Can I Sue After an Aggressive Driving or Road Rage Incident in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania is a diverse state. In the areas where major cities like Philadelphia, Harrisburg, and Pittsburgh are located the roads are often filled with a high volume of vehicles all jockeying for position and trying to reach their destination. However, if you were to head out to the more rural parts of the state, you are likely to find yourself with significantly more space to maneuver your vehicle. At night and early in the morning you may even be the only vehicle on the road. The contrast in driving culture is significant and this can lead to misunderstandings among drivers and possibly cause car crashes.
However, regardless of where you perform you driving in the state, one thing never changes: All drivers must find strategies to cope with reckless and aggressive drivers. In rare occasions, circumstances may even place motorist in a position where he or she must deal with a dangerous and unpredictable road rage situation. While the terms aggressive driving and road rage are widely used in the media, they are often used interchangeably and imprecisely. However, there is a distinct difference between aggressive driving incidents and road rage incidents. Depending on the factors and circumstances present in your incident, you may have a viable personal injury or other action that can allow you to obtain compensation for the injuries, lost wages, and other damages inflicted.
What is Aggressive Driving?
“Aggressive driving” can refer to multiple types of dangerous and distracted driving issues, some of which are ticketable offenses. Acts that can be considered aggressive driving include tailgating, speeding, erratic lane changes, failure to signal, racing other vehicles, speeding to beat a traffic light, and an array of other behaviors. While some people drive aggressively as a matter of course, others tend to do so when faced with heavy volume, congestion, or traffic and a tight deadline.
While Pennsylvania does not have an aggressive driving statute, the state legislature has passed a resolution that encourages drivers to engage in defensive and courteous driving behaviors. Furthermore, the legislature has stated that it intends to support all measures that would improve driving safety in the state. One of these efforts is the Pennsylvania Aggressive Driving Enforcement and Education Project (PAADEEP).
Pennsylvania Engages In Measures to Reduce & Eliminate Aggressive Driving Behaviors
Under the PAADEEP program, the state of Pennsylvania is divided into six Law Enforcement Liaison (LEL) districts. As its name suggests, PADEEP is intended to educate drivers about aggressive driving, how to avoid driving in this manner, and how to handle other aggressive drivers. However, education is not the only goal of this program. The project also compiles and analyzes state crash data to identify certain locations with a high prevalence of aggressive driving. These identified areas are then targeted for enforcement which typically includes high-visibility enforcement making use of police vehicles and conspicuous aggressive driving checkpoints.
The most recent PAADEEP aggressive driving enforcement wave occurred this past summer from July 6 to August 30th. More than 330 municipal police forces participated in enforcement actions on approximately 474 roadways. While statistics are not yet available for this most recent enforcement drive, there is information available for the 2014 enforcement wave. Last year’s aggressive driving campaign produced more than 50,000 citations for aggressive driving offenses. Of those tickets, more than 31,000 of them were for speeding.
What is Road Rage and How is it Different from Aggressive Driving?
In contrast to aggressive driving which is a moving violation, road rage incidents occur when aggressive driving escalates into a significantly more serious altercation. The archetypical situation for a road rage incident is when a driver perceives another as driving carelessly, aggressively, or simply being in the way. This driver may become incensed and resort to a violent act to make his or her displeasure known. In some cases, the driver may use his or her vehicle as a weapon by driving at the other vehicle or the driver who has exited his or her car or truck. In other cases, the driver may stop his or her car, get out of his or her vehicle, and confront the other driver. In some cases, the driver may even produce, brandish, or use a weapon. In short, a road rage incident is more serious than an aggressive driving incident and is a criminal offense typically being prosecuted as an assault and battery. If an individual is killed due to road rage, the incident may result in vehicular homicide charges.
Can I Sue if I Have Been Injured by an Aggressive or Enraged Driver?
As a starting point, you cannot typically sue someone simply for driving in a manner you do not like. In general, for an individual to bring suit several factors must be present.
First, there must be a valid legal cause of action that can sustain the lawsuit. One of the most common grounds for a personal injury lawsuit motivated by a car accident is negligence. Under a negligence approach, the injured party must prove the existence of four main elements:
Injury – In a negligence action, the presence of an injury and other damages is necessary. If there is no injury or damages, the action cannot be sustained. Furthermore, as a practical matter for all personal injury actions, there must generally be severe, life-altering injuries or the death of the victim must occur. In the case of the death of a driver, a wrongful death and survival action may also be brought. Duty – Under a negligence action the injured party must show that he or she was owed a duty by the other driver. This duty is fact-sensitive, but in the context of operating a motor vehicle, motorists owe other motorists the duty that they will drive with due care in a lawful, diligent, and reasonable manner for the circumstances present. Breach – For an individual to be held financially liable for a driver’s injuries, he or she must have breached the duty owed to his or her fellow motorists. Whether a breach has occurred is dependent upon the objective standard of a “reasonably prudent person” in relation to the attendant circumstances. For instance, a driver traveling at 55 mph on a highway in clear weather conditions that strikes another vehicle may or may not have been negligent depending on the other factors present. However, if the car was traveling at 55 mph during a major snowstorm, such behavior would almost undoubtedly constitute a breach of the duty of care owed. Causation – Finally, the injured drive must be able to prove that the other party was the actual and legal cause of the accident and resulting severe injuries or wrongful death. The reason for the requirement to prove causation comes down to fundamental fairness. For example, a driver that is texting while driving northbound on a roadway is almost undoubtedly engaging in negligent behavior and depending on the jurisdiction may be negligent per se. If an accident occurs on the southbound side of the road due to a tailgating driver who has insufficient stopping distance for an upcoming traffic light, it would be fundamentally unfair to hold the texting driver liable for an accident he or she played no part in causing despite his or her negligence.
In other cases, such as in a road rage incident where an intended physical altercation occurs, the injury victim may bring a lawsuit for an intentional tort. Intentional torts include assault, battery, and the intentional infliction of emotional distress (IIED).
Have You Suffered a Serious Injury Due to a Road Rage or Aggressive Driving Incident?
Injuries due to aggressive driving practices like speeding, unsignaled lane changes, running stop signs and stop lights can be severe or life-threatening. Likewise, injuries that may arise due to a road rage incident are often grave due to the inflamed passions and impulsive nature of such incidents.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a serious accident or event that produced catastrophic, life-altering injuries an experienced Delaware County car accident lawyer of The Reiff Law Firm may be able to fight for you. We are dedicated to seeking a favorable resolution for all of our clients. To that end we will handle all negotiations with the insurance company and, if required, litigate the matter to fight for the compensation a severely injured or wrongfully killed individual needs and deserves. To schedule a no-cost, private personal injury consultation call (215) 709-6940 today.


EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE WORKSHOP “Emotional intelligence is not the opposite of intelligence, it is not the triumph of heart over head – it is the unique intersection of both” “It’s amazing how once the mind is free of emotional pollution, logic and clarity emerge.”
In this 2-day immersive and insightful workshop, we unpack the components that are emotional intelligence. The workshop is designed to allow delegates to understand and manage their own emotions and the emotions of others. Combined with theoretical principles and experiential exercises that create insight, a deep dive into self and a depth of understanding self, delegates walk away armed with practical solutions and actions based on this understanding.
EQ is playing a major role in business and leadership today: a skill that highlights the importance of interpersonal and intrapersonal relationships in personal and professional life. What will you learn? Understand my EQ profile and how this shows itself in the workplace; The 4 quadrants of being emotionally intelligent; Investigate and understand individual EQ skills and how this impacts my role; How do you recognise and understand your emotions; Manage Your Emotions and explore your triggers; Control or redirect disruptive impulses and moods; Utilising the EQ dictionary; Interpret your PDA assessment into your EQ action plan. What will you need? Your PDA profile – what is PDA?; An open mind; The courage to be vulnerable; A dose of self-honesty.


The Knox Community College [KCC] which began in 1975 is a co-educational institution located in Spalding, Jamaica. It operates four campuses: Spalding, Cobbla, May Pen and Mandeville. Though the College began with only three academic programmes, today there are over fifty [50] programmes in a variety of disciplines which culminate in the award of certificates, diplomas, associate’s and bachelor’s degrees. KCC is a leading educational institution which operates under the auspices of the United Church in Jamaica and the Cayman Islands and the Ministry of Education, Youth and Information. It serves the educational needs of all students in central Jamaica.
The College has several layers of governance which include the Trustee Board; the Board of Management; the Principal; two Vice Principals and a Bursar. KCC has some 1300 students are enrolled .
The College in responding to emerging needs and national strategic priorities seeks to maintain relevance within the regional and local landscape thereby positioning itself to be a premier institution. This strategic compass then brings into sharp focus the activities it must undertake to accord with Vision 2030. This strategic compass period revolves around five strategic goals, namely:
In January 2019, the Principal launched the strategic planning process with a special meeting with faculty and staff. The discussion which was aimed at providing a critical interrogation of the institution was led by a facilitator who had international, regional and local experience. In preparing for the assignment, the facilitator examined trends in tertiary/post-secondary education and a SWOT analysis which had been undertaken three months prior. Subsequent to that, a one-day session in March 2019, yielded the outputs of focus group discussions on issues related to accountability, performance, the involvement of the private sector, funding, curriculum, instruction, inclusion, MIS, faculty, staff, students, and infrastructure.
In August 2019, a two- day management retreat saw stakeholders of the College agreeing on what philosophies should drive the operations of the institution. They also identified and deliberated on the initiatives KCC should undertake over the next five years that would result in transformation.


Retirement Planning
Withdrawal Scheduling for Qualified Plans Taxation Cash Flow Investment and Social Security Integration
The key to a comfortable retirement is not just how much you save but how well you manage your assets. With a comprehensive retirement plan, you can avoid high fees, unnecessary taxation, insufficient savings rates and unreal expectations that commonly threaten investments and savings.


What is a face? And what might it mean to be without one? This talk considers these, and related, questions through a reading of Ralph Ellison’s seminal novel Invisible Man. Specifically, I consider the deployment of the concept-metaphor of “facelessness” in Ellison’s text as a means of theorizing the matter of Black affect. I argue that Ellison’s rendering of Blackness as facelessness makes a key intervention into theories of affect which center on the face as the primary site of the affective encounter. Breaking with dominant conceptions of the face as a universal, anatomical reality or an ethico-affective horizon, Ellison demonstrates that the face is the product of obliterative violence––a social, political, and historical construction contingent on Black abjection.


If you don’t know where you want to be, it’s impossible to create a roadmap to get there. Without a vision rooted in your mission, the mission risks stagnation. We believe every organization needs a strategic plan. Stakeholders must know why your organization exists, clearly understand the primary beneficiaries, agree on the opportunities and challenges, and articulate how your organization contributes to the greater community.
Constructing a plan is a dynamic, interactive process that promotes buy-in. The “roadmap” will result from the involvement of stakeholders in a process that involves interviews, focus groups, surveys and assessments guided by our consultants.
What emerges is a plan that steers all of your activities so participants not only have buy-in but are held accountable for outcomes outlined in the plan. A feasibility study can provide additional helpful insights for your nonprofit. We specialize in a variety of nonprofit sectors, including the arts, culture, community, human services, educational, religious and Catholic fundraising.


A common way to model decision maker (DM) preferences in multiple criteria decision making problems is through the use of utility functions. The elicitation of the parameters of these functions is a major task that directly affects the validity and practical value of the decision making process. This paper proposes a novel Bayesian method that estimates the weights of criteria in linear additive utility functions by asking the DM to rank or select the best alternative in groups of decision alternatives. Our method computes the entire probability distribution of weights and utility predictions based on the DM's answers. Therefore, it enables the DM to estimate the expected value of weights and predictions, and the uncertainty regarding these values. Additionally, the proposed method can estimate the weights by asking the DM to evaluate few groups of decision alternatives since it can incorporate various types of inputs from the DM in the form of rankings, constraints and prior distributions. Our method successfully estimates criteria weights in two case studies about financial investment and university ranking decisions. Increasing the variety of inputs, such as using both ranking of decision alternatives and constraints on the importance of criteria, enables our method to compute more accurate estimations with fewer inputs from the DM.


Digital identity apps will witness a significant growth
Juniper Research has found that the number of digital identity apps in use will exceed 6.2 billion in 2025, from over 1 billion in 2020.
Besides, civic identity apps will account for almost 90% of digital identity apps installed globally in 2025.
They will overtake the number of digital identity cards in use in 2023, with the number of apps in use 41% higher than cards by 2025.
This rise will be driven by the increasing use of civic identity in emerging markets and the lasting impact of the pandemic.
The report identified that the shift to digital services during the pandemic globally will stimulate fast growth in civic identity; growing by 467% between 2020 and 2025, as robust onboarding and verification for digital services become vital.
We’ve reported that Accertify has announced the launch of Digital Identity solution to help organizations deal with the growth in fraudulent online account openings and account takeovers.
SEE ALSO:


We present five experiments that examined Wegner’s (1994) theory of ironic processes of mental control in reactive motor performance under pressure for the first time. In Experiments 1, 2 and 4, we conducted specific examinations of the incidence of ironic error using a reactive motor task. In Experiments 3 and 5 we provided the first tests of whether task instruction moderates the incidence of ironic errors. The task required participants to react to a series of three primary color balls as they rolled down a chute under low- and high-anxiety conditions. Measures of anxiety, heart rate, heart rate variability and muscle activity confirmed the effectiveness of the anxiety manipulation. Experiments 1, 2 and 4 revealed that anxiety increased the number of ironic errors. In Experiments 3 and 5, we provided the first evidence that instructional interventions can reduce the incidence of anxiety-induced ironic performance errors in reactive motor tasks.


One measure of success is centering the voices of the individuals and groups we work with. A recent review of media coverage of the 61 individual trainees in our 2019 spokesperson training cohort identified a 56-percent increase in coverage of them following their attendance at our two-day in-person training, continuing a previous positive pace. That additive value from us results in our partners' views on key issues reaching and persuading more people.


The Therapy Services team continues to do assessments and provide advice for people with disabilities to support them in reducing the challenges and barriers they face in everyday life.
Occupational Therapy is an integral part of our holistic approach, which aims to support the specific needs and goals of the person concerned. Occupational Therapy services are provided to children aged 0-6 years through the Early Childhood Early Intervention (ECEI) pathway; to children and adolescents aged 7–18 years, and to adults who have an NDIS plan.
Children and adults with a disability are supported to engage actively and participate in their own lives to meet their goals. Occupational Therapy supports social and emotional development and wellbeing, and assists to address trauma through sensory processing and regulation Functional Capacity assessments to assist the person in accessing the NDIS supports they require to help them to meet their goals Psychosocial support – assistance with managing mental health issues, emotional regulation and self-care Equipment and aids – Our therapists assess and prescribe the most appropriate equipment and assistive technology (e.g. specialised wheelchairs), and home modifications to enable independence through access, mobility and participation in activities of daily living such as showering, dressing, meal preparation, and social activities Home visits are provided for people in the community and a sensory gym is available where therapy for children can be delivered in a safe and fun environment
Support Coordination Support Coordinators assist people to understand their NDIS plan, connect and co-ordinate their supports, and develop capacity and resilience to manage their plan into the future. A Support Coordinator can assist with the implementation of supports in the plan, coordinate assessments, reports and service proposals, support the participant through identifying and selecting providers, monitoring plan and outcomes and plan expenditure.


Abstract
In this study, we conducted a questionnaire survey to understand requirements related to encouraging participation in mutual interchanges for the elderly, known as "salon activities". Our subjects are middle-Aged and elderly residents of apartment complexes. Findings were obtained using a causal model via SEM. In determining salon activities, such as in meetings, it's effective to appeal to the necessity of "preparation for disasters and old age." During the activities, it's effective to examine policies that foster participation in "salon activities that give purpose and a sense of culture" related to daily life. It's important to suggest participation before aging progresses.
Keywords Apartment Complexes Causal model Elderly People Mutual Support Neighboring communication Structural Equation Modeling ASJC Scopus subject areas Environmental Engineering


A Town Hall event addressing the impact of underage drinking was held in December at the Ohio Valley Mall. Guest speakers included The Honorable Mark Costine--Belmont County Juvenile Judge, Belmont County Sheriff Dave Lucas, and Julie Bray of Pennsylvania. Each speaker addressed their connection to the underage drinking issue, as well as other destructive behaviors that young people engage in.
Judge Costine and Sheriff Lucas both addressed underage drinking from the legal side, citing the number of cases they deal with as well as the specific damage they witnessed. Sheriff Lucas noted a case he worked on previously where numerous teens were severely injured and one deceased from a lethal batch of moonshine. The provider of the alcohol in that case, a 19 year old, was charged with involuntary manslaughter.
Julie Bray brought an a different perspective to the event, detailing the negative impact underage drinking had on her life as a teenager. Specifically, Julie discussed a 1990 car accident in which four of her best friends were killed as a result of her and another friend drinking and driving. Julie emphasized the horrendous impact that the car accident had on her life and the extent to which it really "wasn't worth it" for a night of partying. She addressed the youths in the crowd saying, "I've been in your shoes...when I was your age, I didn't want to listen to adults either, but if I had I wouldn't be a murderer."
Students from a local school were also there to provide statistics related to drinking and driving for the crowd. Among those cited at the event were the following:
Everyday 28 people in the United States die in alcohol-related motor vehicle accidents.
The annual cost of alcohol-related crashes totals more than $44 billion.
The average drunk driver drives intoxicated 80 times before being stopped for their first OVI offense.
In addition to the speakers, ODOT's Belmont County garage brought over a distracted driving simulator for attendees to experience the negative effects of distractions such as being intoxicated or texting on driving.


Circuit court upholds OSHA citations in PSM case Posted October 29, 2020
In a recent ruling, the 10th circuit upheld OSHA citations in a process safety management (PSM) case, stating that boilers can be a part of a covered process, even though they do not contain hazardous chemicals. The court determined that boilers can be interconnected to a covered process – so if the boiler explodes, a PSM violation can occur. In this instance, the boiler was connected to two other parts of a refinery that did contain highly hazardous chemicals.
Background
After a boiler exploded at a refinery, OSHA cited its owner for violating §1910.119, which creates a standard for process safety management (PSM) of highly hazardous chemicals. The Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission (OSHRC) upheld the violations. The refinery argued that §1910.119 does not apply to the boiler that exploded as it does not contain highly hazardous chemicals.
In its ruling, the court noted that the regulation defines “process” as “any activity involving a highly hazardous chemical,” and that the phrase “any activity involving” is broad enough to mean vessels need only be part of any activity that involves a highly hazardous chemical. In this case, the boiler was interconnected by a pipeline to two parts of the refinery that did contain highly hazardous chemicals.
The 10th circuit covers Oklahoma, Kansas, New Mexico, Colorado, Wyoming, and Utah, as well as those portions of the Yellowstone National Park extending into Montana and Idaho.
This article was written by Rachel Krubsack of J. J. Keller & Associates, Inc.


Basic conditions
To assess how much you can borrow, lenders are now required to scrutinise borrowers' incomes, outgoings and credit history closely and apply strict affordability criteria, ensuring that borrowers can comfortably afford their repayments now, and in the foreseeable future. All mortgage lenders are bound by the same general principles and criteria to assess borrower affordability, but there are slight variations in the way they apply them. We can help you present your application in a positive light, to the right lender, saving you time and stress. Here are some of the factors lenders take into account when making their decision:


Eat in a Healthy Calorie Deficit
Ultimately, losing weight is all about calories in, calories out. In order to lose weight, you have to burn more calories than you take in. "You have to create a deficit of 3,500 calories to lose one pound," explained registered dietitian and ACSM-certified personal trainer Jim White, owner of Jim White Fitness and Nutrition Studios. "This can be done by burning extra calories through exercise or reducing your intake of calories, but the best way is to use a combination of both methods. This ensures that you're giving your body enough nutrients during periods of weight loss."
However, eating in a 3,500-calorie deficit doesn't guarantee an exact weight loss of one pound. There are a lot of other factors that impact how your body loses weight, including stress, sleep, and hormones.
Although you should eat in a calorie deficit, he doesn't recommend anyone eat fewer than 1,200 calories a day. And since calorie needs are highly individual from person to person, Jim recommends meeting with a registered dietitian if you can to assess your needs and your goals. If that's not a possibility, you can use this formula to calculate your estimated calorie deficit for weight loss.


On February 7, 2014, Public Record Media received a letter from the Justice Department’s Office of Information Policy (OIP) regarding one of its pending administrative appeals. In its letter, OIP stated that a 2013 decision by the Office of Legal Counsel to withhold legal memos about the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) of 2012 was correct.
Our NDAA request touched upon two separate policy areas that PRM has followed closely – the scope of presidential powers under the NDAA, as well as the ability of federal agencies to withhold final legal opinions from public disclosure.
PRM pursuit of NDAA records
For over two years, PRM has sought information about detention powers granted under the 2012 NDAA. The NDAA is an annual, omnibus military spending bill that often contains other defense-related provisions, and its 2012 iteration included provisions relating to the indefinite military detention of individuals. Provisions 1021 and 1022 of the Act made explicit the President’s authority under the post-9/11 Authorization for the Use of Military Force (AUMF) to detain any person who was part of, “or substantially supported, al-Qaeda, the Taliba, or associated forces” under the law of war, “without trial, until the end of hostilities authorized by the AUMF.”
Military detention controversy
The detention-related provisions of the 2012 NDAA became the subject of public controversy after their passage, due to concerns that the provisions could be used to detain American citizens in a broad range of circumstance, including inside the United States itself. The indefinite duration of the detentions authorized by the NDAA also raised concerns about due process and related constitutional issues.
The military detention of civilians had been effectively prohibited since the passage of the Posse Commitatus Act in the aftermath of the Civil War. However, the Bush administration confined a small number of U.S. persons in domestic military brigs in the years after the 9/11 attack, raising renewed controversies about the use of indefinite, military detention.
The Bush-era military detentions split circuit and appellate courts. The administration eventually charged one of its U.S. detainees – Jose Padilla – with a series of criminal charges, ending his period of military detention without charge. The Obama administration took the same route with the last domestic military detainee – Ali Saleh Al-Marri. Since the Supreme Court did not end up acting on the al-Marri or Padilla cases, a patchwork of lower court case law remains, some of which could be used to justify future, indefinite military detention.
This legal ambiguity is what has fueled concerns over the content of the NDAA, even in the face of language in the law itself that appears to limit its reach. Section 1201(e) of the NDAA notes that,
“Nothing in this section shall be construed to affect existing law or authorities relating to the detention of United States citizen, lawful resident aliens of the United States, or any other persons who are captured or arrested in the United States.”
However, the case law landscape left over from the post-9/11 years (which could certainly be viewed as “existing authority”) may yet authorize detentions of U.S. citizens in the United States. Likewise, the Obama administration has articulated guidance on the NDAA that seeks to limit its domestic reach, but such guidance is at the discretion of the White House, and could be changed to give the NDAA broader effect.
PRM’s January 2012 FOIA request
In January of 2012, PRM submitted a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request to the Office of Legal Counsel (OLC) seeking documents pertinent to the President’s military detention powers under a variety of legal authorities, including the 2012 NDAA. For background, the OLC is frequently relied upon by executive branch agencies to evaluate legal issues and provide definitive guidance on a variety of matters.
The OLC responded in February of 2012, and noted that it held fourteen responsive documents. OLC also set out its decision to withhold each document in its entirety, asserting that the records were protected from disclosure by the deliberative process privilege under FOIA’s Exemption Five. This exemption can be used to withhold attorney-client communications and other “deliberative” discussions from disclosure under the FOIA. OLC also noted that it was invoking Exemption Five to protect presidential communications.
Knowing that OLC held responsive documents, PRM reformulated its request and attempted to obtain the records a second time.
Final opinions under FOIA
PRM believes that legal opinions – particularly final opinions – are valuable government records, because they provide the legal basis for government actions. By understanding the scope of a legal opinion, members of the public can anticipate government actions within a defined set of circumstances. Such an understanding is one of the underpinnings of a free society, and a key to government accountability.
The importance of public access to final legal opinions is reflected in the text of the Freedom of Information Act itself, which states that,
“Each agency shall make available for public inspection and copying … final opinions, including concurring and dissenting opinions.”
Recognizing this, FOIA case law makes it clear that the deliberative process privilege and other FOIA exemptions cannot be used to withhold materials that are “post-decisional” in nature. In other words, once a decision has been made by a government agency, records that set forth that decision should be publicly available. For instance, the U.S. Supreme Court’s Coastal States Gas Corporation case holds that an “agency shall not be permitted to develop a body of ‘secret law’ used by it in its discharge of its regulatory duties and in its dealings with the public, but hidden behind a veil of privilege.”
PRM’s April, 2012 FOIA request
In April of 2012, PRM sent a reformulated request to OLC seeking a more limited sub-set of records pertinent to the 2012 NDAA. PRM’s request also explicitly stated that it was only seeking records that constituted “final determinations of policy or final opinions” that were “post-decisional in nature.”
OLC eventually responded to that request by confirming that it held four responsive documents, but that it was withholding all of them under FOIA Exemption Five. PRM appealed the withholding via administrative appeal to the Office of Information Policy.
OLC letter of June, 2013
On June 25, 2013, OLC sent a letter to PRM in response to its administrative appeal. In its letter, OLC characterized its NDAA opinions as “final opinions” of the agency, but also noted that they were not “post-decisional” materials. Instead, OLC categorized the opinions as pre-decisional legal advice to its client agencies. Because of this clarification, OLC claimed that its four documents were not – in fact – responsive to PRM’s FOIA request.
OIP Administrative determination
Upon administrative review, OIP affirmed OLC’s withholding of the NDAA memos. OIP’s Sean O’Neill wrote that,
“OLC informed you that it does not maintain records such as those you described because all of OLC’s legal opinions and memorandum are pre-decisional. In light of your clarification of the scope of your request and OLC’s subsequent response, I have determined that OLC’s response was correct.”
OIP’s recent determination affirms a much longer-term practice by OLC attorneys. For years, the OLC has maintained that its opinions are merely legal advice to clients, and has chosen to minimize their authoritative effect on federal agencies. OLC opinions have been used as the principle legal authority undergirding many of the government’s most controversial actions, including the Bush administration’s torture and warrantless wiretapping programs.
PRM believes that any final legal memoranda that government actors rely upon to guide their actions should be available for public review. Our opinion is shared by organizations such as Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW), which filed a lawsuit against OLC last year. CREW’s lawsuit seeks to make all of OLC’s final opinions public, by seeking to enforce the FOIA’s explicit language about final legal opinions. More information about CREW’s lawsuit is available here.
In the coming weeks, PRM will continue its pursuit of NDAA-related legal opinions to seek clarity on how these provisions of law are interpreted by federal agencies.


Abstract
Objectives : This study has been carried out with the aim of investigating motor, cognitive and executive functions of a group of accident-prone drivers. Seventy professional accident-prone drivers with major faults and 30 drivers recognized as good and safe drivers, were examined using tests that assessed reaction time, recognition, memory, attention and concentration, as well as tests assessing decision making and response selection. Method: Results : From among the applied tests, perseveration error scores in Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (p<0.01) and reaction time for visual search (p<0.01) significantly differentiate between the accident prone and safe bus drivers. Scores on the visual search test showed highest correlation with IQ among the measures utilized (r=0.35, p<0.01). However, the scores for visual search test did not show significant correlation with other tests except for response errors in continuous performance test (r=0.24, p<0.001), and perseveration errors in Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (r=0.22 p<0.05). Age showed a positive and significant correlation with IQ scores (r=0.39, p=<0.001), response errors in continuous performance test (r=0.38, p=0.001) and reaction time for visual search test (r=0.23, p=0.05). Neuropsychological tests can diffe-rentiate accident-prone from safe drivers. However, regarding the limitation in the validation of this tool, one should be careful in generalizing the results. Conclusion:
Type of Study: Original Research
| Subject: Psychiatry and Psychology
Received: 2009/03/25 | Published: 2009/02/15
Send email to the article author


My first experience with hospital chaplaincy came when my father was dying of cancer, in my mid-30s. Through this difficult time, the chaplains brought our room such peace and calm. It was a profound gift and blessing. One chaplain in particular stands out in my mind. He came to us in the moments after my father passed, and offered us a blessing. He was able to comfort us in a way that was both reassuring and peaceful, holding the space that beautifully allowed us to process, cry, and also laugh. In the years following my father’s passing, I continued to think of the chaplains that spent time with us. The experience simmered in my mind and heart for a long time, until I finally began to wonder if I could do this job, as well. This question led to a discernment process, helping me find chaplaincy as a vocation and calling.
Now, I am a newly minted hospital chaplain, having trained for this role for several years — going through theology school and onsite clinical pastoral training, and balancing group reflections and learning with practical experience with patients. I deeply love discovering new connections with people and supporting others in their spiritual journeys, and look forward to doing this as a profession. Through this training, I have learned so much about myself, and realize I have much still to learn, especially in recognizing opportunities for growth in my understanding of myself and in my faith.
I will never forget the first room I stood in front of during my training at the hospital. I knew I was supposed to be there. I was confident of my discernment and calling. Still, I was terrified to walk in. What if I did the wrong thing? How would I know what to say? What if I couldn’t connect with the patient? I was afraid of all the mistakes I could make and all the things I might forget to do. As I stood outside that door, I listened to my fears, and realized something even deeper — I was afraid of my own imperfections.
I stood in the hallway for a few moments, leaning into this fear. I doubted everything. I began to wonder if I knew enough, and more so, if I was enough. Then I took a deep breath, and did the only thing I knew to do, to call on God for help. Listening to God brought me on this journey to chaplaincy in the first place. If he wanted me there, I needed to lean on him now, more than ever. I asked God to guide my words and my steps and to help me in this work. I asked God for a sense of calm and confidence. And I also asked God for help and for self-acceptance of my imperfections.
After a few more deep breaths, I knocked on the door and began the visit with the patient. He was sitting quietly in his dark room, his head in his hands. I did not know why he was in the hospital. Was he battling cancer? Recovering from surgery? Struggling with depression? I had no idea. I walked in anyway, and said “Hello.” It wasn’t a perfect visit. I probably even said something wrong. However, one thing I do know is that I showed the patient,
I was there. I was present in the room asking him how he was doing and if I could support him. I was there to listen to his concerns and fear and show that I care. Even if I misspoke or struggled to find the right thing to say, at least I could offer connection and caring. It didn’t matter if I was perfect, it mattered that I was there. As I walked out of the room, I immediately realized that God had been there with me, guiding me and helping me have strength to face my fears. God, alone, gave me the push to walk into the room, despite my doubts, and he gave me the comfort I needed to accept my imperfect self and offer my presence to another person.
We all have moments of fear and doubt. I see now how God is always present and guiding me through these difficult times, allowing me to confront and acknowledge these insecurities. I find I must remember to call on God for strength and calm during these times of self-doubt. God’s love surrounds all of us in unconditional loving care. When I open up to this deep love, I find acceptance of my imperfections, and with this, such beautiful new space for growth and faith.


Today at 10:15 AM ET, WTI (West Texas Intermediate) crude oil prices fell 0.8%. Profit booking could be one of the factors behind oil’s decline. Today, the API (American Petroleum Institute) planned to report the inventory report for the last week. A Reuters poll expects a fall of 3.9 MMbbls (million barrels) and a rise of 3.2 MMbbls, respectively, in the API’s crude oil and gasoline inventories level.
However, if the actual data disappoints the market’s expectations, we could see a further downside in oil. For the week ended December 27, the API’s reported draw in crude oil and gasoline inventories were higher than the market’s expectations.
Crude oil inventories declined by 7.8 MMbbls compared to the Reuters poll forecast for a decline of 3.4 MMbbls. Similarly, gasoline inventories declined 0.8 MMbbls, while the Reuters poll forecast an increase of approximately 2 MMbbls.
Could Trump push oil to $100?
The Trump administration is keen to stop any sudden rise in oil prices. In September, Houthis claimed responsibility for drone attacks that wiped out a significant portion of Saudi Arabia’s oil output temporarily. As a result, oil prices spiked 14.7%. However, within a week, WTI crude oil prices pared their gains.
At that time, President Trump tweeted, “locked and loaded” in reference to Iran. However, instead of using military force, the Trump administration came out with stringent sanctions to hurt Iranian interests.
However, after Qassem Soleimani’s killing, we’re seeing a different scenario. According to a CNBC report, Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei pronounced “harsh revenge” Soleimani’s killers. Khamenei stated, “Even if there is consensus on the weakest scenario, carrying it out can be a historic nightmare for the Americans.” Last week, the Pentagon stated that the drone strike was carried out on Trump’s instructions.
Analysts believe that Iran could hit US interests in the Middle East, including new attacks on oil infrastructure in the region. Also, Iran ignored the nuclear agreement limitation and proceeded with its ambition to design a nuclear bomb. This could motivate the US to stop Iran from transforming into a nuclear power.
Since October 2013, WTI crude oil prices have not closed above $100 per barrel. Oil’s oversupply situation could persist in the first two quarters of 2020. However, if the Iran’s Supreme National Security Council’s “13 revenge scenarios” could choke the Middle East’s oil supplies, oil prices could test the $100 level. The United States Oil Fund LP (USO) provides exposure to WTI crude oil futures.
EIA data
Tomorrow, the EIA (US Energy Information Administration) plans to release oil inventory data for the last week. The Reuters poll forecast a fall of 4.1 MMbbls in EIA’s crude oil inventories level. Gasoline inventories could rise by 2.7 MMbbls, based on the Reuters poll.
For the week ended December 27, the US crude oil inventories were on par with their five-year average. The inventories spread represents the difference between inventories and their five-year average. If the EIA reports a decline in crude oil inventories, then the inventories spread could move into negative territory, a bullish driver for oil prices.
In 2018, when active WTI crude oil futures were above the $70 level, the “inventories spread” was in negative territory. Yesterday, active WTI crude oil futures settled at $63.27 per barrel. Read What the Oil Inventories Spread Suggests for Oil Prices to understand this relationship.
Oil’s price target
Yesterday, oil’s implied volatility was 28.4%. After Qassem Soleimani’s killing, both oil prices and implied volatility rose. Usually, a rise in prices and a fall in implied volatility points to a sustainable rise in oil prices. Until Monday, US crude oil active futures were expected to close between $60.97–$65.57 per barrel. The API and EIA’s inventory data are crucial for oil’s upside.
To learn more about this price model, read Oil Prices: Implied Volatility Suggests Upside Is Intact.


Condominium and Cooperative Law in Arizona
Condominiums and cooperatives are forms of "common interest" communities.
They are communities where each individual or family resident rents or owns an unit which is part of a larger building, containing other, similar, residential units. The residents are accountable responsible for the maintenance of the common areas of their living areas, such as gardens, walkways, lawns, and swimming pools. They typically meet this responsibility by paying a monthly fee to support this maintenance.
If you just look at one of these communities, you won't be able to tell whether it's a cooperative or a condominium community.
This is because there are no defining physical characteristics which are distinct to one type of cooperative community, but not the other. The significant differences aren't embodied in physical characteristics, but in the legal ownership arrangement governing the communities: in a condominium community, the residents own the units they live in. In a cooperative community, the units are rented.
Laws and Regulations Concerning Common Interest Communities in Mesa, Arizona
Mesa, Arizona likely has numerous laws and regulations concerning common interest communities. Nonetheless, these are mostly limited to the laws and regulations (zoning, land use, etc.) that concern all real estate owners.
Your day-to-day life in a common interest community will likelyy be impacted more by the rules set by the owner or manager of the property, rather than any local or state laws.
Because the land they occupy is typically private property, it is the owners of this property who make most of the rules that will affect your daily conduct. A responsible manager will typically make rules designed to balance your right to live as you please in your own residence, with the right your neighbors have to a clean, safe, and quiet living environment.
Some of these rules, however, may not be enforceable, if push came to shove. This would depend on the particular laws of Mesa, Arizona which regulate landlords and tenants.
Can a Mesa, Arizona Attorney Help?
If you are involved in an argument with your neighbor, in conflict with a zoning regulation, or in a dispute with your landlord, a reliable Mesa, Arizona real estate attorney can help you prevail.


Abstract
This paper involves the dynamic (stability) analysis of distributed drill-string systems. A minimal set of parameters characterizing the linearized, axial-torsional dynamics of a distributed drill string coupled through the bit-rock interaction is derived. This is found to correspond to five parameters for a simple drill string and eight parameters for a two-sectioned drill-string (e.g., corresponding to the pipe and collar sections of a drilling system). These dynamic characterizations are used to plot the inverse gain margin of the system, parametrized in the non-dimensional parameters, effectively creating a stability map covering the full range of realistic physical parameters. This analysis reveals a complex spectrum of dynamics not evident in stability analysis with lumped models, thus indicating the importance of analysis using distributed models. Moreover, it reveals trends concerning stability properties depending on key system parameters useful in the context of system and control design aiming at the mitigation of vibrations.
Keywords Delay equations Distributed systems Drill-string vibrations Infinite dimensional systems Stability Stick-slip


Despite the large number of existing guidelines and protocols, we have realized that, unfortunately, these will not be enough to maintain a safe environment since they are not supported by:
The unique blueprints we have created, ensure that the measures taken to minimize the risk of exposure to COVID-19, are implemented continuously, adequately, and effectively,
regardless of the type of establishment.
Upon completion of any of our assessments, you will be granted with a visual aid to easily communicate your pledge to the public. –
a Trust Mark!
When you see any of our Trust Marks, feel confident and at ease that you are in a safe environment.
Getting the “in this together” Mark
is possible for every business – It all begins with choosing the most suitable blueprint for you!
Supported by a strategic communication framework, “
in this together” fosters a preventive culture based on best practices, allowing individuals to understand the impact of their daily actions to maintain a safe environment.
Return to the
“new normal” without feeling nervous, fearful, anxious, or unsafe.
Support your company to take the steps towards a safe environment culture.
Assure there are ongoing measures in place to minimize the risk of exposure to COVID-19 in your workplace, or your favorite establishment.
Clearly communicate the actions that stakeholders should take to maintain a safe environment.
Protect individuals at higher risk for severe illness by providing specific controls for them.
You are backed by a prevention and control management system.


Car accidents are, by nature, unpredictable. However, there are certain places where car crashes occur on a more regular basis. Knowing these patterns can help reduce the risk of an incident. In this article, we cover a few common accident scenarios and what you can do to avoid becoming a statistic.
Despite fewer drivers on Missouri roads due to the ongoing Coronavirus outbreak and springtime stay-at-home orders, Missouri state troopers say they have seen a three percent increase in traffic fatalities for the year. Data from the Missouri State Highway Patrol show there were 174 deaths as of April 5
th, compared with 168 deaths in the same time frame in 2019.
Goldblatt + Singer is proud to sponsor MADD’s annual Walk Like MADD & 5K Race in St. Louis. MADD was founded by a mother whose daughter was killed by a drunk driver. This amazing organization combats drunk driving by ensuring that our community fully appreciates the dangers of drunk driving and by deterring people from getting behind the wheel while drunk.
Five people lost their lives today in St. Louis car accidents.
In downtown St. Louis, two people were killed when their vehicle struck an interstate overpass on Highway 44.
Two pedestrians walking on a sidewalk at the intersection of Kienlen and Evanston avenues in Wellston were fatally struck when a car veered onto the sidewalk to avoid a collision with another car.
Goldblatt + Singer personal injury attorneys regularly take over cases started by other lawyers. In recent years, many attorneys who do not specialize in handling auto accident cases try to learn as they go. Unfortunately, the injured party often ends up suffering again.
On October 11, 2014, Megan Mangene was driving home from work when a vehicle driven by Julie Behnen, traveling the wrong way on Highway 44, struck Megan’s vehicle head-on. According to the police, Ms. Behnen had been drinking at Helen Fitzgerald’s Irish Bar and Grill before the accident and had a blood alcohol content nearly three times the legal limit.


Although design defects have been linked to certain types of internal defibrillator leads, resulting in manufacturer recalls, the devices are often left in place, due to risks associated with attempting to remove the wires. However, the findings of a new study suggests that about one out of every three patients may eventually experience serious adverse health effects.
In a research letter published last month in
JAMA Internal Medicine, researchers from Iceland found that one-third of patients who had recalled St. Jude Riata defibrillator leads suffered failures, lead fractures and other problems.
The leads were officially recalled in late 2011, due design problems and insulation defects, but doctors were advised to leave them in place unless a patient experenced problems.
In Iceland, following the recall, a program was put in place to monitor those who still had the defibrillator leads inside of them. The researchers looked at 52 individuals who had the recalled leads implanted from November 2002 to October 2009, and compared them to 50 patients who had implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) from other manufacturers from February 2010 through November 2012, to serve as controls.
According to the findings, 19 of those who had the recalled device suffered lead failure, one of whom died, for a 36.5% failure rate. By comparison, those with leads that had not been recalled only had an 8% failure rate, with only four patients experiencing lead failure. Follow-up on both groups occurred over eight years.
Researchers determined that those who had recalled St. Jude Riata leads had a 25% higher risk of lead failure. Ultimately, there were 15 total deaths in the recalled lead group by the end of the follow-up period, for a rate of 26.9%. That compares to only 10 deaths, or 20% in the control group.
“The lead failures among patients who had the recalled leads occurred over the course of the follow-up time, indicating that leads should be monitored for the full dwell time,” the researchers concluded. “While there is still no clear consensus about the root cause of the Riata lead failure, we conclude that development of more durable ICD leads with regards to biomaterials and engineering design is warranted.”
St. Jude ICD problems
St. Jude Riata leads are small wires used to connect implantable cardiac defibrillators (ICDs) to the heart. They are designed to monitor the heart rhythms and deliver electric shocks if needed to restore normal heart beats.
About 227,000 of the lead wires were sold worldwide before the manufacturer acknowledged that the insulation surrounding the wire may be prone to decay and erode, leaving exposed wires inside patients. This has caused many users to experience unnecessary shocks, or for the defibrillator to fail.
In late 2010, St. Jude removed the leads from the market amid reports of insulation failure, and a warning letter was sent to doctors about the risk of problems in late 2011, which the FDA classified as a St. Jude Riata recall. However, it was estimated that nearly 80,000 of the leads remained active in patients in the United States, as the process of attempting to remove the lead is risky and doctors often recommend keeping the defective lead in place unless there is evidence that it has failed.
In August 2012, the FDA issued a safety communication in response to concerns among individuals who still have one of the recalled St. Jude Riata or Riata ST leads, recommending that individuals undergo x-ray or other imaging exams to monitor the condition of the leads.
In 2015, St. Jude agreed to pay $14.75 million to settle nearly 1,000 defibrillator lead injury lawsuits, resolving most of the litigation.


Despite significant initial responses to therapy, treatment resistance remains the hallmark of metastatic disease. Our group is a multi-disciplinary team focusing on studying treatment resistance in advanced urological cancers. Since starting up five years ago, we have been integrating solid tumour and circulating cell-free DNA genomics, transcriptomics and epigenomics with functional studies to track tumour clone dynamics in patients progressing through multiple lines of treatment. Using this approach, we aim to identify cancer vulnerabilities to be exploited therapeutically and design clinical trials of biomarker-directed strategies for rational treatment selection and sequencing.
Some of our recent work used plasma DNA to track androgen receptor (AR) gene aberrations in advanced prostate cancer patients and identified a strong association between plasma AR aberrations and resistance to second-line hormonal treatments. Our group have also identified a plasma DNA methylation signature associated with the presence of circulating prostate cancer DNA. These findings and others have led to the initiation of the PARADIGM study (NCT04067713, Plasma Analysis for Response Assessment and to Direct the manaGement of Metastatic prostate cancer) evaluating if the detection of circulating prostate cancer DNA is associated with treatment response.
We have integrated our plasma DNA analysis into multiple clinical trials, including the national platform STAMPEDE trial for men starting androgen deprivation therapy. This complements our work leading the genomic analysis of solid tumour material from this trial as part of the STRATOSPHERE consortium, aiming to characterise hormone-naïve prostate cancer from men with metastatic prostate cancer.
We are also part of multiple ongoing international efforts working to implement plasma analysis into clinical practice. In the PCF-SELECT international consortium we are developing a clinically useful plasma DNA targeted NGS assay and in the CRUK Accelerator Award funded PRIME project we are working to integrate all that we have learnt during these past years into a plasma based multimodal test for prostate cancer.
Research overview Funders
Our group receives support from Cancer Research UK (CRUK), Prostate Cancer UK (PCUK), The European Union (EU), The Medical Research Council (MRC), the Prostate Cancer Foundation (PCF) and the Prostate Cancer Research Charity (PCRC), and our work wouldn’t be possible without the support of our patients and their families.


May 10, 2018
After experiencing delivery complications with my first daughter, it was evident that we would need to schedule a C-section for our second daughter. Scheduling and knowing your child's birthday months in advance is an odd and slightly disappointing feeling. However, I was about to find out that this scenario could be a positive thing for not only our baby, but others as well.
At one of my prenatal doctor appointments, I was handed a pamphlet for Unyts regarding birth tissue donation. I had never heard of it before. The doctor explained that the tissue of the placenta had great healing qualities and was used after various types of surgeries to help heal wounds. The only question I had was, "What happens to my placenta if I don't donate it?"
They throw it in the garbage!
Right then and there I decided that I would donate my birth tissue. I couldn't help but think I would be wasting something if I didn't. A few weeks later I received a phone call from Unyts and answered some questions regarding my lifestyle to ensure my birth tissue would be healthy enough for donation, and it was as easy as that. When it came time for the birth of our daughter, I didn't notice anything different in the delivery room. We even received a beautifully knit blanket as a thank you for our donation. It's been almost two years and we still use that blanket.
Ashley Bushen
Birth tissue mom
Learn more about Birth Tissue Donation


"effective" po angielsku z przykładami - Słownik kolokacji angielskich
Water provided places, suburbs and the town itself with the most effective protection. Finally, the plan would not provide effective protection of cities on both coasts. Vaccines would provide the most effective protection at the lowest cost. "We recommend that it takes two methods to really have effective protection," she says. The question is: can this system really guarantee effective protection? In this regard, we ask that the talks focus on the effective protection of traditional names. This system contributes to the effective protection of the Union's financial interests. We need to continue to seek ways to provide greater, effective protection for European citizens. I think that is an essential tool of effective protection. This is an area where we need to show imagination in establishing effective legal protection.
Kliknij na wybrany nagłówek, aby rozwinąć grupy kolokacji, kolokacje oraz przykładowe zdania.


Sometimes a tooth that has undergone endodontic treatment fails to heal or continues to cause discomfort. On rare occasion, a tooth that had initially responded well to root canal therapy can become painful or diseased months or years later, usually due to bacterial contamination inside, causing root-end inflammation. In such situations, the tooth often can be maintained with a second endodontic treatment, or retreatment. This requires "undoing" the initial procedure, which may include removal of a crown, buildup, post, root filling material; and recleansing and enlarging of the entire root canal system. Then the canal spaces are repacked, and a new buildup and crown may be necessary. Occasionally a root canal can be retreated through an existing crown, where that restoration can be repaired and preserved. Retreatment cases are frequently more technically demanding than first-time-in root canal therapy, and often carry a less favorable prognosis. There are instances in which extraction, rather than retreatment, may be the treatment of choice.


Abstract
The present study aimed at investigating whether the effects of intergroup contact on support for discriminatory behaviours against immigrants was mediated by perceived threat from immigrants and positive beliefs toward immigrants. Using data from the Italian national survey on "Discrimination by Gender, Sexual Orientation and Ethnic Origin," which followed a multi-stage stratified cluster sampling procedure, a representative sample of 5509 Italian residents (53.4% women), aged 18 to 74 years, participated. Findings showed that contact with immigrants was negatively related to perceived threat, and positively related to positive beliefs toward immigrants. Mediational analysis conducted by structural equation modelling, indicated that support for discriminatory behaviours was positively associated with perceived threat, and negatively associated with positive beliefs toward immigrants. Both variables together mediated the relationship between contact with immigrants and support for discriminatory behaviours against immigrants; individually, indirect relationships were also significant. To promote interaction between natives and immigrants by reducing the perceived threat and strengthening positive beliefs toward immigrants might lessen support for discriminatory behaviours against immigrants. © 2019 International Union of Psychological Science.


Today is the anniversary of the tragic shooting at Chardon, Ohio, High School. It's sad that we have anniversaries for violent incidents that occur in workplaces. Let's remember schools are workplaces for many. From every unfortunate incident we can learn lessons and improve on the future.
The shooting incident at Chardon High School is in the past, let's learn from it, and focus on the future. We can always glance in the proverbial rear-view mirror while moving forward and focusing on what's in front of us in the windshield). Intervention can work.
A passive approach to a violent intruder (traditional lock-down and shelter in place) is not likely to be as effective as a proactive approach like we saw from Coach Hall in Chardon. It's always great to hear about ordinary people who can accomplish extraordinary things when they are empowered to improvise. adapt and overcome.
Please reload
Featured Posts
I'm busy working on my blog posts. Watch this space!


A Facebook group dubbed the Freedom to Breathe Agency, or FTBA, is promoting fake face mask exemption cards featuring an eagle image reminiscent of the Department of Justice seal. Images of the laminated cards began circling social media on Wednesday and have been deemed fraudulent by the DOJ
The white cards, intended to prevent business owners from denying service to those without face masks, feature a red banner stamped with the words, "Face Mask Exempt Card," and includes the DOJ ADA Violation reporting number and the DOJ seal. The bottom corner of the card depicts the group's logo, an eagle above the FTBA's website.
The card reads: "I am exempt from any ordinance requiring face mask usage in public. Wearing a face mask poses a mental and/or physical risk to me. Under the Americans with Disability Act (ADA), I am not required to disclose my condition to you."
It goes on to include a threat of sorts to business owners:
"If found in violation of the ADA you could face steep penalties. Organizations and businesses can be fined up to $75,000 for your first violation and $150,000 for any subsequent violations. Denying access to your business/organization will be also reported to FTBA for further actions."
While it is true that businesses are not allowed to question the nature of a person's disability or request documentation proving the ailment, when it comes to face masks, things get tricky. A number of states including New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and others enforced rules requiring residents to wear face masks when visiting essential businesses or using public transportation due to the coronavirus pandemic back in April. In Washington state, Governor Jay Inslee issued a public health order on Tuesday requiring individuals to wear a face mask in indoor public spaces as well as outdoor public areas where social distance guidelines can't be regulated.
At the height of the pandemic, people in states like Michigan and Colorado protested against stay-at-home orders and argued that mandatory face coverings infringed their rights.
Originally established as the Anti-Mask Task Force on June 1, the renamed FTBA was "designed to stop face mask orders from spreading nationwide and globally," according to the group's Facebook page.
"Breathing is a vital biological activity to physical and emotional well being. Oxygen is No.1 nutrient for every living organism including humans. Wearing a mask is an unhealthy obstruction of oxygen flow that can lead to hypoxemia and hypoxia, can permanently damage the brain, lungs, heart and about any organ. We must protect our birth right to breathe. This is NOT negotiable," the group's mission statement reads.
Newsweek has contacted the FTBA for comment but has not yet received a response.
The DOJ is already aware of the fake face mask exemption cards and wrote on its website that "these postings were not issued by the Department and are not endorsed by the Department."


Fintech is the driving force behind the transformations within the finance industry. In the last ten years alone, there have been incredible advancements across retail banking, wealth management, and payments. Now, consumers are shifting attention to fintech for even more enhanced financial services, and the trend is gaining greater traction with every passing day. The global pandemic caused by COVID-19 has further increased the significance of fintech in the financial world. Therefore, let’s look at some areas that are emerging as key opportunities for entrepreneurs and will continue to be so beyond 2020.


Minimally invasive selective neck dissection: a prospective study of endoscopically assisted dissection via a small submandibular approach in cT(1-2_N(0) oral squamous cell carcinoma.Ann Surg Oncol. 2014 Nov; 21(12):3876-81.AS BACKGROUND
Selective neck dissection (SND) in clinical N0 (cN0) cases of oral squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) has been performed by surgeons using a retroauricular or modified facelift approach with robotic or endoscopic assistance. However, these procedures provide cosmetic satisfaction at the cost of possible maximal invasiveness. In this prospective study, we introduced and evaluated the feasibility as well as surgical invasiveness and cosmetic outcome of endoscopically-assisted SND via a small submandibular approach.
METHODS
Forty-four patients with cT1-2N0 oral SCC (OSCC) were randomly divided into two groups of endoscopically-assisted SND and conventional SND. Perioperative and postoperative outcomes of patients were evaluated, including the length of the incision, operating time for neck dissection, estimated blood loss during the operation, amount and duration of drainage, total hospitalization period, total number of lymph nodes retrieved, satisfaction scores based on the cosmetic results, perioperative local complications, shoulder syndrome, and follow-up information.
RESULTS
The mean operation time in the endoscopically-assisted group (126.04 ± 12.67 min) was longer than that in the conventional group (75.67 ± 16.67 min). However, the mean length of the incision was 4.33 ± 0.76 cm in the endoscopically-assisted SND group, and the amount and duration of drainage, total hospital stay, postoperative shoulder pain score, and cosmetic outcomes were superior in the endoscopically-assisted SND group. Additionally, the retrieved lymph nodes and complications were comparable.
CONCLUSIONS
Endoscopically-assisted SND via a small submandibular approach had a longer operation time than the conventional approach. However, endoscopically-assisted SND was feasible and reliable while providing minimal invasiveness and satisfactory appearance.
MeSH Pub Type(s) Language PubMed ID Citation Annals of Surgical Oncology,vol. 21, no. 12, 2014, pp. 3876-81. Ann Surg Oncol. 2014;21(12):3876-81. Annals of Surgical Oncology, 21(12), 3876-81. https://doi.org/10.1245/s10434-014-3833-0 Ann Surg Oncol.2014;21(12):3876-81. PubMed PMID: 24912615.


This paper shows that effective information and communication processes are prerequisites for successful development.
They are the lifeblood of good governance; an integral part of empowering and enabling a healthy, vibrant civil society; essential for the creation of efficient and effective economies; and a critical component of social adaptation.
The case for communication addresses the challenge of using communication more powerfully as an agent of change to establish faster, more sustainable development.


Citizens have a critical role to play in advancing transparency, accountability, and effectiveness in the delivery of essential services. Smart Cities leverage technology to effectively engage citizens, efficiently provide services, improve participatory democracy, and enhance administrative efficiencies. Co-City mobile platform is one such solution. The Co-City App empowers citizens to report safety, by-laws, and service incidents to their municipality, while they receive updates and alerts from the municipality. Citizens are able to directly interact with their local government in a convenient and cost-effective manner.
Automate Incident Management:
Co-City provides an intuitive web-based dashboard that enable municipal officials to instantaneously receive rich mobile data and capture incidents reported from multiple channels for appropriate action to be taken following an integrated workflow process. The Co-Safety Dashboard automates incident management, tracks incident progress and creates a single version of the truth within a municipality.
Gain Insights through Data Analytics:
Co-City Dashboard provides data analytics capabilities that enables dynamic visualisation of incidents data in various reports and heatmaps. Data Analytics build intelligence of incident hotspots that can aid strategic deployment of resources, evidence-based decision making, and planning by management of the municipality.
Integration and Customisation:
Co-City mobile platform has API capabilities to enable integration with other systems in a municipal environment. The system is customisable to cater for any service delivery environment whether there is a need to digitise incident management, integrate mobile apps and pro-actively engagement of citizens. It is a solution for Smart Cities that want to leverage technology and innovation to delivery services.


Graphene nanosheets have been prepared from fine graphite powders by a novel electrochemical exfoliation method using non-volatile sulfate salts. This new method utilizes a stainless steel wire cage and platinum wire electrodes to exfoliate pre-pelleted graphite powders into graphene sheets. Synthesized graphene samples have been characterized by Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FE-SEM), Raman spectroscopy, and Fourier Transform Infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. The obtained supernatant shows a stable suspension in DMF. This suspension was then used in organic solar cells (OSCs) as an additive to poly(3,4-ethylene dioxythiophene) polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS). Organic solar cells have been prepared using Indium Tin Oxide (ITO) as the transparent conducting oxide, PEDOT:PSS-Graphene as the hole transport layer (HTL), Poly(3-hexylthiophene-2,5-diyl:[6,6]-Phenyl-C60-butyric acid methyl ester (P3HT:PCBM) as the active layer and Aluminum as the cathode, in ITO/PEDOT:PSS-Graphene/P3HT:PCBM/Al configuration. The photovoltaic cell prepared with graphene as an additive inside PEDOT:PSS exhibited over 66% improvement compared to the reference cells employing pure PEDOT:PSS.


From drought and bushfires, through to COVID-19 and recession. Australia’s food and agribusiness (F&A) sector has navigated major disruptions over the past 24 months.
Despite these challenges, a report released today reveals that the contribution of Australia’s F&A sector to Australian annual GDP could surpass $200 Billion by 2030, more than 3 times greater than its current value of $61 Billion.
Commissioned by the Food and Agribusines Growth Centre,
Capturing the Prize(link to report) takes into account the current impact on the sector of COVID-19 to quantify the 10 Future Trends and 19 Growth Opportunities that – if pursued – will unlock the sector’s untapped potential of over $200 Billion within the decade.
The Growth Centre’s Managing Director, Dr Mirjana Prica said “
Capturing the Prize is rich with the insights required to unleash this significant growth potential. However, making it a reality is not a forgone conclusion – if food and agribusinesses are to reap these rewards, business-as-usual will not suffice”. Capturing the Prize highlights a growing sentiment amongst F&A leaders – food and agribusinesses need to operate differently: adopting a whole-of-value-chain approach that unlocks value on either side of the farm gate. This would facilitate the scaling up necessary to boost competitiveness and ensure supply chain resilience.
In addition to identifying the 19 Growth Opportunities that could see the value of the Australian F&A sector soar beyond $200 Billion,
Capturing the Prize also reveals that pursuing these growth opportunities is estimated to create an additional 300,000 jobs by 2030.
“
Capturing the Prize has the potential to transform the livelihoods of the sector’s 176,000 businesses, the majority being small-to-medium-sized, family-run businesses. It also has the potential to finally align industry direction, government policy, and commercial investment behind a shared target. This will focus efforts to see the sector’s contribution to Australian annual GDP exceeding $200 Billion by 2030,” said the Food and Agribusiness Growth Centre Chair, Dr Michele Allan


Thursday, October 17, 2019
Here's an upcoming free webinar from the National Center on Law & Elder Rights on November 12 at 2 est:
Legal Basics: Self-Neglect and Hoarding Disorders When: Tuesday, November 12, 2019 at 11:00 a.m. PT/2:00 p.m. ET.
Lawyers working with older adults are likely to encounter challenges related to self-neglect and hoarding. Intervening in self-neglect cases can be very complicated. Clients who have a hoarding disorder may be living in conditions that make it impossible for them to live in safety, resulting in self-neglecting behaviors. This Legal Basics session will discuss the most common root causes of self-neglect and hoarding disorders, provide insight into the complexity of the issues, and offer suggestions of how to offer help. The webcast will also explore legal issues and the lawyer’s role when working with older adult clients.
The webcast will cover:
Understanding self-neglect and helping without harming. The line between self-neglect being a human services issue and a legal issue. Assessing possible hoarding disorder cases. Suggestions when working with a person with hoarding disorder. When hoarding becomes a legal issue.
This webcast is being presented as part of NCLER’s forthcoming Elder Justice Toolkit. Stay tuned for more!
https://lawprofessors.typepad.com/elder_law/2019/10/webinar-on-self-neglect-and-hoarding.html


Centre for Ecology & Hydrology) Pioneering research led by the UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology (UKCEH) has devised the first system that classifies lakes globally, placing each of them in one of nine 'thermal regions.' This will enable scientists to better predict future warming of the world's lakes due to climate change, and the potential threat to cold-water species such as salmon and trout.
(


Craniometric parameters including cranial and orbital indices have been employed to determine the sex of a person in forensic medicine. These parameters are usually population specific. However, they have not been documented for a black Kenyan population. This study aimed at calculating the sex differences in the cranial and orbital indices. The cranial vault height, glabellomaximal length and orbital height and length were measured from 150 crania (80 male and 70 female) using a sliding vernier caliper. Cranial and orbital indices were calculated and the results were analyzed. The cranial index was 71.04 for the male and 72.37 for the female (P=0.095). The orbital index was 82.57 and 83.48 for the male and female, respectively (P=0.472). From these results, although the cranial and orbital indices are within range of previously reported values for an African population, they cannot be used independently in sexing of black Kenyan crania.


The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has released for public comment proposed enforcement guidance
addressing unlawful harassment claims brought under federal employment discrimination law. The guidance explains the legal standards applicable to such claims, which may be brought under laws protecting workers from discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, age, and genetic information.
The updates provided by the proposed enforcement guidance are intended to assist employers in efforts to prevent and address harassment in the workplace, an issue that was alleged in over thirty percent of all private sector charges of discrimination filed with the EEOC as recently as 2015.
"Harassment remains a serious workplace problem that is the concern of all Americans. It is important for employers to understand the actions they can take today to prevent and address harassment in their workplaces," said EEOC Chair Jenny R. Yang. Commissioner Chai R. Feldblum further explained, "This guidance clearly sets forth the Commission's positions on harassment law, provides helpful explanatory examples, and provides promising practices based on the recommendations in the report."
The proposed enforcement guidance will be available for comment until February 9, 2017. Input may be submitted either electronically (via www.regulations.gov
) or by sending written feedback to Public Input, EEOC, Executive Officer, 131 M Street, N.E., Washington, D.C. 20507. After reviewing the public input, the Commission will make further revisions to the proposed guidance before finalizing and publishing it.


How Often Can a Person File for an Increase in Child Support After the Divorce Is Final?
By Heather Frances J.D.
Generally, a judge orders child support payments in your divorce decree based on your family’s situation at the time of your divorce. Procedures vary according to state law, but courts can modify child support orders when a family’s situation changes, perhaps when one spouse receives a significant increase in income or the custody arrangements change.
Limitations on Frequency
Most states don’t have a specific limit on the number of times a parent can request an increase in support, but states often have rules that, practically speaking, limit the frequency of requests. Technically, you can file modification paperwork as often as you like, but filing does not mean your requests will be granted. Courts can continue to reject your filings if you do not qualify for a modification.
Significant Change of Circumstances
Typically, courts grant motions to modify child support only if you or your ex-spouse have experienced a significant change of circumstances that affects your finances or care of your child. For example, if your ex-spouse receives a substantial pay raise, that raise may be considered a substantial change. Similarly, the court could consider it a significant change if your ex-spouse becomes disabled and cannot work. However, the court likely will not consider it a significant change if your ex-spouse marries a wealthy individual since the new spouse’s income is not generally included when calculating child support.
Read More: What Is a "Change in Circumstances" in a Custody Case?
Percentages
Some states' statutes have a percentage threshold for when a modification is warranted. For example, Vermont considers a change substantial if the modified amount of child support, calculated using the state guidelines, would be at least 10 percent higher or lower than the previous amount. Arizona law allows a simplified modification procedure if the change is at least 15 percent, since that amount of change is presumed to be “substantial and continuing,” which is Arizona’s standard for modification.
Using State Calculations
If the child support terms in your divorce decree were not calculated according to your state’s guidelines, your state may allow you to ask for a modification to have this calculation done. However, calculation using the state guidelines may result in a decrease instead of an increase. If your state allows, you and your ex-spouse can also agree to a modification, even if it is not based on your state’s guidelines, and you may not have to go to court for a hearing since the court can simply adopt your agreement.
References
Legal Aid Services of Oklahoma: Modification of Child Support Q&A People’s Law Library of Maryland: Modifying Child Support Arizona Supreme Court: Child Support Modification in Arizona State of Vermont Supreme Court: Modification of Child Support Orders Colorado Legal Services: Frequently Asked Questions About Child Support California Courts: FL-350
Writer Bio
Heather Frances has been writing professionally since 2005. Her work has been published in law reviews, local newspapers and online. Frances holds a Bachelor of Arts in social studies education from the University of Wyoming and a Juris Doctor from Baylor University Law School.


Dedicated guide to the lumbar plexus provides invaluable anatomicaland surgical insights Thorough knowledge of the lumbar plexus andits branches is crucial to achieving positive patient outcomes,especially with newer surgical approaches. Many of the nervebranches are formed within the psoas major muscle and carefuldissection is necessary to free them during surgery to preventdamage. Moreover, the iliac vessels are medial to some of thelarger branches of the plexus, such as the femoral and obturatornerves. In the retroperitoneal space, the kidney and ureter arenearby. In addition, due to the overlying peritoneal cavity and itscontents, accessing the lumbar plexus presents considerablechallenges. Surgical Anatomy of the Lumbar Plexus is the only bookon the market devoted to the lumbar plexus and its branches,focusing on anatomy and clinical applications, pathology, surgery,and imaging. Internationally known authors R. Shane Tubbs, MariosLoukas, Amgad Hanna, Rod Oskouian and a cadre of esteemedspecialists provide unique insights, clinical pearls, knowledgebased on thousands of spine surgeries, and a well-roundedmultidisciplinary perspective. Key Highlights Nine separatechapters dedicated to impacted nerves: subcostal, iliohypogastric,ilioinguinal, lateral femoral cutaneous, genitofemoral, femoral,obturator, furcal, and accessory obturator History and overview ofdermatomal anatomy of branches derived from the lumbar plexusAnesthetic blockade of the femoral, lateral femoral cutaneous,iliohypogastric, ilioinguinal, and genitofemoral nerves Tips forpreventing complications and achieving positive outcomes forlateral transpsoas approaches to the lumbar spine and otherprocedures More than 100 novel illustrations provide clarity andunderstanding of a complex anatomical area as it relates to surgeryinvolving the lumbar plexus and branches This one-of-a-kindresource provides crucial surgical and anatomical information onthe lumbar plexus. It is a must-have reference for neurosurgeons,orthopaedic surgeons, and general surgeons. Reading itcover-to-cover will ultimately benefit patients undergoing lumbarspine surgery. This book includes complimentary access to a digitalcopy on https://medone.thieme.com.
General
Is the information for this product incomplete, wrong or inappropriate? Let us know about it.
Does this product have an incorrect or missing image? Send us a new image.
Is this product missing categories? Add more categories.
Review This Product
No reviews yet - be the first to create one!


Abstract
Nonsense-mediated mRNA decay (NMD) is an essential eukaryotic process regulating transcript quality and abundance, and is involved in diverse processes including brain development and plant defenses. Although some of the NMD machinery is conserved between kingdoms, little is known about its evolution. Phosphorylation of the core NMD component UPF1 is critical for NMD and is regulated in mammals by the SURF complex (UPF1, SMG1 kinase, SMG8, SMG9 and eukaryotic release factors). However, since SMG1 is reportedly missing from the genomes of fungi and the plant Arabidopsis thaliana, it remains unclear how UPF1 is activated outside the metazoa. We used comparative genomics to determine the conservation of the NMD pathway across eukaryotic evolution. We show that SURF components are present in all major eukaryotic lineages, including fungi, suggesting that in addition to UPF1 and SMG1, SMG8 and SMG9 also existed in the last eukaryotic common ancestor, 1.8 billion years ago. However, despite the ancient origins of the SURF complex, we also found that SURF factors have been independently lost across the Eukarya, pointing to genetic buffering within the essential NMD pathway. We infer an ancient role for SURF in regulating UPF1, and the intriguing possibility of undiscovered NMD regulatory pathways.


The acronym LED stands for Light Emitting Diode, an electric semiconductor device that transforms electric current into light. This form of illumination has various advantages over the traditional units. In case you're looking for the best lighting modifier for your photography venture, it's critical to consider it. For instance, in comparison to other types of brilliance, illuminators are the most power-saving and efficient. Other multiple benefits come with this type of lighting as listed and explained below:
Variety of Colours and Intensities
The market has various choices for this form of illumination. You can, therefore, select a type of illuminator that suits your work and is compatible with your camera. You can either go for daylight or bi-color. Your eyes can't differentiate light from another, but your camera definitely will. Emitting diodes enables you to shoot shades that look better than in their natural form, thereby, saving you time for editing. Additionally, you can adjust the brightness of this form of lighting remotely. This enables you to control the brightness for your desired use. Emitting diode allows users to get outstanding and creative brilliance without using an extra gel.
You Can See the Lighting as You Prepare Your Shot
Using this form of illumination, you can see the required brilliance as you compose your shot. This allows you to adjust to the needed light instead of trial and error. In some cases, you can move closer to the subject for an outstanding shot when you use this kind of brightness. The flare produces less heat, which can't harm the subject or cause or discomfort.
They are Cool
Most of us have experienced photo studio sessions where the room becomes unnecessarily hot because of the heat being emitted by the traditional glows. However, with Ring lights, the photographer and their subjects don't have to endure the discomforting heat. The serene nature of the radiance keeps the studio comfortable for the photographer and their clients. This form of brightness can also be put in strategic places like corners where the traditional glow forms may be hazardous. Plus, gels can be attached to them without melting, meaning that there is no time required to cool down after finishing a session. This saves you time.
Uninterrupted Change From Photo to Video
In some cases, you may need to shoot both pictures and videos in a scene. With an LED light kit, you can effortlessly do that without any extra equipment. Uninterrupted illumination is essential for video shooting. Adjusting your glow to suit a portrait lighting for still photos and the video scene enables you to work with a less complicated setup of equipment.
Consumption of minimal Power
In contrast to standard forms, LED glow tools are energy-efficiency. They can save proximately between 80% and 90%. This is a considerable decrease in energy use. This implies that approximately 90% of power is turned into a useful application. This form of brilliance also is not only environmentally-friendly but saves a lot of resources.
It doesn't have any harmful chemicals compared to the traditional studio glow tools gadgets. For instance, many conventional fluorescent tubes contain mercury, a substance that is an environmental hazard. Furthermore, LED lights have no harmful materials and can be recycled. This decreases carbon emission and saves the ecology.
Flexible
This form of brilliance can function in multiple environments and setups. For instance, they can work well at lower temperature environments as well as harsh weather conditions. They can perform perfectly well even in fridges and freezers. Illuminators lighten up as soon as you switch them on. They don't require time to warm up before brightening like the traditional lights.
You can turn them on and off regularly. This doesn't affect the tool's life span or amount of light produced. This is a great advantage since the conventional lights can't withstand constant switching on and off.
Less Voltage is Needed
They require a minimal power supply to work. This feature enables you to work in the outsides by plugging it to solar energy. This also comes in handy when you are shooting in a remote or rural area where there is no power supply.
LED's are Durable
Most of the traditional lighting systems have less life span compared to LEDs. Whereas LED can last for more than 15 years, other arrangements can last for less than two years. This means that investing in the LED glow is cost-effective. They require little to no maintenance. This makes them cost-effective and environmentally friendly since they are not disposed of frequently.
Materials are of High Quality
Unlike the standard systems that are made from low-quality stuff, LED brilliance manufactured from high-quality plastic materials that are resistant to shocks and breaking. They are powerful can be used in various scenarios.
Produce Uniform illumination
This form of illumination is made in such a way that it focuses on the subject with minimal reflections. You don't need to purchase additional reflectors when you've got this kind of This light can be targeted to the direction of the subject without other mirrors. With this, you get uniform lighting and therefore save you time in terms of editing.
Purchase LED Ring Light
In case you want to take your photography business to the next level, it is advisable to invest in LED ring light. The tool is of top-notch quality and offers the best and focused images.
Key takeaways
Having LED photography brilliance is the best step to take when you want to elevate your venture. This kind of brilliance displays professionalism in your work and saves you a lot of time in editing. The equipment is also eco-friendly and cost-effective.


In apartment buildings, roof extraction units are often necessary to ensure clean, high-quality indoor air. Ventilation in apartment buildings is often set at a default level, even though the load varies. This results in a significant loss of energy. Ventilation applications in apartment buildings are easy to implement by using HK Instruments’ measurement devices. Our cost-efficient solutions do not need to be supported by an expensive building automation system


My lab's overall research goal is to understand and investigate the cellular and immunological mechanisms underlying the initiation and progression of synucleinopathy disorders. Specifically, my lab research focuses on how the protein alpha-synuclein contributes to microglial activation, peripheral immune cell infiltration, and subsequent activation of the immune response in Parkinson disease (PD) and Multiple System Atrophy (MSA) models. In the lab we work with multiple immune cell types, including myeloid cell subsets and T cells to pursue research regarding these mechanisms. Therapeutic strategies targeting and blocking immune system activation have been neuroprotective, however, differentially targeting immune cell subsets in the central nervous system (CNS), specifically microglia, without undesirable effects on extra-CNS immunity has been a challenge. By combining transgenic animals with an alpha-synuclein viral models of PD and MSA to study the role of immune cells subsets, we aim to dissect mechanisms of immune-mediated disease pathogenesis in synucleinopathy disorders.


The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has created extensive resources related to Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVD-19). The vastness of these resources can also make it challenging for real estate owners, managers, and operators to quickly find the information they need.
Some of the most common questions related to COVID-19 deal with building cleaning and disinfection. The CDC has released interim recommendations for environmental cleaning and disinfection for buildings and facilities with suspected and confirmed COVID-19 cases. These recommendations include how to clean and disinfect, and information on specific cleaning products, as well as additional considerations for employers.
The CDC Interim Guidance for Businesses and Employers webpage also includes guidance for employers to conduct routine environmental cleaning.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) also outlines information on environmental decontamination on its COVID-19 Control and Prevention webpage.
The Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA) of Georgia Foundation has also released a free one-page guide to resources for commercial real estate professionals to consider in maintaining a healthy building environment. The resources relate specifically to COVID-19 and infectious disease control in general.


Type of Activity: Project Grant Grantee: CSME Action, a project of Sixteen Thirty Fund Amount: $1,000,000 in 2019 over two years What is CSME Action?
Center for Secure and Modern Elections (CSME) Action, a project funded by Sixteen Thirty Fund, works to make voting registration easier through pro-voter policy reform advocacy. They are a bipartisan organization dedicated to advancing pro-voter policies at the state level that modernize the voting process and ensure that every eligible voter can have their voice heard. CSME Action supports state-led efforts to defeat bad policies and rules, pivot to strong pro-voter policies, and change the conversation so that both parties engage in pro-voter activities.
Why do we think this project is important?
CSME Action has extensive expertise in advocating for pro-voter legislation and defending existing voting policies from detrimental changes.
They advance pro-voter reforms through different strategies, including providing assistance to local leaders who want to modernize their elections for the 21st century — regardless of party affiliation. They also provide resources to support the efforts of organizations and advocates who elevate the voices of individuals negatively impacted by voting registration policies. Because there is a wide range of needs unique to different regions and communities, CSME Action works with community members to identify the right modernization policies for a specific state. This customized approach builds buy-in from local leaders and community members, and ensures that chosen reforms will be the most effective option.
How is Democracy Fund Voice supporting CSME Action?
In 2019, Democracy Fund Voice approved a grant of $1,000,000 over two years to Sixteen Thirty Fund to support the Center for Secure and Modern Elections (CSME) Action.