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Even a slight deterioration of any of your senses can be scary. Not only can it interfere with your safety and your ability to understand your surroundings, but also it can have a huge impact on your overall comfort and independence.
Still, as you age, some decline in your senses is expected. Eyesight is often one of the first senses affected by aging.
But you can minimize the impact of age-related vision loss on daily life, boost eye health in general, and reduce disease risk by monitoring vision changes, identifying problems, creating an eye-friendly environment, and adjusting your lifestyle habits and dietary choices.
How's your vision?
Your first step in protecting your eyes is to distinguish between vision changes that are due to normal aging processes and vision changes that may be signs of disease. Only a doctor can diagnose eye disease, so if you haven't been keeping a regular schedule of checkups, consider making an appointment today.
In the meantime, the quick test at the end if this article is a test many eye specialists give to help determine whether a person may be exhibiting signs of eye disease.
Normal age-related vision changes
Not all declines in vision quality are the result of disease; certain anatomical changes naturally occur as the eyes age.
The various internal and external structures of the eyes, which all work together to help people see clearly at various distances and under different lighting conditions, begin to wear down as people get older.
Common age-related vision complaints include:
- "I can't see as clearly as I used to."
- "I have difficulty seeing objects close up."
- "Colors don't seem as vivid."
- "It's getting more difficult to see in the dark."
- "I'm less able to adapt to glare."
- "I need more light to see."
The most significant age-related changes seem to occur in the lens and the pupil; these account for the majority of vision limitations people experience as they get older. The extent to which these changes affect vision varies a bit with each person. But regardless of the degree to which these changes affect you, you can compensate for them and help ensure they don't endanger your safety or make it difficult for you to enjoy life.
Age-related eye change #1
The pupil becomes smaller and less responsive to variations in light.
Impact: Because the pupil controls the amount of light that reaches the retina, age-related changes to the pupil may affect vision in many ways. First, as the pupil decreases in diameter, seeing well in dim light becomes harder. In addition, the less able the pupil is to adjust to varying light conditions, the less tolerable glare becomes and the more difficult it is to adapt from darkness to bright light or vice versa. This means as you get older, you may need more time to adjust to changing levels of illumination, such as going from bright sunshine into a dimly lit room or restaurant.
Compensation: Proper illumination can compensate for many of the changes in your pupil as you age. Try these illumination techniques:
- Increase the amount of ambient light throughout your home.
- Use individual lights — or task lighting — for specific tasks. Studies show that for specific tasks, the average 60-year-old person needs at least three times the amount of light compared with the average 20-year-old.
- Use timed lighting that switches on and off at set times of the day to ensure consistent ambient lighting.
- Install motion-sensor lights in your home that turn on automatically when you enter a room.
- Avoid bare bulbs, clear shades, and chandeliers without shades; these produce glare that can be disorienting and uncomfortable.
- Cover shiny, highly polished surfaces in the home or work areas with cloth or rugs to reduce glare.
Age-related eye change #2
The lens of the eye begins to lose elasticity.
Impact: In the same way that losing flexibility in tendons and muscles makes it more difficult for the body to move, losing lens elasticity also makes it harder for the lens to bend in order to focus on closely held objects. This loss of focusing power, or lens accommodation, is known as presbyopia.
Compensation: Investing in certain sight aids can help compensate for losses in up-close vision. Try these sight aids if you're having trouble seeing close up:
- See your eye specialist regarding corrective devices such as reading glasses, bifocals, trifocals, progressive lenses (no lines), or possibly contact lenses to help you correctly see objects at close proximity.
- Have your eyes rechecked and reading lenses adjusted every 2 or 3 years; changes in lens elasticity typically occur progressively between the ages of 45 and 65.
- Shine additional light on close work materials to enhance your near vision; lights with adjustable necks are best for directly targeting work.
- Consider simple, over-the-counter reading glasses for up-close work if you do not need corrective lenses to see distances. The typical range of magnification needed is from +1.00 to + 3.00. Choose a weaker glass for computer work or a stronger glass for reading.
Researchers are studying new surgical interventions and devices that could restore at least some amount of near vision. However, these techniques are experimental, and given the tendency of the eye structure to constantly change, the long-term success of such interventions is unknown.
Age-related eye change #3
The lens of the eye gradually yellows with age.
Impact: The yellowing of the eye lens affects color perception. For example, the yellowing lens tends to absorb and scatter blue light, making it difficult to see differences in shades of blue, green, and violet. Colors may seem duller, and contrasts between colors will be less noticeable. This may cause confusion when picking out clothes or performing other tasks that require color perception. It also may become difficult to tell where an object ends and its background begins, making it difficult to see curbs or steps, for example.
Compensation: A few specific adjustments to lighting and color choices should help alleviate the effects of minor lens yellowing. Try this:
- Choose halogen or fluorescent bulbs specifically designed to improve color rendering. Bulbs with a color-rendering index (CRI) above 80 may best help older eyes with color definition.
- Use warm contrasting colors, such as yellow, orange, and red, in your home to improve your ability to tell where things are and make it easier to perform daily activities.
- Put colored tape on the edge of steps to help make them easier to navigate.
Eventually, the underlying process that causes lens yellowing may lead to cataracts. Surgical procedures are available for people whose degree of vision impairment due to cataracts is severe enough to interfere with safety or quality of life.
Give your eyes a boost
Creating an eye-friendly environment is only the beginning of boosting your vision. Studies show that certain lifestyle habits and dietary choices may help protect the lens of the eye and reduce the risk of certain lens conditions that diminish sight.
For example, a study published in the American Journal of Nutrition reveals that a diet rich in vitamin C and foods containing plant pigments, or carotenoids, may help protect the lens of the eye and reduce the risk of cataracts. A lack of these nutrients appears to speed cross-linking, a process in which proteins in the lens form unwanted links or bonds, making the lens thicker, more rigid, scattering even more light than it would otherwise.
Carotenoids exhibit antioxidant properties. Examples include beta carotene, lycopene, and lutein. There is no recommended daily allowance for carotenoids, but you can get your fill by eating lots of produce. Carotenoid-rich foods include sweet potatoes, cantaloupe, spinach, tomatoes, kale, and mangoes. Aim for four servings of fruit and five servings of vegetables per day to help ensure you get the nutrients you need to maximize your eye health.
In addition to certain nutritional deficits, other lifestyle choices may speed up cross-linking and put lens health at risk. These include smoking and excessive exposure to UV rays from the sun.
What's not a normal part of aging
As you get older, it is very important to have regular eye examinations. Some eye changes may signal something more serious than age-related changes, such as an eye disease that needs medical treatment. Even if you are not experiencing eye symptoms, regular checkups are a must. Many eye diseases do not have warning symptoms but could be minimized or slowed with proper treatment. For example, although eye diseases such as macular degeneration, glaucoma, cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, and retinal detachment are often painless and the onset is gradual, they can greatly impair vision if not promptly treated.
During a doctor appointment, if you have or are suspected of having disorders affecting the retina, or if you are at risk for other eye diseases such as glaucoma, you may be given an Amsler eye test.
Visual limitations can be addressed
With age, almost everyone's vision deteriorates to some degree. Fortunately, there are several ways to lessen the impact of age-related eye changes. Making up for vision losses, no matter how big or small, is very important. If ignored, even mild visual impairment can lead to problems ranging from feelings of depression and social isolation to injuries from falls.
By addressing any age-related vision troubles as they arise and making the necessary adjustments to your surroundings or lifestyle, you should be able to continue enjoying an active, productive, and independent life.
If you have an eye condition that is due to disease, keep in mind there are probably many effective medical treatments available to ease its impact. The key is getting a diagnosis as soon as possible to learn about your options.


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Miley Cyrus has been banned from 'twerking' on 'The X Factor'.
The 'Wrecking Ball' singer has been given strict instructions to ditch the raunchy dance move - which involves her bouncing her bottom up and down - in favour of a "family-friendly" performance when she takes to the stage on the ITV talent show next week .
And in case you forgot about THAT performance
A source told the Daily Mirror newspaper: "There will be no suggestive bum wriggles or crotch grabbing."
Fears that Miley's antics might be too hot for prime-time TV come after her controversial performance at the MTV VMA Awards in August in which she stripped down to a skin-coloured latex bikini before grinding against Robin Thicke during his rendition of 'Blurred Lines'.
'X Factor' previously came under fire when Rihanna's performance on the 2010 final sparked several complaints, while Christina Aguilera's sexy routine to promote her film 'Burlesque' was deemed too risqué for the pre-watershed time slot of 8pm.
Meanwhile, Gary Barlow will reportedly perform with Sir Elton John during the 'X Factor' final.
The talent show judge is said to have planned a special performance with the 'Candle In The Wind' hitmaker on the ITV show's grand final on December 15 at Wembley Arena.

subset: commoncrawl


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Video Game Series a Design Marathon
by Carl Kozlowski
Atomic Imaging designers are intensely cramming what is normally a one-year cycle for a game into six months of work.
The game they're working on-the third in a series of five-isn't the usual Nintendo 64 entertainment fare.
The "Earobics" series is an educational product designed to check and build children's auditory skills. Speech pathologists use it to work with the learning disabled, explains Atomic's head man, Ari Golan. It is geared for schools and therapists at the professional level and sells for several hundred dollars.
Atomic Imaging has worked with Cognitive Concepts of Evanston, led by president Jan Wasowicz, since the company was launched two years ago to produce specialized "Earobics" CD-ROM games.
The second product Atomic created has received "all sorts of recognition and applause from the community and at trade shows," says Golan. "Industry speakers use it as an example of how games should be structured and note the quality of the content."
Guided by lead designer Jim Abreau, 16 staffers, including eight artists and five programmers, are devising the five games.
Backgrounds, 3D and interface are done simultaneously. The programmers take the artwork generated and put it into the functional design. The game goes into field testing with representatives from target audiences. "We closely study testing results," adds Golan, "address bugs and viewer feedback. After changes, the game then goes into a final round and finally, a golden master and duplication."
Each "Earobics" game, focusing on a different aspect of hearing, is created primarily with Electric Image and Aftereffects and the Organica metaballs modeler. Players are presented with choices and dictate the outcome of the game and its respective 3D interfaces through their responses.
After reaching certain levels, users receive "payoff" 3D animations related to the interface theme as animal and human characters speak to the children.
The third "Earobics" has an October completion date. Cognitive Concepts will release an unspecified number of games to schools and speech pathologists and specialized retail outlets.
Atomic Imaging was split into a separate department six years ago, although "it was around longer than that" as a function of 13-year old Golan Productions Inc., says Golan
"We are very diversified in Web development, computer-based training, corporate sales and marketing and Webcasting of live concerts over the Internet," he says of Atomic.
Atomic is a Mac shop, although it has PCs and NT workstations-"they're in the minority and are here by necessity not by choice," says Golan. Main tools used are Electric Image, Adobe Effects, Media 100, Commotion and Macromedia Director authoring tools.
One of Atomic's current jobs is centered around the Real Motion physics-based animation program. Hired by a law firm representing major automakers, Atomic imagers recreate accidents caused by everything from poor road surfacing to excessive winds.
"We input the various data of road conditions and the vehicle specs across numerous categories, like wheel base and friction indexes, and Real Motion provides physics-based accurate depictions," Golan explains.
"We've provided demonstrative evidence before, it was always manual and we never had the benefit of a simulation program that could generate information for us."
Atomic Imaging is located at 1501 N. Magnolia, Chicago, 60622; phone, 312/649-1800.


text: Like title says, I'm about to buy a pair of Philips Fidelio X1 headphones with a V-MODA Shareplay cable, since almost every review on the X1 says that the stock cable makes it sound worse and it's only 3 dollars more than their regular 'Audio Only Cable' and I like the sharing feature, so I don't really see why not. I have a FiiO E07K for an amp since I already own a pair of high ohmage, was wondering if there's anything I should know or any suggestions you'd make before I purchase? (Just making this post because I can never be too safe.) P.S. I listen to a lot of house and electronic music.


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From September 20 to 25, 2016, Cologne is once again the center of the imaging world. Professionals, distributors and photographers come here to inform themselves about new products. Manufacturers, imaging experts and developers exchange ideas about exciting technologies. The team at Image Engineering invites you to visit us in Hall 4.1, Stand J038. Come and discuss the latest developments with our engineers and find out more about our products and services.
VCX Score: A comprehensive and objective evaluation for smartphone cameras
At photokina 2016, we are presenting the VCX Score for the first time. It allows the quick and easy image quality comparison of smart phones.
The quality of the built-in camera is an important selling point for smartphones and tablets. Consumers expect good picture quality as well as reliability and speed. Image Engineering determines all of these characteristics in extensive tests. The team at our photokina stand will be happy to explain how the VCX Score calculates and summarizes the results, and how a comprehensive and objective assessment makes it easier for consumers to directly compare the different cameras.
lensTESTER: Simply perform camera tests at home
Furthermore, we are presenting the lensTESTER, which can turn your living room into a test studio quickly and effectively.
With the combination of a test chart and an online-based analysis, photographers can easily perform camera tests in their own homes. At stand J038 in Hall 4.1, our team can show you, which positions and with which settings to use to photograph the specially developed test chart and upload the results to the report page at camtest.eu. The results of the analysis is then available in numeric and graphic form.
The latest innovations for professional image quality measurements will be on display at our stand.
For further information about the VCX Score and the lensTESTER, please download our product flyer:
english version | german version


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If you have been displaced and are qualified for jobs you apply for, but do not get hired:·
File discrimination with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC)
· File discrimination with Illinois Department of Human Rights: IDHR Chicago Office /James R. Thompson Center / 100 W. Randolph Street /Suite 10-100
· File discrimination with State Attorney General Office
Also in the Thompson Center (1 floor above IDHR)
· Continue to talk with by phone, in person or email anyone that has been displaced or terminated by CPS and provide them information about DARTS.
· Obtain an email addresses other than FirstClass
· Accumulate all information of prior job fairs, names of schools where you applied, the lists sent to Isadore Glover, any interviews that you secured and the responses (positive or negative) and place in a binder.
· Contact radio, newspapers, aldermen, church leaders, etc. regarding uncertified persons in teaching position and explain the waivers used to keep highly qualified teachers from those positions.
· Explain your position tactfully without anger because it is the children that are not reaping the benefits of having veteran teachers with experience and knowledge assigned to their classrooms.
· If after the 20th day you are requested elsewhere or switched to another school, or moved by sub center, this is EVIDENCE. (On the 21st day we can request placement in that position if we are qualified for that position.)
· Contact Colleen Dykus email@example.com 312 329 9100 and ask her what the status of our grievance is regarding CTU contractual rights as specified on page 99 (42.3), as well as Appendix H, that are being violated.
· Remember that the NCLB Act requires the most qualified teachers be placed in the classroom and that the Chicago Board of Education is not providing students with the most highly qualified.
· For additional information contact Toni Barnes 773 746 1051 or 773 488 3076 and Ann Cata 773-327-4953.
Toni Barnes communication with Attorney Diedre Baumann:
Christina Wodka, EEOC Investigator, would like to hear from everyone who believes that they are or have been a CPS victim of age discrimination. In your communication be sure to complete this form and fax it to: 312-886-1168. Her direct phone number is 312-353-1401. Remember, it is not about just you or me; it is about all of us. So, if you know of others, in our plight, please spread the word. The investigator only needs the information requested on this form. Click on file below.


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Top Five songs from Mad Men
You are more likely to have heard of Mad Men than watched it. The critically-lauded, multi award-winning show only gets about 250,000 viewers every week on BBC Four - but I can't recommend it highly enough.
Set in Manhattan's burgeoning advertising industry of the 1950s and 60s, the US drama series effortlessly invokes a bygone era of stiff drinks, elastic morals and freakishly pointy bras. The two main characters are Don and Betty Draper - a ridiculously handsome suburban couple with enough dark secrets to blot out the sun.
Thousands of column inches have been dedicated to the show's wit, panache and chic retro stylings - but precious little has been said about the programme's effortlessly evocative music.
The show's music supervisor is Alex Patsavas, formerly of The OC and Gossip Girl, a woman seemingly blessed with the world's most impeccable taste in music. From Mad Men's opening credits (a spiralling string arrangement over clattering percussion) to the bespoke soundtrack that accomapnies each week's credit reel, every soundbite is chosen with scientific precision.
Although the programme is set during an era of huge social upheaval for America (the civil rights movement, Vietnam, the teenage revolution), the music generally looks back to the more strait-laced songs of Johnny Mathis and Ella Fitzgerald... although that's beginning to change as the series drags us further into the 60s.
Each season has a flawless compilation CD, which generally unearths a handful of previously-unreleased classics. They're well worth the investment if you're a keen musical archivist.
To get you started, I've put together an entirely subjective list of my five favourite musical moments from the first four series. I'd love to hear your suggestions in the comments box, too.
1) Ernie Ford - Sixteen Tons.
This plays over the closing credits in the season three episode "Seven Twenty Three", where Don Draper finally agrees to sign a "no exceptions" employment contract with ad agency Sterling Cooper. The lyrics are, appropriately enough, about a debt-bonded coal miner who begs St Peter not to call him to heaven because "I owe my soul to the company store". Originally recorded by Merle Travis in 1946, this cover was a US number one in 1955.
2) Brenda Lee - Break It To Me Gently
There is uncomfortable, even visceral, tension in the air as the Drapers drive home in Don's brand new Coupe de Ville. Betty is confronting the possibility that Don has been unfaithful, after a well-lubricated cocktail party guest hints the ad-man bedded his wife. Repeatedly.
The stomach-churning betrayal, and a few too many glasses of champagne, combine to make the starch-stiffened housewife wretch into her lap. Cue the music: A wrenching, forlorn country ballad by a woman bracing herself for the "it's not you, it's me" speech.
3) Nashville Teens - Tobacco Road.
One of the rare Mad Men episodes that ends on a comedic up-beat is season four opener Public Relations. At the beginning of the show, Don gives a surly and taciturn interview to trade publication Advertising Age, resulting in a prickly profile that threatens the agency's reputation.
He stubbornly refuses to acknowledge his failure, but over the course of the next 45 minutes it dawns on him that he's a product worth selling, too. The uptempo music reflects his newfound confidence, while the Merseybeat groove of the Nashville Teens remind us that series four is taking place in 1964, right the middle of the British invasion spearheaded by The Beatles' infamous Ed Sullivan performance.
4) Rosemary Clonney - Botch-a-me
Another playful show closer, sung by the Queen of the Mambo herself, underscores a disastrous meeting between the advertising gurus and President Nixon's election campaign team. After the elevators fail, silver fox / functioning alcoholic Roger Sterling (pictured) has to run up 23 flights of stairs to make the appointment.
On arrival, he greets the presidential team and promptly vomits all over the floor. "He must have had a bad oyster," observes a Nixon man, before the advertising excutives regroup and Don sambas into the boardroom (well, he puts on an enigmatic smile, which is as close as Don Draper ever gets to a samba).
5) Patti Page - Old Cape Cod
Don's ex-wife-but-not-really, Anna Draper, takes him out to a bar with her niece Stephanie, who puts this song on a jukebox in an attempt to get the old fogies up for a dance. Anna declines, leaving Don to waltz with a radicalised, weed-smoking university student (presumably under a flashing neon sign reading: "look at how society changed in the 60s").
Stephanie admits choosing the song because it's dated. Don proves he's a fuddy-duddy by defending its wistfully romantic lyrics. There's a clever subtext for musically clued-in viewers, however, who know the song as the hook from Groove Armada's At The River. As the old advertising maxim goes, fashions never die, they just get repackaged.


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Dear Friends
Words fail me when I think about the glorious experience we had during the past few weeks. God was in total control, from the first moment we started planning this trip right through to the moment we all returned safely home, but it was by no means a predictable journey… Our best laid plans went awry, yet not our will but His perfect will was done in His way at His carefully appointed times.
We arrived safely home from our crusade having visited some of the most scenic, beautiful, wild and remote areas of Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Botswana, we met the most wonderful brothers and sisters in the Body, people who welcomed us with open hearts and arms and embraced us as part of their communities. Everywhere we went we were met with sincerity, kindness, joy and happiness and it was a crusade filled with healing, testimonies, miracles, and new beginnings. It is always challenging to try to express the plethora of experiences, emotions and wonder that accompanies a crusade such ours, the amazing miracles that are so humbling in its complex simplicity. God is truly good.
We are so privileged to have been able to participate in the outreach to Africa, to be of service to the Lord, even if it was merely to bring a smile of joy to the face of one of His children who needed it. Thank you once again for all your faithful prayers and donations. The need out there is huge and the hunger for the gospel is growing exponentially…. We would like to take the opportunity to say a big Thank You to everybody who have faithfully been sowing seed into Mount Zion Ministries. Your seed have brought the Word of God to so many who are now proud owners of their very own Bibles, something we tend to take for granted. We would also now like to give the following feedback to everybody, as many people sow their seed anonymously and we would like to show you where your seed is being planted and also take the opportunity to thank you all for your faithfulness and loyalty.
We met lovely children of God and as a team, we connected perfectly with everybody, and they with us, but the battle started before we even departed from Okahandja. Although the Body of Christ is surely coming into position now, to work together as a unit, there is still so much ignorance around the subject of spiritual warfare, how to do it and why it's necessary.
Thank you to all of you who stayed behind and kept us in prayer, covering and strengthening us spiritually. You are the power that drives the team, and without you it would not have been possible to do all that we have.
May you be blessed abundantly for your prayers, faithfulness and intercession.
Gert & Eleonor
(FRIDAY, 8 AUGUST 2013 through to SUNDAY, 24 AUGUST 2014)
What a privilege it was once again to have been part of the outreach into Southern Africa. The air was ripe with so much promise…. After many months of planning and preparation, the day had finally arrived. We were going on the 2014 Bibles for Africa outreach to complete the mandate that God had given to Mount Zion Ministries in 2012 (the distribution of a 1,000 Bibles in Southern Africa). Our planned routes had been changed so many times that we did not think we might still go to Zambia and Zimbabwe. But God opened the right doors and changed our plans in order to fit His perfect Plan.
On Friday, 8 August, all the team members met in Okahandja at Gert & Eleonor's home, and shared a lovely dinner whilst getting to know each other. We also celebrated Sakkie's birthday … A team of 9 who had met the previous evening… people from different walks of life and parts of the country, set out on a journey of hope. Gert & Eleanor from Mount Zion Ministries, Frans & Martha – cattle farmers from the Waterberg near Otjiwarongo towards the North, Sakkie & Lenita – sheep farmers from Bethany in the South, Susan from Aroab in the deep South, Lynette & Nadine from Johannesburg & Pretoria in South Africa.
After a delicious, warm cup of coffee & Susan's yummy rusks, the backbone of any travelers' journey, we left Okahandja for the Kavango in the early hours of a beautiful sunny Saturday, with crisp morning air filling our lungs, the vehicles and trailer all packed to the brim and ready to go. Our resident miracle worker, Frans, packed the truck and trailer with such amazing resourcefulness, that we could not believe that everything fitted in, and would fit in again every time he re-packed the truck and trailer…
Another cup of deliciously brewed coffee in Otjiwarongo set the tone for our journey. We lost Frans as he experienced a problem with one of the wheels on his vehicle, but it was worth the wait despite the time it took as we didn't plan on having any breakdowns on our journey into Africa. For those of you who have been involved in planning a project of this magnitude, you would know how both costly and time consuming it is. We had broken bread together and shared communion, asking God to protect us on our journey and guide our every step of the way. We could feel the spiritual battle raging around us from the time we left Okahandja, and it proved to be a test we had to withstand, we have also subsequently realized that the Body does not know how to test the spirits.
To test the spirit you have to know the Spirit, in order to be able to discern when you are dealing with the wrong spirits. You have to test the spirit against the one true Spirit. Without discernment, you'll follow blindly, not knowing where you are being led to, a very dangerous spiritual situation to be in and the fastest route to deceit and disillusionment for a new Christian. It is only once you are in the spiritual battle that you start to realize the importance of those who are left behind praying, interceding and looking after the baggage in our absence. Spiritual warfare is not for the faint-hearted. It is a dangerous place to stand around naked and unprotected, you are a perfect target for destruction when you are left exposed. We could feel the tugging of conflict, the constant subtle attacks to divide and conquer our little team of soldiers. Our enemy is not very original or innovative, it's just that he knows that as in the days of Noah, ignorance of both the Word and our role and responsibility to rule over creation, still permeates the world today. Unfortunately we were no exception. Not all of those left behind understood the brief and the importance of standing in the gap for us…
We were finally on our way. The thrill and excitement of being a part of such a group of selected people to do our Father's work can never be fully explained or understood by anyone until you have had the privilege to be a part of the sum of many. Watching the then familiar dry landscape passing us by we were still caught up in our own thoughts and mulling over the time ahead. Otjiwarongo signaled a coffee break. .. The fuel station had some of the most divine filtered coffees that hits the spot perfectly.
Frans had discovered a slow puncture in the one front tyre and it was best to have it resolved and fixed before we really got underway with our journey. We also had some time for a couple of last minute purchases before continuing on our journey. We found a beautiful, shady big Manjadi / Diospyros Mespiliformis / Jackalberry / African Ebony / Jakkalsbessieboom along the way under which we had our brunch, soaking in the sounds of nature whilst communing with God. The trip was a mere 800 km to the Kavango – a long haul on an insanely straight stretch of road that stretched out before us…. kilometer after kilometer.
Just outside Rundu we met up with Hesmarie, where she was enjoying the last light of sunset on the back of her truck, playing her guitar, praising and worshiping while soaking in the beauty and peace of the bush-veld. Looking for game along the way, the warthogs and monkeys did not disappoint. The buck was scarce but there was more veld than last year, which bode well for the game. Last year many of the animals came right onto the roadside in search of food and they were thin and almost gaunt from hunger but this year they were well fed and glossy which was such a blessing to see.
Our arrival at the Kavango was late at night and our camping grounds were covered in the dark blanket of the night, with no moon to guide us. It was quite a challenge to set up camp in the dark but we managed well. On Sunday morning, after a quick breakfast and our coffee and rusks, we packed up camp and departed the Kavango to Katima Mulilo on the banks of the great Zambezi river. We camped at the Protea Hotel. Not such a long stretch, but a good sit nonetheless.
On arrival there, we set up camp, and then we went for dinner at the Baobab Restaurant with Elda and Janneman, a treat for the taste buds and a wonderful celebration of life with friends. These reunions with our brothers and sisters in Christ really strengthens the bonds of family and purpose. The men spent Monday morning getting the paperwork sorted out for all our vehicles and the trailer, in order to provide for our proposed visit to Zambia and Zimbabwe. In the afternoon we went to visit Travis and Lorna at the Mount Zion Village Orphanage, we met them on our trip last year. They have about 55 little mites, 3 babies, a little girl and twin boys. What precious people, both the adults and the children.
Then we met up with Linda again (from Mahahe last year) as she is now based in Katima Mulilo and moving like a fresh breeze through the community, especially with her focus on Taxis for Jesus. It's so nice to connect with all the links that were previously made and we are amazed every time we realize just how perfectly God planned every connection we made the last time.
Upon entering Zambia on Tuesday morning, once we had cleared customs successfully and confirmed we weren't infected with the dreaded Ebola, we looked around for a nice camping spot, and eventually spotted a perfect Baobab set slightly off the road, with a beautiful view of the valley spread out beneath it and the river curving in a broad silver stroke through the valley below. We took out our brunch and enjoyed it whilst savoring the scenery, kids from further down in the valley had seen us pull off, and they came running up with such joyous abandon only to see what we were busy doing. Hesmarie started playing games with them and they had such fun, running around and crowing with laughter. Sharing the gospel one game at a time.
We arrived at Gavin and Penny Johnson's lodge later in the day, having taken a slow cruise to enjoy the sights and sounds. Gavin was off on a fishing trip about 600 km away, but Penny and the girls were keeping the fort. Penny home schools their 3 young daughters. They are approximately 40 km from the Namibian border, or 60 km from Katima Mulilo, or 600 km from Livingstone. So if they want to shop, they can choose between Katima Mulilo and Livingstone. They have stunning tented camps available for visitors with views to die for, and we camped on a secluded part of the property in the heart of nature, with no electricity, which was a rather overwhelming experience for us city slickers. But after a while we started to enjoy the absolute quietness, listening to the call of the fish eagle (the real one, not the one on TV), the snort of the hippos and the chatter of the many bird species in the area. A veritable chorus of sounds that merge into the pulse, the ebb and flow of life.
We were privileged to have had a nice big camp fire every evening around which we sat at night and where Piet Fluit made an indelible impression on us as he conscientiously heated the water and would then whistle distinctly to call us when the temperature rose to perfect coffee/tea temperature. The donkey, which was diligently fed with wood by Eric, heated the water for our open air ablution facilities, our shower and our toilet. The stars were a sight to behold whilst we were performing our cleansing rituals in the reed enclosures under the open heavens at night. Millions of sparkling lights lit up the heavens, steadily progressing in its journey across our heavens. The lights of the city dulls the vastly spread treasure of heavenly lights, and we could stare at the heavens for hours in amazement without becoming bored at all.
On the down side, it tended to cool off in the evenings, which cut our shower times in half…. There was only one toilet, which was connected to the shower, and if the men got caught up in conversation, it was a deadly wait for the ladies who were desperate to go…. Sitting like wallflowers on the tree stump outside the enclosure, we would encourage them to make haste, but alas, the boys could talk. The memory that comes to mind is that of the ladies sitting in a row on the tree stump one night, waiting patiently whilst Sakkie and Frans were busy sorting out all the global problems facing mankind today. Without easing the pressure on our bladders for a moment. But they had an absolute bonding moment. Lovely old trees cast some shade over the campsite and we were blessed with some of the most beautiful sunrises and sunsets. Even the moon rose red on the horizon every night, before becoming lighter as it journeyed across the sky.
We did not know what Father had planned for us in Zambia, other than cutting off all contact with the outside world, but after some discussions with Penny, it became clear that we were going to be meeting some of the local villagers who lived about 5 km away. Penny contacted Joseph and Matomi and they came over to meet us on the first afternoon. We were immediately struck by their hunger and passion for the Lord and the Word, and their humbleness and reverence for God.
60 km from Katima Mulilo, hidden just off the main road, a short dirt entrance leads to one of many tiny scattered Zambian villages. Unmarked, save for two towering trees, the village where Joseph and Matomi lives is neatly set with little homes of wood and clay, and roofs of straw. Hens and chickens scratch around in the sand looking for bugs and scraps to eat. Simplicity nestled in nature's beauty.
Easily mistaken for two young village boys, Joseph and Matomi gladly greet with open faces and ready smiles. But these young men are already fathers with wives and children of their own. We were introduced to them by Gavin and Penny Johnson, who manages a lodge in Zambia. They have identified these precious warriors of the Lord a couple of kilometers away, and have been assisting them spiritually. Sold out for the Kingdom, Joseph and Matomi desire to learn more and to share the gospel with all who are lost. Their passion and conviction is humbling. They are spiritual beings who both thirst for the Word and desperately want to share it with others. We spent the morning with the children, teaching them Bible stories in the language they understand best: Play. Through the process play acting we trained Joseph and Matomi how to plant the seeds of the Gospel within the children over the longer term through performance and role playing. They thoroughly enjoyed the role playing, and as they began to understand who the various characters were and the type of people they represented, there was a greater demand to be David or Saul or Noah rather than Goliath or the Philistines. We started with the village children, but pretty soon the group had grown quite large. Children had come from the nearby villages to join in on the fun and celebrations. They were beaming with joy and enjoying every moment of victory and defeat.
Joseph and Matomi are totally sold out to the Lord, and their greatest desire is to spread the gospel to the furthest borders of their country, reaching all their brothers and sisters and guiding them on the road to victory in Christ. In the afternoon, we ministered and shared with the adults, and as the day progressed the group steadily grew with members from neighboring villages making the journey to Joseph and Matomi's village, having heard that we were there. Every time we looked up, another straw mat would be spread out for new arrivals to join. They were like sponges soaking up the Word and desiring to hear more about the Lord. Many came forward for prayer and wonderful miracles took place.
What stands out as a beacon of hope, is an old woman who had very limited hearing and sight. Probably close to Methuselah's age, she somehow seemed to sense every time we were at the village, and would laboriously make her way across the sand, sidestepping and sometimes stumbling over rocks and underbrush, with the chickens and children coming underfoot. Then she would sit down on the outside of the circle as though, just by being present, she found peace and comfort in her soul. After praying for all those who requested prayer for illness and disease, the Lord showed me that I had to pray for her. They brought her forward, and although she was standing right in front of me, she did not hear or see a thing. To see the Lord restore her sight and hearing, and the wonder in her eyes when she looked up at the trees and skies as if seeing them for the first time, was such a glorious experience. I realized once again, that if your heart is calling out to the Lord, and you hold steadfastly to your faith, He will not disappoint you. The spirit calling out in her knew to reach out to the Spirit operating in our meeting, and she just knew that this was where her pleas would be answered.
After we had concluded the meeting, we blessed them with Bibles, to have been able to see the ecstatic look on their faces when they received a Bible they could call their own for the first time, tightly clasped to their chests and the tears of thankfulness streaming down many faces, was absolutely incredible. Then they brought out a little pot of kaboom mealies, piping hot from the fire, and offered it around to all of us to enjoy…. We each took a handful from the little pot of large white, succulent, flavorsome mealies. One handful, and then another, each of us savoring the wonderful juicy taste of perfectly cooked kaboom mealies, the Lord then asked me if I really understood that they were giving us the very best they had to offer? That little pot of kaboom mealies was the food that they had prepared, that would feed their entire little community that night. They really gave us their very best, as they shared most of the food with us, the strangers in their midst, with such humble, joyful hearts.
God then asked me, what are you going to give them? Are you going to give them your second or third best, or your very best? That really touched my heart, it made me realize what a tremendous responsibility we have as a ministry to the Gospel of Jesus Christ, to serve our fellow man and give them our very, very best as though it was Christ we were giving it to. Do we really, honestly, give God our very best, or do we only give God our second, third and fourth best? As servants of the Lord we should only give our very best. What do we give for His kingdom? God gave His very best for us. He gave us His only begotten Son, our Lord Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ, who was totally sinless, blameless and innocent, took the sins of the world upon Himself and paid the ultimate price on the cross at Calvary for you and me, so that we could be saved. Do we truly always give our very best to further the Gospel? I felt a gut-wrenching twist in my stomach when I realized just exactly what God had said, that in their humbleness as servants of God, they had given us their very, very best, placing us above their own needs and desires. They treated us as though they were entertaining angels. Do we do the same, or do we hold back?
Only after we have had our fill, did they partake of the kaboom mealies. Not only are they hungry for the Word, they are also suffering with real pangs of physical hunger, their lean, sinewy bodies and dry skins bear testimony to the fact that they often go without. But not so much as a whisper of a complaint was heard. They felt privileged to share their food with us. This little community, one of so many such little communities that are scattered throughout Zambia, have a desperate need for food, basic food, the stuff we take for granted every day; for seeds to enable them to grow a larger selection of their own food such as mealies and spinach and tomatoes and cabbage; for clothing to cover their bodies and blankets to keep them warm on the cold nights when the breeze coming off the river is icy, amongst the most basic needs we identified.
Joseph and Matomi are also in need of some financial assistance in order to allow them to focus on their heart's desire of spreading the Word of God without worrying about where the next bit of food is going to come from to feed their families and community; to keep the wolf of starvation from their doors. Joseph and Matomi do some woodwork, they make beautiful wooden doors and door frames, for people who have need thereof such as lodges and homes that are being built, in order to provide for their families. But there is not always a demand for the work they do, and some months are much leaner than others. Their thin, wiry bodies bear testimony to the hunger they suffer, and the children's little pot bellies confirm the lack of nutrition and the devastating effects their limited access to a balanced diet is having on their health.
We at Mount Zion Ministries, have felt the urge of the Lord to take some responsibility for this little community and to take them under our covering. We would like to provide them with a small monthly income (the minimum wage in Zambia is around 650 Kwacha's, which is approximately N$/R1,000 per month). Many of the members of the group who took part in the outreach, have committed to assist financially in some way every month, and we would also like to assist them with some of the basics such as food (staples like rice and pasta), seeds to plant and generate their own food going forward, some clothing and blankets (the nights can get really cold), basic medical supplies and whatever else the Lord lays on our hearts to help them with. If we are able to assist these men with N$/R500 to N$/R1,000 each a month, it would make a world of difference to their lives. It would allow them to spend more time with growing the seeds of their faith, and give them just that little bit of support that is so desperately needed when your daily circumstances are so delicate and fragile.
Gavin and Penny, who will remain their spiritual parents on a daily basis, have undertaken to buy whatever is necessary for the village to survive from whatever we are able to bless them with. Please, if you feel the urging of the Spirit, would you consider assisting this little village who is going to spread the gospel one village at a time, so that they can grow and become stronger in their faith in the Lord, whilst growing more self-sufficient and healthy in both body and spirit? TOGETHER we can help set Africa alight with the gospel.
On Lenita's birthday the Thursday, less than a week after Sakkie's, we visited the Ngonya Falls in Siona, one of the local attractions. They are currently busy building a hydro-electric scheme in the river/dam, which means that the unsophisticated and unspoilt beauty of the falls will be changing in the future. The road we took suddenly ended in the middle of nowhere, as it had not yet been completed, and we then took the dirt road which led to a construction site. An intrepid Zambian was selling cement in the middle of the road. Just imagine, nothing to your left and nothing to your right, nothing as far as the eye can see, but in the middle of the road an entrepreneur had stocked up on cement to supply the contractors up ahead should their stocks run low or out.
We had to turn around to find the road that led to the falls, but were eventually navigated there. At the Ngonya Falls, we parked and hit the track with a guide. A rocky little bush road that wound upwards, we climbed up and over rocks and things to reach the falls. Lovely, cascading waters suddenly surrounded us after the climb. We spotted a freshwater otter playing in the waters, and after enjoying the beautiful surroundings for a while, we had to turn around and find the way back. Despite the simple explanation it is a bit of a walk with surface challenges that added some spice to the excitement of the journey. The falls were beautiful, but nothing could prepare us for the Victoria Falls we would be visiting later on. We finished after lunch, and almost drowned ourselves in water (it's hot during the day, and the thirst is a beast you often underestimate), savoring the cool relief as we greedily drank the water.
On our return journey, we stopped and purchased some fish from a roadside vendor for Joseph and Matomi and their people. The time spent in Zambia had passed with such speed, and we had enjoyed every moment, but it was time to move on. We committed to assisting Joseph and Matomi with a small monthly financial contribution so that they can focus on the spiritual needs of the community, and after inquiring about the needs of the community, we plan to arrange seeds, dry foods, old clothes and other basic necessities to assist them with.
Victoria Falls awaited us. We were surprised to find out that the SADC meeting was taking place in Victoria Falls over the weekend we were going to be there. With all the dignitaries from Southern African converging on Victoria Falls, they were on their best behavior. No power cuts or water shortages, just smooth sailing.
Crossing the border was a breeze, although we were not allowed to take any fresh foodstuff across the border. Once we arrived in Victoria Falls, we were mesmerized by the sight of the falls, stretching across the horizon, with a misty spray going many meters into the air. The photographs do not really do the falls justice. Our minds tend to marginalize the immense size of this natural wonder, and even whilst witnessing them, it seemed we were unable to comprehend this vast, magical sight.
Our host, Fred, came to fetch us in the town and helped us settle in once we arrived at their home. Both Fred and Elfrieda are such gentle kindred spirits, seemingly untouched by the horrors of their country. They live for the Lord, and they both shine brightly in that hostile environment. We set up our tents in the garden, and had a lovely braai in the evening. The mozzie patrols were reminiscent of the flies in Australia. If you did not cover every inch of your body with repellent, you became a tasty morsel for those little bloodsuckers.
Whilst we were busy arranging our trip and all our points of call, God was busy fine-tuning the schedule for us and setting up the dominos to fall at the perfectly appointed moments. Our hosts were Fred & Elfrida Smit, who are residents of Victoria Falls with such wonderful hearts for the Lord, and their right hand lady Shelto has a true servant's heart that is humbling to experience. Between the three of them, we had a very blessed and truly wonderful time. Our timing was perfect. On Saturday morning Fred and the Boys had a Men's Breakfast, and after they had all fellow-shipped together, they prepared a delicious breakfast of bacon and eggs and sausages that hit the spot. They really are such a precious group of people, and the men had a truly blessed time.
Before departing Namibia, the Lord showed us that we were going to battle and take part in spiritual warfare. Warfare against principalities that had to be removed… and the destruction of the sacrificial altars of satan where so many human sacrifices had been made for decades. The Lord revealed three sites to us where we had to make a number of different proclamations, such as taking back the territory that had been stolen.
The first site was in the rain-forest at the Livingstone statue, on the upper edge of the thundering waters; the second site was under a bridge with an old and dry riverbed that had been cursed and the third site was at the Royal Elephant Hotel, the place where all the Presidents and Heads of State of Southern Africa were staying for the duration of the SADC conference that was taking place over the same weekend we were in Victoria Falls. The Royal Elephant Hotel is built on one of the oldest and largest satanic altars in Southern Africa, where sacrifices have been made for as far back as passed on from generation to generation. The fact that all the Presidents and Heads of State were staying at the Royal Elephant Hotel, was a declaration that they were all pawns, subject to satan's power and might.
Due to the tremendous security measures that had been implemented to protect all the foreign dignitaries, we were not able to get close to the hotel. But we could go to the Livingstone Statue as well as visit the bridge at the dry riverbed. Due to the fact that we could not gain access to the Royal Elephant Hotel, we needed to make the proclamations God had given us from Karel's farm.
Situated about 15 km outside Victoria Falls, Karel's farm is one of the few strategic sites that offers both an amazing and elevated vantage point from where Africa is literally spread out before, behind and around you. The amazing curtain of mist that covers the Victoria Falls from some angles, were clearly visible, as was Livingstone in Zambia and the airport from where the helicopters were departing at regular intervals to take tourists over the falls to view the majestic beauty. We felt like eagles with the amazing and encompassing landscape spread out before us. It was almost like looking into the future, that is how much we could see. It gave us the visual scope of the whole area as far as into Zambia.
As we discussed the task that we had been given, the Holy Spirit gave us the scriptures to declare and the places we needed to go to make the proclamations and take the authority and victory of the spiritual battle in Jesus name. The first two sites had been used for many human sacrifices in the past, and we proclaimed the Word of God, speaking life into the spirit world and declared the defeat of satan and his principalities and all the injustices that they had perpetrated there, taking authority and claiming the victory in Jesus name as we know from the Word that the battle has already been won. We could feel the battle that raged around us abate, and the pure, soothing peace of the Holy Spirit descended over us. There were 12 of us, and the Holy Spirit prompted us to stand in a circle, with our backs facing each other and each of us facing North, East, South and West as well as every variation in between. Fred as a native representative of spiritual authority in Zimbabwe, took up place in the middle of the circle, reading the scriptures aloud and proclaiming the Word God had given us over all the territories as far as the eye could see, as well as the territory continuing to the furthermost reaches of Southern Africa. We all had to make the proclamations in the different directions we were facing and sprinkled the Blood of Jesus into all those directions we were facing.
The impossible heat of the day was cooled by the clouds that suddenly appeared, and a light breeze cooled us a bit and brought relief from the sweltering heat. A number of proclamations were made, amongst which one was that ALL the Presidents and Heads of State of the Southern African SADC countries WILL in the future (from that point on) do the WILL of GOD, we took authority over them and we also destroyed those altars that we could not reach at the Royal Elephant Hotel in the spirit and we sprinkled it with the Blood of Jesus and claimed it back for Him. A drizzle later in the day broke the death grip of the weather. We planted a couple of Bibles at these sites, trusting God to send those people who need them to find and collect them.
Proclamation Scriptures:
Psalms 110:1-7
Jeremiah 5
Matthew 18:7 (Injustices)
Psalm 122
Luke 10:19 (Declare First)
2 Corinthians 10:3 (Declare First)
Psalm 144:5-8 (Declare Last)
Hebrews 12:24-25 (Sprinkled Blood)
Hebrews 10:19 (Boldness)
Whilst we were on the higher ground on Karel's farm, the Lord told us to make 2 proclamations with regards to the SADC meeting that was taking place. The first was that ALL the presidents who were involved in the SADC meeting would do the Will of God from that day, going forward. When you battle principalities, God will always give you a sign that the battle has been won and that there was a victory in the spirit world.
Sunday morning was spent fellow-shipping with the congregation at Victoria Falls and we were really touched by this precious group of souls. God is doing amazing things everywhere, and they have each been chosen to be a flaming torch in the night for God. After the service, everybody stayed for lunch, a bring and braai for all to enjoy. It's always so amazing to realize that, unlike the little congregation in Zambia, these people know the Word and they have living relationships with God, it's just the spiritual aspects, including warfare, that they don't have. And as the world outside is changing, the need to be well equipped to battle the spiritual war has become very important if we as Christians are to survive. God gave us a reference manual, the Bible, which we need to study and know intimately. He gave us the Holy Spirit to guide us and open up and reveal the scriptures so that we might gain deeper understanding of the word. But it's up to us to study it, build our relationship with the Holy Spirit, and apply the knowledge gained in our daily lives in order to live our lives in victory. If we fail to do so, we battle in vain, and we will only witness the destruction around us instead of the victory promised in the word.
Later in the afternoon we went to the Safari Lodge to see the sunset at the waterhole. The animals arrived in all their kinds to drink of the water, buffaloes, giraffes, elephants, etc. Thereafter we went to the Victoria Falls Hotel, which is such a beautifully rich piece of Zimbabwean history. We walked through it and it felt like we were stepping back in time. The view from the hotel is truly awesome, and we were spoilt for choice. Back home, Fred spoiled us with his favorite ice cream, which ended up being everybody's favorite ice cream. Fred also blessed me with the most delightfully flavorsome and aromatic coffee. I always thought Namibia had the best coffee, but the amazing blend that Fred is privileged to enjoy, is truly a heavenly blessing. He blessed me with a kilogram of the gold to take home, which I still enjoy every day whilst fondly remembering our visit to Zimbabwe.
We woke up early on Monday to visit the Victoria Falls, and with the heat intensifying during the day, the best time to do this is just before sunrise or closer to sunset. Breathing in the cool, moist air, we headed out on the route and were pleasantly surprised to see Bambi on the side of the footpath, grazing away. The scenery is something that words can't really do justice to – the lush tropical rain forest, the cascading mass of water, the mist bouncing up in the air, the serenity of nature, is so amazing, such a wonderful, humbling time to commune with the Creator. It seemed like all the dignitaries from the SADC conference had the same idea, and they were walking the paths with us, gob smacked at the sight before them. We greeted all the foreign dignitaries as they passed us, but they all ignored us flatly and almost mowed us down in their singularly focused approach that they were entitled to be there and we were pesky flies obstructing their approach. Only the Mauritian delegation of three, responded to our friendly hello, when we were all assembled around the same lookout point.
God told me to go to them and thank them for being willing to communicate with us. I asked them where they were from and they said Mauritius, and the President of Mauritius personally invited us to come and visit Mauritius, this was a sign that God gave us. We were instructed to proclaim and instruct the spirits that all the presidents will do Gods will going forward in the future, and this President from Mauritius personally invited us to come and visit Mauritius. Just a week after our return, in the first week of September, President Jacob Zuma personally declared that Jesus Christ had to come back to South Africa to save the many unbelievers. In the end, two presidents had invited Jesus into their countries. When this happened, God asked me if I actually really understood what had just happened? The president of Mauritius had invited Mount Zion Ministries into his country, a spiritual invitation, which I immediately accepted on the spot and asked God to reveal to me at the appointed time when this invitation will come to fruition. Interestingly the SADC delegations were staying at one of the famous landmark hotels that was a historic offering site, and we know the dangers of association. One of our team members voiced the question of the Namibian President, who is a Christian, he was obviously at risk associating with the group of evil doers.
After walking the distance of the Victoria Falls, we returned to the Rainforest Café to enjoy a traditional cup of coffee. Our next stop was the Victoria Falls Gorge. There is so much to do, that you needn't be concerned. White river rafting, tree top/canopy tours, crossing the gorge on a bungee rope or bungee jumping at the bridge. The tree top tours seemed to be the most popular, but I must admit the gorge crossing is not for the faint hearted. You jump off the platform and when the bungee rope is fully extended, you swing across the gorge, from left to right. Not as smooth as the tree top tour, where you simply fly across the treetops…
In the evening we were blessed with a huge turnout to hear the message about the Bride and the Marriage. The Holy Spirit felt tangible, so many were anointed and Word spoken to them. Afterwards we shared a curry and rice. Fred and Elfrida have a helper called Shelto, an angel in disguise with a true servant's heart. Shelto works with an energy that is inspiring, and manages to get everything done before anybody can think to ask for it. But sadly, all good things came to an end, and we had to start our return journey.
On Tuesday morning we departed Zimbabwe through Botswana to Namibia. After saying goodbye, we were on our way. The border posts were a source of great amusement as the monkeys and baboons ran around freely, those tiny little beady eyes peeled on potential treasures they could score from the innocent travelers. They moved at the speed of light, up and down, over and under vehicles, trucks, trees, anything in their way. And if one of them were successful, the others would hound him till they got a bit of the spoils.
We filled up after entering Botswana, as the fuel is cheaper there, and we were blessed witnessing a huge parade of elephants crossing the road right in front of us. They are like big babies, and despite their docile appearance, not animals to be toyed with. But like typical tourists we sat with mouths agape, watching these gorgeous creatures thunderously proceeding with their babies across the road, tearing bark of the trees and simply ruling over their environment. A bit further, a troop of giraffes crossed the road in their languid, eccentric way. They tower over the trees, and with smoothly awkward movements they moved, seemingly defying gravity. Looking at them, they just look like they are too lopsided and should fall over easily, but they graciously moved through the bush, across the road and onto greener pastures. The dense brush and trees covering the landscape challenged our sense of awareness and observation.
At the Ngoma border post, crossing into Namibia, another parade of elephants were coming down the hill, pulling strips of bark from a baobab tree and chewing it the way we would chew gum. They are fearless creatures, as they flatten fences, crossing the road, proceeding to the water in the Chobe river. We stopped at the Chobe River Lodge in the hopes of seeing Daniela again, but she had moved on, so we enjoyed an icy cool drink whilst soaking up the spectacular view and peacefulness of nature. The river boat at the lodge, was one we had passed on the road on our way to Zimbabwe. Amazing how so many things are interlinked in life.
Back at the Protea Hotel in Katima Mulilo, we met Alex, a Czechoslovakian and he told us about how they forgot to book accommodation for the Namibian President to attend the SADC conference. We set up camp, and in the evening we were serenaded by the hippos in the Zambezi. On Wednesday we departed for Mahangu River Lodge in the Kavango after a quick visit to Janneman and Elda. Mahangu, on the bank of the Kavango, boasts schools of Hippopotamus and at night they would feed on the grass right by the bank where we were camping. Frans called us to come see a beauty grazing in front of their tent in the evening. Languorously, she took bites of grass, chewing with the water running into her mouth as she moved about for the next mouthful.
On Thursday, Gert, Eleonor and Frans went fishing… for tiger fish. And late afternoon we all went on a sunset cruise, the houseboat slowly making its way up and down the Kavango. We were spoilt with elephants, hippos, crocodiles, kingfishers and a gazillion other beautiful bird species flying overhead or nesting in the wall of the bank or on the wetlands just off the river. It felt surreal as we watched the sunset change from yellow to orange to red to a dusky pink/purple…. Coloring the world with brush of softness contrary to the dangers lurking in the waters surrounding us.
On Friday we went to the little game reserve and were fortunate to see many wild animals, ostriches with their babies (both their own and those they had abducted from other ostriches), zebras, blue wildebeest, kudus, impalas, gazelle, hippos, elephants…. As a result of the fuel shortages, we filled up the diesel trucks, but had to wait for the petrol to arrive. On our way back to Mahangu, we saw two girls busy stamping mahangu in the traditional manner, and Frans stopped to show Nadine how they did it. Young girls in their early teens were stamping away, back breaking work, and they explained that they repeated it four times for the most refined result. One of the girls had a hunchback, she was born that way. Frans shared the gospel with them, and then asked if he could pray for her because she said her back was really aching. Frans is one of those precious people who fearlessly and continuously reaches out to every soul he meets, making us aware of just how much more we can still do if we were to become more sensitive to the guidance of the Holy Spirit. She thanked him for his prayer, feeling better already, and vigorously continued stamping the mahangu, a tiny little seed that is one of their staples.
The petrol arrived the Saturday, and we could fill up and continue our journey. We stopped at Riverdance, a beautiful place we had heard about from others along the way, maybe a potential stop for next year? The owners, Timo and Karen are such warm and inviting people, they immediately felt like friends we had known all our lives. They showed us around, and shared their dreams around the development, confirming all the miracles God had done for them. The greatest of them all, is their little daughter, after years of infertility and saying goodbye to the dream of becoming parents, the impossible became reality. With God, nothing is impossible.
We started the 800 km journey back to Okahandja. Between Divindu and Rundu we stopped for brunch under a beautiful tree with little yellow flowers, and again just after Rundu when Frans collected a parcel for one of his coal makers. We arrived back home, tired but fulfilled with the many people who had crossed our paths and in whose lives we were able to make a difference. Everywhere we went, we shared the gospel and gave Bibles to all who needed it, and seeing the tears of joy when they held their own Bible for the first time, was payment enough.
The main purpose of this outreach was to make new specific spiritual connections. We really made the most amazing spiritual connections all along our journey and previous connections were strengthened. We will be returning on the same route again in August next year as God has clearly shown us that we at Mount Zion Ministries, must follow the same journey every year to encourage and strengthen our brothers and sisters in Christ. The basic route is laid out now, and we look forward to experiencing the fullness of the route in the years to come. We believe that stronger spiritual connections will grow from this point going forward, and we are excited to see what God has planned for the future and to be a part of it.
Once again we would like to say a big Thank You to all of you who made this journey possible through your loyal sowing of seed into Mount Zion Ministries, the financial support, through loyally keeping us in your prayers and through physically contributing on various levels to assist the ministry. Your seed have brought the Word of God to so many who are now proud owners of their very own Bibles, something we tend to take for granted. We would like to share this feedback with all of you and we would like you to know where your seed is being planted and also take the opportunity to thank you all for your faithfulness and loyalty. Thank you to all of you who stayed behind and looked after everything whilst we were gone, who prayed and interceded for us, who loyally manned the fort in our absence. Without your support, we would not have been able to go on this journey. Every one of you are vitally important in the success of Mount Zion Ministries, even though you could not physically share with us, we will all share in the spiritual harvest of the seeds that have been planted.
Be blessed
2 presidents – Macedonia called again to visit countries – Perfect Timing:
When we returned to our campsite at Katima Mulilo in Namibia, we met with Alexander, a well seasoned traveler who had just returned from a long journey, and he just happened to mention that they cleanly forgot to book the Namibian President into the hotel at Victoria Falls, and as a result he had to fly through to Zimbabwe every day for the duration of the conference.
Isn't it wonderful just how God protects His own from unintentional association?


text:
The Cabrini Monash University Department of Surgery and Let's Beat Bowel Cancer are proud to announce the receipt of a prestigious $300,000 grant from The Collie Foundation. This grant will enable the department to continue its world-leading research in organoids.
This philanthropic grant confirms the continuing importance of the colorectal research platform that has been built up substantially at Cabrini Health with a new team of research scientists and collaborations, together with the impact of performing ground breaking clinical and translational bowel cancer research.
A joint research collaboration between the Cabrini Monash University Department of Surgery led by Associate Professor Paul McMurrick (Frohlich West Chair of Surgery), Let's Beat Bowel Cancer and the Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute with Associate Professor Helen Abud and her team, has developed an exciting research program that has the potential to create 'personalised medicine' whereby patients could be spared the gruelling trial and error approach to treatment, thereby taking some of the stress and anxiety out of bowel cancer treatment.
Following a diagnosis of bowel cancer, small amounts of both normal and cancerous tissue are taken from the colon of bowel cancer patients undergoing treatment at Cabrini Hospital. This tissue is then grown into living, three-dimensional tumours, known as 'organoids', that mimic the properties and traits of the tissue from which they are taken.
The aim, according to Associate Professor Paul McMurrick, is to develop organoids as a quick and cost-effective way to study tumour biology and determine the best treatment for an individual's cancer.
"Organoids are of huge interest," Associate Professor McMurrick said, "because it means that clinicians and scientists can now study our biology in action outside a patient's body."
Currently the research team has grown 74 organoids and are well on their way to their goal of developing a living biobank of 100. In addition to banking primary tumours, the team has also begun to bank metastatic tumours also known as secondary tumours, with progress going a significant way in studying how different tumours grow and what can be done to prevent their spread. This has been developed through Cabrini Hospital because Cabrini is the highest volume treatment centre for bowel cancer in Victoria in both the public and private sector, supported by a mature and well established patient follow-up clinical database.
"This new grant of $300,000 from The Collie Foundation," said Associate Professor McMurrick, "will allow us to continue the Cabrini department of surgery's research platform in an expanded fashion, and pursue such an exciting research and innovative clinical tool."


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How can I show local notification from Native iOS app when some location condition is met even when app is in foreground/background(when the user minimizes the app (by clicking on the iPhone's Home Button or by locking the phone as well).
Hi @SumeetKumawat2110 --
You need to implement the location manager's
DidEnterRegion and
DidExitRegion delegate methods as shown in this code example (look at the second C# example).
In those methods you can post a local notification.
I hope that helps!


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Availability: In stock
Love Warriors is a creative team that travels around the world in search of the finest interior objects. This buffalo skull (died of natural cause) is a gem for anyone who loves boho-chic or eclectic style. Completely handmade, it's is a treasure where fashion meets handcraft and tradition.
The dimensions are approximate, each skull is different and unique.
Crafted with skill.


text: Maverick October 15, 2015 Dorchester Skatepark Maverick October 15, 2015 "The park itself is a complete work of art. It surpasses the build quality of any concrete park I've ever ridden. The copings are perfect all the way round, the transitions are perfect and the main thing you'll notice is how proper the edges look, grass neatly lines up with the concrete all the way round. It's a pleasure to be there" — RIDE BMX MAGAZINE Dorchester SkateparkLittle Fairfield Skatepark Weymouth Ave Dorchester DT1 1RD


text: dezzy_fletcher Report post Posted March 29, 2011 Okay, I'm kinda new to this, so let's see if I can make this any good. All the members of this are at a horse stable on Eastern,Oregon. We are all different ages, different levels. There are three instructors at the facility, one for Western riding/Reining/Barrel Racing One for Dressage/Jumping and one for beginner riders. Each person can have 3 horses. The facility is a large place with a 200'x180' indoor arena, there are 3 large covered round pens, an indoor dressage ring and an indoor arena with a jump pattern set up. There are trails that go through the woods behind the barn, a half mile 'track' set up for race conditioning. Also, there are 72 stalls with 12'x20' paddocks attached. When you join, post at the top your characters Name Age Level (beginner intermediat or experienced) Position (boarder, trainer, or student) A description of yourself: what style or discipline you ride: For each horse: Registered name: Barn name: Age: Breed: Color: Discipline trained for: Personality: This could be fun :) Share this post Link to post Share on other sites


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Juan is born here and lives here until he is 9 years old.
Juan is escorted here by the cruel muleteer, Carmelo, after his mother dies.
To Juan, the cities of this place seem dirtier than those of his homeland, and the people seem less friendly.
This is a spaniel, a tiny lap dog. Along with Juan, he is deserted by the servants during the plague.
The Studio
This is a large room on the second floor of the painter's home. It is almost bare, except for the easels and a chair or two.
The Earring
When Zulema dies, she leaves this to Juan as his inheritance.
The Real
This is given to Juan as he is traveling and symbolizes kindness, and Juan is especially disappointed when it is stolen by the muleteer, Carmelo.
This kitten is a symbol of the affection Juan has...
(read more Object Descriptions)
This section contains 272 words
(approx. 1 page at 300 words per page)


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Major upgrade in progress,Please bare with me.:F
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Not sure how excited I can get about the NBL this year. It's free to watch online so I'll check it out but the NBA starts again soon and that may take over.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5sPUy8y_JzEGo 36ers!!!
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The delivery of your speech in public relies on various elements from overcoming a fear of crowds to your knowledge on a topic. Whether you've delivered speeches before, or it's your first time, it is important that you say it effectively in order to maximize the impact on your audience. The following are elements you should have to ensure your speech is not just well done, but manages to get its message across expertly.
#1 Overcoming Your Fear
Public speaking is an overwhelming affair. In fact, it is the number one fear in North America! Overcoming this takes a number of steps. Begin by identifying what it is you are afraid of and finding a way to face it. Also ensure adequate preparation and practice, either in front of a mirror or with increasing frequency of the speeches you give. Tearing down your fear for public speaking is a gradual process but it is important as it affects your level of confidence with an audience.
#2 Knowing Your Audience
Your audience will have certain expectations of you, and in order to fulfill them, you need to know certain details about them. Aside from knowing how many there are, you should have a good idea what their age-group is and how much they understand the subject or topic you'll be presenting. Whether they are experienced or novices in the subject, your delivery should be holistic enough to let them learn something new and emphasize on obvious points without undermining their intelligence.
#3 Researching Your Topic
An essential part of your presentation is in the knowledge you convey. For this reason, research should entail much of your preparation. Knowing your topic works well in your delivery and ability to answer questions from participants. In-depth knowledge of a topic keeps you from making sweeping statements and from having awkward moments in the middle of your speech or when questions come up, all of which can make your audience lose confidence in your capability to talk about the subject at hand.
#4 Having a Personality
You need to be relatable and impressionable to your audience. Personality is conveyed through your tone, body language and the general sense of expression. Find ways to squeeze in some personal opinions on the subject you're delivering. You could illustrate points in your speech with stories drawn from personal experience so that your audience is also able to apply the knowledge you're imparting to them in their own lives. Your tone should be clear and friendly, even in professional circumstances. Move up and down the stage to keep yourself from being stale in your delivery.
#5 Encouraging Audience Participation
Depending on the kind of speech you're delivering, you might consider finding a way to engage with your audience. Small groups could be given room to ask questions or a platform to make brief statements that are moderated. If you're dealing with a large group of attendees, you could have a catch word that they chant in response to points you make, to keep them alert and to emphasize the message of the talk you're giving. Your speech then becomes less monotonous and focus shifts from you towards the people you're addressing.
With a calm and collected resolve, public speaking can be a fun exercise. Skills acquired are also important in other areas of your life. It enhances your reputation, boosts your self-confidence, and helps you think and speak on your feet. Public speaking can go on to open up various opportunities for further engagement.
Image: iStock


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Technology evolves quickly: in 2005, the average 40-inch flat screen television would have cost you more than $1,500. Today, 10 years later, you can purchase a 40-inch flat screen TV for less than $230.
The same has happened with hearing aids, although it's more likely to escape our awareness. We notice that TVs become bigger, better, and less costly, but we're blind to the enhancements in hearing aids because we're not inundated with advertising and massive store exhibits.
Nonetheless, hearing aids, together with all other consumer electronics, have advanced significantly over the last 10 years. If analog hearing aids are like the cumbersome 15-inch-tube-TVs of the past, today's digital hearing aids are like the lightweight 65-inch-Ultra-High-Definition TVs of the present.
Here's what makes modern hearing aids considerably better, starting with the technology that makes it all possible.
Digital Technology
Hearing aids, like all electronic devices, have benefited from the digital revolution. Hearing aids have emerged as, in a sense, miniaturized computers, with all of the programming flexibility you'd expect from a modern computer.
The consequence is a device that is small, lightweight, energy-efficient, and capable of manipulating information—information being, in the example of a hearing aid, sound.
So how do modern hearing aids manipulate sound? Let's use an analogy: visualize inbound sound as incoming mail and the digital hearing aid as a mailroom.
As mail is obtained, it's identified, labeled, stored, and consequently delivered to the appropriate recipients. In the same manner, digital hearing aids can take incoming sound and can label certain frequencies to be delivered to the amplifier. Speech sounds, for instance, can be labeled as important and delivered to the speaker for amplification. Similarly, background noise can be marked as "undeliverable" and suppressed.
Analog hearing aids didn't have this "mailroom" functionality. Incoming sound was delivered all at the same time—like if the mail clerk were to give you everyone's mail and you had to sift through the clutter yourself to find your own. Speech simply gets lost in the mix with background noise, and you have to work tirelessly to dig it out.
Hearing Aid Advanced Features
Digital manipulation of information is the magic formula to everything a modern hearing aid can accomplish. Here are a few of the state-of-the-art features associated with contemporary hearing aids that digital technology makes possible:
- Speech recognition – digital hearing aids can recognize and enhance speech with digital processing and directional microphones.
- Background noise suppression – background noise is a lower frequency sound, which the hearing aid can recognize and suppress.
- Clearer phone calls – telecoil technology amplifies the signal from your phone, leading to clear sound without interference.
- Wireless streaming – hearing aids with Bluetooth technology can connect to devices wirelessly, so you can stream music, phone calls, and TV programs straight to your hearing aids.
- Wireless control – compatible hearing aids can be operated with smartphones and digital watches, so you can easily and inconspicuously adjust volume and settings.
Test Out Your New Digital Hearing Aids
As you have seen, digital hearing aids are powerful pieces of modern day technology. That's why almost all cases of hearing loss can now be effectively treated, and why most people are pleased with the performance of their hearing aids.
If you'd like to try out this new technology for yourself, give us a call and inquire about our trial period.


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Cal Ripken Baseball Division - All non-wood bats must have USABat Marking. Barrel Maximum 2 5/8". No BBCOR Bats are permitted in the Cal Ripken Division. For T-Ball, bats must be marked with USABat T-Ball Stamp.
Babe Ruth 13-15 Division - All non-wood bats must have the USABat Marking or marked BBCOR .50. Bat Barrel - 2 5/8".
Babe Ruth 16-18 Division - All non-wood bats must be BBCOR .50 and no greater than -3. Bat Barrel - 2 5/8".
Note: Solid one piece wood bats are permitted for use in all divisions and must conform to Rule 1.10. No laminated or experimental bats shall be used in a game.
Tampering or altering bats may violate certain federal and state laws and voids the USA Baseball certification, as well as all manufacturer warranties. Rolling is considered tampering and would void the bat's certification and make it illegal for play.
Tag(s): Home


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Family Friendly and Gender-Equity
Who We Are
The Family Friendly and Gender-Equity working group focuses on supporting the family needs of students on issues of childcare, parental leave, lactation stations, and more. We make sure students know of existing resources and advocate for access to additional resources.
|Short Term Goals
|Long Term Goals
|Compile list of existing resources – UAW, UW, etc. and distribute to 1) members 2) stewards for dissemination among departmental list servs
|Build on existing momentum (and create when possible) for family issues on campus and regionally – related to child care, universal preschool, family/sick leave, etc.
|Access child care survey data (from last year's GPSS initiative)
|Organize around existing efforts (i.e., board of regents)
|Access family story/anecdotes (from last year's GPSS initiative)
What We Do
Ongoing Work:
- Enforcing and improving the availability of lactation stations on campus
- Fostering a more inclusive environment for students who are parents
- Working with the M.L. King County Labor Council and Councilmember Kshama Sawant's office to secure paid family leave in Seattle (for information from July's Town Hall meeting on paid family leave, check out this Facebook event.)
Get Support
If you have any questions or concerns about family friendly or gender equity related issues, please email firstname.lastname@example.com.
Additional Resources:
Student Parent Resource Center
Student Parent Resource Center resources
UAW child care subsidy
On-campus Lactation Stations
Get Involved
We are always looking for new members! If you're interested in helping with our work, or if you'd just like more information, please contact us at firstname.lastname@example.com.


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Dot's Hop House and Cocktail Courtyard
Dallas, TX
- Wheelchair accessible, Patio/Sidewalk Dining, Takeout
- Dinner, Late Night, Snack Food
- Full bar
- Metered Parking, Street Parking
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Hungry? Of course you are. If you're suffering from decision fatigue, which is not hard to experience in a city with so many dining options, let us help you out with a few suggestions for the best things you need to eat in Dallas th...
Dot's Hop House Resurrected the Ancient Club Schmitz Grill — and its Burger, Too
Wednesday, January 4, 2017 at 4 a.m. by Nick Rallo
The grill was gone. In 2012, Jeff Brightwell, who'd nursed many hangovers at Club Schmitz with a double cheeseburger, peeked through the window of the restaurant. Club Scmitz was gutted. Brightwell saw owners Bob Schmitz and his cou...
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Deep Ellum is changing, and it's changing fast. Almost weekly, a walk down Commerce or Elm will reveal new bars and restaurants popping up faster than you can say "Edison bulb." The latest addition is a grand space with a massive be...


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Steve's Professional Interior Painting and Custom Faux Finishes.
Call for interior painting estimates 612-382-5717. Eagan, MN 55123
Click to see the enlarged version
Faux Finishes
Decorative finishes add elegance to any wall, ceiling or architectural element. Adding such designs as faux finishes and textures can be used on walls or surfaces to create depth and interest. Looking for an exciting way to decorate your home? Than one or more of these painting techniques will give you the effect that you seek.


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Ground Mount Solar Systems
Solar Watt customer since 2011. "We stuck it to the man!" Stuck it to SDG&E, that is. No more paying monopoly electric rates, that go up more every year.
Yelp :
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By : Dimitris M
Solar Watt was a pleasure to deal with from the first meeting all the way through the installation. I first met with Dave Watt (yes his name really is Watt). Dave gave me all the details and options and the difference between the different type systems that people install....
Yelp :
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By : Sandy H.
Ground Mount Solar Systems in San Diego . Orange County . Riverside
Ground Mount Solar vs Rooftop Solar
Solar energy provides homes, businesses, farms, and more with sustainable, renewable, cost-saving energy. The amount of energy used determines the number of solar panels needed. So where do you place these panels? Solar panels can be placed on either the ground or on rooftops. Both ground mount and rooftop solar have their own advantages. Which method is best for you depends on several factors.
Advantages of Rooftop Solar
When you think of a solar panel, the image of square-patterned device atop a roof most likely comes to mind. Rooftop installations offer several advantages over ground-mount including:
Aesthetics Solar panels come in a variety of styles to blend with your existing rooftop and match your preferred style and taste.
Space optimization- With rooftop solar, you are using existing material space rather than a portion of your yard or land that could be used for other purposes.
Speed- It is typically easier to install a panel on the roof than the ground, making installation faster.
Fortification- Rooftop systems help maintain the value of your property by protecting roofs from damage and wear due to weather, aging, and more.
Advantages of Ground Mount Solar
Although most cases favor a rooftop system, there are times when ground-mount solar proves the better option. These include:
Installation size- Sometimes a roof provides insufficient space for the size of the solar panel. Using ground mount solar allows for a larger number of panels which can provide more power. Farms are often a good place for such systems as farms often need quite a bit of power and have the space to accommodate larger ground-mount systems.
Orientation- If your home's roof faces away from the sun toward the North, placing the panel on the ground will allow for better direct sunlight, giving you more power. Shading can significantly reduce the amount of energy available through a solar system, so choose a sunny part of the land for better electricity production.
Fewer upgrades- Roofs sometimes require additional fortification before a panel can be placed. Ground mount systems do not require this work.
Neighborhood restrictions- some neighborhoods forbid rooftop panels for aesthetic purposes. Ground mount systems can be placed so that they are not visible from the street.


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General Workshops
Come DeStress With Us
Stress is a part of everyday life, whether it is traffic on your way to work, your boss moving the deadline for the most important project of the year or a train delay on your way home. If the children fighting or your mother-in- law is here for an extended visit your stress has reached peak levels.
Once we encounter it stress has a way of building up and unless managed properly it can have a negative effect on your physical and mental health.
Your attention span and temper may be short; you may over eat or drink a little too much to ease the pain. Stress can cause insomnia, muscle tension, upset stomach, chest pain, high blood pressure and a lowered immune system just to name a few.
There is no getting around it, stress is here to stay so isn't it time you learn how to manage your stress so it does not cause the symptoms you are experiencing? You deserve it to learn the tools that can put an end to your stress related symptoms and get control of your life back.
We can help you design a Stress Management Toolbox that you can take with you wherever you go. After our class it will be full of tips and techniques that can be used anytime and anywhere to help you manage the stresses of your life.
Schedule a workshop. See the workshops and programs currently available for registration.
Healthy Habits Health You
In order to achieve or maintain optimal health you have to lay the foundation with adequate, high quality sleep, nutritious food and exercise.
To function at your peak performance you need 7-8 hours of sleep to restore and renew your body and mind. When you work in a sleep deprived state you are more apt to make errors or miss important details. If you chronically miss sleep your judgement could be impaired and you will act similar to as if you were drunk. We will teach you ways to relax and tricks to improve your sleeping environment so you have a great night's sleep.
Three balanced meals a day including a bedtime snack is optimal, but if you don't feel like you can do that, just eat when you are hungry and stop when you are full. As long as you eat healthy foods that are low in fat, sugar, and salt such as lean meats, fruits and vegetables you will have the fuel needed to keep you well. We will review tips to help you make good food choices even when you have limited time.
Keep your body moving with a combination of weight bearing and non-weight bearing exercises. If you don't have time for a full work out at least get up and walk around your office or at home. You can also do stretching with bands. In this class we will give you a band and a full workout that can be performed to get all the major muscle groups.


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The recent rally in the dollar index is set to continue as worried investors seek the relative safety of the greenback, Robin Griffiths, technical strategist at Cazenove Capital, told CNBC Monday.
"We're still living in a world where the dollar is the main currency, so when people are worried and risk averse, they panic back into the dollar," Griffiths said.
"We're now having a rally and that rally has definitely got legs on it. The minimum rally is to retrace a half of what it lost last year. That gives you a target of 82 (points), well we're nearly there, but it's quite likely to go to about 90 (points)," he said.
The dollar index was around 80.24 points early Monday.
As the dollar slumped, hedge funds were encouraged to use the currency to invest in global markets, but that "carry trade" is set to unravel, Griffiths said.
Meanwhile, the currencies that were favored by investors instead of dollar are now going to revert to "nearer the right levels," he said.
"Particularly on the euro, the chart is saying $1.25 and for sterling against the dollar, much more likely to go towards $1.45 than the current level," Griffiths said.
- Watch the video above to see Griffiths' view on the FTSE-100 and Shanghai Composite Index.
For the Investor:


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Over the Hill
Paso Robles, Nipomo groundwater rules are a good first step
If my bank account becomes overdrawn, what should I do? First, I should quit spending more money than I make. Then I should manage my money more sensibly.
And if our county's water basins are overdrawn — and they are — what should we do? We should quit pumping more water from our wells than our rains can replace. We should manage our water more sensibly.
On Tuesday, our county Board of Supervisors voted to do just that. Their vote was 3-2 to adopt countywide water conservation rules. One rule I liked will regulate new pumping from the Paso Robles groundwater basin and the Nipomo Mesa area.
The new rules take effect in 30 days. Then, if you want to pump water for a new use from either basin, you must follow the new rules. You must offset your new water pumping with an equal amount of new water conservation, such as turf removal, crop replacement or plumbing retrofits.
In addition, new wells in the two basins must have meters to measure groundwater pumping. There will also be fees.
For the Paso Robles groundwater basin, those new rules will end in 2020. The basin must then have a comprehensive, sustainable groundwater management plan. In August, the Paso Robles basin was No. 4 on a state list of "critically overdrafted" basins. The state has 515 groundwater basins.
Some of the county's other new water conservation rules affect all of its rural areas. Those rules include banning wasteful and ill-timed watering.
Voting to approve the new rules were county supervisors Frank Mecham, Bruce Gibson and Adam Hill. Voting against them were Lynn Compton and Debbie Arnold.
The board also voted to direct county officials to investigate the drilling of deep wells, possibly thousands of feet deep. I wonder if that will include the 1,500-foot well that was drilled in August near Barney Schwartz Park. Two neighbors said it caused their wells to produce less water or go dry.
Supervisor Compton explained her vote against the new rules. She was reported to have said she wanted to pursue ways to increase water supplies instead of just relying on water conservation.
I agree wholeheartedly that we need to increase water supplies, not just conserve. The conservation rules adopted Tuesday won't solve our water problems. They'll just help keep them from getting worse.
Even under these new rules, we'll still pump more water from our underground basins than our rains can replace. We must consider more water sources, such as the reclaiming of treated sewage water. We should also evaluate the desalination of seawater, and we should capture more runoff rainwater. We must think.
Phil Dirkx's column is special to The Tribune. He has lived in Paso Robles for more than five decades, and his column appears here every week. Reach Dirkx at 238-2372 or email@example.com.