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Dr. Stephen J. Blank
Senior Fellow
Area(s) of Expertise: Russia, Commonwealth of Independent States, Eastern Europe.
Phone: (202) 543-1006
STEPHEN J. BLANK is a Senior Fellow at the American Foreign Policy Council in Washington, DC. From 1989-2013, he was a Professor of Russian National Security Studies and Professor of National Security Affairs at the Strategic Studies Institute (SSI) of the U.S. Army War College (USAWC) in Carlisle, PA. From 1998-2001 he was also Douglas MacArthur Professor of Research at the USAWC. From 1980-86 Dr. Blank was Associate Professor for Soviet Studies at the Center for Aerospace Doctrine, Research, and Education of Air University at Maxwell AFB, and Assistant Professor of Russian History, University of Texas, San Antonio, TX. From 1979-80 he was a Visiting Assistant Professor of Russian history, University of California, Riverside, CA.
Dr. Blank has published over 1,000 articles and monographs on Soviet/Russian, U.S., Asian, and European military and foreign policies; testified frequently before Congress on Russia, China, and Central Asia; consulted for the Central Intelligence Agency, major think tanks and foundations; chaired major international conferences in the United States and abroad; and has served as a commentator on foreign affairs in the media in the United States and abroad. He has also advised major corporations on investing in Russia and is a consultant for the Gerson Lehrman Group.
Dr. Blank authored or edited 15 books focusing on Russian foreign, energy, and military policies and on International Security in Eurasia. His most recent book was Russo-Chinese Energy Relations: Politics in Command (London, UK: Global Markets Briefing, 2006). He has also authored Natural Allies? Regional Security in Asia and Prospects for Indo-American Strategic Cooperation (Carlisle, PA: Strategic Studies Institute, U.S. Army War College, 2005); The Sorcerer as Apprentice: Stalin's Commissariat of Nationalities (Santa Barbara, CA: Greenwood Publishing Group, 1994); and co-edited The Soviet Military and the Future (Santa Barbara, CA: Greenwood Publishing Group, 1992). He is currently writing Light From the East: Russia's Quest for Great Power Status in Asia (Farnum, Surrey, UK: Ashgate Publishers, forthcoming 2016).
Dr. Blank holds a B.A. in history from the University of Pennsylvania and an M.A. and Ph.D. in Russian history from the University of Chicago.
*The above information may not be current. It was current at the time when the individual worked for SSI or was published by SSI.
SSI books and monographs by Dr. Stephen J. Blank
Politics and Economics in Putin's Russia
December 10, 2013
Edited by Dr. Stephen J. Blank.
View the Executive Summary
Is this the beginning of the end for Putin's system? The authors investigate the structural bases for Russia's domestic challenges, if not crisis.
Central Asia After 2014
November 03, 2013
Edited by Dr. Stephen J. Blank.
View the Executive Summary
The papers collected here offer assessments of Sino-Russian rivalry, the U.S.-Russian rivalry, and a neglected but critical topic, Chinese military capability for action in Central Asia. All of these issues are essential for any informed analysis of the future of Central Asian security, as well as relations among the great powers in Central Asia.
Russia's Homegrown Insurgency: Jihad in the North Caucasus
October 24, 2012
Edited by Dr. Stephen J. Blank.
The insurgency in the North Caucasus is virtually unknown outside Russia, but it is the greatest threat to Russia's domestic security. These studies open that " black box" and provide much analysis that should lead to further reflection on the issues of Islamist insurgency and counterinsurgency.
Russia and the Current State of Arms Control
September 21, 2012
Edited by Dr. Stephen J. Blank.
The chapters in this volume focus on Russian developments in arms control in the light of the so-called New Start Treaty signed and ratified in 2010 by Russia and the United States in Prague, Czech Republic.
Perspectives on Russian Foreign Policy
September 12, 2012
Edited by Dr. Stephen J. Blank.
Charles de Gaulle said that states are cold monsters. To see how perhaps one of the coldest of these monsters thinks about and acts in world politics take a look at these essays from SSI's annual Russia conference of September 26-27, 2011.
Arms Control and European Security
August 10, 2012
Edited by Dr. Stephen J. Blank, COL Louis H. Jordan, Jr.
Is the Conventional Armed Forces in Europe Treaty dead, or waiting to be reborn? These three papers from the United States, the United Kingdom, and Russia illuminate the complexities and dilemmas facing any attempt to raise the vexed issue of conventional arms control in Europe.
Can Russia Reform? Economic, Political, and Military Perspectives
June 07, 2012
Edited by Dr. Stephen J. Blank.
Can or will Russia reform its state, economy, and armed forces at the same time? These papers provide an answer to those questions.
Russian Nuclear Weapons: Past, Present, and Future
November 22, 2011
Edited by Dr. Stephen J. Blank.
A new work by leading Russian, European, and U.S. experts analyzing the multiple issues of force structure, doctrine, strategy, and Russian national security policy connected with Russia's reliance on nuclear weapons as the main deterrent of threats to its security.
Arms Control and Proliferation Challenges to the Reset Policy
October 31, 2011
Authored by Dr. Stephen J. Blank.
What are the prospects for further progress in the reset policy with Russia regarding arms control and nuclear proliferation by North Korea and Iran? This monograph attempts to postulate where we are, and possibly where we should be going, or will be going, with respect to these issues.
Russia in the Arctic
July 13, 2011
Edited by Dr. Stephen J. Blank.
The Arctic is the newest sphere of international competition for energy and security access. It pits Russia against the other Arctic states. These essays fully explore and analyze what is at stake here and what Moscow has done to increase its capability and influence in the Arctic.
Central Asian Security Trends: Views from Europe and Russia
April 19, 2011
Edited by Dr. Stephen J. Blank.
The war in Afghanistan has made Central Asia an ever more important strategic theater and one over which many states compete to exert influence. This monograph comprehensively analyzes Russia's efforts to exert its influence in the region through 2010.
Russian Military Politics and Russia's 2010 Defense Doctrine
March 15, 2011
Edited by Dr. Stephen J. Blank.
These three papers illuminate the political struggles among the government and the military in Russia to forge a new defense doctrine and ultimately the 2010 doctrine itself. No analysis of Russian defense or security policy is complete without the understanding and analysis provided here.
Civil-Military Relations in Medvedev's Russia
January 25, 2011
Edited by Dr. Stephen J. Blank.
Civil-military relations in Russia are a critical topic in understanding the domestic and foreign policy trajectories of the Russian state. This monograph show how highly undemocratic, and even dangerous, the absence of those democratic controls over the military and the police forces in Russia, when taken together, comprise multiple militaries.
Russia's Prospects in Asia
December 08, 2010
Edited by Dr. Stephen J. Blank.
To what degree should we take Russia seriously as an important actor in Asia? The three chapters here, taken from an SSI conference in January 2010, actively debate the prospects for Russia as it makes its way in an increasingly complex Asian environment characterized by China's rising power and multiple threats, such as proliferation in Korea and the Taiwan issue.
The Russian Military Today and Tomorrow: Essays in Memory of Mary Fitzgerald
July 14, 2010
Edited by Dr. Stephen J. Blank, Dr. Richard Weitz.
The essays in this volume represent both a memorial and an analytical call to action. Mary Fitzgerald of the Hudson Institute was one of the most brilliant and vivacious practitioners of the study of the Russian and Chinese militaries, whose insights helped not just to put those fields of study on the map, but also to influence U.S. military thinking.
Challenges and Opportunities for the Obama Administration in Central Asia
June 01, 2009
Authored by Dr. Stephen J. Blank.
President Obama has outlined a comprehensive strategy for the war in Afghanistan which is now the central front of our campaign against Islamic terrorism. The strategy strongly connects our prosecution of that war to our policy in Pakistan and internal developments there as a necessary condition of victory. The author argues that a new approach, relying heavily on improved coordination at home and the more effective leveraging of our superior economic power in Central Asia to help stabilize the region so that it provides a secure rear to Afghanistan, is just as important.
Russia and Arms Control: Are There Opportunities for the Obama Administration?
March 11, 2009
Authored by Dr. Stephen J. Blank.
As of September 2008, the Bush administration was contemplating not just a break in arms talks but actual sanctions, and allowed the bilateral civil nuclear treaty with Russia to die in the Senate rather than go forward for confirmation. Russian spokesmen make clear their belief that American concessions on key elements of arms control issues like missile defenses in Europe are a touchstone for the relationship and a condition of any further progress towards genuine dialogue.
Prospects for U.S.-Russian Security Cooperation
March 04, 2009
Edited by Dr. Stephen J. Blank.
The prospects for U.S.-Russian security cooperation lay buried under the wheels of Russia's invasion of Georgia in August 2008. But ultimately, given Russia's power, standing, and nuclear capability, dialogue and cooperation will be resumed at some point in the future. Therefore, an analysis of the prospects for and conditions favoring such cooperation is an urgent and important task that cries out for clarification precisely because current U.S.-Russian relations are so difficult.
Towards a New Russia Policy
March 04, 2008
Authored by Dr. Stephen J. Blank.
Russia presents an ever greater challenge to American policy and interests. This monograph analyzes the dimensions of Russian threat perception, the mainsprings and goals of contemporary Russian foreign policy, and the requirements for a coherent U.S. strategy to meet that challenge across the entire agenda of Russo-American and East-West relations.
Turkmenistan and Central Asia after Niyazov
September 28, 2007
Authored by Dr. Stephen J. Blank.
Turkmenistan, a key natural gas producer in Central Asia is undergoing a transition from the sultanistic regime of President Sapirmurat Niyazov to some other form of rule. It also is being courted by all the major powers in Central Asian politics. This monograph examines the domestic dynamics of succession here and in Central Asia and the entwined international rivalry or great game for energy access and influence over regional security in Central Asia.
U.S. Interests in Central Asia and the Challenges to Them
March 22, 2007
Authored by Dr. Stephen J. Blank.
The author assesses U.S. interests in Central Asia and the challenges to them. He recommends policies designed to meet those challenges to American policy in this increasingly more important area of the world.
Rosoboroneksport: Arms Sales and the Structure of Russian Defense Industry
January 31, 2007
Authored by Dr. Stephen J. Blank.
Although Russian observers believe that Washington imposed sanctions on Russian arms sellers and producers because of these firms' arms sales to Venezuela. Sales to such dangerous states oblige us to analyze the Russian defense export program and the structure of its defense industry.
The NATO-Russia Partnership: A Marriage of Convenience or a Troubled Relationship?
November 14, 2006
Authored by Dr. Stephen J. Blank.
Since 2002 Russia has embarked upon a relationship of partnership with NATO, but close examination of this partnership shows an enormous amount of Rusisan ambivalence and, indeed, growing resistance to many of NATO's activities and programs. This growing ambivalence, and even estrangement, reflects both domestic Rusisan trends and the deterioration of East-West security ties.
Natural Allies? Regional Security in Asia and Prospects for Indo-American Strategic Cooperation
October 01, 2005
Authored by Dr. Stephen J. Blank.
American military power has created a strategic revolution by its successful and prolonged projection into and from Central Asia. This monograph explores the strategic and policy ramifications of that revolution in strategic affairs.
After Two Wars: Reflections on the American Strategic Revolution in Central Asia
July 01, 2005
Authored by Dr. Stephen J. Blank.
U.S. military access to Central Asia and the Caucasus is a long-standing fact, but it is desirable as well for the future. The author explains why it is necessary, and how we might ensure that we retain this access to confront future contingencies.
Rethinking Asymmetric Threats
September 01, 2003
Authored by Dr. Stephen J. Blank.
U.S. policymakers, officials, and writers on defense have employed the terms "asymmetric" or "asymmetry" to characterize everything from the nature of the threats we face to the nature of war and beyond. The author challenges the utility of using those terms to characterize the threats we face, one element of the broader debate over the nature of war, U.S. strategy, and the threats confronting us.
Strategic Effects of Conflict with Iraq: Post-Soviet States
March 01, 2003
Authored by Dr. Stephen J. Blank.
The author has been asked to analyze four issues: the position that key states in their region are taking on U.S. military action against Iraq; the role of America in the region after the war with Iraq; the nature of security partnerships in the region after the war with Iraq; and the effect that war with Iraq will have on the war on terrorism in the region.
The Future of Transcaspian Security
August 01, 2002
Authored by Dr. Stephen J. Blank.
Explores the unprecedented opportunities that are now before the U.S. and recommends actions that the Government and armed forces should undertake to consolidate and extend the newly emerging military partnership and cooperative security regime that are now developing. The proper way to exploit them will become a subject of debate.
Threats to Russian Security: The View from Moscow
July 01, 2000
Authored by Dr. Stephen J. Blank.
The documented threat assessments addressed here are clearly the culmination to date of a long-standing process by which the Russian military and government have forsaken the optimistic Westernizing postures and visions of the initial post-Soviet years and returned in many respects to assessments and demands for specific policies that evoke the Soviet mentality and period.
U.S. Military Engagement with Transcaucasia and Central Asia
June 01, 2000
Authored by Dr. Stephen J. Blank.
The Clinton administration has proclaimed a strategy to engage and enlarge the democratic community of states. By virtue of their strategic location adjacent to Russia, the Middle East, and Europe s periphery, and their large-scale oil and natural gas deposits, Transcaucasia and Central Asia have become important testing grounds of this strategy.
European Security: Washington's Shaping Strategy in Action
March 01, 2000
Authored by Dr. Stephen J. Blank, Dr. Thomas-Durell Young, Dr. William T. Johnsen.
Notwithstanding the claims of some in the United States, European affairs continue to dominate U.S. foreign policy and strategic thinking. The end of the Cold War has not seen any blurring of the focus of U.S. officials on European affairs. Managing the implications of the break-up of the Soviet Union and the Warsaw Pact, the seemingly never-ending conflicts in the Balkans, increasing Western norms and institutions in Central and Eastern Europe, and expanding and reforming the North Atlantic Alliance are just some of the issues that require firm and consistent U.S. leadership.
Mediterranean Security into the Coming Millennium
August 01, 1999
Edited by Dr. Stephen J. Blank.
The papers included in this volume represent just such an effort to lay a firmer foundation for this continuing dialogue and to bring together different points of view. In October 1998, the Strategic Studies Institute, assisted by Pepperdine University, assembled a distinguished group of analysts from the United States, Europe, and the Middle East, in Florence, Italy.
East Asia in Crisis: The Security Implications of the Collapse of Economic Institutions
February 01, 1999
Authored by Dr. Stephen J. Blank.
The challenges to the United States and to its armed forces are numerous and highly significant. Moreover, we must begin to address them now even if other institutions cannot or will not do so with us.
NATO After Enlargement: New Challenges, New Missions, New Forces
September 01, 1998
Edited by Dr. Stephen J. Blank.
In 1999 NATO will formally admit three new members and adopt a new strategic concept. In so doing, it will take giant strides towards effecting a revolutionary transformation of European security. On the one hand, it could be said that NATO enlargement closes the immediate post-Cold War period that began with the collapse of the Berlin Wall in 1989. But on the other hand, enlargement raises a host of serious new issues for the Alliance and for U.S. policymakers that they must begin to address now.
European Security and NATO Enlargement: A View from Central Europe
April 01, 1998
Edited by Dr. Stephen J. Blank.
On August 4-5, 1997, the Strategic Studies Institute (SSI), together with the Reserve Officers Association, cosponsored a conference in Prague on "Eurasian Security in the Era of NATO Enlargement."
Russia's Armed Forces on the Brink of Reform
March 01, 1998
Authored by Dr. Stephen J. Blank.
Despite over a dozen years of talk, the Soviet and now Russian military has not undergone a true military reform. What did happen was a form of degeneration and disintegration, but not a methodically planned and directed transformation and/or adaptation to new conditions. Consequently, defense policy, in all of its ramifications, has remained essentially unreformed and remains an impediment to Russia's accommodation to today's strategic realities.
NATO Enlargement and the Baltic States: What Can the Great Powers Do?
November 01, 1997
Authored by Dr. Stephen J. Blank.
NATO's enlargement has brought it to the borders of the Baltic states who covet membership in NATO. However, admitting them into NATO is one of the most difficult problems for the Alliance because of Russia's unconditional opposition to such action and because of NATO's own internal divisions on this issue. Nonetheless, a new regime or system of security for the entire Baltic region must now be on the U.S. and European agenda.
From Madrid to Brussels: Perspectives on NATO Enlargement
June 01, 1997
Edited by Dr. Stephen J. Blank.
NATO's enlargement will be perhaps the most important defense and foreign policy issue of 1997. Certainly, its impact will exert a decisive influence on the future evolution of European security and the institutions that comprise it.
Why Russian Policy is Failing in Asia
April 01, 1997
Authored by Dr. Stephen J. Blank.
Since its inception as a state, Russia has been both a European and an Asian power. Although Russia today, as was true during much of its history, is torn by an identity crisis over where it belongs, its elites have never renounced Russia's vital interests in Asia and the belief that it should be recognized as a great power there. However, that belief and Moscow's ability to sustain it are now under threat, due, as Dr. Stephen Blank's thorough analysis informs us, to the ongoing failures of Russian policymakers to come to grips with changed Russian and Asian realities.
The Dynamics of Russian Weapon Sales to China
March 01, 1997
Authored by Dr. Stephen J. Blank.
Russia has recently sold or transferred many military weapons or technologies to China. Russian state policy has also officially joined with China in a relationship described as a strategic cooperative partnership.
Finnish Security and European Security Policy
September 01, 1996
Authored by Dr. Stephen J. Blank.
In 1995 Finland joined the European Union (EU). This action culminated several years of a fundamental reorientation of Finnish security policy as Finland moved from the neutrality imposed on it by the Soviet Union to a policy with a priority on European integration through the European Union. Finland, in joining the EU, has retained its independent defense and security posture, even as it seeks to strengthen its standing abroad and gain added leverage, through the EU, for dealing with Russia.
Russian Security Policy in the Asia-Pacific Region: Two Views
May 01, 1996
Authored by Major General (Retired) Anatoly Bolyatko, Prof. Peggy Falkenheim Meyer. Edited by Dr. Stephen J. Blank.
In May 1995, the British Ministry of Defence, the Strategic Studies Institute of the U.S. Army War College, the RAND Corporation, the Institute for National Security Studies of the U.S. Air Force Academy, and King's College, London, hosted a conference at King's College on "Russian Defense and Security Policy."
Prague, NATO, and European Security
April 01, 1996
Authored by Dr. Stephen J. Blank.
One of the most likely candidates for future membership in NATO is the Czech Republic. Inasmuch as the debate over this issue is engaging chancelleries all over the United States and Europe, it is necessary to understand how the prospective members view European security issues, what they hope to gain from membership, and how their interests and security relationships mesh with NATO's.
Yugoslavia's Wars: The Problem from Hell
October 01, 1995
Edited by Dr. Stephen J. Blank.
The continuing warfare in the former Yugoslavia looms as one of the most intractable problems in contemporary world politics. For four years the international community has struggled merely to contain this fire and prevent it from inflaming a general European crisis.
U.S. Policy in the Balkans: A Hobson's Choice
August 01, 1995
Authored by Dr. Stephen J. Blank, Dr. William T. Johnsen, Dr. Earl H. Tilford, Jr..
At this writing, the strategic balance may have shifted in the ongoing war in the former Yugoslavia, and the region could be on the verge of a settlement. But, the "window of opportunity" may be fleeting, and the failures and frustrations of the past four years temper any optimism that conflict in the former Yugoslavia will end quickly or completely.
Russian Defense Legislation and Russian Democracy
August 01, 1995
Authored by Dr. Stephen J. Blank.
As recent events demonstrate, Russia's political system has yet to stabilize. This is particularly the case with civil-military relations for, as the course of the Chechnya invasion reveals, control by the government over the military is erratic and the military is all too often politicized.
Reform and the Revolution in Russian Defense Economics
May 01, 1995
Authored by Dr. Stephen J. Blank.
As Russia's invasion of Chechnya shows, the Russian armed forces are suffering from tremendous shortages of capable leaders and soldiers. These problems, among others, relate directly to the shortage of funds for the military. Yet Russia cannot afford to spend more than it is now spending on the armed forces.
Energy, Economics, and Security in Central Asia: Russia and Its Rivals
March 01, 1995
Authored by Dr. Stephen J. Blank.
The collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991 led to the creation of five new states in Central Asia. These states: Kazkahstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Kyrgyzstan, have become both the object of international rivalries in Central Asia and the sources of new political forces as they act to enlarge their independence in world politics.
Russia's Invasion of Chechnya: A Preliminary Assessment
January 01, 1995
Authored by Dr. Stephen J. Blank, Dr. Earl H. Tilford, Jr..
On December 11, 1994, Russia invaded the secessionist republic of Chechnya in the North Caucasus. The aim was to suppress the republic's government, led by General Dzhokar Dudayev, compel it to accept Moscow's authority, and to force it to renounce its bid for independence and sovereignty.
Russian Policy and the Korean Crisis
September 01, 1994
Authored by Dr. Stephen J. Blank.
North Korea's nuclear program is the greatest current threat to U.S. and Northeast Asian security. The outcome of negotiations over this program will have a tremendous impact on the future of the Korean peninsula and on the vital interests of the United States and neighboring states to North and South Korea: China, Japan, and Russia.
Energy and Security in Transcaucasia
September 01, 1994
Authored by Dr. Stephen J. Blank.
One of the world's enduring regional conflicts is in Nagorno-Karabakh. This war pits local Armenians and their cousins from Armenia against Azerbaidzhan and has enmeshed Russia, Turkey and the Western allies (France, Great Britain, and the United States) in a complex series of regional relationships. The international stakes of this war involve the control over exploration for natural gas and oil and the transhipment of these commodities from Azerbaidzhan to the West. Energy resources represent Azerbaidzhan's primary means of economic modernization and are therefore vital to its economic and political freedom.
The New Russia in the New Asia
July 01, 1994
Authored by Dr. Stephen J. Blank.
This monograph offers an account of the current struggle inside Russia over Asian policy and of the direction of that struggle. The author describes the dominant Russian viewpoints on policy in Asia. Current proponents of an Asian policy based primarily upon military considerations seem to hold sway.
Proliferation and Nonproliferation in Ukraine: Implications for European and U.S. Security
July 01, 1994
Authored by Dr. Stephen J. Blank.
Limiting nuclear proliferation is a vital goal of U.S. security policy. With this in mind, the Strategic Studies Institute cosponsored a conference at the University of Pittsburgh on March 16-17, 1994 to deal with the issues involved in achieving this objective.
Does Russian Democracy Have a Future?
July 01, 1994
Edited by Dr. Stephen J. Blank, Dr. Earl H. Tilford, Jr..
In 1854, on the eve of the Crimea campaign, Antoine Henri Jomini wrote, "The Russian Army is a wall which, however far it may retreat, you will always find in front of you." The political unrest and economic disarray that followed the collapse of the Soviet Union and the disintegration of the Communist Empire have altered, but not crippled, the formidable strength of the Russian military.
Turkey's Strategic Position at the Crossroads of World Affairs
December 01, 1993
Authored by Dr. Stephen J. Blank, Dr. William T. Johnsen, Dr. Stephen C. Pelletiere.
This report analyzes the implications of Turkey's policies and the reactions of Turkey's neighbors in three discrete chapters. The authors focus their conclusions and options for U.S. policymakers on the effect of Turkish policies in Europe, the Middle East, and the former Soviet republics. The final chapter summarizes their conclusions with respect to the three regions and provides policy options for continuing U.S.-Turkish relations that are so important in the search for peace and stability in these regions.
Afghanistan and Beyond: Reflections on the Future of Warfare
June 01, 1993
Authored by Dr. Stephen J. Blank.
This report provides an historical analysis of lessons from one of the most important wars of the 1980s, the war in Afghanistan. After reading this study, you will better understand the nature of operations "other than war" in multiethnic states. Many fear that these wars will set the paradigm for wars in the 1990s and will exert pressure on U.S. forces to conduct peacekeeping, peace-enforcement and humanitarian assistance operations in especially dangerous areas.
SSI articles, editorial, and briefs by Dr. Stephen J. Blank
Op-Ed: Relearning War
June 03, 2012
Op-Ed: U.S. Intelligence at a Crossroads
June 17, 2011
Wanted: A Strategy for the Black Sea
June 10, 2010
Resetting the Reset Button: Realism About Russia
December 02, 2009
Russia Challenges the Obama Administration
December 08, 2008
From Munich to Munich
April 09, 2007
Is Eurasia's Security Order at Risk?
May 08, 2006
Seizing the Day: Resolution in and around the Black Sea
March 01, 2005
Toward a New U.S. Strategy in Asia
February 01, 2004
The Transatlantic Security Agenda: A Conference Report and Analysis
December 01, 2001


text: Welcome to Bryan College Station, a community rich in tradition and history, set deep in the heart of Central Texas. Discover a region so diverse you can stroll the scenic campus of Texas A&M University, mingle with real cowboys at a thrilling rodeo, and take in a live symphony performance all in one day. Enjoy the modern amenities of a big city, combined with a warm small-town charm, making this one of the friendliest places in the country! Whatever brings you to town, from a business conference to parents' weekend or a class reunion at Texas A&M University, you'll find a Texas-sized "Howdy" waiting around every corner. Let us serve as your one-stop tour guide -- steering you to the finest accommodations and anything else that might strike your fancy. Savor locally grown organic dishes, gourmet dining, or BBQ cooked by the same family since the 1930s ... all at fabulous restaurants unique to our area. Looking for fun things to do with the kids or fresh ideas for a romantic weekend getaway? Bryan College Station is waiting for you!

subset: commoncrawl


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Quantum Field Theory
Symmetries and Phase Transitions — Strongly Interacting Systems — Quantum Vacuum Phenomena — Particle Physics Phenomenology
With the advent of the LHC, new precision experiments, and new facilities for neutrino and dark matter physics it is now possible to determine very precisely the properties of elementary particles. This new sensitivity presents a new theoretical challenge. Conventional tools to study particle physics phenomenology are often limited to either perturbation theory or models. But to fully capture all phenomena of particle physics requires to understand all aspects of a theory.
Using modern field-theretical tools like numerical simulations and functional methods, genuine non-perturbative aspects of particle physics are studied. The aim is, of course, to make definite predictions for experiments. Currently, the main focus is on the Higgs sector of the standard model, but also new strongly-interacting physics beyond the standard model, like technicolor, or quantum gravity are investigated. Of course, this requires to fully understand also the foundations of modern particle physis theories.
Contact: Prof. Gies, PD Maas


text:
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Thursday, June 22nd 2017, 11:56am
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Location: USA
Friday, June 23rd 2017, 5:21pm
Tuesday, June 27th 2017, 8:29am


text:
Fire drill at Electromach
On November 24 at 11:00 am all employees were startled by the fire alarm.
Phone calls and discussions were interrupted and presentations were stopped. All employees, customers, visitors and students attended were urged to evacuate the premises. Within a few minutes the fire brigade was present at the scene.
Fortunately it appeared to be a fire drill.
You can understand that a regular exercise as this is necessary to guarantee the safety of our employees. If you have suffered any inconvenience of this action, we offer you our sincere apologies.


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Fish in hot water as climate changes
What effect will climate change have on Australia's oceans and reefs? This is the final report in a five-part series in which environment reporter Sarah Clarke sets out to provide answers.
As the planet continues its warming trend, climate scientists say whole marine ecosystems are also feeling the heat.
The east coast of Australia is now considered one of the fastest warming areas in the region.
The CSIRO says fish are moving south in search of cooler waters, and marine heatwaves like the recent one off Western Australia are likely to cause major damage to corals and fisheries.
Scientists also warn climate change is now considered the single greatest threat to the long-term survival of the Great Barrier Reef.
Every month for the past 70 years, the ocean temperature has been recorded at the Port Hacking station off New South Wales.
It is one of a network of sites set up around Australia observing coastal conditions including salinity and ocean temperatures.
Tim Ingleton from the NSW Department of Environment says the sites collect a lot of data.
"They are able to record those temperatures a couple of times per second," he said.
We expect warming to continue for the next 40 to 50 years, so in about the year 2050 it'll be around 2 degrees warmer than it is today.Alistair Hobday
"So we're getting four or five readings per metre of water depth.
"We now have data being collected on every metre of water from the surface to the bottom."
With records dating back to the 1940s, scientists are getting the most accurate snapshot of the warming trend.
Alistair Hobday from the CSIRO expects oceans to keep getting warmer in the coming years.
"The background rate of ocean warming has been about 0.7 of a degree over the last 100 years," he said.
"We've seen warming on the east coast of Australia a bit over 2 degrees in that same period of time.
"And we expect that warming to continue for the next 40 to 50 years, so in about the year 2050 it'll be around 2 degrees warmer than it is today."
The CSIRO says fish and other marine creatures are heading south in search of cooler waters.
"Overall another 45 fish species have moved into Tasmania's waters as a result of this warming - that's about a third to a quarter of the total fish in this region," Mr Hobday said.
"We've also seen changes in inter-tidal animals - about 50 per cent of snails and limpets have moved further south in a 50-year period.
"There's been coastal fish move south, a sea urchin has also moved further south. So we're seeing these changes through the ecosystem."
While it creates new fisheries, there are also downsides.
Scientists are monitoring marine heatwaves.
One was recorded off Western Australia, with ocean temperatures 5 degrees above average over two weeks.
While it cannot be directly linked to climate change, Mr Hobday says events like these may become more frequent.
Global warming, which leads to mass coral bleaching, is my most serious concern for the future health of the reef.Russell Reichelt
"We expect those warm events to become more common in the ocean, but this is the most dramatic one we've observed in human history," he said.
As the oceans warm, corals also struggle.
The Commonwealth says there were no records of bleaching on the Great Barrier Reef before 1979.
Since then there have been at least nine episodes, of which three are considered major.
Russell Reichelt, the chairman of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, says climate change poses a big threat to the reef.
"Global warming on the ocean temperature is variable around the world, but not withstanding it's the single greatest threat to the long-term future of the Great Barrier Reef," he said.
"So climate change, global warming, which leads to mass coral bleaching, is my most serious concern for the future health of the reef."
This is the last in a five-part series by Sarah Clarke on climate impacts.
- Part 1: How will rising seas affect Australia's homes and infrastructure?
- Part 2: What effect will climate change have on agriculture and food production?
- Part 3: What effect will climate change have on health in the Pacific?
- Part 4: What effect will climate change have on Australia's animal and plant species?
Topics: climate-change, great-barrier-reef, oceans-and-reefs, environment, environmental-impact, australia
First posted


text: Jamie McMurray, of Joplin, Missouri, is a race car driver in the Sprint Cup Series. He drives the #1 Bass Pro Shops/McDonald's Chevrolet Impala. In 2003 McMurray was Raybestos Rookie of the Year for the NASCAR Winston Cup Series, and in 2010 he won the Daytona 500 and the Brickyard 400.


text:
Welcome to Day 3 of Quiltmaker's 100 Blocks Blog Tour—and Happy May Day! Isn't this fun?!
(Note: This post is anchored to the top of our blog. Be sure to scroll down for more offers and giveaways in other posts.)
We've already given away fabric bundles, notions and patterns—and of course, copies of Quiltmaker's 100 Blocks Volume 7. If you haven't won yet, there's still plenty of time. Lots of giveaways on the blogs listed below, several at the end of this post, and the Great Big Bundle giveaways on Friday, right here.
We're pleased to have two industry sponsors join us today.
Please support them at your local quilt shop.
They've sent great prizes for our giveaway bundles. We've added more prizes sent by designers appearing in Volume 7. Follow the instructions at the end of this post for your chance to win.
Let's get you going. Enjoy!
Today's Featured Designers
- Amy Ellis amyscreativeside.com
- Arlene Neely quiltingwithrabbits.com
- Cherry Guidry cherryblossomsquiltingstudio.com
- Melissa Peda 100billionstars.com
- Lindsey Rhodes lrstitched.com
- Margie Ullery ribboncandyquilts.blogspot.com
- Dodi Lee Poulsen sashgals.com
- Corey Yoder littlemissshabby.com
- Marcia Harmening happystashquilts.com
- Martha Walker wagonswestdesigns.blogspot.com
- Susan Geddes quiltersnewsletter.com/blogs/insideqn
- Heidi Foltz handmadebyheidi.blogspot.com
Let's move to the giveaways. We have bundles and of course we have issues!
Leave a comment below by midnight Thursday, May 2 and tell us about a quilt project you're working on right now. We'll choose winners and announce them here. Good luck!
The 100 Blocks Blog Tour Day 3 winners are: Angelia L. (#227), Stephanie A (#238) and Lynn (#403).
In case you missed them:
Check out Quiltmaker on Pinterest. You won't be disappointed!


text:
Money Morrow wrote:Quazza wrote:Money Morrow wrote:bada wrote:Money Morrow wrote:After Balut, try some "Chocolate" Meat.
"Chocolate" Meat???? Sounds like something that is "produced" after a TMC and Bigs "union"!!! LOL
LMAO! good one Bada
aka Dinuguan: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dinuguan
lol i had something pretty much identical to that for a breakfast about 3 weeks ago. Was at a little vietnamese place though
You ever try Pho soup?
if you go to the ones without the MSG, it's incredible.
put whatever you want in it. veggies and meat
it'll clear up you sinuses and cure your cold.
oh yer man, that's a regular. Me and a mate of mine (he's Chinese) try make Pho a fortnightly regular. Love it


text:
I'm trying to feel it! I mean, really put my whole heart into wanting this weather to warm up. The best thing I can do is cook my way into spring, and so that's precisely what I'm going to do.
Spring is when the veggies start peeking their heads out of the ground for the first time, and we inevitably start thinking that salads sound extra delicious.
One of my favorite salads to prepare is a seared ahi and pear salad. This salad has slightly exotic flavors that lend themselves perfectly to a warm evening dinner on the porch, or at least for the inspiration to pretend that's where you are.
Picking the right piece of tuna is the key to this fresh and delicious recipe. At the fish counter, ask for sushi grade yellow fin or bluefin tuna, which seems to be easy to find these days due to the in-store sushi bars that have popped up almost everywhere.
This recipe calls for a light searing of the outside of the tuna, while the inside remains rare and beautifully pink. I have kept the ingredients list relatively simple here, but I also love to adorn this salad with blue cheese and asparagus (perfect for spring).
Seared ahi tuna salad with honey soy vinaigrette
6 oz. fresh Yellowfin or Bluefin tuna
Coarse ground salt
Fresh cracked pepper
3 tablespoons canola or other light tasting oil
1. Heat oil in a skillet over high heat.
2. Lay tuna on a flat plate.
3. Using tongs, place tuna in hot oil for 10 seconds. Repeat for all sides, 10 seconds each.
4. Once all sides of the tuna have been seared, place the tuna on a paper towel-lined plate. Let rest for 5 minutes before placing in the fridge until you're ready to serve.
For vinaigrette:
1 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon honey
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
2 tablespoons canola or other light tasting oil
1 teaspoon soy sauce
1/4 teaspoon dry mustard or wasabi powder
1/4 teaspoon grated ginger
1. Combine all ingredients into a small jar with a tightly-fitting lid. Shake until incorporated.
For salad:
Spring greens, washed
Ripe pear, thinly sliced
Toasted almond slivers
1. Toss greens with desired amount of dressing. Top with sliced seared tuna, pear slices and almond slivers.
Jessica Roy is a private chef, specialty caterer and author of foodie blog, Shiso Fresh.


text:
Here are some of the possible reasons:
- Recession – Overall, giving in America was down 3.6% from 2008 to 2009. People, corporations, foundations and governments simply have less to give.
- Recent Disasters –Donors already responded generously this year to the Haiti earthquake (more than $1 billion given in the first 4 months) and to a lesser extent the earthquake in Chile and the Gulf oil spill ($4 million donated in the first 6 weeks). They may not be motivated or able to give again --- this is the so-called donor fatigue syndrome.
- Haiti – The media has reported that much of the promised aid money has not yet reached Haiti and that relief efforts have been very slow. This leaves a bad taste in the mouths of those that contributed and cause them to think twice about supporting relief efforts in another part of the world.
- Summer – Sadly, the timing of this tragedy may be having an impact on donations. Many people are on vacation and outdoors enjoying the summer. They may not be paying as close attention to the news as they do at other times of the year.
- Media Coverage – In contrast to the coverage of the earthquake in Haiti, the media coverage of the Pakistan floods has been minimal. As they say, out of sight, out of mind.
- Victims - The scale of the Pakistan disaster has eclipsed the disastrous tsunami in South Asia in 2004 (which generated donations of more than $1.5 billion). Yet, tens of thousands died in the tsunami, not to mention the hundreds of thousands who lost their lives in Haiti this past January.
- Corruption/ Terrorism Link – Potential donors may be weary of the government and others in Pakistan. They worry if their contribution will really be used to provide aid, as they intented, or diverted to causes they do not wish to fund. In fact, there are already reports that various Pakistan charities, which are fronts for terrorist groups, are getting involved.
- Government – Even with concerns over corruption and ineptitude, some may view the government in Pakistan as being more able to care for its citizens than, for example, the government in Haiti. For example, the government's capacity to help had a dampening effect on giving to Chile after February's earthquake.
Still, various countries and world organizations (such as the US, Europe, the World Bank and the UN) have pledged more than $100 million with about $10-$20 million of that already at work. Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton, is even asking Americans to donate $10 via text messaging. And there are many charities, including Concern Worldwide US, Direct Relief International, Oxfam America, United States Fund for UNICEF, Islamic Relief USA, Plan USA, Save the Children, CARE, Relief International, and ActionAid International USA that are fundraising and providing various types of immediate aid (food, water, medicine, sanitation and housing).
So, we want to know, have you given? Why or why not?


text:
All Collections
The 1998 Gem of the Mountains Digital Yearbook sponsored by: ...
"A tub at the club, volcanoes and margaritas at Casa, a fish bowl at Gambino's, karaoke at the Cap, boggin to 'Brown Eyed Girl' at CJs and hanging out with friends at John's Alley and The Garden ..."
(pdf page 26)
Had a great four years in Moscow! Lets get our football program back to how
it was when I first got to U of I in 1994! We need to get back to the Big Sky conference like we are again in Basketball, this would be the best thing
by far!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
-Matt Insko
The Gem of the Mountains Digital Collection - Copyright 2012, University of Idaho Library


text:
The curious case of Mathew Martoma begins next week.
Martoma, the latest former SAC Capital employee to face charges for insider trading, has a trial scheduled to begin on Jan. 7., barring a last minute-deal or a decision to cooperate with the government.
By all accounts, the government's case against Martoma looks strong. Prosecutors have two doctors lined up to testify that he passed on illegal tips about pharmaceutical drug tests to the accused, according to a report in The Wall Street Journal.
The government has accused the former hedge fund manager of trading on non-public, confidential information about two firms: Elan Corp. and Wyeth Pharmaceuticals, now part of Pfizer Inc. , which resulted in a profit of $276 million.
Besides the hard evidence stacking up against Martoma, former SAC employees have a long history of convictions for insider trading. Most recently, Michael Steinberg, the highest-ranking employee at the hedge fund, was convicted in December of five counts of conspiracy and securities fraud related to insider trading. Steinberg faces up to 85 years in federal prison, according to reports.
The firm, SAC Capital, settled with the government for $1.8 billion and agreed to plead guilty to securities fraud. The firm will also end its investment advisory business as part of the deal in 2012. Founder Steve Cohen has not been charged with anything and has insisted he did nothing wrong.
Clearly, the government wants the big fish: Cohen. And Martoma might just hold the key. So, why is Martoma holding the line and not turning against his former boss, who is a billionaire?
Manhattan U.S. Attorney Preet Bharara's office has so far won 78 convictions in the government's crackdown on insider trading. To date, noone has been acquitted. And Bharara would love Martoma to cooperate if that would help him get to Cohen. There's always a chance of a last-minute plea deal before the trial begins next week.
Martoma, who is married with three young children, is facing 20 years in prison. Given that he allegedly fainted outside his Boca Raton, Florida home when two FBI agents approached him in 2011, it's unlikely he will have the stomach for prison.
-- Sital S. Patel
-- Follow The Tell on Twitter @thetellblog
-- Follow Sital @Sital
More news from MarketWatch:
A major miss for the Oracle of Omaha?
Dan Loeb's Third Point up 25% in 2013: report
China is a No. 1 risk for the world economy: Soros


text:
TEHRAN, Iran (AP) — Iran's foreign minister on Tuesday called the leader of Israel a liar who requires deception to promote his policies, saying Iran will not allow him to influence future talks with world powers about Tehran's disputed nuclear activities.
The remarks by Mohammad Javad Zarif in New York were broadcast on Iranian state TV hours before Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was scheduled to speak to the United Nations General Assembly.
They come a day after Netanyahu implored President Barack Obama to keep punishing sanctions in place against Tehran — and even tighten them if the Islamic republic advances its nuclear programs while negotiating with the U.S.
"This is his nature, to lie... Over the past 22 years, the regime, Israel, has been saying Iran will have nuclear arms in six months," said Zarif. "The continuation of this game, in fact, is based on lying, deception, incitement and harassment." He also called Netanyahu the "most isolated individual" in the U.N.
Iran and Israel see each other as arch enemies. Tehran does not recognize the Jewish state, and supports anti-Israeli militants like Lebanon's Hezbollah and Palestinian Hamas.
Israel has threatened to strike Iranian nuclear installations that the West suspects have a military dimension. Iran denies the charge, saying its nuclear program is aimed at peaceful purposes like power generation and cancer treatment.
Over the years, Israeli officials have mentioned various timeframes for how close Iran is to developing a military nuclear capability. In his address at the U.N. last year, for instance, Netanyahu said Iran would enter the final phase of enrichment by mid-2013. Israel has since backed away from that assessment. Israeli officials say the changing assessments are the result of Israeli and international pressure that have forced Iran to slow its efforts.
Later on Thursday, Zarif said that talks between Iran and world powers planned for later in October should peacefully resolve the nuclear issue, despite pressures from Israel.
"We know that Netanyahu and hard-liners in the U.S. are very concerned," he wrote on his Facebook page. "But we do not allow Netanyahu to decide the future of our talks." He said a majority of Americans now prefer to settle the nuclear issue through talks although they preferred a military option months ago.
Also on Tuesday, Iranian foreign ministry spokeswoman Marzieh Afkham accused Israel of lashing out at Iran because of the effectiveness of its outreach to the United States.
"The pressure by the Zionist regime is because of its isolation, and the fact that that Iran's policy has been accepted on a global level," Afkham said at a regular media briefing in Tehran. "Zionists will apply pressure in various fields and their propaganda will continue," she added.
She said the White House should resist calls for war against the Islamic Republic, and that the U.S. was currently undergoing "a test to prove to what extent it can resist the war mongers."
"We expect U.S. officials to have a realistic attitude toward the great Iranian nation and to address it with respect," she added.


text:
Click on the image to check out StyleScrapbook LIVE on YouTube.
Your voice is so cute..I love your little accent :)I think that video blog is such a good idea ^^
Que bueno escucharte!!! lo del video me ha encantado,es genial xfin poderte escuchar aunque tamb nos encantaria uno en español jejeje pero bueno sabemso q estas de vacaciones igualmente muchissimas gracias x tenernos al tanto de todo……muchos besitossss ;P
you're so cute!! i'm really excited to see what you will do with the videos!xoxohttp://charmingfrivolity.blogspot.com/
Check out my blog!!http://fashionmorning.blogspot.com/
Keep doing videos!!! I love it!! Such an amazing idea! Gorgeous as usual!
Super buena idea!!! Mostrar México!!!=) pasatela muuy agusto, cómo me encantaría ir también,, pero me quedan 8 meses aquí!! jaja have fun!,, TQM amiga!
I love the idea! I can´t wait for the new video♥ Nicol
Thx for the video! You have a really nice voice :)http://fashion-colorhater.blogspot.com/
andy, you're so gorgeous!
andy, you're so gorgeous!
HEY. So I feel like a creep because I never comment on here but: I'm obsessed with your blog/we actually have almost identical personal style, and today I went shopping and was deciding between two things at H&M and literally thought to myself "What would Andy wear?" to help me choose (heather gray t-shirt dress with puffed sleeves…so good). Anyway. I've featured you on my blog a couple of times, you should check it out. It would make me super happy.Enjoy being home! Thanks for the fashion inspiration.xx,La Vie En Gingerhttp://emmaaubryroberts.blogspot.com
Just wanted to say that I love your blog & your style… You're awesome!! & extremely pretty! :)http://www.woaibeijing.over-blog.de
Tengo grandes amigos en diferentes ciudades de México y no me podría gustar más esta idea. Como dirían ellos, qué padre! jaja. :)Disfruta tus vacaciones en casa :DBesos desde Madrid.:)
Cute video! Now I adore you even more, can't wait to see more of your vidblogs and "another sight of mexico".Happy easter!
Such a great idea! n u look co nice !
you should take everyday a video!youre such a nice an cute girl ;)
you're so pretty! keep on making movie's!
this is like meeting you in person! such a good idea Andy! love love love the video!Enjoy Mexico.. cannot wait to see more of itlots of love from South Africaxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxox
What a lovely surprise! Compliments Andy!www.abitoffashion.com
Change your hair part back to the side – it's more flattering.. :)
Me encanta la idea del video blog! Ademas llevo años queriendo ir a mexico con mi madre y mi hermana ya que mi madre viaja mucho alli y tiene amigos asi q es un destino seguro! Aconsejanos!!!Un besoSandrahttp://dearlookbook.blogspot.com
This is such an amazing idea! you're adorable in the video! I love your blog, and it's really nice to get to see you "in motion: talking/ moving" than the usual photo stillsCan't wait for more!much loveeeeee.
Oh my gosh! Your accent is soo interesting. Even though you said you don't speak dutch.. you sound very dutch with a twist of Mexican :) Love it!Goodle x
Baby you're so cute !!i can't wait for others videos from mexico !!xx<3Stéphanie
Love it!Kiss from athens
cant waaaaaait
I love your blog, I'm defenently going to follow you! But I have a question (hopefully you'l answer): How do you get the size of your photo's so huge? mine are just small. Well thank you at least :)
so lovelly in the video… we want to see your room in mexico :pkiss from Portugal***márcia*
i dont know why but i'm excited because you are here in mexico well i'm little far away from your house but it doesn`t matter you are here :D well enjoy your vacations & have fun ♥xoxo
noo puedo esperar aa ver mas viideos! (:
GREAT IDEA ! I will certainly follow your channel :Phttp://myowncatwalk-p.blogspot.com/Would you like to visit and/or leave a comment ? ALL THE BEST !
hihi, I wasn't expecting for such a nice voice ;)XoXo-Axellewww.ax-elle.blogspot.com
LOVE that i can now match the writings, the photos & a voice!!!Hope you enjoy you'r trip…Barby, from Argentina…
wat een leuk idee! ben erg benieuwd. het ziet er daar in ieder geval mooi uit!!
Buenas! Me encanta tu blog (sobretodo tu estilo) y creo que la idea de los videos es genial. En este video sales super dulce. Además transmites un montón a la gente, sólo hace falta ver cuántas personas te siguen para darse cuenta de esto.Que vayan bien esas vacaciones en Mexico, ya tengo ganas de ver las fotos (siempre he querido ir a países latinoamericanos y Mexico debe estar super bien!).Besos y saludos desde Barcelona!!http://sweetandfashionworld.blogspot.com/
so cool to hear you speak! you speak english so well! now i want to hear how you speak mexican and dutch haha! and you look sooooo pretty! anyways, i can't wait for more vids!xx
Check, it's you on the dutch website telegraaf.nlxoxoRianne (dreamingmydreamswithyou.blogspot.com)http://www.telegraaf.nl/vrouw/mode_beauty/
Saludos desde España!! Me encanta tu blog!
Wow, that's a really cool idea. Love it! Can't wait to see more videoblogs.-The Trendy Fashionistahttp://thetrendyfashionista.blogspot.com
Hi Ms. Andy^^ truly,a great idea to make a vid post! you're so smart =) this is what i thought about before.i wanna see more of you in action, like speaking, walking…remember your bloggers fashion show contest? i was like, wow! finally, i saw you walking on the ramp =D it's not just a picture that I always imagine whenever I see your photos, it's like, how did she pose that way? so awesome!! when i watched the vid, i said, that's it! so yeah, can't wait for more! AND really thanks for giving us a chance to see more of Mexico! wohoo~ keep it up girl! =) xoxo
woow tienes una voz super dulce! espero ver tus sitios favoritos de Mexico pronto! kisses! :D
This is an amazing idea!! I can't wait to see another video!!You voice is so nice!!
Really nice video!
i think, mexico is awesome place.i love the video and can´t wait for more =)
great video :DXOXOcheck out my blog: http://loresfashion.blogspot.com
you're so pretty:) and have a nice voice!I'm waiting for more:D:D
Aww I really like what you're doing by representing Mexico the way you know it. :)Shttp://notjustmedical.wordpress.com
Hola guapa!Soy Abraham de Barcelona,queria felicitarte por tu blog q me encanta y sigo siempre q puedo.Muchos besos!!!
Thats adooorable andy!!!love it sooo much !
I love this new idea of videos!! You look amazing and your accent really surprised me! I'm an Australian living in America and I'm always interested in different types of accents! Gorgeous video and keep up the awesome work on your blog! All the best,Leanna xoxo
And you have such a cute accent lol
You have such a PRETTY voice!!!! I love it!!! Thanku so much for this video!!! I can't wait to see others!
yeahhhhh!!!!I was waiting for your video! You're so cute^__^ Great idea!P.S. I looooooove Mexico!kisses frome Romehttp://romanusmodusvivendi.blogspot.com
This is an amazing idea! I've always wanted to visit Mexico in a different way, not just by staying in an all-in hotel in the Riviera Maya…It would be really nice to know about your favourite places…
i am looking forward to a new videos!
Love the idea…Ill be following your videos! Have fun…XO,
What a brilliant idea! I'd love one day to visit Mexico :) So I'll appreciate watching your videos! Have a great time!
Love the video Andy!Have fun in Mexico!!!!!
You. are. amazing.
you are so cute!! have a great time in mexico!!
CAN'T WAIT TO SEE THE VIDEOS!! XXwww.thestylingbee.blogspot.comwww.thestylingbee.blogspot.comwww.thestylingbee.blogspot.com
you're so beautiful and i love your accent! can't wait to see your videos of mexico.
love your voice :sherlynlavenia.blogspot.com
I love it!!! Thank you :)
oooh it was so fun watching you speak haha eso sono tonto pero es lindo verte como en vivo despues de haberte visto solo en fotos, me encanta la idea! y México es uno de mis destinos próximos for sure!Andy alguien comento un poco antes que mi diciendo que te hagas un formsping pleaase piensalo es una forma tan facil para preguntarte cosas y tambien para ti es mui facil y rápido de responder!;)muchos besos y disfruta el hermoso clima!<333
Siendo latina comprendo y apoyo la idea de mostra y dar a conocer lo bello de nuestra cultura… muy buena iniciativa!!! :)http://viaggiodellafarfalla.blogspot.com/
Una traducción por favor!!!!no comprendo el videoooooooooooo :S
I loove mexico and would love to see the non-touristy side! thanks!www.keepfashion.wordpress.com
puea, bienvenida! descubri tu blog hace como una semana y me emociono descubrir una paisana con tanto estilo. Me encanto la idea del video blog, suerte.
Hey chica! Me encanta que hagas esto! Eres una chava con muchos ojos detrás de ti y es una excelente oportunidad para demostrarle al mundo lo que México es en realidad, cuando yo vivía en Italia no bajan a méxico de Tequila, sombrero y Speedy Gonzalez! :SBss!!http://aurinkuus.blogspot.com
you should start a form spring or do a Q&A post……i love your blog and have a million questions, such as, do you speak dutch?
Excelente!!!! Me encanta la idea mostrar lo lindo que es México!!!! Saludos!!!!
oh my god what a LOVELY idea! you are one of the top bloggers when it comes to originality. I love your posts and the way you write to us! So it's sounds great to ear your voice besides reading your posts (now I can associate one voice when I'm reading). You look great in the photos you took in México. It must be a wonderfull place to belong (at least it's a sunny one!) :). Thank you for share some stuff about your place, it's really nice to meet you a little more, you are a big inspiration!love,carolina flores from l a s t m i n u t e d r e a m s.http://lastminutedreams.blogspot.com/
Cool post! Great video!
such a cute video! love your blog!xx
YAY!I loved the surprise!!!xoxo
La mayoria de la gente tiene una idea muy esteriotipada de los paises americanos (con excepcion de eeuu y canada obvio) y me parece muy bien que quieras enseñarnos el lado de México que la mayoria de gente no conoce, yo nunca he estado allí pero seguramente es un pais precioso que no tiene nada que ver con lo que la mayoría de la gente piensa. Yo soy de Perú, pero vivo en Madrid, y he escuchado tantos comemtarios equivocados acerca de estos paises tan preciosos que no puedo evitar sentirme identificada contigo. No puedo esperar para ver ese lado de México:)un besazo
So cute, loved that idea of showing us Mexico :D **
Ive been following you for months now but this is my first time commenting :) Love this wee video idea you have such a fantastic accent, cant wait to see more of mexico! :)
so nice idea)))) thank you, cutie)))
Great to see/hear the real Andy instead of just gorgeous photos! have fun visiting your family xstylejunkiejournal.blogspot.com
So cute!! This is a really good idea to show us your side of Mexico, away from the usual cliché! And the weather looks so perfect, I really am jealous right now!
you are so lovely!! it is nice to see you "alive" not only at pictures:)
lovely!Add me on Bloglovin! http://www.bloglovin.com/en/blog/1510664/the-golden-mode/followwww.thegoldenmode.com
Love, love, love to see you in real life. It's a great ideia. I'm from Portugal and i can wait to visit Mexico. xoxo
Great video ! Love the idea and I wish I was in mexico right now..O and amazing glasses !!
I think that's an amazing idea to show the non conventional places in mexico, I'm always searching for stuff like that.
What part of Mexico are you in? My parents are from Mexico and it is a beautiful place and not how people think:)
Ah it's so funny to finaly see you in movement! your voice and accent are so different than i had expected! really like the video! :)hope you have a wonderful time with your family!!groetjes uit Holland!
your so adorable! love your accent :)EXcited for the vids!xxx
your way too pretty Andy, and I love your accent, it's so unique, and i cant wait to learn more about mexico, it sounds amazing :)thanks for all teh support etc..xxCamillaintothefoldfashions.blogspot.com
You're so adorable! So refreshing to hear what Andy sounds like! Disfruta de tu tiempo en Mexico!
Really nice to hear you :D I'd love to see more of Mexico!
Great video!!!
U sound really good. I look forward to new posts, great idea…Kiss from Croatia
its really cool seeing your in video compared to reading the blog =]
Andy,finally I heard your voice.you are gorgeous…;)you cheared me up with the video
Ahhh love it :) So cute! :)x
Hi thanks!I just saw the video so nice!Just love your blog you rock!can´t wait for another pots!x amber
you are just sugar sweetheart! :)xx
So cute!
oooow, you are sooo cute, andyyy :):)kisses kisses
Does this video stands on youtube?because i can't see him!I hate my stupid laptop!x amber
Great idea, can't wait for those videos :) And you're so cuteee!
awww you have such a beautiful voice!!!haha I love your video!!!!have fun in mexico and cant wait to see the pics from mexico!!xoxohttp://minaischic.blogspot.com/
I love this new idea of yours! Everyone thinks that Mexico is just like Tijuana or like the streets of downtown Los Angeles and it's NOT! so cheers ^.^
Andy I love you!Thank u too for your blog…It's my favourite! and I follow you on facebook too!Waiting for news from Mexico…I love you again!!
Aw, great video! You have such a great voice! Really cool to hear the voice behind Andy! =] And please hand me over your sunnies, because they are to die for! Haha!Where are they from and did you buy them recently? =] XX
love the idea! And cute video. Have a nice time in mexico!
You are so sweet! Love the video and can´t wait for more!
so cute!X
cool!! :)
Such a cutie voice.!I looooooove Stylescrapbook.com!!and Andy..!love and best wishesAlexandra
Andy eres genial :)
What a cute Post…you´re so pretty :)
Oh, I love you <3 You are so cute and beautiful. I love reading your posts and I'm looking forward for more.
a video blog! andy it's such a great idea! hope to SEE you soon!
i really like your accent.i used to wonder how you all must be in reality, now that i saw this video, its proved that you not only are a trend setter, but also a bright smart personality.keep up the great work.best wishes
OOh you look so cute and beautiful in the video! It was really a surprise to no only see but also to hear you.I'm really looking forward to the next videos!
That is so cute! Best regards from Belgium :)
You look so cute in the video Andy!this is such a nice surprise.LOVE IT!!!xoxo
:) I love the idea! can't wait for more!have a good day!http://www.talk-asia.blogspot.com
awww you're such a cutie :)best wishes from Germany!!
Comments are closed.


text:
The table attached provides the IFSC, NEFT, RTGS and IFSC codes for The Saraswat Co-Operative Bank Ltd Kalwa, Maharashtra, Thane. These codes are IFSC codes only
and are used for the purpose of net banking. Apart from the IFSC codes, transactions through net banking also require account holders name, account number,
account type and branch name. Any online transaction like money transfer, bill payments, payment towards premium, etc, can be done through NEFT, RTGS and
IMPS.The Saraswat Co-Operative Bank Ltd IFSC code can also be used for fund transfers and other online transactions.
Although due care has been taken in collecting the IFSC codes and putting them in a user friendly manner, in case of any error, you are requested to report
the same through email@example.com. Other banks willing to be listed on our website can contact us on the same email id.
The Saraswat Co-Operative Bank Ltd Kalwa, Maharashtra, Thane IFSC code is an 11 digit code where 4 Characters represent The Saraswat Co-Operative Bank Ltd, 5 characters are reserved for
future use and the last 6 characters stand for the Kalwa branch code. The bank encourages its customers to use net banking to transfer funds to
other parts of the country as physical cheques and drafts cannot be used for the same, and net banking is far faster and hassle free.
The IFSC code for The Saraswat Co-Operative Bank Ltd Kalwa, Maharashtra, Thane branch is SRCB0000061 for participating in net banking transactions through RTGS,
IMPS and NEFT modes.
This code is can also be spotted in the table provided.
The Saraswat Co-Operative Bank Ltd Kalwa, Maharashtra, Thane IFSC code is available on the right side of the table. The table also contains the phone number and
address of The Saraswat Co-Operative Bank Ltd. For quick search enter the first four letters of the branch name of The Saraswat Co-Operative Bank Ltd. You can find all details including IFSC
code of the Kalwa branch of The Saraswat Co-Operative Bank Ltd necessary for online transfer of funds, which is the most convenient and time saving way of making
The IFSC codes for the Kalwa branches in Thane of District in Maharashtra State can be obtained by using the search box or just by browsing
through the table. Alternately, you can also use the control options provided at the bottom of the table.
The full form of RTGS is Real Time Gross Settlement, as the continuous (real-time) settlement of funds transfers individually on an order by order basis
(without netting). To transfer funds using RTGS, you need to provide the IFSC code of the recipient branch to identify it. It should be noted that all
branches do not have IFSC code. Learn more about RTGS.
'IMPS' is Immediate Payment Service and is commonly called Interbank Mobile Payment Service. Here also, IFSC code of the recipient bank has to be provided
to conduct the money transfer operation at any time in 24 hours. This service is provided by National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), an organization
that regulates retail payments in India. Get more information about IMPS.


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Prices dropped on Park City-Salt Lake City bus route
The Utah Transit Authority bus route between Park City and Salt Lake City, one of the top local public transit accomplishments in a decade, restarts weekend service for the winter season on Saturday and Sunday.
And riders will not have to pay as much for the service as they had before. A one-way ticket will cost $4.25, down from $5.50 previously. The ticket also allows someone to transfer to local buses in the Salt Lake Valley and the TRAX light rail system without having to pay another fare, another change in the service. The price of a 30-day pass, meanwhile, has been dropped from $242 to $153.
The weekend service will be the first since April, when the Saturday and Sunday buses stopped when the ski season ended. There will be three buses in each direction when the weekend service restarts.
Kent Cashel, the transit and transportation manager for City Hall, said officials want to increase rider numbers significantly, leading to the decision to reduce the prices. He said the numbers have been "positive," but higher rider counts are desired.
"We need to grow that number to twice what we've got," Cashel said.
Cashel said the route averaged 215 riders per day in January, which is traditionally one of the busiest months of the year in Park City. The number fell to 85 per day in July. Fewer buses were operating on the route in July.
Cashel said the target this winter is between 400 and 425 riders per day. The target will be between 150 and 160 per day next summer, he said.
He said officials will work with tourism and business officials in Park City and Salt Lake City to better align the routes with their needs. Cashel also said talks are ongoing with large employers in the Salt Lake Valley such as the University of Utah and University Hospital that could lead to more of their workers using the route.
The route will expand to its full winter service on Dec. 9. There will be five buses in each direction on weekdays starting that day. Three buses per day will still drive in each direction on weekends.
The buses are 45 feet long and carry 46 people.
City Hall and the County Courthouse provide subsidies to the Utah Transit Authority for the service. Each of the local governments put up to $235,000 into the route during the 12 months between October 2011 and October 2012. The figure was within the budget that had been set and it will be the same in the period between October 2012 and October 2013.
Stops in the Park City area include New Park, Canyons, Park Avenue, Park City Mountain Resort, the Old Town transit center and Deer Valley Resort. Stops in the Salt Lake Valley include Central Station, 3900 South 2300 East as well as 3900 South and Wasatch Boulevard.
The bus route launched in 2011 after years of negotiations between Park City, Summit County and state transportation officials. They see the route between Park City and the Salt Lake Valley as something that reduces traffic, cuts emissions and offers people without vehicles a transportation option.
For more information, visit the following page on the Utah Transit Authority website: http://www.rideuta.com/mc/?page=Bus-BusHome-Route902. More information is also available by calling Park City Transit at 615-5301 during regular business hours.
County loses employees with half-century of experience, ties to East Side
Anita Lewis, Brent Ovard and Travis English were influential in shaping how residents interact with the county.


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There really is something to be said for a room re-make. Emptying a room, scrubbing it down, and giving it a new coat of paint is better then therapy. It is just what the doctor ordered when I redid my laundry room. The laundry / mud room is right off the kitchen and where you enter from the garage, so if it is a pit, you unfortunately, see it on a daily basis.
The whole thing was bringing me down.
We can close the door in the kitchen, but most days it is left open. The room originally had yellow walls, goldish brown tile, red cabinet and black washer/dryer.
(unfortunately, no before picture)
It was overflowing with coats, hats, shoes, boots, bags.... you get the picture... a PIT.
I painted the doors years ago and adorned them all with numbers or vintage babbles of some sort.
After scrubbing and removing everything I could, I then painted the walls, coat hook board and the cabinet. Then I had fun scouring the house for some Farmhouse finds that I could fill my room with. Maybe not everyone has these extras just laying around, but I do. When you own your own shop for almost 10 years, you tend to have some extras just waiting for a new space to be displayed in.
The little cabinet was once my fathers little chest of drawers when he was a small child. I painted it and added hardware when my sister handed it off to me years ago. I was in a red stage back then. Now, not-so-much, but I like the little pop of contrasting color it adds to the room.
And then there is the rug!
I went in search of a rug, just like this, but when I saw it at the store I pretty much said "hell no"
It was just too bright for my tastes.
After picking it up and putting it back half a dozen times, I finally talked myself into it. After all, I could always return it if I got home, and it was was way off base. But I came searching for exactly this color, to set the tone of the room... why was I so afraid of it....
Color is Good.
... or so I reminded myself.
Once home I loved it. Always go with your gut.
The cabinet, repainted gray *LOVE*
The GROCERY sign and the Cow were exactly the Farmhouse touches I needed.
New storage space for some of my large bowls and cake plates.
Perfect touch.... I think
This little vintage camera was the color inspiration for the entire room makeover.
The door going out to the garage got a fresh coat of paint and my vintage flash cards got a new home.
I love to dry my Peonies and use them in displays when I can.
They not only look good, but they smell good too.
Dry them
Gather them (three different colors)
wrap in burlap and tie with twine
ready to go!
That's the laundry room creation at the House of Miller.
The drawing around the cow on the first picture is black chalk.
It goes on well with fresh painted walls and when you are tired of it just wash it away.
Thanks for stopping


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Hello to all you Cavy keepers on GL! This is a brief topic to introduce both myself and my two new fuzzballs to the community. I recently adopted two gorgeous piggies from previous, loving owners.
- Name: Becky
Location: England
Likes: books
Dislikes: irresponsible owners
- Age:12 months
Gender: male
Coloration: white with grey and tan marbling
Personality: relaxed and laid-back
Favourite food: bell peppers
Dislikes: broccoli
- Age: 12 months
Gender: female
Coloration: light grey, with white blaze on nose and white crown
Personality: sassy and spirited
Favourite food: parsley
Dislikes: zucchini
We ended up talking about her ponies, and animals in general. She mentioned that she wanted a good, devoted home for Marble and Ebony. I considered the option for a while from practical standpoints, met with the piggies and decided to go ahead.
Currently, I help people learn basic computer skills at a woman's charity. I obtained Marble and Ebony around two weeks ago. I hope to put up some pictures fairly soon, when I work out how.
Marble is an adorable dope who is friendly and easy going, as well as tolerant. He is also quite the happy little one, and likes to jump around playfully. Ebony is more spirited, protesting loudly if she gets irritated, or if treats don't come at the right time. However, they were both well raised and handled frequently, so they are quite loving.
Right now, Marble may have a mild case of an UTI, nothing serious. I took him to the vet today as he was squeaking whilst peeing. He has antibiotics and painkillers in low doses just to be sure.
Well, that's it for now I will report back with anymore news soon.


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Les Suites Orient Shanghai is truly unique Shanghai boutique hotel is ideally situated in the city center's prestigious Shanghai Bund. From the moment guests step through its doors, Les Suites Orients distinguishes itself from other Shanghai boutique hotels with its refreshing atmosphere of privacy and comfort. The Les Suites Orient Shanghai Hotel offers 168 exquisite luxury rooms, including 43 luxurious suites as well as rooms for disabled guests on request. From the 5th to the 20th floor, each room boasts a panoramic view of Shanghai, including the glamorous Bund, the futuristic Pudong CBD area, and the classical Yu Garden. All rooms of Les Suites Orient are decorated in a palette of delicate earth tones with wood paneling and floors to provide an oasis of calm in one of the world's most dynamic cities and are equipped with complimentary Internet connection, Les Suites Mobile Life, Apple universal dock, and include daily complimentary breakfast. Les Suites Orient Shanghai hotel also offers 24-hour multilingual concierge service, 24-hour business center, in-room dining, library, and tea, coffee, and refreshments all day in Le Lounge. The hotel boasts a fitness center open 24-hours, equipped with free weights, treadmills, cross training machines, etc.
Category: Avantgarde Superior - Learn more
Le Suites Orient Shanghai boutique hotel is ideally situated in the center of the famous Bund, a Shanghai district that houses dozens of historical buildings. Thanks to its central location, Les Suites Orient SHanghai offers a panoramic view of the Huangpu River and Pudong skyline. The hotel is within walking distance to Bund Promenade and the Yu Garden and offers convenient access to the main areas: People's Square, Nanjing Road, Huaihai Road, Pudong Finance District, and the Shanghai World Expo Zone. Pudong International Airport is 50 km away from the Hotel, about 45 minutes drive, while Shanghai Hongqiao Airport is 20 km away, about 25 minutes by car.
Address: 1 East Jinling Road - Shanghai, 200002, China - Les Suites Orient 上海东方商旅精品酒店 Shanghai Map
Description: This 28-30 m² studio concept room overlooks the ever-changing Shanghai, plus moder interior design.
Occupancy: 2 Adults & 1 Children
Description: Take in all of historic Bund and Huang Pu River from the view of this 30m² studio corner room.
Occupancy: 2 Adults & 1 Children
Description: A 45m² modern room offers partial Huangpu River and/or city views in the heart of Shanghai.
Occupancy: 2 Adults & 1 Children
Description: This 45 m² room offers expansive Bund views, plus modern interiors that include one king or two plush twin beds
Occupancy: 2 Adults & 1 Children
Description: this 45 m² junior suite offers a separate lounge area that lets you rest without giving up the privacy of the bedroom.
Occupancy: 2 Adults & 1 Children
Description: This 43 m² suite overlooks the ever-changing Shanghai, plus moder interior design.
Occupancy: 2 Adults


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Physical Sciences
Research Highlights
February 2009
Exploring Innovative Nanotechnologies for Energy Harvesting
One of the world's most cited authors, Dr. Zhong Lin Wang discusses his discoveries
Exploring innovative nanotechnologies for converting energy mechanical energy (e.g., body movement, muscle stretching) and other forms of energy into electric energy is the latest according to Dr. Zhong Lin (Z.L.) Wang, the invited speaker of PNNL's Frontiers in Materials Sciences Seminar Series held January 26, 2009. The seminar series features innovative speakers from industry, government, and academia discussing novel ideas and advancements in the material sciences. "In the whole field of physics and materials science this takes a big chunk of it. This is an exciting new field," said Wang, a Regents' Professor and COE Distinguished Professor at Georgia Tech. Wang discussed innovative approaches for converting nano-scale mechanical energy into electric energy by piezoelectric zinc oxide nanowire arrays.
The operation mechanism of the electric generator relies on the unique coupling of piezoelectric and semiconducting dual properties of zinc oxide (ZnO) as well as the elegant rectifying function of the Schottky barrier formed between the metal tip and the nanowire. Based on this mechanism, Wang and his team from Georgia Tech have applied their research by exploring the following areas:
- DC nanogenerators driven by ultrasonic wave in bio-fluid.
- Textile fibers for energy harvesting.
- Electricity generation by finger moment or a running hamster.
He introduced the principle of the nanogenerator and its potential applications and discussed a new field on nano-piezotronics, which uses piezoelectric seminconducting coupled property for fabricating novel electronic devices and components. "Think about the use of a tire when driving or the energy you give off when walking," Wang noted when discussing this new field.
The presentation was well received by staff members who attended. "Seminars like these are effective for scientists to follow the current advances in other fields, "said Dr. Yanwen Zhang, a senior research scientist at PNNL.
Wang is the world's top 25 most cited authors in nanotechnology from 1992-2002 (ISI, Science Watch). His entire publications have been cited over 26,000 times. He has authored and co-authored four scientific references and textbooks, published over 550 peer-reviewed journal articles, 55 review papers and book chapters, edited and co-edited 14 volumes of books on nanotechnology, and holds 20 patents and provisional patents.


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Freedom in the World
You are here
2012 Scores
Freedom Rating (1 = best, 7 = worst)
Civil Liberties (1 = best, 7 = worst)
Political Rights (1 = best, 7 = worst)
The government in 2011 pursued a crackdown on dissent that had been ongoing for several years. The 11th Communist Party Congress, held in January, confirmed promotions for officials linked to the military and security forces and generally heralded a continuation of existing policies. Elections for the country's one-party legislature were held in May. In July, the new chamber approved Nguyen Tan Dung for another term as prime minister and chose Truong Tan Sang as state president.
Vietnam won full independence from France in 1954, but it was divided into a Western-backed state in the south and a Communist-ruled state in the north. Open warfare between the two sides erupted in the mid-1960s. A 1973 peace treaty officially ended the war, but fighting did not cease until 1975, when the north completed its conquest of the south. Vietnam was formally united in 1976.
War and unsound economic policies mired Vietnam in deep poverty, but economic reforms that began in 1986 drastically transformed the country over the next two decades. Tourism became a major source of revenue, as did the export of foodstuffs and manufactured products. However, the ruling Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) rejected any parallel political reforms that would threaten the one-party system. Criticism of the government continued to be harshly suppressed, and official corruption remained widespread.
Vietnam secured entry into the World Trade Organization in 2007, and the government subsequently embarked on a serious and extended crackdown on peaceful dissent, displaying a sharply reduced tolerance for open criticism and prodemocracy activism. Dozens of dissidents were arrested, and many were sentenced to lengthy prison terms. This process continued unabated in 2011. Among other cases during the year, former CPV member and activist Vi Duc Hoi was sentenced to prison in January for posting prodemocracy articles on the internet, a prominent scholar was sentenced in April for criticizing the government, four activists received prison terms in August for protesting against land confiscations, and multiple bloggers and online activists were arrested.
At the 11th Communist Party Congress in January, party members generally approved a continuation of the current policies of gradual economic opening and rejection of political reform. The congress chose hard-liner Nguyen Phu Trung as CPV general secretary, and picked other officials with strong security and military ties for top positions, sidelining some more moderate figures.
Tightly controlled elections for the one-party National Assembly were held in May, with the CPV taking 454 seats, officially vetted nonparty members securing 42 seats, and self-nominated candidates garnering the remaining four. In July, the new legislature approved Nguyen Tan Dung, the prime minister since 2006, for another term, and elected Truong Tan Sang as the new state president.
In response to ongoing tensions with China over disputed territory in the South China Sea, Vietnam allowed months of anti-China protests in Hanoi and other cities in 2011. Meanwhile, the United States continued to upgrade its defense ties with Vietnam despite concerns about the country's poor human rights record.
Vietnam is not an electoral democracy. The CPV, the sole legal political party, controls politics and the government, and its Central Committee is the top decision-making body. The National Assembly, whose 500 members are elected to five-year terms, generally follows CPV dictates. The Vietnam Fatherland Front, essentially an arm of the CPV, vets all candidates. The president, elected by the National Assembly for a five-year term, appoints the prime minister, who is confirmed by the legislature.
Corruption and abuse of office are serious problems. Although senior CPV and government officials have acknowledged growing public discontent, they have mainly responded with a few high-profile prosecutions of corrupt officials and private individuals rather than comprehensive reforms. Government decisions are made with little transparency, and revelations of contracts with Chinese and other foreign companies for major mining or development projects have generated considerable controversy. The sons of several senior CPV leaders were appointed to top positions during the 11th Party Congress in 2011, suggesting that nepotism is becoming a serious problem in Vietnam.
The government tightly controls the media, silencing critics through the courts and other means of harassment. A 1999 law requires journalists to pay damages to groups or individuals found to have been harmed by press articles, even if the reports are accurate. A 2006 decree imposes fines on journalists for denying revolutionary achievements, spreading "harmful" information, or exhibiting "reactionary ideology." Foreign media representatives in theory cannot travel outside Hanoi without government approval, though they often do in practice. The CPV or state entities control all broadcast media. Although satellite television is officially restricted to senior officials, international hotels, and foreign businesses, many homes and businesses have satellite dishes. All print media outlets are owned by or are under the effective control of the CPV, government organs, or the army.
The government restricts internet use through legal and technical means, and this effort was stepped up significantly in 2010 and 2011, particularly in the period directly before and after the 11th Party Congress. A 2003 law bans the receipt and distribution of antigovernment e-mail messages, websites considered "reactionary" are blocked, and owners of domestic websites must submit their content for official approval. Internet cafés must register the personal information of and record the sites visited by users. Internet-service providers face fines and closure for violating censorship rules. The government detained numerous bloggers and online writers during 2011, and cyberattacks disabled websites and blogs that were critical of the authorities or provided independent information about sensitive topics, including Roman Catholicism, human rights, and the party congress. Nevertheless, online criticism of government scandals and corruption has increased in recent years, and official pressure on the medium eased somewhat after the May 2011 elections.
Religious freedom remains restricted. All religious groups and most individual clergy members must join a party-controlled supervisory body and obtain permission for most activities. The Roman Catholic Church can now select its own bishops and priests, but they must be approved by the government. In early 2011, the government allowed the Vatican to appoint its first official representative to Vietnam, which was seen as a breakthrough in relations between Hanoi and the Holy See. Many restrictions on charitable activities have been lifted, and clergy enjoy greater freedom to travel domestically and internationally.
However, harassment, arrests, and occasional attacks directed at religious minorities continue to occur. Activist organizations reported in 2011 that Vietnamese and Lao troops killed four Hmong Christians near the border in April, and that detentions of Christian leaders remained common, particularly in central Vietnam. In May, security forces reportedly dispersed a gathering of thousands of Hmong Christians in Dien Bien. Foreign observers were prevented from visiting the site of the unrest.
Academic freedom is limited. University professors must refrain from criticizing government policies and adhere to party views when teaching or writing on political topics. Although citizens enjoy more freedom in private discussions than in the past, the authorities continue to punish open criticism of the state, and this climate of repression increased in the period surrounding the party congress in 2011. In April, legal scholar Cu Huy Ha Vu was sentenced to seven years in prison for "propagandizing against the government."
Freedoms of association and assembly are restricted. Organizations must apply for official permission to obtain legal status and are closely regulated and monitored by the government. A small but active community of nongovernmental groups promotes environmental conservation, land rights, women's development, and public health. Human rights organizations and other private groups with rights-oriented agendas are banned.
The Vietnam General Confederation of Labor (VGCL), closely tied to the CPV, is the only legal labor federation. All trade unions are required to join the VGCL. In recent years, the government has permitted hundreds of independent "labor associations" to represent workers at individual firms and in some service industries. Farmer and worker protests against local government abuses, including land confiscations and unfair or harsh working conditions, have become more common. The central leadership uses such demonstrations to pressure local governments and businesses to comply with tax laws, environmental regulations, and wage agreements. Enforcement of labor laws covering child labor, workplace safety, and other issues remains poor. Critics also allege that the government has intentionally kept minimum wages low to attract foreign investment, although wages have been rising as multinational companies migrate to Vietnam due to labor unrest in China.
Vietnam's judiciary is subservient to the CPV, which controls courts at all levels. Defendants have a constitutional right to counsel, but lawyers are scarce, and many are reluctant to take on human rights and other sensitive cases for fear of harassment and retribution—including arrest—by the state. Defense attorneys cannot call or question witnesses and are rarely permitted to request leniency for their clients. Police can hold individuals in administrative detention for up to two years on suspicion of threatening national security. The police are known to abuse suspects and prisoners, and prison conditions are poor. Many political prisoners remain behind bars, and political detainees are often held incommunicado. Human rights groups in 2011 expressed concern that jailed blogger Nguyen Van Hai appeared to have been seriously injured while in custody, and that Thaddeus Nguyen Van Ly, a veteran rights activist who had been released on medical grounds in 2010, was returned to prison in July.
Ethnic minorities, who often adhere to minority religions as well, face discrimination in mainstream society, and some local officials restrict their access to schooling and jobs. Minorities generally have little input on development projects that affect their livelihoods and communities. In March 2011, Human Rights Watch reported that the government had increased repression of Montagnard Christians over the past year, detaining asylum seekers, confiscating land, and closing down worship groups.
Land disputes have become more frequent as the government seizes property to lease to domestic and foreign investors. Affected residents and farmers rarely find the courts helpful, and their street protests often result in state harassment and arrests.
Women hold 122 seats in the National Assembly. Although economic opportunities have grown for women, they continue to face discrimination in wages and promotion. Many women are victims of domestic violence, and thousands each year are trafficked internally and externally and forced into prostitution. A number of cases of international adoption fraud have been exposed in recent years.


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Avoid the blue blocks and try to survive for 60 seconds! How long can you last?
Dart and weave through the maze in this online version of The Line Zen!
Avoid all the colored cubes in the world famous endless 3D block avoiding game Cubefield!
Enter the soccer field and play a game of soccer with dozens of world famous (but bodyless) soccer players!
Tank.io (or Tank.ai) is an epic MMO tank battle arena. Upgrade your tank and try to defeat all enemy tanks!
Run, jump, slide, and rush through the temple in this online version of the game Temple Run!
Command your elven army and defend your lands from waves of sea serpents, evil sorcerers, and gnoll tribesman!
Craft some decadent, mouth-watering, hot-from-the-oven Cookie Sundaes in Papa Louie's new restaurant: Papa's Scooperia!
Jump from train to train, make sure not to get caught and try to get as far as you can in this free online PC version of the hit-game Subway Surfers!
Fight hordes of terrorists, upgrade your weapons, and bring back peace in the game Stickman Peacekeeper!
Take on the challenges and run, jump, slide or grind your way to the finish line in Dennis & Gnasher Unleashed: Leg It!
Race the messy office desktop tracks and perform stunt to upgrade your car in the online game Desktop Racing 2!
Evil monsters want to make Red Ball's planet square: Roll, jump and bounce to save the world in Red Ball 4-ever!
Change shapes and take out enemies by moving at the perfect rhythm and drop that beat in the game Beat Dropper!
Use the perfect strategy, deploy your bravest soldiers and try to win all the battles in the war game Squad Rifles!
Unfold the blocks in the correct order to fill the space of each challenging level of this online Folding Blocks game!
Slide the cannon, fire up a lotta balls and break as many blocks as you can in the ultraddictive Ballz-ish shooter game Shoot Up!
Start bouncing, perform awesome backflips and frontflips, and become the world's number one Trampoline Stickman!
Click to hop through as many rings as possible in this challenging and super addictive online Flappy Dunk game!
Grab your motorbike and ride and flip along the never-ending neon tracks of the game Rider!
Your father was a great adventurer, but as his son you do not possess the same skill or fortitude. Build up a Hero Agency to keep adventuring in the family!
Dodge traps and steal gold in this online version of the unique and award-winning platformer game King of Thieves!
Rule the snow in this fast-paced snowboard game. Shred your way to riches and glory!


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hoi.polloi wrote:Possibility of being faked?
Is it even plausible for the above images Simon has compared not to have been faked?
Lie in one, lie in all.
A fake google car is an urban project: our fake Google team will drive all around several cities in Europe and its suburbs in order to meet the inhabitants and propose to take photographs in their homes, with theirs dogs, children, etc. It could also go deeper…
Only available on April 1st.
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