The feature length spin-off and prequel to the 2010 hit 'Despicable Me'.

Throughout history, and before Gru, the Minions have served many a despicable master, including Genghis Khan, Napoleon and Dracula. But having contributed to their masters' downfalls through a series of mishaps, the Minions find themselves living in Antarctica with no one to serve. A number of years pass and it isn't until 1968 that dispirited Minions Kevin, Stuart and Bob set off to New York City to attend a villain convention and find themselves a new master.

Here they meet the ambitious and dastardly Scarlet Overkill, who, with the help of her husband Herb, plans to take over the world...

Comedy starring Kevin James as Paul Blart, a good-natured, quiet-living man working as a security guard at a shopping mall having failed in his ambition to become a state trooper owing to his weight problem. When a gang of criminals disguised as Santa's helpers put the mall under siege and take hostages - including Paul's young daughter Maya (Raini Rodriguez) and the long-time object of his affections, Amy (Jayma Mays) - Paul takes matters into his own hands and becomes the unlikely hero of the day.

In Show Thyself a Man, Gregory Mixon explores the ways African Americans in postbellum Georgia used the militia as a vehicle to secure full citizenship, respect, and a more stable place in society. As citizen-soldiers, black men were empowered to get involved in politics, secure their own financial independence, and publicly commemorate black freedom with celebrations such as Emancipation Day. White Georgians, however, used the militia as a different symbol of freedom-to ensure the postwar white right to rule. This book is a forty-year history of black militia service in Georgia and the determined disbandment process that whites undertook to destroy it, connecting this chapter of the post-emancipation South to the larger history of militia participation by African-descendant people through the Western hemisphere and Latin America.

The population of English language learners has substantially grown over the years. As such, it is increasingly important to properly educate culturally diverse students in such a manner that promotes inclusion and global acceptance. Intercultural Responsiveness in the Second Language Learning Classroom is an essential reference source for the latest research on the importance of multicultural professional development for the progression of educating a diverse student population. Featuring expansive coverage across a broad range of topics such as cultural bias, self-identity, and language programs, this publication is ideally designed for academicians, researchers, and students seeking current research on methods to solve the cultural incongruence between student and teacher.

Growing up in middle Georgia during the 1950s and 1960s, author Clayton Mixon endured his share of struggles. Money wasn't easy to come by, and with the tragic death of his father, Clayton wondered how their small family would survive. Yet survive they did; he went on to a successful career in banking and eventually served as pastor for several Georgia churches. "Small Feet Walking in Big Shoes" details Clayton's remarkable rise from poverty to success. From the lean days when, as a nine-year-old, he sold peanuts at McSwain's Barbership for extra cash to his brief stint in the Coast Guard during the Vietnam War, Clayton shares memories of trying to find his niche in life. But he also vividly shows how the hand of God guided him through the years. After he met his future wife, Kathy, things started falling into place. Before he knew it, Clayton had a new job in the financial services industry and a new wife. Two children soon followed. As Clayton's family grew, so did his spiritual life. He began to dream of becoming a pastor and finally, in 1990, he surrendered to the call to ministry, becoming a pastor in 1994. "Small Feet Walking in Big Shoes" is a powerful, true story of how one man overcame adversity by placing his faith in God.

Most violent conflicts since the turn of this century were in countries that had experienced an earlier violent conflict. How can we tell when a country is likely to remain stuck in a cycle of violence? What factors suggest it might be "ripe" for stabilizing and peace building? The authors studied four cases: Chad is stuck in a cycle of violence, while El Salvador, Laos, and Mozambique have had different results in their transitions from violence to stability to peace. Conflicts without internal cohesion of combatants or pressure from foreign patrons to stop fighting are probably not ripe for stabilizing. Where there are subnational or regional actors committed to violence, post-conflict peace building is not likely to succeed without enforcement capacity to contain violence or demonstrated commitments to increasing political inclusion and making material improvements in the lives of residents.

The CSIS Working Group on Private-Sector Development in Fragile, Conflict-Affected, and Violent States identifies tools available to the international business community and the U.S. government to assist these countries, as well as the gaps in needed resources. Participants examined cases from Afghanistan, Iraq, Burma, and Liberia to glean examples of successes and failures in private-sector development, with the goal of identifying potential roles for host governments and the international private sector. This report presents the results of those discussions.

"Missing Voids: Road to Identity" details the life of Taiwan Mixon's road to refuge and self-discovery. Abandoned at birth, Taiwan spent much of his life at a crossroads fighting for fulfillment. From adoption to divorce to resentment and failures, Taiwan outlines the roadmap of overcoming different challenges that he faced. This memoir recounts the adversities of his childhood and transition to becoming a stand out on the college football field and as a successful entrepreneur meeting the likes of rapper Snoop Dogg Dog, NFL hall of famer Deion Sanders, Heisman trophy winner and NBA player Charlie Ward, rapper Lil Flip, NFL Hall of Famer Earl Campbell, NFL player Ed Oliver, NFL player Juju Smith-Schuster, and children from all over the world. As you travel through Taiwan's struggle of identity, purpose, and wholeness, may you score the same treasure of peace and completion that he has discovered.

Economists can use computer algebra systems to manipulate symbolic models, derive numerical computations, and analyze empirical relationships among variables. Maxima is an open-source multi-platform computer algebra system that rivals proprietary software. Maxima's symbolic and computational capabilities enable economists and financial analysts to develop a deeper understanding of models by allowing them to explore the implications of differences in parameter values, providing numerical solutions to problems that would be otherwise intractable, and by providing graphical representations that can guide analysis. This book provides a step-by-step tutorial for using this program to examine the economic relationships that form the core of microeconomics in a way that complements traditional modeling techniques. Readers learn how to phrase the relevant analysis and how symbolic expressions, numerical computations, and graphical representations can be used to learn from microeconomic models. In particular, comparative statics analysis is facilitated. Little has been published on Maxima and its applications in economics and finance, and this volume will appeal to advanced undergraduates, graduate-level students studying microeconomics, academic researchers in economics and finance, economists, and financial analysts.

"For You I Write - Journal" is the best way to document your progress in fulfilling God's purpose for your life. This is more than a diary, but a record of the your many wonderful memories. At the bottom of each odd numbered page, you'll find a unique scripture that reminds you of God's purpose for your life. For example, "Matthew 5:16 - Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven." Each even numbered page contains a simple reminder that "Today, I've decided to use my gifts for You." Write that book that God has put in you to write. Write that poem, that song, that business plan or simply take time to reflect on who you were designed to be. This 162 lined pages, 5.5" wide x 8.5" high, hardcover Spiritual Journal is durable and great for bible study, prayer, and devotional time. For More Information: kobaltbooks.com

"Power Of Purpose - Christian Spiritual Journal" is the best way to write your most intimate conversations with God or the inspirational words from the minister. Write words that remind you that God created you for a special reason. Each page contains a reminder that "Today, I've decided to learn what God wants me to know, so that I can do what He has designed me to do, in order to be who He has created me to be." This 160 lined pages, 5.5" wide x 8.5" high, hardcover Christian Spiritual Journal is durable and great for bible study, prayer, and devotional time.For More Information: ChristianSpiritualJournals.com or kobaltbooks.com

"Walk By Faith Christian Spiritual Journal" is the best way to write your most intimate conversations with God or the inspirational words from the minister. Write words that remind you that the steps of the righteous are ordered. Each page contains a reminder that "Today, Ive decided to close my eyes and trust that my Father is walking with me." This 160 lined pages, 5.5" wide x 8.5" high, hardcover Christian Spiritual Journal is durable and great for bible study, prayer, and devotional time. For More Information: ChristianSpiritualJournals.com or kobaltbooks.com

This volume is a welcome addition to an ever growing body of work in economic education. The chapters herein are sure to appeal equally to new and seasoned instructors. The often overlooked process of setting expectations is motivated through a fresh look at syllabus construction. A wide range of content areas are covered throughout the volume, with dedicated chapters on the Coase Theorem and tax evasion. Research chapters enhance our understanding of the acquisition of economic knowledge (through clicker use), the stock of economic and financial knowledge (and correlated factors), and how real and perceived economic and financial literacy influence opinions (related to the financial crisis). The depth and breadth of coverage on such important topics make this a must have volume.' - KimMarie McGoldrick, University of Richmond, US'This volume includes chapters extending and updating innovative teaching methods for undergraduate economics courses, as well as chapters with empirical research. Economic educators and general economists who are interested in teaching will therefore find something of interest and importance here.' - Michael Watts, Purdue University, US This innovative book offers targeted strategies for effectively and efficiently teaching economics at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. It provides professors and other teachers of economics various techniques to engage and retain the interest of students, and challenges them to apply both knowledge and methodological tools to a range of economic problems. Each chapter in this volume addresses a specific topic in the teaching of economics, with the overall goal of deepening students' understanding of economic reasoning and providing the tools required to apply that knowledge and insight to real-world problems. The contributors discuss a broad range of techniques and strategies, from syllabus creation to effective classroom demonstrations to the use of literature and film in illustrating economic principles, all of which provide fascinating insights and ideas for improving the overall quality of economics education. Teachers of economics at all levels particularly university and college professors - will find this book invaluable in their efforts to improve their teaching strategies and methods and provide high-quality economics education to future generations of scholars. Contributors: C.J. Asarta, Y. Bauman, S.A Beaulier, C. Blackwell, W.D. Bosshardt, R.B. Butters, A. Carden, R.J. Cebula, E. Chamlee-Wright, M. Foley, W. Geerling, T.G. Green, P.W. Grimes, J.C. Hall, M.R. Hammock, D. Hazlett, G.D. Mateer, F.G. Mixon Jr., A. Perumal, J.M. Potter, K.C. Rebeck, K.E. Rogers, P.J. Ruder, J.L. Scott, S.E. Skwire, L.J. Trevino, M.A. Vachris, W.B. Walstad, Z.X. Zygmont

"Breast Cancer Courageous - Christian Spiritual Journal" is the best way to write your most intimate conversations with God. Write words that give you strength. Write words that inspire you. Write words that give you clarity in knowing that God is by your side. Each page contains a reminder that "Be Strong and Courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go." - Joshua 1:9. This 160 lined pages, 5.5" wide x 8.5" high, hardcover Christian Spiritual Journal is durable and great for bible study, prayer, and devotional time. For More Information: ChristianSpiritualJournals.com or kobaltbooks.com

War Movies and Economics: Lessons from Hollywood's Adaptations of Military Conflict applies ongoing research in the relatively new genre of economics in popular media to Hollywood's war movies. Whether inadvertently or purposefully, these movies provide numerous examples of how economic principles often play an important role in military conflict. The authors of the chapters included in this edited collection work to illustrate economics lessons portrayed in adaptations such as Band of Brothers, Conspiracy, The Dirty Dozen, Dunkirk, Memphis Belle, Saving Private Ryan, Schindler's List, Spartacus, Stalag 17, and Valkyrie. Aspects of these stories show how key economic principles of scarcity, limited resources, and incentives play important roles in military conflict. The movies also provide an avenue for discussion of the economics of public goods provision, the modern economic theory of bureaucracy, and various game-theoretic concepts such as strategic moves and commitment devices. Where applicable, lessons from closely related fields such as management are also provided. This book is ideal reading for students of economics looking for an approachable route to understanding basic principles of economics and game theory. It is also accessible to amateur and professional historians, and any reader interested in popular culture as it relates to television, movies, and military history.

Public Choice Economics and the Salem Witchcraft Hysteria provides an economics perspective on the witchcraft episode, and adds to the growing body of work analyzing prominent historical events using the tools of economics.

Standards-Based Leadership is written specifically for superintendents and is framed within the most recent national standards: Professional Standards for Educational Leaders 2015. The cases provide an opportunity for superintendents, as well as those in training, to critically reflect on best-practices with real scenarios. Each chapter contains PSEL2015 standards, best practice literature, three cases, discussion questions, and additional resources. The chapters have been written by educators with leadership and superintendent experience.

Once the United States withdraws most or all of its forces from Afghanistan, what issues are likely to continue to be of concern to U.S. policymakers in South Asia? What regional dynamics are likely to affect their ability to achieve policy priorities there? While the United States and its coalition partners have focused primarily on Afghanistan and Pakistan over the past 12 years, the strategic dynamics most likely to be relevant over the next 12 years will probably be clustered around relationships linking Pakistan, India, and China. The authors of this report propose a framework for U.S. policy in South Asia centered around that cluster rather than the more common cluster of Afghanistan, Pakistan, and India. The report includes an analysis of U.S. policy priorities, contingencies, and regional dynamics in South Asia.

"Leap Of Faith - Christian Spiritual Journal" is the best way to write your most intimate conversations with God. Write words that inspire you to step out on faith and live God's Word. Each page contains a reminder that "Today, I've decided to step out on faith and leave the results to You."This 160 lined pages, 5.5" wide x 8.5" high, hardcover Christian Spiritual Journal is durable and great for bible study, prayer, and devotional time.For More Information: ChristianSpiritualJournals.com or kobaltbooks.com

Can the United States prevent or end conflicts and protect its interests without using military force? Do U.S. civilian institutions have the right mix of support, funding, and capabilities to respond to major crises and political transitions? In July 2013, CSIS raised these questions before more than 200 policymakers and experts, with 22 speakers offering perspectives from donors, implementers, and recipients. The demand for civilian power is high. U.S. leaders are under constant pressure to respond to armed conflicts abroad. Better civilian tools could help avoid more risky (and costly) military engagements. The past decade has seen real improvement in civilian stabilization and reconstruction capabilities. Yet many lessons of the past eight decades remain unlearned, and public support to civilian agencies remains low.

In development, stabilization, and peace building, donors increasingly recognize the importance of being sensitive to the local contexts of their efforts. Yet the use of "blueprints" remains widespread. Even when standard approaches are modified for particular aid partners, there often remains a poor fit between donor efforts and local conditions. When recipients cannot absorb the aid and attention they are offered, the common response is "capacity building." While it is true that many aid recipients do not have adequate capacity for implementation, this report presents the results of a case study demonstrating that some security and justice programs are designed and implemented without an adequate appreciation of local desires, resources, capabilities, and challenges. Absorptive capacity, in other words, is a byproduct of the donor-recipient relationship. An earlier study by the authors introduced a new framework for measuring absorptive capacity. This volume applies it to security and justice sector programs that did not meet all of their objectives in Lebanon, Cambodia, and Colombia.

When recipients cannot absorb the aid and attention they are offered, the common response is "capacity building"-as if the source of the problem is the recipient's implementation capacity. In this report, Robert D. Lamb and Kathryn Mixon present the results of their research on the sources of absorptive capacity. They find that this sort of "blaming the victim" mentality, while common, is not always justified. While it is true that many aid recipients do not have adequate capacity for implementation, it is equally true that many aid programs are designed and implemented without an adequate appreciation of local desires, resources, capabilities, and challenges. Absorptive capacity, in other words, is a byproduct of the donor-recipient relationship. The authors present a new framework for measuring absorptive capacity. This framework is intended to supplement existing planning, monitoring, and evaluation processes, offering a new way to test whether an existing approach is compatible with local conditions and a method for improving the fit.

Reaching and Teaching All Instrumental Music Students draws from credible research and established approaches to offer practical applications for the variety of music classrooms teachers face today, many of which are not ideal. Kevin Mixon shares successful techniques for recruiting and retention, garnering program support, teaching for diverse learning styles and exceptional students, classroom management, and teaching notation, composition, and improvisation. This expanded second edition adds practical advice on reading rhythm notation, teacher feedback, home visits, community building, and establishing positive relationships_with even the most challenging students. Mixon demonstrates that fostering respect and going the extra mile are rewarding for students, parents, and teachers alike.

Culturally relevant music can drive reform in urban education. Teaching Music in the Urban Classroom, Volume 1: A Guide to Survival, Success, and Reform opens a national-level conversation aimed at making that goal a reality. This first of two volumes addresses cultural responsivity, teaching strategies, and alternative teaching models. Contributors, who include classroom music teachers, inner city arts administrators, well-known academics, and policy-makers from across the United States and Canada, offer a full range of political, philosophical, and practical approaches to reaching kids in urban schools. These authors, whose voices are distinct and yet united, guide music educators at every level, motivating them to challenge tired assumptions, reconsider the issues, and transform their classrooms and their students. See also: Teaching Music in the Urban Classroom, Volume 2 ORDER BOTH VOLUMES 1 & 2 NOW AND SAVE! 1-57886-545-X $65.00 paper set / 1-57886-544-1 $130.00 cloth set

War Movies and Economics: Lessons from Hollywood's Adaptations of Military Conflict applies ongoing research in the relatively new genre of economics in popular media to Hollywood's war movies. Whether inadvertently or purposefully, these movies provide numerous examples of how economic principles often play an important role in military conflict. The authors of the chapters included in this edited collection work to illustrate economics lessons portrayed in adaptations such as Band of Brothers, Conspiracy, The Dirty Dozen, Dunkirk, Memphis Belle, Saving Private Ryan, Schindler's List, Spartacus, Stalag 17, and Valkyrie. Aspects of these stories show how key economic principles of scarcity, limited resources, and incentives play important roles in military conflict. The movies also provide an avenue for discussion of the economics of public goods provision, the modern economic theory of bureaucracy, and various game-theoretic concepts such as strategic moves and commitment devices. Where applicable, lessons from closely related fields such as management are also provided. This book is ideal reading for students of economics looking for an approachable route to understanding basic principles of economics and game theory. It is also accessible to amateur and professional historians, and any reader interested in popular culture as it relates to television, movies, and military history.