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What are website design themes?
Website design themes are professionally pre-built custom website designs that are easily customizable.
Why use themes?
Themes helps speed up the setup and launch of your business website, at a much more affordable price. Our custom design themes are $ 49.95 each.
Can I create my own custom design from scratch?
Yes. For more information, consult the Monkey Business Theme Design Manual.
Where do I buy themes from?
You purchase Monkey Business website themes in minutes from our Themes Marketplace.
How much do themes cost?
Monkey Business Themes are $ 49.95 each. Browse the theme marketplace.
Do you have free themes?
Can't find a theme for the design style I want, what can I do?
No problem, simply complete our custom design theme request form and we'll build it for you in 48hrs.
How customizable are the themes?
Our themes are completely customizable. With the Monkey Business Style Wizard, you can quickly activate your theme, upload your logo, and get color recommendations complementing your brand colors. You can easily change the colors, fonts, icons, and images used in the design. Monkey Business provides over 700 free web fonts to select from, or you can simply install fonts you already purchased and licensed. Monkey Business also provides easy search and find access to over 100,000 stock icons from Monkey Images, and over 25 million images from Flickr and Getty images.
I've bought a theme, now what?
When you buy your custom website theme, it is automatically and immediately installed on the Monkey Business website you specified during the purchase. To use your theme, simply go to your website to activate and customize it. Review Monkey Business User Guide
Where do I find the themes I purchased?
Themes you purchased for each project are listed on the My Projects page, in the Themes section. From here, you can view themes you purchased for that project, and if necessary, reinstall it again.
How do I activate a theme on my website?
Easy... follow these steps.
How do I customize my new theme?
Easy... follow these steps.
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text: Ronald McDonald House, D+S's designated charity, held its annual Ladies Lunch on Sunday 30 October 2016. The event was supported by over 250 ladies and raised £11,500!! D+S supported this by both attending and volunteering at the event. Gill Kirkness hosted a table whilst Lesley- jean Shaw assisted with the fund raising at the event. It was obvious the Ronald McDonald team had worked extremely hard and this led to it being such a success.

subset: commoncrawl


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Taking care of your RV and/or tow vehicle is very important, but replacing your tow bar is equally important. This is because tow bars too suffer from wear and tear. Just consider the amount of traffic you experience when driving your car, and the number of times you are made to stop and start your vehicle on roads. Every time you stop and begin moving forward, you place stress on the towbar. Leaving the tow bar as it is can leave you and other drivers on the road vulnerable and on harm's way.
To know whether it's time to replace your towbar or not, you must check some of the important pieces of your tow bar. First, you must look at the pins. They are quite simple to check in and each time you use your towbar, you can get to know their condition. If you can not make out whether the pins are in good condition or not by merely looking at them, you may remove the casing and run your fingers along the surface of the pins. If you notice any indentions or wear and tear, you must replace the tow bar immediately as loose pins or those that are worn out can prove quite fatal.
Likewise, make sure that the pins do not wiggle and that they span into place securely. Also, the pins when put back in place must offer a lot of resistance.
You must also access the bolts and the structural integrity of the hitches of your tow bar. Replace the tow bars melbourne at once if you find any issues with the parts mentioned above. By replacing the tow bar, you can enjoy safe and care-free travel.


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Egyptian Boat 3D Model
12th dynasty wooden model of funeral barge: The hull is shallow, with narrow beam; graceful curve to sheer-line. Deck slightly hollowed out, leaving low gunwales which merge into bow and stern; the two latter have the ornamental finials usual in funeral barges.
Length: 77.5 centimetres Width: 13.4 centimetres Depth: 6 centimetres
COL: http://www.britishmuseum.org/research/collection_online/collection_object_details.aspx?partId=1&objectId=125320
Co-created model with photomasking by @micropasts contributors. Missing some photographs due to speed of capture and no chance to turn over. Model created from 190 photos (taken with Nikon D5100) by Daniel Pett.


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Sen. Johnny Isakson is using his seniority in the Senate to fight for Georgia's military establishments. Isakson served in the Georgia Air National Guard and currently chairs the Senate Committee on Veterans' Affairs. He is leading efforts to hold the VA accountable and secure Georgia's military presence. Daniel Malloy from… Read more
'No deal with the Iranians will be …agreed to…as long as the people of Israel are not respected, protected and honored' WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Johnny Isakson spoke on the Senate floor today regarding the Iran Nuclear Agreement Review Act of 2015, S.615, that requires the president to submit a… Read more
Get the latest from Johnny
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When it comes to 403(b) plans, an early withdrawal means any distribution taken before you turn 59 1/2 years old. In addition to setting back your retirement savings, early 403(b) withdrawals are also hit with income taxes and, unless an exception applies to all or some of the distribution, an extra tax penalty.
When Permitted
Just because you want the money in your 403(b) plan doesn't mean you're allowed to get it out. If you're under 59 1/2, the Internal Revenue Service only lets you take money out if you've left the job, suffered a permanent disability or have an extreme financial hardship. If you're still working for the same organization and you just want to go on a really nice honeymoon after you tie the knot, you're out of luck.
Income Taxes
Just like a qualified withdrawal in retirement, your early 403(b) withdrawal counts as taxable income when you file your tax return. When you put the money in, it wasn't counted as taxable income for that year, so the Internal Revenue Service requires you to pay taxes on the withdrawals. The money counts as ordinary income, so the higher your other income, the higher the tax rate on your 403(b) withdrawal. For example, if you fall in the 10 percent bracket, a $2,000 distribution will cost you $200 in income taxes. But, if you're in the 25 percent bracket, that same withdrawal costs you $500.
Early Withdrawal Penalty
On top of the taxes, you also owe a 10 percent tax penalty on your early withdrawal, barring an exception. To make matters worse, just owing this penalty is enough to make you file an income tax return -- even if you weren't otherwise required to do so. For example, say you're unemployed during the year and your only income is a $2,000 early 403(b) withdrawal. Even though you might not owe any taxes because your income is so low, you're required to file to pay the $200 penalty.
Penalty Exceptions
In a few cases, you might be able to avoid paying the extra 10 percent early withdrawal penalty on your early 403(b) distribution, but only if you meet the specific requirements of an exception. For example, you don't have to pay the 10 percent penalty on the portion of your withdrawal equal to your medical expenses that exceed 10 percent of your adjusted gross income. You also avoid the penalty if the distribution is pursuant to a qualified domestic relations order as part of a divorce; if the IRS levies your 403(b) plan; or if you're permanently disabled. While a general financial hardship might allow you to take an early withdrawal, it won't get you out of the penalties.
Photo Credits
- Creatas/Creatas/Getty Images


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Kitselas Public Works & Infrastructure provides and manages a variety of community services and assets:
• Water
• Road Maintenance
• Waste, Recycling and Compost
• Snow removal equipment, etc.
• Building
Kitselas public works and infrastructure is overseen by the Kitselas Public Works, Housing & Infrastructure Department.
Visit the Regional District of Kitimat Stikine website for more information about recycling, garbage and compost/organics.
More info about how these services work in Kitselas. Who provides them? What is provided to people – cans, etc.
A reminder to all Kitselas residents that soft plastics such as: bread bags, shopping bags, plastic cover wrap on water bottles, etc are not to be in your recyclables. Also styrofoam and glass jars.
These items will now have to be brought to Do-Your-Part recycling in Thornhill by you and will not be picked up on Tuesday's with your curbside recycling.
Please keep these items out to avoid having your recyclables left behind.
These items can be disposed in the garbage or brought to local depots including: Do-Your-Part recycling, Return It depot.
Compost/Organic Guidelines
• To the curb no later than 10:00am
• Container must be no more than 50lbs
• All food waste must be placed in a rigid, lidded container
• Bags that have 'compostable' logo's on them are accepted (plastic or paper).
• Any biodegradable labelled bags will not be accepted as that type of plastic does not truly break down.
Garbage Guidelines
• To the curb no later than 12noon
• No more than 50 lbs per bag
• Use clear garbage bags only, all other bags will not be picked up
• Follow all recycling and organics guidelines, any recycling or food waste found in garbage will not be picked up so please check your bags carefully to avoid it being left behind


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This is my bank of good thoughts. Whenever I come across a post of someone asking for good thoughts for themselves or people they know, I write their name on a piece of paper with the date and the reason for their request (health, finances, support, etc.) This is my way of sending good, positive vibes out to those who need it. And I know that if I ever need those vibes myself, they will be returned. Everyone should have a bank like this. Make it as positive as you like. Mine has lots of glitter and its main colour is blue because to me it's a healing, peaceful, positive colour.
>Deposit only


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Steps away from Mekong River, Vansana Riverside Hotel offers cosy accommodation with private balconies and en suite bathrooms. It boasts an outdoor pool and a nightclub. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel.
Vansana Riverside Hotel is only a 5-minute ride from Vientiane City Center and Night Market. It is a 10-minute drive from Wattay International Airport and a 20-minute drive from Patuxai Arch.
Fitted with wooden floors, comfortable rooms at the hotel are equipped with air conditioning, a cable TV and a seating area. Free toiletries and shower facilities are in the en suite bathrooms.
For convenience, the hotel provides a 24-hour front desk, a business centre as well as meeting facilities. Staff at the tour desk can help guests with sightseeing arrangements.
Vansana Restaurant serves an extensive a la carte menus of Thai and Laos cuisines.
Featuring free WiFi, a restaurant and an outdoor pool, Vansana Riverside Hotel offers accommodation in Vientiane. Guests can enjoy the on-site bar.
The rooms are equipped with a TV. Certain units feature a seating area where you can relax. You will find a kettle in the room. All rooms are equipped with a private bathroom.
There is a 24-hour front desk at the property.
Laos National Museum is 1.4 km from Vansana Riverside Hotel, while Wat Sisaket is 1.9 km away. The nearest airport is Wattay International Airport, 3 km from Vansana Riverside Hotel.


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There is nothing more celebratory than a firework finale for an anniversary or party and Shell Shock have been involved in some sumptuous private events in the UK and internationally.
We tailor special effects and fireworks to blend with music, lights and projections – every Shell Shock display is designed to suit the venue. We can create awe in the smallest of spaces – from small gardens to stately homes.
Forget about hand held confetti on your wedding day… if you want to create real impact let Shell Shock provide a stunning cloud of fresh rose petals that cascade down over the bride and groom, providing a unique and highly memorable photo opportunity.
The petals can reach up to 25 feet and come in a variety of colours. Large cannons are used to fire them, no explosive is required and they are totally safe to use at any venue.
We can also provide a stunning ripple of fire down the drive for the bride and groom's departure, flame effects and full blown musical fireworks displays.
Wedding credits include Posh & Becs – Ireland, Melon & Beckwith – Blenheim Palace, and Royal Weddings in the UAE.
Click here to view the gallery.
Contact us to find out more.


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New 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD Work Truck
We'll contact you shortly.
Vehicle Summary
- Condition: New
- Certified: Yes
- Mileage: 19
- Engine: Gas V8 6.0L/366
- Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic
- Drivetrain: RWD
- Exterior Color: Summit White
- Interior Color: Dark Ash with Jet Black Interior Accents
- City MPG:
- Highway MPG:
Vehicle Highlights
Vehicle Details
SUMMIT WHITE exterior and DARK ASH / JET BLACK ACCENTS interior, Work Truck trim. Back-Up Camera, Tow Hitch, WT CONVENIENCE PACKAGE AND MORE! KEY FEATURES INCLUDE Back-Up Camera, Trailer Hitch OPTION PACKAGES WT CONVENIENCE PACKAGE includes (AKO) tinted windows, (KI4) 110V outlet, (AQQ) Remote Keyless Entry and (A91) remote locking tailgate. Double Cab and Regular Cab includes (DPN) outside heated power-adjustable vertical trailering mirrors. Crew Cab includes (DL8) outside, heated power-adjustable mirrors. TRANSMISSION, 6-SPEED AUTOMATIC, HEAVY-DUTY, ELECTRONICALLY CONTROLLED with overdrive and tow/haul mode. Includes Cruise Grade Braking and Powertrain Grade Braking (STD), MIRRORS, OUTSIDE HEATED POWER-ADJUSTABLE VERTICAL TRAILERING, UPPER GLASS, MANUAL-FOLDING AND EXTENDING, BLACK; Includes integrated turn signal indicators consisting of 51 square inch flat mirror surface positioned over a 24.5 square inch convex mirror surface with a common head and lower convex spotter glass (convex glass is not heated and not power adjustable) and addition of auxiliary cargo lamp for backing up (helps to see trailer when backing up with a trailer) and amber auxiliary clearance lamp Includes (DD8) auto-dimming inside rearview mirror. AUDIO SYSTEM, CHEVROLET INFOTAINMENT SYSTEM WITH 7" DIAGONAL COLOR TOUCH-SCREEN, AM/FM STEREO with seek-and-scan and digital clock, includes Bluetooth streaming audio for music and select phones. (STD), ENGINE, VORTEC 6.0L VARIABLE VALVE TIMING V8 SFI, E85-COMPATIBLE Electronic Stability Control, Vinyl Seats, 4-Wheel ABS, 4-Wheel Disc Brakes, Tire Pressure Monitoring System. Edmunds.com's review says "You'll find big WHO WE ARE We are committed to being NUMBER ONE IN OWNER LOYALTY, by providing the knowledge and resources to completely satisfy your needs. CALL TODAY FOR SPECIAL INTERNET PRICING! Horsepower calculations based on trim engine configuration. Please confirm the accuracy of the included equipment by calling us prior to purchase.
- 6-speaker audio system
- Assist handle, front passenger and driver on A-pillars
- Bluetooth for phone, personal cell phone connectivity to vehicle audio system
- Door locks, power
- Floor covering, Graphite-colored rubberized-vinyl
- Seat, rear full-width folding bench, 3-passenger (includes child seat top tether anchor) (Requires Double Cab models.)
- SiriusXM Radio, delete
- Steering wheel
- Air conditioning, single-zone
- Audio system, Chevrolet Infotainment System with 7" diagonal color touch-screen, AM/FM stereo with seek-and-scan and digital clock, includes Bluetooth streaming audio for music and select phones.
- Cruise control, steering wheel-mounted
- Driver Information Center, 3.5-inch diagonal monochromatic display provides warning messages and basic vehicle information
- Instrumentation, 6-gauge cluster featuring speedometer, fuel level, engine temperature, tachometer, voltage and oil pressure
- Seats, front 40/20/40 split-bench, 3-passenger, driver and front passenger recline with outboard head restraints and center fold-down armrest with storage. Vinyl has fixed lumbar and cloth has manually adjustable driver lumbar. (Upgradeable to (AZ3) front 40/20/40 split-bench seat.)
- Steering column, manual Tilt-Wheel
- Windows, power with driver express up and down and express down on all other windows (Standard on Crew Cab and Double Cab models. On Regular Cab, included and only available with (PCM) WT Convenience Package.) (Standard on Crew Cab and Double Cab models. On Regular Cab model, included and only available with (PCM) WT Fleet Convenience Package (Double Cab and Regular Cab.)
- Air cleaner, high-capacity
- Battery, heavy-duty 720 cold-cranking amps/80 Amp-hr, maintenance-free with rundown protection and retained accessory power
- Capless Fuel Fill (Gas engine only. Not available with (ZW9) pickup box delete.)
- Cooling, external engine oil cooler
- Exhaust, aluminized stainless-steel muffler and tailpipe
- GVWR, 9500 lbs. (4309 kg) (Requires CK25903 model, (L96) Vortec 6.0L V8 SFI engine or (LC8) 6.0L V8 SFI Gaseous CNG/LPG capable engine. Not available with CK25943.)
- Rear axle, 4.10 ratio (Requires (L96) Vortec 6.0L V8 SFI engine or (LC8) 6.0L V8 SFI Gaseous CNG/LPG capable engine.)
- Recovery hooks, front, frame-mounted, black
- Suspension Package, Standard includes 51mm twin tube shock absorbers and 33mm front stabilizer bar
- Trailering equipment Trailering hitch platform 2.5" with a 2.0" insert for HD, 7-wire harness with independent fused trailering circuits mated to a 7-way sealed connector to hook up parking lamps, backup lamps, right and left turn signals, an electric brake lead, battery and a ground, The trailer connector also includes the 4-way for use on trailers without brakes - park, brake/turn lamps (Standard on Double Cab or Regular Cab models with a pickup box and includes (JL1) integrated trailer brake controller. Included with (PCN) Silverado HD Custom on Crew Cab models. Not available with (ZW9) pickup box delete or (9J4) rear bumper delete.)
- Alternator, 150 amps
- Brakes, 4-wheel antilock, 4-wheel disc with DuraLife brake rotors
- Cooling, auxiliary external transmission oil cooler
- Differential, heavy-duty locking rear
- Frame, fully-boxed, hydroformed front section
- Pickup box
- Rear wheel drive
- Steering, Recirculating Ball with smart flow power steering system
- Trailer brake controller, integrated
- Transmission, 6-speed automatic, heavy-duty, electronically controlled with overdrive and tow/haul mode. Includes Cruise Grade Braking and Powertrain Grade Braking (Requires (L96) Vortec 6.0L V8 SFI engine or (LC8) 6.0L V8 SFI Gaseous CNG/LPG capable engine.)
- Airbags, Double Cab: Single-stage frontal airbag for driver; Dual-stage front airbag for front outboard passenger; Seat-mounted side-impact airbags for driver and front outboard passenger; Head-curtain airbags for front and rear outboard seating positions; Includes front outboard Passenger Sensing System for frontal outboard passenger airbag (With (ZW9) pickup box delete on Double Cab and Regular Cab you will get the following: Single-stage frontal airbags for driver and front outboard passenger; Seat-mounted side-impact airbags for driver and front outboard passenger; Head-curtain airbags for front and rear outboard seating positions; Includes airbag deactivation switch for front outboard passenger airbag. Always use seat belts and child restraints. Children are safer when properly secured in a rear seat in the appropriate child restraint. See the Owner's Manual for more information. Regular Cab model does not have rear outboard seating positions.)
- OnStar, delete also deletes driver information center compass.
- StabiliTrak, stability control system with Proactive Roll Avoidance and traction control includes electronic trailer sway control and hill start assist
- Tire Pressure Monitoring System with Tire Fill Alert (does not apply to spare tire)
- Daytime Running Lamps with automatic exterior lamp control
- Rear Vision Camera (Removed when (ZW9) pickup box delete is ordered.)
- Teen Driver configurable feature that lets you activate customizable vehicle settings associated with a key fob, to encourage safe driving behavior. It can limit certain vehicle features, and it prevents certain safety systems from being turned off. An in-vehicle report card gives you information on your teen's driving habits and helps you to continue to coach your new driver
- Bumper, front chrome
- CornerStep, rear bumper (Requires (E63) pickup box.)
- Glass, solar absorbing, tinted
- Grille, chrome with chrome mesh inserts
- Lamps, cargo area, cab mounted with switch on center switch bank
- Tailgate and bed rail protection caps, top
- Tailgate, locking, utilizes same key as ignition and door (Not available with (AQQ) Remote Keyless Entry.)
- Tires, LT245/75R17E all-season, blackwall
- Bumper, rear chrome with bumper CornerSteps (Requires (E63) pickup box.)
- Door handles, Black
- Grille surround, chrome
- Headlamps, halogen projector-beam
- Mirrors, outside high-visibility vertical trailering, Black with manual folding and extension and lower convex spotter glass (Standard on Double Cab or Regular Cab models. Included on Crew Cab models with (ANQ) Alaskan Snow Plow Special Edition. Not available with (PCM) WT Convenience Package.) (Standard on Double Cab or Regular Cab models. Included on Crew Cab models with (ANQ) Alaskan Snow Plow Special Edition. Not available with (PCM) WT Fleet Convenience Package (Double Cab and Regular Cab).)
- Tailgate, EZ-Lift and Lower (Standard and only available on Double Cab models. Deleted when (ZW9) pickup box delete is ordered.)
- Tire carrier lock keyed cylinder lock that utilizes same key as ignition and door (Not included when (ZW9) pickup box delete or (9J4) rear bumper delete is ordered.)
- Wheels, 17" (43.2 cm) steel includes 17" x 7.5" (43.2 cm x 19.1 cm) steel spare wheel. Spare not included with (ZW9) pickup box delete unless a spare tire is ordered
All advertised vehicles are subject to actual dealer availability. Certain vehicles listed may not be available, or may have different prices. Prices are plus government fees and taxes, any finance changes, any dealer document processing charges, any electronic filing charge, and any emission testing charge. Vehicle option and pricing are subject to change. Prices include all dealer rebates and dealer incentives. Pricing and availability varies by dealership. Please check with your dealer for more information. Prices do not include dealer charges, such as advertising, that can vary by manufacturer or region, or costs for selling, preparing, displaying or financing the vehicle. Images displayed may not be representative of the actual trim level of a vehicle. Colors shown are the most accurate representations available. However, due to the limitations of web and monitor color display, we cannot guarantee that the colors depicted will exactly match the color of the car. Information provided is believed accurate but all specifications, pricing, and availability must be confirmed in writing (directly) with the dealer to be binding. Neither the Dealer nor Fox Dealer Interactive is responsible for any inaccuracies contained herein and by using this application you the customer acknowledge the foregoing and accept such terms.
Net Price DOES NOT include dealer or vendor installed upgrades, accessories, or added after market items. Those products are OPTIONAL and can be purchased for an additional cost. Call For Details!*
Final prices are price shown plus government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any dealer document preparation charge, and any emission testing charge. *George Chevrolet Discount includes dealer discount and red tag rebate.


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Leicester Castle Classic Cycle Race - Sun.18th August 2013
Top level cycle racing will make a return to Leicester this summer thanks to a partnership between Leicester City Council and British Cycling.
The inaugural Leicester Castle Classic cycle race will take place on Sunday 18 August.
Full details of the circuit are still being finalised, although organisers have confirmed that the two-hour race will take place around Castle Gardens in the city's Old Town, and along the banks of the 'Mile Straight' stretch of the River Soar.
British Cycling are hoping to attract elite level teams for the headline race, but amateur cyclists will also have the opportunity to race the circuit with a junior race, corporate challenge, and 'choppers and shoppers' event all proposed.
Races will run from midday until 6pm on traffic free roads, with entertainment, refreshments and lots of opportunities to give cycle sport a go available in the race village.
Click Below to Go To The British Cycling Event Web Page
Organisers reveal race route as Britain's top cycling teams gear up for Leicester's new elite cycle raceOrganisers of the inaugural Leicester Castle Classic cycle race have revealed the route that some of Britain's top professional cyclists will take when they contest the new city centre race on Sunday 18 August.The 80km 'kermesse' race will see riders contest laps of a fast and technical 4km anticlockwise circuit around the Old Town and Mile Straight areas of the city. Racing will start and finish on Western Boulevard where riders will then head south along the River Soar down Raw Dykes Road. At the King Power Stadium the riders will head back north along the other side of the river through De Montfort University where they will cross the bridge at Mill Lane before heading back over the river again at The Newarke to tackle the most technical part of the course around Leicester Castle which includes a tricky cobbled section. The racing will be non-stop action with riders expected to hit speeds of up to 40mph on the run into the finish. Locals can look forward to an afternoon of drama and entertainment from a top class field drawn from some of Britain's major professional cycling teams. Entries are still open for the race but amongst those already signed up to take the start line on 18 August will be a Rapha Condor JLT team that includes double Olympic gold medallist and winner of three rounds of the 2013 Pearl Izumi Tour Series, Ed Clancy MBE and former British National Road Race Champion Kristian House. They'll face stiff competition from Team IG Sigma Sport who will have recent Ryedale GP winner Joe Perrett riding, Node4 Giordana who will have 2013 Wales Open Criterium winner Mike Northey representing them and the Great Britain Academy Squad (100% ME) which includes World Points Race Champion Simon Yates.The elite racing gets underway at 15:00 but earlier in the afternoon there will a chance for amateur cyclists to race on the circuit in two fun races. From 13:00 there will be a Corporate Relay Challenge which is open to any organisation putting forward four riders and from 13:30 there will be a "Choppers 'n' Shoppers" fun race open to riders of all abilities on shoppers, choppers and commuter bikes. The races can be entered at www.britishcycling.org.uk/leicestercastleclassic . Entry fees for both races are being donated to the Joe Humphries Memorial Trust.Leicester's summer of cycling will continue on Sunday 25 August when local people will have the chance to ride parts of the Leicester Castle Classic race circuit when Sky Ride Leicester returns. People can find more information and register for the event at www.goskyride.com/LeicesterSkyRide.City Mayor Peter Soulsby said: "It is very exciting that our partnership with British Cycling means that we are able to bring the spectacle of top-level cycle racing back to Leicester with the inaugural Castle Classic."Events like this, and Leicester's incredibly popular Sky Ride, play a big part in inspiring people to get involved in cycling as a hobby, as a sport or just as an everyday way of getting about the city."The Leicester Castle Classic has been organised in partnership between British Cycling and Leicester City Council.The latest news and information about the Leicester Castle Classic is also on the event Facebook page at www.facebook.com/LeicesterCastleClassic.


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The lights drive is a holiday tradition more fiercely guarded in some families than who gets the turkey wishbone and who has to wear the fake reindeer antlers for the annual picture. Los Angeles has several twinkly spots -- many in neighborhoods that never receive a shout-out -- that either make for a brief spin (a few houses here and there) or a full-on night. Here are a few you might not have seen this year, or you might want to eye again before the inflatable snowmen come down off the roof:
DWP Holiday Light Festival: The grandest glow-fest of the season, right in Griffith Park. Shuttle bus service is available from 5-10PM from the parking lot of the zoo. We like the large scale of the displays, and the recognizable landmarks. Upshot? Cheery. Very.
Neighborhood Tours: Outdoing the guy next door at Christmas gets a bit more competitive every year. It's a good competition, and the winners? The bundled-up viewers who drive by to admire. Check out these sparkle spots, from Burbank to Torrance.
Hotel Holiday: Several hotels do it up with gewgaws and bows and whatnot. Our pick for bedazzlement is The Mission Inn in Riverside. The lifelike carolers who stand on various levels around the building? Marvelous.
House too cozy to head out? Check out tons of lights here. No gas spent, plenty of oohing and aahing.


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On Thursday, April 4th, more than 140 people attended a presentation and mixer at Main Street Landing. What brought people together from fields as varied as education, city planning, scientific research, performance art, civil engineering, policy-making, and finance? The draw was something both focused and expansive, both particular and universal, both conceptual and applicable: Design-Thinking.
Our facilitator was Jessica Munro, a Stanford alumna and former IDEO designer. Jess has both infused human-centered design principles into her work with the private sector, and integrated the process of "design thinking" into educational settings. This varied background made her a wonderful tour-guide, as we entered this new landscape. (To see the Burlington Free Press profile of Jess, click here.)
An earlier post, entitled "What is Design-Thinking?" serves as a basic primer to this approach. What follows is a conversation with a few individuals who attended a day-long workshop with Jess Munro on Friday, April 5th. On that day, 16 teachers and 10 community-partners experienced a deep immersion in the design-thinking process, made connections to their own workplaces, and used this unique platform to develop new partnerships between school and community.
Contributors include WHS Technology Integrationist, Drew Blanchard; Shelburne Farms-Education for Sustainability Partnership Coordinator, Sarah Kadden; BHS Science teacher, Molly Heath; and BHS Social Studies teacher, Nadya Bech-Conger.
Nadya in an unfiltered moment of "Yes, and..." ideation!
What struck you most about Design-Thinking?
Drew: Design Thinking closely mirrors the way I taught in my own classrooms. I've used the Design Thinking process while working in other industries, too, and always thought it was a bit odd it hasn't made inroads in our educational systems. I'm not a fan of imposing artificial protocols on conversations (I find them to be distracting and stifling) but I DO see the merits of using the Design Thinking process in our work.
Sarah: The thoughtfulness in being explicit and intentional in each step really allows for both creative freedom and a sense of forward momentum. I think so often we skip steps or head directly to "problem solving" without clarity about what the problem actually is, or without having a clear sense of the systems the "problem" is connected to. This methodology also allows for totally unexpected insights that can illuminate other patterns at play in our lives and work.
Molly: One thing learning about Design Thinking made me realize is how often we try to go immediately from problems to solutions. When a problem appears in teaching or in life, I want to find a solution. Design Thinking showed me the value of taking the time to observe the problem, gather information about it, and distill the critical element or elements before working toward solutions.
Nadya: I was stuck by the way that getting ideas out there fast–before they are 'polished'–is good for my teaching practice and for my students' learning.
What about the PROCESS or APPROACH seems particularly interesting, valuable, or applicable?
Drew: Students relate well to, and are excited by, projects with real merit and value. Design Thinking provides a process in which students can work steadily toward their goal – provided they have properly scaffolded supports, and they feel encouraged/empowered to safely make mistakes.
Sarah: An intentional, somewhat prescribed approach can feel limiting to those of us who feel more comfortable with less structure (I know this from my work with Critical Friends Group protocols), but having some clarity in process really allows for more authentic collaboration. Its impossible, in this approach, not to day-light issues you weren't aware of at the beginning. It also allows for more authentic, and I think, equitable, collaboration. You really need multiple perspectives to move forward, and this process not only allows for, but requires it.
Molly: Within the process itself, there are several pieces that stood out to me as highly applicable in the classroom and in the field of teaching. One was rapid prototyping. We tend to want to perfect ideas before sharing them with others, perhaps because we are concerned about being judged on the basis of those ideas. However, the more time you invest in perfecting your idea, the less willing you will be to accept critical feedback on that idea. Rapid prototyping allows you to receive feedback at the time it is most useful, while your ideas are still forming, and you are open to incorporating new perspectives. I see potential to apply this technique in a variety of ways within classroom instruction. What if students created a rapid prototype, perhaps a story board, before writing the first draft of an essay? They could get immediate feedback on their rough ideas before writing a single word. This could lead to a much more focused first draft that was easier for students to write and probably of better quality. Rapid prototyping could also be used to help students design an experiment in science. Again, after receiving feedback on a quick prototype of their experimental design, students will be able to refine their idea before presenting it to the teacher. This could potentially save time, because, as all teachers know, low quality work takes much more time to assess than high quality work does. It also allows for deeper discussion between students and a chance for them to learn from each other.
Can you envision a way that this process–or parts of this process–might shift how you approach your work?
Drew: The idea of "rapid prototyping" is the most foreign and uncomfortable aspect of the Design Thinking process, but, arguably, the most important. It's also the area in which most teachers and students will need support. As a society, we're trained to wait until our work is "good enough" before presenting it – fostering inhibitions and discouraging innovation. Design Thinking's concept of rapid prototyping is actually a return to a more natural way of solving problems – one which very young students and children inherently understand (but which adult society discourages).
Sarah: It's already given me insight into working collaboratively with multiple stakeholders, into really taking time to think big–and even to "think silly"–and to be true to processes. I believe strongly that everyone has expertise, and this is a process that seems to recognize that. I also think the rapid prototyping is really powerful. In education, everything feels incredibly high stakes, and the culture around mistakes isn't always healthy. But mistakes are how we learn. I'm going to try and build more rapid prototying into my work with teachers and with students. There's so much we can learn from just trying.
Molly: One piece of the Design Thinking process I know I will apply within the classroom and in my professional life is around brainstorming. Brainstorming is an important process for idea generation, but we often approach it with an inappropriate or limiting attitude. I would like to teach the "Yes, and…" mindset for brainstorming to both my students and colleagues. It was amazing to me how this simple phrase, "Yes, and…," could transform the cohesiveness of a group and allow for the generation of ideas that were far more interesting and creative.
Nadya: Yes. It already has. I am using pieces of this process with 9th graders. Currently, they are creating an educational video debunking myths and stereotypes about Islam. We used the "Yes, and…" brainstorm mindset to build ideas. Later in the process, students received feedback on their "rapid prototypes." Receiving feedback early in the process allowed them to make revisions with an end-user in mind, which helped reinforce perspective-taking.
Are the skills and dispositions nurtured by Design Thinking important for students, employees, and citizens?
Sarah: I think its vital for everyone, regardless of the role they play in the community, to undertand, and deeply believe in their own capacity to create change. Because Design Thinking is fundamentally collaborative, and fundamentally about possibilities, it changes the paradigm of who holds knolwedge and authority. Using this with students, with employees and with citizens–who don't always feel like they have power (and quite frankly, often don't)–seems tremendously important and vital if we are going to build truly just and sustainable communities.
Nadya: YES. The idea-generation–going for quantity rather than quality–is something many of our students have a hard time with. They try one idea, one strategy, rather than multiple. This process is also GREAT for heterogeneous grouping, because it provides a way for every learner to have a point-of-entry, and a voice.
Do you have any additional thoughts?
Drew: What's usually missing with children's' "rapid prototyping" experiments is the feedback and self reflection critical for success. This, again, is a societal issue – our lack of "stick-to-it-iveness" means rapid prototyping/quick failure often leads to abandoning the project. Self reflection is an area in which I see many students struggling. However, I'm concerned their lack of self reflection often comes from the fact they're working on "artificial" projects and tasks. Design Thinking won't solve this bigger problem, but it may be a way to encourage teachers (and students) to seek more inherently valuable and interesting (and self-selected) projects — and this is where the self-reflection and feedback will pay dividends.


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Rod Slemmons, Like a One-Eyed Cat: Photographs by Lee Friedlander 1956-1987, New York, 1989, pl. 41, p. 34 (another example illustrated)
Peter Galassi, Friedlander, exh. cat., The Museum of Modern Art, New York, 2005, pl. 194, p. 141 (another example illustrated)
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In our previous post, we discussed semigroups according to mathematics and we conclude that semigroups have two properties called closure and associativity. But still, we have some questions like:
How can we use semigroups by using Scala?
Where do we require to use semigroups?
First, let's try to figure out, when and where we require semigroups in our code and during this we will automatically figure out, how can we use semigroups as well. First of all, we have an example which is divided into steps and during this example, we are going to explore semigroups pragmatically.
We have class Money which contains states called dollars and cents. We know, the behavior of money is that, it can either be added or subtracted. For that, we need to create a method called
add .
Now we have
add method for money, but what if we require to add Ints, Floats or even Maps? For this, we need to create separate methods for each:
Now, we have three methods, addMoney, addInt, and addMap. But all of the methods perform the same binary operation. So, if we require a generic method for all, How can we do that?
Scala provides a beautiful feature called traits. We need to create one trait and create an abstract method called
add in the trait.
Now, we have a common trait which contains an abstract method called
add and we are pretty much familiar, according to our requirement we can implement add method based on our required types like Int, Float, Money, Map and more.
So, before moving into the type implementations for the
add method, we will be creating another method, which creates an abstraction between implementation and performs an operation according to passed types as below:
In this snippet, we are doing nothing, just using only another beautiful feature of Scala called implicit and execute the method
add in Addable type.
Now, let's create an implementation of Addable type
add method according to our requirements. Currently, we require to implement add method, for Int, Money and Map types. So we code as below:
Now, if we call the add method, which interacts with the user and create an abstract layer, so according to passed type the method executes the implementation and gives us a result. The whole code of the example is as below:
But still, In the whole example where are semigroups???
So, if you remember, one of the properties in semigroups is closure. Where we perform some operation on 2 elements of set and answer belongs to the same set. If we look into the Addable
add method, which performs some operation on the basis of type and returns the same type, that exactly is called semigroup.
Semigroups in functional programming contain only one method called
combine, which combines the same type elements and return the same type of results. In the above example, we need to write a lot of custom code but Scala has a beautiful library called scala-cats, which contains predefined interface called Semigroup and that interface contains a method called combine. So, we need to implement
combine method according to our type but scala-cats provide a lot of predefined implementations of combine method according to predefined types like Int, Double, Map, List and more.
Now we need to refactor above example according to scala-cats as below:
The whole examples are picked from this blog. They have explained semigroups is an easy manner with real-life examples and I really love it. Following are some real-life scenarios where semigroups come into the picture:
- Domain Modeling: While you design your model according to your business domain, you should identify, your domain has a property like a combine or not.
- Combine multiple logs parallelly: As we know, semigroups also support the associative property, that means, we can easily distribute our implementation between multiple clusters of gather logs and at last, combine them all.
- and more…
- https://www.trivento.io/functional-programming-with-semigroups/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qnkn4612ZIQ&list=PLe6EXFvnTV7-uoA2q87knvf36cbkk7t3m&index=1


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An excellent study of Nazi Germany's vision, implementation of their leader's vision, management challenges and the subsequent collapse of the third reich, from the end of WWI to the end of WWII. Very well written and based on detailed research of the key leaders of the Nazi movement. There is little direct comparison with modern political movements, but there are lesson to learn from this history that are relevant to today's turmoil within Europe and to global international relations.
excellent overview of Hitler's impact on Europe
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Inmate release plan imperils state budget pace
CALIFORNIA'S FISCAL CRISIS Early release: Spending cuts that free inmates imperil compromise
Less than 24 hours after Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger and the state's top lawmakers announced a tentative budget compromise, the hard-fought deal was in jeopardy over spending cuts that would result in the early release of thousands of prison inmates.
The deal reached Monday night included $1.2 billion in prison spending cuts - but did not specify how those cuts would be accomplished.
On Tuesday, the governor's top prison official unveiled the specifics - infuriating Republicans who called the proposal a nonstarter that could kill the budget deal.
The plan, according to Matt Cate, Schwarzenegger's top prison official, would reduce the prison population this year by 27,000 inmates, some of whom would be released early. There are 167,700 inmates.
The plan includes:
-- Sending thousands of old and sick inmates to non-prison hospitals.
-- Allowing some nonviolent, inmates, but no sex offenders, to serve the last year of their sentence under house arrest.
-- Allowing some nonviolent inmates to earn time served by receiving a GED certificate or vocational training.
-- Creating a sentencing commission to overhaul the state's sentencing laws.
The governor would also begin considering the fate of thousands of illegal immigrant inmates who could be turned over to federal authorities for deportation.
GOP lawmakers accused the administration of double-crossing them in budget talks.
"Budget negotiations depend on the good-faith actions of all parties," Assembly Republican leader Sam Blakeslee of San Luis Obispo said in a statement.
A proposal to release inmates early was "never discussed or agreed to by Republicans," he said. "We made it abundantly clear during negotiations that such policies would endanger the public and were unacceptable."
Blakeslee's fellow Republicans said they wouldn't approve any part of the budget deal.
"This is not what we agreed to, and if it's finalized ... there won't be any Republican votes on this budget deal," said Assemblyman Chuck DeVore, R-Irvine.
The budget deal to close a $26.3 billion deficit needs some Republican support because a two-thirds majority is required in both houses of the Legislature for a spending plan to pass.
Assemblyman Anthony Adams, R-Hesperia (San Bernardino County), who was one of three Assembly Republicans who supported the budget that passed in February that included tax increases, said: "I won't vote for any part of a budget package if there is any inclusion of any early release of prisoners."
Assembly Speaker Karen Bass, D-Baldwin Vista (Los Angeles County), said she is still hopeful the tentative deal can be passed.
She said she told Blakeslee late Tuesday afternoon that they can vote to cut $1.2 billion from state prisons - and that how they achieve the cuts can be debated in coming weeks.
But in days leading up to Monday's tentative deal, Blakeslee had been adamant about avoiding "unallocated cuts" in any budget deal, wanting any reductions to be specifically spelled out.
On Tuesday, he warned: "If a majority vote bill is moving forward to release prisoners early ... there will be no votes on the larger budget until this issue is resolved."
Senate Republican leader Dennis Hollingsworth of Murrieta (Riverside County) was more measured in his response than Republicans in the Assembly.
"It's not part of the budget," he said. "The agreement is that we would have that policy fight on how to implement (prison) cuts sometime in August."
"We have our own proposal, achieving those reductions without early release, and we think we'll win," he said.
But Cate said state prisons lose $3 million to $4 million in savings each day if there is any delay.
Cate said the prison population would be reduced largely by overhauling the state's parole system as well as raising the dollar threshold for grand theft, which hadn't been changed since 1982.
Key points in the tentative deal
Here's a closer look at some elements of the tentative agreement on how to close a $26.3 billion deficit that legislators are scheduled to vote on Thursday.
|Tentative compromise
|Oil tax
|Drops Democrats' proposal to raise $830 million in new revenue by taxing oil refineries.
|Tobacco tax
|Drops Democrats' proposal to raise $1 billion in new revenue by increasing taxes on cigarettes and other tobacco products by $1.50 per pack.
|Corporate tax credit
|Drops Democrats' proposal to raise $80 million by repealing a tax credit passed in September.
|License suspension
|Drops Democrats' proposal to raise revenue collection by $10 million by suspending state occupational and professional licenses of tax delinquents.
|K-12 education
|Adopts Democrats' proposal to cut $4.5 billion from schools. Rejects governor's plan to cut $5.5 billion.
|Length of K-12 school year
|Adopts Democrats' proposal to allow districts to cut the school year by five days. Rejects the governor's 71/2-day plan.
|California High School Exit Exam
|Drops Democrats' proposal to suspend the graduation requirement to save $8 million. But some special education students would be allowed to graduate regardless of test scores.
|Community Colleges
|Adopts governor's proposal to cut $724 million
|California State University
|Adopts Democrats' proposal to cut $984 million. Rejects governor's plan to cut $1 billion.
|University of California
|Adopts Democrats' proposal to cut $984 million. Rejects governor's plan to cut $966 million.
|Cal Grants
|Drops governor's proposal to eliminate new awards to save $173 million through June 2010.
|State parks
Keeps most of the parks open by shifting $62 million from special funds to pay for them. That's $8 million short of fully funding parks.Rejects governor's plan to save $213 million over two years by closing 80 percent of state parks and laying off workers. Also rejects Democrats' plan to raise vehicle license fees by $15 to pay for parks.
|State government
|Adopts the governor's proposal to eliminate the Integrated Waste Management Board. Combines waste board's functions with the Department of Conservation to create a new department under the state Resources Agency. Assumes the partial sale of the State Compensation Insurance Fund to raise $1 billion.
|State worker pay
|Drops governor's proposal to cut pay of most state employees by 5 percent to save $470 million.
|State worker furloughs
|Counts $1.3 billion in savings from the governor's order to force workers to take three unpaid furlough days a month through June 2010.
|Cuts the welfare-to-work program to save $528 million. Rejects governor's plan to eliminate the entire program to save $1.3 billion. Also rejects Democrats' plan to cut $270 million.
|In-Home Supportive Services
|Adopts Democrats' proposal to cut services to elderly and/or disabled recipients to save $53 million. Assumes $90 million in savings from increased fraud detection. Rejects governor's plan to save $231 million by eliminating services to 90 percent of recipients.
|California Food Assistance Program
|Drops governor's proposal to eliminate food-stamp program to save $34 million.
|Substance Abuse and Crime Prevention Act
|Adopts Democrats' proposal to reduce funding by about $90 million for Prop. 36, passed in 2000 to send nonserious drug offenders to treatment rather than jail. Rejects governor's planned cuts of $108 million.
|Healthy Families
|Adopts Democrats' proposal to create a waiting list for enrollment to the low-cost health insurance plan for children to save about $120 million. Rejects governor's plan to eliminate the entire program to save $248 million.
|Medi-Cal for recent legal immigrants
|Drops governor's proposal to limit benefits to emergency services to save $126 million.
|Adult Day Health Care Program
|Adopts Democrats' proposal to reduce services to save $27 million. Rejects governor's plan to eliminate all services to save $171 million.
|AIDS/HIV programs
|Adopts Democrats' proposal to cut $33.5 million. Rejects governor's plan to cut all state funding to save $56 million.
|California Poison Control System
|Adopts Democrats' proposal to cut funding by 50 percent. Rejects governor's plan to shut down the poison control emergency line to save $5.9 million.
|Offshore oil drilling
|Adopts governor's proposal to assume $100 million a year in new revenue from the sale of leases to allow drilling off the Santa Barbara County coast.
|Adopts governor's proposal to reduce spending by about $1.2 billion.


text:
- January 13, 1961 - March 26, 2015
- Louisville, Ohio
of Leonard's Passing
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Leonard was born on January 13, 1961 and passed away on Thursday, March 26, 2015.
Leonard was a resident of Louisville, Ohio at the time of passing.
Leonard was married to Robin.
funeral will be 11am Monday at Schmid Funeral Home in Mt. Washington with burial in Highland Memory Gardens. Visitation will be Sunday 3-8 pm and after 9am on Monday.


text:
1x1: Pilot
A double homicide might be Red John's crime, but Patrick Jane, a CBI consultant, believes it is not more than a vulgar imitation
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|Bradley Hockman. Photo via Bleacher Report.
Georgia isn't just building what it another top ten recruiting class for 2016. It just received the first commitment for its 2017 recruiting class from Power Springs, Ga. rising junior quarterback Bradley Hockman.
Hockman is graded as a four-star pro-style QB by the 247Sports composite. He's currently ranked by the recruiting service at no. 2 among 2017 pro-style QB's, at no. 3 among 2017 prospects in Georgia, and at no. 43 among all 2017 prospects.
Hockman attends McEachern High School in Power Springs, Ga. He stands 6'2, and weighs 210 lbs.
(via Dawg Sports)


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ST. PAUL, Minn. – Senior forward Alexander Kerfoot has been selected as one of the 10 finalists for the Hobey Baker Award, as announced by the award's committee Wednesday, March 15.
Kerfoot, who is a finalist for the ECAC Hockey Player of Year Award, is leading the Crimson in points with a career-high 40. A first team All-Ivy selection and a finalist for the Senior CLASS Award, Kerfoot has led by example on and off the ice this season.
The West Vancouver, British Columbia native and New Jersey Devils prospect is among the nation's leaders in points per game, averaging 1.29 each time out. During conference play, Kerfoot recorded 26 points (10g, 16a), ranking fourth. A co-captain this season, Kerfoot has been clutch for the Crimson, scoring four game-winning goals, most on a team that has won 24 games, its highest total since 1993-94.
Kerfoot enters the final weekend of the ECAC playoffs with 118 points and 82 assists. His 82 helpers ranks him 12th all-time in Harvard history.
The Hobey Hat Trick will be announced on March 30 and the winner will be announced April 7 in Chicago during Frozen Four festivities.


text: Features May 2015 Issue Spring Patterns Though pilots see a lot of weather maps, the playbook of what all these spring patterns mean and where they're going is not often explained. So, we'll explain it. By Tim Vasquez Aviation weather columns typically talk about hazards in terms of elements: "Watch the 0 to -20 degrees C layer for icing." "Be cautious of wet, clear nights because of fog," etc. We can always learn more from a change in perspective, and we can do so using surface charts from the Aviation Weather Center website. Using these charts we can get a better understanding of why weather hazards occur rather than how they develop. Let's take a look at the sample chart below and break down all the patterns that are going on. To continue reading this article you must be a paid subscriber. Subscribe to IFR Magazine Get the next year of IFR Magazine for just $19.97. Get access to all articles published online. Features, reviews, lesson, quizzes - get it all. That's a savings of more than $14 off the regular rate. Or double your savings and subscribe for 14 issues for just $39.94. Subscribe Get IFR Digital Get 12 months of IFR DIGITAL for just $34. You get unlimited access to everything on the site including each monthly issue as a PDF. Subscribe Subscriber Log In E-Mail Address: Password: Login Forgot your password? Click Here. Already subscribe but haven't registered for all the benefits of the website? Click here.


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I was pleased to read that some parents addressed the Board of Education this week with regard to the online AP?classes currently in place at Jefferson High. Sadly, no comments were made by board members, but we can hope that they heard the message.
These classes were scheduled, unknown to parents, because the school had no teachers to teach in classroom. The online "teachers" lack the ability to teach our students adequately.
While these "online" classes may prepare them for online classes in college, they are doing nothing to help these students pass the AP exams now. Without personal instruction, the students simply are not learning.
Let them be high school kids while they can. The pressure is bad enough without making these classes basically useless. My child has informed me she won't take the AP exam because she hasn't learned the material. How many others feel the same?
Let's go back to real, live teachers!


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Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist South Carolina License (# 1136)
Licensed Marriage & Family Therapy Supervisor South Carolina License (#2648, lapsed)
Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor, South Carolina License (#2611, lapsed)
M.A. Covenant Seminary, St. Louis, Missouri (Religion and Counseling) 1979
B.A. College of Charleston, Charleston, S.C. (Biology) 1976.
Advanced training in the Gottman Method (Level III)
According to Myers Briggs I am an INFP. The INFP is less than 1% of the population. My wife, Marsha, says I am unique in that I have such a wide range of interests and abilities. I view myself as perceptive, persevering, compassionate, curious, creative, patient with frustrating situations, friendly, playful and get along with nearly everyone.
I attribute my success in life to those qualities.
Marsha is my 7th grade sweetheart! We have so many similar personality traits and interests. She's an ENFP. Now that we're empty nesters, we enjoy cooking together. The deal is I cook, she cleans up and we both like it that way. We do a lot together, like going out to eat, movies and plays, local festivals, live music, and sporting events.
She loves watching football even more than me! We like ordinary things like reading books, walking or beach-combing with Sophie (our dog), or bike riding. We also like traveling to see family, cruising and seeing new places. Being active together is what makes our life so grand. And... we love each other a whole lot!
I believe a healthy life is about a balance between love, work and play.
My Dad taught me to work, be responsible, treat people the way you want to be treated, and always do the right thing.
My Mom taught me to love and play. I got my love of life, cooking, people, music, art, dance and writing from her.
My parents believed in me. They saw my potential. They instilled in me I could do whatever I set my mind to. If I work hard, treat people right and do the right thing I would be successful.
Marriage and family are the building blocks of our society. The impact of divorce and broken homes is devastating to all. Having personally experienced the impact of divorce, my life mission is to not only help marriages survive but to thrive. I'm in full-time private practice as an LMFT specializing in couples therapy, intensive retreats and psychoeducation workshops using the Couple Communication Program.
My clients run the gamete in age, circumstances and socioeconomic background. I like working with couples who feel hopeless and think they have tried everything. My job is to provide hope and help them learn the skills that will help them have the relationship they both want. They sense I am confident, knowledgeable and experienced and that I can help them. I am delighted when I see progress, growth and sincere hope in a relationship as a result of our time together.
My idea of being a hero is to live fully, love wastefully and be all I can be. That is my life strategy.
I've been working since age 13. I learned to work and be responsible by showing up and doing the best job I could do at whatever it was. I started with selling Christmas cards, Fuller Brush and Amway door to door in my neighborhood. My first real job was in a tropical fish shop. Summers I worked at a boat shop and lumberyard. In college I worked in a men's clothing store and drove a delivery truck.
I can relate to most anyone as a result of those experiences.
In grad school, I was a graduate assistant and contributed to the writing of my professor's book. Since graduating, I worked with the alcohol and drug abuse commission before going into private practice.
My high school biology teacher, Mr. Mills, took me under his wing, took me camping on Edisto Island and brought me to see the College of Charleston when I was a teenager. Although I grew up in South Carolina I had never been to Charleston and I fell in love with it. He nurtured my interest in Marine Science and encouraged me to attend the College of Charleston because they had a Marine Biology degree. I probably would not have gone to college if it had not been for him. I figured if he thought I could do it. I could, and I did.
This would require a book, but I'll try to be brief.
My Mom taught me to play golf at an early age and gave me art lessons because she saw my ability. I grew up hunting and fishing with my Dad and continued this with my son. I loved summers at the beach fishing, skiing, swimming and beach combing. I enjoy boating, kayaking, and scuba diving. I love bird watching, gardening and growing my own vegetables. I became a certified beekeeper to help my garden and to satisfy my love of honey.
My creativity finds expression in wildlife photography using camera and drone. Capturing a special moment or a thing of beauty is exciting, especially in nature. I love being outdoors and photographing wildlife, especially birds give me pleasure.
Last but far from least I love to cook because I enjoy experimenting with herbs and spices, different cuisines and cooking methods. Nowadays Kamado grill cooking on wood coals has become my creative passions. The creative process of cooking can be so simple and yet so complex. Discovering new tastes and flavors is a satisfying experience for me. I love to watch the cooking channels, especially Vivian Howard's PBS show, "A Chef's Life", and Guy Fieri's, "Diners, Drive Ins and Dives". The endless variety of dishes is mind boggling and really gets my juices flowing.
Managing my own perfectionistic expectations with them is challenging, however. Both cooking and photography require knowledge, skill and a desire for perfection. It really bugs me when what I cook or the picture I take are not as good as I know they could be. I have learned from David Burns, MD "the healthy pursuit of excellence" vs perfection is the antidote.
I love cooking on my Kamado Joe grill so much I wake up thinking about what I'm going to cook next.
Weird right?
When I have golf dreams, I find they reflect how I'm doing. Am I in the fairway or the woods? Usually very accurate.
Daniel Island is a planned community developed in 1997. The Family Circle Tennis Open is held in the Volvo Stadium which is in the middle of town and attracts visitors from all over the world. It looks like a resort town but it's really people living their everyday lives. Everything is new and well landscaped. The population is very diverse moving here from all over the country, which is quite different than Charlestonians who have lived there for generations steeped in history and tradition. Charleston is so old and Daniel Island is so new. I get the best of both worlds, just minutes from historic Charleston, the area beaches, surrounded by two rivers and Charleston Harbor.
I am a member of Rotary International on Daniel Island. Our nationally recognized fundraiser is the annual Duck Race. Funds raised go to several charities including disaster relief in Puerto Rico through Water Missions International.
My office is in Mount Pleasant just minutes from the beach and the city of Charleston. There is never any shortage of things to do and places to go year around. My office building looks more like a cottage than an office building. It offers a warm, cozy homelike atmosphere.
One of the first things couples see in my office is a 60" screen TV, which is a perfect lead in to say: "No I don't watch games shows, soaps, Oprah and reality shows. This is the monitor I use for the Couples Communication program and ThriveSphere."
Would love to work with you at my Mt Pleasant office in South Carolina.
Clinical Member of American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy
Alcohol and Drug Intervention, Counseling and Referral-South Carolina Commision on Alcohol and Drug Abuse.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing- EMDR Level II -Francine Shapiro, Ph.D. Over 15 years of treatment experience for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy-David Burns, MD-treatment for anxiety, depressive and addictive disorders.
Approach blends Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Bowenian family systems and Psychodynamic theory and diagnosis.
Interpersonal Communication Programs, Inc.-Certified Instructor and Trainer


text:
Functions for validate Search
Dear JCCsmart member,
You can now register your preferred cards in order to be able to easily select them for your future transactions through JCCsmart. Taking this opportunity JCC introduces a competition between all JCCsmart users that have already registered and activated their cards, or will do so during the campaign. Each registered and activated card is a single participation in the draws.
The card registration and activation campaign is effective during the months August 2013 - January 2014. Each month one lucky user will be the winner of one iPad mini. The registration of cards can be done from your account by clicking on the link "My Registered Cards".
Each winner shall be notified directly through their registered email address and also announced on JCCsmart.com at the beginning of each month. More information regarding the terms and conditions of the competition can be found at JCCsmart web site.
For any queries related to the draws, please contact JCC at Customer Service Department 22 868000.www.jccsmart.com
Sincerely, The JCCsmart team


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Crystal Pendant Light from Kichler
The Crystal Skye collection features triangular crystal prisms that rest inside Chrome details and stand ready to reflect light in a hundred different ways. Rounded crystals on the bottom reflect the inner light.
Height: 12.7 cm
Height: 12.7 cm
Width: 19.1 cm
Width: 52.7 cm
Depth: 65.4 cm
Materials and Finish : ● Chrome ● Chrome
Lamp: 8 x 50W G9
Lamp: 8 x 50W G9
Cleveland, Ohio based and founded in 1938 , L D Kichler & Co are a family run company held in high regard by their customers for the diversity of design and breadth of range, which includes some truly striking and often substantial pieces.
This collection is originally designed and wired for the American market. All fittings on this website meet Australian electrical standards and are either prewired at the manufacturers factory or within LightCo's rewiring facility in Australia.


text: There's plenty of good stuff to be had if you decide to pick up Spider-Man: Web of Shadows. You have some cover art chosen by fans, a very pretty Cylon lady doing the voice work for the Black Cat and all that's left is to wait until October 21st to get your hands on spidey's new adventure. Until then, we got a new launch trailer you guys can take a look at which kind of reminds us of the old Gears of War Mad World trailer.


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Rewards FAQs
- How do I participate in KeyBank Rewards®?
Apply for a Key2More Rewards Mastercard or a KeyBank Business Rewards Mastercard to earn points on your credit card transactions.
- How can I check my point balance?
- Personal banking clients can sign on to Online Banking to view rewards points, or call 1-800-KEY2YOU® (1-800-539-2968).
- Business banking clients can log in to KeyBank Business Online®. You can also call us at 1-888-KEY4BIZ® (888-539-4249).
- If using the KeyBank mobile app, simply select rewards points to view the balance on your statement.
- Credit Card statements also display rewards point totals.
Earning Points
- How can I earn Points?
See the complete Rewards Point Guide (PDF) for all of the ways to earn points. Bonus Points are additional points that can be awarded on an ongoing basis for qualifying transactions on certain cards. Not all credit cards are eligible for Bonus Points.
- Do I need to have a checking account at KeyBank to earn credit card points?
No, you do not need a KeyBank checking account to earn points for credit card purchases.
Redeeming Rewards
- How can I redeem my points?
Sign on to Online Banking or the mobile app and click Rewards.
- How can I book travel with my rewards points?
Sign on to Online Banking or the mobile app, to access the rewards redemption site. Here, you will be able to search and book your own air, hotel, car rental and trip activities online. You can pay with your points, or a combination of points and your credit or debit card. Travel booking fees may apply.
- Do my KeyBank Rewards points expire?
Yes, your KeyBank Rewards points expire 48 months after they are issued. Points earned with a KeyBank Private Bank Mastercard do not expire.
- Is there a fee for the program?
No, there is no annual fee to open your Key2More Rewards Mastercard or KeyBank Business Rewards Mastercard.


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Tuesday, March 31, 2015
Eagle Optics Wild Turkey Binocular introduces New BIRP Technology
The new BIRP Technology - Bird Image Recognition and Playback allows you to plug your headphones into your binocular to identify what you are focused on in the field. https://youtu.be/a53w35--K8k
1 comment:
Most creative add I've seen in a long time. I added or now SHARED your video in a few of my RV, Backyard Hobby Facebook groups as I am sure others will smile as I did of the float away Bird naming Binocular's.
- April 3, 2015 at 9:41 AM
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Add vehicles to compare. You can compare up to 3 vehicles at a time.
Pricing includes incentives for which everyone qualifies. Guests may also qualify for additional, conditional incentives not included in the displayed price. Therefore, upfront price could be less than advertised price. While every reasonable effort is made to ensure the accuracy of this information, we are not responsible for any errors or omissions contained on websites. Please verify any information in question with Bergstrom Automotive.Prices do not include tax, title, registration, service fees or any emissions testing fees. All prices, specifications and availability subject to change without notice. Tax, title, license (unless itemized above) are extra. Not available with special finance, lease and some other offers.
Ready to get into the car of your dreams? We, at our dealership, are more than happy to get you closer to your dreams by offering a test drive in the super-fine super car, the new Chevrolet Corvette, available at our Madison, WI dealership. Give us an opportunity to take you through our inventory and tell you about its features and specifications. We have a large inventory of the new Chevrolet Corvette, at our Madison, WI dealership. We are sure you'll fall in love with its sophisticated interior and sleek exterior. Check out the easy financing options available on the new Chevrolet Corvette at our Madison, WI dealership. Don't waste time and visit us today!
Find Your New or Used Car, Truck or SUV at Bergstrom Chevrolet of Madison
Get Your UpFront Price On Our Entire Inventory in Madison, WI
Bergstrom Chevrolet of Madison offers a great selection of new 2019 Chevrolet Corvette vehicles for sale in Madison, WI. Our new vehicle inventory is one of the largest in the state of Wisconsin. If you're shopping from Sun Prairie or Janesville we encourage you to shop our entire inventory of new Chevrolet vehicles and visit us for a test drive when you've found a model that suits you. Sort by color, trim, features, price and more by choosing from the filters above to find the perfect vehicle that has everything you need. You can also apply for financing directly from our website, and don't hesitate to call us at (877) 314-9467 or contact us online with any questions you have.


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Il n'y pas encore d'avis.
75,00 €–94,00 €
With experience, the Christian Morel's House has consistently convey the originality through his compositions.
She pays particular attention to developing a uniqueness in each of her creations.
In a desire to transcend the flower's codes, while emphasizing on the excellence of the Christian Morel shop, we imagined the « Vegetal Dressing ».
Each creation is made to measure, by hand, and exclusively with natural products.
The pieces are composed with living plants, which feed exclusively on the ambient humidity, and can live up to 7 years on the creations.
Elegance is a must in this range of hats. Make sensations under all circumstances.
Iceland moss, Bark, Branch, Slate.
Il n'y pas encore d'avis.


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Crafting the farm's bounty into wall artHolly Froemke of Lisbon, N.D., weaves wheat into art, grown on the family farm. She uses black bearded wheat, which is traditionally made into pasta, or winter wheat, which is made into bread flour, to make wall designs that incorporate feathers and other dried plants from the farm. Froemke had a booth at last weekends craft fair in Park Rapids. She said she typically sells three-quarters of the inventory she brings to each show. She learned the craft from a book and has been making wheat pieces for decades. In Scandinavian countries, she said, the art is called corn dolly making. She does make a few dolls, but most of her works are wreaths, windmills and other farm designs.
By: Sarah Smith, Park Rapids Enterprise
Tags: down to earth, news, ses, hobbies


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All details for the 2020 program - including faculty, special events, and scholarship
opportunities - are forthcoming in Spring.
Meanwhile, please e-mail us at swp[at]naropa[dot]edu with any questions you might have. See you soon!
The Summer Writing Program is a three-week-long convocation of students, poets, fiction writers, scholars, translators, performance artists, activists, Buddhist teachers, musicians, printers, editors, and others working in small press publishing. Programming includes workshops, lectures, panels, readings, special events, and more.
In dialogue with renowned practitioners, students engage in the composition of poetry, prose fiction, cross-genre possibilities, inter-arts, translation, and writing for performance. Participants work in daily contact with some of the most accomplished and notoriously provocative writers of our time, meeting individually and in small groups, so that both beginning and experienced writers find equal challenge in the program.
All three weeks (or any combination of weeks) are open to any interested participant for noncredit. Students from other institutions or degree programs may also elect to attend for undergraduate or graduate credit, including high school students with a mature writing practice.
Artistic Director and Curator: Anne Waldman
SWP Director: Jeffrey Pethybridge
SWP Coordinator: Swanee Astrid
For more information or questions regarding program curriculum, please contact SWP[at]naropa[dot]edu.
Naropa University welcomes participants with disabilities. Please contact SWP[at]naropa[dot]edu to inquire about accessibility and disability accommodations needed to participate fully in this event before April 15, 2019.


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Katherine & Josephine was started by two sisters, Julie and Carly, that came together to create a fresh take on fine jewelry. The sisters are nineteen months apart and have always been incredibly close, both bringing unique strengths and expertise to the business. Katherine & Josephine was named after Carly and Julie's Grandmothers, who have always been an inspiration for the girls to follow their dreams.
Their line features wearable fine jewelry that easily transitions from day to night, while pulling design elements from the past, but keeping one foot firmly planted in today's world. The line began with bracelets, Julie's favorite item of jewelry, and one that allows for ample stacking. Julie and Carly created a collection of satin bracelets with precious metal and stone elements. With the beauty and elegance of satin mixed with the shine and brilliance of diamond buckles and slides, the collection quickly came to life. The collection also includes cuff bracelets, earrings, necklaces and rings available in yellow gold, rose gold, white gold and sterling silver.
The satin bracelets, buckles and slides are sold separately allowing you to choose exactly which elements you want to pair together. You can also purchase a strap with a tarnish resistant sterling silver buckle if you are looking for your slide to be the focal point of your bracelet.


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Monday, April 23, 2012
Some of Pittsburgh's up-and-coming hip-hop acts are taking to New York City all at once this week. Here's a quick breakdown:
April 24 - The mayhem begins Tuesday when Chevy Woods and Boaz link up for "A Pittsburgh Affair". Taylor Gang recording artist and Wiz Khalifa's partner-in-rhyme, Woods headlines the event at S.O.B.'s. In recent years, that venue's stage has hosted performances by Drake, Kanye West and Rick Ross. On this night, S.O.B.'s showcases two Pittsburgh rap vets. Woods' music video, "Home Run", has been viewed over 200,000 times as he prepares the release of his new mixtape, Gangland. Joining Woods for the showcase event is Larimer native Boaz. Woods and Boaz are familiar with working together, as Woods was a heavily featured rapper on Boaz and his Govament crew's 2007 mixtape release, Election Day.
April 24 - Rhyme Calisthenics: The Official MC Competition hosts the fourth show of its NYC Series at Bamboo. The series of five shows began in January as four first-time competitors performed several rap challenges from the large, game show-style wheel, with the hopes of winning and advancing. Tuesday night's final qualifier round will decide the fourth MC to compete in the subsequent championship round. This month's competing MCs are Baxter Wordsworth, Atlas', Skittlez, and Jess Jaymez. The competition makes its anticipated return to Pittsburgh in early summer.
April 25 - Halfway through the Macadelic Tour promoting his newest mixtape, Mac Miller returns to Roseland Ballroom on Wednesday. A year ago, Miller was an opening performer at Wiz Khalifa's Rolling Papers album release party. Opening for Miller on the Macadelic Tour is rap duo The Come Up. Fellow Pittsburghers, Franchise and Vinny Radio have been performing with Miller for the majority of his most recent tours and are preparing for the release of their new album April 30.
April 26 - Rapper Beedie's Above the Weather Tour began in Pittsburgh on April 14 and continued last week in Philly. This Thursday Beedie takes Manhattan by storm with a performance at the Grisly Pear. The intimate venue should allow the charismatic MC to do what he does best: connect with his audience. Other upcoming tour stops include Erie, Detroit, and a return to Pittsburgh's Altar Bar with Action Bronson.
Tags: Chevy Woods , Boaz , Mac Miller , The Come Up , Rhyme Calisthenics , Beedie , hip hop , FFW>> , Image


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Solomon - 1 Kings 11:1-10
This is a family service talk by Malcolm Peters from the Riverside Church service on 6th May 2007.
Click here to read the bible passage. Click here to use smaller text.
Activity/ Puppet Sketch
if youĺd like to take a seat.
[looking at Daisy] Youĺre looking a bit sad, whatĺs the matter?
Daisy: So would you be!
Me: So would I be if what?
Daisy: Had them taken off you.
Me: Had what taken off you?
Daisy: My new heelies!
Me: Your new what?
Daisy: My new heelies.
You know, those trainer things with wheels on
the heels. Thatĺs why
theyĺre called heelies.
Me: Right!
Daisy: Canĺt believe youĺve not heard of them. Youĺre so out of it!
Me: Thanks!
Daisy: [getting excited] Theyĺre so cool. Iĺd been asking mum and dad for a pair for months.
Me: But let me guess, they said wait until your birthday or something.
Daisy: How did you know? [mini-pause] But then I found a website doing a special deal.
Me: Donĺt tell me: www.heelies R us .co.uk
Daisy: .com actually. And so dad agreed to get them for me when Iĺd got onto stage 6 with my reading books at school.
Me: Sounds great.
Daisy: [back to being sad] It was.
Me: So what happened? Did someone nick them?
Daisy: Well sort of.
Oh thatĺs really bad isnĺt it boys and girls. [Daisy
down] Letĺs have a big
Ahhhhhh for Daisy!
So did you get them back?
Daisy: Not
Me: So you know whoĺs got them then?
Daisy: Yep.
Me: Good ľ so you can go and get them back then.
Daisy: Not yet?
Me: What do you mean not yet? I thought they were so cool.
Daisy: they are. [pause] Well it wasnĺt my fault.
Me: What wasnĺt your fault?
Daisy: Dad taking them off me.
Me: Your dadĺs got them.
Daisy: Yep.
Me: You mean heĺs confiscated them?
Daisy: Yep.
Me: As a punishment for something youĺd done?
Daisy: Well it wasnĺt my idea!
Me: What wasnĺt your idea?
Daisy: having a heelie race.
Me: Sounds like great fun. Whatĺs wrong with that?
Daisy: Well my friend Hannahů.
Me: Your friend Hannahů
Daisy: Well Hannah said why donĺt we have a heelie race across Beverley Road and back.
Me: No way!
Daisy: Well I did win!
Me: Thatĺs not the point. You could have been killed. [Pause] Was Hannah alright?
Daisy: Well she had a strop because Iĺd won.
Me: No I mean was she hurt?
Daisy: Oh no! [mini pause] Well until she got home, and then her mum started shouting at her, so she probably had a bit of an ear ache.
Me: Daisy, donĺt you understand what youĺve done?
Daisy: I do now, because we had one of those chats when dad got home.
Me: One of those chats????
Daisy: Yeah, you know, one of those chats where dad sits me down and reminds me about the rules.
Me: Rules like the Green Cross Code.
Daisy: Thatĺs the one. Rules like never cross a main road without an adult.
Me: And did he explain why we have those kinds of rules?
Daisy: Yes. The rules are there to keep me safe.
Me: Thatĺs right. Mums and dads arenĺt meanies. They provide for us, they sometimes give us treats like heelies; and they make up rules to keep us safe and healthy.
Daisy: [sadly] I know.
Me: And what happens if you break the rules?
Daisy: We get punished.
Me: By having treats taken away; treats like your heelies.
Daisy: [v sad] Yeah.
Me: So your dadĺs punishment, taking away your heelies, itĺs actually kind isnĺt it.
Daisy: What do you mean?
Me: Well are you going to have another heelie race across Beverly Road.
Daisy: No.
Me: Exactly; being punished when we break the rules makes us take the rules more seriously doesnĺt it?
Daisy: I suppose so yes.
Me: So your dad was really being kind to you. By punishing your disobedience, he was making you realise just how bad youĺd been when you broke the rules.
Daisy: I suppose so, yes.
Talk integrated with continuing Puppet Sketch
Me: And thatĺs sort of whatĺs going on in this monthĺs Bible story.
Daisy: the story of Solomon.
Me: thatĺs right. Last time we saw how good King David had ruled over God's people in God's special land. And just like Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden, God had given his people some rules for living in his special land.
Daisy: Just like my dadĺs rules you mean.
Me: Well sort of yes. Your dadĺs rules are to keep you safe and happy. And itĺs the same with God. Godĺs rules are for the benefit of His people. In fact there were ten main rules for Godĺs people. 10 rules sometimes called the 10 commandments. I wonder of anyone can remember any of them?
Daisy: [with hand up] I know, me, me, me.
Me: Well I think youĺve done quite a bit of the talking this morning. Can anyone else remember any of the 10 commandments? [engage]
NB Me again!!!! Thatĺs right the 10 commandments and they included rules like ôDonĺt tell lies to each other.ö And ôDonĺt kill each other.ö But the first rule was the most important. The first rule was very simple. And it said: YOU SHALL HAVE NO OTHER GODS BEFORE ME.
Daisy: So whatĺs that mean then?
Me: well thatĺs a good question. Who can tell me what that might mean? [Engage]
Abrahamĺs family, the nation of Israel, they were Godĺs people. The God of the Bible that is. But the other nations around them had other gods. Gods which the Bible calls idols. Gods made out of wood or stone or precious metals like gold. And these other people prayed to gods theyĺd made out of wood, stone and precious metals. Made-up gods which werenĺt really gods at all.
Daisy: Praying to a block of wood. Thatĺs a bit silly.
Me: well exactly. But itĺs also very serious. Because the God of the Bibleĺs very jealous; very jealous about his people.
Daisy: I thought jealousy was bad?
Me: Well it can be. But remember your friend Hannah.
Daisy: Yeah.
Me: Well remember a couple of months ago, you told us about when Hannah had invited you round for tea.
Daisy: And to watch Tracy Beaker.
Me: thatĺs right. But then she said that only Chloe was going round now, because Chloe was her new best friend.
Daisy: How could I forget.
Me: And so in that case, it was right to be a bit jealous of Chloe. Because Hannah broke her promise. Sheĺd broken her promise to you, and invited Chloe round instead.
And itĺs the same with God. God really loves His people; and so Heĺs jealous if they run after other gods, even if those other gods arenĺt real. Even though those other false gods hadn't made the world. And according to the story of the Bible, following the wrong god was a terribly big mistake. In fact, itĺs the worst mistake Godĺs people could make. So God warned them with his very first rule. DON'T HAVE ANY OTHER GODS.
Daisy: no other gods. Iĺve got it.
Me: Good. And weĺve already seem that King David was a good king. He made some mistakes, but in the end he always said sorry to God, and turned back to doing things God's way. But then King David got old and died. And his son SOLOMON became king instead.
Daisy: We know a
song about that
donĺt we? [in singing voice]
Davidĺs son was Solomon.
Me: We do. And when he became King, Solomon asked God to give him wisdom [Solomon praying picture on screen]. And God said yes: Iĺll make you wise. And just as God had promised, Solomon built a home to call Godĺs own [Solomonĺs temple on screen]. He built Godĺs temple. [picture of Solomon praising God]
NB Still me: And to begin with, Solomon praised and worshiped the One true God. The God of the Bible. And because he was wise, his kingdom did well. His palace was full of gold and jewels. He had a great big throne made of ivory and gold. Solomon was wise and powerful. [picture of Solomon on throne giving advice] So wise and powerful that people used to come to him for advice. Can anyone think of a queen that came to visit Solomon? [EngageŚSheba]
Daisy: Thatĺs amazing.
Me: It was. But Solomon began to make a very big mistake. Can anyone remember what it was from our reading?
Daisy: Sorry, think I must have missed that bit.
Me: who can remember from the reading how many wives Solomon had? [engage]
Thatĺs right, instead of just having ONE WIFE, Solomon decided to have lots of wives which God said was a no no. But the biggest mistake was that his wives didn't worship the One true God; the God of the Bible that is. They worshipped made up gods insteadŚ they prayed to statues made of wood and stone and precious metals.
Daisy: Silly billies!
Me: Exactly, but what was worse is that Solomon didnĺt stop them. And even worse than that, he eventually he joined in with them.
Daisy: No way! You mean he deliberately disobeyed Godĺs rule about no other Gods?
Me: He did. And so Solomon started offering sacrifices to the statues instead of God. [Solomon bowing to Dagon statue picture on screen] He even built special altars and buildings so other people could join in too. King Solomon had made a terrible mistake. He was breaking that first and most important rule God had given His people.
Daisy: You shall have no other God before me.
Me: And thatĺs what weĺve got in this monthĺs banner. [Solomon banner on screen]
Here weĺve got Solomon worshipping his wooden idol; heĺs saying no thanks to God. I want to be the boss of my own life thank you very much. And thatĺs why thereĺs a cross through Godĺs crown in the picture.
Daisy: So was God a bit cross then, like my dad?
Me: Not just a bit. God was very, very angry. Solomon was doing exactly what God had said not to do, just like Adam and Eve did in the garden. Who can remember what happened to Adam and Eve when disobeyed God. [EngageŚ They were sent out of Godĺs special place: the garden]
And itĺs the same with Solomon. Listen to these words at the end of that passage we had read to us earlier:
ôSolomon did not keep the Lord's command. So the LORD said to Solomon, "Since this is your attitude and you have not kept my covenant and my decrees, which I commanded you, I will most certainly tear the kingdom away from you and give it to one of your subordinates.ö
Daisy: Soĺs that what happened then?
Me: Well God always keeps his promises remember. His promises to bless and his promises to judge. Because of what Solomon did, God promised Solomon: ôbecause you wouldn't obey me, I'm going to take your Kingdom away." And thatĺs exactly what happened. Later in the story of the whole Bible, God took the kingdom away from Solomon and gave it to other kings.
Daisy: Thatĺs bad.
Me: no thatĺs good. Because punishment, remember, teaches us about how stupid it is to break Godĺs rules. Rules for our good, remember. So Godĺs punishment of Solomon was a good thing. But the kings that came after Solomon were even worse. And so things went from bad to worse. And youĺll have to come back next month on 3rd June if you want to find out more about all that; more about the next stage in the story of the whole Bible. A story that in the end leads to Jesus. To Jesus dieing on a cross to take away the punishment we all deserve. A story that leads to a much better gift than a pair of heelies; a story that leads to forgiveness in this life and heaven in the next.
And if you want to know more about that story, then do come back next month. But in the mean time, if you want to find out more, then pick up one of these blue leaflet from the book stall [meet the king picture on the screen] . Or sign up for the CE course starting on Thur. Or come back next week to our normal service with Sunday School. The King the Snake and the Promise. Genesis to Jesus for Kids. But a story with a very serious message for us adults as well.
Copyright information: The sermon texts are copyright and are available for personal use only. If you wish to use them in other ways, please contact us for permission.