Hydraulics Bite Valve provides a high-quality replacement for your old, neglected and beat up bite valve. The bombproof ¼ twist shut-off design guarantees you won’t experience any unpleasant leaks.
Storage made simple Pack the essentials for every ride with the Bontrager Storage Bottle. It features secure storage for multi-tool, tubes, tire lever, CO2, and patch kit that easily fits in any standard water bottle cage. Key features - Wide opening for easy access - Fits in standard water bottle cages - Securely holds tools, CO2, spare tube, tire levers and more
$19.99 - $21.99
No matter what kind of fuel you sip to help you power your pedals, Electra's Linear Cup Holder will bring it along for the ride. It features a solid handlebar mount that's a breeze to install and classy, laser-etched anodized aluminum construction that firmly holds your beverage so you can use both hands to steer.
Replacing old bite valve sheaths helps maintain a sanitary hydration system. Osprey’s Bite Valve Sheaths provide a soft surface for your chompers to sink into when you’re hydrating on the fly. Also perfect for those who can’t help but chew through the bite valve like their old #2 pencils in high school.
Think outside the cage. Challenge convention with Fabric's cutting-edge cageless water bottle. Do away with bulky cages and keep your bike lightweight and clutter-free. The cageless system is the world's lightest, weighing only 3g. Two polyurethane studs slot into the bottle's molded mounts, keeping it secure over even the most demanding terrain. Each BPA free cageless bottle comes with two sets of studs. - BPA free - Mounts directly to bike - Fast flow valve - Patented design - Modular system
The Ratchet is the perfect all-around commuter or trail pack that expands on-demand for greater flexibility. With one zip of the expansion panel, your overall cargo volume expands over 4%. And whatever you’re carrying, the air-mesh harness, hip belt and adjustable sternum strap keep your load well-balanced and comfortable. Media pocket protects your smartphone, iPod, camera or other devices while keeping them close at hand. Reflective back strip with tab to click on a blinker for early morning and evening safety. 2L Antidote reservoir keeps you well hydrated.
Profile Design's Aerodrink Base Bar Bracket is the perfect holder for your Profile Aerodrink bottle. It weighs next to nothing and is built tough to firmly hold bottles and last for years of training and racing. It attaches quickly and easily to all Profile, and most other base handlebars (base bars and bottles sold separately).
Ditch the bags and give your kitchen some class. Skratch Labs’ Storage Mason Jar is a heavy-duty, solidly sealed container that holds up to 1.5 pounds of mix. Because Skratch doesn’t use any artificial ingredients or anti-caking compounds, natural clumping is a reality. The Storage Mason Jar protects against moisture and spilling, keeps your counter tops clean and orderly, and helps out the environment by providing years of quality use. If you live in a humid environment, give it a quick shake once in a while to keep the mix from clumping.
Contains all of the essential spare parts to freshen your Torpedo. - Includes: 2 Refill Lids, 2 Straw Plugs (Clear Solid and Black Slotted), Straw with Drink Valve and Dolphin Tail Screw.
When you need to keep your warm beverages hot and your cold beverages chilled, reach for the Trek Ride Bikes Have Fun Tumbler. It's perfect for any occasion and always reminds you to ride bikes, have fun, and feel good. - Stainless steel design - 20 fl oz (591ml) - Do not microwave - Hand washing and drying is recommended
Keep your hydration right between your arms and your computer at a glance. Easy-to-install system stacks hydration and ride data into one simple design. - Upgraded computer mount takes on rougher road conditions. 3X stiffer than original Kompact 100. - Just add your choice of beverage: Includes calibrated, squeeze-and-squirt Aqua-Shot Racing Bottle - SecureClip Brackets Install in an Instant: No ugly cable-ties, rubberbands or electrical tape needed to secure system: SecureClip brackets simply 'clip on' and Velcro down to aerobars - On top Garmin and Wahoo computer mount gives quick-glance bird's-eye-view of your cycling data - High-grip design holds bottles tight – yet bottle insertion and removal is easy All Inclusive System - Comes with everything you need – mounting plate, Garmin and Wahoo computer mount for Garmin bike computers or multisport watches, cage and bottle No-Fuss Installation, Comes Fully Assembled - No Zip-ties, rubber bands or need to concoct your own mounting solution required – simply clip-on and Velcro-down - Clean, 'snap' on XLAB SecureClip brackets eliminate rattling and shifting - Megadjust means the widest adjustment range available, fitting aerobars 70mm-150mm (center-to-center) apart Data Right Where You Need It - Designed for easy placement of Garmin bike computers, Garmin Forerunner and Fenix watches w/ Simple Quarter Turn interface, and Wahoo bike computers Rear Offset Design - While bulkier systems limit hand placement and force your hands into limited pockets – the short, compact design (just 145mm / 5.7in) clears the aerobars for more, comfortable hand positions - Reversible design easily allows for repositioning if you'd rather pull the bottle towards you than away. - Perfect for shorter aerobars – rear offset design moves bottle weight over stem and doesn't require a significant amount of space from your aerobars - Improves bike handling compared to systems that load weight onto aerobars Easy Glide Cage Design - Specially designed side cutouts enable fast bottle withdraw and entry. Available in black or red Drink Fast with Self-Sealing Nozzle - No need to open bottle nozzle with your teeth. Simply stop squeezing and the nozzle seals itself. - Compatibility: Wahoo and GARMIN-specific - Capacity: Includes 25oz (740ml) clear AQUA-SHOT bottle - Adjustment Range: 70mm-150mm (center-to-center) - Weight: 177g (without bottle or computer) - Length: 145mm/5.7 inches - Bottle Grip Force: 4lbs Construction - Bottle: Clear, lead free, BPA-Free and HDPE food safe certified bottle - Mounting Plate: Aluminum Alloy - Cage: Nylon Composite VULCAN CAGE - Brackets: Nylon Composite with Velcro Straps coated with non-slip extension grip Warranty: - 2 Year Limited Warranty
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If I could fast forward my life to the future, I would go to next year when my long-time work project will finish and I will be able to take long vacation to travel abroad. I wish to go to New Zealand:
Or I might visit my friend who is living in Virginia, and we can drive to NYC.
Or if I can’t take 2-weeks vacation, I may choose Tokyo instead.
Only I can take the time machine to reach that time.

domain: travel


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Fossil’s new Gen 6 Hybrid smartwatches feature SpO2 tracking and Alexa support
After launching the Skagen Falster Gen 6 and Razer x Fossil limited edition smartwatches earlier this year, Fossil has now announced two new smartwatches as part of its new Gen 6 Hybrid range. The new Fossil Gen 6 Hybrid smartwatches feature SpO2 tracking and Amazon Alexa support, along with other fitness tracking features.
According to a recent report from Android Authority, the new Fossil Gen 6 Hybrid range includes two designs — Machine and Stella. The Gen 6 Hybrid Machine comes in a single 45mm size variant with three color options — Black, Silver, and Smoke. On the other hand, the Gen 6 Hybrid Stella features a smaller 40.5mm case and three colorways — Rose Gold, Silver, and Two-tone. Both models include interchangeable bands, with the Machine supporting 24mm bands and the Stella supporting 18mm bands.
As far as features are concerned, the new Fossil Gen 6 Hybrid range offers support for blood oxygen monitoring, heart rate tracking, smart notifications, and customizable watch faces. As mentioned earlier, the watches also feature Amazon Alexa support and come with a built-in microphone to help users interact with the digital assistant.
Along with the new smartwatches, Fossil has also released a revamped version of its smartwatch companion app — Fossil Smartwatches. The updated app brings support for more personalization features and at-a-glance metrics, including a daily roundup of key details. If you own a Fossil Hybrid smartwatch, you can download the updated companion app from the Play Store link provided below. The app is also available on the Apple App Store.
The new Fossil Gen 6 Hybrid range will go on sale globally starting July 27. It will be available through Fossil’s website and offline retail stores. Both models will be available for a starting price of $229.
What do you think of Fossil’s new Gen 6 Hybrid smartwatches? Would you pick these over Wear OS smartwatches? Let us know in the comments section below.
Via: Android Authority


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Company Overview of Taeuber & Corssen SWA (Pty) Limited
Taeuber & Corssen SWA (Pty) Limited engages in distribution of fast-moving consumer goods, such as household detergents, personal care products, coffee, tea and creamers, chicken, fish, long life milk, infant formulas and nutritional products, cheese, butter, ice cream, frozen vegetables, pies, confectionary and biscuits, mineral water, and frozen meals. The company was founded in 1920 and is based in Windhoek, Namibia. As of December 1, 2011, Taeuber & Corssen SWA (Pty) Limited operates as a subsidiary of Bidvest Namibia Limited.
11 Ruhr Street
Northern Industrial Area
Founded in 1920
264 61 293 2000
264 61 293 2104
Key Executives for Taeuber & Corssen SWA (Pty) Limited
Taeuber & Corssen SWA (Pty) Limited does not have any Key Executives recorded.
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To contact Taeuber & Corssen SWA (Pty) Limited, please visit www.tc.com.na. Company data is provided by Capital IQ. Please use this form to report any data issues.


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Importance: Transmucosal immediate-release fentanyl (TIRF) drugs are potent, rapid-acting opioids approved to treat breakthrough pain in patients with cancer who are tolerant to other around-the-clock opioid analgesics. In March 2012, a US Food and Drug Administration-approved Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) was implemented, mandating prescribers, distributors, pharmacies, and patients to enroll in the REMS to prescribe, dispense, or receive TIRF drugs. Objective: To evaluate the association of the TIRF-REMS Access Program with TIRF prescribing. Design, Setting, and Participants: Cohort study using an interrupted time series analysis of TIRF prescriptions to Medicare Part D beneficiaries nationwide from 2010 to 2014. Data were analyzed from August 2017 through July 2018. Main Outcomes and Measures: Prescribing of TIRF per 100000 Medicare Part D beneficiaries, overall and stratified by cancer status; percentage of TIRF prescriptions for patients without cancer, overall and by brand; and percentage of TIRF prescriptions for patients without known opioid tolerance, defined as patients prescribed at least 60 morphine milligram equivalents per day, overall and by brand. Results: There were 99601 TIRF prescriptions written by 8619 clinicians to 10472 patients. Most of the patients (79%) were younger than 65 years (mean [SD] age, 56  years), and most (67%) did not have cancer. Implementation of TIRF-REMS was associated with a 26.7% relative level decrease in TIRF prescribing (95% CI, -33.3% to -19.4%; P <.001) but was followed by 2.0% monthly increases in prescribing (95% CI, 1.3% to 2.7%; P <.001). Sensitivity analyses that accounted for overall opioid prescribing trends were consistent with these findings. Furthermore, there were no significant changes associated with REMS implementation in the level (0.47%; 95% CI, -5.36% to 4.69%; P =.85) or trend (0.16%; 95% CI, -0.06% to 0.37%; P =.15) of the percentage of prescriptions for patients without cancer. However, a sensitivity analysis that used a broader cancer definition found implementation was associated with a 7.2% (95% CI, -13.5% to -0.48%; P =.04) level decrease in the percentage of TIRF prescriptions for patients without cancer. Lastly, the TIRF-REMS was associated with a 22.5% level decline in the percentage of TIRF prescriptions for patients without known opioid tolerance (95% CI, -36.1% to -5.95%; P =.01) followed by 1.98% monthly decreases (95% CI, -3.19% to -0.80%; P =.001). Conclusions and Relevance: Implementation of the TIRF-REMS Access Program, a restrictive drug distribution program, was associated with a temporary reduction in the rate of TIRF prescribing to Medicare Part D beneficiaries, and with a sustained decrease in the percentage of TIRF prescriptions for patients without known opioid tolerance. Implementation may have also been associated with a temporary decrease in the percentage of TIRF prescriptions for patients without cancer.
ASJC Scopus subject areas

domain: medical


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Summary of Proposal
The 1961 Single Convention on Drugs is the primary treaty that focuses on suppressing the drug trade through criminalization of the cultivation, production, and distribution of purposes. Not only have harsh enforcement-base measures shown to be flatly ineffective in reducing drug use and/or drug markets, but human rights abuses in the name of “enforcement” are carried out every day under this system. However, for legal and geopolitical reasons, the Single Convention and its progeny are almost impossible to change. In the 60 years since the adoption of the Single Convention – and particularly in the last decade – the dialogue at the UN around drugs has changed exponentially. Member State delegates are now more likely to discuss the need to prioritize public health and human rights approaches than ever before, but the international drug control treaties remain stuck in the past. It is clear that something is needed to align the treaty system with the stated priorities of Member States – and with the Single Convention”s central purpose of protecting the “health and welfare of [hu]mankind”. IDLARC proposes the adoption of a new supplemental treaty that would commit the international community to honor public health and human rights obligations around drugs and drug policy-making.
This proposed treaty:
International drug control treaties form the basis for the international drug control system at the United Nations. The 1961 Single Convention on Drugs (as amended by the 1972 Protocol) is the primary treaty that focuses on the suppression of the drug trade through criminalization of the cultivation, production, and distribution of certain substances (primarily cannabis, opiates, and cocaine) for non-medical and nonscientific purposes. Article 36 of the Convention mandates that offenses involving cultivation and manufacture of drugs must be punishable offenses, when serious, by “imprisonment or other penalties of deprivation of liberty” 1961 Single Convention on Drugs (as amended by the 1972 Protocol) Under this convention and its progeny, the 1971 Convention on Psyochotropic Substances and the 1988 Convention Against Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances, egregious human rights abuses continue to be carried out in the name of drug control, including forced labor, torture, extrajudicial killings, racial profiling, forced separation of families, disproportionately harsh prison sentences, blatant discrimination against people of color, denial of access to essential medicines and the death penalty. The 1961 Single Convention on Drugs is firmly entrenched within the UN system, with no member states directly calling for its reform. One reason this treaty has been so difficult to reform is that under the consensus-based system, any objection can effectively derail its amendment, thus creating incredible pressure to conform.
Although few member states have directly challenged this treaty, there has been widespread criticism of the enforcement-based approach that has emerged under the Single Convention from civil society (or “NGOs” ), academia, and those working in the field. Moreover, it is clear that this approach has been ineffective in reducing drug use and drug markets, even according to the United Nations”#own reporting. In the recent World Drug Report, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) reported not only that drug use has increased, but the range of available drugs has expanded and the drug market itself is “thriving.” Every year, the Commission on Narcotic Drugs (CND) meets to discuss policies and to adopt a series of non-binding resolutions and declarations, many of which address human rights and public health-based policies. Dialogue at the UN has changed exponentially over the past decade. “Harm reduction” and “decriminalization” were considered forbidden phrases in the early 2000s, but are now increasingly heard both among member states and UN officials. Member state delegates are now more likely to discuss the need for public health and human rights approaches in their negotiations than ever before. However, the only “binding” instruments are focused on criminal enforcement, while public health and human rights-based measures remain voluntary to member states. This does not reflect the need to prioritize public health and human rights obligations around global drug policy-making.
The international drug treaty system is in dire need of modernization. As amendment of the Single Convention is not viable, so IDLARC proposes the adoption of a new supplemental treaty that would commit the international community to honor public health and human rights obligations around drugs and drug policy-making. The proposed supplemental treaty is practical as well as achievable. The treaty would align the UN system with the priorities stated by member states, and make binding the many public health and human rights-based provisions contained in the various non-binding resolutions and declarations. Also, since many of the provisions have already been agreed by member states, there would be no basis for objection, meaning that member states would be free to join the treaty without violating their obligations under the existing system.
Finally, this new treaty is solidly supported by precedent as history is replete with examples of such change, both within and outside the drug control system. The proposed supplemental treaty is practical as well as achievable. The treaty would align the UN system with the priorities stated by member states, and make binding the many public health and human rights-based provisions contained in the various non-binding resolutions and declarations. Also, since many of the provisions have already been agreed by member states, there would be no basis for objection, meaning that member states would be free to join the treaty without violating their obligations under the existing system. Finally, this new treaty is solidly supported by precedent as history is replete with examples of such change, both within and outside the drug control system.
Box A: Historical Precedent for “Supplemental Treaties” Within the drugs arena:
The 1936 Convention on Trafficking
• One of the best examples of treaty supplementation within the history of international drug control, this treaty was adopted to “supplement” the then-current system in order to strengthen the earlier treaties”#criminal enforcement provisions, which were seen as not “robust” enough to address the growing problem of international traffickers who were thought to be taking advantage of uneven domestic laws.
• The 1936 Trafficking Convention was adopted to instill a measure of unification of national penal codes, thereby “filling the gaps” in the earlier treaties.
• Marked a turning point in refocusing the system in a different direction (albeit towards heavier criminal punishment, not lighter).
Outside of the drugs arena: “Mine Ban Convention” – 1997
• The “Ottawa Process” started with a meeting of a core group of Member States in response to frustration with earlier treaties that stopped short of banning “anti-personnel mines,” despite pressure from a growing movement including governments, civil society, and the UN Secretary-General.
• Led by Canada and supported by 10 countries including Mexico, Switzerland and certain European countries who achieved their goal 12 months later, when the final text of the Mine Ban Treaty was tabled by Canada on behalf of 106 co-sponsoring Member States, prohibiting the use of inhumane anti-personnel mine bans.
“Convention on Cluster Munitions” – 2008
• The “Oslo Process” began after a series of conferences held within the framework review process for treaties governing the use of conventional weapons (CCW) failed to address humanitarian law issues around the use of cluster munitions (weapons that spread deadly “bomblets” upon impact).
• The Oslo Process was led by Norway, which had decided to organize an international conference outside the CCW review process to work towards an international ban on cluster munitions, which had disastrous and unacceptable humanitarian consequences.
• Norway was joined by 6 countries including Mexico, Austria and Ireland and was supported by UN agencies and civil society (NGOs). By the fifth conference the group had grown to 107 Member States, and a convention was adopted by 94 Member States two years after the Oslo Process had begun.
In the case of the Mine Ban Convention and the Convention on Cluster Munitions, a core group of Member States, dissatisfied with the progress of a line of treaties and urged on by sustained efforts of NGOs, banded together to draft a treaty that would provide needed supplements to each of the relevant treaty systems, thereby updating them and correcting each of their deficiencies. Other examples are found in the Forced Labour Convention of 1930 (supplemented in 1957 and 2014) – modernized to eliminate several exceptions to abolishment and ban additional practices such as debt bondage, serfdom, servile marriage and child servitude.
From Punishment to People-Centered”: Proposal for a New International Drug

domain: sociology