Second blogger hacked to death in Dhaka - World News | IOL News: ""Police on duty near the spot caught two attackers red-handed with three machetes as they were fleeing the scene after the incident," police official Humayan Kabir told Reuters.
The killing comes just weeks after US secular blogger Avijit Roy was hacked to death while returning with his wife from a book fair in Dhaka. His wife, Rafida Bonya Ahmed, suffered head injuries and lost a finger in the February 26 attack.
The attacks come amidst a period of political turmoil in the country, with the government and main opposition group locked in a months-long standoff that has created a sense of deepening insecurity across the country.
In recent years, a string of secular-minded writers have been targeted by religious militants in Bangladesh as the government has tried to crackdown on hardline Islamist groups seeking to create a Sharia-based state in the nation.
Blogger Ahmed Rajib Haider was killed in 2013 near his home in Dhaka after he led a protest demanding capital punishment for Islamist leaders convicted of war crimes during Bangladesh's war for independence.
In 2004, Humayun Azad, a secular writer and professor at Dhaka University, was also attacked by militants while returning home from a Dhaka book fair. He later died in Germany while undergoing treatment."
'via Blog this'
Tuesday, March 31, 2015
Malaysia arrests three news editors for sedition: police | Reuters
Malaysia arrests three news editors for sedition: police | Reuters: "(Reuters) - Police have arrested three editors from a Malaysian news portal and charged them with sedition, their lawyers and authorities said on Tuesday, over a news report on discussions about punishments meted out under Islamic law.
The offices of The Malaysian Insider portal were raided by police and officials from the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) late on Monday.
Managing editor Lionel Morais, features editor Zulkifli Sulong and Malay news editor Amin Iskandar were taken into custody and several computers and other items were confiscated.
Authorities in socially conservative Malaysia have conducted a series of arrests since last August for sedition, detaining opposition politicians, activists, and academics. Nurul Izzah Anwar, the daughter of jailed opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim, was arrested for sedition this month over a speech made in parliament.
The latest arrests were over an article that said the Confederation of Rulers - Malaysia's monarchy - had rejected a proposal to amend a federal law that could allow the use of the Islamic punishment, hudud, in Malaysia."
'via Blog this'
The offices of The Malaysian Insider portal were raided by police and officials from the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) late on Monday.
Managing editor Lionel Morais, features editor Zulkifli Sulong and Malay news editor Amin Iskandar were taken into custody and several computers and other items were confiscated.
Authorities in socially conservative Malaysia have conducted a series of arrests since last August for sedition, detaining opposition politicians, activists, and academics. Nurul Izzah Anwar, the daughter of jailed opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim, was arrested for sedition this month over a speech made in parliament.
The latest arrests were over an article that said the Confederation of Rulers - Malaysia's monarchy - had rejected a proposal to amend a federal law that could allow the use of the Islamic punishment, hudud, in Malaysia."
'via Blog this'
Portraits of Powerful Women on the Streets of Senegal
Portraits of Powerful Women on the Streets of Senegal: "French street artist YZ has begun a striking new series of portraits in Senegal. The project title, Amazone, refers to the Dahomey Amazons, a group of Fon female warriors who fought for the Kingdom of Dahomey (present-day Republic of Benin) from the 17th through the 19th centuries. The name “Amazon” was European-given, an allusion to Greek mythology. The Dahomey Amazons fought against the French in the First Franco-Dahomean War, which ended in Dahomey becoming a French colonial territory. YZ’s Amazone series portrays not only known historical figures, including some of the Amazones and Senegalese anti-colonialist Aline Sitoe Diatta, but also anonymous women — an homage to lost histories of female power.
Amazone is refreshing for its offering of powerful images of nonsexualized women in public space. Pictures of women in public these days usually come from advertising, which throughout the world tends to present them as stereotypical, sexy shells of persons, not as individuals. The positive message of YZ’s series is compounded by the historical nature of the portraits, complicating a notion of the past as simply the story of powerful men."
'via Blog this'
Amazone is refreshing for its offering of powerful images of nonsexualized women in public space. Pictures of women in public these days usually come from advertising, which throughout the world tends to present them as stereotypical, sexy shells of persons, not as individuals. The positive message of YZ’s series is compounded by the historical nature of the portraits, complicating a notion of the past as simply the story of powerful men."
'via Blog this'
Monday, March 30, 2015
California biohackers create night vision eye drops | Science! | Geek.com
California biohackers create night vision eye drops | Science! | Geek.com: "California scientists have developed eye drops that grant night vision.
The Tehachapi-based, independent “citizen science” group Science for the Masses created the sellable superpower after researching a natural molecule called Chlorin e6. Ce6 allows certain deep sea fish to see in the dark, and if Spider-Man has taught us anything other than what comes with great power, it’s that scientifically transferring animal abilities to humans is always awesome. Fortunately, the molecule can also easily by extracted from plants like algae, and it’s already used in some cancer treatments, so it’s proven human-safe."
'via Blog this'
The Tehachapi-based, independent “citizen science” group Science for the Masses created the sellable superpower after researching a natural molecule called Chlorin e6. Ce6 allows certain deep sea fish to see in the dark, and if Spider-Man has taught us anything other than what comes with great power, it’s that scientifically transferring animal abilities to humans is always awesome. Fortunately, the molecule can also easily by extracted from plants like algae, and it’s already used in some cancer treatments, so it’s proven human-safe."
'via Blog this'
Friday, March 27, 2015
3 ways to engage, empower and activate environmentally minded youth | Devex
3 ways to engage, empower and activate environmentally minded youth | Devex: "I co-founded and run an environmental education and youth leadership nonprofit called EarthEcho International. While some may think that makes me biased on the subjects of youth and environment, I would argue it just makes me well-informed. You see, when we first started EarthEcho more than 10 years ago, we — like many other environmental organizations — thought awareness was the key. We soon discovered that young people possess a curiosity and drive that requires more than simple awareness — they want to take action, they want to have an impact. And that’s where the rest of us come in.
As environmental advocates, educators, community and corporate leaders and citizens, there are three things we can do to help young learners and leaders have a profound impact on the environment and the future: engage, empower and activate."
'via Blog this'
As environmental advocates, educators, community and corporate leaders and citizens, there are three things we can do to help young learners and leaders have a profound impact on the environment and the future: engage, empower and activate."
'via Blog this'
Thursday, March 26, 2015
The 50 smartest private high schools in the US - Business Insider
The 50 smartest private high schools in the US - Business Insider: "Beautiful campuses and strong athletics are important, but for the best schools, it always comes down to the academics.
Our friends at Niche created a list of the smartest private high schools in America.
Niche determined the bulk of the rankings by weighing each school’s composite SAT/ACT score, the average score of the colleges attended by graduates, and the percentage of graduates who go on to attend a four-year college. You can read more about Niche’s methodology here.
Here are the top 50 schools, presented with their composite SAT range, which refers to the range of SAT scores that correspond with the school’s composite ACT score."
'via Blog this'
Our friends at Niche created a list of the smartest private high schools in America.
Niche determined the bulk of the rankings by weighing each school’s composite SAT/ACT score, the average score of the colleges attended by graduates, and the percentage of graduates who go on to attend a four-year college. You can read more about Niche’s methodology here.
Here are the top 50 schools, presented with their composite SAT range, which refers to the range of SAT scores that correspond with the school’s composite ACT score."
'via Blog this'
California Seeks to Head Off Initiative to Execute Gays - NYTimes.com
California Seeks to Head Off Initiative to Execute Gays - NYTimes.com: "“It is my sworn duty to uphold the California and United States Constitutions and to protect the rights of all Californians,” she said. “This proposal not only threatens public safety, it is patently unconstitutional, utterly reprehensible and has no place in a civil society.”
The highly unusual announcement by Ms. Harris — by all appearances, California law gives no discretion to the attorney general in handling these kind of initiatives — comes as gay groups and others have called on her to block the measure. Ms. Harris, who was just elected to a second term, announced earlier this year that she would run for the Senate in 2016.
In her statement, Ms. Harris signaled her absence of legal options as she threw the ball to the courts. “If the court does not grant this relief,” she said, “my office will be forced to issue a title and summary for a proposal that seeks to legalize discrimination and vigilantism.”"
'via Blog this'
The highly unusual announcement by Ms. Harris — by all appearances, California law gives no discretion to the attorney general in handling these kind of initiatives — comes as gay groups and others have called on her to block the measure. Ms. Harris, who was just elected to a second term, announced earlier this year that she would run for the Senate in 2016.
In her statement, Ms. Harris signaled her absence of legal options as she threw the ball to the courts. “If the court does not grant this relief,” she said, “my office will be forced to issue a title and summary for a proposal that seeks to legalize discrimination and vigilantism.”"
'via Blog this'
Wednesday, March 25, 2015
Detail | FAO | Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations
Detail | FAO | Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations: "Six countries in Asia are taking the lead in collaboration with the UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization to deliver “blue growth” – a regional initiative which aims to promote the intensification of aquaculture production in an ecological and sustainable way, FAO officials announced today.
The six countries, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Philippines, Sri Lanka, Timor-Leste and Viet Nam are taking the lead to pilot plans to upgrade aquaculture in order to help meet the food security needs of a growing global population – expected to top nine billion people by 2050.
“The work of these six countries in this regional initiative, and their outcomes, will be pivotal in finding ways to increase food production sustainably – something we must do in the course of the next generation – if we are to meet the needs and expectations of a seafood-hungry planet,” said Hiroyuki Konuma, FAO Assistant Director-General and Regional Representative.
“FAO predicts that by 2050 the world will need to increase food production by an average of 60 percent globally and 77 percent in developing countries,” Konuma said. “Changing diets are also increasing demand for more fish. But further intensification of aquaculture must be ecologically sustainable – we must achieve ‘Blue Growth’.”"
'via Blog this'
The six countries, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Philippines, Sri Lanka, Timor-Leste and Viet Nam are taking the lead to pilot plans to upgrade aquaculture in order to help meet the food security needs of a growing global population – expected to top nine billion people by 2050.
“The work of these six countries in this regional initiative, and their outcomes, will be pivotal in finding ways to increase food production sustainably – something we must do in the course of the next generation – if we are to meet the needs and expectations of a seafood-hungry planet,” said Hiroyuki Konuma, FAO Assistant Director-General and Regional Representative.
“FAO predicts that by 2050 the world will need to increase food production by an average of 60 percent globally and 77 percent in developing countries,” Konuma said. “Changing diets are also increasing demand for more fish. But further intensification of aquaculture must be ecologically sustainable – we must achieve ‘Blue Growth’.”"
'via Blog this'
Monday, March 23, 2015
7 Things To Do If You're Feeling Overwhelmed - Forbes
7 Things To Do If You're Feeling Overwhelmed - Forbes: "Here’s a suggestion: make sure that everyone in a meeting knows “TTOG” – topic, time, owner, goal. That is, What are we talking about? How long are we going to spend on it? Who’s responsible for it? (that is, who’s ‘on point’ for moving it forward), and – this one’s important – Why are we discussing it? If you make a habit of clarifying these things (or asking others to clarify it for meetings they own) everyone’s time will be much better spent."
'via Blog this'
'via Blog this'
The longest-lived animals on Earth, in one chart - Vox
The longest-lived animals on Earth, in one chart - Vox: "When you think of animals that can live a really long time, you probably think of tortoises and parrots.
The ocean quahog — a species of clam that lives in the North Atlantic — likely doesn't come to mind.
But this chart by Niall McCarthy, based off data collected by Discovery News, shows an interesting point: almost all of the longest-lived animals on Earth are in the ocean. And several of them can survive for two centuries or more."
/cdn0.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/3523734/chartoftheday_3328_The_Planet_s_Longest_Living_Animals_n.0.jpg)
'via Blog this'
The ocean quahog — a species of clam that lives in the North Atlantic — likely doesn't come to mind.
But this chart by Niall McCarthy, based off data collected by Discovery News, shows an interesting point: almost all of the longest-lived animals on Earth are in the ocean. And several of them can survive for two centuries or more."
'via Blog this'
A lawyer in California is pushing a ballot measure to legalize killing gay people - Vox
A lawyer in California is pushing a ballot measure to legalize killing gay people - Vox: "A California lawyer proposed a ballot initiative to legalize the execution of gay and lesbian people in the state.
The measure isn't expected to end up on the ballot, since it's clearly unconstitutional, but it's drawing attention to California's bizarre ballot initiative process.
California's attorney general is likely required by law to clear the initiative. But the state's Supreme Court is likely to step in and stop the measure, particularly if the proposal gets enough signatures to qualify for the ballot.
"
'via Blog this'
The measure isn't expected to end up on the ballot, since it's clearly unconstitutional, but it's drawing attention to California's bizarre ballot initiative process.
California's attorney general is likely required by law to clear the initiative. But the state's Supreme Court is likely to step in and stop the measure, particularly if the proposal gets enough signatures to qualify for the ballot.
"
'via Blog this'
A judge struck down Nebraska's same-sex marriage ban. Here's where each state stands. - Vox
A judge struck down Nebraska's same-sex marriage ban. Here's where each state stands. - Vox: "On March 2, a federal judge struck down Nebraska's same-sex marriage ban. But, on March 5, the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals put the decision on hold as it works through the appeals process.
Since 2013, when the Supreme Court struck down the federal ban on same-sex marriage, lower courts have followed with their own decisions effectively ending same-sex marriage bans in several states. As the nation waits for a looming Supreme Court decision on marriage equality, lower courts' rulings have continued coming in.
As the decisions pile up, it can get a little difficult to track which same-sex marriage bans are legally valid and which have been overturned. This simple list tracks where each state stands."
'via Blog this'
Since 2013, when the Supreme Court struck down the federal ban on same-sex marriage, lower courts have followed with their own decisions effectively ending same-sex marriage bans in several states. As the nation waits for a looming Supreme Court decision on marriage equality, lower courts' rulings have continued coming in.
As the decisions pile up, it can get a little difficult to track which same-sex marriage bans are legally valid and which have been overturned. This simple list tracks where each state stands."
'via Blog this'
Commander of his stage: Lee Kuan Yew | The Economist
Commander of his stage: Lee Kuan Yew | The Economist: "THERE was no vainglory in the title of the first volume of Lee Kuan Yew’s memoirs: “The Singapore Story”. Few leaders have so embodied and dominated their countries: Fidel Castro, perhaps, and Kim Il Sung, in their day. But both of those signally failed to match Mr Lee’s achievement in propelling Singapore “From Third World to First” (as the second volume is called). Moreover, he managed it against far worse odds: no space, beyond a crowded little island; no natural resources; and, as an island of polyglot immigrants, not much shared history. The search for a common heritage may have been why, in the 1990s, Mr Lee’s Singapore championed “Asian values”. By then, Singapore was the most Westernised place in Asia.
Mr Lee himself, whose anglophile grandfather had added “Harry” to his Chinese name, was once called by George Brown, a British foreign secretary, “the best bloody Englishman east of Suez”. He was proud of his success in colonial society. He was a star student in pre-war Singapore, and, after an interlude during the Japanese occupation of Singapore from 1942-45, again at the London School of Economics (LSE) and Cambridge. He and his wife, Kwa Geok Choo, both got firsts in law."
'via Blog this'
Mr Lee himself, whose anglophile grandfather had added “Harry” to his Chinese name, was once called by George Brown, a British foreign secretary, “the best bloody Englishman east of Suez”. He was proud of his success in colonial society. He was a star student in pre-war Singapore, and, after an interlude during the Japanese occupation of Singapore from 1942-45, again at the London School of Economics (LSE) and Cambridge. He and his wife, Kwa Geok Choo, both got firsts in law."
'via Blog this'
Singapore's Founding Father and First Premier Lee Kuan Yew Dies at 91
Singapore's Founding Father and First Premier Lee Kuan Yew Dies at 91: "Lee Kuan Yew, prime minister of Singapore from 1959—when the country attained full self-government from the British—until 1990, has died, The New York Times reports. According to a statement, he passed away "peacefully" at the Singapore General Hospital early Monday morning.
Singapore has been praised for its lack of corruption and gently criticized for its limits on free speech."
'via Blog this'
Singapore has been praised for its lack of corruption and gently criticized for its limits on free speech."
'via Blog this'
Friday, March 20, 2015
New law will open access to adoptees' birth certificates - seattlepi.com
New law will open access to adoptees' birth certificates - seattlepi.com: "COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — Thousands of Ohio adoptees are hoping to learn more about their history, including family medical information, thanks to a law granting them access to their adoption files and birth certificates.
Beginning Friday, individuals adopted between January 1, 1964, and September 18, 1996, can request the information from the Ohio Department of Health. The new law is expected to give about 400,000 people access to records which had been largely blocked without a court order."
'via Blog this'
Beginning Friday, individuals adopted between January 1, 1964, and September 18, 1996, can request the information from the Ohio Department of Health. The new law is expected to give about 400,000 people access to records which had been largely blocked without a court order."
'via Blog this'
Thursday, March 19, 2015
How can we empower women in agriculture to end hunger? | Global Development Professionals Network | The Guardian
How can we empower women in agriculture to end hunger? | Global Development Professionals Network | The Guardian: "If we’re going to end hunger in our lifetimes, we need to empower women. The statistics are well-known. Women make up to half of the agricultural labour force in many developing countries, but barriers to credit, inputs and extension services, as well as land ownership and rights, limit their production.
We already know that if women had equal access to productive resources, they could increase their yields and feed more hungry people in the world. And women are more likely to reinvest their income back into their families to improve education, nutrition and health. When women flourish, families and communities do too.
What’s not as well-known is how the development community can effectively help women overcome the constraints and barriers they face in agriculture so they can fully benefit from agricultural growth. In essence, we know we need to empower women if we are to end hunger, but we don’t always know how best to do that."
'via Blog this'
We already know that if women had equal access to productive resources, they could increase their yields and feed more hungry people in the world. And women are more likely to reinvest their income back into their families to improve education, nutrition and health. When women flourish, families and communities do too.
What’s not as well-known is how the development community can effectively help women overcome the constraints and barriers they face in agriculture so they can fully benefit from agricultural growth. In essence, we know we need to empower women if we are to end hunger, but we don’t always know how best to do that."
'via Blog this'
Ivory Coast PM targets 'double-digit' growth this year - Yahoo News
Ivory Coast PM targets 'double-digit' growth this year - Yahoo News: "Geneva (AFP) - Ivory Coast, the world's top cocoa producer whose economy was battered by a low-level civil war and ensuing political unrest, should see double-digit growth this year, Prime Minister Daniel Kablan Duncan told AFP.
The west African country, which emerged from a bloody crisis less than four years ago, has seen its economy expand on average 9.0 percent since 2012, and this year "we want to reach a double-digit growth," Duncan said.
"We are ambitious in Cote d'Ivoire," he said, adding that he expected the country to maintain its high growth rates for years to come."
'via Blog this'
The west African country, which emerged from a bloody crisis less than four years ago, has seen its economy expand on average 9.0 percent since 2012, and this year "we want to reach a double-digit growth," Duncan said.
"We are ambitious in Cote d'Ivoire," he said, adding that he expected the country to maintain its high growth rates for years to come."
'via Blog this'
Tunisian Parliament Calls Day of Solidarity After Deadly Attack
Tunisian Parliament Calls Day of Solidarity After Deadly Attack: "Tunisia's parliament called for a day of solidarity after gunmen opened fire at one of the capital's top tourism sites, killing 19 people and wounding more than 40 others.
"The target of the attack was the parliament and the national museum," said Parliament President Mohamed Enaceur during a special session late Wednesday. "These are symbols and this attack was a message to tell us that terrorism today has changed in that it has a presence in the city and is eyeing our national symbols.""
'via Blog this'
"The target of the attack was the parliament and the national museum," said Parliament President Mohamed Enaceur during a special session late Wednesday. "These are symbols and this attack was a message to tell us that terrorism today has changed in that it has a presence in the city and is eyeing our national symbols.""
'via Blog this'
Senegal leader Macky Sall offers to reduce presidential term as 'example to Africa' | World news | The Guardian
Senegal leader Macky Sall offers to reduce presidential term as 'example to Africa' | World news | The Guardian: "Senegal’s President Macky Sall on Tuesday proposed a referendum on reducing his mandate by two years, a stance in contrast to several fellow African leaders criticised for clinging to power.
The pledge came with countries including Benin, Rwanda, Burundi and Congo-Brazzaville all said to be considering constitutional change to allow their leaders a third term in office.
“I was elected for seven years (but) next year, I will propose the organisation of a referendum for the reduction of my mandate,” he told a news conference with foreign media in Dakar.
The move would allow “a revision of the constitution, first on the mandate and then on some other aspects to strengthen our democracy”, he said, adding that he wanted the vote to take place in May next year."
'via Blog this'
The pledge came with countries including Benin, Rwanda, Burundi and Congo-Brazzaville all said to be considering constitutional change to allow their leaders a third term in office.
“I was elected for seven years (but) next year, I will propose the organisation of a referendum for the reduction of my mandate,” he told a news conference with foreign media in Dakar.
The move would allow “a revision of the constitution, first on the mandate and then on some other aspects to strengthen our democracy”, he said, adding that he wanted the vote to take place in May next year."
'via Blog this'
UVA student from Chicago at center of police brutality allegation - Chicago Tribune
UVA student from Chicago at center of police brutality allegation - Chicago Tribune: "UVA President Teresa A. Sullivan said in an email to the campus community that she had "deep concern about an incident" and asked Virginia Gov. Terry McAuliffe for an independent investigation.
McAuliffe's office issued a statement asking state police to investigate "the use of force in this matter."
In its own statement, Virginia’s ABC said that "uniformed ABC Agents observed and approached" an unidentified individual "after he was refused entry to a licensed establishment" around 12:45 a.m. at an area of bars and restaurants near campus known as "the Corner.""
'via Blog this'
McAuliffe's office issued a statement asking state police to investigate "the use of force in this matter."
In its own statement, Virginia’s ABC said that "uniformed ABC Agents observed and approached" an unidentified individual "after he was refused entry to a licensed establishment" around 12:45 a.m. at an area of bars and restaurants near campus known as "the Corner.""
'via Blog this'
Wednesday, March 18, 2015
California community college system signs transfer deal with nine HBCUs @insidehighered
California community college system signs transfer deal with nine HBCUs @insidehighered: "California’s 112-campus community college system is making it easier for graduates to attend historically black colleges and universities across the country.
The system is launching a new program that guarantees students admission to nine HBCUs if they graduate with an associate degree. The deal allows a student with 60 community college credits to enter the historically black colleges as a junior.
The deal serves twin goals. It helps two-year students from California find a place to get a four-year degree if they want to leave the state. It also helps historically black colleges find students as some struggle with enrollment declines. "
'via Blog this'
The system is launching a new program that guarantees students admission to nine HBCUs if they graduate with an associate degree. The deal allows a student with 60 community college credits to enter the historically black colleges as a junior.
The deal serves twin goals. It helps two-year students from California find a place to get a four-year degree if they want to leave the state. It also helps historically black colleges find students as some struggle with enrollment declines. "
'via Blog this'
6.2-magnitude earthquake hits Indonesia | Bangkok Post: news
6.2-magnitude earthquake hits Indonesia | Bangkok Post: news: "JAKARTA - An undersea earthquake with 6.2 magnitude hit Indonesia's North Maluku province on Wednesday but did not trigger a tsunami warning, disaster officials said.
There were no immediate reports of damage or injuries, said Sutopo Purwo Nugroho, spokesman for the National Disaster Management Agency.
People in West Halmahera, and in Ternate and Maluku - two cities in North Maluku province - felt a strong jolt for three to five seconds, Nugroho said."
'via Blog this'
There were no immediate reports of damage or injuries, said Sutopo Purwo Nugroho, spokesman for the National Disaster Management Agency.
People in West Halmahera, and in Ternate and Maluku - two cities in North Maluku province - felt a strong jolt for three to five seconds, Nugroho said."
'via Blog this'
Tuesday, March 17, 2015
California Judges Must Cut Ties With The Boy Scouts : NPR
California Judges Must Cut Ties With The Boy Scouts : NPR: "California has banned state court judges from belonging to the Boy Scouts. The move extends an earlier ban on judges belonging to groups that discriminate on the basis of sexual orientation, but had an exemption for youth groups. Judges have one year to sever their ties with the Boy Scouts.
Judges are already banned from joining lots of groups that other people can belong to. For example, they can't be members of country clubs that don't admit Jews or women."
'via Blog this'
Judges are already banned from joining lots of groups that other people can belong to. For example, they can't be members of country clubs that don't admit Jews or women."
'via Blog this'
Malaysia’s Creeping Authoritarianism - WSJ
Malaysia’s Creeping Authoritarianism - WSJ: "Malaysian politics are moving down a dark path. A month after the country's highest court upheld the conviction of opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim on trumped-up charges of sodomy, police on Monday arrested Mr. Anwar’s daughter for violating the Sedition Act, a colonial-era law increasingly used to chill political debate.
Nurul Izzah Anwar’s apparent offense was to criticize the judiciary last week in Parliament, where she is opposition vice president. In addition to reading a statement from her father condemning his trial as a political conspiracy, Ms. Nurul Izzah condemned Malaysia’s Federal Court for “bowing to political masters” and being “partners in a crime that contributed to the death of a free judiciary.”"
'via Blog this'
Nurul Izzah Anwar’s apparent offense was to criticize the judiciary last week in Parliament, where she is opposition vice president. In addition to reading a statement from her father condemning his trial as a political conspiracy, Ms. Nurul Izzah condemned Malaysia’s Federal Court for “bowing to political masters” and being “partners in a crime that contributed to the death of a free judiciary.”"
'via Blog this'
With iCow and M-Farm, smartphones reboot African agriculture | Top News | Reuters
With iCow and M-Farm, smartphones reboot African agriculture | Top News | Reuters: "The growth of Africa's middle-class combined with a fall in the prices of technology has opened up opportunities for investment in farms on the world's poorest continent.
"Africa is key to global food supply and we need to unlock its potential," said Mark Davies, a dotcom veteran who runs Esoko, which provides advice to farmers and links them with traders in a virtual marketplace.
Esoko charges farmers $1 a month to use the service and businesses pay between $3,000-$20,000 annually. Other apps recently launched include a Kenyan cattle-monitoring app called iCow and online marketplace M-Farm, which has partnered with Samsung.
By 2025, half of Africa's 1 billion population will have Internet access and there will be 360 million smartphones on the continent, according to McKinsey consultants.
Internet technology could increase annual agricultural productivity in Africa by $3 billion-a-year, McKinsey says."
'via Blog this'
"Africa is key to global food supply and we need to unlock its potential," said Mark Davies, a dotcom veteran who runs Esoko, which provides advice to farmers and links them with traders in a virtual marketplace.
Esoko charges farmers $1 a month to use the service and businesses pay between $3,000-$20,000 annually. Other apps recently launched include a Kenyan cattle-monitoring app called iCow and online marketplace M-Farm, which has partnered with Samsung.
By 2025, half of Africa's 1 billion population will have Internet access and there will be 360 million smartphones on the continent, according to McKinsey consultants.
Internet technology could increase annual agricultural productivity in Africa by $3 billion-a-year, McKinsey says."
'via Blog this'
Monday, March 16, 2015
Cities of Sunnyvale, Cupertino, Los Altos, and Mt. View look to continue trail connection study - San Jose Mercury News
Cities of Sunnyvale, Cupertino, Los Altos, and Mt. View look to continue trail connection study - San Jose Mercury News: "A joint-city study that trailed off in 2014 is returning later this month.
The cities of Sunnyvale, Cupertino, Los Altos, and Mountain View are back to studying ways to bridge gaps in the Stevens Creek trail system for bicyclists. Discussion with residents and a long-awaited feasibility study could be coming to all four communities in the coming days.
The years-in-the-making feasibility study initially saw the four cities team up in 2012 to consider various ways and alternatives for connecting a series of trails alongside or near the miles-long creek."
'via Blog this'
The cities of Sunnyvale, Cupertino, Los Altos, and Mountain View are back to studying ways to bridge gaps in the Stevens Creek trail system for bicyclists. Discussion with residents and a long-awaited feasibility study could be coming to all four communities in the coming days.
The years-in-the-making feasibility study initially saw the four cities team up in 2012 to consider various ways and alternatives for connecting a series of trails alongside or near the miles-long creek."
'via Blog this'
Silicon valley gender lawsuit continues - Business - NZ Herald News
Silicon valley gender lawsuit continues - Business - NZ Herald News: "With more than a week to go before jurors consider a verdict in this case that's come to symbolise how women are treated in the tech hubs of Silicon Valley, the outcome will likely turn on the very simple concept of whether they believe Pao's claim she's a victim, or Kleiner's contention she's an opportunist.
Pao is asking the jury to find that she was subjected to a sexually charged atmosphere, preyed on by male colleagues and ultimately denied a promotion because she's a woman.
Kleiner denies discriminating or retaliating against Pao and claims her lawsuit was financially motivated. It says she was fired in 2012 because she was hard to get along with, had no experience as an entrepreneur and lacked expertise in strategic markets for investments."
'via Blog this'
Pao is asking the jury to find that she was subjected to a sexually charged atmosphere, preyed on by male colleagues and ultimately denied a promotion because she's a woman.
Kleiner denies discriminating or retaliating against Pao and claims her lawsuit was financially motivated. It says she was fired in 2012 because she was hard to get along with, had no experience as an entrepreneur and lacked expertise in strategic markets for investments."
'via Blog this'
California May Crack Down Further This Week on Water-Wasters | TIME
California May Crack Down Further This Week on Water-Wasters | TIME: "A new report finds enforcement of penalties is rare
California may only have about one year’s supply of water left in its reservoirs, but a new report suggests regulators aren’t enforcing penalties at stemming water waste strictly enough.
Gov. Jerry Brown called on residents in January 2014 to reduce their usage by 20% when he declared a drought state of emergency, but the Associated Press reports that consumers only hit the mark in December, with the monthly average since July standing at 11%."
'via Blog this'
California may only have about one year’s supply of water left in its reservoirs, but a new report suggests regulators aren’t enforcing penalties at stemming water waste strictly enough.
Gov. Jerry Brown called on residents in January 2014 to reduce their usage by 20% when he declared a drought state of emergency, but the Associated Press reports that consumers only hit the mark in December, with the monthly average since July standing at 11%."
'via Blog this'
Vanuatu cyclone: Pam 'wiped out' development - BBC News
Vanuatu cyclone: Pam 'wiped out' development - BBC News: "Cyclone Pam has "wiped out" development in Vanuatu, its president said, amid ongoing concern over residents of the Pacific nation's outlying islands.
Aid has begun arriving in the storm-hit nation, where trees and power lines have been felled and many buildings destroyed.
Aerial images of the capital, Port Vila, show houses completely flattened.
The situation on islands closer to the eye of the storm is not yet known.
At least eight people are confirmed to have died but the death toll is expected to rise as rescuers reach more remote islands."
'via Blog this'
Aid has begun arriving in the storm-hit nation, where trees and power lines have been felled and many buildings destroyed.
Aerial images of the capital, Port Vila, show houses completely flattened.
The situation on islands closer to the eye of the storm is not yet known.
At least eight people are confirmed to have died but the death toll is expected to rise as rescuers reach more remote islands."
'via Blog this'
Friday, March 13, 2015
‘By separating nature from economics, we have walked blindly into tragedy’ | Global Development Professionals Network | The Guardian
‘By separating nature from economics, we have walked blindly into tragedy’ | Global Development Professionals Network | The Guardian: "Welcome to ‘the age of sustainable development’. We are learning a hard truth: the world economy has crossed the “planetary boundaries” of environmental safety. We now face a momentous choice. Will we continue to follow our blind economic model at growing threat to humanity, or will we choose a new direction that finally combines economic progress with social justice and environmental safety?
São Paulo is just one of many such cascading disasters. My colleagues at the Earth Institute of Columbia University recently detailed how Syria’s disastrous war was triggered in part by a devastating drought that itself was a signal of long-term drying in the eastern Mediterranean. Others have used sophisticated climate models and a deep reading of past climate history to show that California’s extreme drought is a foreshadowing of mega-droughts ahead in the 21st century in the US southwest and mid-plains states, as a result of human-induced climate change."
'via Blog this'
São Paulo is just one of many such cascading disasters. My colleagues at the Earth Institute of Columbia University recently detailed how Syria’s disastrous war was triggered in part by a devastating drought that itself was a signal of long-term drying in the eastern Mediterranean. Others have used sophisticated climate models and a deep reading of past climate history to show that California’s extreme drought is a foreshadowing of mega-droughts ahead in the 21st century in the US southwest and mid-plains states, as a result of human-induced climate change."
'via Blog this'
Volunteering Overseas: the best method for creating new aid workers? | AID LEAP
Volunteering Overseas: the best method for creating new aid workers? | AID LEAP: "It wasn’t till several years later that I discovered Mary Anderson’s Do No Harm principles. Anderson’s principles focus on the impact of aid on conflict, but the idea that we should all be responsible for the consequences of our actions rings true for all those working in another country. However, this requires awareness, which young or inexperienced volunteers don’t always have. Very few of my fellow young volunteers would see any harm from what they did during their 3 months in Uganda or 2 weeks in Nepal. And most probably didn’t cause any harm. But did they help? Or was this purely a learning experience for them?"
'via Blog this'
'via Blog this'
Florida bans use of 'climate change' by state agency: report - Yahoo News
Florida bans use of 'climate change' by state agency: report - Yahoo News: "ORLANDO, Fla. (Reuters) - Climate change activists blasted Florida Governor Rick Scott on Monday for leading an "Orwellian" campaign to ban employees of the state's lead environmental agency from using such terms as “global warming” and “climate change.”
Despite coastal Florida's vulnerability to storm surges and rising sea levels, the state’s Department of Environmental Protection was directed in 2011 not to use the phrases in official communications, according to a report by the Florida Center for Investigative Reporting."
'via Blog this'
Despite coastal Florida's vulnerability to storm surges and rising sea levels, the state’s Department of Environmental Protection was directed in 2011 not to use the phrases in official communications, according to a report by the Florida Center for Investigative Reporting."
'via Blog this'
Nakao's 'innovative' approach to 'do more' for Asia-Pacific | Devex
Nakao's 'innovative' approach to 'do more' for Asia-Pacific | Devex: "“Unless we have a certain lending capacity, ADB's relevance will be limited. So from the beginning of my presidency, we started thinking [of] how we can increase our lending capacity,” Nakao told Devex in an exclusive interview. “Unless we increase our lending capacity, which is in line with the infrastructure planning and the increasing size of the Asian economy, we cannot remain relevant to Asia.”
If approved by the bank’s board of governors, ADB’s two main financial instruments will be merged by January 2017. With the addition of ADF’s more than $34 billion envelope, the merge will triple the bank’s current OCR equity from $18 billion to $53 billion. It will also increase the bank’s lending operations more than 38 percent, from $13 billion to $18 billion — which basically means more development funds can be loaned to developing member countries."
'via Blog this'
If approved by the bank’s board of governors, ADB’s two main financial instruments will be merged by January 2017. With the addition of ADF’s more than $34 billion envelope, the merge will triple the bank’s current OCR equity from $18 billion to $53 billion. It will also increase the bank’s lending operations more than 38 percent, from $13 billion to $18 billion — which basically means more development funds can be loaned to developing member countries."
'via Blog this'
Angola floods kill at least 35 children and 27 adults - BBC News
Angola floods kill at least 35 children and 27 adults - BBC News: "Floods caused by torrential rains have killed 62 people - 35 of them children - in the Angolan city of Lobito, local authorities say.
The Angop state news agency says the flood water has reached 3m (9.8ft) in some areas of the city since Wednesday.
Scores of homes have been destroyed and rescue teams are still searching for missing people.
President Jose Eduardo Santos has ordered local authorities to provide assistance to the victims.
Large parts of Angola have been hit by heavy rains since January.
In the capital Luanda, at least one person died this week and hundreds of people were left homeless after 137 houses were destroyed by the rains, state media report."
'via Blog this'
The Angop state news agency says the flood water has reached 3m (9.8ft) in some areas of the city since Wednesday.
Scores of homes have been destroyed and rescue teams are still searching for missing people.
President Jose Eduardo Santos has ordered local authorities to provide assistance to the victims.
Large parts of Angola have been hit by heavy rains since January.
In the capital Luanda, at least one person died this week and hundreds of people were left homeless after 137 houses were destroyed by the rains, state media report."
'via Blog this'
5 dead, several others captured in Bangladesh factory collapse | The Indian Express
5 dead, several others captured in Bangladesh factory collapse | The Indian Express: "At least five people were killed, 39 injured and scores of others were feared trapped under tonnes of debris after an under-construction cement factory collapsed on Thursday in southwestern Bangladesh.
“Three bodies were retrieved from the scene and two others succumbed to their wounds later. The 39 injured are being treated at three hospitals,” a fire official said in Bagerhat. He added that 39 people were rescued alive while searches were underway to retrieve the trapped people as “we have been told that at least 100 people were inside the structure when it collapsed”."
'via Blog this'
“Three bodies were retrieved from the scene and two others succumbed to their wounds later. The 39 injured are being treated at three hospitals,” a fire official said in Bagerhat. He added that 39 people were rescued alive while searches were underway to retrieve the trapped people as “we have been told that at least 100 people were inside the structure when it collapsed”."
'via Blog this'
Two Officers Shot During Protest Near Ferguson Police Department - NBC News.com
Two Officers Shot During Protest Near Ferguson Police Department - NBC News.com: "The report was triggered by the killing of unarmed black teenager Michael Brown by a white police officer in August, which set off weeks of sometimes violent protests in the St. Louis suburb.
It also concluded that police in Ferguson had used excessive and dangerous force and had disproportionately targeted blacks.
Attorney General Eric Holder said last week that the police had fostered a "highly toxic environment" of racism and misconduct that turned the city into a "powder keg.""
'via Blog this'
It also concluded that police in Ferguson had used excessive and dangerous force and had disproportionately targeted blacks.
Attorney General Eric Holder said last week that the police had fostered a "highly toxic environment" of racism and misconduct that turned the city into a "powder keg.""
'via Blog this'
Protests Continue in Ferguson After Police Officers Are Shot - NBC News.com
Protests Continue in Ferguson After Police Officers Are Shot - NBC News.com: ""Whoever was the culprit last night did not come from this community," Rev. Traci Blackmon said at the vigil, noting that no police officers were shot during months of protests, even when anger over the fatal police shooting of Michael Brown was at its height. "We will not be moved. We will not give up," she added.
A St. Louis County police officer was shot in the shoulder and a police officer from the St. Louis suburb of Webster Groves was shot in the face at around midnight local time (1 a.m. ET) outside Ferguson police headquarters, as protests began to wind down, police said.
Both officers were released from the hospital Thursday. St. Louis County Police Chief Jon Belmar said three or four shots were fired at a group of police from about 125 yards away. He called the shooting an "ambush" and said the officers are lucky to be alive."
'via Blog this'
A St. Louis County police officer was shot in the shoulder and a police officer from the St. Louis suburb of Webster Groves was shot in the face at around midnight local time (1 a.m. ET) outside Ferguson police headquarters, as protests began to wind down, police said.
Both officers were released from the hospital Thursday. St. Louis County Police Chief Jon Belmar said three or four shots were fired at a group of police from about 125 yards away. He called the shooting an "ambush" and said the officers are lucky to be alive."
'via Blog this'
Thursday, March 12, 2015
Can Aqua-Spark fund the future of aquaculture? | Guardian Sustainable Business | The Guardian
Can Aqua-Spark fund the future of aquaculture? | Guardian Sustainable Business | The Guardian: "“There aren’t a lot of perfect models out there,” says Amy Novogratz, who founded Aqua-Spark with her husband, Mike Velings. “If we make investment available to the ‘best in class’ companies, they will help set a bar for sustainability. And if we can help them succeed, others will follow.”
Novogratz and Velings met in 2010 aboard a National Geographic ship in the Galapagos Island, part of a five-day mini TED conference called Mission Blue. She had been director of the TED prize for nearly a decade (and is also the younger sister of Jacqueline Novogratz, founder of Acumen, an nonprofit impact investing fund). He was already a lifelong entrepreneur. They were surrounded by scientists who argued that protecting the oceans meant changing the way we catch and grow fish."
'via Blog this'
Novogratz and Velings met in 2010 aboard a National Geographic ship in the Galapagos Island, part of a five-day mini TED conference called Mission Blue. She had been director of the TED prize for nearly a decade (and is also the younger sister of Jacqueline Novogratz, founder of Acumen, an nonprofit impact investing fund). He was already a lifelong entrepreneur. They were surrounded by scientists who argued that protecting the oceans meant changing the way we catch and grow fish."
'via Blog this'
Can Aqua-Spark fund the future of aquaculture? | Guardian Sustainable Business | The Guardian
Can Aqua-Spark fund the future of aquaculture? | Guardian Sustainable Business | The Guardian: "Aqua-Spark, a global investment fund based in the Netherlands, aims to do better. The fund, which focuses exclusively on aquaculture, recently made its first two investments, putting $2m into a biotech company called Calysta, whose technology makes fish feed out of methane gas, and another $2m into Chicoa Fish Farm, a tilapia-farming startup in Mozambique that intends to build up aquaculture in sub-Saharan Africa."
'via Blog this'
'via Blog this'
Friday, March 6, 2015
Bill Easterly's take on the SDGs | Devex
Bill Easterly's take on the SDGs | Devex: "“I think [the SGDs] illustrate powerfully the limits of the development community's fetish with action plans,” the New York University professor told Devex in an email.
Easterly likewise criticized the process that is giving rise to the post-2015 development agenda, noting that creating an action plan by “consensus” leads to an “empty” final product.
He pointed derisively to a goal included in U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon’s synthesis report released late last year that would seek to ensure “people everywhere have the relevant information and awareness for sustainable development and lifestyles in harmony with nature.”
Easterly also derided the redundant use of the word “sustainable” in development circles — and in the post-2015 discussion — saying it appears “so often and in so many different contexts” that it has become almost meaningless.
"
'via Blog this'
Easterly likewise criticized the process that is giving rise to the post-2015 development agenda, noting that creating an action plan by “consensus” leads to an “empty” final product.
He pointed derisively to a goal included in U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon’s synthesis report released late last year that would seek to ensure “people everywhere have the relevant information and awareness for sustainable development and lifestyles in harmony with nature.”
Easterly also derided the redundant use of the word “sustainable” in development circles — and in the post-2015 discussion — saying it appears “so often and in so many different contexts” that it has become almost meaningless.
"
'via Blog this'
Review of Hillary Clinton emails to take months: U.S. official - Yahoo News
Review of Hillary Clinton emails to take months: U.S. official - Yahoo News: "A growing controversy over Democrat Hillary Clinton's use of personal email for work while she was U.S. secretary of state could drag on for months, threatening to cloud the expected launch of her 2016 presidential campaign.
Clinton tried to cool the brewing firestorm late on Wednesday, saying she wanted the State Department to release the emails quickly. But a senior State Department official told Reuters on Thursday the task would take time.
"The review is likely to take several months given the sheer volume of the document set," the official said.
That could dash any Clinton hopes of putting the controversy to rest quickly, and give her Republican foes plenty of time to hit her with allegations that the use of personal email for official duties while secretary of state from 2009 to 2013 was inappropriate."
'via Blog this'
Clinton tried to cool the brewing firestorm late on Wednesday, saying she wanted the State Department to release the emails quickly. But a senior State Department official told Reuters on Thursday the task would take time.
"The review is likely to take several months given the sheer volume of the document set," the official said.
That could dash any Clinton hopes of putting the controversy to rest quickly, and give her Republican foes plenty of time to hit her with allegations that the use of personal email for official duties while secretary of state from 2009 to 2013 was inappropriate."
'via Blog this'
CHRISTIAN MATERIAL OR FAKED TO CREATE ANGER? Penang Muslims upset over ‘Allah’ booklets on Jesus
CHRISTIAN MATERIAL OR FAKED TO CREATE ANGER? Penang Muslims upset over ‘Allah’ booklets on Jesus: "The “Allah” issue is a hot button topic in Penang after Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng said last December that there is no ban against non-Muslims from describing God with the Arabic word.
He backed his statement by pointing out that fatwas and the Administration of Religion of Islam (Penang) Enactment 2004 do not apply to non-Muslims.
Two years ago, there have been allegations of Bahasa Malaysia bibles being distributed to students in a school here, but these claims later turned out to be false. - Malay Mail"
'via Blog this'
He backed his statement by pointing out that fatwas and the Administration of Religion of Islam (Penang) Enactment 2004 do not apply to non-Muslims.
Two years ago, there have been allegations of Bahasa Malaysia bibles being distributed to students in a school here, but these claims later turned out to be false. - Malay Mail"
'via Blog this'
Facebook rant lands US man in UAE jail - BBC News
Facebook rant lands US man in UAE jail - BBC News: "Mr Pate's dispute with his employer began in December last year when he sought to extend his holiday to see a doctor about a long-standing back injury. After being told he could not extend his leave, Mr Pate posted a rant about the Abu Dhabi-based firm on his Facebook page.
In the post, Mr Pate called Gal "backstabbers" and warned other contractors about working for the firm. He also complained about life in the UAE and used a racial slur against the region's people.
He returned to Abu Dhabi in order to resign but soon after arriving he was called by police who told him to report to a nearby police station. On attending he was shown screenshots of the Facebook message and told his employer had filed charges accusing him of breaking wide-ranging Emirates laws that ban slander.
The laws were introduced in late 2012 and make it an offence to use the net to mock or deride organisations and individuals."
'via Blog this'
In the post, Mr Pate called Gal "backstabbers" and warned other contractors about working for the firm. He also complained about life in the UAE and used a racial slur against the region's people.
He returned to Abu Dhabi in order to resign but soon after arriving he was called by police who told him to report to a nearby police station. On attending he was shown screenshots of the Facebook message and told his employer had filed charges accusing him of breaking wide-ranging Emirates laws that ban slander.
The laws were introduced in late 2012 and make it an offence to use the net to mock or deride organisations and individuals."
'via Blog this'
Attack on US ambassador to South Korea spotlights pro-North radicalism ( video) - CSMonitor.com
Attack on US ambassador to South Korea spotlights pro-North radicalism ( video) - CSMonitor.com: "A knife-wielding South Korean man who attacked US Ambassador Mark Lippert today is a well-known nationalist who previously threw a chunk of concrete at the Japanese ambassador and once tried erect a memorial to former North Korean leader Kim Jong Il in Seoul.
At a breakfast seminar in the South Korean capital, Kim Ki-jong attacked Mr. Lippert with a wooden-handled fruit knife while calling for the unification of North and South Korea. The attack on the ambassador, a rarity in South Korea, a US military ally, took place against the backdrop of annual military exercises between the two nations. "
'via Blog this'
At a breakfast seminar in the South Korean capital, Kim Ki-jong attacked Mr. Lippert with a wooden-handled fruit knife while calling for the unification of North and South Korea. The attack on the ambassador, a rarity in South Korea, a US military ally, took place against the backdrop of annual military exercises between the two nations. "
'via Blog this'
Wednesday, March 4, 2015
Yields of key cassava crop not keeping pace with Africa population growth: TRFN | Top News | Reuters
Yields of key cassava crop not keeping pace with Africa population growth: TRFN | Top News | Reuters: "Yields of cassava, a key crop feeding millions of people across Africa, are not keeping pace with population growth despite its tolerance for climate change, a leading scientist said.
More than half the world's cassava, a high-energy root crop, is grown in sub-Saharan Africa, where it is often the cheapest source of calories for poor people, said Clair Hershey, programme leader at the Colombia-based International Center for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT).
"More than 200 million people rely on cassava as a basic food crop," he said during a lecture at the U.N.'s Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) late on Monday."
'via Blog this'
More than half the world's cassava, a high-energy root crop, is grown in sub-Saharan Africa, where it is often the cheapest source of calories for poor people, said Clair Hershey, programme leader at the Colombia-based International Center for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT).
"More than 200 million people rely on cassava as a basic food crop," he said during a lecture at the U.N.'s Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) late on Monday."
'via Blog this'
Monday, March 2, 2015
Why Community College Is Better | POPSUGAR Smart Living
Why Community College Is Better | POPSUGAR Smart Living: "I went to community college, and I absolutely don't regret it. When I was in high school, I felt ashamed to tell my peers where I was headed. Being friends with a group of supersmart AP students, I was made to feel as though I was selling myself short by many classmates. It's as if people believe that starting your education at a junior college is giving up.
The truth is, my parents and I made the decision together that I would begin my education at Diablo Valley College. I was an A student, I was involved in tons of extracurriculars, and I knew exactly what I wanted to major in, so the worry of not getting in anywhere was not the issue. In fact, there wasn't any issues. I chose to go to school where I did because I would be saving thousands of dollars before transferring to the college of my choice — and that's exactly what I did."
'via Blog this'
The truth is, my parents and I made the decision together that I would begin my education at Diablo Valley College. I was an A student, I was involved in tons of extracurriculars, and I knew exactly what I wanted to major in, so the worry of not getting in anywhere was not the issue. In fact, there wasn't any issues. I chose to go to school where I did because I would be saving thousands of dollars before transferring to the college of my choice — and that's exactly what I did."
'via Blog this'
This is the best explanation of gerrymandering you will ever see - The Washington Post
This is the best explanation of gerrymandering you will ever see - The Washington Post: "Gerrymandering -- drawing political boundaries to give your party a numeric advantage over an opposing party -- is a difficult process to explain. If you find the notion confusing, check out the chart above -- adapted from one posted to Reddit this weekend -- and wonder no more."
'via Blog this'
'via Blog this'
California Republicans Vote To Officially Recognize Gay Political Organization
California Republicans Vote To Officially Recognize Gay Political Organization: "LOS ANGELES, March 1 (Reuters) - California Republicans broke from their own platform on Sunday and voted overwhelmingly at their state party convention to give official recognition to a gay rights wing of the GOP that has long been marginalized.
Endorsement of the Log Cabin Republicans as a charter volunteer organization within the nation's largest Republican statewide party apparatus marked a turning point of sorts for California Republicans on a key chunk of their social policy agenda.
Delegates to the California Republican Party voted 861-293 in favor of the move during the party's three-day annual convention in Sacramento, the state capital, a party spokeswoman said.
"
'via Blog this'
Endorsement of the Log Cabin Republicans as a charter volunteer organization within the nation's largest Republican statewide party apparatus marked a turning point of sorts for California Republicans on a key chunk of their social policy agenda.
Delegates to the California Republican Party voted 861-293 in favor of the move during the party's three-day annual convention in Sacramento, the state capital, a party spokeswoman said.
"
'via Blog this'
Sunday, March 1, 2015
Arizona case before Supreme Court could undo California’s independent redistricting | The Sacramento Bee The Sacramento Bee
Arizona case before Supreme Court could undo California’s independent redistricting | The Sacramento Bee The Sacramento Bee: "In 1776, John Adams wrote that “equal interests among the people, should have equal interests in the representative body.”
As fundamental a value as this is, it has proved quite difficult to preserve throughout our history.
Ever since the first federal election in 1788, when Patrick Henry persuaded the Virginia legislature to draw a house district unfavorable to a political enemy, James Madison, the nation has struggled with the evils of gerrymandering.
In 2010, California voters finally passed an initiative that created an independent redistricting commission to perform the decennial duty of making new congressional maps. It was given new criteria to use in drawing the lines that helped ensure that equality of interest."
'via Blog this'
As fundamental a value as this is, it has proved quite difficult to preserve throughout our history.
Ever since the first federal election in 1788, when Patrick Henry persuaded the Virginia legislature to draw a house district unfavorable to a political enemy, James Madison, the nation has struggled with the evils of gerrymandering.
In 2010, California voters finally passed an initiative that created an independent redistricting commission to perform the decennial duty of making new congressional maps. It was given new criteria to use in drawing the lines that helped ensure that equality of interest."
'via Blog this'
Anne Wojcicki’s quest to put people in charge of their own health - San Francisco Chronicle
Anne Wojcicki’s quest to put people in charge of their own health - San Francisco Chronicle: "But there have been media reports about different genetic tests providing different interpretations of health risks, raising the question of just how many errors there are.
It’s also unclear to what extent genetics cause some of the conditions covered in a 23andMe test. Mutations of a single gene virtually guarantee contracting or passing on some diseases, including Bloom syndrome, cystic fibrosis and Huntington’s disease. But others, like Type 2 diabetes, most heart diseases and asthma, are influenced by lifestyle as well as genetics.
Customers discover their risks by logging onto 23andMe’s website, without a medical professional at the ready to offer comfort or context. The company encourages users to seek additional counsel, but doctors and genetic professionals are intentionally left out of the process. Wojcicki is sometimes accused of overestimating the ability of patients to make good decisions.
“For a lot of people, genetic information is just very difficult to grasp, and life already has enough major issues to care and really worry about,” said Dr. Cecile Janssens, an epidemiologist at Emory University. “Think of relationships, jobs, kids, school, finances, all sorts of things. Complex health information comes on top of that. And even if they want it, I am not sure they really do understand it. They often think they do, but they don’t.”
Many people don’t even follow basic health advice, like exercising or eating well, but Wojcicki believes that’s because the health care system often fails to clearly explain information. “There’s a lot of aspects of health care where people don’t understand why they’re doing it, and they don’t understand the science behind everything,” she said."
'via Blog this'
It’s also unclear to what extent genetics cause some of the conditions covered in a 23andMe test. Mutations of a single gene virtually guarantee contracting or passing on some diseases, including Bloom syndrome, cystic fibrosis and Huntington’s disease. But others, like Type 2 diabetes, most heart diseases and asthma, are influenced by lifestyle as well as genetics.
Customers discover their risks by logging onto 23andMe’s website, without a medical professional at the ready to offer comfort or context. The company encourages users to seek additional counsel, but doctors and genetic professionals are intentionally left out of the process. Wojcicki is sometimes accused of overestimating the ability of patients to make good decisions.
“For a lot of people, genetic information is just very difficult to grasp, and life already has enough major issues to care and really worry about,” said Dr. Cecile Janssens, an epidemiologist at Emory University. “Think of relationships, jobs, kids, school, finances, all sorts of things. Complex health information comes on top of that. And even if they want it, I am not sure they really do understand it. They often think they do, but they don’t.”
Many people don’t even follow basic health advice, like exercising or eating well, but Wojcicki believes that’s because the health care system often fails to clearly explain information. “There’s a lot of aspects of health care where people don’t understand why they’re doing it, and they don’t understand the science behind everything,” she said."
'via Blog this'
Elon Musk's high-speed Hyperloop to be built in California next year - Telegraph
Elon Musk's high-speed Hyperloop to be built in California next year - Telegraph: "When Elon Musk, the PayPal billionaire, announced his plans for a near-supersonic transport system of passenger capsules levitating inside tubes it sounded like science fiction.
Now the concept is to get its first working test track.
A full-scale version of the Hyperloop concept is to be built in central California next year, using magnets and fans to push passenger pods through five miles of depressurised tubes at speeds of up to 200 mph.
This model will be slower and shorter than the full-sized system described by Mr Musk but will be used to test the concept and its safety.
Dirk Ahlborn, chief executive of Hyperloop Transportation Technologies, said: "This installation will allow us to demonstrate all systems on a full scale and immediately begin generating revenues for our shareholders through actual operations.""
'via Blog this'
Now the concept is to get its first working test track.
A full-scale version of the Hyperloop concept is to be built in central California next year, using magnets and fans to push passenger pods through five miles of depressurised tubes at speeds of up to 200 mph.
This model will be slower and shorter than the full-sized system described by Mr Musk but will be used to test the concept and its safety.
Dirk Ahlborn, chief executive of Hyperloop Transportation Technologies, said: "This installation will allow us to demonstrate all systems on a full scale and immediately begin generating revenues for our shareholders through actual operations.""
'via Blog this'
Egypt declares Hamas a 'terrorist organization' (+video) - CSMonitor.com
Egypt declares Hamas a 'terrorist organization' (+video) - CSMonitor.com: "CAIRO — An Egyptian court declared Hamas a "terrorist organization" on Saturday, further isolating the rulers of the Gaza Strip who once found a warm welcome under the country's past Islamist government.
The ruling by Judge Mohamed el-Sayed of the Court For Urgent Matters described Hamas as targeting both civilians and security forces inside Egypt's restive Sinai Peninsula and aiming to harm the country. The Sinai has been under increasing attack by Islamic extremists since the Egyptian military ousted Islamist President Mohammed Morsi in 2013.
"It has been proven without any doubt that the movement has committed acts of sabotage, assassinations and the killing of innocent civilians and members of the armed forces and police in Egypt," the judge's ruling said, according to state news agency MENA."
'via Blog this'
The ruling by Judge Mohamed el-Sayed of the Court For Urgent Matters described Hamas as targeting both civilians and security forces inside Egypt's restive Sinai Peninsula and aiming to harm the country. The Sinai has been under increasing attack by Islamic extremists since the Egyptian military ousted Islamist President Mohammed Morsi in 2013.
"It has been proven without any doubt that the movement has committed acts of sabotage, assassinations and the killing of innocent civilians and members of the armed forces and police in Egypt," the judge's ruling said, according to state news agency MENA."
'via Blog this'
Russian opposition mourns murdered leader Nemtsov | Reuters
Russian opposition mourns murdered leader Nemtsov | Reuters: "(Reuters) - Thousands of stunned Russians laid flowers and lit candles on Saturday on the bridge where opposition politician Boris Nemtsov was shot dead near the Kremlin, a murder that showed the risks of speaking out against President Vladimir Putin.
Nemtsov, 55, was shot four times in the back by killers in a white car late on Friday as he walked across the bridge over the Moskva River in central Moscow with a Ukrainian woman, who was unhurt, police said."
'via Blog this'
Nemtsov, 55, was shot four times in the back by killers in a white car late on Friday as he walked across the bridge over the Moskva River in central Moscow with a Ukrainian woman, who was unhurt, police said."
'via Blog this'
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