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Gordon's Chapel UMC: Sanford Community Center, Nowhere Road, Hull. Contemporary worship 8:30 a.m. Sunday, continental breakfast 9:30 a.m. and Sunday school 10 a.m. Sunday. Traditional worship 11 a.m. Sunday. The church will present a live nativity scene within the triangle between the Sanford Community Center and the church from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Dec. 2-3. (706) 548-6616 or (706) 548-1266 or (706) 202-2576.
Tyrus Baptist Church: Thytira-Brockton Road, Jefferson. Benefit gospel singing featuring The Mitchells and others at 7 p.m. Dec. 2 to benefit its pastor, the Rev. Bo Wisenant, who is out of work due to knee surgery complicated by blood clots. (706) 202-7957.
Church Women United Meeting: Church Women United will meet at 9:30 a.m. Dec. 2 at Ebenezer Baptist Church West, 205 N. Chase St., for a Christmas program. Bring tube socks wrapped for nursing homes. (706) 549-5622.
Princeton UMC: 2390 S. Lumpkin St. Sunday school 10 a.m., worship 11 a.m. Sunday. Nursery provided. Wednesday night out supper at 5:45 p.m. $4.50 for adults. Children free. Reservations required. "Journey Through Christmas" annual drive-through nativity pageant from 7-9 p.m. Dec. 2 and from 6-8 p.m. Dec. 3-4. The nativity story is told in five scenes through actors, animals and staging. Journey from the Annunciation to the travels of the three kings as they seek the Christ child. Mouse House for children ages 2-5. Christmas activities and snacks on Dec. 10. Princeton Choir Cantata and reception at 6 p.m. Dec. 11. (706) 353-1123.
Community Baptist Church: 2400 Highway 174, Danielsville. Toys for Joy from 9-11 a.m. Dec. 3. The church will give toys to families in financial need this Christmas. Donations of new and gently-used toys still are needed. To donate toys or for more information, call (706) 680-7061 or www.yourcbc.com.
East Friendship Baptist Church: 480 Arch St. Pre-Christmas gospel program titled "A Christmas Miracle: Making Christmas Wishes Come True" at 4 p.m. Dec. 4. All proceeds will be donated to area organizations to make Christmas wishes come true. (706) 543-3875 or (706) 543-0789.
Songfest to benefit Women to the World: Songfest at 4 p.m. Dec. 4 at Central Presbyterian Church, 380 Alps Road, featuring: Buttermilk Revival, Central Teen Singers with Nathan Schreer, Lyric League, The Voices of Truth, UGA Men's Glee Club, UGA Opera Ensemble Octet, Peggy Bailey on the harp and flute and Dr. Emma Pettyjohn. Bazaar at 5:30 p.m. with jewelry made by the Masai Tribe in Kenya, African coffee baskets, The Sweet Tooth Booth, homemade cards, gift bags and paper crafts, CDs and books. Buy an item in someone's name for Christmas. Soups, sandwiches, desserts and beverages available for purchase. Proceeds will benefit Women to the World, an organization that serves women and children in Afghanistan, Africa and Athens. www.womentotheworld.org.
Colbert First Baptist Church: 65 S. Fifth St., downtown Colbert. "Experience Bethlehem" and live nativity from 6-9 p.m. Dec. 8-10 featuring live animals including a camel and sheep. Walk through an authentic first-century village and experience the life of villagers where Jesus was born and encounter basket weavers, an authentic potter, metal smith and carpenter and stroll through an olive grove with olive press. Refreshments. (706) 788-2214 or www.colbertfirstbaptist.org.
Tuckston UMC: 4175 Lexington Road. Bethlehem Marketplace from 7-9 p.m. Dec. 9 and from 3-5 and 7-9 p.m. Dec. 10. Walk through Bethlehem and experience the joy of Christ's birth. Free and open to the public, but donations are appreciated. www.tuckston.org or (706) 340-1883.
Come Alive Ministries of Barrow County: will present "A Gift of Life" Christmas concert at 7 p.m. Dec. 10 at Bethlehem First United Methodist Church, 709 Christmas Ave. in Bethlehem featuring The Gobers. Free admission, but a love offering will be taken to benefit Come Alive Ministries Pregnancy Care Center. (770) 867-3000 or email email@example.com.
Bogart First Baptist Church: 190 Jefferson Ave., Bogart, will present "The Christmas Light" arranged by Benjamin Harlan at 7 p.m. Dec. 15 featuring an ensemble with members from the University of Georgia's School of Music. Refreshments. (770) 725-5094.
An American Christmas Concert: 7 p.m. Dec. 11 at Friendship Presbyterian Church, 8531 North Macon Highway and at 7 p.m. Dec. 18 at Chapelwood United Methodist Church, 100 Janice Drive. Concert will feature the combined choirs of Friendship Presbyterian Church under the direction of Kevin Kelly and Chapelwood United Methodist Church under the direction of Susan McCormick. The choirs will perform Christmas music by American composers through the past 400 years. Free to the public. Email email@example.com.
Action Ministries Athens: Needs donations of personal-care kits with the following items: wash cloth, hand towel, bath-size bar of soap, tooth brush, toothpaste, 4-7 ounce sized deodorant, disposable razors, nail clippers, a comb and Band-Aids. Kits are needed by Dec. 16 and will be handed out during Action Ministries' Christmas meal Dec. 21. Donations can be dropped off from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at the church office of Chapelwood UMC, 100 Janice Drive. (706) 353-6647, ext. 5670.
After Thanksgiving Day Singing: The Maxwells, The Mitchells and Freddie Smith will sing at 6 tonight at New Hope Baptist Church, 211 Stapler Drive, Nicholson. (706) 658-6545.
The Ark's Gift of Hope: The Ark is accepting tax-deductible donations for its "A Gift of Hope" program. Donations will provide people in the Athens area with emergency assistance for rent, utilities and basic life necessities during the holiday season. www.athensark.org.
Bethlehem First UMC: 709 Christmas Ave., Bethlehem. "Surviving the Holidays" from 6:30-8 p.m. Thursday for anyone who is separated or divorced. Discover how to enjoy the holidays again. Children's activities and child care provided through grade 5. Free. For more information, call (404) 933-2278 or email firstname.lastname@example.com. Communion service 8:30 a.m. and contemporary celebration 9:30 a.m. Sunday. Sunday school 9:30 a.m. Traditional and alternative worship services 11 a.m. Sunday. Meal and ministry 5:45 p.m. Wednesday. Grief ministry 6:30 p.m. Wednesday. (770) 867-3727 or www.bigwhitechurch.com.
Billups Grove Baptist Church: 5720 Lexington Road. The deacon's board will celebrate its 24th anniversary at 10:45 a.m. Sunday. Minister Ellery Freeman will be the guest minister. (706) 353-6508 or (706) 354-0156.
Christus Victor Lutheran Church and Student Center: 1010 S. Lumpkin St., will have Wednesday Advent services at 7 p.m. Wednesday and Dec. 7, 14 and 21. Traditional Sunday services with Holy Communion at 10:30 a.m. Sunday. www.ChristusVictor.net or (706) 543-3801.
First Baptist Church: 355 Pulaski St., will offer a worship service at noon each Tuesday before Christmas with carols, prayer, and an Advent meditation delivered by Paul Baxley, Pastor of First Baptist Church in Athens. An offering will be collected each week to benefit an Athens community agency that serves those in need. The service is 30 minute long and a light lunch will be served for $5. (706) 548-1359.
Full Gospel Church of Comer: 118 Vine St., Comer, will have a Thanksgiving singing at 7:30 p.m. Saturday. (706) 783-5669.
Hillsboro Baptist Church: Hillsboro Church Road, High Shoals, will celebrate its 136th anniversary at 11 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Sunday. Pastor D.T. Jackson will speak during the morning service and the Rev. Ronald D. Dunnigan and the Pleasant Hill Baptist Church family will be the guests at 3:30 p.m. The song service will be provided by Pleasant Hill Baptist Church choir(s). Dinner will be served from 2-3:30 p.m. (706) 769-8594.
Oconee Heights Baptist Church: 4180 Jefferson Road. Sunday school for all ages at 9:45 a.m. and worship at 11 a.m. Sunday. The evening service has been canceled. Evening meal at 6 p.m. Wednesday. Reservations should be made by noon on Monday. Adults $6 and children ages 8 and younger $3. Wednesday prayer meeting at 6:30 p.m. Youth and Team Kids meet at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday. (706) 548-4600.
St. Stephen's Anglican Catholic Church: 800 Timothy Road. Prayer at 8:30 a.m. and worship at 9 and 11 a.m. Sunday. Bible study at 6 p.m. Wednesday. Second Annual Advent "Festival of Lessons and Carols" at 5 p.m. Sunday. Directed by William F. Coscarelli, the service combines music and Scripture for an experience of joy and anticipation of the season. The service will be preceded by a prelude by the Athens Recorder Ensemble, directed by Kevin Kelly, at 4:50 p.m. A wine and cheese reception will follow. (706) 543-8657.
St. Philothea Greek Orthodox Church: 3761 Mars Hill Road, Watkinsville. Orthros at 9 a.m. and Divine Liturgy at 10 a.m. Sunday. Spaghetti dinner from 6-8 p.m. Thursday with dessert and beverages. Eat-in or take-out. No reservations necessary. Adult meals cost $7 and children ages 12 and younger cost $4. Children wearing a team jersey eat for $3. Open to the public. Jim Sherman will perform Thursday. Christmas Dance with the Classic City Swing Band on Dec. 15. (770) 725-5035 or www.stphilothea.ga.goarch.org.
Shady Grove Baptist Church: 1080 Mars Hill Road, Watkinsville. Family and friends day at 3 p.m. Sunday. Pastor W.R. Brown will be the guest speaker.
Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Athens: 780 Timothy Road. Frank Boardman will discuss "What Features Define Liberty?" during the forum at 9:30 a.m. Sunday. Children's religious education classes and nursery during the 11 a.m. service. The 11 a.m. service is titled "Thanks/No Thanks — A Sharing Service." Share what you're thankful for and what you wish was never a part of your world. www.uuathensga.org or (706) 546-7914.
Unity Center for Spiritual Growth: 1435 Oglethorpe Ave. The adult study group will meet for "Morning Quietude" from 9:30-10:30 a.m. each Sunday in November with meditation, music and short selections from spiritual readings. Donations appreciated. Service at 11 a.m. Sunday titled "The Bridge." Nursery, Sunday school and youth programs during the service. A Course in Miracles class from 2-3:30 p.m. Sunday. Donations appreciated. (706) 613-8050 or (404) 899-8486 or www.UnityAthens.com.
White Plains Baptist Church: Highway 124, Jefferson, will have its 48th annual Raymond Church Promotions gospel singing featuring C, S & K and The Chestatee River Quartet at 6 p.m. Saturday. Gospel singing at 6 p.m. Sunday featuring the Pineridge Boys, the Homeland Boys and the Carolina Boys. (706) 658-6545.
A Place Called Love Family Church: Oconee Preschool Academy, 1890 Mars Hill Road. Adult Bible school and children's church at 10:15 a.m. Sunday. Worship at 11 a.m. Sunday. (706) 548-9777 or (706) 338-4112 or aplacecalledlove.org.
Academy Baptist Church: 689 Academy Church Road, Jefferson. Sunday school at 10 a.m. and worship at 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Sunday. Team Kid for children ages 2 through grade 12 from 6-7:30 p.m. Wednesday. (706) 202-2191.
Anchor Church: 4725 Atlanta Highway, Bogart. Coffee and fellowship at 10 a.m. followed by contemporary worship at 10:30 a.m. Sunday. Nursery and children's church services provided. Bible study for adults, youth, children and nursery at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday. (706) 224-8208 or www.anchor-church.net or email@example.com.
Ashford Memorial Methodist Church: 1 S. Main St., Watkinsville. Sunday school 10 a.m. and worship at 11 a.m. (706) 769-6928 or email email@example.com.
Athens First UMC: 327 N. Lumpkin St. Worship at 8:30, 9:45 and 11 a.m. Sunday. (706) 543-1442 or www.athensfirstumc.org.
Bogart Church of Christ: 193 N. Church St., Bogart. Sunday school at 10 a.m., worship at 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Sunday. Wednesday classes at 7 p.m. (770) 725-8595.
Bogart UMC: 1201 Atlanta Highway, Bogart. Sunday school at 10 a.m. and worship at 11 a.m. (678) 753-0570 or www.bogartumc.com.
Bread of Life Church: 302 Athens Road, Winterville. Sunday Bible classes for adults and children at 10 a.m. and worship at 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Sunday. Nursery provided. (706) 548-0640.
Caring for People Ministry: Caring for People Ministry is an emergency food assistance program and prayer request ministry that operates year-round. For emergency food assistance, call 211 or (706) 202-4805. A weekly bible lesson titled "The Hope Dealer" is broadcast at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday on Charter cable channel 23 and is hosted by Evangelist Gwendolyn Sewell-Stokes. Email email@example.com or visit Caringforpeopleministries.ning.com.
Central Baptist Church: 720 Danilesville Road. Sunday school at 9:45 a.m. and worship at 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Sunday. Wednesday evening service at 7 p.m. (706) 353-7400.
Cleveland Road Baptist Church: 1215 Cleveland Road, Bogart. Sunday school at 9:45 a.m., worship at 11 a.m. Sunday and celebrate recovery meetings at 7 p.m. Thursday. Child care provided. (706) 369-7608.
Commerce Presbyterian Church: 89 Lakeview Drive, Commerce. Sunday school at 10 a.m. and worship at 11 a.m. Sunday. Youth activities at 6 p.m. Wednesday. (706) 335-3282.
Corinth Baptist Church: 2040 Belmont Road, Arnoldsville, invites people ages 50 and older to attend its weekly Bible study at 9:45 a.m. Sunday. Worship at 11 a.m. Sunday. (706) 540-9380. www.ourcorinthbaptist.com.
East Athens Baptist Church: 4325 Lexington Road. Sunday school at 9:45 a.m. and worship at 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Sunday. Wednesday prayer meeting at 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. Dinner is served at 5 p.m. Wednesday. Price is $1-$3 per person or $10 for a family. (706) 543-2393 www.eastathenbaptist.org.
Ebenezer Baptist Church, East: 186 Derby St. Church services are held at 8 a.m. the first, third and fifth Sundays of the month and at 11 a.m. the second and fourth Sundays of the month. (706) 543-7719.
Erastus Christian Church: 2050 Neese Commerce Road, Commerce. Sunday school at 10 a.m. and worship at 11 a.m. Sunday. Youth meeting from 6-7:30 p.m. Wednesday for grades K through 12. (706) 335-6140 or www.erastuschristianchurch.com.
Fairfield Baptist Church: Highway 29 N., Danielsville. Sunday school at 10 a.m. and worship at 11:30 a.m. Sunday. (706)795-3574.
Fairfield Missionary Baptist Church: 2141 Highway 82, Statham. Sunday school at 10 a.m. and worship at 11:30 a.m. Sunday. Bible study at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday. (770) 725-5511.
Faith Baptist Church: 116 Sarah St., Winder. Sunday school at 10 a.m. and worship at 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Sunday. Bible study and Young Christians in Action at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday. Church has a bus ministry. To get picked up for services, call (678) 227-2314. www.faithbaptistwinder.com.
Faith Center of Worship International: Worship at 1 p.m. Sunday at First UMC of Winder, 280 N. Broad St., Winder, and Bible study at 269 Rutledge Drive in Winder. (770) 867-4594.
Fellowship Baptist Church: 1820 Rays Church Road, Bishop. Sunday school 9:45 a.m., worship 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Sunday. Midweek worship 7 p.m. Wednesday. (706) 769-9997.
First A.M.E. Church: 521 N. Hull St. Sunday school at 9:45 a.m. and worship at 11 a.m. Sunday. Bible study at 7 p.m. Wednesday. (706) 548-1454 or (706) 248-8453 or (706) 338-9504.
First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ): 4 N. Main St., Watkinsville. Sunday school at 10 a.m. and worship at 11 a.m. Sunday. (706) 769-5966.
For His Glory Church International: 1942 Lexington Road. Worship at 11 a.m. Sunday. Word encounter at 7 p.m. Wednesday. Intercession prayer at 7 p.m. Thursday. Youth Explosion at 6 p.m. every fifth Sunday. (706) 352-0752 or www.forhisglorychurchintl.com.
Free Spirit Baptist Church: 118 W. Spring St. Sunday school at 10 a.m., worship at 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Sunday and evening services at 7 p.m. Wednesday. (706) 353-1977 or (770) 307-5889.
Gate To Heaven Christian Fellowship Church: Worship at 10 a.m. the first and third Sunday of each month at Showtime Bowl, 555 Macon Highway. (706) 208-1784.
Gateway UMC of Athens: 6425 Jefferson Road. Bible study at 9:15 a.m. Sunday. Contemporary worship at 10:30 a.m. Sunday. www.GatewayUMC.org or (706) 546-5947.
Great Life Ministries: 107 Main St., Bogart. Sunday school 9:30 a.m. and worship 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. Sunday. Bible study at 7 p.m. Wednesday. (706) 424-4641.
Greater Athens Church of God: 565 Tallassee Road. Sunday school at 10 a.m. and worship at 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Sunday. Children's church during worship service. Wednesday night Bible study for adults and children's classes at 7 p.m. After Shock, a youth group, at 7 p.m. Wednesday. www.gacog.org or (706) 353-8345.
Greater Bethel A.M.E. Church: 140 Rose St. Sunday school 9:45 a.m. and worship 11 a.m. Sunday. (706) 548-0014.
Athens Christian Women's Connection: will meet at 9:45 a.m. Thursday at Girasoles, 24 Greensboro Highway in Watkinsville for brunch and its annual Christmas gifts and goodies boutique. All proceeds will benefit Stonecroft Ministries missions. Tempe Brown, former nightclub singer and current author, also will humorously share a puzzling story with a happy ending. Tickets are $15.50. Reservations required by Monday. Free nursery is available for small children. (706) 769-6909 or email email@example.com.
Heritage Fellowship Church: 205 Fowler Mill Road, Bogart. Sunday school at 9:45 a.m. Sunday. Worship at 10:30 a.m. and 6 p.m. Sunday and at 7 p.m. Wednesday. (706) 548-4918.
Historic Mt. Zion Church: 250 Tony Jones St., Royston. Sunday school at 10 a.m. and worship at 11 a.m. Sunday. Midweek worship at 7:30 p.m. Thursday. (706) 246-0795 or (706) 988-1528.
Holy Cross Lutheran Church: 800 W. Lake Drive. Sunday school at 10 a.m. Sunday, informal blended worship at 8:45 a.m. and traditional worship at 11 a.m. Sunday. (706) 548-3329.
Jefferson Presbyterian Church: 243 Washington St., Jefferson. Sunday school at 9:45 a.m. and worship at 11 a.m. Sunday. Nursery available for children ages newborn to 4 years old. Bible study at 6 p.m. Wednesday. (706) 367-5577 or email email@example.com or www.jpc.org.
Life Church of Athens: Morton Theatre, 195 W. Washington St. Service at 10:30 a.m. Sunday. www.lifechurchofathens.com.
Lifehouse Church: 920 Baxter St. Sunday school at 9:30 a.m. and worship at 10:30 a.m. Sunday. Wednesday prayer at 6:30 p.m. and Bible class at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday. (706) 352-5211 or www.athenslifehouse.org.
Living Waters Christian Fellowship Church: 610 Nellie B. Ave. Sunday school at 10 a.m. and worship at 11 a.m. Sunday. Prayer at 6:30 p.m. Monday. Bible study at 7 p.m. Wednesday. (706) 424-5221 or (706) 351-0095.
Living Word Baptist Food Pantry: Living Word Baptist's food pantry is open from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. the first Tuesday and Wednesday of each month. (770) 725-2837.
The Mission that Loves People: Has a community microprogram in the Athens area where each member puts a small amount of money into a community pot to be distributed to a selected individual in need. To learn more about the community organization, call (404) 447-2353.
Morton Chapel Baptist Church: 2005 Morton Road. Sunday school at 9:30 a.m. and worship at 11 a.m. Sunday. Bible study at 7 p.m. Wednesday. (706) 549-0947 or (706) 546-8140.
Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church: 1931 Old W. Broad St. Sunday school at 8:45 a.m. Sunday and worship at 10 a.m. Sunday. Bible study for all ages at 7 p.m. Wednesday. (706) 549-3767.
Mt. Zion Baptist Church: 1459 Jot-Em-Down Road. Sunday school at 10 a.m. and worship at 11 a.m. Sunday. (706) 789-2113.
Nativity Lutheran Church: 799 Christmas Ave., Bethlehem. Adult forum and Sunday school at 9 a.m. and worship at 10 a.m. Sunday. (770) 307-4628.
Neal's Grove Church: 900 Sims Bridge Road, Commerce. Sunday school at 10 a.m. and worship at 11 a.m. Sunday. Nursery provided during the services. Bible study at 7 p.m. Wednesday. (706) 335-2106.
New Life Apostolic Church: 2050 Hog Mountain Road, Watkinsville. Worship at 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. Sunday. Children's church during the 10 a.m. worship service for ages 5-12. Bible study at 7 p.m. Wednesday. "DASH Service," a youth-led praise and worship service, at 7 p.m. Wednesday. www.nlac.tv or (706) 769-6824.
North High Shoals Congregational Holiness Church: 271 Jefferson Road. Sunday school at 10 a.m. and worship at 11 a.m. Sunday. Evening services at 6 p.m. Sunday discuss end of times prophecy and current events. (770) 846-9875.
Our Hope Metropolitan Community Church: Presbyterian Student Center at UGA, 1250 S. Lumpkin St. Worship service at 11 a.m. Sunday. www.ourhopemcc.org.
Perfection of The Saints Ministries Inc.: 115 Bluestone Drive, Bogart. Grace worship at 5 p.m. Sunday and Perfection Studies at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday. Email email@example.com.
St. James UMC: 111 West Lake Drive. Worship at 8:30, 9:40 and 10:50 a.m. Sunday. (706) 548-1680 or www.sjumc.org.
Shiloh Baptist Church: 2150 Jones Chapel-Shiloh Road. Sunday school at 10 a.m. and worship at 11 a.m. Sunday. (706) 783-5942.
Trinity Lutheran Church: 2535 Jefferson Road. Sunday school at 9:45 a.m. and worship at 8 and 11 a.m. Sunday. Nursery provided. Saturday service at 5:30 p.m. the second and forth Saturday of each month. A free dinner follows the Saturday service. (706) 546-1280 or www.Trinity-Athens.org.
Union Baptist Church: 2900 Highway 106 S., Hull, holds mom-to-mom meetings from 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. the second and fourth Fridays of each month. (706) 789-2378.
Victory Baptist Church: 4030 Danielsville Road. Sunday school 9:45 a.m.. worship 11 a.m. Sunday. Evening service 6 p.m. Sunday and 7 p.m. Wednesday.
Walnut Grove Baptist Church: 6121 Greensboro Highway, Watkinsville. Sunday school at 10 a.m. and worship at 11 a.m. Sunday. (706) 338-1058 or (706) 549-8245.


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The UFC (which stands for Ultimate Fighting Championship) is a MMA organization which has had some indirect dealings with certain professional wrestlers. Pro wrestlers have transitioned into UFC careers, and UFC fighters have transitioned into pro wrestling careers.
Pro wrestling to UFC
Brock Lesnar competed in the WWE from 2000 to 2004, and then in the UFC from 2008 to 2011 where he defeated Randy Couture to become its Heavyweight Champion. After he left UFC to return to WWE from 2012 onward. His tenure at UFC was sometimes referenced by announcers. He currently holds the WWE World Heavyweight Championship.
Leaving the WWE after a 2005-2014 run, the longest-reigning WWE Champion CM Punk (who defeated Lesnar in WWE prior to leaving) on 6 December 2014 signed a contract with UFC to fight a series of matches beginning in 2015, which made his wife AJ Lee (the longest-reigning Divas Champion) proud.
UFC to pro wrestling
Ken Shamrock competed in UFC from 1993 to 1996, then in WWF from 1997 to 1999, then returned to UFC from 2002 to 2006.
Tito Ortiz was in in UFC from 1997 to 2008, during which he made some sporadic appearances in the TNA promotion in 2005. Later in 2013 he had a lengthier run in the rebranded Impact Wrestling.
Rampage Jackson was in UFC from 2007 to January 2013, and then from June to August 2013 he was also involved with TNA, feuding with Ortiz to help promote their upcoming match at Bellator.

subset: commoncrawl


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Affiliated to the British Entomological and Natural History Society (BENHS)
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It's daffodil time again and daffodil flies (Norellia spinipes - a Scathophagid) will be about. Back in 2009 I appealed for everyone to look for this rare fly and 4 new records were submitted as a result (Daffodil fly appeal). These flies can usually be found sitting on daffodil leaves or flower stems. Records are not exclusively confined to Daffolils or to spring time - a specimen was photographed by Alan Outen in November 2010 on Carex (A possible Sciomyzid).
I appeal to everyone to check their local daffodil patches again this year to see if further records can be made. The furthest North records so far are Alan's in Beds. and my own from Worcs.
N. spinipes is a delicate little creature with long legs and at first site looks more like a stilt-fly than a dung-fly - see pictures attached (detail picture copied from Alan Outen posting and daffodil stem from my own)
Last edited by malcolmsmart (2011-03-16 15:59:02)
I have a sense that, so far, my records of this year have a certain bias to invertebrates that could be originating from mini-environments that are somewhat warmer than average: (i) Myriapods under e.g. a stone (iSpot, 25th, Jan. 2011 - Blaniulid), (ii) Musca domestica (iSpot 15th March, 2011 Flies on Wall), (iii) Flies around rotting fungus (This Forum Identification Small flies around fungus) and (iv) A dung fly on daffodils (This Forum Identification Fly among daffodils).
A possibility that might merit further exploration is that daffodils, by virtue of energy obtained from their bulbs, are warmer than their surrounding environment at this time of year, so that certain flies are attracted to them.
They may not just be basking on outer surfaces. Further images that I obtained today (uploads) show what looks like another Scathophagid, this time with pollen on its thorax. Perhaps it sheltered in the bell of a daffodil flower overnight. In two of my recent images of Musca domestica (iSpot above ), there is also pollen-like material on the thorax.
Hi Grant,
Your pictures above are of a male specimen of Scathophaga stercoria and you may well be correct in assuming that daffodils are attractive to many species of flies at this time of year (perhaps because they represent a nectar source rather than a heat source).
However, Norellia spinipes is attracted to daffodils because its immature stages live within the the plant, possibly exclusively. I quote below the text of an unpublished article summarising the current knowledge of this species in Britain.
"This rather distinctive species was first recorded in 1965 (Chandler and
Stubbs, 1969; Chandler, 1970) and has been found mainly in deciduous
woodland or in gardens in Surrey, Kent, Sussex, Bucks, Berks, Herts,
Cambs., Hunts. and Middlesex (Allen, 1983; Godfrey, 1989; Smith, 1996;
Smith & Vardy, 1988) where it is associated with daffodils (Narcissus). The
larvae mine the leaves and pupate at the base of the plant and sometimes
damage the bulbs (Smith, 1989). Most records are for the Spring (April to
June) when adults are usually found on daffodil leaves, but there are also
October records which seem to always relate to females. No specimens
earlier than 1965 have come to light, although it is not uncommon at some
localities within its limited range. This suggests it is a recent colonist and
was probably introduced from the continent in imported bulbs"
My interest derives from finding a colony of the species in Worcestershire (rather further North than reported above).
I hope this clarifies my request for information.
Malcolm, I have it from three sites in Warwickshire and one in Suffolk. Most encounters are in woods without any obvious daffodils. wanderers I presume. How do you want the records sent?
Hi Falky,
I shall be most interested see your records. Please e-mail them to me.
My first specimen from the Worcester colony I referred to above turned up in a malaise trap in an orchard with no obvious daffodils. The following year I went back and searched the area for daffodils. I found a large patch of daffodils in the adjacent (+/-100m) farm garden and another in the entrance drive - both with many specimens of N. spinipes on them.
Still haven't managed to find it in my garden but did find a female just down the road in our village today (19 March), sitting on daffodil leaves on a road verge in Great Kimble, Buckinghamshire, SP82350605. There's some photos on iSpot at http://www.ispot.org.uk/node/120817
I found 5 today at Greywell Hants today. SU722513
interestingly there were several clumps of daffs, but they were only found on the small (species?) daffs. and seemed to avoid the large showy horticultural daffs.
Does this fit with others observations?
Last edited by Mark (2011-03-20 03:43:21)
Hi Malcolm,
Two copulating pairs of Norellia spinipes seen (one pair collected) today at Lyth Hill,. just south of Shrewsbury. 21 March 2011. Will forward details soon.
Nigel Jones
The grid ref for the Lyth Hill record is SJ465065. Date 21 March 2011. Both copulating pairs were standing on the infloresences of daffodils on open hillside - where the daffs had gone wild.
I also noted yesterday that Pete Boardman has two Shropshire records on NBN gateway from 2006.
Best wishes
Nigel Jones
Last edited by conopid (2011-03-22 12:39:42)
Two more records from Bucks (VC24), one in the north and one in the south of the county:
24 March 2011, two individuals seen on daffodils on road verges at the Open University campus, Milton Keynes, SP884372
27 March 2011, could only find one individual among lots of daffodils within the grounds of Cliveden National Trust, SU910855
Thanks everyone for your records so far. I've been away overseas for 2 weeks and was unable to respond until now. Please keep looking and hopefully finding more specimens of this interesting species.
And another, this time from Royal Victoria Park, Bath, ST744651, on 9 April 2011.
Hi Malcolm,
I took a male Norellia spinipes on 22/3/2012 at Castle Ashby gardens SP868588, Northants. I swept it from a 'wild' part of the garden, in woodland. The ground flora had daffodil, martagon lilies, wood anemones, lesser celandine etc..
Sweeping daffodils at Wytham Wood woodland edge VC22 SP4507 on 28th March 2012 I captured 9 males and 4 females of Norellia spinipes identified using Stuart's keys by microscopy. I did not capture any others in my general sweeping away from daffodils.
I swept a male Norellia spinipes from a small patch of daffodils in North Cliffe Woods, south of York, at GR SE864372 on 28/03/2012. Keyed out with Stuart's key and kindly checked for me by Roy Crossley.
I too have been sweeping daffodils in NE Hants & West Surrey at every available opportunity, and this year, so far, not a single specimen. But there is still time.
I found one again last Autumn at Stanford Wood among sedges (as the previous year - you saw specimen and my images Malcolm) and with no daffodils in the wood. Despite having over 50 daffodil cvs in our Clifton (Beds) garden and checking these a few times daily when I am at home I have again failed to find any here this Spring as last year.
I uploaded some images of a fly found on daffodils on the identification forum (17.3.12) which was identified as a male Norellia spinipes. Since then I have seen numerous ones in my garden in Darwen, Lancashire SD 700203.
Thank you all for this new information. I am still assembling records for N. spinipes and welcome receiving records from anybody. So far, the only ones not directly associated with daffodils seem to be Alan's but those are both autumn records rather than spring. Could it be that Alan's records relate to a different but similar (and possibly previously unrecognised) species. It would be interesting see specimens/photos of it and to learn exactly how it was behaving. I have only ever seen N. spinipes flying amongst ot sitting on daffodil leaves, stalks of flowers in early spring.
Hi Malcolm,
I had it on daffodils adjacent to Stockton Churchyard SO728997 in Shropshire VC40 on the 22nd March 2012.
Cheers Pete Boardman
I wandered lonely as a cloud
That floats on high o'er vales and hills,
When all at once I saw a crowd,
A host, of golden daffodils;
But still the Norellia spinipes
were no where to be seen!
I have however found two on reed, one at SU737263, and the other at SU958445.
Following on from the specimen showed to me by Ian Andrews, other examples were found by him at daffs in a small wood at Pocklington (E.Yorks.). Spurred on by Ian's original discovery, - the first for Yorks. as far as I know - I found specimens in April (6th-20th), at four more local E.Yorks sites, including a historic and well know 'wild daffodil' wood, and my village churchyard. John Coldwell has also found it in the Barnsley area this spring. An extensive search of the
famous wild daffodil poipulations in the North York Moors National Park failed to reveal any. So here 'up north' we have established this year that the species is present over a fairly wide area in lowland Yorkshire. In the light of these eperiences, my instinct suggests that it will probably be found almost wherever daffs occur in the lowlands.
Roy Crossley
Hi Malcolm
I have two records from Cheshire. The earliest is from 14 May 1999 when I swept a single male at The Quinta, an arboretum at Swettenham (SJ796674). I have no recollection of where I found it, but the site does have daffodils.
On 18 July 2012, I dodged out into the garden between showers and swept a few flies from the shrubs. To my surprise these included a male and a female Norellia spinipes. Both I and my neighbour have daffodils and narcissi in the vicinity, though these were not swept. The location is Winsford, Cheshire (SJ64036534).
Bill Hardwick
Hi Malcolm
We've got Norellia spinipes in the Wildlife Garden at the NHM (TQ265790). I picked on up on 1 August this year. Not sure that we encourage daffodils in the garden (?), but there will be plenty in the area (e.g. Hyde Park). The garden is fairly well shaded; particularly by August time.
Hi Malcolm,
I caught this fly at Tottenham Cemetery yesterday, 5th March, if you're still collecting records. I think it's the right one, and I have the specimen. It's much too big for Norrelisoma and I can't find anything else similar


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Online Community of Zenith Builders and Flyers
Started this discussion. Last reply by Gary Welch Nov 24. 4 Replies 2 Likes
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Have 84 + flight hours on my Viking 130 powered CH-601 xlb.Viking 130 sarts ease, runnins smooth and burns 5.4 gallons of car gas.In my book this is a Grrrrrrr* combinationContinue
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* WW 2700cc Corvair engine with 50 + hours* WW motor mount* WW stainless steel exhaust* WW steel intake* J S Wesseman baffle kit* J S Wesseman cowling kit* Van's 13" spinner* MA3-SPA carb* 66" Warp…Continue
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Need help on obtaining a fiberglass nosebowl - William Wynne doesn't seem to support his catalogContinue
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Looking to buy a Dynon GPS-251 for my Dynon EFIS-D100
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CH-601xlb with Viking 130 engine trip to Marion, Iowa (C17)
On 6 July 2018 was able to fly my CH-601 to Marion, Iowa (C17) and back. Got to visit with my younger brother and wife. It was as always a special visit. I'm so lucky to be able do this on a day when his health is good. That is why I enjoy my CH-601 equipped with the Viking 130 engine.
My original engine failed me twice on trying to make this journey.
Have about 91 hours on the Viking 130…
Posted on March 4, 2012 at 9:50am 0 Comments 1 Like
Hi richard
i made the boots from siliconized fiberglass fire cloth you can get it at welding supply store .we use it at my shop to protect delicate parts when welding above them like a drop cloth .its very flexable and just wont burn ,i just sewed a offset cone and mouted it to the fire wall with a stainless flange and some pop rivets
I have a web site w/ all my pics. www.rickbeckmanszodiac601xlb.com . I am running a Jabiru 3300 and a Prince P-Tip prop that is 58 X 48. Paint job is my own design and I did all the paint, including the flames. I, also, did the upholstery, panel, etc. I don't mean to sound braggy, just stating the facts. I was determined from the start to do it all myself. Just sayin'...
Hi Richard,
We are putting a Corvair engine with a Warp Drive prop. I am building the plane and my husband Craig is building the engine. I think we will be using the Dynon system. I havent made a decission on that yet.


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Three soldiers of Pakistan Army were martyred in an exchange of fire with terrorists in North Waziristan on Thursday.
"Security forces launched an IBO in North Waziristan against terrorists involved in an attack on security forces on 12 September as well as ambush on security forces convoy during December 2017, which resulted in martyrdom of Lieutenant Moeed," said the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).
"All four terrorists including operational level terrorist Aftab Parakay killed," the military's media wing said. "Terrorist were fully armed and gave tough resistance."
In exchange of fire, the ISPR added, three soldiers Naib Subedar Nazir Ahmed Chandio, Sepoy Fakhar and Sepoy Amir of Pakistan Army embraced martyrdom. The area has been cleared.
On September 9, one soldier embraced martyrdom while four terrorists were killed in a security operation in Jhao near Awaran, Balochistan.


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PSA TEC, the quintessential educational and networking conference for systems integrators produced by PSA Security Network, Westminster, Colo., is in the record books, but the excitement from the show is still fresh.
Not only did we walk away with new integrator partners, but we also received an Outstanding Vendor Partner of the Year Award. Joe Holland, co-founder of LifeSafety Power®and vice president of Engineering accepted the award from PSA's Craig Patterson, director of Vendor Management. The Vendor Award winners were selected by PSA owner companies based on rankings for pricing, shipping, support, lead generation, returns and product performance. The 2016 awards were issued during the Vendor Awards Luncheon on May 10. LifeSafety Power also recently attained status as a Premier PSA Network Vendor.
The award was quite significant in that it's based on feedback gathered from integrator-customers. "It's not simply an internal award," Holland said. "It's the customer base of PSA Security and the integrators who select the winners based on their experience with our company and how they perceive our innovative products," he added.
New LSP certification course unveiled
Holland kicked off LifeSafety Power's educational session participation at PSA TEC on May 9 with a LifeSafety Power Certification Course, newly created and recognized as qualifying to earn BICSI technicians certification credits for their credentialing. Some heavy-hitter integration companies were on hand to learn about the LifeSafety Power approach to power management, design and installation, and of course, managed services with networked power solutions.
During exhibits, the booth was a constant flurry of activity and it was evident that those who visited appreciated and understood the rewards LifeSafety Power products bring through managed services, including the ability to receive emailed notifications of system status and other real-time reports.
Managed services take center stage
At the booth, LifeSafety Power showcased its patented NetLink® remote communications module as well as the Flexpower® Multi-Site Manager which collects, consolidates and displays information by NetLink on a single computer screen from multiple devices. Also on display was the award-winning FlexPower Gemini RGM small footprint rackmount solution that integrates all components within the enclosure and meets cUL and UL listings for the integral design.
"PSA Security Network and its members continue to be a fantastic avenue of success for us," said John Olliver, senior vice president of Sales and Business Development. "We're always impressed with the quality of integration companies who are part of the organization and look forward to helping them increase their profitability and recurring monthly revenue with networked power solutions."


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For more information about Henricus Historical Park, please call (804) 748-1611. Press "0" and a park attendant will be happy to assist you.
You may also e-mail us at email@example.com.
Henricus Historical Park
251 Henricus Park Road
Chester, VA 23836
Henricus Historical Park Contacts
|Margaret Carlini
|Educational Programs Supervisor
|Chris Duball
|Administrative Supervisor
|Charles Grant
|Executive Director
|John Pagano
|Interpretation Supervisor
|Raffaella Marr
|Gift Shop Manager
|Stephanie Burr
|Education Manager
|Caitlin Sunderland
|Special Events & Communications Coordinator


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Photography Classes in Elizabethtown IL
Are you ready to take photography classes in Elizabethtown IL? Whether you are a professional, beginner, or hobbyist, the best way to improve your photography abilities is through hands-on training with skilled instructors.
There are numerous accredited photography schools in Illinois. Photography classes cover techniques like digital capture, lighting techniques, exposure, composition, outdoor photography, and many other basic and advanced camera techniques. Maturing into a skilled photographer can result in a prosperous professional career or lifelong hobby.
There are many Photography Classes in Elizabethtown IL:
- Studio Photography Classes in Elizabethtown
- Photography 101 in Elizabethtown
- Digital Photography Classes in Elizabethtown
- Nature Photography Classes in Elizabethtown
- Editorial Photography Classes in Elizabethtown
Elizabethtown IL Photography Classes
Southern Illinois University Carbondale
Lincoln Drive
Carbondale, Illinois 62901-4512
Phone: (618) 453-2121
56.00 miles away
Vincennes University
1002 N First St
Vincennes, Indiana 47591
Phone: (812) 888-8888
90.79 miles away
Western Kentucky University
1906 College Heights Blvd
Bowling Green, Kentucky 42101-1000
Phone: (270) 745-0111
104.30 miles away
Watkins College of Art Design & Film
2298 Rosa L Parks Blvd
Nashville, Tennessee 37228
Phone: (615) 383-4848
120.10 miles away
Nossi College of Art
590 Cheron Rd
Madison, Tennessee 37115
Phone: (615) 514-2787
120.11 miles away
Nashville State Community College
120 White Bridge Rd
Nashville, Tennessee 37209-4515
Phone: (615) 353-3333
121.35 miles away
Trevecca Nazarene University
333 Murfreesboro Rd
Nashville, Tennessee 37210
Phone: (615) 248-1200
124.55 miles away
International Academy of Design and Technology-Nashville
One Bridgestone Park
Nashville, Tennessee 37214
Phone: (615) 232-7384 x4676
125.87 miles away
The Art Institute of Tennessee-Nashville
100 Centerview Drive Suite 250
Nashville, Tennessee 37214-3439
Phone: (615) 874-1067
128.40 miles away
Webster University
470 E Lockwood Ave.
Saint Louis, Missouri 63119-3194
Phone: (314) 961-2660
137.21 miles away


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David Griffin: Exopolitics, Gary McKinnon and the Secret Space Program
In 2002, an amateur London hacker was arrested by the then Hi Tech National Crimes Unit on the instruction of US authorities. It was alleged that Gary McKinnon had penetrated secure networks belonging to NASA, The Pentagon and others. As a result the US Justice Department became intent on making him face trial and a possible 70 year jail term to be served in America. What contributed to the zealous determination of an embarrassed military industrial complex was what McKinnon claimed he found during his months browsing the networks. His testimony backed up what many have suggested in recent years - that there exists a totally separate, highly advanced space program employing exotic energy systems and possibly back-engineered technology from ET sources.
This presentation examines other evidence sources that substantiate what McKinnon found and from an exopolitical perspective will discuss the impact of such a program on terrestrial culture and how it possibly effects any human/alien interaction. We'll also make the point that McKinnon's case is exopolitical in nature and represents the final symbolic struggle between power structures as far as Disclosure of the ET reality.
David Griffin presented "Gary McKinnon and the Secret Space Program" on Saturday 7th August, 2010 at the Leeds Exopolitics Expo.


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Crate & Barrel in Dubai makes it so much easier- I've spotted a few coffee tables, mugs and accessories that became an instant favorite. And to make things even better, they are offering 25% off on select furniture.
If you are visiting a friend who just moved into their new apartment or are looking to breathe life into your home, here are a few ideas.
Do you see the trunk shaped tables in the picture on the top left? They are actual trunks of acacia trees polished and refined to perfection. It's quite unique and my favorite. Look how fab those cute festive cups are. And those glorious candle holders? It is things like these that make up a room.
That snowflake pan is a must have! Imagine having fancy pancakes for breakfast. I'd use the pan throughout the year- it is too good to limit it to December only. Those polar bear glasses are quite fun and look perfect when juices are served in it.
And while we are on the topic of polar bears, check out his appearance on the cushion. I'll take the glasses and the cushion as presents, thank you. Eating food out of a snowflake plate? Yes, sir!
Apart from some classic products inspired by the modern farmhouse, there are a variety of couches, tables and other furniture to choose from. I love the different shaped serving boards and festive accessories- they are a far cry from the standard pieces most homes have.
This is a small selection of what's available. Pretty sure you'll be spending quite some time browsing the aisles. I did! Don't forget to avail the 25% discount on select furniture.
You can shop the Fall 2014 Collection at Crate & Barrel stores in Mall of the Emirates and Mirdif City Centre, Dubai.


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Contact us
Student Union
At Lucy Cavendish, we have a strong tradition of supporting and celebrating creative writers. The Lucy Cavendish Fiction Prize is testament to this, as the catalyst for numerous bestselling debuts and emerging literary talent. In 2020, the College will open the competition to students for the Lucy Cavendish Student Fiction Prize.
Funded by the Florence Staniforth Award for Excellence in Creative Writing, the prize is for students from any discipline studying at Lucy Cavendish. Students are invited to submit a short story to a panel of judges led by College Vice-President and Director of Studies in English, Dr Isobel Maddison. Also on the panel are published authors and creative writing teachers, Jo Browning-Wroe and Miranda Doyle. There is no word limit, and entry is free of charge.
To enter, please send your short story to Hayley Welch: email@example.com . Any queries should also be sent to her.
Dr Isobel Maddison said:
"This is an exciting new College prize open to students studying any subject. Short stories are a flexible way of communicating a central idea or developing the significance of a brief incident and much more. No experience of creative writing is needed to submit to the prize. The judging panel are hoping for plenty of entries!"
Good luck!


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High above a pass in the Golan Heights sits Qala'at al Subeiba – "the castle on the cliff". It was built by the Ayyubid Sultan Al-Aziz Uthman, the nephew of Salah ad-din, in the late 12th century. His successors then expanded the fortress in the early 13th century as part of an effort to repel the Sixth Crusade. The Muslims feared that the crusaders would land in Acre and from there attack the Ayyubid capital at Damascus, which lies only forty miles to the northeast.
As it turned out, the Sixth Crusade never turned into much. The German emperor Frederick II negotiated a peace with Sultan Al-Kamil who allowed Frederick to be crowned King of Jerusalem, but basically amounted to a paper victory. Within a decade, Acre fell to the Ayyubid forces and the crusades shifted their focus from the holy land to problems at home.
Qala'at al Subeiba was a massive fortress that never saw use. It was a defense against an attack that never came. It is ruins now, as it has been for over five centuries.
Our perceptions of danger is sometimes more than the danger itself, isn't it? I think that it is all too easy for Christians to fortify the wrong places in their lives. We build great apologetic arguments and theological treatises, but we abandon justice and mercy. Jesus warned us about this, reminding us that it is hypocritical. "For you tithe mint and dill and cumin, and have neglected the weightier matters of the law: justice and mercy and faithfulness. These you ought to have done, without neglecting the others." (Matthew 23:23)
Our first priorities should be our commitment to Christ. Our second priority, which goes hand in hand with that commitment, is our love for our family, friends – and even enemies. Our defense against the attacks upon us should be grounded in these much weightier things.
There's no point building massive fortresses high on hills if we are not first strengthening and stabilizing these vital ground-level points.


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DMX is going on a promo tour in anticipation of his album "Undisputed" and following up his EP "The Weigh In."
DMX has announced preliminary tour dates for his promotional tour called "The Weigh In," which follows up his EP of the same name. His album, Undisputed, is set tentatively to drop on June 26th.
Check the dates below, and head here for more info.
Jun. 1 - The Inner Circle Cincinnati, OH
Jun. 2 - Epic Event Center Minneapolis, MN
Jun. 8 - Upstate Concert Hall Clifton Park, NY
Jun. 9 - Chene Park with Nas Detroit, MI
Jun. 10 - Theatre of Living Arts Philadelphia, PA
Jun. 14 - The Norva Norfolk, VA
Jun. 15 - Star Bar Raleigh, NC
Jun. 16 - Amazura Jamaica, NY
Jun. 21 - Pufferbellies Hyannis, MA
Jun. 22 - Paradise Theater with Swizz Beatz Bronx, NY
Jun. 24 - Croc Rock Allentown, PA
Jun. 30 - Blaisdell Concert Hall Honolulu, HI
Jul. 6 - Revolution Live Fort Lauderdale, FL
Jul. 8 - Firestone Live Orlando, FL
Jul. 10 - Vinyl Music Hall Pensacola, FL


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ELA Make sure you complete your Pink Day Viewing Questions and hand them in. They were to be handed in for Friday. If you took them home to use to complete your Anti-bullying Pink Day assignment, ensure that you hand them in on Monday.
Pink Day Blog Reflections - Rough draft (this can be a rough draft on paper or on your blog). Remember 1-2 paragraphs of your reflection on Pink Day and it's importance.
Blog comments - Complete 2 comments for Monday on the Lorax/Two Islands... This was due on Friday!!!
Have an awesome Weekend!
Remember next Wednesday, October 23rd is Family Reading Night 6:30 to 8!
Grade 8 Outdoor Ed Meeting 6:30 - 7:15 pm in the Grade 8 classroom - (Ms. Stewart-Mitchell/Mr. Baumgartner's room)


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Christmas Children Now
Dec 28th, 2015
Merry Christmas! Fr. Dan Riley, ofm, offers us a reflection as we move through the Christmas season, including celebrating the Holy Family. Take time to pause, step aside and feel the one who has come to us this season. To learn more about Mt. Irenaeus, visit www.mounti.com. Music, "A Light Will Shine On Us This Day," by Fr. Cyprian Consiglio. Recorded Dec. 27, 2015. Podcast #144.


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Fighting 15s at Carronade – last call for advance orders
Fighting 15s is at Carronade in Falkirk on Saturday 7 May. Carronade is Fighting 15s' only show as a trader in 2016, and Ian uses the trip to Scotland to take a short holiday to visit castles, museums, steam railways and whisky distilleries, to enjoy Scotland in the springtime, and to keep in touch with his customers in Scotland.
As a result, Fighting 15s does not intend to take stocks of figures to Carronade. He will definitely carry Coat d'arms paints and Fighting 15s' 15mm flags for the Napoleonic and the Seven Years wars at the show. Advance orders for figures are therefore essential. If, at the last moment, Ian feels stocks of 20mm AB WWII and Eureka 28mm moderns are up to surviving the show, he will take them. The pin-up playing cards by Bartek are available at the show through Colonel Bill's, Fighting 15s' representative at UK shows for the cards.
Update: Ian has packed the 20mm AB WWII range for the show.
Ian will have packed the car by the evening of Wednesday 4 May, is travelling from 5 May, and any advance orders should therefore be with him by noon on Wednesday.
Fighting 15s also has planned a trip to see AB sculptor Tony Barton to find out what's coming next from AB Figures.
Fighting 15s itself will be closed from 5 May to 12 May. Orders placed in the online shop will be dealt with on Ian's return as his two elderly cats and his wife, Janet, will not be able to cope with orders while he is away. Do not expect miracles of wargamerly understanding from the cats or, in particular, Janet.
Carronade: http://www.falkirkwargamesclub.org.uk/
1 comment so far
Enjoy the Whisky Ian!


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These days, consumers can outfit their cars with a host of safety features such as curtain air bags and traction control.
But too many times, buyers choose style over safety, says Gabriel Shenhar, a senior auto test engineer for Consumer Reports. "When price is already a sensitive issue and options get scrutinized, most people would prefer alloy wheels and a CD player to curtain air bags," he says.
Even price shopping can be difficult since many options are bundled together in packages and the technology varies from manufacturer to manufacturer. Bottom line: Decide what you need on your car, then shop price.
The must-haves
Want to make sure your new model is properly tricked out, safety-wise? See how many of Consumer Reports' "strongly recommended" items it has:
Anti-lock braking system (ABS): "Some automakers offer them as standard on certain vehicles," says Douglas Love, communications counsel for Consumer Reports. "They can be optional on others. The reason it's on the strongly recommended list is that anti-lock brakes can be of tremendous value when you're in a crash-avoidance situation."
An ABS system "allows you to maintain steering control when you're braking extremely rapidly," says Love.
Side air bags: While air bags are standard equipment these days, you might have to shop around -- or pay a little extra -- to make sure you've got the latest technology. Side-impact air bags protect you and your passengers if the vehicle is hit from the side. Cost: a few hundred dollars to $500, says Shenhar.
Curtain (or head protection) air bags: These are not standard in most vehicles, but are especially important for drivers of sedans with all the SUVs on the road. If your sedan is hit by an SUV, your head is level with its bumper. Curtain air bags help level the playing field by giving you and your passengers more head protection.
Cost: "As little as $250 to $500," says Shenhar.
Traction control: Though different carmakers give this feature different names, it's a system designed to prevent loss of control and flipping by sending power to whichever wheels are gripping the road.
"It limits wheel spin during acceleration so that the drive wheels have maximum traction," says Love. "It's designed to improve a vehicle's ability to get going on wet, snowy, icy roads."
Electronic stability control system: Again, different manufacturers call this by different names and the mechanics behind the system can vary. Simply, it's designed to anticipate a mishap and prevent it. "It applies brakes automatically -- one or more brakes -- and some systems will also reduce engine power," says Love.
The cost: from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, says Shenhar, depending on the maker and how the options are bundled.
"Stability control is one of the options coming up that you will see much more. We would like to see it standard on all SUVs," says David Champion, director of automobile testing for Consumer Reports.
"On any car it can help you," he says. "Especially an inexperienced driver -- you don't have to do anything. The stability control, it comes in automatically."
New in stability control systems: incorporating rollover prevention systems. It adds additional sensors to detect and prevent rollover. Currently, it's available on only a few models. "It's the next step, and it can be a very valuable system," says Love.
Camera or parking sensors in the bumpers: "On average, more than one child is killed every week due to blind spots behind vehicles," says Love. (For more information on blind-spot accidents, visit www.kidsandcars.org/.)
Consumer Reports' finding: Cameras are more effective than sensors, which are more effective than nothing at all. But even the best technology has blind spots.
A camera is usually bundled into the price of a navigation system, which runs about $2,000, says Champion.
"Parking aids (sensors) will help you pick up the location of a fence or post, but will not always pick up a child or small pet," Love says.
These sensors run only a few hundred dollars, says Shenhar.
"If you can't get the car with a camera, get the parking aid, but recognize it has limitations," says Love. "Blind spots behind cars are much greater than you think."
Adjustable pedals: These allow the driver to configure the control area for maximum comfort. "You don't want to be too close to the steering wheel, especially in an air bag situation," says Rick Asher, group manager for General Motors truck communications.
Cost: "Usually a couple of hundred dollars," says Shenhar.
All-wheel drive: Good safety measure for climates with snow and ice. Cost: about $2,000, says Champion.
Heated seats: Great for those cold mornings -- and for resale. The heat is great in the cold, especially if you suffer from back problems.
Cooled seats: In addition, some automakers also offer individually air-conditioned seats. "We love the heated and cooled seats," says Champion. The cooling feature helps long-distance drivers stay fresh and alert, he says.
But testers report they will pass on the massage option, offered in select high-end cars. "It's a bit like the kid behind you pushing on your seat," Champion says.
Nice but not necessary
If money is not the prime driver in your purchase -- or if you spend serious time in your car and just want to splurge a little -- here are some options to consider:
Navigation system: "If you're in your car a lot and going to areas you don't know like the back of your hand, a navigation system can be a great asset," says Love. If not, "There are other, better ways to spend that money." Cost: about $2,000, plus a monthly subscription fee.
DVD player: Entertainment systems are becoming more popular as people try to convert their vehicles into "their home away from home," says Jan-Willem Vester, manager with GM product communications. Some of the new systems offer wireless headphones, so there's less of a distraction for the driver and other passengers.
Premium sound system: Drivers are looking at high-end systems, similar to those they might install in a home. Music-lovers also can elect to have MP3s.
The new wrinkle: satellite radio. Similar to cable TV, but sound only. You buy the system with the car and pay a monthly subscription fee. In return, you get hundreds of channels with different themes such as top 40, talk, R&B, etc. And because the signal comes from a satellite, it stays with you on long trips.
Four-wheel steering: When you turn the steering wheel, all four wheels turn. This option makes driving a pickup or SUV "more like driving a car," says Asher. With the General Motors version, back wheels will turn in the opposite direction from the front wheels at low speeds, he says. At more than 40 mph, the wheels all turn in the same direction.
"If you're inexperienced [in] towing, or towing in tight environment, it does help," says Champion. Cost: about $5,000, he says.
Sequential manual gearbox: A six-speed manual transmission outfitted with controls to shift with steering wheel paddles or a lever, instead of the clutch. "It's an advantage on the highway - you can look straight ahead and shift and never take your hand off the wheel or your eyes off the road," says Gordon Keil, spokesman for BMW.
"It's a way of getting the best of a manual transmission with the convenience of an automatic," says Champion, adding that it will also give slightly better gas mileage. His recommendation: "Nice to have if you're a real sporty driver."
Sunroof/moon roof: "Many of us are spending an hour or two a day in a vehicle," says Love. "For people who use their vehicles for long commutes or long drives on vacation, things like premium sound systems, sunroof and climate control can enhance your time behind the wheel." A factory-installed sunroof or moon roof can give a car the edge at resale time.
Remote start: Tired of getting into a car that's too hot or too cold? Start the car remotely and let it warm up or cool down first. (Just make sure you open the garage door first.) General Motors is introducing the feature on the Malibu this year, says Vester. Cost: approximately $300.
"It's very useful on cold mornings," says Champion: But since it's idling, "It's a bit of a waste on gasoline."
Save your money
There are a few factory options and after-market services that you can forgo, according to auto experts at Consumer Reports.
Active/laser cruise control: Uses sensors to detect vehicles in front of you and will apply brakes to slow the car accordingly.
"We tested this on high-end vehicles and didn't like it very much," says Champion. It tended to cut in quickly "which we didn't think was very comfortable, and it's quite alarming when it occurs," he says. Another problem the testers found: Move out from behind a line of cars to the off ramp and "the car tries to accelerate," Champion says.
"In theory it may prevent some accidents, but we were not overly impressed with it," he says.
VIN etching: This is when the vehicle identification number is permanently inscribed on the car, to aid recovery after theft. The cost: usually about $200 from the dealer, says Love. Compare that to the cost of doing it yourself with a kit: about $30, he says.
Pin stripes: Offered by dealers, pin stripes can be attached via adhesive or hand painted, says Love. It's a question of taste. Cost: about $200, says Love.
After-market undercoating and fabric protection: Remember that scene in "Fargo" where the slick auto salesman tries to pressure a skeptical buyer into paying for undercoating? Well, the Coen brothers got that one right: You really don't need after-market undercoating.
"Modern vehicles come from the factory with a fairly extensive quantity of coatings on the chassis, and those do a pretty darn good job of protecting the vehicle," says Love.
Most people can probably pass up after-market fabric treatments, too. "Unless you have young children eating ice cream in the car on a regular basis," says Love, "you could probably spend the money more wisely elsewhere."
Dana Dratch is a freelance writer based in Atlanta.
-- Posted: Dec. 9, 2003


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Thursday, February 24, 2011
Connor Court Review - Meet the Editorial Board
Connor Court Publishing is beginning its new peer-reviewed journal- The Connor Court Quarterly. The Journal will be edited by Brian Coman. He will be joined on the editorial board by:
Greg Melleuish is an associate professor in the School of History and Politics at the University of Wollongong. He has written extensively in the area of Australian intellectual history including Cultural Liberalism in Australia (Cambridge University Press, 1995) and The Power of Ideas (Australian Scholarly Publishing, 2009). He is currently completing an intellectual portrait of James McAuley (Connor Court, forthcoming).


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Unless you live in the woods and the only thing modern around you is your band spankin' new three-hole outhouse, you and bureaucracies are on a first-name basis whether you like it or not.
And probably you don't like them. Most people get redder than a baboon's behind at the mere mention of the "B" word, yet bureaucracies are tangled up in nearly every aspect of our lives.
No wonder so many people act like apes gone nuts, only worse because they're armed (with weapons, I mean).
The interesting thing about bureaucracies is that, pound-for-pound, they're the most efficient way of organizing large groups of people to get stuff done…when they work as they should.
The problem with bureaucracies (and this is kind of a big problem) is that they hardly ever work as they should. That's why most of us have nothing but PTSD when we think about dealing with any government agency, credit card company, bank, hospital, retailer, university, or you name it.
Maybe if you understand some of the predictable problems with bureaucracies, at least you can play a little game when you run into them, thereby making the experience somewhat more fun.
No? Well, it's worth a try. It's better than wondering how people with supposed brain waves can screw things up so royally and get paid for it. You've got better things to wonder about, like how global warming is different from global climate change and how either will affect your barbecue plans.
Common Problems in All Bureaucracies
The Peter Principle. People will be promoted in an organization to their level of incompetence and stay there. This is a phenomenon observed by a man named Laurence Peter, so it doesn't only apply to managers named Peter. In bureaucracies, people who do a good job are rewarded by being promoted. Well, usually people get promoted one too many times to a job they're not suited for, so they're not getting promoted again. But they've been good employees, so no one want to demote them. So there they stay, being stupid-heads in charge of your area.
Parkinson's Law. I'm not talking about jittery people working at high stress jobs, although there are plenty of those. This idea was posited by Cyril Northcote Parkinson. It's basically the idea that work expands to fill the time made available for it's completion. Deadlines. That's what I'm talking about. Set a deadline for two weeks and everyone needs two weeks to get it done. Move the deadline out another week. Whew! Everyone needed that extra week. Push it up a week. Poof! Somehow the work got completed. It's like that mysterious foamy insulation stuff you see on HGTV home renovation shows. Magic.
Putt's Law. Archibald Putt came up with this law, which describes two types of people in bureaucracies: those who understand what they don't manage and those who don't understand what they do manage. Why in the world would any organization would want incompetent people managing competent people? Simple! Power, Baby. People at the top want to stay at the top, so they don't want any power-grabbing from their middle managers. The Big Cheeses spend a lot of time figuring out how to keep the people who know their shizzle in their place. It's brilliant, really. Put people who don't know anything in charge of people who know everything. But because they are managers, the people who don't know anything think they know everything and the poor grunts at the bottom of the totem pole think they must not know anything because they never get promoted. Neither group is going to threaten the status of the Big Cheese. Forget going to business school, get a degree in psychology…or better yet–sociology (my discipline)!
Paradoxical Red Tape. You know the drill. If you don't have the proper form filled out perfectly with the proper signatures in all the proper places, you might as well go home and cut your toe nails, wait for them to grow, and cut them some more. Bureaucracies are designed for the routine cases, not for special cases. If you fill out the paperwork properly, chances are things will go your way. But if you have any special circumstances, the whole "B" machine comes to a mind-numbing, grinding halt. You'll find yourself wrapped up in more red tape than a holiday package decorated by a OCD crafter from the Midwest.
Next time (which is probably right…about…now) you'll have a run-in with a bureaucracy, just know that:
1. You are not alone. Just shy of 7,000,000,000 people are with you. (The world's population minus a few million to account for people on desert islands, remote regions we haven't wreaked yet, and the voluntarily permanent campers).
2. You tend to forget the many times each day that bureaucracies are humming along smoothly and making your day run well. We tend to notice them only when we have trouble with them–kind of like our neighbors.
3. With the good comes the not-so-good. Your mail gets delivered to you most days just fine. You go to the post office one day just to buy some stamps and have to wait in a line and wonder if some new iPhone just came out and the US Postal Service is now the only place people can get it. It happens (as in shizzle happens).
4. Given your new-found knowledge of all these
pee P laws and principles, if you run into frustrations with your bureaucracy du jour, test yourself to see if you can figure out which problems they are.