text:
Waterfalls (TLC song)
"Waterfalls" is a song by American recording group TLC. It was written by band member Lisa "Left Eye" Lopes with Marqueze Etheridge and Organized Noize for TLC's second album, CrazySexyCool (1994), featuring production by the latter. The song was released as the third single from the album on May 29, 1995 in the United States, followed by a United Kingdom release on August 5, 1995.
Standard artwork (US CD maxi-single pictured)
|Single by TLC
|from the album CrazySexyCool
|May 29, 1995
|Organized Noize
|TLC singles chronology
|Audio sample
|Music video
|"Waterfalls" on YouTube
Often considered the group's signature song, "Waterfalls" was an international hit, topping the charts in many different territories. The song spent seven weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, giving the group their second US No. 1. The song was the No. 2 song of the year on the Billboard 1995 year-end chart. "Waterfalls" also peaked at No. 1 in New Zealand and Switzerland while reaching the top ten in many other countries. "Waterfalls" received critical acclaim, earning two Grammy nominations at the 38th Annual Grammy Awards in 1996 for Record of the Year and Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal.
The song tackled issues of the illegal drug trade, promiscuity and HIV/AIDS. Jarett E. Nolan of BMG noted that "Waterfalls" was the first number one song ever to reference AIDS in one of its verses.[2] The accompanying music video for the song reflected its socially conscious lyrics. With a million-dollar budget, the video was an MTV staple credited for giving the single much of its success. It stayed atop the MTV Video Monitor chart for over a month, making TLC the first act to ever achieve this feat. The video won four MTV Video Music Awards in 1995, including top honors for Video of the Year. TLC was the first African-American act to ever receive the trophy.
- 1 Background
- 2 Music video
- 3 Live performances
- 4 Critical reception
- 5 Legacy
- 6 Accolades
- 7 Track listings
- 8 Charts
- 9 Certifications
- 10 Stooshe version
- 11 Other cover versions
- 12 References
- 13 Bibliography
- 14 External links
"Waterfalls" is an R&B song,[1] written by TLC band member Lisa "Left Eye" Lopes with Marqueze Etheridge and Organized Noize, who also produced the song. Rozonda "Chilli" Thomas and Tionne "T-Boz" Watkins perform the song with Lopes, who also provides a rap. The background vocals are performed by the members of TLC, as well as Debra Killings and Cee-Lo Green. Of Green's involvement, Watkins noted, "He was in Goodie Mob, we grew up together, we go way back. He (sang on the track) and it was amazing! I love his voice."[3]
The lyrics of the song reference 1990s issues such as the HIV/AIDS epidemic and violence associated with the illegal drug trade.[4] Watkins said that it was important for the group to "get the message across without seeming like preaching."[5]
The TLC song shares elements with Paul McCartney's song of the same name, which opens with the line "Don't go jumping waterfalls, please keep to the lake." McCartney himself noted the resemblance, stating "In fact, somebody had a hit, a few years ago, using the first line...then they go off into another song. It's like, 'Excuse me?'"[6]
Music videoEdit
The music video was directed by F. Gary Gray and features Ella Joyce, Bokeem Woodbine, Shyheim, Paul J. Alessi and Gabrielle Bramford. TLC had to force L.A. Reid to get the budget for the music video,[5] which was filmed at Universal Studios Hollywood from June 8–9, 1995.
Like the song itself, the video tackles issues of illegal drug trade and HIV/AIDS, two crises that plagued the 1990s. A young man (Shyheim) goes against his mother's advice to stop selling drugs, and is killed before a drug deal. In other scenes, a woman in a relationship is shown convincing her partner (Alessi) not to use a condom. Afterwards, he looks in the mirror and sees that he has an early symptom of AIDS visible on his face, in the form of Kaposi's sarcoma. He then sees a small photo frame on the dresser, showing all the people she has had sex with previously. The video also intercuts scenes of liquified versions of TLC performing to the song while standing on top of an ocean and performing in front of a real waterfall. At the end of the video, the young man involved with drug gangs appears in ghost form. He tries to hug his mother as she is walking down the streets; every time he tries to hug her, she walks right through him. The bedroom of the couple shows the man's face faded from the picture with the woman sitting alone on the bed; she too fades away, as they both die from AIDS.
The video won four awards at the 1995 MTV Video Music Awards: Video of the Year, Best Group Video, Best R&B Video, and the Viewer's Choice Award. Watkins stated in retrospect that the "video spoke for a whole epidemic."[3]
Live performancesEdit
The song was performed at many awards shows, including the 1995 MTV Video Music Awards and the 1996 Grammy Awards. The group performed "Waterfalls" at the 1995 MTV Movie Awards wearing black tops and silver pants. The performance "was theatrical and kept true to the lyrical story."[7] They also performed the song at MTV's 20th Anniversary on August 1, 2001, making it Left Eye's final performance with the group before her death. In September 1995, TLC performed "Waterfalls" in a medley with "Creep" and "Diggin' on You" on the British TV chart show Top of the Pops, aired on BBC One in the United Kingdom.
Remaining members T-Boz and Chilli performed the song along with Alicia Keys and fellow girl groups En Vogue and SWV at the 2008 BET Awards. Thomas and Watkins appeared on Good Morning America on October 15, 2013 to perform the song during promotion for the greatest hits 20 and the VH1 biopic CrazySexyCool: The TLC Story.[8]
On November 24, 2013, TLC performed at the 2013 American Music Awards with special guest Lil Mama, who performed Left Eye's rap in tribute to her.
Critical receptionEdit
"Waterfalls" has received critical acclaim from music critics. Entertainment Weekly described the song as a "Prince-inspired ballad" that "hint[s] at the artistic greatness TLC might achieve if freed from commercial concerns."[9] Nigel Butler of Sputnikmusic compared the song to esteemed artists such as Sly and the Family Stone, Ray Charles and Stevie Wonder.[10] Butler wrote, "The arrangement and instrumentation is absolutely fantastic - if a bunch of great melodies had an orgy, the result would something a little like this - and the lyrics are the best on an album that maintains a shockingly high standard of songwriting. Left-Eye drops the album's best rap on this track too."[10]
The song was nominated for two Grammys at the 1996 Grammy Awards: Record of the Year and Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal. It was also ranked 13th in VH1's 100 Greatest Songs of the Past 25 Years and 8th on VH1's 100 Greatest Songs of the 1990s.[11] In 2010, Billboard awarded the song the top position of summer songs in 1995.
Billboard named the song #10 on their list of 100 Greatest Girl Group Songs of All Time.[12]
Jeff Benjamin of Fuse wrote that the track was "far more than just another pop hit: The track told a cautionary tale of HIV and AIDS, and its video depicted a man who didn't wear a condom with his girlfriend and later watched his body degenerate in the mirror."[3] AllMusic's Stephen Thomas Erlewine wrote that "Waterfalls, "with its gently insistent horns and guitar lines and instantly memorable chorus, ... ranks as one of the classic R&B songs of the '90s."[13] Sputnikmusic's Butler asserted that "any list of the best singles of the 90s that does not include this in the top 15 — at least — is among the worst lists ever written."[10]
Thomas and Watkins rerecorded "Waterfalls" with Japanese pop and R&B singer Namie Amuro in 2013 for the song's twentieth anniversary.[14] The song peaked at number twelve on Japan's Hot 100 chart. That same year, the song was referenced in the film We're the Millers as Will Poulter performs Lopes's rap.[15] The song also appears in the film's end credits. In 2015, the horror-comedy show Scream Queens featured the song in the pilot and is referenced numerous times in other episodes. It appears in the 2019 Marvel Studios film Captain Marvel, which is set in 1995.[16]
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|MTV Europe Music Award
|Best Song
|MTV Video Music Award
|Video of the Year
|Best Group Video
|Best R&B Video
|Best Direction
|Best Visual Effects
|Best Art Direction
|Best Editing
|Best Cinematography
|Viewer's Choice
|Breakthrough Video
|Grammy Award
|Record of the Year
|Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals
|Soul Train Music Awards
|Best Song of the Year
|Best Video of the Year
|Best R&B/Soul Single – Group, Band or Duo
|NAACP Image Awards
|Outstanding Music Video
Track listingsEdit
US/International CD single
- "Waterfalls" (Single Version) – 4:18
- "Waterfalls" (ONP Remix) – 4:36
- "Waterfalls" (Dallas Austin Remix) – 4:28
- "Waterfalls" (Instrumental) – 4:39
European CD Single
- "Waterfalls" (No Rap Edit) - 3:32
- "Waterfalls" (Single Version) – 4:18
- "Waterfalls" (ONP Remix) – 4:36
- "Waterfalls" (Dallas Austin Remix) – 4:28
- "Waterfalls" (Instrumental) – 4:39
2001 US re-release CD single
- "Waterfalls" (Single Edit) – 4:18
- "Waterfalls" (Dallas Austin Remix) – 4:28
- "Waterfalls" (Instrumental) – 4:42
- "Waterfalls" (ONP Remix) – 4:35
- "Waterfalls" (ONP Instrumental) – 4:37
- "Waterfalls" (Album Version) – 4:39
Waterfalls (20th Anniversary Edition) Digital Single
- Waterfalls (20th Anniversary Edition) featuring Namie Amuro– 4:35
Weekly chartsEdit
Year-end chartsEdit
Decade-end chartsEdit
|Certified units/sales
|Australia (ARIA)[59]
|Germany (BVMI)[61]
|New Zealand (RMNZ)[62]
|Norway (IFPI Norway)[63]
|United Kingdom (BPI)[64]
|United States (RIAA)[66]
*sales figures based on certification alone
Stooshe versionEdit
|Single by Stooshe
|"See Me Like This"
|11 November 2012
|Digital download
|Warner Music UK
|Marqueze Etheridge, Lisa Lopes, Organized Noize
|Future Cut
|Stooshe singles chronology
"Waterfalls" was recorded by British girl group Stooshe originally recorded for their self-titled debut album, released through Warner Music UK on 11 November 2012.[67] Stooshe chose to release a cover of "Waterfalls" after meeting TLC member T-Boz, who had previously congratulated them on their acoustic cover of the song.[68] The band have turned the track's rap, performed by Lisa "Left Eye" Lopes, into a three-part harmony.[68] It was announced in April 2013 that the group's cover of "Waterfalls" would not be appearing on their debut album, with member Karis Anderson claiming they "are pretending [it] didn't happen".[69]
Critical receptionEdit
4Music's Trent Maynard stated that Stooshe's take on "Waterfalls" has "smooth, layered harmonies and a easy-breezy barbershop feel."[68] Digital Spy's Lewis Corner gave the song three out of five stars and commented "It must be said that soft flourishes of brass and light guitar strums blend with the girls' on-point vocals smoother than a Starbucks cappuccino. However, after proving themselves as one of 2012's most promising original pop acts, covering a much-loved '90s anthem still feels like a strange move."[70] Jon Hornbuckle from So So Gay gave the song four stars and stated "Covering a song as famous as TLC's global hit 'Waterfalls' could backfire on a girl group, but Stooshe shouldn't be worried. Their take on the classic 1995 hit is yet another opportunity for them to showcase their fantastic voices and is a sure-fire hit, with its radio friendly vibes and sing-along chorus."[71] He thought the song sounded "fresh" and Stooshe had managed to put their own stamp on the track.[71] Hornbuckle added "If only all cover tracks were like this – a re-interpretation, rather than a copy-and-paste cover."[71]
Music videoEdit
Stooshe released an official lyric video for the track on 3 October, before unveiling the official music video on T4 on 7 October.[67] The video, directed by Matt Stawski, features cameo appearances from fellow TLC members T-Boz and Chilli.[67][72] Hornbuckle commented "The video is perhaps the most colourful promo from a girl group for years, and we love the choreography the girls pull out on the chorus. Stooshe make being cool, classy and fun all at once look effortless."[71]
Track listingEdit
- Waterfalls (Remixes) - EP[73]
- "Waterfalls" – 3:27
- "Waterfalls" (Moto Blanco Remix) – 7:07
- "Waterfalls" (DJ Q Remix) – 5:46
- "Waterfalls" (Show 'n' Prove Remix) – 3:16
- "Waterfalls" (Acoustic) – 3:41
- CD single
- "Waterfalls" - 3:28
- "See Me Like This" - 3:29
Chart performanceEdit
|Charts (2012)
|Hungary (Rádiós Top 40)[74]
|Ireland (IRMA)[75]
|Scotland (Official Charts Company)[76]
|UK Singles (Official Charts Company)[77]
Release historyEdit
|Release date
|United Kingdom[73]
|11 November 2012
|Digital download
Other cover versionsEdit
- The song was parodied by "Weird Al" Yankovic as "Phony Calls", a reference to prank calls, on the 1996 album Bad Hair Day.
- Japanese pop group Cosa Nostra had a song on their album Love the Music (released in March, 1995) called Be Yourself that's exactly the same song but with different title and lyrics.
- The band Eve 6 covered the song and appears on their singles "Here's to the Night" and "Promise".
- A parody of this song, titled "Lavaflows," also appeared at the end of an episode of Bill Nye the Science Guy.[78]
- Smooth Jazz player Steve Cole made a cover of Waterfalls on his 2000 album Between Us.
- The rap portion of the song is parodied in "Chow Down" by Willam Belli, Detox, and Vicky Vox.[79]
- Hanson played a cover version of the song on their Anthem World Tour in 2013.
- New Zealand rock band Six60 released a cover of Waterfalls as part of an iTunes session in December 2013.[80]
- The song was performed by Jason Sudeikis, Jennifer Aniston, Emma Roberts and Will Poulter in the American comedy film We're the Millers, with Poulter's word-for-word cover of Lisa "Left Eye" Lopes' rap verse gaining the approval of the two remaining members of TLC.[81]
- Bette Midler covered the song for her 2014 album It's the Girls!.
- The song also appeared in the pilot and first-season finale episodes for the FOX horror-comedy Scream Queens.
- Gwen Stefani, Alicia Keys, Blake Shelton, and Adam Levine performed an acoustic version of "Waterfalls" in a promotional internet video to promote The Voice.
- Meshell Ndegeocello covered the song (without the rap section) on her 2018 album Ventriloquism.
- ^ a b Werthman, Christine (August 1, 2017). "The Best 90s R&B Songs". Complex. Retrieved September 11, 2017.
- ^ Inc, Nielsen Business Media (August 12, 1995). "Billboard". Nielsen Business Media, Inc. – via Google Books.
- ^ a b c Benjamin, Jeff (October 22, 2013). "TLC Reflect on No. 1 Hit "Waterfalls," Detail Cee Lo's Involvement". Fuse. The Madison Square Garden Company. Retrieved October 25, 2013.
- ^ Peck, Jamie (June 17, 2011). "Flashback Friday: TLC, 'Waterfalls'". MTV Buzzworthy. Viacom. Archived from the original on October 29, 2013. Retrieved October 25, 2013.
- ^ a b Lambe, Stacy (October 23, 2013). "Behind The Song: TLC's "Waterfalls" + "No Scrubs" + "Unpretty"". VH1. Viacom. Retrieved October 25, 2013.
- ^ "Paul McCartney". The A.V. Club. Retrieved May 9, 2018.
- ^ "MTV Movie Awards Performances: TLC, 'Waterfalls'". MTV. Viacom. Retrieved October 25, 2013.
- ^ Hayner, Chris (October 15, 2013). "TLC performs 'Waterfalls', other hits on 'Good Morning America'". Zap2it. Tribune Media Services. Retrieved October 25, 2013.
- ^ "Music Review: 'CrazySexyCool'". Entertainment Weekly. Time Inc. November 18, 1994. Retrieved October 25, 2013.
- ^ a b c Butler, Nick (June 26, 2005). "Review: TLC – CrazySexyCool". Sputnikmusic. Retrieved October 25, 2013.
- ^ "Breaking News – VH1's '100 Greatest Songs of the 90s' Grunges Up as Nirvana's 'Smells Like Teen Spirit' Takes the No. 1 Spot". TheFutonCritic.com. Retrieved January 12, 2012.
- ^ "100 Greatest Girl Group Songs of All Time: Critics' Picks". Billboard. Retrieved July 11, 2017.
- ^ "CrazySexyCool – TLC". AllMusic. All Media Network. Retrieved October 25, 2013.
- ^ Campbell, Nigel (June 14, 2013). "Heart It Or Hate It: TLC Re-Record Iconic 'Waterfalls' Track With Namie Amuro". Instinct. Instinct Publishing Inc. Retrieved October 25, 2013.
- ^ Angermiller, Michele Amabile (August 26, 2013). "TLC on 'We're the Millers' Use of 'Waterfalls': 'It Warmed My Heart' The group TLC reunited and performed it for the 2013 American Music Awards with Lil' Mama". The Hollywood Reporter. Prometheus Global Media. Retrieved October 25, 2013.
- ^ Shepherd, Jack. "Captain Marvel soundtrack: All the 90s songs featured in MCU film starring Brie Larson". The Independent. The Independent. Retrieved March 23, 2019.
- ^ "Australian-charts.com – TLC – Waterfalls". ARIA Top 50 Singles. Retrieved June 14, 2016.
- ^ "Austriancharts.at – TLC – Waterfalls" (in German). Ö3 Austria Top 40.
- ^ "Ultratop.be – TLC – Waterfalls" (in Dutch). Ultratop 50.
- ^ "Ultratop.be – TLC – Waterfalls" (in French). Ultratop 50.
- ^ "Top RPM Singles: Issue 2742." RPM. Library and Archives Canada.
- ^ "Top RPM Adult Contemporary: Issue 2769." RPM. Library and Archives Canada.
- ^ "Top RPM Dance/Urban: Issue 2744." RPM. Library and Archives Canada.
- ^ "Hits Of The World". Billboard. October 21, 1995. p. 57. Retrieved June 22, 2018.
- ^ "Hits of the World". Billboard. October 7, 1995. p. 79. Retrieved June 22, 2018.
- ^ "Lescharts.com – TLC – Waterfalls" (in French). Les classement single.
- ^ "Offiziellecharts.de – TLC – Waterfalls". GfK Entertainment Charts.
- ^ "Íslenski Listinn Topp 40 (12.8.1995 - 18.8.1995)" (PDF) (in Icelandic). Dagblaðið Vísir - Tónlist. Retrieved April 3, 2018.
- ^ "The Irish Charts – Search Results – Waterfalls". Irish Singles Chart. Retrieved March 24, 2018.
- ^ "TLC Chart History (Japan Hot 100)". Billboard. Retrieved November 20, 2018.
- ^ "Nederlandse Top 40 – week 38, 1995" (in Dutch). Dutch Top 40 Retrieved March 24, 2018.
- ^ "Dutchcharts.nl – TLC – Waterfalls" (in Dutch). Single Top 100. Retrieved December 5, 2017.
- ^ "Charts.nz – TLC – Waterfalls". Top 40 Singles.
- ^ "Norwegiancharts.com – TLC – Waterfalls". VG-lista.
- ^ "Official Scottish Singles Sales Chart Top 100". Official Charts Company.
- ^ "Swedishcharts.com – TLC – Waterfalls". Singles Top 100.
- ^ "Swisscharts.com – TLC – Waterfalls". Swiss Singles Chart.
- ^ "Official Singles Chart Top 100". Official Charts Company. Retrieved January 25, 2019.
- ^ "Official R&B Singles Chart Top 40". Official Charts Company. Retrieved December 5, 2017.
- ^ "TLC Chart History (Hot 100)". Billboard. Retrieved December 5, 2017.
- ^ "TLC Chart History (Adult Contemporary)". Billboard. Retrieved December 5, 2017.
- ^ "TLC Chart History (Adult Pop Songs)". Billboard. Retrieved December 5, 2017.
- ^ "TLC Chart History (Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs)". Billboard. Retrieved December 5, 2017.
- ^ "TLC Chart History (Pop Songs)". Billboard. Retrieved December 5, 2017.
- ^ "TLC Chart History (Rhythmic)". Billboard. Retrieved December 5, 2017.
- ^ 1995 Australian Singles Chart aria.com (Retrieved September 2, 2008)
- ^ "RPM Top 100 Hit Tracks of 1995". RPM. Library and Archives Canada. Retrieved January 25, 2018.
- ^ "RPM Top 50 Dance Tracks of 1995". RPM. Library and Archives Canada. Retrieved January 25, 2018.
- ^ 1995 French Singles Chart Disqueenfrance.com Archived March 7, 2012, at the Wayback Machine (Retrieved January 30, 2009)
- ^ "Top 100 Singles - Jahrescharts 1995" (in German). GfK Entertainment. Retrieved January 25, 2019.
- ^ "Single top 100 over 1995" (PDF) (in Dutch). Top40. Retrieved April 19, 2010.
- ^ "Jaaroverzichten - Single 1995" (in Dutch). MegaCharts. Retrieved January 25, 2019.
- ^ "End of Year Charts 1995". Recorded Music NZ. Retrieved December 3, 2017.
- ^ "Årslista Singlar – År 1995" (in Swedish). Topplistan. Archived from the original on February 16, 2016. Retrieved July 2, 2019.
- ^ 1995 Swiss Singles Chart Hitparade.ch (Retrieved September 2, 2008)
- ^ "Top 100 Singles 1995". Music Week. January 13, 1996. p. 9.
- ^ "Billboard Top 100 – 1995". Archived from the original on August 15, 2009. Retrieved August 27, 2010.
- ^ "1995 Year End Chart: R&B/Hip-Hop Songs". Billboard. Prometheus Global Media. Retrieved January 27, 2012.
- ^ a b "The ARIA Australian Top 100 Singles 1996". The Australian Record Industry Association Ltd. Archived from the original on November 2, 2015. Retrieved November 8, 2015.
- ^ Geoff Mayfield (December 25, 1999). 1999 The Year in Music Totally '90s: Diary of a Decade – The listing of Top Pop Albums of the '90s & Hot 100 Singles of the '90s. Billboard. Retrieved October 15, 2010.
- ^ "Gold-/Platin-Datenbank (TLC; 'Waterfalls')" (in German). Bundesverband Musikindustrie. Retrieved September 28, 2011.
- ^ "Top 50 Singles Chart, 3 September 1995". Recording Industry Association of New Zealand. Retrieved January 5, 2012.
- ^ "Trofeer" (in Norwegian). International Federation of the Phonographic Industry – Norway. 1996. Archived from the original on November 5, 2012. Retrieved December 28, 2017.
- ^ "British single certifications – TLC – Waterfalls". British Phonographic Industry. Select singles in the Format field. Select Platinum in the Certification field. Type Waterfalls in the "Search BPI Awards" field and then press Enter.
- ^ Jeffrey, Don (20 January 1996). Best-selling Records of 1995. Billboard. Retrieved January 5, 2014.
- ^ "American single certifications – TLC – Waterfalls". Recording Industry Association of America. If necessary, click Advanced, then click Format, then select Single, then click SEARCH.
- ^ a b c Copsey, Robert (October 3, 2012). "Stooshe unveil new single 'Waterfalls' - listen". Digital Spy. Hearst Magazines UK. Retrieved October 7, 2012.
- ^ a b c Maynard, Trent (October 3, 2012). "News: Stooshe Cover TLC's Waterfalls". 4Music. Box Television. Retrieved October 7, 2012.
- ^ "Stooshe disown 'Waterfalls': 'We're pretending it didn't happen'". Digital Spy. Retrieved April 3, 2013.
- ^ Corner, Lewis (October 26, 2012). "Stooshe: 'Waterfalls' - Single review". Digital Spy. Hearst Magazines UK. Retrieved October 28, 2012.
- ^ a b c d Hornbuckle, Jon (November 5, 2012). "Singles of the week (5 November 2012)". So So Gay. So So Gay Ltd. Retrieved November 14, 2012.
- ^ "Dance and choreography" (PDF). Bloc Agency. Retrieved October 19, 2012.
- ^ a b "Waterfalls (Remixes) - EP". iTunes. Apple Inc. Retrieved October 28, 2012.
- ^ "Archívum – Slágerlisták – MAHASZ" (in Hungarian). Rádiós Top 40 játszási lista. Magyar Hanglemezkiadók Szövetsége.
- ^ "Chart Track: Week 46, 2012". Irish Singles Chart.
- ^ "Official Scottish Singles Sales Chart Top 100". Official Charts Company.
- ^ "Official Singles Chart Top 100". Official Charts Company.
- ^ "Bill Nye the Science Guy - "Lavaflows"". Youtube. Retrieved November 16, 2012.
- ^ Merwin, Hugh (March 20, 2012). "New Video Declares 'Chow Down at Chick-fil-A, Even If You're Gay'". New York. Retrieved March 30, 2013.
- ^ http://nz.news.yahoo.com/a/-/entertainment/20297864/six60-record-exclusive-itunes-session/
- ^ "TLC on 'We're the Millers' Use of 'Waterfalls': 'It Warmed My Heart'".
- The Billboard Book of Number 1 Hits (fifth edition)


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How To Best Use theArtStack.com
TheArtStack.com is a new social networking site, that on the surface, seems to be the resulting mixture of Pinterest and Instagram. While ArtStack does allow users to curate content in a similar manner to Pinterest (instead of "pinning," you'll be "stacking"), the network is specifically reserved for both creators and consumers of fine art.
An exclusive art community isn't the only unique feature of this popular site. Pictures are bigger than what you'll see on Pinterest and the content feels much more valuable, simply because of the exclusivity of the site's members and the fact that it is by invite-only. Though the site is in beta mode, it does allow you to request an invite from the home page or via your Facebook account.
You'll also get all the standard features that you would expect from any good social network site in 2013– the ability to follow people, upload your own work, comment on other people's material and a newsfeed filled with content from the people you're following is all part of the gig.
It's essentially a social mechanism that allows you to become a virtual art collector.
For those of you who are in fact, artists, it's a tremendous tool that can help you get a lot of recognition, as the site is designed to be an "art discovery tool."
So, here are a few ways that you can use one of the most recent social media fads in the art world to market your artwork and make a name for yourself, at least as far as the online art enthusiast community is concerned:
1. Adding your own artwork — ArtStack provides an "Add to my Collection" option once you're signed up with a profile. There, you'll be able to upload your own photos and sort them into different groups and collections.
Remember that ArtStack is designed for artists who want to showcase their work, so it's not "frowned upon" to upload a ton of your own stuff. That's what the site is there for.
Once you upload, you'll have the ability to name, sort and comment on your own material.
2. Stacking other people's artwork — As previously mentioned, you won't hurt your credibility by adding a lot of your own artwork, and if it's good, you'll see it get stacked by other members. That being said, it can definitely help your credibility if you stack other people's art work along with your own material.
Even while it is exclusive to artists, it's still considered social networking, which is always going to be a world of give-and-take. If you want to get recognition, you've got to make the effort of giving it yourself.
If you curate content that you think is good and worthwhile, other's will see that and find your own material more interesting and credible.
3. Following other users and networking — Just like Twitter or Pinterest, ArtStack allows you to follow and be followed by other users. Since the site is still invite-only, this is a great way to network with other artists, share your work and connect with people who share the same passion as you.
Make sure that you avoid following a bunch of people in the hope that they'll follow you back. Stick to following those who you actually find interesting, and chances are that you'll make some helpful connections.
Take Advantage of the Exclusivity
If you're lucky enough to be a member of ArtStack, you have the opportunity to take advantage of a powerful tool in its earliest stages, while it still has value. Over time, social networks tend to lose their value because of spam, content inflation and constant abuse (Twitter is a good example) from people who just want to use it as a get known, or get rich quick scheme.
Fortunately, ArtStack hasn't fallen victim to that yet and is still holding its value, so if you're lucky enough to get the invite, take advantage of it. It's certainly a viable art promotion option.
Marcela De Vivo is a freelance writer and online marketing professional from Southern California. She specializes in social networking, web hosting and content development, and understands how a networking site, like ArtStack, can help artists from all over the world gain exposure and recognition. Follow her on Pinterest today!

subset: commoncrawl


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Château Perron La Fleur
AOC Lalande de Pomerol Red
Having been in the Massonie family for three generations, Perron is now the responsibility of Betrand Massonie, whose drive, passion, technical skill and respect for the property's exceptional terroir have contributed massively to its recent renaissance. One of the top wines in the appellation and a rising star of the Right Bank.
Выберите миллезим
- 2009
Миллезим 2009
This wine shows tints of purple and deep, intense garnet, and a bouquet, open from the outset, of ripe fruit (cassis and plum) combined with spices (cinnamon and clove). After a warm attack, the palate offers up flavours of liquorice with notes of menthol. The product of an outstanding vintage, Château Perron La Fleur is a balanced, harmonious wine with soft, silky tannins.
To drink from 2012 onwards. This wine has a great ageing potential.
86 points - Wine Advocate - Février 2012
Mention - Guide Hachette des Vins 2013


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by John Galt
August 1, 2014 18:58 ET
Actually, it is "DUCK" season as in BOHICA it is time to duck and cover.
Wall Street demonstrated that every now and then there is a wee bit of logic involved when the Federales are not muddling into the so-called US free markets but on the alarming side of the ledger is the non-stop actions of our government as somehow, some way, we appear to be damned intent on becoming the Great Britain of 1938 which sets the world on fire a year later.
Just sigh.
Buckle up as i will have a thing or two to say about the insane world we live in and yup, discuss those wascally wabbits who infected our stowk mawkets dis week!
To listen click on the link below at 9 pm ET which for those of you who voted for Obama is 8 pm CT, 7 pm MT, and 6 pm PT.
Just Measures Radio Network


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I wish I could describe and recount the many fun and exciting things that have happened here in the last two months, but really what we've mostly done is watched/played/practiced baseball. Hours and hours and hours of our lives this Spring have been spent at baseball fields. I feel I should probably get used to this phenomenon, as it is highly unlikely to change in the coming years. Not as long as I live with these three. And their father.
On the bright side, there is almost nothing my boys love as much as they love baseball. So despite the fact that we eat bagged lunches just about every single Saturday and Sunday, despite the fact that I have an impressive and unwanted t-shirt-and-sunglasses tan already, despite the fact that there is a fine layer of red-baseball-field-dust covering my car and house, despite the fact that my kitchen sink is occupied at least two nights a week by white baseball pants that have to soak in hot water and stain remover in order to remain white, I am enjoying it. Come hell or high water, I will enjoy it.
I'm soaking in their excitement. I'm embracing the sunflower seeds they constantly spit all over the ground, the bazooka gum they are chomping whenever their mouths are not occupied by the aforementioned seeds, and the numerous hot dogs we've purchased when the healthy snacks I pack for every game are eaten before the second inning ends.
Although all three boys are playing baseball, B is playing soccer. So I get to watch her play an hour a weekend, then I get to sit and chat with her for the seven-plus-hours we sit together watching baseball. She can't escape me, sitting there on the sidelines of the ball field, and so we chat. We laugh at the boys. We discuss Harry Potter. We contemplate the best kind of rainbow loom bracelets. We debate the appropriate age to have your first cell phone. It's important stuff, I tell you.
Don't get me wrong, I complain. I cringe at how many times I've had to fill my gas tank this month after driving across two counties to watch ball games every weekend. I am completely OVER packing lunches. I regularly curse the coach who chose white pants for the uniforms. It's not all sunshine and roses.
But these little boys are getting big fast, and my girl, closing in on double digits, won't be willing to sit and chat with me all day for very much longer. I'm doing my best, though I fail regularly enough, to enjoy these crazy, hectic days. I know they'll be over in a metaphorical blink of an eye and I'll look back and miss them.
So I cheer, I encourage, I watch with bated breath as my 7-year old pitches against kids three years older and two feet taller than him. I discuss the merits of neon rainbow loom bands versus sparkly rainbow loom bands. I pack peanut butter and jelly and apples and string cheese and homemade granola bars. And I do my best, every day, to not take for granted all these hours at the godforsaken baseball field.


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1050 Hwy 51 South, Fernwood, Mississippi 39635
Total inspections: 1
Last inspection: June 16, 2000
Classification: Sawmills and Planing Mills, General
Last enforcement: Unknown
Formal enforcement: 0
Informal enforcement: 1
This facility has not been out of compliance in the past 12 quarters.
View detailed information from the Environmental Protection Agency. Note: There are no mandated limits for power plant discharges into waterways for many common chemicals such as arsenic, lead and mercury. However some facilities are monitored for these pollutants by state regulators and report the findings to the E.P.A.


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We can deliver our shows in your hall to whatever size it
will take - we are happy to do shows to a larger audience remembering that people need to be able to sit
comfortably and to see and hear us!
A usual day includes up to three of the same theme show perhaps with a special time with younger ones - we work around a core show modifying for age and ability. Each show lasts approx 50 - 60 mins and we need about 15 - 30 minutes to reset between shows.
If you choose to do two shows in the day we can also do two workshops in the classroom linking to the show you have booked - see our main show pages for workshops that complement the shows
Every school is different so we are happy to work with you to create an event that suits you - some of the things you might want to include:
an after school science club for a small group at the end of a show day
a teacher CPD hands on session after a show day
an extended up close session in the show room for an older class
a shorter session with reception
a brief intro in assembly
Call us and have a chat!
Click to download more about organising a visit, including our Terms and Conditions


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Michael Matthews
Oxnard High Oxnard, CA Class of 1976
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Edited by Eli Eliav
ISSN 0033-6572 (print) • ISSN 1936-7163 (online)
May 2008
39 , Issue
A randomized CIE L*a*b* evaluation of external bleaching therapy effects on fluorotic enamel stains
Michael Kn�sel, Dr Med Dent/Rengin Attin, Dr Med Dent/Klaus Becker/Thomas Attin, Dr Med Dent
Objective: To evaluate the effect of external bleaching on the color and luminosity of fluorotic stains and adjacent, normally mineralized enamel areas by means of CIE L*a*b* colorimetry. Method and Materials: Eighteen adolescents with mild to moderate fluorotic stains were randomly assigned to either bleaching group A (n = 9) or control group B. Eligibility criteria were fluorotic stained maxillary incisors or canines and the informed consent of the participants and their guardians. Using a colorimeter, CIE L*a*b* values of maxillary incisors and canines were assessed at baseline (T1) in the center of the fluorotic stained area (F1) and at adjacent, normally mineralized enamel areas (F2). Then, external bleaching with Illumin� office (30% hydrogen peroxide, Dentsply DeTrey) was performed for 60 minutes, followed by color reassessment (T2). After 14 days (T3), a 2-week home bleaching period with a daily bleaching time of 1 hour with Illumin� home (15% carbamide peroxide, Dentsply DeTrey) was conducted with subsequent color determination (T4). Results: After completion of bleaching therapy, 96.0% of all fluorotic areas (F1) and 100% of normal enamel areas (F2) showed a significant change within group A, compared to 29.4% in control group B. Comparing the collective DE (L*, a*, b*) of F1 and F2, 60.0% of all areas showed significant differences after completion of bleaching therapy, compared to 88.0% initially. Of group B sites, 82.4% showed color differences in the beginning (T1) and 88.2% at the end (T4). Conclusion: Whereas a single 1-hour session of in-office bleaching with 30% hydrogen peroxide does not significantly affect the color and luminosity of fluorotic teeth, a 14-day period of home bleaching leads to an assimilation of the color of the fluorotic stain with the color of surrounding enamel areas due to different responses of sound and fluorotic enamel to the bleaching regime. (Quintessence Int 2008;39:391�399)
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Another shot I took from a recent walk to Zig Zag Falls in the Mt Hood National Forest. Despite the problem of midday sun, I still liked this photo I took from slightly down the Little Zig Zag River.
Follow Hood Photography on Facebook and Instagram! Thanks!
Shared On:
Our World
Sweet Shot Tuesday
Nature Notes
ABC Wednesday


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Yes. I know. Snow days are the last thing you want to think about right now. To imagine the biting cold and razor sharp winds that seemingly shatter any layer of outerwear is not something to talk about while the early September temperatures are sill in the 80's (and 90's in Chicago!) However, while completing a reading assignment for one of my classes, the book, Life's Operating Manual by Tom Shadyac presents the pleasant memories of elementary school snow days.
Tom remembers:
There's a lot one can learn from a snow day. Yes, there's the joyful experience of a blessed day of play – and blessed by the authorities, nonetheless! – but there's also something telling in the unbridled glee at escaping the chain link and linoleum life that is school. Adulthood offeres nothing that compares. Oprah has her giveawys, but the madness of instant gratification goes as quick as it comes; a day of play hits us kids deep (165).
He's right, isn't he? Who didn't like a snow day? The liberating feeling of hearing the cancellation blared over the radio or the TV and immediate need to jump right back into bed. It was only a matter of time before dreams of snowballs and snow forts would creep into your mind and you would have to throw on a snowsuit and journey out into the pristine and crunchy snow.
When can we do that now? Sure, there are times when the road conditions are too bad that it's almost impossible to leave the house. It seems though, that most responsibilities we have disregard the impenetrability of the streets. And, if you are graced with the opportunity to stay home, I'm sure there is a pile of laundry that needs to get done, carpets to vaccuum and dishes to wash? So then, even the snow day turns into an opportunity for work. When was the last time you were able to slow down and enjoy the surroundings around you? Tom is right, adulthood does not offer any opportunity that equals the unparalleled freedom that a snow day offers school children.
So what does Pope Francis have to do with all of this? Well have you read his prayer intention for the month of September? (BTW, the Pope has a couple of prayer intentions every month. Check them out here.) One of the intentions the Holy Father wants the Universal Church to keep in their minds this month is:
Value of Silence. That people today, often overwhelmed by noise, may rediscover the value of silence and listen to the voice of God and their brothers and sisters.
Consider this a snow day without the inclement weather associated with it! What a beautiful intention!! It is true that silence has become an endangered species in our lives. Silence is so unfamiliar to us that we grow uncomfortable with the idea of it. This apprehension probably comes out of the nervousness of what we might hear if we are silent. What happens if we actually hear God's voice speaking to us? Will He ask of us something that is too hard for us to handle? Will we even hear God's voice? The only way to know the answer to these questions is to try. It's not easy but it's worth it.
Since returning to Chicago, I've tried to get down to the chapel early before Lauds and Vespers. To sit there in the silence allows me to decompress and examine my attitudes and actions of the day. It is in this silence that I have been able to fall in love with Jesus again. The Lord has such a small, still voice that it is easy to bury His voice under the noise of the day. However, when I get back in sync with Jesus again, I suddenly come to an awareness that is crystal clear. Jesus provides the clarity that fills the silence and refocuses me for the journey.
But the Holy Father is not just praying that this Holy Silence opens us up to the voice of God. In addition, the Pontiff also prays that in the silence we can better hear our brothers and sisters. So often do I find myself realizing I have a response in my mind before my conversation partner has even said anything. That's not much of a conversation….rather it's a monologue. Going through life preaching a monologue is not satisfying. We lose so much if we don't listen. Not only to God, but to those around us.
The Pope's other prayer intention, by the way is for:
Persecuted Christians. That Christians suffering persecution in many parts of the world may by their witness be prophets of Christ's love.
How timely. There is so much hurting around the world, but this day especially in Syria and the surrounding nations. Not to mention, there is concern around this country as to whether or not military action will be taken. Due to the gravity of this situation, the Holy Father has called today a day of prayer and fasting. He is asking that all around the world, people pray. There are plenty of opportunities to pray for peace, both in Rome and at St. Norbert Abbey. Here at Holy Spirit House, we are also encouraged to fast and pray. Through these small sacrifices, we unite with other Catholics around the world in the plea for peace.
So, if you are ever going to take a "snow day," please take it today. Pray in the silence. Pray for peace. Listen to Jesus! Let Him use you in ways that promote the inherent image of God found in each person, in this country and a far.
God of all time,
I bring before you the joys, hopes and aspirations,
the trials, the suffering and the pain
of all your people in every part of the world.
God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob,
hear the cry of the afflicted, the fearful,
of those who have no hope;
Send your peace [to Syria and] the Middle East,
to the whole human family;
stir the hearts of those who call upon your name,
[so they may] walk humbly
the path of justice and compassion.
"The Lord is good to those who trust in Him,
with soul that seeks him" (Lam 3: 25).
[Adapted from Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI's prayer for peace on the occasion of his visit to Jerusalem].


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Where the STEM jobs are
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We are looking for individual looking for a career in secure communications to join our team of over 150 experts carrying out research projects. You will develop the skills needed to contribute to the delivery of a wide range of programmes for military, government and commercial customers to support the protection of national critical infrastructure.
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Why Mutual Funds are like Popcorn!
The Canadian mutual fund industry runs on the theory that Canadian investors will voluntarily pay annual fees to mutual fund salespeople in return for selling a mutual fund and providing advice. The main players in this business are a) the investor, b) the mutual fund company, and c) the salesperson.The key to implementing this strategy has been to ensure that the investor is not provided with either a minimum service standard for the "advice" component nor a summary of the fees being paid for the "advice" service.
If we focus on the retail investor; the investor is paying an annual MER which covers everybody's expenses and profits. In fact, the investor is the only source of money and the only person who is not guaranteed a profit every year. As such, we can conclude the embedded cost of the "advice" is equal to the fee paid by the investor less all expenses involved in fund manufacturing and sales.
Formula: Investor Cost is defined as: MER= manufacturing cost + sales cost + advice costs
The Advice: When fund companies talk about "advice" being provided they do not attempt to explain why the advice would need to be facilitated through the fund company's salesman. Since fund companies are not promoted as being in the business of providing advice, it would seem that the advice component would be a distraction from the core business of managing money. Fund companies do have expertise in managing investments and that is where they are most efficient. In many cases the fund company will outsource the "advice" component to an independent salesperson. These salespeople generally call themselves "financial planners" or "advisors", although these titles mean nothing specific in terms of knowledge. The "advice" component is non-defined in terms of either quality or frequency of the advice investors should receive. As such the salesperson does not need to meet any standard for advice nor confirm any advice has been provided in order to collect the advice fee. In fact, the commission for providing the advice is often paid to the salesperson up front before any follow up advice service would be expected to take place.
COGS: Fund companies are in the manufacturing business. As such the fund companies are fully aware of the accounting term "COGS" or cost of goods sold. The COGS for a fund company is likely in the order of 0.4-0.5% based upon the wholesale pricing that is available. Some would argue the number is more likely between 0.2-0.4% but let's assume the higher number to be conservative. Adding a margin for strong profits, the manufacturing company can thrive on a price of 0.7%. This is on the high side of the estimated cost range and provides a profit margin of 75%-100%.
Having solved for what appears to be a generous but reasonable manufacturing cost, the formula can be updated as below:
Investor Costs (MER) = manufacturing cost + sales cost + advice cost
= 0.7% + sales costs +advice costs
Sales: Mutual fund manufacturers also need to sell their product. The cost of the sales process varies based upon the sales channel(s) the company uses to distribute their funds. Some companies such as Steadyhand sell manufactured products directly to investors. As such, a large investor can achieve MERs as low as 0.77% for a Canadian equity fund and just below 1% on foreign equity funds. Steadyhand is not a manufacturer, but is a low cost distributor of custom funds they create through investment management firms who provide wholesale services to Steadyhand. Steadyhand does not utilize an "advisor" sales force, but handles sales via phone and internet which is lower cost and quite efficient.
Alternatively, bank mutual funds are sold by a "captive" sales channel. The bank's employees are most often salaried and the salary cost is spread across multiple product lines. This sales channel is low cost and efficient as the banks' leverage internet sales, discount brokerage sales and branch staff sales. TD bank offers a balanced mutual fund through its e-series for 1.28%. The e-series does not provide an advice component so the fee is comparable to Steadyhand. The Steadyhand pricing reflects a small focused sales channel approach, while TD represents a large multi-channel sales approach, neither of which is advice focused.
The combined manufacturing and sales channel costs for Steadyhand are assumed to be mid way between the lowest Canadian and foreign equity MERs. Subtracting the 0.7% manufacturing cost leaves a sales channel cost of 0.14% ( 0.84 - 0.7 = 0.14%). TD sales costs using the balanced fund as the average would be 0.58% (1.28-0.7= 0.58%). Let's assume the sales channel expense of a fund company is on the higher end of the range provided by the two examples, and we can set sales channel expenses at 0.5%. Our formula now looks like this:
Investor Costs = 0.7 + 0.5 + advice costs.
Given the average MER for Canadian equity funds is approximately 2.4%, the formula can be solved as follows:
Investor costs= manufacturing cost + sales cost + advice cost
2.4% = 0.7% + 0.5% +advice cost
Advice cost= 2.4% - 0.7% -0.5% = 1.2%
The advice component is thus valued at 1.2%. That is half the cost of a typical equity fund MER in Canada. In effect, if this is correct, fund companies are in the primary business of selling advice since it accounts for the largest component of their MER fee.
U.S. Comparison: If we were to use an example of typical U.S. mutual fund fees the formula appears to work reasonably well. Based upon an average MER of 1.4% for US equity mutual funds the formula looks like this:
Investor costs= manufacturing cost + sales cost + advice cost
1.4% = 0.7% + 0.5 % + 0.2%
The advice cost is 0.2% and the fund companies are definitely in the primary business of manufacturing and selling investment funds. If we assume U.S. funds have a lower cost environment and economies of scale, the advice component may be as high as 0.3%-0.4%, but it is still the smaller component of the various fees in our formula. Regarding economies of scale, the Canadian fund firms manage hundreds of billions of dollars in mutual funds yet the largest firms such as Investors Group have amongst the highest fees. This suggests economies of scale are not passed down the line by fund companies in Canada.
Popcorn Theory: A similar approach can be used to look at the movie theatre business. This comparison would provide a glimpse of what may be wrong with the conclusion that fund companies are really charging fees for "advice" as opposed to investment skills.
When my wife and I head to the theatre it is for the express purpose of seeing a movie. We understand the evening will cost a set amount of money and we are prepared to spend accordingly. We do not divide the cost of the event into "movie cost" and "snack costs". We understand we will have popcorn, a soft drink and we will watch the movie and it will cost around $30.00 for the evening.
The theatre owner, however, does care how we spend our money. Movie theatres make extremely large profits from selling popcorn. Expenses in preparing popcorn are very low, popcorn profit margins are very high, and little skill is needed to train staff. The actual movies by contrast are expensive to make and thus expensive for a theatre to purchase. Movies can be big winners or they can be expensive duds for the theatre owner. On the surface, it would appear the theatre owner would be better off if they focused on selling popcorn and not on the low margin movie component of the business. However, here is the catch: in real life nobody would travel to a theatre just to buy popcorn. The movie is the sizzle that creates the opportunity to sell the popcorn! Without the movie there is no opportunity to distribute the extremely profitable popcorn!
Applying the popcorn theory to the investment business; few investors would buy mutual funds without the confidence they were getting valuable investment and planning advice. In essence, investors do not seek mutual funds, they seek advice!
The fund companies know that the "advice" component attracts investors who otherwise would not purchase mutual funds. The "advice" performs the same function as the "movie" does.... it attracts clients who can then be sold a very profitable secondary product. In the case of investors, the very profitable secondary product is the mutual fund.
Further proof that this comparison is correct is found in the high volume of expensive mutual funds sold with an advice commission, versus the much smaller sales volume of lower cost, direct sale mutual funds. Investors overpay for the mutual fund to get the perceived advice they are seeking. The main difference is moviegoers know what the popcorn costs them while investors face a hidden "advice fee" buried in the MER costs.
The fund companies know that the "advice" component attracts investors who otherwise would not purchase mutual funds. The "advice" performs the same function as the "movie" does.... it attracts clients who can then be sold a very profitable secondary product. In the case of investors, the very profitable secondary product is the mutual fund.
Further proof that this comparison is correct is found in the high volume of expensive mutual funds sold with an advice commission, versus the much smaller sales volume of lower cost, direct sale mutual funds. Investors overpay for the mutual fund to get the perceived advice they are seeking. The main difference is moviegoers know what the popcorn costs them while investors face a hidden "advice fee" buried in the MER costs.
In the next blog we will delve a little deeper into why the Canadian mutual fund fee model does not make sense and how that contributes to Canada's exorbitant mutual fund fees.mike


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Apparently there is a term for what I have been interested in for good deal of time now. It's called Folksonomy: a collaboratively generated, open-ended labeling system that enables Internet users to categorize content such as Web pages, online photographs, and Web links.
folksonomist nox
- thinking of ways to simplify things in his spare time.


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For those who would really like to enjoy a great movie this weekend. I just got out off the theater and I think that it was one of the greatest movies I've seen recently, by recent i mean the last couple of years. It had drama, romance, science, adventure pretty much everything you may look for in a movie. Needless to say, the director of the movie is James Cameron, the director of Titanic. You better go and see it right now, not kidding !! :)
Enjoy your weekend loves,


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Bed Bugs San Antonio Professional Exterminator Services
If you have a bed bugs San Antonio infestation, you might be tempted to get rid of them on your own. While this might work in some cases, it might not always be effective. That is why it is essential that you seek professional extermination services. Here are some of the top reasons why it is advisable for you to get professional help.
Treatment is the only method of control
You need to have the infested area treated well so as to contain the infestation. The longer you wait to contain the situation, the worse the problem will get, so get the affected place treated as fast as possible. The bed bugs San Antonio can increase rapidly and spread to other areas within a short period of time.
A professional will identify the right treatment method to use depending on your particular situation. They will also come up with an effective control plan for you so that you can avoid such problems in future.
Save your business
There are some businesses that are at high risk of infestation. This includes hotels, movie theaters, buses and other areas where there are a lot of padded areas. In such cases, it might be impossible for you to treat the affected area on your own due to the huge size of your facilities.
You will need a team of professionals to help you out. You will also need to have the professionals carry out periodic inspections on your property to ensure that there has not been a reoccurrence of the issue.
Stubborn creatures
Bedbugs are highly resilient and even the most diligent person can fail to exterminate all of them. They can live for long periods of time without food. This means that you cannot starve them by closing off an area. The good thing about hiring a professional exterminator San Antonio service provider is that they have the equipment and the skills required to get rid of the pests.
Health problems
While bedbugs do not cause any serious health problems, some people have an allergic reaction to their bites. This can leave you with rashes and swellings all over your skin. This can be quite uncomfortable, especially if you have to suffer this on a regular basis. That makes it imperative for you to get rid of the bugs as soon as possible.
Status symbol
Having a bedbug invasion is not a status symbol that you are an unhygienic person. Since these bugs are attracted to humid areas, every home is a target and anyone can be affected, so when you are affected, do not be embarrassed to get help. After extermination, suitable preventive techniques will help to keep the problem at bay.
Get useful tips
Apart from helping you to get rid of the problem, a licensed and trained professional can give you tips on how to keep the creatures away. This will minimize the chances of you having a reoccurrence.
Hiring a professional will save you a lot of sleepless nights.


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For me, one of the best parts of special events comes from sharing it with others. The thrill of experiencing events through their eyes gives me insight to what makes their hearts sing. Plus, shared memories stay with people longer than things, so it's important to me to build history with those around me.
These days, life happens so fast it's hard to hold a meaningful conversation with people, but experiences like Cavalia Odysseo allow one to pause while igniting every sense so you connect with the show and those around you on a significantly deeper level.
Visually, this show is magnificently elegant, strong and intimate! While the feats of horses' speed matched with humans' strength astound you, this relies on an unseen trust between them. The horses represent the most elegant breeds with flowing locks and sharply defined features. The costumes mirror this emanating a regal, ethereal feel. All pictures and videos aside, one cannot experience the full power of Odysseo without witnessing it live.
The music guides your emotions softening the beat of the thundering drums and hooves that drive your pulse. As each acrobat performed their jaw-dropping stunts, my heart leapt with anticipation. One could smell the gentle perfume of horses, mixed with other fun flavors of a circus show.
Our Three-Thumb Review was actually Four-Thumbs up. My 5-year old niece added new perspective to our usual tween, teen and mom-review. Though she loves and rides horses, I worried about the length of the show but she sat glued on the edge of her cousin's lap (and intermission arrived in perfect time)!
Despite my initial prediction, the trick riders, not just the horses, amazed her. My tween and her teen brother found rare common ground loving the physicality of the acrobats, their drums and the kangaroo stilts!
I relived the best of my youth days spent horsing around, plus reignited my belief in beautiful fairy tales come true (including mine).
Couple Odysseo with dinner for an unforgettable date night, or follow Odysseo with the most acrobatic carousel ride at nearby Irvine Spectrum.
Odysseo extended their stay so get your tickets and please wander back and let me know how it touched you!
#OdysseoOC #ThreeThumbReviews


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The Chimney Swift's WETT Inspection
Wood Energy Technology Transfer – Many insurance companies in Canada require an inspection by a WETT certified technician before issuing insurance.
Chimney Swift News
Be an Eco-Friendly Wood Burner
Most wood burning appliances that are being manufactured today are highly efficient. The advanced technologies that have been implemented significantly reduce the amount of smoke and pollutants that older wood burning systems produce. Highly efficient [...]
5 Good Wood Burning Practices to Follow
A warm fire is so inviting on these cold days of winter. Whether you have a fireplace or wood burning stove, the heat that emanates from a wood burning fire offers such a cozy place [...]
Buying a house with a fireplace and getting a "WETT inspection".
You've just purchased the "perfect house" with the fireplace you've always dreamed of having. The fireplace looks great and you can just see yourself relaxing by a crackling fire with family and friends. Question: Is [...]
Thousands of satisfied Customers , Let's See What Some Have To Say?
We enjoy helping our Customers and providing quality and value chimney sweeping and inspection services.
We strive for Customer Satisfaction in service and support!
Firstly, may I thank you very kindly for your prompt attention to our request and to your informative report as to the nature of our problem with this fireplace. Your report was very detailed and is most helpful to the Board of Managers at our Church in determining what is the best method of approaching the repairs. Once again, thank you and kindest personal regards. Yours very truly,"
Thank you for your work at the church. I called three chimney contractors. You were the only one who returned a call even though you were quite busy. Thank you for doing the work one month ahead of schedule. It was very much appreciated by all the congregation. Yours truly,
Thank you for the great work you folks did yesterday on McElderry Rd, Guelph. As you may recall I have had this work done primarily to meet conditions of sale of this property. Along with this work the purchasers have requested some kind of documentation that would assure them that the stove is operational and meets safety standards.


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This new reception has been arranged in the "B12" building made by our agency in 2008. The visitor flows have been reviewed as well as the exterior arrangements. By SLA Architecture Visit SLA Architecture website
Office Building and Auditorium at Sanofi's Headquarter France, by SLA Architecture
New construction of 5 level of offices in Sanofi's headquarters and a large 310 seat auditorium. By SLA Architecture Visit SLA Architecture website
Dental Clinic, by BUPA Architectures
Urban approach_ The project is located in front of the junction of three roads including avenue d'Eysines important axis, at the heart of a urban district with a very characteristic typology of Bordeaux. The project involves the transformation of an old restaurant into a dental clinic. This old building made of stone was set…
ZAC CLAUDE BERNARD MIXED USE DEVELOPMENT, by AZC ATELIER ZÜNDEL CRISTEA
The urban development zone (ZAC) Claude Bernard is situated in the 19th arrondissement of Paris, between the boulevard Macdonald in the south and the highway in the north. The operation of this building for residential use (by all ages) adheres to the logic of a stacking of trays. Business space and the entrance to the…
BON SECOURS HEALTH AND SOCIAL CARE DEVELOPMENT (PHASE 1), by AZC ATELIER ZÜNDEL CRISTEA
From a suburban hospital to an urban community healthcare centre The collection of buildings that makes up Notre-Dame de Bon Secours is to be found at 68 Rue des Plantes, in southern Paris' 14th arrondissement. Bordered to the south and the east respectively by Rue Giordano and Rue des Plantes, the site has an…
LOUIS DREYFUS ARMATEURS HEAD QUARTER, by AZC ATELIER ZÜNDEL CRISTEA
1- Context and challenges The exceptional natural setting of Suresnes – an undulating landscape, like an amphitheatre – orientates the town towards the river Seine and the Bois de Boulogne. Pacemar SAS, holding company of Louis Dreyfus Armateurs, purchased one of these modern blocks, built in 1989. The original building, some 4,300 sq m built…
ILOT Y HOUSING, by AZC ATELIER ZÜNDEL CRISTEA
Our objective was to build high-quality collective housing. Each housing unit incorporates within it particular qualities of life, embodied by the balconies, the terraces, the patios, the large height of the spaces, the private gardens, the views, the multiple orientations… Our building seeks to transform its urban and construction constraints into veritable assets. Opening onto…
New offices Competition, by SLA Architecture
Competition for the disgn of a new offices' building in Metz, France. By SLA Architecture Visit SLA Architecture website
Helicopters – Delivery Center, by SLA Architecture
Extension of a delivery hall and construction of new offices. By SLA Architecture Visit SLA Architecture website
Showroom Silvera, Paris, by SLA Architecture
New showroom for the famous brand "Silvera", in Paris.Designed in collaboration with Patrick Jouin. By SLA Architecture Visit SLA Architecture website
Eiffel Tower Restaurant, by SLA Architecture
Renovation of the restaurant on the Eiffel Tower in Paris.Project designed in collaboration with the designer Patrick Jouin. By SLA Architecture Visit SLA Architecture website
Rungis – International marketplace, by SLA Architecture
Study for building a new storage and ripening warehouse in the International Market of Rungis, France. By SLA Architecture Visit SLA Architecture website
SNCF National Framework contract, by SLA Architecture
This Framework contract concerns all type of industrial or offices buildings, that could be constructed or rearranged. 3 year terms contract. By SLA Architecture Visit SLA Architecture website
A09 – Flaship "Maison Abriza" – Paris, Opéra, by officine TNT ARCHITECTURE
Located in an ancient registrered Napoléon III building, fews steps from the Opéra Garnier, the flagship of that new perfumes brand settles down in a narrow boutique with narrow proportions, high and thin Looking foward to enhance the spirit of this new brand, the Architects wanted to conceive a delicated project They invented the architectural…
COROLLES WAREHOUSE, by URBANICA
Redevelopment and enhancement of the Corolles underground warehouse Award winning project in the "Public Spaces" category – Défis Urbains 2016 The currently abandoned underground spaces are in bad condition and should be redeveloped to gain a high quality in usage, atmosphere, comfort and security.Project dedicated to the quality of underground spaces, such as car parks…
4 metro stations line 14, by AZC ATELIER ZÜNDEL CRISTEA
Our project concerns four new Parisian metro stations that will extend line 14 past its current St. Lazare station terminus, with locations at Pont Cardinet, Porte de Clichy, Clichy St. Ouen, and Mairie de St. Ouen. Of particular importance for us in the envisioning of this project is the willingness to engage in coordinated urban…
Sports center in Neudorf, by AZC ATELIER ZÜNDEL CRISTEA
The Neudorf area of Strasbourg is undergoing a major programme of redevelopment to fill the void that currently separates the city centre from its southern neighbourhoods. The sports centre is one of the major new projects for the neighbourhood. Its volume and its position are very visible from the crossroads at the Route du Rhin….
Planchette sheltered housing, by AZC ATELIER ZÜNDEL CRISTEA
In the Parisian urban context of a high density, the project's site presents an interesting potential. The form of the building is the result of a pragmatic approach and a determination to express the volume in terms of "a material that fills the negative" of the site in which it rests. Facing ruelle de la…
Avenue Leclerc office building, by AZC ATELIER ZÜNDEL CRISTEA
The project consists of the renovation of an office existing building of 10.544 m², the redesign of the facade taking into account the overall structure, the renovation of the technical premises, and the optimizing of office planning. The building requires a new architectural point of departure; the new project is justified in light of the…
Algerian Consulate, by SLA Architecture
Arrangement of the Algerian Consulate in Paris. By SLA Architecture Visit SLA Architecture website
IBM Studio, by SLA Architecture
Rearrangement of an office floor including a meeting room, a lounge and a workshop area (Core Team Workspace and Mediascape). By SLA Architecture Visit SLA Architecture website
Sanofi's headquarter Masterplan, by SLA Architecture
Planning and architectural design of the historic headquarter of Sanofi. From 1997, SLA Architecture developed the masterplan and designed this site building by building. We've designed six buildings in total, representing more than 800,000 sqft, in a 68 hectares operating site. This construction called "Azur" has been nominated at the SIMI Award 2010 in the Research…
VIP Airport Lounge, by SLA Architecture
Design of the world biggest airport VIP lounge, including restaurants, relaxation areas.Capacity : 620 people Project designed by Brandimage, Néonata (Noé Duchauffour Lawrence) and SLA Architecture © Eric Gizard, ADP, Brandimage, SLA Architecture By SLA Architecture Visit SLA Architecture website
Research & Development Buiding, by SLA Architecture
Construction of a R&D building hosting laboratories, offices and catering areas, in a stress pyrotechnic area. By SLA Architecture Visit SLA Architecture website


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The Chi-Cal Rivers Fund is a public-private partnership working to restore the health, vitality and accessibility of the waterways in the Chicago and Calumet region by supporting green stormwater infrastructure, habitat enhancement, and public-use improvements.The Chicago and Calumet watersheds comprise a highly engineered system of waterways that provide many benefits to the people and wildlife of the region. They move treated wastewater away from urban centers, help to manage flood waters, provide economically important conduits for commercial shipping, tourism and recreational boating, and offer vital habitats for many resident and migratory wildlife species. Despite these services, the waterways have been degraded by many stressors. Dangerous flooding, impaired water quality, habitat degradation, and limited safe public access have significantly reduced the ecological, economic and community values of the system.
With an emphasis on these waterways, the Fund will achieve its impact primarily by supporting projects through a competitive grants program focused on three goals:
By slowing, storing and filtering runoff, these actions will help reduce combined sewer overflows and discharge of contaminants and sediment to local waterways. This work will reduce property damage and health risks associated with flooding and reduce municipal costs of managing and treating stormwater. In addition, it will improve habitat for many fish, birds and other wildlife and promote safe and economically important public uses associated with the river systems of the region.
Since 2013, the Fund has awarded 41 grants totaling $8.3 million in grants. Together these projects are:


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Faith stretches beyond borders, bridges gaps, and breaks down boundaries; faith is in essence a unifier. At City of Refuge Christian Church of Greenbrier, faith in God and faith in each other are the cornerstones for our ministry. It is what strengthens our commitment to the community, our neighbors, and our country.
Worship & Praise Ministry
Finding a place for spiritual growth and a place to build relationships can be difficult. Our ministry is a perfect place for younger people to gather and build a deeper, more meaningful relationship with God and each other. Open to everyone, this ministry is designed for people of all ages. Come and be a part - we'd love to see you here.
Women Empowering Women (W.E.W.) Ministry
Crisis Hotline (757) 587-4202
The W.E.W ministry prayer meetings, named Women at the Well, takes place monthly every 2nd and 4th Tuesday from 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. For more information, please contact Sis. April Hamilton @ 757-201-5150.
Jail Ministry
The heart of this ministry is to reach men and women, who are incarcerated, with the Word of God. To give them hope to show them that through the Word of God they can be transformed into His Image. By giving Jesus Christ a chance, they have nothing to lose but EVERYTHING TO GAIN. Most importantly through Jesus Christ, "who they were is not who they are." Ches
"Thank you for sending Pastor Stubbs to speak with me yesterday. It was refreshing to speak with a man that has had similar experiences and has lived and triumphed through to overcome. He led me to rededicate my life and I am feeling much better." Anonymous
"Pastor Stubbs, I want to thank you for coming to do bible studies in the jail and sharing God's word with us. They have moved me to another locations and we would love a visit from you, as well as a word from God. I will be praying for you and will be visiting your church when I am released." Anonymous
Veterans Ministry
Pastor John G Stubbs Sr. served 20 years honorably in the United States Army. Being a retired veteran our Pastor fully understands the complexity of the Veterans Affairs and disability claims. Because of this, his heart is huge for helping veterans and family members receive the benefits they are entitled to. Pastor Stubbs is a lifetime member of DAV Chapter 26, and the Chapter's Assistant Chaplin where he assists in consulting with veterans in their claims and benefits process.
CORCC Greenbrier Food Bank
3rd Thursday of each month
4 pm. - 6 pm.
"City of Refuge Christian Church of Greenbrier is an equal opportunity provider."
Harvest Assembly of God Food Bank
Mondays 5:00-7:00 pm, Wednesdays 10:00 am-Noon and Fridays 4:00-6:00 pm.
Trailrer marked HOB (House of Blessing) behind church.
525 Kempsville Rd., Chesapeake, VA 23320


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We love seeing your photos editing with MCP's Photoshop actions and Lightroom presets. After you edit your photos with MCP products, please share some of your favorite images on the MCP Facebook Wall. With the updated Facebook Fix actions, this task is easier than ever. After preparing and watermarking your photo or before and after images, visit www.facebook.com/MCPActions/.
Follow the easy steps listed below to display your work. We would love you to list what MCP actions or presets were used on your photos. We are excited to see more of your work – you are welcome to post images edited with any of our free or paid products.


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Friday, November 20, 2015
Day of the Day: November 8, 2008 - Punta Arenas, Chile
With a half day to do some exploring, we decided on a visit to the Seno Otway Penguin Colony.
Magellanic Penguins (For a larger version, click any image.)
The weather was what we soon learned to be fairly "seasonal", i.e., cool, overcast and very windy, which didn't seem to phase some of the other indigenous species, including Darwin's rhea:
and the ubiquitous sheep:
We ended the day with an unexpectedly, wonderful meal at Damiana Elena Restaurant. Here's my Tripadvisor review.
The next day we drove to Puerto Natales, from which we would venture to Parque Nacional Torres del Paine.
Related posts:
Thursday, June 11, 2015
June 11 Photo of the Day: Ottawa, Ontario
Canadian Museum of Nature, Ottawa, Ontario © 2015 Peter Marble
May 9, 2015 – Having opted to leave my DSLR in the hotel, I grabbed this shot looking up Metcalfe Street with my iPhone from inside the Queens' Lantern. The glass tower, named in honour of both Victoria and Elizabeth II, was completed as part of the 2010 restoration. For more information about the history of the museum, see the Historical Timeline.
(For a larger version, click the image.)
I spent several enjoyable hours wandering through the museum's exhibits and would happily go back the next time we are in Ottawa. For information about the tentacles hanging from the ceiling, see Guy Romain's blog post Creating Light in the Lantern.
Wednesday, March 4, 2015
March 4 Photo of the Day: Wilderness, South Africa
Indian Ocean Surf, Wilderness, South Africa © 2015 Peter Marble
(For a larger version, click the image.) February 15, 2012 – On the second day of our Garden Route tour, after a very pleasant stay at the 88 Baron van Reede Guesthouse in Oudtshoorn, we visited Cango Caves and then drove our rental Honda Jazz across the Swartzberg pass on the unpaved Route 328 to Prince Albert. Lunch at the Prickly Pear was "okay", after which took the "long cut" via R407 through De Rust back to Oudtshoorn and then on to the The Dune Guest Lodge in Wilderness.
This was by far the most "lux" accommodation of our month in Africa. Our room overlooked the Indian Ocean, with a walkway down to the beach. We enjoyed the sound of the pounding surf both nights. Next stop: Knysna.
Wednesday, February 25, 2015
February 25 Video of the Day: Chao Phraya Ferries
River traffic on Chao Phraya - Bangkok, Thailand © 2015 Peter Marble December 8, 2004 – Okay, so I'm digging deep here folks, but one of the best things we found to do in Bangkok was hopping on and off the Chao Phraya ferries. This video shows the long tail boats, Wat Arun and the general river mayhem, which we thoroughly enjoyed.
Sunday, February 22, 2015
February 22 Photo of the Day: Humber Bay, Lake Ontario
Frozen morning - Toronto, Ontario © 2015 Peter Marble February 20, 2015 – On the way into work Friday morning I pulled over for this grab shot with my phone.
At -18 degrees Celcius, the "smoke" rising from the water and ice surface of the lake was beautiful. I got as far as the other side of the car, but couldn't summon the willpower to walk out to the boardwalk for a closer look.
Wednesday, February 11, 2015
February 11 Photo of the Day: Cambodia
Key Maker and Cyclists - Siem Reap, Cambodia © 2015 Peter Marble December 14, 2004 – Early on our last day in Siem Reap, our adopted Tuk-Tuk driver, Mr. Tan, drove us into town for a final walk-about:
Traffic into the city centre was busy:
We passed numerous construction sites for new 5-star hotels where most work was done by hand.
Before heading to the airport, Lesa made one last attempt at sending/receiving email:
Monday, February 9, 2015
February 9 Photo of the Day: Chilean Patagonia
Vapor Amadeo at San Gregorio in Magellanes, Chilean Patagonia © 2015 Peter Marble November 15, 2008 – On our way back to Punta Arenas from El Calafate via Rio Gallegos (affectionately known as the ugliest city in Argentina:
Apparently she was built in Liverpool in 1884, sold to J. Menéndez of Punta Arenas in 1892 and finally beached here in 1932.


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Veggie Fellas (Caldmore, Walsall)
Ok, so we'd heard about this place via facebook, and thought we'd give it a go. Like many of the similar food joints in the west midlands area, Veggie Fellas is going with growing trend of offering meat substitutes and alternatives to the mixed grills. Veggie Fellas also have Vegan options available.
Veggie Fellas is situated in the heart of the Caldmore area of Walsall. Walsall is well connected to the M6 motorway and can be easily reached via junctions 7, 9, and 10 of the M6. Veggie Fellas is under 10 mins away from the Bescot stadium, and is about 20 to 25 mins away from the Hawthorns and Villa Park. Parking is an issue here though as the surrounding streets are very busy.
Appearance & Entry:
Veggie Fellas sits in a row of shops on Caldmore Road, its had a new shop front and decorated well inside. When we visited we were the only customers, although phone orders and deliveries were being taken regularly whilst we were there. It's difficult to comment on whether it's a family friendly place whilst you are the only customers there, but I'd imagine the target audience is families. There are wash room facilities here and they are clean. The staff are helpful and courteous throughout our visit.
Please note there are no alcoholic drinks at this venue. The selection of soft drinks is very limited (Pepsi, Vimto, and Sunkist all dispensed – there's no bottled or canned drinks here folks), there are also a selection of milkshakes available.
It Begins:
We order our food at the counter, as its empty we take a seat and our food arrives in under 10 mins. The table and cutlery are clean.
The Food:
Peri Peri Veggie Fellas Sizzler: the sizzler arrives and the portion size is a healthy size for 2 growing lads sharing. The mixed grill comprises of mock chicken, mock fish, sausage, mock lamb and Paneer, all resting on bed of onions, green peppers, and mushrooms all dressed with Peri Peri sauce. The presentation is spot on as can be seen in the picture. It actually came out sizzling to our table.
The sizzler doesn't just look great it tastes great too. The texture and spice are spot on. I'm going to put my neck on the line and say we've not had a better sizzler than this to date, it really is that amazing.
Now check out the haloumi burger and fries:
I opted for a haloumi burger with fries to accompany the sizzler. Unfortunately after the high of the sizzler this didn't quite match that. I was surprised that the haloumi wasn't as salty as I'd have imagined, which is a good thing. The size is small, but then haloumi is quite heavy and filling. There was just no wow factor with the burger, or maybe we were spoilt with the sizzler.
The location isn't the greatest and parking is a struggle. The sizzler as we've mentioned is the best we've had so far. The burger was missing the wow factor but was still a decent effort. As we mentioned before there was a lack of atmosphere when we visited, but they do take plenty of phone orders and make deliveries.
For the above reasons we give it a 7.8 – if you go you must try out the peri peri sizzler – it won't disappoint, and don't forget they have a vegan alternative menu too.


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On 17 December 2014 the world woke up to quite unexpected glad news. Cuba and the US amicably resolved one of the world's thorniest Cold War conflicts existed between them. However, the highlight of the news was Pope Francis who brokered the diplomatic talks between the countries. He played a crucial role in smoothing the path of negotiations between the two leaders over 18 months, facilitating constructive dialogue on delicate matters, resulting in solutions acceptable to both the parties. Pope Francis could successfully mediate between Barak Obama and Raul Castro, albeit the three personalities stand on poles apart by their ideologies.
Pope Francis is the best reference point when one considers mercy in connection with communication. Communication, for Pope Francis, is a moment of fruitful human encounter, which opens up a space for dialogue, mutual understanding and reconciliation. In many of his speeches Francis uses encounter and mercy interchangeably.
Mercy is intrinsically connected to human communication. Mercy is something that is communicated, though its form and formats may vary. Mercy is shown, received and experienced. The Lord says, "I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy and will show clemency on whom I will show clemency" (Ex. 33:19); I will keep my mercy for him forever (Ps 89: 28).
This chapter primarily thrives on the three World Communications Day (WCD) messages issued by Pope Francis with themes, Communication at the Service of an Authentic Culture of Encounter (2014); Communicating the Family: A Privileged Place of Encounter with the Gift of Love (2015); Communication and Mercy: A Fruitful Encounter (2016).
Communicating Mercy
The mission of the Church is "to announce the mercy of God" (MV 12). The Holy Father is raising two issues here: a) the act of announcing, and b) the content of the announcement. The former relates to Church's communication and the latter to being merciful. Both are effectively accomplished only through a culture of encounter. Mercy, communication and encounter are inherently connected in the life of Church.
Francis picks up the parable of the Good Samaritan in his first WCD message of 2014 to demonstrate how media can communicate mercy, facilitating a fruitful encounter. He thinks that the starting point of a genuine and ideal communication is in establishing "neighbourliness" with the other. Francis interprets the parable Good Samaritan, which he thinks is a parable about communication:
"The Good Samaritan not only draws nearer to the man he finds half dead on the side of the road; he takes responsibility for him. Jesus shifts our understanding: it is not just about seeing the other as someone like myself, but of the ability to make myself like the other. Communication is really about realizing that we are all human beings, children of God. I like seeing this power of communication as 'neighbourliness'" (WCD Message 2014).
Communication is all about searching for common grounds, above all a neighbourly ground. Indeed as the etymology of communication suggests, exchange of ideas and emotions can occur only on common planes. Put in another way, positive exchange of ideas, emotions and resources make things common.
The common ground Francis could find for Obama and Castro, to bring them around a table for conversation, was their being responsible leaders serving the humanity. Francis could become a good neighbour to both Obama and Castro by facilitating a meaningful encounter between the two. In response Obama said that Pope Francis had led [them] by "moral example, showing the importance of pursuing the world as it should be, rather than simply settling for the world as it is." Now, which other mediator can the world name than the Catholic Church for bringing nations together and establishing peace? Mind that each of the trio hails from totally opposing ideologies – one, a religious pastor, another, a secular capitalist and, and the third, a communist atheist.
The mission of the Church consists then in being a good neighbour to the world. Similarly, Church's communication involves various instances of encounters rather than mere technologized and mediated communication. Through various acts of mercy the Church encounters the world with the merciful face of Christ. These acts indeed provide human touch to Church's mediated communication. The communicative style of Pope Francis serves to be excellent example of such a communication and can be emulated. Each of his simple acts was a silent sermon preached aloud. Such communication – one that stems from heart and spontaneous – can generate positive outcomes, as it facilitates true encounters.
Right from day one of his pontificate the world was witnessing to Francis' communication and acts of tenderness. Some critics initially commented these were gimmicks, but today even the hardened reporters are realizing that, for Francis, homeless shelters, prisons and soup kitchens are not mere photo-ops. They are the places he prefers to be and they are the places in which he wishes to see the Church. These acts of mercy are real communicative moments as well as instants of true encounter.
Francis' emphasis on the essence of communication as being good neighbour is significant in a global cultural context marred by socio economic disparity. Ours is a society that is divided and fighting on various planes such as economic, political, ideological, and even religious. We are confronted with many forms of exclusion, marginalization and poverty (WCD 2014). In such a context it is a herculean challenge to be communicating like a good neighbour; nevertheless, Francis proves that this is possible through a variety of little acts of kindness.
Mercy: The Content of Communication
The content of Christian witness and communication is none other than Jesus Christ, the embodiment of the Father's Mercy (MV 8). Francis has made this very clear in Evangelii Gaudium. A missionary Church – which "goes forth" – needs to "take the initiative, go out to others, seek those who have fallen away, stand at the crossroads and welcome the outcast" (EG 24).
An authentic missionary community, which has experienced the power of the Father's infinite mercy, possesses the indomitable desire to show mercy. Church's communication, essentially understood as being good neighbour, is significant in a global cultural context marred by socio economic disparity. Our society is fragmented and fighting on various planes such as economic, political, ideological, and even religious. We are confronted with many forms of exclusion, marginalization and poverty (WCD Message 2104).
A very practical aspect of preaching and practicing the Gospel of Mercy is to say 'no' to an economy of exclusion and inequality, an economy that kills (EG 53-54); to reject the new idolatry of money (EG 55-56); to disown the financial system which rules rather than serves (EG 57-58); and to eradicate inequality which spawns violence (EG 59-60). The 'balm of mercy' we apply on humanity shall help it encounter the Kingdom of God already present in our midst! (MV 5).
However, much of today's media and communication is aimed at promoting consumption or manipulating others. This indeed aggravates social margins deterring us to recognise our real neighbour. This is where the communication channels of the Church can bring about a very positive impact. The Christian media channels shall uphold the unity and dignity of human life. The Christian media professionals need to work for promoting human life, ethical values and a just society. The best communication recipe Francis could offer the world is: "A bit of mercy makes the world less cold and more just."
Culture of Encounter
During his visit to Washington, D.C., on 23 Sept. 2015, towards the end of a long, eventful and exhausting day, Pope Francis walked in through the back door of the chapel of the Little Sisters of the Poor without any prior information! There, he casually met the community of the Sisters for about 15 minutes in an unscheduled meeting! Having listened to their suggestions, stories and assurances of prayers the Pope made it a point to meet also an elderly nun who was suffering from dementia. It didn't matter much to the Holy Father that the sister was not able to speak! He leaned over her, took her hand in his and traced the sign of the cross on her forehead before moving on. The Pope's readiness to meet and spend time for a sister who could hardly communicate with him proved that she is as valuable as any other sister in that community.
For Francis, who is a 'spirit filled evangeliser,' each of his communication is an occasion of encounter with people and hence a moment of mercy. Such encounters are possible only for those people who have personally encountered Jesus, just as saint Paul had on the road to Damascus, and Pope Francis, at a confessional when he was a youth of seventeen. The stories of these encounters in fact invite others to encounter Christ and Church with fresh spectacles. We witness to Pope Francis inaugurating the culture of encounter.
The culture of encounter has deeper spiritual and social significance. The culture of encounter is a covenant culture. Covenant implies solidarity and it creates solidarity, both social and ecclesial solidarity. Though, today's culture is markedly a culture of temporariness and exclusion, the culture of encounter we foster would create bonds rather than destroying it.
Communication: A Human Achievement
Communicating mercy in order to create the culture of encounter is not an easy task. It has to be learned through training and the best context for this learning, according to Francis, is one's own family. It is there that we learn and experience the joy of social interaction, listening to others, speaking respectfully, mutual encouragement, unconditional forgiving and expressing our views without negating that of others (WCD Message 2015). Family is the avenue that offers possibility for little encounters that make richer bonds and meaning.
Only those who go out of themselves in communication can become a true point of reference for others. Personal engagement is the basis of the trustworthiness of a communicator (WCD Message 2014). The examples of communicative and merciful encounters from Francis' life should help us deconstruct one of our rudimentary notions that best communication has always to be mediated through technologies. No, communication is a human achievement (WCD Message 2014).
Language of Communication
In the great Jubilee year of Mercy, Francis aims at transforming Church's very language of communication. The language and gestures of the Church "must transmit mercy, so as to touch the hearts of all people and inspire them once more to find the road that leads to the Father" (WCD Message 2016). While every member of the Church has to get accustomed to this merciful language, its pastoral application has greater implications. Some reforms initiated by Pope Francis would elucidate what sort of communication language and gestures he expects the pastors to have.
Cancer of Clericalism
Clericalism uses a language of arrogance and self-satisfaction. It generates a multi-tiered, class-conscious society of the rulers and the ruled. It creates ambition for ecclesiastical status and power. Francis purified the curia and ousted bishops who were extravagant and luxurious. He cautioned pastors not to "act like ambitious corporate executives, but humble evangelists and men of prayer, willing to sacrifice everything for their flocks."
In one of his addresses at a Conference for New Bishops, he further explained the details of this language. Pastors need to take care of the flock by welcoming fellow priests with magnanimity, journeying with the flock, and remaining with the flock. Bishops must have affection for their priests, and be present in the diocese to reach out to the 'existential peripheries' where there is suffering, solitude, loss of human dignity. Bishops are to serve with humility. He condemned the "spirit of careerism," and called it "a cancer."
Temptation of Triumphalism
The clerical language often assumes the tone of triumphalism. A triumphalist Church according to Francis "is a halfway Church." It impedes Christians. With regard to pastor's body language and verbal language, the Pope suggested not having 'stiff neck' and 'lugubrious face.' Christian language must be devoid of curse, foul language, grumbling and back-biting, discord and gossip. Instead our words must be turned into a blessing (WCD Message 2015).
Not only our language devoice of triumphalist expressions, but our life as well; because it would be reflected in all aspects of pastoral life. In what was supposed to be a Christmas greeting to the Roman curia, the Pope listed 15 ailments of the Church, much of which pertained to refine the communicative language and gestures of the pastors and bishops. Some items included: being extremely busy and indifferent to ordinary people, not being sensitive to suffering people in the society, having spiritual dementia, rivalry and vainglory, hypocritical life and existential schizophrenia, not making self evaluation and introspection, and the desire for hoarding and material profit. Finally, we shall be reminded that the Catholic pastors must have "the odour of the sheep" (EG 24).
Homily: The Vital Communication of Priest
Sharing the Word of God in a homily is a fundamental responsibility and reserved right of a priest. Priests cannot excuse themselves for not having communicative skill; instead they take all efforts to train themselves in providing a rich homily that is digestible to all. However, many priests use the pulpit as a secure place to abuse, and scold people. Providing a prepared, well studied and first hand homily would be a great act of mercy a priest can give his people. An effective homily requires prayer, preparation, awareness about the congregation, contextual reflection on local and global community as well as an invitation to the Holy Spirit.
Church: A Home for All
Various examples of Francis's communicative style described in this chapter proves that sincere and effective communication has reconciling effects. His communication is honest and devoid of 'diplomatic play.' He did not fear his mediation between Obama and Castro would derail when he provoked some conservative Republicans in the US by castigating financial speculators and called their greed "the devil's dung."
By example he leads all the pastors as well as the media professionals to see the world as one, and every human being as a neighbour. Francis hopes that even the digital technological media can create an environment rich in humanity; a network not of wires but of people. Francis is positive about Christian witness reaching the peripheries of human existence as well as "the ends of the earth" (Acts 1:8), through the use of technologies such as the Internet and social media. At the same time he believes that such witnessing does not cconsists in bombarding people with religious messages (WCD Message 2014).
Church has to keep its doors open to all people including those in the digital environments so that they can enter and receive the Gospel. Then our communication becomes successful. It is in our willingness to be available to others, listening to them and in recognising them as our neighbours that our communications becomes truly Christian.
The final question Francis raises to each and every Catholic is, whether we are capable of communicating the image of a "Church that is home for all?" (WCD Message 2014).
MV = Misericordiae Vultus. Bull of Indiction of the Year of Mercy.
EG = Evangelii Gaudium.
WCD = World Communications Day Message