Metallika from Surfaces brings “the beauty of pure aluminum, transformed in sophisticated patterns and color combinations with stone and glass.”

Tile Redinow offers Redi Trench, an incredibly exciting marriage of design and function for the commercial construction sector, in particular for the hospitality industry.

PBOT leaders say they’ve already addressed many of the auditor’s recommendations. They also say the scale of Portland’s traffic violence crisis is too big for just one bureau to address. by Taylor Griggs

The Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT) adopted its Vision Zero Action Plan in December 2016, with the goal of eliminating traffic crash deaths and injuries in the city. But in recent years, Portland has seen its highest numbers of traffic injuries and fatalities in decades. Pedestrians have faced a heightened risk of traffic violence in recent years, and parts of Portland with higher low-income populations and communities of color are also disproportionately impacted. 

The daylight between PBOT’s stated Vision Zero goals and the increase in recent traffic crash deaths prompted scrutiny from the Portland Auditor’s Office. A new report from the Auditor’s Office, released Wednesday, says PBOT “partially completed” safety projects identified in its Vision Zero plan, but notes the bureau doesn’t adequately evaluate the outcomes of the safety projects it completes. 

The Auditor’s Office recommends PBOT create a plan to evaluate its projects “to determine which get the desired outcomes and where Vision Zero efforts are most needed.” The office also asks the bureau to install promised speed cameras to help with traffic safety enforcement and recommends PBOT “revisit its equity methodology to ensure it accounts for smaller scale improvements that could have positive equity impacts.” 

“These efforts to collect data, analyze, evaluate, and carefully track which safety projects have the most desired outcomes could help move toward Vision Zero’s goal of zero fatal and serious injury traffic crashes,” the audit report states. 

The audit report highlights concerns about the Vision Zero program that many transportation and safe streets activists have raised for years—though the Auditor’s Office didn’t issue as harsh an indictment of PBOT as some critics may want. Earlier this year, when PBOT leaders presented their 2023 Vision Zero report to City Council, some Portland advocates didn’t mince words about their thoughts on the city’s implementation of the program. 

“There is no question that Portland's Vision Zero Program has been an abject failure,” Sarah Risser, a local transportation safety activist, wrote in public testimony to City Council in April. “Given its abysmal track record, it is reasonable to conclude that it will continue to be a failure.”

The Portland Auditor’s Office didn’t mark PBOT’s Vision Zero plan as a failure in its report, and PBOT leaders ultimately agreed with its recommendations, some of which the bureau says it has already implemented on its own. 

PBOT, too, acknowledges that larger structural changes are needed to save lives on the streets. Bureau leaders say they will continue working on their Vision Zero plans, but they hope the city government transition will break down silos and encourage more involvement in solving the problem of traffic violence on Portland’s streets. 

The year PBOT adopted the Vision Zero plan, 42 people died in traffic crashes on Portland’s streets. In 2019, when the bureau updated the plan to emphasize transportation system safety and focus more on actions within PBOT’s control, 48 people were the victims of traffic violence. In the last three years, more than 60 people have died in traffic crashes in Portland each year, with 69 fatalities in 2023. 

When PBOT leaders presented the 2023 Vision Zero report to City Council earlier this year, they acknowledged the rise in traffic fatalities since the program was adopted. But they said the program is successful in areas PBOT has been able to invest in, and said the bureau’s budget woes have curtailed its progress. The audit report suggests PBOT could get more out of the projects it does complete by improving its evaluation processes, which have historically been lacking. 

“Without systemic evaluation of safety outcomes, the Bureau is missing the opportunity to create more alignment between the work they do on safety projects and the overall goal of Vision Zero,” the report states. “A more systematic approach would allow trends to be identified and analyzed to better understand the outcomes of completed projects, and which may need to be altered or dropped. As traffic deaths continue to increase it is vital that the Bureau consistently evaluate completed safety projects so they can see which are working best at shifting the trend towards the intended goal of zero traffic deaths and serious injuries.” 

The second major recommendation the audit report suggests is that PBOT “do more to enforce speed limits” by following through on its promise to install more speed cameras throughout the city. Despite research showing the effectiveness of enforcement cameras as a way to reduce speeds and increase traffic safety—without involving the police—PBOT has been slow to install them. The bureau has blamed its camera vendor for the lag in speed camera implementation, but says it now has 37 cameras in operation or construction, and current contracted cameras will be online early next year. (By March 2023, PBOT had only installed nine cameras in the prior eight years.) 

The report also states despite PBOT’s attempt to prioritize and fund safety projects equitably—based on both crash data and neighborhood demographics—it may be missing “smaller safety projects with possible equitable outcomes” if they aren’t located on high-crash corridors. The Auditor’s Office recommends PBOT use more qualitative data to determine the projects it carries out. 

In response to the auditor’s recommendations, Public Works Service Area Deputy City Administrator Priya Dhanapal and PBOT Director Millicent Williams said while they “largely agree with the recommendations in the audit,” it’s a bit outdated. Last year, PBOT issued a Vision Zero Action Plan update for 2024 and 2025, which addresses many of the issues outlined in the audit report. 

“Our current Vision Zero Action Plan includes priorities directly tied to evaluation, delivery of the camera program and speed management as well as equity objectives,” Dhanapal and Williams wrote. “The audit was conducted on work and commitments outlined 3-5 years ago and work that took place during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic.” 

Dhanapal and Williams also said PBOT needs help from other city bureaus to solve the crisis of traffic violence. 

“Eliminating traffic deaths and serious injuries in Portland is possible [and] PBOT can lead the way,” Dhanapal and Williams wrote in a letter responding to the auditor’s report. “However, Portland will not reach Vision Zero with street design alone…. A societal commitment to meet basic human needs and implement strategies to change current conditions are necessary to reach many of our shared goals, including Vision Zero. These changes require leadership, investment, and commitment from partners beyond PBOT.”

PBOT leaders say they hope that collaboration and commitment will be easier due to the upcoming changes in Portland’s government. 

“Eliminating traffic deaths and serious injuries is a City commitment and goal, but as a City we have focused the discussion on what PBOT does to change streets,” Dhanapal and Williams wrote. “We believe the City transition provides an opportunity to reengage City bureaus in Portland’s Vision Zero commitment and integrate the Safe System approach to traffic safety as a comprehensive prevention strategy to save lives.” 

President-elect Trump announced he intends to nominate Florida Rep. Matt Gaetz as attorney general, putting a fierce critic of federal law enforcement in charge of the Justice Department.

A Democratic member of the U.S. Congress is doubling down as he faces calls to resign after expressing concern about trans-identified male athletes competing in female sports. 

The election is over, but conversations surrounding the outcome are sure to continue for weeks to come. With Thanksgiving right around the corner, knowing how to engage with friends and family members with differing political views may help keep tempers at bay - and relationships intact. Virginia Tech expert Todd Schenk shared his advice for how to keep the peace.

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Event Begins: Thursday, November 14, 2024 8:30am
Location: Arbor Lakes Dome
Organized By: Sessions @ Michigan

Register today for the 2024 Hacks with Friends (HWF) — a hack event sponsored by the U-M Office of the VPIT-CIO. All IT and technology professionals and advocates from across U-M's four campuses are invited to break away from their everyday activities and have some fun doing what they do best in a friendly competition. The 2024 Hacks with Friends (HWF) will take place on November 14 & 15 at Arbor Lakes.  

NOTE: Registering after November 6 does not guarantee that meals will be available for you. You will need to find lunch on your own.

LEGENDS OF THE MANDAN LIMITED EDITION PRINT by Ken Riley is a(n) Limited Edition. The Edition is Limited to Limited to 250 pcs

As the end of 2014 draws near, Canadean forecasts the top trends which will influence consumer behaviour in 2015, and provides an insight into how manufacturers and marketers can target these evolving consumer needs to drive sales over the next year.

Today's consumers are much more likely to focus on changing their snacking habits in order to achieve weight loss success.

In their latest Global Beverage Packaging Market report, market research firm TechNavio (technavio.com) estimates that the beverage packaging industry will have a compounded annual growth rate of 4.11% globally over the next four years.

The final report by the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) on Serbia’s 24 April 2016 early parliamentary elections recommends a comprehensive review of legislation to further improve election process.  

The report, while finding the elections were efficiently administered and held in a competitive environment, spells out key areas that would benefit from such a review, including unclear rules on candidate registration, inadequate regulation of campaign finance, deficiencies and loopholes in dispute resolution mechanisms, an absence of sanctions for some violations and the lack of provisions on election observation.

The report, published on 29 July 2016, notes that, while fundamental freedoms were respected and candidates were able to campaign freely, biased media coverage, undue advantage of incumbency and a blurring of the distinction between state and party activities hindered a level playing field for contestants. To this end, the report recommends specific campaign regulations, including the introduction of ceilings on campaign expenditures and preventing the misuse of administrative resources and the abuse of office.  

In noting the absence of an effective mechanism for monitoring media conduct during the campaign, the report recommends clarifying the competences of the media regulatory body in investigating and sanctioning breaches of legislation in a timely manner.

A review of the election appeals system to guarantee an effective and timely remedy for all complaints, and particularly in cases related to electionday irregularities and election results, is also among the report’s recommendations.

Additional recommendations relate to providing unrestricted access of citizen and international observers to the entire electoral process, including voting, counting and tabulation, and enhancing the transparency of the tabulation of results.

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The Head of the OSCE Mission to Skopje Nina Suomalainen attended an Iftar (fast-breaking) dinner on 20 June 2016 in Skopje, organized by the local NGO Woman Affirmation Association with the support of the Mission.

The event brought together women from different ethnic and religious backgrounds who sent a message of mutual respect, harmony, and understanding.

“Empowering women, providing equal opportunities for both women and men and integrating gender equality into policies and practices is one of our Mission’s main goals. By organizing this Iftar, you foster dialogue and respect among the different religious and ethnic communities and learn more about each other’s cultures and beliefs,” said Suomalainen in her address, wishing the Muslim community a blessed and joyful Ramadan.

The Woman Affirmation Association works on the affirmation, protection and development of the rights and position of women in society.

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The OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) issued a final report on 8 July 2016 on the postponed early parliamentary elections in the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, which were scheduled for 5 June 2016. The final report assesses whether the electoral process and activities conducted before the postponement of elections were in line with OSCE commitments, other international obligations and standards for democratic elections, and with national legislation.  

While recognizing that 2015 amendments to the Electoral Code attempted to address most of the prior OSCE/ODIHR recommendations, the report notes that late changes negatively affected electoral stakeholders’ understanding of new provisions and impacted their ability to fulfil their functions. In addition, a number of previous recommendations remain to be addressed and legal inconsistencies eliminated. The report recommends conducting a complete review of the Code after consultations between all political stakeholders and relevant civil society organizations.  

As one of the priority recommendations, the report recommends the State Election Commission and the Ministry of Internal Affairs continue the process of updating the voter register through a co-ordinated effort ahead of the next elections. In order to increase the citizens’ confidence in the accuracy of voter registration, it also recommends that the process is transparent and ensures political parties and civil society access for verification.  

Noting that some measures to prevent intimidation and pressure on citizens were taken by authorities, it however mentions that a climate of intimidation persisted, attributed to a fear of retribution existing in state companies and institutions. The report recommends that authorities actively encourage citizens to report any cases of pressure and intimidation and thoroughly investigate such instances. 

While a number of aspects for the media coverage of election campaigns have been detailed in the Electoral Code, a need for continued substantial reform was highlighted. The report suggests amending the legal framework to further clarify the requirements for balanced reporting during the pre-campaign period.

Additional recommendations in the report include deciding on election-related cases within timely deadlines and harmonizing the Electoral Code with the Constitution, which provides for public hearings. It also recommends periodic review of district boundaries by an independent body to ensure the equality of the vote.

Related Stories

• OSCE/ODIHR opens observation mission for early parliamentary elections in the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia
• OSCE/ODIHR observers to hold press conference in Skopje on Thursday
• Early Parliamentary Elections

The final report by the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) on Serbia’s 24 April 2016 early parliamentary elections recommends a comprehensive review of legislation to further improve election process.  

The report, while finding the elections were efficiently administered and held in a competitive environment, spells out key areas that would benefit from such a review, including unclear rules on candidate registration, inadequate regulation of campaign finance, deficiencies and loopholes in dispute resolution mechanisms, an absence of sanctions for some violations and the lack of provisions on election observation.

The report, published on 29 July 2016, notes that, while fundamental freedoms were respected and candidates were able to campaign freely, biased media coverage, undue advantage of incumbency and a blurring of the distinction between state and party activities hindered a level playing field for contestants. To this end, the report recommends specific campaign regulations, including the introduction of ceilings on campaign expenditures and preventing the misuse of administrative resources and the abuse of office.  

In noting the absence of an effective mechanism for monitoring media conduct during the campaign, the report recommends clarifying the competences of the media regulatory body in investigating and sanctioning breaches of legislation in a timely manner.

A review of the election appeals system to guarantee an effective and timely remedy for all complaints, and particularly in cases related to electionday irregularities and election results, is also among the report’s recommendations.

Additional recommendations relate to providing unrestricted access of citizen and international observers to the entire electoral process, including voting, counting and tabulation, and enhancing the transparency of the tabulation of results.

Related Stories

• OSCE/ODIHR final report on Serbia’s parliamentary elections notes respect for fundamental freedoms, recommends steps to further improve election process
• Parliamentary Elections
• International election observers in Serbia to hold press conference on Monday

Micron Technology, Inc. (MU): Citi Analyst Recommends Buy as Semiconductor Selloff Nears Completion, Market Recovery Expected in 2025  Yahoo Finance

Bumble surveyed 40,000 millennial and Gen Z users about dating. Here's what they said.

Los ocho mejores equipos nacionales se la juegan en Madrid Gaming Experience.

I'm looking for recommendations for picture books (think ages 3-6) that include (but do not have to be about) interracial friendships. I am NOT looking for mixed-race families, there are tons of those. It's fine if that's also present but it's not the specific thing I need.

">Max and Kate would be a perfect example of what I'm looking for.

Trump's pick for defense secretary, Pete Hegseth, is an Army veteran and conservative commentator who's been skeptical of US support for the NATO alliance and Ukraine.

Like most Lego games that have come before it, Lego Horizon Adventure is at once a single-player game, but oodles… Continue reading Lego Horizon Adventures co-op explained – how to play locally and online with friends

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The Border Management Authority has confirmed that it has temporarily suspended operations at the Lebombo port of entry due to ongoing post-election unrest in Mozambique on Wednesday.

ANC Mayor Bongani Hadebe's attempts to suspend Dannhauser municipal manager Mandla Sithole without following due process, and in the middle of the municipality's regulatory audit, has backfired spectacularly.

The City of Charlottetown is getting ready to electrify the transit system in the capital region, but it might be a while before routes are expanded.

Benefits-eligible employees have until Friday, Nov. 15, to login to Workday and elect their benefits for 2025.  

Jennifer Lopez is convinced that Ben Affleck is trying to mess with her head

Bonhomie was on display at an event in Darbhanga on Wednesday when Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar bent down to touch the feet of Narendra Modi, only to be stopped by the Prime Minister, who shook his hands instead.

Bonhomie was on display at an event in Darbhanga on Wednesday when Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar bent down to touch the feet of Narendra Modi, only to be stopped by the Prime Minister, who shook his hands instead.

Britney Spears first priority is reunion with her childrenBritney Spears’ recent reunion with son Jayden came as a shock to people close to her and the singer’s friends are reportedly feeling divided over her decision.The 42-year-old popstar, who had not seen her kids for over a year...

Katy Perry dishes on her plans for the next yearPopstar Katy Perry had some big secrets up her sleeve that she just shared with fans.The 40-year-old songstress took to Instagram and shared a reel announcing her Mexico tour next year.The video clip shows a montage of the Teenage Dream singer...

The coroner’s inquest into the deaths of five men at the Niagara Detention Centre ended with the jury making 66 recommendations aimed at preventing future deaths. Changes include staffing nurses all day and more closely monitoring patients who have overdosed.

Selling subscriptions to Prime Video with ads is more lucrative for Amazon.

The trailer will be shown in theaters starting November 14, attached to upcoming releases such as ‘Kanguva’ and ‘The Sabarmati Report’, giving audiences a preview ahead of the re-release.

23andMe is laying off 40 per cent of its workforce, or more than 200 employees, and discontinuing its therapeutics division as the struggling genetic testing company attempts to slash costs.

Manga about supernatural detective launched in September 2023

Series debuted in February 2023

Second volume ships on January 28

Afghanistan’s first delegation at United Nations climate talks since the Taliban’s return to power in 2021 has arrived in Baku, Azerbaijan

Afghanistan’s first delegation at United Nations climate talks since the Taliban’s return to power in 2021 has arrived in Baku, Azerbaijan

Polling was held in 15 districts of Jharkhand and the Kharsawan Assembly seat received the maximum polling of 77.32%, Ranchi, the State capital of Jharkhand witnessed the lowest polling with just 51.5%

Indian stock markets have shown notable volatility over the past two days, with sharp declines unsettling investors and signalling potential shifts in market sentiment