Which colleges offer lacrosse programs for potential recruits. How can athletes evaluate their options across different divisions. What factors should be considered when choosing a lacrosse program. Where can recruits find detailed information about team profiles and evaluations.
Understanding the Landscape of College Lacrosse Programs
The world of college lacrosse offers a diverse array of opportunities for aspiring athletes. From NCAA Division I powerhouses to Division III programs focused on academic-athletic balance, the options are extensive. Understanding this landscape is crucial for recruits navigating the commitment process.
Breaking Down the Divisions
College lacrosse is primarily divided into three NCAA divisions:
- Division I (D1): The highest level of competition, offering athletic scholarships
- Division II (D2): A mix of scholarship and non-scholarship programs
- Division III (D3): No athletic scholarships, but a strong focus on academics and athletics
Each division presents unique opportunities and challenges for student-athletes. D1 programs like Syracuse, Maryland, and Duke are renowned for their competitive nature and national exposure. D2 schools such as Limestone and Le Moyne offer a balance of high-level play and academic focus. D3 programs like Salisbury and Tufts provide excellent lacrosse experiences while prioritizing academic pursuits.
Navigating the Commitment Process
For lacrosse recruits, understanding the commitment process is essential. This journey involves research, communication with coaches, and careful consideration of various factors.
Key Steps in the Recruitment Journey
- Self-assessment of athletic ability and academic goals
- Researching potential schools and programs
- Creating a recruitment profile and highlight video
- Reaching out to coaches and attending showcases
- Evaluating offers and making campus visits
- Making an informed decision on commitment
Throughout this process, it’s crucial for athletes to maintain open communication with their families, high school coaches, and potential college programs.
Evaluating Lacrosse Programs: Beyond the Field
When considering lacrosse programs, recruits should look beyond just the team’s win-loss record. A holistic evaluation includes several key factors:
- Academic reputation and available majors
- Coaching staff philosophy and track record
- Team culture and player development
- Facilities and resources
- Geographic location and campus environment
- Potential for playing time and career growth
These factors contribute to the overall experience of a student-athlete and should be carefully weighed during the decision-making process.
Exploring Division I Lacrosse Opportunities
Division I lacrosse represents the pinnacle of collegiate competition. Programs in this division often feature top-tier facilities, extensive media coverage, and the highest level of play.
Notable D1 Lacrosse Conferences
- Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC)
- Big Ten Conference
- Ivy League
- Patriot League
- Big East Conference
These conferences host some of the most competitive programs in the country, including perennial powerhouses like Johns Hopkins, Virginia, and North Carolina. Recruits considering D1 programs should be prepared for rigorous athletic commitments alongside their academic pursuits.
Division II Lacrosse: Balancing Academics and Athletics
Division II lacrosse offers a unique blend of competitive play and academic focus. Many D2 programs provide athletic scholarships, though typically not at the same level as D1 schools.
Standout D2 Lacrosse Programs
- Limestone University
- Le Moyne College
- Mercyhurst University
- Adelphi University
- Tampa University
These programs have established themselves as perennial contenders in D2 lacrosse, offering high-quality coaching and competitive schedules. For many athletes, D2 provides an ideal balance between athletic aspirations and academic goals.
Division III Lacrosse: Emphasizing the Student-Athlete Experience
Division III lacrosse programs focus on providing a well-rounded college experience, where athletics complement rather than dominate academic pursuits. While D3 schools cannot offer athletic scholarships, many provide excellent financial aid packages based on academic merit and need.
Top D3 Lacrosse Programs
- Salisbury University
- Tufts University
- Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT)
- Gettysburg College
- Wesleyan University
These programs consistently compete at the highest level of D3 lacrosse, offering outstanding coaching, facilities, and competitive schedules. For student-athletes prioritizing academics while still seeking high-level lacrosse opportunities, D3 can be an excellent choice.
Utilizing Recruit Profiles and Evaluations
Comprehensive recruit profiles and evaluations are invaluable tools for both athletes and college programs. These resources provide a standardized way to showcase skills, academic achievements, and potential fit within a program.
Key Components of a Strong Recruit Profile
- Academic information (GPA, test scores, intended major)
- Athletic statistics and achievements
- Highlight video showcasing skills and gameplay
- Personal statement or essay
- References from coaches and teachers
Evaluations from neutral sources, such as recruiting services or showcase events, can provide additional credibility to a recruit’s profile. These assessments offer insights into an athlete’s strengths, areas for improvement, and potential fit at various collegiate levels.
Navigating the Commitment Timeline
Understanding the recruitment and commitment timeline is crucial for lacrosse players. The process has become increasingly accelerated in recent years, with many athletes committing to programs early in their high school careers.
Key Dates and Periods in Lacrosse Recruitment
- September 1 of Junior Year: Official start of recruitment communication for most D1 programs
- Early Signing Period (November): First opportunity for seniors to sign National Letters of Intent
- Regular Signing Period (April-August): Extended signing period for incoming freshmen
It’s important to note that D3 schools follow a different timeline, as they do not use National Letters of Intent. Recruits should stay informed about specific rules and timelines for each division they’re considering.
Despite the trend towards early commitments, many coaches and educators advocate for a more measured approach. Taking time to fully evaluate options and personal development can lead to better long-term decisions for student-athletes.
Leveraging Technology in the Recruitment Process
In today’s digital age, technology plays a crucial role in lacrosse recruitment. From online profiles to video sharing platforms, athletes have more tools than ever to connect with college programs.
Essential Tech Tools for Lacrosse Recruits
- Recruitment websites and databases
- Video editing software for highlight reels
- Social media platforms for networking and exposure
- Email and communication tools for contacting coaches
- Virtual campus tour platforms
These technological resources allow recruits to cast a wider net in their college search and provide coaches with easier access to potential talent. However, it’s important to use these tools responsibly and maintain a positive online presence throughout the recruitment process.
The Role of Academics in Lacrosse Recruitment
While athletic ability is crucial, academics play a significant role in the lacrosse recruitment process. Strong academic performance not only opens doors to more prestigious programs but also increases opportunities for financial aid and scholarships.
Academic Considerations for Lacrosse Recruits
- Maintaining a competitive GPA
- Preparing for and taking standardized tests (SAT/ACT)
- Enrolling in challenging courses that demonstrate academic rigor
- Researching academic programs and majors at potential schools
- Understanding NCAA eligibility requirements
Many top lacrosse programs, particularly in the Ivy League and at academically rigorous D3 schools, place a premium on scholarly achievements. For these institutions, a recruit’s academic profile can be just as important as their athletic abilities.
Preparing for College Lacrosse: Skills and Development
As recruits navigate the commitment process, it’s crucial to continue developing both on and off the field. College lacrosse demands a higher level of skill, athleticism, and game IQ than most high school programs.
Key Areas for Lacrosse Skill Development
- Fundamental stick skills (passing, catching, shooting)
- Positional expertise and versatility
- Physical conditioning and strength training
- Lacrosse IQ and understanding of advanced strategies
- Leadership and teamwork skills
Many recruits benefit from participating in offseason training programs, attending specialized camps, and seeking mentorship from experienced players or coaches. This dedication to improvement not only enhances a player’s recruitment prospects but also prepares them for the challenges of college lacrosse.
Financial Considerations in Lacrosse Recruitment
Understanding the financial aspects of college lacrosse is crucial for recruits and their families. While the sport can provide valuable opportunities, it’s important to have a realistic view of the costs and potential financial aid available.
Types of Financial Assistance for Lacrosse Players
- Athletic scholarships (primarily D1 and D2)
- Academic scholarships
- Need-based financial aid
- Grants and work-study programs
It’s important to note that full athletic scholarships are rare in lacrosse, with many players receiving partial scholarships or a combination of athletic and academic aid. D3 schools, while unable to offer athletic scholarships, often provide competitive financial aid packages based on academic merit and financial need.
Recruits should have open discussions with their families about college costs and explore all available financial aid options. This may include considering a range of programs across different divisions to find the best balance of athletic opportunity and financial feasibility.
The Importance of Campus Visits in the Decision-Making Process
While recruit profiles and online research are valuable, there’s no substitute for experiencing a college campus firsthand. Campus visits play a crucial role in helping athletes determine their best fit both athletically and academically.
Key Aspects to Evaluate During Campus Visits
- Team culture and player interactions
- Coaching style and philosophy
- Athletic facilities and resources
- Academic support for student-athletes
- Overall campus atmosphere and student life
Many programs offer official visits for top recruits, which can include meetings with coaches, current players, and academic advisors. Even if an official visit isn’t possible, unofficial visits can provide valuable insights into a school’s environment and culture.
Recruits should prepare questions in advance and take notes during their visits. This information will be invaluable when comparing options and making a final decision on where to commit.
Building Relationships with College Coaches
Developing positive relationships with college coaches is a crucial aspect of the recruitment process. These interactions can provide insights into a program’s culture and help coaches assess a recruit’s potential fit within their team.
Effective Communication Strategies with Coaches
- Initiate contact through email or recruitment questionnaires
- Respond promptly and professionally to all communications
- Provide updates on academic and athletic achievements
- Ask thoughtful questions about the program and school
- Be honest about interest levels and other programs being considered
It’s important for recruits to remember that coaches are evaluating not just athletic ability, but also character, communication skills, and potential team fit. Demonstrating maturity and genuine interest in a program can significantly impact a coach’s recruitment decisions.
The Role of Club and Travel Teams in Recruitment
Participation in club and travel lacrosse teams has become increasingly important in the recruitment landscape. These teams often provide exposure to high-level competition and recruitment opportunities that may not be available through high school programs alone.
Benefits of Club and Travel Team Participation
- Exposure to college coaches at tournaments and showcases
- Opportunity to compete against top talent from various regions
- Extended playing season beyond the high school schedule
- Access to experienced coaches and advanced training methods
- Networking opportunities with other aspiring college players
While club lacrosse can be a valuable asset in the recruitment process, it’s important to balance these commitments with high school team responsibilities, academics, and personal development. Recruits should choose programs that align with their goals and provide genuine opportunities for growth and exposure.
Navigating the Transfer Portal: A Growing Trend in College Lacrosse
The NCAA Transfer Portal has become an increasingly significant factor in college lacrosse recruitment. This system allows current college athletes to explore opportunities at other institutions, creating a dynamic landscape for both players and programs.
Key Considerations for Potential Transfers
- Understanding transfer eligibility rules and timelines
- Evaluating academic transfer credits and degree progress
- Assessing potential playing time at new programs
- Considering the impact on remaining eligibility
- Navigating relationships with current and potential coaches
For high school recruits, the transfer portal’s influence means that roster spots and scholarship availability can change quickly. It’s important to stay informed about potential openings and be prepared to adapt to a fluid recruitment landscape.
Coaches and programs are also adjusting their strategies to balance incoming recruits with potential transfer additions. This evolving dynamic adds another layer of complexity to the college lacrosse recruitment process.
Developing a Personal Brand as a Lacrosse Recruit
In today’s recruitment landscape, developing a personal brand can help lacrosse players stand out to college coaches and programs. This involves crafting a consistent and positive image across various platforms and interactions.
Elements of a Strong Personal Brand for Recruits
- A compelling player profile highlighting unique strengths and achievements
- A well-curated social media presence showcasing character and lacrosse involvement
- Consistent demonstration of leadership and sportsmanship on and off the field
- Engagement in community service or lacrosse development initiatives
- Clear communication of personal goals and values
By thoughtfully developing their personal brand, recruits can create a memorable impression on coaches and differentiate themselves in a competitive recruitment environment. This approach also prepares athletes for the increased visibility and responsibility that comes with being a college lacrosse player.
As the college lacrosse landscape continues to evolve, staying informed and adaptable is key for recruits. By leveraging comprehensive profiles, thorough evaluations, and a strategic approach to the recruitment process, aspiring college lacrosse players can navigate this complex journey with confidence and increase their chances of finding the right collegiate fit.
Comprehensive Lacrosse Recruit Profiles and Evaluations | Recruiting
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Vermont, New Hampshire rosters set for the return of senior lacrosse game
Top graduated seniors from Vermont and New Hampshire will resume the states’ annual lacrosse rivalry with the 28th Byrne Cup games on Saturday.
The game was canceled in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Twin State doubleheader, sponsored by the Hanover (N.H.) Lions, is slated to start with the girls game at noon at Hanover High School. The boys game follows at 3. Admission is free for both games but donations are encouraged.
In 2019, the Vermont boys (21-5) and the New Hampshire girls (23-8) won their matchups.
According to event director William Johnson, there are no restrictions on the number of spectators for the event. However, spectators will be asked to wear masks. To make an online donation, visit twinstateallstars.com.
The doubleheader will be streamed at dppgnetwork.com/watch-dppg.
The rosters (subject to change):
VERMONT GIRLS
BFA-St. Albans: Margot Collins, defense. Burr and Burton: Lola Herzog, goalie. Brattleboro: Brianna Paul, attack. Champlain Valley: Petra Kapsalis, midfield. Green Mountain Valley: Molly Quinlan, goalie; Erika Weibe, midfield.
Hartford: Zoe Pfeiffer, attack; Ryelee Potwin, defense. Lamoille: Madeline Benoit, defense; Savannah Aiken. Middlebury: Lydia Deppman, goalie; Camryn Jaring, defense; Kaitlyn McNamara, midfield/defense. Mount Mansfield: Layla Drinkwater. Caellie Foley, midfield; Lily Poor, midfield. Rutland: Kendra Sabotka, attak/midfield; Jenna Sunderland, defense. St. Johnsbury: Polly Currier, attack. South Burlington: Lindsay Booth, attack. Vergennes: Hannah Kelly, midfield; Savanah Scrodin, defense; Sydney Weber, attack.
Coach: Tom Forster, St. Johnsbury.
More: Green Mountain Valley seizes D-II girls lacrosse crown
VERMONT BOYS
Burr and Burton: Justin Fusco, defense; Teddy Mirenda, attack. Champlain Valley: Seth Boffa, midfield; Shane Gorman, attack; Cam Saia, defense; Alex Leonard, attack.
Colchester: Mason Coburn, attack; Bodey Towle, defense. Essex: Sam Bowen attack; Will Couture, faceoff; Chris Davis, attack. Hartford: Ethan Schaal, defense. Mount Abraham: Quinn Cook, defense; Griffin Paradee, midfield. Mount Mansfield: Owen Trudeau, LSM. Montpelier: Quinn Mills, midfield. Middlebury: Mason Kaufmann, midfield; Jack Rizzo, goalie. Rice: Jackson Harris, attack. South Burlington: Will Bruns, faceoff. Woodstock: Charles Greene, LSM; Andrew Gubbins, midfield; Mason Harkins, defense; Louis Mills, defense; Riley Shepherd, midfield; David Willis, attack. Rutland: Joe Anderson, midfield.
Alternates: Will Balkan, Aaron Murakami, South Burlington; Dereck Sloan, BFA-Fairfax; Dante Pellegrino, Rice; Gavin Thompson, Sawyer Simmons, Harwood; Aidan Trus, Champlain Valley; Aiden Blouin, Spaulding.
Coach: Ryan Fitzpatrick, Colchester.
More: D-I boys lacrosse championship: CVU roars to eighth straight D-I title
More: D-II boys lacrosse championship: Harwood locks up No. 1 Rice to pull off upset
NEW HAMPSHIRE GIRLS
Bishop Guertin: Lyndsay Hult, midfield. Bow: Amelia Coe, defense; Meaghan Danahy, goalie. Derryfield: Lucy Licata, midfield; Lauren MacLean, defense. Goffstown: Gracie Pierce, attack. Hollis-Brookline: Abbey Magnuszewski, midfield. Lebanon: Lena Nowell, goalie. Londonderry: Katie McCudden, defense. Merrimack Valley: Lily Furtkamp, defense. Pelham: Jordyn Galgay, attack; Sarah Giniewicz, defense. Plymouth: Anna Aprilliano, attack Nashua North: Kiley O’Brien, midfield. Timberlane: Catherine Bowman, midfield.
St. Thomas Aquinas: Brooke Chandler, attack; Kylie Youngclaus, midfield. Souhegan: Abby Hawkes, attack. Winnacunnett: Anna Carlino, defense; Serena Hollmorgen, attack.
Exeter: Sydney Taylor, attack.
Coach: Kari Crowe, Plymouth.
NEW HAMPSHIRE BOYS
Bedford: Max Manniello, midfield. Bishop Guertin: Aidan Ahern, defense; Dawson Clark, attack; Matt Cranney, defense; Chris Heitmiller, midfield; Jon Kirkorian, attack; Nick McGovern, midfield; John Sullivan, LSM. Derryfield: Ryan Caparrelli, goalie; Jaxon Snyder, goalie. Exeter: Spencer Clark, midfield; Zach Gilvar, defense; Connor Holly, midfield; Davis Nelson, defense. Londonderry: Robbie Derhak, defense; Zac Fawcett, midfield; Hunter Smith, attack. Nashua South: Drew Fleury, attack. Oyster River: Hayden Marshall, attack. Pinkerton: Hunter Drouin, attack; Declan Turner, defense.
Souhegan: Riley Lawhorn, midfield. Timberlane: Billy Savage, defense.
Coaches: Gerry Holly, Exeter; Brian Miller, Merrimack.
Become a member of the Vermont Varsity Insider Facebook group at https://bit.ly/2MGSfvX.
Contact Alex Abrami at [email protected]. Follow him on Twitter: @aabrami5.
I visited the newly designed private terminal at LAX and saw why wealthy travelers are spending thousands for a membership
Visiting PS, the private terminal at Los Angeles International Airport. Thomas Pallini/Insider
PS, the private terminal at LAX, has been a haven for wealthy travelers looking to avoid the traveling public.
As a result, memberships have been surging as the wealthy want a more private experience.
I visited a newly redesigned suite and saw first-hand what they’re paying thousands of dollars for.
See more stories on Insider’s business page.
PS opened in 2017 as the Private Suite, a one-of-a-kind private terminal at one of the country’s busiest airports. Like most travel and hospitality companies, business was down at the pandemic’s peak in 2020 as would-be travelers stayed at home amid lockdowns.
Visiting PS, the private terminal at Los Angeles International Airport. Thomas Pallini/Insider
But just over one full year since lockdowns began, PS is reporting a resurgence in new memberships from flyers getting ready to travel.
PS at Los Angeles International Airport. PS at LAX
Amina Belouizdad, PS’ co-chief executive officer, told Insider that memberships have surged and the company has signed on more new members than it had before the pandemic. Annual membership costs $4,500 but the wealthy are scooping them up, even if they don’t have upcoming travel planned.
PS at Los Angeles International Airport. PS at LAX
“I think people want to have peace of mind that they have access to this,” Belouizdad said.
“It’s a signal of customer sentiment, is what it is. People are saying, ‘I’m expecting to travel over the next year, I want to make sure me and my family can do it safely.'”
PS at Los Angeles International Airport. PS at LAX
And with that in mind, PS is embarking on a redesign for its Los Angeles flagship terminal to welcome back travelers with a new look. I stopped by PS on a recent layover in Los Angeles, here’s what it was like.
Flying on Alaska Airlines during the pandemic Thomas Pallini/Insider
The major appeal of PS is avoiding the commercial terminal at LAX entirely, and that’s only increased during the pandemic. Memberships are up as the wealthy want guaranteed access, even if they don’t have plans to fly in the near future.
Visiting PS, the private terminal at Los Angeles International Airport. Thomas Pallini/Insider
For those arriving at LAX by plane, the experience starts with a chauffeured car. PS representatives wait in the jetway to meet guests as soon as they step off of their flights, and promptly escort them to an awaiting vehicle below.
Story continues
Visiting PS, the private terminal at Los Angeles International Airport. Thomas Pallini/Insider
PS has a fleet of vehicles available to use depending on group size but the flagship is the BMW 750i. Ideal for one to two passengers, the classic all-white sedan features an executive configuration for passengers in the back.
Visiting PS, the private terminal at Los Angeles International Airport. Thomas Pallini/Insider
The car is loaded with luxurious amenities including leather seats with recline functionality to individual climate control for passengers in the back.
Visiting PS, the private terminal at Los Angeles International Airport. Thomas Pallini/Insider
There are even seat-back entertainment screens from which the SiriusXM radio can be controlled.
Visiting PS, the private terminal at Los Angeles International Airport. Thomas Pallini/Insider
Then, it’s around a 10 to 15-minute drive to PS, located on the south side of the airport.
As two runways separate the facility from the commercial terminals, drivers have to go all the way around the airport while obeying the airport’s modest speed limit
Visiting PS, the private terminal at Los Angeles International Airport. Thomas Pallini/Insider
As an aviation enthusiast, however, I wish the drive lasted longer as we were right alongside moving aircraft for most of the drive.
Visiting PS, the private terminal at Los Angeles International Airport. Thomas Pallini/Insider
Behemoth jets like the Boeing 747 were just outside the window, departing and landing just feet from the car.
Visiting PS, the private terminal at Los Angeles International Airport. Thomas Pallini/Insider
It was like getting a private tour of the airport all while traveling at the height of luxury.
Visiting PS, the private terminal at Los Angeles International Airport. Thomas Pallini/Insider
Upon arrival at PS, it’s just a short walk down a private hallway into the facility.
Everything from reservations to payment is done online so there’s no checking in or waiting in line. I didn’t even see another guest for the entirety of my stay.
Visiting PS, the private terminal at Los Angeles International Airport. Thomas Pallini/Insider
There are 13 suites in total at PS. Not all have received the redesign but that project is expected to be completed within the next six months.
Visiting PS, the private terminal at Los Angeles International Airport. Thomas Pallini/Insider
I walked into the suite and felt as if I’d just checked into a luxury hotel.
Visiting PS, the private terminal at Los Angeles International Airport. Thomas Pallini/Insider
It was incredibly modern and above any private lounge that I’ve seen at an airport. Members pay $3,250 per visit while non-members pay $4,350 per visit for up to four travelers.
Visiting PS, the private terminal at Los Angeles International Airport. Thomas Pallini/Insider
The suites aren’t as large as a hotel suite but are comparable in size to a New York City studio apartment and include spacious living areas, wet bars, fully-stocked mini-fridges, and private bathrooms, among other features.
Visiting PS, the private terminal at Los Angeles International Airport. Thomas Pallini/Insider
PS takes a personal touch when dealing with guests. A handwritten note is left for guests welcoming them to the facility and detailing what they can expect from the stay.
Visiting PS, the private terminal at Los Angeles International Airport. Thomas Pallini/Insider
A massive high-definition television with DirecTV serves as the main entertainment for the suite, helping pass the time until a flight.
Visiting PS, the private terminal at Los Angeles International Airport. Thomas Pallini/Insider
Guests can also make use of the in-suite phone and stationary. PS staff use the phone to communicate with guests and keep them informed on their departure information.
Visiting PS, the private terminal at Los Angeles International Airport. Thomas Pallini/Insider
This quasi-kitchen and wet bar are where all of the suite’s food and beverage items can be found.
Visiting PS, the private terminal at Los Angeles International Airport. Thomas Pallini/Insider
A selection of high-end snacks, liquors, and wines were all on offer and available free of charge to guests.
Visiting PS, the private terminal at Los Angeles International Airport. Thomas Pallini/Insider
Snacks included pistachios, almonds, keto-friendly cereal, and water crackers, to name just a few.
Visiting PS, the private terminal at Los Angeles International Airport. Thomas Pallini/Insider
Guests are also encouraged to take snacks with them on the plane and given this blue box to do so.
Visiting PS, the private terminal at Los Angeles International Airport. Thomas Pallini/Insider
The fridge contained chilled soft drinks, waters, milk, alcoholic beverages, and even some more snacks. A guest here will truly want for nothing as everything is at their fingertips.
Visiting PS, the private terminal at Los Angeles International Airport. Thomas Pallini/Insider
Those making cocktails can use the bar station and the pre-filled bucket of ice.
Visiting PS, the private terminal at Los Angeles International Airport. Thomas Pallini/Insider
And there was no shortage of glasses, cups, and dishes to use when dining.
Visiting PS, the private terminal at Los Angeles International Airport. Thomas Pallini/Insider
Complimentary travel accessories were also scattered across the suite including noise-isolating headphones, headphone splitters, and charging cables.
Visiting PS, the private terminal at Los Angeles International Airport. Thomas Pallini/Insider
The luxury continued into the restroom complete with marble floors and vanities, as well as gold-plated sink faucets.
Visiting PS, the private terminal at Los Angeles International Airport. Thomas Pallini/Insider
And the complimentary amenities kept on coming with everything a traveler would need to freshen up before a flight.
Visiting PS, the private terminal at Los Angeles International Airport. Thomas Pallini/Insider
There was even a selection of over-the-counter medications on offer if a traveler is feeling unwell or just wants a dose of Vitamin C to boost the immune system while traveling.
Visiting PS, the private terminal at Los Angeles International Airport. Thomas Pallini/Insider
The suite design is the result of a partnership with Cliff Fong, a renowned design consultant, and it really felt like home instead of a transient space.
Visiting PS, the private terminal at Los Angeles International Airport. Thomas Pallini/Insider
“Our vision was always like, let’s create a space that feels residential, that feels like their home, that doesn’t feel like the airport, that doesn’t feel like a commercial space, that feels very familiar and collected,” Belouizdad said.
Visiting PS, the private terminal at Los Angeles International Airport. Thomas Pallini/Insider
The suite window overlooked the airfield, as well as the PS fleet of luxury vehicles. The firm also offers a new service, called PS Direct, where flyers can be taken straight from their domestic flights to their final destination and avoid both the commercial terminal and the PS facility altogether.
Visiting PS, the private terminal at Los Angeles International Airport. Thomas Pallini/Insider
Directly adjacent to the suite is an outdoor patio with benches and chairs to enjoy a bit of the outdoors before heading off on a plane for however many hours.
Visiting PS, the private terminal at Los Angeles International Airport. Thomas Pallini/Insider
Suite 13 is often the most sought after since it includes this private outdoor space, accessible via a sliding door from the living room.
Visiting PS, the private terminal at Los Angeles International Airport. Thomas Pallini/Insider
Meals are included in the stay and everything comes pre-packaged for sanitary reasons.
Visiting PS, the private terminal at Los Angeles International Airport. Thomas Pallini/Insider
The current menu is largely focused on Los Angeles-inspired meals, mainly salads and sandwiches, for lunch and dinner.
Visiting PS, the private terminal at Los Angeles International Airport.
Thomas Pallini/Insider
I sampled the Peruvian steak sandwich and the chicken and prosciutto salad. Both were bursting with flavor and better than most of what’s available even in LAX’s premium lounges.
Visiting PS, the private terminal at Los Angeles International Airport. Thomas Pallini/Insider
It really came as no surprise that the wealthy are buying up access to the facility since staying here was so much more enjoyable than any airport experience I’ve had in years.
Visiting PS, the private terminal at Los Angeles International Airport. Thomas Pallini/Insider
For me, I found the true luxury of the suite wasn’t the complimentary goodies that were offered but that it was a quiet place to relax during a long layover nestled into an already long day of travel. Suites also feature a sleep kit with eyeshades and earplugs.
Visiting PS, the private terminal at Los Angeles International Airport. Thomas Pallini/Insider
When it was time to leave, PS staff came to the suite and escorted me to the in-house Transportation and Security Administration checkpoint.
There’s no line and TSA PreCheck was available.
Visiting PS, the private terminal at Los Angeles International Airport. Thomas Pallini/Insider
Then, it was just a short drive back to the commercial terminals and my awaiting JetBlue Airways flight.
Visiting PS, the private terminal at Los Angeles International Airport. Thomas Pallini/Insider
Read the original article on Business Insider
Julia Lisella – Lacrosse – University of Colorado Athletics
2018 CU Athlete of the Week (March 6, March 21)
2018 Pac-12 Defensive Player of the Week (March 12)
2018 Inside Lacrosse Midseason DI Media All-America First Team
2018 Inside Lacrosse DI Media All-America First Team
2018 Inside Lacrosse Goalkeeper of the Year
2018 Tewaaraton Watch List
2018 Tewaaraton Top 25 List
2018 Pac-12 All-Academic Honorable Mention
2018 Pac-12 All-Tournament Team
2018 All-Pac-12 First Team
2018 IWLCA All-West/Midwest Region First Team
2018 IWLCA All-America First Team
2018 IWLCA Goalkeeper of the Year
2019 Inside Lacrosse Preseason All-American
2019 Tewaaraton Watch List
2019 All-Pac-12 Second Team
2019 Pac-12 All-Tournament Team
2019 Pac-12 All-Academic Honorable Mention
2020 Pac-12 Defensive Player of the Week (Feb.
10)
SENIOR (2020): Lisella started in all five games for the Buffs, playing in 282:46 of 300:00 minutes. Her 48.4 save percentage ranked second in the Pac-12 and was 24th in the NCAA, while her 10.40 goals-against average was 29th in the NCAA (also second in the conference). Lisella also averaged 9.20 saves per game (second in the Pac-12) and 2.80 ground balls per game (fourth in the Pac-12). She recorded 10 or more saves in the first three contests of the season, which included a season-best 13 against Florida (2/8) in the season opener. The only game she did not make 10 or more saves was against Oregon and that was because CU’s defense held the Ducks to just seven shots on goal.
JUNIOR (2019): Lisella returned to net for the second straight year and recorded 10 wins. She recorded a .470 save percentage, which was 28th in the NCAA, and a 10.19 goals-against average, which was 19th nationally and second in the Pac-12.
Lisella also recorded 34 ground balls (third on the team) and four caused turnovers. Throughout the season, she faced 480 shots in 1,080:55 minutes. In the NCAA First Round game against No. 18 Dartmouth (5/10), she recorded 15 saves and helped the Buffs to a 16-13 win. In nine of the 18 games played, she made at least 10 saves. Another big game was CU’s first win at McAlister Field (in L.A.) against No. 14 USC. Lisella made 11 saves while allowing eight goals in the Buffs 9-8 victory. She was named to the All-Pac-12 Second Team, Pac-12 All-Tournament Team and the Pac-12 All-Academic honorable mention squad.
REDSHIRT SOPHOMORE (2018): After waiting her turn for two seasons, Lisella finally earned the starting goalkeeper position for the Buffs and by the end of the season, was named the IWLCA Goalkeeper of the Year for her outstanding season. She was also named to the IWCLA All-America First Team and was a member of the all-region team. Additionally, Lisella was an All-Pac-12 First Team and Pac-12 All-Tournament team honoree and was on the Tewaaraton Top 25 List.
Inside Lacrosse recognized her as a midseason All-American and went on to place her on the DI Media All-America First Team. IL also named her its Goalkeeper of the Year. She led the Pac-12 and was 10th in the NCAA with a 50.3 save percentage and was second in the Pac-12, seventh in the NCAA, with 9.34 goals allowed. She faced 456 shots during the season; 163 found the back of the net, while she stopped 165 en route to recording a 13-4 record as a starter. She made her first appearance of the season against No. 11 Northwestern, coming in to start the second half. She allowed seven goals on 14 shots and made three saves in addition to recording three ground balls and one caused turnover. As the season went on, Lisella improved and shined in net. CU hosted No. 19 Virginia Tech on March 4 and defeated the Hokies 18-3. Lisella made 11 saves in the game and allowed just three goals, which was the fewest goals CU has allowed against a ranked team. In 17 games, she allowed 10 or fewer goals nine times and in four of those contests, she let in less than five goals.
In the game against Arizona State (March 18), she set a personal best with just two goals allowed. Lisella saw her share of shots during the season. In the Pac-12 season opener, she faced 43 shots against No. 18 Stanford. In the first half, she allowed the Cardinal to score 12 goals but came back in the second half to hold them to just four. CU ended up coming back from a 6-12 score at halftime, to defeat SU 18-16, thanks in part to the strong defense. Lisella had a then-career-high 16 saves in the win and when coupled with the 11 saves in the following match-up against California (March 11), she was named the Pac-12 Defensive Player of the Week. Lisella recorded 10 or more saves in eight games, which included a career-best 17 against Southern California (March 16), which is tied for the fourth-most in CU history.
SOPHOMORE (2017): Redshirted sophomore year.
FRESHMAN (2016): Lisella played in two games as a freshman and served as the team’s backup goalkeeper throughout the season.
She did not allow a goal and had two saves in 36:19 of action, facing three shots. She stopped one shot in just over six minutes of action in a 19-4 win over Marist on March 21. She played the entire second half of a 23-0 win over Saint Mary’s (Calif.) on April 15 and made one save to preserve the shutout.
HIGH SCHOOL: Lisella earned four letters in lacrosse playing goalie at Columbine High School in Littleton, Colo. Her junior year she was the top-ranked goalie in the state and 12th in the nation, and in 2015, she and her team won the league championship. In her final season, she was named Jeffco League MVP, earned All-Colorado honors and was named an All-American honorable mention. In addition to lacrosse, Lisella played softball and basketball.
IN THE CLASSROOM: Lisella is majoring in speech, language and hearing sciences while minoring in education.
PERSONAL: Julia Rae Lisella was born in Denver, Colo.
on December 12, 1996. Lisella has coached lacrosse during summer breaks and has done modeling for the Donna Baldwin Agency. Her favorite foods are steak and potatoes and her favorite movie is Friday Night Lights. Her favorite football team is the Denver Broncos and her older brother was an offensive lineman on the CU football team, John Lisella Jr. After graduation, Lisella would like to become a physical therapist.
Insider’s Guide for Layovers at LAX Airport
Los Angeles is one of the most interesting cities on Earth. It has a great climate, great beaches, and stunning scenery. It’s also home to fascinating industries like movies, television, and music recording. If you’re in Los Angeles for a day or a lifetime, it’s easy to find something interesting to do. But what if you’re stuck in the airport? Never fear. There is lots to do inside the LAX airport, and it’s centrally located in Los Angeles. That puts it within a short distance of all kinds of attractions and amenities.
Depending on the length of your layover at LAX, turning a delay into a vacation is as easy as renting a car and poking around the area.
If you find yourself with some time to kill at LAX, or you’re planning ahead for a substantial layover, here’s a handy guide to what to go and what to do:
What’s LAX Like?
Los Angeles is a big, sprawling city. It’s only natural that it would have a big, spread-out airport. LAX is certainly that. Not only is LAX big, it’s also not really a single airport. It has eight different numbered terminals, plus the main terminal, and they’re not all connected together. The level of amenities varies a great deal between terminals. This disconnection is an artifact of the way LAX has evolved over the years. In the past, it was no big deal to walk out of one terminal and catch another flight at another terminal, or visit restaurants or shops.
TSA security makes that difficult now. In order to exit some terminals and enter others, you’ll have to submit to security procedures all over again./cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/56774231/lax_sunset.0.jpg)
That can make it tough to plan excursions between terminals while keeping track of time. The amount of time spent in security lines can vary a great deal.
The good news is that LAX understands that passengers need to be able to circulate freely after they’ve cleared security, and are working feverishly to connect the terminals on the “airside.” The largest terminal, the Tom Bradley International Terminal, is where most international passengers end up during layovers. There’s a lot of amenities inside the TBIT, so it’s possible to amuse yourself for a few hours or a long day. Terminals 4 through 8 are now connected airside, so you can move freely between them to find things to do. If you’re in any of the other terminals, you’ll probably need to go through security additional times if you want something substantial to eat, something interesting to occupy your time, or want to go shopping.
Between Terminals
Whichever terminal you end up in, you’ll probably have to plan ahead to amuse yourself, and you’ll have to be ready to walk long distances to visit other terminals.
LAX has a free Airline Connections shuttle that stops in front of every terminal. If you’d rather walk, be aware that the distance between any two terminals can range up to a mile. It’s smart to check the maps of the airport to see how far you have to walk before setting out.
What To Do With Your Luggage
On-site luggage storage can be a problem at LAX. There are companies that offer curbside pickup, storage, and retrieval, but a regular traveler’s luggage might cost $100 for a single day. Yikes.
If your layover in Los Angeles is at least a day, there are several ways to ditch your luggage without emptying your wallet.
Hotels
If you’re staying at a nearby hotel, their day rates might might be competitive with luggage service, and you can take a shower and rest as well as store your luggage. Many local hotels have shuttle services that save steps and money. The Hyatt Regency, the Courtyard Los Angeles, and the Sheraton Gateway are all located within a 2-minute shuttle ride of the main terminal.
For a lengthy layover, renting a car and traveling a few more miles will save you a lot of money. There are hundreds of hotels and motels in the immediate area at every price level. You can search for hotels near LAX on TripAdvisor to compare prices and service levels.
Early Check-In
If your layover is simply to wait for a connecting flight, you may be able to check your bags in early. There’s a limit to how far in advance you can check in, but it might be enough time to allow you to enjoy a meal or some shopping without dragging your bags around with you. You can find out more about early check in offers here.
Renting a Car
If you’re staying for a few days, renting a car and locking your luggage in the trunk is a great way to keep dibs on it without lugging it around. There are many car rental agencies inside the terminals. Renting a car from a nearby agency that picks up and drops off at the terminal will save you money, though.
Shopping Inside LAX
The Great Hall of the Tom Bradley terminal has a fantastic shopping mall in it.
It’s more like an inside shopping street than a run-of-the-mill airline mall. There’s lots of duty free offerings, and the retail boutiques include some really high-end names. like Bvlgari, Hugo Boss, Hermes, Gucci, Burberry, and others. Most of the other terminals have at least one or two interesting shops, but for the most part, you’ll have to settle for the usual newsstand shopping experience. The company that operates LAX has a list of shopping outlets here.
Dining Inside LAX
Los Angeles has a fantastic foodie culture. LAX features a growing number of first-rate eateries, plus more economical choices for travelers on a budget. The Tom Bradley terminal has upscale dining to go with its fancy shopping selection. Terminals 4 through 8 are now connected on the airside, and between them they have a great selection of food choices for leisurely dining or a quick bite. Terminals 4 and 5 have more affordable, but still adventurous choices. Eater Los Angeles has a current list of eateries at LAX here.
Airport Lounges
If traveling by air is getting the better of you, an airport lounge can turn a layover into a mini-vacation. There are many airport lounges at LAX. Your preferred airline or credit card provider might entitle you to free admission to an airport lounge. Many of the lounges will also let you purchase admission for a single day if you don’t qualify as a frequent flier. Almost every terminal has at least one lounge, and many have several. There’s a great rundown of LAX airport lounges on LoungeBuddy.
The amenities at the lounges at LAX vary a bit. One thin you won’t find is sleeping facilities. It’s fairly hard to catch a nap at LAX. The regular concourses are loud, and the airport has constant construction noise to deal with.
If an airport lounge isn’t enough to chill you out, LAX also has a few spas onsite. There’s a big one in the Tom Bradley terminal, and smaller locations scattered around where you can get a quick massage.
Day Trips
If you have a full day to kill, there’s no reason to spend all your time inside the airport.
Public transportation in Los Angeles isn’t great, but renting a car at LAX is easy and economical.
Beaches
There are many beaches located only a short drive from LAX, and most beaches in the LA area have nearby boardwalks and shopping strands to make a side trip enjoyable.
Golf
The Westchester Golf Course is located just north of LAX. It’s a public, 18-hole course that’s fairly affordable for an urban setting. They’re used to serving LAX customers, and have a good supply of clubs for rent, including premium clubs.
Local Tours
If you’ve got at least 4 hours to kill, the Starline Hop On Hop Off Tour of LA is a fun way to see the sights. The service has several different routes depending on your interests. If you have a full day, the trip through Hollywood is lots of fun.
If you’re in Los Angeles for business or pleasure, renting a car from Value Rental Car is the smart way to get around.
Enjoy free pickup and dropoff at LAX. Drivers under 21, debit card and cash customers welcome!
City Of LAX: Hidden Views Revealed
The film accompanying this blog, WORLD WAY: The City of LAX, follows the layers of movement at a major airport through timelapse photography. The idea for this piece was born in 2013 as I sat on a rooftop in El Segundo, waiting for a shoot on another subject to begin and looking out over Los Angeles.
The incoming planes looked like a
highway, evenly spaced and spread across multiple lanes. This led my eye to the
end of their path—LAX, the second busiest airport in the U.S. behind Atlanta
and the third busiest in the world.
I realized I had a fully unobstructed view of the airport and immediately started capturing timelapses of it. I became fascinated with the many layers of movement that were visible—airplanes taking off and landing, airplanes taxiing, ground support equipment moving on the ramp and throughout the airport, passenger vehicles on World Way, passengers on foot outside and inside the airport—all moving at their own unique pace.
It made me realize that LAX is a city unto itself, with so many moving pieces and individual people all doing their part to keep it moving. Despite its struggles, it is a logistical and modern marvel.
After that first night, I set off trying to create this short film. It took years to figure out how to gain access to all the unique angles I wanted to capture. In 2016, with support from the Los Angeles Tourism and Convention Board and Los Angeles World Airports, we started filming. It took more than three years to complete as my team navigated the hurdles of filming in such a controlled environment. But in the end, we got (almost) all of the locations we were after. Some highlights for me:
- The old LAX
control tower, the most magnificent and perfectly centered view of the entire
airport. This is the first really special location we were able to access, and
gave me ideas for so many new vantage points to try. - The dunes
west of LAX that separate it from the beach (and the home of the endangered El
Segundo blue butterfly). Standing on the dunes, where homes stood more than 50
years ago but have now been fully reclaimed by nature, and looking out on to
the city of LAX is a powerful juxtaposition. Few people get to see this side of
the airport. - The ramp of
Terminal 4 (thank you to American Airlines). We spent two days observing and
filming AA’s operations at LAX. Watching the full journey of a checked bag,
observing all the steps that go into turning and servicing an aircraft between
arrival and its next departure, and so much more. Watching it from this side
really changed my perspective of the commercial air travel experience. All of
these employees work like a well-oiled machine and make it look so easy, but I
know it definitely is not. I now always think about them when awaiting pushback
or for my bags to show up at the carousel. - And the
airfield itself. Standing on the grass next to a taxiway as a just landed heavy
or super jet rolls by is an incredible experience. Being so close while these
jets take off and land is overwhelming to multiple senses, but is also surreal
and therapeutic to witness and film. We have hours of footage of planes taking
off, landing, and taxiing.
Standing on the dunes, where homes stood more than 50
We have hours of footage of planes takingWe used timelapse and slow motion to highlight the layers of movement in a way that our eye cannot see. My initial goal for this project was simply to show visually interesting movements from such a busy and unique place. But as time passed, it became more about showing everything we don’t see that goes into keeping such a complex place operating, and to help people appreciate LAX in a new way. The editing was intense—trying to comb through material captured over three years in a place that’s constantly changing and turn it into something coherent was definitely a process. And trying to pick from so many awesome moments to determine what makes the cut. I had help filming this from a handful of people and I’m the only one on the crew that is really into aviation, but it was awesome to see everyone get super excited and into it whenever we were there.
Visiting LAX so many times during
this project without any intention of flying really opened my eyes and made me
look at it through a different lens.
While it’s easy (and not without reason)
to become frustrated with construction, traffic, delays, and all the issues
afflicting modern commercial air travel, I am also amazed that this place
operates as well as it does, safely and securely, day in and day out.
Next time you find yourself there,
take a moment and have a closer look at all the layers of movement happening
around you, inside and out. You can’t help but be impressed.
Chris Pritchard
Chris Pritchard is a Los Angeles-based photographer and cinematographer, focusing on timelapse and other high quality and high-resolution visuals. He’s an avid traveler and has created content for commercial, television, and film projects in hundreds of locations across five continents.
Inside LAX’s New Anti-Terrorism Intelligence Unit
No one paid the car any attention as it crept forward through morning traffic at LAX. Travelers wandering the arrivals area with their smartphones out, hands held up to block the sun, never even gave it a second thought.
Then the driver swerved, accelerating onto the sidewalk in front of Terminal 7. It ran over bags, flattened signage, and collided with pedestrians too slow to jump out of the way. Within seconds, before anyone had a chance to respond—to help the victims, to call 911—the driver detonated a homemade bomb hidden inside his car trunk.
The resulting explosion obliterated the front of the terminal, leading to a partial building collapse, and a catastrophic fire began to spread toward the gate area. The window-shattering blast was heard throughout the airport as black smoke, visible for miles, lifted in a pillar into the sky. Dozens were killed instantly.
Suicide car bombing had come to LAX.
In the summer of 2014, Anthony McGinty and Michelle Sosa were hired by Los Angeles World Airports to lead a unique, new classified intelligence unit on the West Coast. After only two years, their global scope and analytic capabilities promise to rival the agencies of a small nation-state.
Their roles suggest an intriguing new direction for infrastructure protection in an era when threats are as internationally networked as they are hard to predict.
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McGinty, 54, is a retired D.C. homicide detective now living in Pasadena. McGinty’s tenure in the nation’s capital, where he attained the rank of detective first grade, coincided with that city’s worst era for crime, in the early 1990s, when it was known as the murder capital of the United States. A Marine veteran who was stationed variously in Okinawa, Kosovo, Honduras, and the Mediterranean, and, as a reservist, served in the second Gulf War, McGinty is quiet, keeps his hair shorn close to his scalp, and bears a slight resemblance to actor J.K. Simmons.
While he was working the murder beat back east, McGinty also applied for and received a top-secret clearance. “I’d done everything I’d wanted to do in homicide,” he explained to me.
What’s more, he said, he had come back from his reserve deployment in Iraq to find his old squad broken up, his former partners gone. It was time for something new. Obtaining a security clearance helped pave the way for him to become a liaison between D.C. police command staff and the National Counter-Terrorism Center in Northern Virginia. There, one of his core responsibilities was to review classified overseas intelligence reports, detailing threats that might target the D.C. area. It was this experience that set the stage for his career’s unexpected second act at LAX.
His partner Sosa, 37, graduated with a degree in international relations from Boston University in May 2001. Trilingual in French, Spanish, and English, Sosa did not immediately know what sort of career to pursue. As a student, she had often flown cross-country from Boston to Los Angeles to visit her father, who works for the airline industry. When the 9/11 terrorist attacks occurred only four months after she graduated, Sosa realized that one of the planes, hijacked by ringleader Mohamed Atta, was on the same Boston-to-Los Angeles route Sosa herself had flown so many times before.
No longer confused about what to do with her degree, Sosa was moved by the attacks to apply for a federal intelligence job. Six months later, she disappeared into the labyrinth of U.S. intelligence, toiling as an analyst over the course of the next decade in both Florida and D.C., where she was often a youthful, even glamorous presence in a world of fluorescent lights and office cubicles. Her move out west to Los Angeles was not only professionally motivated: Sosa wanted to live near her family again, to ensure that her now 7-year-old daughter could grow up in the company of her grandparents.
As McGinty describes it, their current operation falls somewhere between a start-up and a think tank. Because she came from an intelligence background, Sosa had an eye for big-picture narratives; McGinty’s 25 years as a street detective and war veteran gave him tactical insights and a deep knowledge of police culture. Together, the two of them have brought classified in-house intelligence analysis to one of the world’s busiest airports, augmenting traditional beat-police operations with an investigatory agenda previously only associated not just with a federal agency but with the power and reach of a sovereign nation.
Bridges, tunnels, ports, dams, pipelines, and airfields have an emergent geopolitical clout that now rivals democratically elected civic institutions.
In his September 2016 cover story for The Atlantic, Stephen Brill suggested that infrastructure’s outsize political influence today has only been amplified and accelerated by the country’s ongoing reaction to the terrorist attacks of 9/11. Under the moniker of “critical infrastructure protection,” energy-production, transportation-logistics, waste-disposal, and other sites have been transformed from often-overlooked megaprojects on the edge of the metropolis into the heavily fortified, tactical crown jewels of the modern state. Bridges, tunnels, ports, dams, pipelines, and airfields have an emergent geopolitical clout that now rivals democratically elected civic institutions.
Sosa and McGinty’s unit is LAX’s attempt to reinvent itself as a player on the international intelligence stage. Their work promises to propel the city’s aging airport to the forefront of today’s conversations about what it means to protect critical infrastructure and, in the process, to redefine where true power lies in the 21st-century metropolis.
The car bomb that decimated Terminal 7 shut down LAX for nearly a week and led to a nationwide terror alert. Flights around the world were affected. Incoming planes had to be rerouted to other regional airports, causing knock-on problems elsewhere. Cargo losses at LAX alone were estimated at more than $100 million per day. Over the course of the next week, the death toll continued to rise as victims succumbed to their injuries in the overwhelmed emergency rooms of local hospitals.
The attack was a sobering but—thankfully—fictional scenario, part of an emergency tabletop exercise held in a conference room deep inside the Westin Los Angeles Airport Hotel. The meeting was what’s known as an Aviation Security Contingency Plan Exercise, or AVSEC. Workers in airport traffic control, Homeland Security, Fire Department, Transportation Security Administration, and police uniforms joined colleagues from the FBI, multiple international and domestic airlines, and nearby airport hotels to discuss the latest in threat prevention. The exercise occurs once a year, always with a different plot. There have been car bombs, hijackings, mass shootings—an ever-growing catalog of speculative catastrophes, all carefully studied and dissected for their training or tactical value.
The idea of bringing McGinty and Sosa to Los Angeles can be traced back to Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa’s administration. In November 2010, Villaraigosa assembled a Blue Ribbon Panel to assess the state of airport security in and around Los Angeles. There was a general—and, as the panel confirmed, justified—fear that the region’s airports were not prepared to respond to a terrorist threat of any nature, let alone to something on the scale of 9/11. The group’s final report was released seven months later, in June 2011, and it included 162 pages of specific recommendations for the airport authority to implement as quickly as possible.
One of the commission’s key suggestions was that Los Angeles World Airports, or LAWA, the umbrella organization that controls not just LAX but a smaller regional airport in Van Nuys, “should consider creating the position of Director of Intelligence.” The person in this role “would proactively gather and share counterterrorism intelligence,” and he or she would do so not only with the region’s many airports, from LAX to Palm Springs, Van Nuys to San Diego, but also with federal—even, if necessary, international—law-enforcement agencies. To assist with this, the report suggested, the airport’s future director of intelligence should also hire “a staff focused exclusively on gathering and analyzing intelligence regarding terrorist threats.” LAX would no longer be dependent on secondhand reports.
Ethel McGuire, a senior LAWA official and member of the Blue Ribbon Panel, took this advice seriously. In the end, she hired not just one but two intelligence analysts for the job: Anthony McGinty and Michelle Sosa. McGuire was impressed by the complementary approaches that McGinty and Sosa employed—so she rewrote some budget lines and grabbed them both.
McGuire herself came to LAWA, where she is now assistant chief, after a full career at the FBI. She was, in fact, one of the very few female African American agents in the Bureau’s history. Her daughter is also now an FBI special agent, making them the only mother-daughter duo ever to serve in the FBI simultaneously.
McGuire is soft-spoken, with elegantly cropped hair and a helpful, even grandmotherly, demeanor. She and I met in person at the AVSEC exercise, during a break from discussions of terrorist car bombs, radiation fears, and terminal fires. Sosa and McGinty’s work is still experimental, she emphasized. “I didn’t know exactly how this would work,” McGuire said. After all, when she first got to LAWA in 2010, finding good intelligence about airport-directed threats was nearly impossible. “But I was like: Look, this was my former life. I know stuff happens at the airport! We’ve got to be able to provide something more if you want to protect this critical asset.”
LAX is a city within a city. At more than five square miles, it is only slightly smaller than Beverly Hills. More than 50,000 badged employees report to work there each day, many with direct access to the airfield—and thus to the vulnerable aircraft waiting upon it. More than 100,000 passenger vehicles use the airport’s roads and parking lots every day, and, in 2015 alone, LAX hosted 75 million passengers in combined departures and arrivals.
LAX is also policed like a city. The airport has its own SWAT team—known as the Emergency Services Unit—and employs roughly 500 sworn police officers, double the number of cops in the well-off city of Pasadena and more than the total number of state police in all of Rhode Island.
“Not only do you have the operational component,” McGuire said, “but you have all the policing—and policing is so different from intelligence gathering. What I wanted to do was to really heighten or enhance the intelligence portion. It is so impactful to how you police, why you police, where you police, and everything that you do in combating a terrorist threat.”
For their work to have any real tactical value, McGinty and Sosa need to assess a world that exists far beyond the perimeter of LAX. “This is global,” McGuire said. “We’re an international airport. We have about a hundred different countries flying here. If you stop traffic at LAX, it has an immediate global impact on aviation; if LAX shuts down, it immediately affects a hundred other countries.”
(Alex Petrowsky)
* * *
On a cloudless, 76-degree autumn day, I was picked up in an armor-plated Ford Interceptor driven by LAWA police officer Tia Moore. McGinty rode quietly in the back seat, phone in one hand, small notebook open on his knee.
“LAX attracts people who have a political agenda,” McGinty said. We were heading out onto the airfield for a combined introductory tour and routine daily patrol, where we drove for miles among the roots of jetways and towering international aircraft. A heat haze coming off the tarmac gave everything an otherworldly, almost oceanic shimmer. We passed baggage trucks and other security vehicles, and stopped at easily missed intersections marked on the ground with colored paint. With most vertical obstructions banned—lest they endanger the aircraft—the landscape has to be read on the ground, as if driving through a two-dimensional diagram five square miles in size.
Think of the so-called “Millennium Bomber,” McGinty told me as we drove on. He was arrested trying to cross the U.S./Canadian border back in December 1999 with a car full of explosives—and his stated goal had been to bomb LAX. Or think of the man who targeted Israeli airline El Al in a combined knife and gun attack at the airport on July 4, 2002. Or the unemployed anti-government conspiracy theorist who drove to LAX in November 2013 for no other reason than to shoot and kill a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) agent.
On the other hand, dramatic security events at the Los Angeles airport sometimes border on the absurd. In August 2016, a man dressed as Zorro, carrying a plastic sword, triggered an armed response by LAWA police; unfortunately for Zorro, his appearance coincided with panic over a possible active shooter somewhere else in the airport. The resulting near-stampede threw LAX into chaos, with passengers and employees alike fleeing through security doors and assembling outside near the runways. At the AVSEC exercise, the episode was alternately referred to as “Zorro Day” and the “Zorro Incident,” not without stifled laughter.
“You never know what you’re going to get,” McGinty said.
We stuck as close to the airport perimeter as we could, looking out at the black windows of nearby hotels, through which someone, of course, could also be watching us. McGinty explained that the process of gathering useful intelligence includes meeting with those local hotel managers to discuss potential threats. “Our job is to go beyond the perimeter,” he said. There might be a suspicious guest filming airplanes from his or her hotel room, for example, or someone setting off a hotel’s rooftop alarm. They might just be going outside for a smoke—or they might be trying to shoot down one of the many planes flying unnervingly low overhead.
Stacey Peel, a globally recognized expert on the security implications of airport design, would agree with this assessment. She told me that even the best-designed aviation facilities still have serious security flaws, especially if, for example, their runways are surrounded by badly managed hotels with direct views of the airplanes. Approach roads, parking lots, green spaces—let alone local crime statistics—all help to define an airport’s threat profile. Each profile, much to the consternation of security professionals, is resolutely, frustratingly unique.
Peel currently works in central London, where she is head of the “strategic aviation security” team at engineering super-firm Arup. She explained that every airport can be thought of as a miniature version of the city that hosts it. An airport thus concentrates, in one vulnerable place, many of the very things a terrorist is most likely to target. “The economic impact, the media imagery, the public anxiety, the mass casualties, the cultural symbolism,” Peel pointed out. “The aviation industry ticks all of those boxes.” Attack LAX and you symbolically attack the entirety of L.A., not to mention the nerve center of Western entertainment. It’s an infrastructural voodoo doll.
As the tour continued, McGinty stressed that even someone heading toward LAX in a taxi, acting strangely—perhaps holding unusual luggage, talking about God and bombs—needs to be on their radar. Does the driver have a way to contact airport security without tipping off the passenger? Will LAWA police lose track of the taxi amid the hundreds of other vehicles visiting the facility that day? Is the person inside even a danger?
We eventually reached a distant, all-but-silent corner of the airfield where suspected bombs are dealt with. McGinty pointed my attention down to a number of blue grids are painted on the concrete. These indicated spots where baggage could be detonated. He then noted a massive blue circle surrounding it all, a shape so large I, paradoxically, would not have noticed it. This circle, visible on Google Earth, marks the outer perimeter within which an entire aircraft could be parked during a bomb scare.
Of course, securing LAX doesn’t always involve big-ticket threats like this—or, indeed, even like Zorro Day. Officer Moore explained that she has responded to plenty of incidents of sheer stupidity, including stray pets, from dogs to birds, going wild in the terminals. A confused woman “off her meds” caused a seemingly endless series of car accidents in the passenger drop-off area. One night, two people caught sneaking a drink in a restricted area fled at great personal danger toward an active runway until Moore herself ran them down on foot. As trivial as these sound, any one of these events could have been a distraction for a larger terrorist incident; McGinty and Sosa must pay attention to every one of them.
While we were talking, I noticed a field of sand dunes and empty streets at the western end of the airport. There used to be a suburb there. A wealthy coastal enclave called Surfridge was acquired through eminent domain by the city of Los Angeles in the 1960s. Following a referendum in 1965, Surfridge was slowly dismantled in the name of airport safety, leaving behind nothing but uninhabited streets. The area is now officially a butterfly preserve, its cracked pavement nonetheless used by LAWA police as a convenient site for tactical-driver training school and simulated chemical attacks.
The ghostly remains of Surfridge also present an unusual security risk. As we drove through a padlocked gate, McGinty noted that various systems of alarms and sensors ring the now-dead neighborhood, a place where not a single house remains but where retaining walls and old water pipes are still visible sticking up from the sandy ground. The views of the sea are incredible.
If an alarm goes off, it could just be kids sneaking in to smoke pot, he pointed out, or it could be something far worse. He mentioned the possibility of a terrorist group or cartel-affiliated gang smuggling shoulder-fired missiles into the city with the goal of shooting down planes at LAX. “The dunes,” as McGinty referred to Surfridge, would be an ideal location for this.
Indeed, the outer edge of LAX is one of the most interesting parts of the entire airport. I spent several hours that day touring secure construction sites; an emergency-operations center with clocks set to local time in Singapore, Sydney, London, and Moscow; a sprawling fuel depot, connected by underground pipelines all the way to Long Beach; and a closed-circuit television (CCTV) hub, but it was this transition zone between LAX and the rest of the city, where the civilian world hits the secure one, that emerged as perhaps McGinty’s greatest source of concern.
Of course, the true shape of the airport’s perimeter is invisible to the unaided eye; it is much more high-tech than mere fences and automotive patrols. Among other things, McGinty added, new tracking software is being tested to keep tabs on area drones. What’s more, with revised airspace regulations and new technological options, such as “geofencing” and GPS jamming, future neighbors might find that their shiny new toys literally cannot fly within a mile or two of the airport. Why tear down the next Surfridge, in other words, when you can simply reprogram its airspace?
(Alex Petrowsky)
* * *
LAX is currently embroiled in a multibillion-dollar “modernization” program. When McGinty and I got out of the car to wander on foot through a maze of badge-accessible doors, security checkpoints, and active construction sites, the true scale of the disruption became clear. McGinty compared it to a puzzle. “You’re running an airport and you’re building an airport at the same time,” he said. We stepped around piles of drywall and out of the way of errant forklifts. The oldest terminals are being upgraded; an entire new facility is being built outside the perimeter fence to concentrate car-rental returns; and there is even a seven-story automated “people mover” currently awaiting construction.
An innovative private terminal to be built on the southeastern edge of LAX is set to join the turmoil. The Private Suite at LAX, as it’s known, will be a high-priced VIP facility for travelers who would like—and who can afford—greater anonymity. Whether you’re a movie star or foreign royalty, the Private Suite is where you can sip your champagne (and drop off your luggage) isolated from the gaze of both fellow travelers and L.A. paparazzi.
The Private Suite is the brainchild of security consultant Gavin de Becker. The silver-haired de Becker is the author of, among other things, The Gift of Fear, a 1997 book that advocates respecting your instinctive reactions to dangerous situations and people in order to protect yourself from impending violence. Despite his focus on security, and with a well-known expertise in protecting clients from assassination, de Becker is a critic of what he calls “Fort Apache architecture,” the aggressively unfriendly, even anti-civic design tendencies that result in foreboding expressions of defensiveness and paranoia. Security, he believes, can be achieved through more subtle and aesthetic means.
As anyone who has ever watched TMZ or clicked on a YouTube video of a celebrity arriving at LAX has seen, it is obvious that the airport, as it currently exists, has a celebrity problem. This is not just an issue for the over-inflated egos of VIP travelers; it is an irritation for other, less gilded flyers, and it can be an enormous headache for airport-security teams. Massive crowds of closely packed, emotionally agitated fans and photographers do not always make for safe public gatherings. The Private Suite at LAX aims to sidestep all this by literally removing VIP travelers from the equation.
The Private Suite is located three miles away from the main terminals, although it is still within the confines of the airfield. Accessed via the Imperial Freeway, it poses almost no traffic concerns and benefits from a location that makes paparazzi photography—not to mention sniper fire—effectively impossible. Travelers need not be flying a private aircraft to use the new terminal; they can be escorted from the security and comfort of their suite, directly to a commercial jet. Even their TSA inspection will take place in private. De Becker was inspired, at least in part, by the Windsor Lounge at London’s Heathrow Airport, another VIP terminal where the cost of access currently hovers around $4,000 per person per flight. Many of de Becker’s existing clients already use the Windsor Suite, he explained to me, and it seemed like a no-brainer to try something similar in Los Angeles.
In 20 years’ time, it could very well be that LAX has a stronger international-intelligence game than many U.S. allies.
I met with de Becker in a secure office complex whose location I agreed not to reveal; de Becker was physically off-site that day, however, so we spoke through an encrypted video link. The interiors are soundproofed and include a shooting gallery, an entire airplane fuselage used for live training exercises, and an architectural mockup of the future Private Suite at LAX. Signed photos from film stars and U.S. presidents, thanking de Becker for his service, line the walls. The sign outside the complex is deliberately misleading; you could walk past de Becker’s false-front office every day and never guess that it is a laboratory for, among other things, preventing assassinations.
“LAX is arguably the number-one terrorist target in the United States,” de Becker began, “and certainly the number-one aviation target.” By removing what de Becker calls “high-risk, high-profile travelers” from the existing gates and terminals, a significant additional target of potential violence and a substantial source of logistical disruption can be eliminated at a stroke. As I sat near a window overlooking a soundproof room stocked with high-power rifles and a bullet-riddled SUV, de Becker was keen to emphasize to me that his project is not intended as a luxury experience for the 1 percent. Its aim is to provide a vital security service for everyone who flies into and out of LAX. “Our mission is to prevent commotion,” de Becker said. “We want to peel those travelers off the main terminal and make it a far easier intelligence and security job to manage.”
Of course, one side effect of the Private Suite is that it will concentrate high-value targets—from pop bands to hedge-fund managers—in one location, raising the possibility of future spectacular attacks; but, De Becker emphasized, the Private Suite is not open to public visitation or even to public view. This fact alone offers an immediate buffer, an example of what he calls “white space,” the protective quarantine something needs in order to maintain operational safety.
It is also a project that LAX is uniquely qualified to host, de Becker added. Precisely because of the airport’s precarious mix of high-risk travelers, its valuable global cargo, its constricted urban location, and its tens of millions of annual users, LAX is in an ideal position to innovate—because it must.
As LAX goes, in other words, so go other airports around the world—at least that’s what de Becker hopes, as the Private Suite has yet to open for business. When it does launch in 2017, however, its effect on security will be instantaneous, as the new terminal promises to drastically rearrange the airport’s internal dynamics, like a cell splitting in two. As McGinty pointed out to me, “The environment always shapes the response”—and this is never more true than when the environment itself is constantly shifting.
* * *
LAWA’s intelligence headquarters is located in an unremarkable gated complex, tucked behind a cinderblock wall on a dead-end street off Sepulveda Boulevard. The famously close approach of passenger jets supplies a near-continuous roar, reminding everyone of what they’re there to protect. This is where McGinty comes to work each day. (Sosa spends most of her time at the Joint Regional Intelligence Center, a straight shot east on the freeway in Norwalk.)
McGinty leads me through a series of badge-accessible doors into a low-ceilinged room filled with cubicles. There are model airplanes and spare security uniforms, as well as a small stack of orange spiral-bound notebooks on one of McGinty’s bookshelves. I asked about them.
He pulled a few down from the shelf to show me. “My wife is Japanese,” he explained. Every once in a while, the two of them will go to the downtown branch of Kinokuniya, the stationery and literature megastore roughly equivalent to a Japanese Barnes & Noble, where McGinty likes to buy a particular brand of notebook. Falling back on old habits from his days with the D.C. police, he said, he uses these to keep notes and track larger research questions for every day on the job.
McGinty has clearly held onto his detective roots: In one of his desk drawers was a binder stuffed with old case files—or “case jackets,” in police parlance—that he had brought with him from D.C. These included page after page of former investigations, including gang shootings and serial killers. McGinty also worked internal affairs, he said, where he served briefly in a police corruption unit, pursuing cops who, among other things, had been openly profiting from a prostitution ring.
In one sense, LAX is a giant speculative crime scene whose diffuse borders and international suspects require more than just foot patrols and CCTV. While McGinty cagily avoided any questions about specific threats he and Sosa might currently be investigating, we touched upon everything from stray shoulder-fired missiles and South American terrorist groups to disgruntled cargo employees and the latest issue of the ISIS magazine Rumiyah. Elsewhere on his desk were guides to the science of crowd control, an encyclopedia of airport operations, even a pamphlet or two about extremist networks, including one on how to recognize and interpret white-nationalist tattoos.
To protect LAX, he said, you have to know about all of this—riots and lone-wolf terrorists, car bombs and foreign dignitaries. It was about asking the right research questions and understanding the true global context for what might appear, at first, to be a local event.
Greg Lindsay is coauthor of the 2011 book Aerotropolis: The Way We’ll Live Next, written with University of North Carolina business consultant John Kasarda. Seen through Lindsay’s eyes, aviation logistics takes on near-psychedelic dimensions. When someone looks at a map of the world, he or she might take in superficial details, like the outlines of nation-states, but Lindsay sees tax-free supply-chain hubs, special economic zones, and transnational land deals. Individual airports, he pointed out, are complexly knit together through global-service contracts and preferred air routes that often defy straightforward geopolitical explanations. What’s more, the value of consumer goods that pass through the LAX-to-Tokyo or LAX-to-Shanghai air corridors often exceeds the GDPs of many nation-states—yet those invisible routes, despite their outsize economic influence, don’t show up on world maps.
The fact that an airport such as LAX would begin to realize its true power and economic stature in the world is not at all surprising for Lindsay—nor, of course, is it news to anyone that airports are increasingly terrorist targets. A piece of infrastructure turning into its own intelligence-gathering apparatus, Lindsay suggested, is just “the natural trickle-down effect of when, after 9/11, the NYPD expanded its own intelligence efforts, deciding that the FBI, CIA, and Homeland Security were simply not good enough. They had to project their own presence.” More to the point, they realized, like LAX, just how much there was to protect—and how badly other people wanted to destroy it.
Today’s threats, whether terrorist or merely criminal, are increasingly networked and dispersed; it only makes sense that an institution’s response to them must take a similar form. It might sound like science fiction, but, in 20 years’ time, it could very well be that LAX has a stronger international-intelligence game than many U.S. allies. LAX field agents could be embedded overseas, cultivating informants, sussing out impending threats. It will be an era of infrastructural intelligence, when airfields, bridges, ports, and tunnels have, in effect, their own internal versions of the CIA—and LAX will have been there first.
Indeed, the LAX model of in-house analysts—such as McGinty and Sosa—working with classified intelligence material, has already become an objective elsewhere. Other airports are watching. Christian Samlaska, the senior manager of aviation security at the Port of Seattle, is currently working on a similar initiative, he told me. “This is something we want to adopt,” he said. Samlaska went on to explain that SeaTac—the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport—is putting substantial resources into full employee screening in order to combat the ominous possibility of an insider threat. The next wave of attacks could very well come from radicalized workers with security access.
“Our new norm is the unknown,” said McGuire, the LAWA official who hired McGinty and Sosa, as she and I wrapped up our conversation. McGuire is worried that the calculus for anticipating certain kinds of attacks could change, and she feels an urgency for airport intelligence to keep up. “Our new norm is: What’s next?” McGuire added after a pause. “And that’s how it shouldn’t be.”
Case Files
Although Anthony McGinty and Michelle Sosa declined to provide information about specific criminal cases or terrorist plots that they have tracked while working at the airport, several hypothetical narratives emerged from my interviews with law-enforcement authorities at LAX. The following scenarios are not examples of actual events that have taken place, or of real threats that have been averted, but are instead meant as provocative fictions similar to the AVSEC exercise described in this article. Nonetheless, these are the kinds of scenarios that Sosa and McGinty were hired to protect against every day.
Taxi Driver
A local yellow-cab driver picks up a passenger in Westwood who asks to be taken to LAX—but the customer is carrying a backpack from which odd-looking wires protrude and he has begun making highly suspicious comments into his cellphone. The driver manages to notify airport authorities without the passenger realizing it—but Los Angeles police officers have lost the taxi in traffic. The clock is ticking; the car is only blocks away.
Internal Affairs
Someone with secure access to an airplane has been helping to ship contraband goods. As McGinty and Sosa explained to me, passengers smuggling drugs, weapons, and cash through LAX is unnervingly common—but this is a particularly ominous case, because it reveals an insider threat. A member of an aircrew, authorities learn, has been paid to stash “something” on an outbound plane; the worker appears to have been duped into loading an explosive device into the cargo hold. Finding which airplane—as well as the network of airport workers responsible—is urgent.
Age of the Wolf
Two Iraq War veterans from eastern Oregon, already known to authorities for expressing vigorous support for white-power groups on social media, have stolen so-called MANPADs (Man-portable Air Defense Systems) from a National Guard armory in central California. On Tuesday morning, they are spotted in the Los Angeles suburb of Palmdale. That Friday night, there is a perimeter breach in the dunes behind LAX, and a van is parked in the vicinity with plates that LAWA police have traced back to a militant neo-Nazi. Many international flights are already on the runway, lined up for takeoff.
Hotel California
A Moroccan woman staying at a hotel near LAX leaves a video camera mounted on a tripod in her hotel room while she is out for the day. Although the camera is turned off, the housecleaning crew believes that she has been filming takeoffs and landings. They notify their manager. Federal authorities soon learn that the guest’s overseas associates once appeared on an FBI watch-list (although they have since been removed). Is the woman a film buff, an aviation enthusiast—or an imminent threat?
The Arrival
A logistical mix-up overseas means that, with less than three hours before arrival, federal authorities learn that a notorious, widely hated member of a European organized crime family is on his way to LAX—and, it is feared, his presence in the city will not go unnoticed by local rivals. Airport authorities need immediate intelligence on whether or not someone might try to confront and even kill him within the airport; worse, they now have only two hours to gather this information and put it to use.
Fatal Attraction
An emotionally troubled young man from suburban New Jersey has moved to Santa Monica to be closer to his favorite film star. He also recently purchased a handgun, and he has been making openly paranoid statements to his landlord. The actress he believes he is in love with is flying out of LAX later this week—and he will do anything to be there to see her go.
Assassin’s Creed
It has been seven months since a graduate student in international relations dropped out of the University of Southern California after threatening a Jewish classmate for her public support of Israel. A member of the Israeli Knesset, well known for his hardline stance against an independent Palestinian state, is visiting Los Angeles next week. This former student will be waiting at baggage claim to greet him.
90,000 recession, weak ruble, Chinese expansion
The Insider asked leading Russian experts to assess the possible consequences of a new wave of economic sanctions for Russia. The forecasts were disappointing.
Sergey Guriev, visiting professor at the Institute for Political Studies (Paris)
– How painful for the Russian economy can those sanctions from the United States, which have already been announced, turn out to be? (And what kind of sanctions can we expect from the EU?)
– They are really very painful.The market has calmed down after the March sanctions, the new sanctions indicate that the United States is not going to play back, moreover, the addition of new companies is possible. While the list of sanctioned transactions is limited, these are the transactions that will hit stock prices (after all, they can no longer be sold to American investors) and corporate bonds for more than 90 days. It will be impossible to attract bank loans either. Fears that the sanctions against Bank Rossiya were a warning about the possibility of imposing sanctions against larger banks were justified – now they are VEB and Gazprombank.It is scary to imagine which banks may be affected by the next rounds of sanctions.
– Russian corporations have already faced the problem of on-lending from large Western banks, how serious can this problem become for economic growth in Russia?
– In the near future this will not lead to a catastrophe, but, of course, it will negatively affect the ruble exchange rate
– Do the Western countries have the resource to toughen sanctions and what could be especially painful for the Russian economy?
– Sanctions like today’s do not lead to significant losses for Western economies, but they can be very costly for the Russian economy – especially if they are extended to other legal entities.
Mikhail Krutikhin, partner and analyst of the consulting agency RusEnergy
– How will foreign shareholders react to the sanctions? For example, BP, a major shareholder of Rosneft, will he get rid of his stake now?
– I do not expect any immediate consequences either from foreign shareholders of Rosneft, or from its American partners in large projects such as ExxonMobil, which has joint projects with Rosneft on Sakhalin, as well as the Kara Sea and the Black Sea.The entire last series of sanctions concerns, first of all, long-term loans, and not the seizure of any assets or a ban on cooperation.
– There is no direct ban, but can foreign companies understand this as a signal that it is time to curtail cooperation. Will this have any effect on the investment climate?
– Yes, of course, this will lead to a deterioration in the investment climate and will become an alarming signal for partner companies, which already felt this signal when the first sanctions were introduced.Then they consulted with their lawyers for a long time and decided that everything would be the same if there was no direct ban on business relations with companies. If there is such a ban, as happened with Iran, then foreign companies will have to curtail cooperation with Russian partners.
– Will the sanctions somehow affect large projects in Russia?
– According to the decision of the US Treasury Department, existing obligations are not subject to sanctions, but future projects will be on the verge of collapse if it turns out that money cannot be borrowed for a long time.Or else you will have to be enslaved by China.
– Why China, after all, Europe has not yet imposed sanctions?
– European financial institutions work closely with their American counterparts. Except for China, no one will help here. Remember, when Rosneft urgently needed a loan at an auction where YUKOS was bankrupt, the only ones who were ready to give money quickly were the Chinese, the rest decided that they would not give money to buy the stolen money.
– What exactly is the threat of Chinese economic expansion?
– The Chinese can knock out privileges for themselves.First, they actually receive oil and gas as collateral for the loan, they have already paid for it all. Secondly, they turn out to be the only consumers of energy resources in the east, and as such, as they have already shown, they are able to achieve large discounts on prices, and sometimes receive oil and gas even below the cost price. So, for example, I learned from the gas contract with China, which by all accounts will never pay off.
– Why do you think Gazprom was not subject to sanctions?
– Firstly, some European countries strongly depend on its supplies (some are even 100%, such as Finland), and secondly, it is not a completely commercial organization, it is rather something like the Ministry of the Gas Industry dealing with political tasks and parasitic on the budget.So it is unlikely that now they will impose sanctions against him, but this does not mean that he will come out dry. At the end of last year, the European Commission promised to publish a decision on a fine for Gazprom for monopoly practice in Europe. Then the deadline was postponed to March, and now experts still expect the European Commission to publish something, and it could be from 12 to 16 billion dollars in fines for the fact that Gazprom behaved as a monopolist in the European markets.
– What sanctions can be expected from Europe in general, will they become as tough as the American ones?
– No, I think they will be softer (although they are still quite soft now).So some particularly courageous banks, I think, will continue their cooperation with those Russian companies with which they have long-standing ties.
– Is this due to the fact that Europe is more energy dependent?
– Yes, this is the first reason. And the second is the action of an active lobby, which in Europe is directly called “agents of Gazprom,” as, for example, ex-chancellor Gerhard Schroeder.
Igor Nikolaev, Director of the Institute for Strategic Analysis FBK
– How serious are the proposed sanctions for the Russian financial market?
– I think they are serious enough.Although this is not called sectoral sanctions, in essence they are. If we talk about Europe, the restriction of financing from the EBRD and European investment banks is, in fact, sectoral sanctions that affect various industries, and not only industry. As for the US sanctions, they will affect the banking and military sectors. Yes, these are not yet frontal sanctions, so this is not the worst thing that can be, and nevertheless, they will affect investments. Including Russian investments, as risks and uncertainties grow.We must also take into account what the Russian economy is already in. If it were on the rise, everything would not be so scary, but when the economy moves from stagnation to recession – of course, sanctions are doubly painful.
– Does this mean that the recession can no longer be avoided?
– At the end of last year we made a forecast that the Russian economy would enter a recession, and now we only have additional arguments.
– Can the sanctions be extended to other sectors and other state corporations?
– Of course, we will all hope that the situation will return to normal, but the sanctions can be extended.And the fact that this will negatively affect the Western countries themselves is not an argument. Of course it will be reflected and they understand it very well. But they can go for it, they need to realize it, maybe then some kind of rethinking will come.
– How realistic is it in this context to reorient towards Asia and, first of all, towards China?
– It’s not that easy, Asia has enough suppliers of the same energy resources. Moreover, in this region everything is also not cloudless, in China, for example, growth is slowing down.In any case, you will not be able to quickly reorient yourself. Let’s say that the same gas pipeline still needs to be built, and this is not a matter of one year. And time is now working against us.
– How will ordinary people feel the sanctions on themselves? How will they be expressed in the first place?
– There will not be a sharp collapse, the situation will deteriorate gradually (which, of course, is little consolation). Actually, we are already seeing some consequences: for example, inflation for the first half of the year was 4.8%, which the government had planned for a year.Inflation is a consequence of currency fluctuations, which in turn is the result of all these political problems. So we should expect the usual set of consequences for the economic crisis: wages will be frozen, layoffs will begin, and the growth of utility tariffs will increase.
90,000 with such “friends” enemies are not neededIf today the interested party were offered good money for the confidential data of any company, its representatives would probably not spend a lot of effort on hacking servers or attacking a closed section of the site, but tried to find an accomplice for themselves within this company – a legal employee with legal access rights.
And if he turned out to be not too devoted to corporate values, greedy for money or, say, offended by his management, the goal of the attackers would be achieved in 90% of cases. Why? Because who, if not an insider, knows all the weaknesses in the company’s data protection system, who else, if not he, has the ability to copy the necessary data, and it is quite legitimate.
Announce the entire list
Who is an insider? Many companies, especially those that are engaged in auditing in the field of information security (IS), often refer to one of their services as “Drawing up a psychological portrait of an insider.”We will not pretend to such subtleties and will try to move away from traditional classifications. Here’s our variation:
- Pavlik Morozov is a legal employee of the company who acts purposefully and is able to attract significant technical resources (for example, computing power) to gain access to information of interest to him. At the same time, he uses social engineering, and physical access to the server and disks with confidential data, and other opportunities, 90% of which are completely legal and necessary for his regular activities.It is necessary to fight against “frosty peacocks” with the help of not only personalized access and audit of his actions on the network, but also control over outgoing information flows.
- Pinocchio – as you know, “Pinocchio” is distinguished by curiosity and the desire to stick his nose into other people’s business. This type of insider is characterized by the fact that even if by the nature of his activity he should not have access to confidential data, he still, often out of curiosity, wants to familiarize himself with it.Most likely, such a person will not take any targeted actions to gain access to confidential data, but will not fail to take advantage of administrative errors, for example, the unexpected opportunity to view the contents of a disc with financial information over the network. But if “Pinocchio” wants to share such data with someone else, then this can result in much more unpleasant consequences for the company.
- Bad boy is a legal employee with the right to access the server itself, but not enough authority to access confidential information.Such a person may try to raise the level of authority in the server OS, which is insufficient for his own purposes, unrelated to work, to, say, the level of an administrator. After that, the “bad boy” will copy the files of interest (databases, storage of emails) for later viewing (quite possibly for the sake of interest or simply to satisfy personal ambitions). Such insider actions would be impossible with a clear distribution of access rights and powers, as well as audit of user actions on the network.
- Elusive Avenger – is an offended or dismissed employee who can take advantage of the period of time before the administrator revokes his access rights to confidential data, to copy or change them in order to somehow “recoup” their grievances. And in the case of an offended employee, again, the administrator can be considered guilty, therefore, the method of protection described above is applicable in this case.
- Gray Cardinal – in some cases this character is the operating system administrator, who by default has the highest level of access rights.The system administrator can access any disk on the server over the network using the so-called administrative network resources of the form \\ server \ diskname $.
Moreover, it is the system administrator who is most likely to enter into a criminal conspiracy with an interested party outside the organization, but regularly receiving valuable information from his person. This is perhaps the most difficult type of insider to deal with. However, with the correct distribution of the roles of the administrator and the security officer, as well as provided that the administrator’s actions are audited in the system, good results can be achieved.
Golden Rules
We briefly touched upon the possibilities for preventing insider actions, and now we will try to take a closer look at the methods of counteraction.
Personification . In order to always have an idea of who is knocking on my door, access to all company resources, especially to those containing critical data for its activities (in particular, financial and business plans), must be personalized, which will significantly reduce the risk of users refusing to perform their actions.
Hardware Authentication . Today, this method is becoming more widespread, since it allows you to abandon unreliable and potentially weak authentication using a username and password, moreover, it opens up new opportunities in the field of security for companies that value their reputation. Strong authentication requires two or more additional factors, in particular:
- something we know – PIN
- something we have – something that is necessary for the authentication procedure (for example, a USB key or smart card)
Strong authentication requires a physical device – a token that confirms the identity of its owner, which increases the employee’s personal responsibility.Currently, there are many such devices on the market based on different technologies and made in different form factors. Let’s dwell on this aspect in more detail.
The ability to simultaneously support user authentication and at the same time generate and store key information and other secret data in protected memory is the main criterion for an effective technical means of protecting computers and data. Modern electronic devices based on smart card technologies are architecturally implemented on the basis of a secure microprocessor, which is responsible for performing cryptographic operations in the token itself.
Such devices provide more reliable data protection by eliminating the use of private keys in an unprotected computer environment. In this case, a USB interface is preferable, since the corresponding connectors are available on almost any computer and such devices, unlike smart cards, do not require an additional reader. Moreover, tokens based on smart card technologies can be supplemented with an RFID tag for radio frequency identification, so that they can be used not only to enter the network, but also to differentiate access to premises.
The most popular electronic keys in Russia are eToken from Aladdin, ruToken from Aktiv and iKey from Rainbow Technologies. Each of these manufacturers supply a wide range of keys. Note that the choice of a customer is most often determined by the specifics of the business, the financial component and the degree of importance of information security for a particular commercial structure. Therefore, we will not dwell on the comparative analysis of keys – this is a topic for a separate article.
Audit of all activities in the network .It is imperative to audit the actions of users and administrators on the network. However, we note that the regular audit system does not have sufficient protection, and therefore a more powerful independent system is needed that protects the corporate network not only from the outside, but also from the inside.
For a more complete and reliable solution to the problem of data protection, the security administrator must be able to monitor the actions of users, including those with administrator rights – checking their network activity should be approached with special care.Note that monitoring is necessary both as a preventive measure and to reduce the risks of information leakage.
Data coding . This aspect of security is most relevant for those data that are of particular interest from the point of view of an insider – the database itself, reporting, financial indicators, audit data, etc. Data encryption is a prerequisite for the security of information stored on top management laptops. As you know, in recent years, the percentage of thefts of mobile computers, and, consequently, information leakage through this channel has increased dramatically.
Perhaps, we will not dwell on the data encoding means. We only note that the important criteria are: the possibility of “background” coding, invisible to the user, the ability to connect external crypto algorithms (it is better to simply forget about “self-written” protection) and the implementation of sector-by-sector coding (thanks to which you can pause or even completely cancel coding at any time with guaranteed preservation of all data). Particular attention should be paid to the possibilities of backing up and restoring encryption keys to and / or from a file or to and / or from the electronic key memory.
To protect data stored and processed on servers, preference should be given to complex systems using multithreaded coding technology, which allows optimal use of the computing power available on the server, especially on multiprocessor servers.
Continuous work with personnel . This last point is by no means so important. Many leaders rely on a strong technical base, forgetting that the weakest link in a defense system is the human.An effective information security system should equally combine both adequate technological potential and permanent work with personnel.
Within an organization, you can mitigate the risks of intentional or accidental unauthorized access by implementing a security policy. Such a policy should describe the behavior of employees on the Internet, work with trusted and untrusted sources, rules for downloading files, filling out forms (especially those that require passwords or employee details), etc.
One should not ignore such a simple but effective method as public debriefing. In the event of an incident or at least regularly repeated attempts to exceed the authority to download sensitive corporate information or any other violations, it is necessary to publicly analyze such incidents, and in some cases impose sanctions.
Good practice is also considered to be an annex to an employment contract when applying for a job, dedicated to information security in an organization, as well as the rights and obligations associated with it.When such a “code of honor” is updated, each employee is again obliged to subscribe to the listed corporate rules.
In general, the most disciplining and practical way out for organizing work with personnel to comply with information security rules is to regularly conduct internal corporate events on strictly defined dates. These may include training and analysis of new network threats (for example, analysis of received phishing emails, recommendations for recognizing fake sites, ways to “train” spam filters, etc.).etc.).
“Psychological weapons” at the enterprise
So, a worthy adversary to any internal threat is an effective information security policy, and not the one gathering dust in the administrator’s closet, but a really working, convenient and understandable document for employees with varying degrees of qualifications. This is especially important, for example, for a secretary, who in 90% of cases will not think about leaving his workplace in the presence of an outsider, and may well leave his computer with documents open on it unattended.
But if the security policy contains a clear and unambiguous rule on this matter, be sure that the secretary will remain in his place or, at least, will lock the computer.
Company employees must understand the degree of responsibility that they take upon themselves by putting their signature under the line “I am familiar with the information security policy”, and accept the inevitability that the violator will be found. From this point of view, the use of some alienable medium, which not only correlates with the user, but which the user himself relates to himself, taking as a personal thing, seems to be the most effective.And not only from a technological, but also from a psychological point of view, which is much more important for preventing internal threats.
First, the employee perceives such a device as his property, which only he can use. Secondly, passing the authentication procedure every day when accessing the network, he realizes that from that moment on, all actions performed “on behalf of” this token are his actions.
Thirdly, in the event of violations, unauthorized activity or an attack carried out using this hardware device, it is he who will be found guilty – the owner of this token.Agree, this is a good motivation not to exceed your authority and not to commit illegal actions on the network.
In conclusion, we note that increasing the user’s personal responsibility, the possibility of identifying the culprit and proving his involvement in one or another illegal action within the framework of an official investigation is the very psychological barrier on the way to committing an illegal action.
Realizing this is an important step to reduce and sometimes completely prevent internal threats to information security.Therefore, if you are thinking about the prevention of insider actions, first of all, think about how to achieve a responsible attitude to corporate values, the main of which is information.
90,000 Seattle have deliberately amassed a weak lineup in the expansion draft. The club hopes to take on cool free agents
It’s too early to write off the Kraken as an outsider.
Insiders leaked the Sielt roster in advance
Canadian insiders have seriously spoiled the mood of their fellow TV workers.They wanted to make a rating show from the NHL expansion draft, in which the new seat of the league, Seattle, assembled the squad. Frank Seravalli, Elliott Friedman and other informed journalists published the future Kraken roster on their Twitter accounts as agreements were concluded between the club and the hockey players. Already in the middle of yesterday, Seattle’s player pool was almost completely known.
Sounds like the three goaltenders selected by #SeaKraken will be Chris Driedger (FLA), Vitek Vanecek (WSH) and Joey Daccord (OTT).
@DFOHockey
— Frank Seravalli (@frank_seravalli) July 21, 2021
As well as the fact that the general manager of the Kraken, Ron Francis, failed to agree on a contract with the captain of the Colorado, Gabriel Landeskog.He entered the free agent market and is one of his main lots.
The priority for the Swede remains a new contract with Avalanche, which took him under the second number back in 2011. For him, it is practically his own club. In addition, Colorado has been in the group of contenders for the title over the past seasons, so Landeskog is ready to give the club a certain discount.
Gabriel Landeskog / Photo: © Michael Martin / Contributor / National Hockey League / Gettyimages.ru
The final roster of Seattle has disappointed many – there are absolutely no big names in it.On the eve of the draft, it became known that Francis will not take away either Vladimir Tarasenko, who wants to leave St. Louis, or the goalkeeper of Montreal, Carey Price. So the Canadiens general manager Marc Bergevin can be pleased – his trick of deliberately abandoning the defense of the main goalkeeper was a success. Well, the roster “Kraken”, which included 30 players, looks like this:
Goalkeepers : Chris Dridger (Florida), Joey Daccor (Ottawa), Vitek Vanechek (Washington).
Defenders: Jeremy Lozon (Boston), Will Borgen (Buffalo), Dennis Cholowski (Detroit), Cale Fleury (Montreal), Gavin Bairuter (Columbus), Vince Dunn (Saint Louis “), Jamison Oleksyak (Dallas), Carson Sousi (Minnesota), Adam Larsson (Edmonton), Haydn Fleury (Anaheim), Curtis McDermid (Los Angeles), Mark Giordano ( “Calgary”).
Forwards: Yanni Gourd (Tampa), Jared McCann (Toronto), Morgan Geekey (Carolina), Nathan Bastian (New Jersey), Jordan Eberle (Islanders), Colin Blackwell ( Rangers), Carsen Twarinsky (Philadelphia), Brandon Tanev (Pittsburgh), Tyler Pitlik (Arizona), Yoonas Donskoy (Colorado), John Kenneville (Chicago), Calle Yernkrook (Nashville “), Mason Appleton (Winnipeg), Alexander Truet (San Jose), Cole Lind (Vancouver).
Seattle was saving with the junior draft and free agency market in mind
It’s worth noting that Seattle had a number of conditions in the Expansion Draft.Francis had to choose at least 14 forwards, nine defenders and three goalkeepers. At the same time, at least 20 players must have a contract for the upcoming season, and the total value of their contracts must be at least 60 percent of the salary ceiling set at $ 81.5 million.
According to Capfriendly, the Kraken has almost 29 million funds left after the Expansion Draft. Therefore, the current lineup of Seattle can hardly be considered final.
https: // twitter.com / SeattleKraken / status / 1418036509748260867? s = 20
Keep in mind that this team will be the second pick in the upcoming draft on July 23-24. So the Kraken may well get the talented Swedish striker William Eklund or the tough center Mason McTavish for years to come, although there certainly may be other options. The same Luke Hughes is capable of becoming a franchise player in the defensive line.
Insiders report that Seattle plans to work closely on the free agent market.With the cash on hand under the salary cap, the Kraken are likely to compete for seasoned defenders Ryan Suter, Alec Martinez and Keith Yendl, as well as Doug Hamilton, who is looking for a big deal.
Doug Hamilton and Andrey Svechnikov / Photo: © REUTERS / James Guillory-USA TODAY Sports
There are also plenty to choose from in offense. Kyle Palmieri, Tyler Bozak, Mike Hoffman, Mikael Granlund – all these guys are suitable for reinforcement in the second or third link. If the fourth line needs to be cemented, the Kraken must urgently come to an agreement with Casey Sizikas, as the Islanders dream of leaving him.
The composition is not so weak, if you look closely
It is unlikely that Seattle will try to strengthen the goalkeeper line, although, again, there are options on the market: Philip Grubaer and Peter Mrazek. But the “Kraken” has long been targeting Chris Dridger, who showed great numbers in “Florida” and at some point outplayed Sergei Bobrovsky. It is he who should become the first number of the team.
Chris Dridger / Photo: © Icon Sportswire / Contributor / Icon Sportswire / Gettyimages.ru
Vitek Vanechek as Dridger’s main competitor also raises no questions.He has a penny salary (caphit 716.667 thousand dollars) and an expiring contract, which in case of failure can not be renewed. Although in Washington, the Czech showed that he is a talented guy, confidently clinging to his chances at the base.
On the defense, Kraken saved a lot, but at the same time formed the top 4: Mark Giordano, Jeremy Lozon, Jamie Oleksyak and Adam Larsson. Stylistically, these guys are compatible with each other, they can be used in different combinations. And the most experienced 37-year-old Giordano is the main contender for the captain’s patch.
Mark Giordano / Photo: © Gerry Thomas / Contributor / National Hockey League / Gettyimages.ru
Nevertheless, reinforcement in the line of defense for Seattle is necessary. It seems that Francis will sign at least one defense player from the free agent market. The versatile Martinez can fit very coolly into this company.
The attack looks gray due to the lack of big names, but it is worth taking a closer look at. There are collected players with very good functionality. Let’s say Gurd is one of the best two-way forwards in the league, who has a great shot in the minority, flies into fast breaks and has positional discipline in his own zone.McCann is an all-rounder capable of covering multiple positions. Can run in the third link or center the top end.
Jordan Eberle / Photo: © Bruce Bennett / Staff / Getty Images Sport / Gettyimages.ru
Eberle was taken on the role of the main sniper. He is in better health than Tarasenko, and at the same time his contract is two million cheaper. Jernkruk, Pitlik and Tanev are guys who are ready to rush energetically in the lower ranks and at the same time consistently score 10-15 goals per season. They will be the basis on which the Kraken attack will be built.
Plus, working in the free agent market should bring some gain. At the same time, much will depend on the choice of Seattle in the draft. It is definitely premature to write off the Kraken as an outsider.
Read also:
Insider: Statistics
In previous materials, we shared the data of our research and talked about the information risks that await in 2018. As it turned out, the most relevant for companies is the “internal threat” – the conscious or unconscious actions of the personnel, and I would like to dwell on this topic in more detail.Thanks to a survey conducted by Crowd Research Partners, it is possible to compile a very vivid characterization of the average “insider” and assess the real threat from his actions to the business.
According to the analysis, more than 90% of organizations feel themselves insufficiently protected from the actions of a “mole”, and 53% have learned from their own experience what its life can lead to. For comparison, in Russian companies, an employee was the cause of information leakage in 55% of cases.
47% of the respondents believe that the danger comes from employees who harm purposefully.And 51% are sure: you need to be afraid of employees who carelessly handle valuable data. 2% have not decided yet.
While the owners of Russian companies see the “root of evil” in freelancers, whom they habitually distrust, foreign leaders are not so unambiguous. According to them, in 56% of cases the leak is caused by office “white collars”. In 46% – remote workers in aggregate with contractors-organizations providing various types of services.
More than half of the respondents believe that the greatest threat is posed by system administrators, who have the most complete access to valuable information.And about 30% are not sure about TOP managers. Russian businessmen also have doubts about middle and top managers, like their Western colleagues, but more than 90% trust sysadmins.
The distribution of priorities in the protection of information is also interesting. In the Russian Federation, it looks like this: customer information (78%), new developments and intellectual property (70.4%), legal and financial documentation (66.7%), logins and passwords (51.9%), personal data of employees (18.5%). Foreign colleagues have a cardinally different “list of leaders”:
- Logins and passwords – 52%;
- Information about clients – 49%;
- Intellectual property – 32%;
- Personal data of employees – 31%;
- Information on internal infrastructure – 27%.
Phishing – has united all continents. 67% of respondents believe that it is the “letters of happiness” and the rash reactions of employees that lead to the leakage of trade secrets. In addition, the staff independently facilitates the work of intruders, thanks to:
- 56% – weak passwords. It’s no secret that the leader in the list of creative access codes is still “12345”;
- 44% – disregard for the means of protecting PCs and mobile devices with additional authentication systems;
- 44% – transfer of access codes to third parties.
What makes an insider’s actions successful?
- 37% think too many people in the company have access to important information.
- 36% blame a large number of mobile and computer devices connected to the internal network.
- 31% – admit that the staff is not sufficiently trained and trained.
90 120 35% – sin on complex modern technologies in which they do not understand.
90 120 34% – claim that every year there is more and more valuable information, and it is simply impossible to keep track of it.
According to 27% of business owners, the frequency of information leaks due to the actions of insiders increases every year, as well as losses from their actions. The potential damage from such incidents in US dollars is estimated by the respondents:
- 27% – from 100 thousand to 500 thousand;
- 3% – 2 million or more.
- The rest have not yet decided on the calculation of the damage.
90 120 16% – less than 100 thousand;
90 120 12% – from half a million to a million;
90 120 9% – 1-2 million;
73% of organizations have already implemented systems to maximize their security. At the moment, the leaders are DLP, personnel monitoring complexes and data encryption programs. It is noteworthy that half of the companies that have implemented digital control tools additionally use biometric access and user identification systems.
To be continued …
Nokia X20 and Nokia X10 will be with 5G, but with a weak
processor
Nokia has updated the Nokia 6310 phone
In addition to the Nokia XR20 and C30 smartphones, HMD Global has also unveiled a reboot of the legendary classic Nokia 6310 phone.New fashion …
Images have appeared Nokia XR20
HMD Global announces the release of the rugged phone on July 27th. It was rumored that the company would unveil a mid-range phone called the Nokia XR20. St …
The flagship Nokia 10 will be released soon
The Chinese technology site IT Home claims to have heard from the head of HMD Global the release date of the new flagship of the Nokia brand. According to this info…
Nokia 1.3 smartphone has been updated to Android 11
HMD Global has begun distributing the update to Android 11 Go for the budget smartphone Nokia 1.3, which was originally run by A…
The Nokia C30 smartphone is priced at € 100
HMD Global has expanded its range of affordable smartphones with the Nokia C30, the main feature of which is a 6000 mAh battery. New …
Declassified the first tablet Nokia
HMD Global will release the first tablet under the Nokia brand. This is the NokiaMob edition. Information about the future device was seen on the website of one and …
Nokia C30 will receive a 6000 mAh battery
Network sources have published images of an inexpensive smartphone Nokia C30, which has not yet been officially presented.Note the wide scope around di…
Nokia accuses Oppo of patent infringement
Nokia has filed numerous patent infringement complaints against Oppo. They figure as patents that are key to certain…
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Nokia has updated the legendary 6310 phone Nokia is returning the classic 6310 to the store shelves.It received an updated design and modern features. The old Nokia 6310 had a tiny …
Nokia XR20 smartphone received 5G support HMD Global has expanded its range of rugged smartphones with the Nokia XR20 model, which has received protection in accordance with the American standard …
Online leaked images Nokia XR20 HMD Global should very soon, on July 27, officially announce its new secure smartphone, about which there have been so many rumors on the Internet.Earlier…
Review of Nokia XR20: protected on all fronts Now there are little protected gadgets, especially under well-known brands. So Nokia XR20 immediately attracts attention. This armored sm …
Crisis in Italy could overshadow Brexit – RT in Russian
While the public is discussing the consequences of Brexit, a new threat to European unity may come from another country. The economic and political crisis in Italy is a ticking time bomb, writes Business Insider.According to the author of the article, the constitutional referendum, which will be held in the country this year, is no less dangerous than the vote on Britain’s exit from the EU.
Economic indicators, banking problems, a constitutional referendum – all this speaks of the crisis situation in Italy, which could have consequences for the whole of Europe. In a referendum, the Italians will vote on reforms that, if approved, will change the principle of forming the upper house of parliament and concentrate power in the hands of the deputies of the lower house.
“Probably the biggest risk in the European political landscape this year, besides the UK,” Citi analysts quoted Business Insider as saying.
Should Italians vote for reforms, Prime Minister Matteo Renzi will be able to push laws that will improve the country’s economic competitiveness. Voting against reforms could lead to the disintegration of the Renzi government and a political crisis.
“If the referendum fails, we expect the collapse of the Renzi government.Forming a stable government majority before or after the new elections can be an incredibly serious problem, even by Italian standards, ”quoted Deutsche Bank analysts’ message to clients.
According to the estimates of the General Confederation of Italian Industry, if the reforms are not approved, the country will face a recession, capital flight and new debts.
Now Italy is faced with the problem of bad loans, which forced the government to create a fund to help weak banks in the amount of about € 5 billion.At the same time, the oldest Italian bank Monte Paschi has such loans for € 47 billion.The ECB demands to reduce this amount by € 8 billion by the end of 2017. In total, Italy has overdue loans of € 300 billion, and its debt is 140% of GDP, the newspaper recalls.
According to the source, Renzi is ready to protect the financial system, even if it fails to get help from the EU.
“We are ready to do everything that is necessary (to protect the banks. – RT ), and we do not exclude that we will act unilaterally, although this will only be so as a last resort,” the publication quotes a source familiar with the situation …
How to set up Dota 2 for a weak computer
Contents of the article:
DotA is becoming more and more demanding on the hardware with each update.
Each time Valve add more and more different animations, improve the appearance of everything in general. But gamers who can’t afford a powerful PC are the last thing Valve thinks about.
So we have to adjust, tweak the settings, use low-resolution textures and dodge in every possible way to play our favorite game.
So, in this article we will squeeze everything out of Dota to make it as playable and playable as possible on our piece of scrap metal on a weak PC.
Hello grafodrocheram. And right away for now. Now it will be tough, you can forget about high-resolution textures and all sorts of squirrels and other living creatures running around the map.
Let’s go.
First of all, we set up the video card by setting all possible items in the settings panel to “Performance” or “Performance” .I am not going to go into the details of customizing the various views right now. This has already been written millions and thousands of times before me. Know how to use Google.
We go further.
It’s time to configure Windows.
Here it is short: cut out all the effects and animations that you can. Also, turn off all unnecessary processes.
Now setting the startup parameters.
-high -d3d9ex + dota_embers 0 + autoexec.cfg
Don’t ask what it is. Just insert into the line with the launch parameters for Dota.
If you do not know where it is and what it is, then welcome to our previous article on the problems with FPS in Reborn. This article is partially similar to the one, but here we are talking specifically about weak PCs.
Now config Autoexec.
It is assumed that you know where to throw it.
It should contain the following:
con_enable 1
rate 80000
cl_updaterate 40
cl_cmdrate 40
cl_interp 0.05
claptio 1 cl_globallight_shadow_mode 0
r_deferrer 0
r_deferred_height_fog 0
r_screenspace_aa 0
gpu_level 0
cpu_level 0
r_deferred_specular 0
r_deferred_specular_bloom 0
dota_portrait_animate 0
r_deferred_additive_pass 0
r_deferred_simple_light 0
r_renderoverlayfragment 0
r_shadowrendertotexture 0
r_WaterDrawReflection 0
r_ssao 0
mat_vsync 0
mat_triplebuffered 0
rate 80000
cl_cmdrate 31
cl_interp 0.01
cl_interp_ratio 1
cl_lagcompensation 1
cl_pred_optimize 2
cl_smooth 1
cl_smoothtime 0.01
cl_updaterate 31
cl_spectator_cmdrate_factor 0.5
cl_spectator_interp_ratio 2
dota_set_avatar 9
dota_force_right_click_attack 1
500 dota_minimap_hero_size dota_embers 0
0 dota_disable_range_finder developer 0
3 dota_hud_healthbars dota_sf_game_end_delay 0
0 glow_outline_effect_enable
Retaining configuration, go to Dot. Before starting, make sure that your browser is not running and that all unnecessary windows are closed.
Setting in the game.
Everything is simple and clear here – we put EVERYTHING to the minimum. In general, everything.
Yes, it will look creepy, but if otherwise, it will most likely provide you with at least playability.
