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EVERY FRIDAY AFTERNOON in Moscow, Idaho, a strange commotion overruns Main Street. A stream of young men and women parade down the sidewalk, wearing black academic gowns that billow and flap as they walk. Some pore over Latin textbooks or thumb flashcards of ancient Greek vocabulary, nearly tripping at the curb. They are students at New St. Andrews College on their way to disputatio, a weekly assembly held in a movie theater downtown. The college itself has no room large enough to accommodate all 150 students at once: it occupies a single unassuming brick building a few blocks away, one that a stranger might mistake for the refurbished husk of an old savings and loan. Passers-by on their way to the Pita Pit or Hodgins Drug barely give the students a second glance. Not a few residents, however, have fought hard to keep them out of downtown. Founded in 1994 by the elders of a fast-growing and radically conservative church, New St. Andrews represents a new philosophy of evangelical education — one that has inspired a national movement and makes local liberals nervous.
The students and teachers call what they are doing "classical Christian education." They believe it's much more than memorizing Latin declensions and Aristotle's principles of rhetoric, though they do plenty of that. Doug Wilson, 54, the pastor who spearheaded New St. Andrews' founding, puts the college's purpose simply: "We are trying to save civilization." He's not alone in his mission. The C.C.E. movement began in the early 1980s among Protestant evangelical private schools and home-schoolers who scorned most conservative Christian colleges, which were long on classes in business management and Bible prophecy but short on history, literature and ideas. Now the movement boasts a host of home-schooling associations and curriculum companies, more than 200 private schools and college programs around the country. Evangelicals at New St. Andrews are using dead languages and ancient history to reinvent conservative Protestant education. As Matthew McCabe, an alumnus, puts it, "We want to be medieval Protestants."
When you ask teachers and students what sort of school New St. Andrews is, they often cite one school they are not: Patrick Henry College, the evangelical college in Purcellville, Va., with a reputation for training home-schooled Christian students to wrest the reins of power from "secular humanists" in Washington. "We believe in a much longer view," says Joshua Appel, a professor at New St. Andrews. The curriculum is modeled on the vision of "New England's First Fruits," a 1643 Massachusetts Bay Colony pamphlet describing the college lately founded in Cambridge. Besides required coursework in Latin and Greek, students at N.S.A. study natural philosophy (mostly taxonomy and creationist science), the Western literary canon, Euclidean geometry and theology; they also practice public speaking at a weekly declamation. Students drag themselves out of bed for classes that meet at 7:30 am, only half an hour later than classes once did at Puritan Harvard.
This curriculum is a "reformation in higher education," says Roy Atwood, the college president. "The last thing we wanted to be was a Liberty University or a Patrick Henry. We are not interested in political takeover." Patrick Henry — which requires classical core classes and offers a major in classical liberal arts as well as more political fields — hemorrhaged faculty and students a year ago as a debate over academic freedom and the role of the liberal arts in Christian education divided the campus. "I wonder if the N.S.A. people are right," says G. T. Smith, a philosophy professor who left Patrick Henry after the turmoil.
New St. Andrews is turning away from the Moral Majority's legacy of political involvement, but it has not turned its back on the culture war. The Latin motto on water bottles and Frisbees for sale in the college bookstore makes the point plain: Numquam Bella Piis, Numquam Certanima Desunt — "For the faithful, wars shall never cease."
IN CERTAIN WAYS, Moscow is an unlikely home for New St. Andrews. The town is "a little blue dot in an ocean of red," says Doug Wilson, who looks more like a lumberjack than a pastor, even when he wears a suit. The presence of the publicly financed University of Idaho has long made it a typical college town. On Main Street, multicolored fliers flutter in the doorway of the Golden Blue Lotus Tara Tibetan Buddhist Meditation Center.
A handful of people gather for regular antiwar demonstrations on Friendship Square, adjacent to New St. Andrews. The well-combed and collared students inside seem too busy reading Plato to pay attention.
In the student directory, a note on the first page explains the absence of street addresses of the homes where students board (the college opposes dorms on principle). "It seems there are people in the community who make a hobby of causing trouble for local Christian families who extend hospitality to N.S.A. students," reads the disclaimer. "So as a courtesy to these families, and as a hedge against whatever else the 'Intoleristas' have up their sleeve, we're making it a tad bit harder for them." "Intolerista" is Wilson's nickname for his liberal critics. Some have filed zoning complaints against N.S.A. host families for supposedly running illegal boarding houses. Rival coffee shops have sprung up. The Christians drink their lattes at Bucer's, which is outfitted like an English pub and is named after the Reformation theologian Martin Bucer. The Starbucks-like One World Cafe is the reputed liberal hangout. "There are a bunch of people who hate N.S.A.," says Laura Blakey, a 25-year-old alumna. "I think our Christianity offends them."
Doug Wilson proudly declares himself more right-wing than most Idaho conservatives. "They voted for Bush; I'd vote for Jefferson Davis," he chuckles. Over the past two decades, he has founded a successful classical Christian K-12 school, and his congregation, Christ Church, has expanded to about 1,000 members. "It's Wilson Inc.," says Rose Huskey, a longtime Moscow resident who met with me for two hours to detail Wilson's crimes and offer boxes of documentation she has filed away at home. Wilson's critics view him as a right-wing Pied Piper luring like-minded Christians to overrun the town: families from as far away as France have moved to Moscow to enroll their children in New St. Andrews or to join Christ Church.
New St. Andrews students are used to the challenge that their college is a narrow-minded place. Brad Littlejohn, 19, often argues with his grandfather, a Jewish agnostic. "My grandfather says, you're afraid of having your beliefs challenged," Brad says. "That's a psychological claim, and there's no way to refute that. I wanted a Christian-worldview education not because I felt that if I got a secular-worldview education it would weaken my faith, but it wouldn't nourish me in the same way." The students are bright. The average SAT score is a respectable 1,214 out of 1,600, nearly on par with schools like George Washington University (though about 110 points behind Patrick Henry's average). The 88 percent admission rate is deceptive, given the college's low public profile and self-selecting applicant pool: students at N.S.A. have thought carefully about why they are here.
Students' postcollege goals are fairly ordinary, ranging from academia and law to construction and choral conducting, but they approach graduation with a sense of mission sharpened by N.S.A.'s distinctive culture.
The school has adopted trappings of Oxford and Cambridge: professors are called "fellows," and students dress in academic gowns for thesis defenses and public final exams. Proudly Anglophile, faculty members lead a summer tour of English castles and abbeys. C. S. Lewis and G. K. Chesterton are ubiquitous on class reading lists — revered for their godly wit and their fondness for fine drink. N.S.A.'s campus is proudly wet, in deliberate contrast to the average fundamentalist Bible college.
The Oxbridge traditions; the college's nine-point Latin grading scale (from Summa Cum Laude down to a failing Minime); the nameplates (in honor of Augustine, Calvin and the Presbyterian theologian J. Gresham Machen) that take the place of room numbers outside its three modest classrooms; these constantly remind students that they attend a Christian college with class. Donna Foucachon, an American who moved to Idaho from Lyon, France, with her French husband after their sons chose to attend New St. Andrews, said that the N.S.A. education impressed her French brother-in-law, who "is an extremely cultured, educated man who worked in government and ate with the shah. He's not of the same [religious] persuasion as us, but he looks at what they're studying, and he says, This is true education." N.S.A. aims to turn on its head the historian Richard Hofstadter's old stereotype of the resentful evangelical bumpkin who equates intellectual life and high culture with privilege and social status he doesn't have.
These flourishes are also intended as proof of intellectual seriousness. "I'm critical of evangelical anti-intellectualism — the attitude that it's not important to learn because we'll all be raptured soon," says Matthew McCabe, the N.S.A. alumnus, who is now pursuing a Ph.D. in medieval English literature at the University of Toronto. "I'm also critical of the view of pragmatists, who are receptive to education but only to pragmatic ends." Fundamentally, the college tries to reunite faith and reason: to devise a medieval antidote to the post-Enlightenment confinement of religion to Sunday morning. In a community this tightly knit, where weekends bring more bonding at church, marathon Sunday brunches and endless "psalm sings" (if you come to N.S.A. without having mastered four-part fugal harmony, you'd better learn quick), the pomp and ritual further bond students from 31 states and five foreign countries into a band of cultured missionaries.
Students at New St. Andrews grin and complain that their teachers assign more than 1,000 pages of reading each week. Seniors write theses that run to more than 80 pages. Yet intellectual merit badges cannot guarantee an education in critical thinking. Evan Wilson, 52, has been estranged from his older brother's church and college ever since a theological quarrel in the late 1980s that he dubs "the Great Unpleasantness." We sat in his library, a forest green room appointed with leather club chairs and pictures of the Battle of Waterloo. Lighting his briar pipe, Evan called himself "the local Pelagian" and explained his very un-Calvinist view that God cannot predestine our future because the future does not exist; it is only an abstract concept, shaped by our free will. He runs his own church — one of three Wilson ministries in town, including that of his father, Jim, who brought the family to Moscow in the early 1970s to found a chain of Christian bookstores.
Evan sees a lack of critical thinking among N.S.A. students, an inability to systematically question their own assumptions. "When I meet these young men who are trying to smoke pipes and talk about Chesterton, and they haven't put Chesterton through the wringer, all I'll say is, 'Look, guys, his good turn of phrase in "Orthodoxy" does not make him a good thinker,' " he said. "When I went through college, some of my greatest moments of advancement were with a professor who hated my guts and didn't agree with any of my premises. . . . Our thoughts exist in broader company."
The faculty at New St. Andrews is hardly diverse. Several are N.S.A. graduates who went on to do master's degrees elsewhere and came back to teach. Only 4 of 17 faculty members have Ph.D.'s (those few are always addressed as "Doctor" — proof that N.S.A. has not entirely escaped the intellectual insecurity typical of evangelical colleges). Doug Wilson's son, son-in-law and youngest brother teach at the college. "Someone's going to say, 'Isn't that a little cozy?' " Wilson admits. "Part of modernity's negative legacy is the pretense of objectivity. All institutions thrive on interconnectedness, affection and loyalty." N.S.A.'s philosophy is that cultural change begins with right worship and community rather than with political activism. College life revolves around Christ Church and Trinity Reformed Church — both members of the Confederation of Reformed Evangelical Churches, a denomination based on "historic Protestant orthodoxy" that Wilson co-founded in 1998. The college handbook forbids students to embrace or promote "doctrinal errors" from the 4th through the 21st centuries, "such as Arianism, Socinianism, Pelagianism, Skepticism, Feminism." If drawn to such ideas, they must "inform the administration immediately and honestly in a letter offering to withdraw from the College." Cultural revolution cannot tolerate heretics.
JOSHUA APPEL, A MODEL N.S.A. professor, graduated from New St. Andrews in 2001. He did a master's degree at Reformed Theological Seminary in Florida before returning to his alma mater to teach and raise a family. (His wife is also an N.S.A. alumna — the school is a capable matchmaker, and during May and June student weddings occupy nearly every weekend.) At 2 p.m. one Friday, a group of students gathered for a seminar in Appel's living room. One boy, perched on the piano bench, offered some armchair psychology on the week's reading: the letters of Abelard and Heloise. Two girls balanced mugs of tea on their knees and wondered how Heloise could disregard God's command against fornication. Appel seemed frustrated. He wanted them to find connections between this text and previous readings, not offer casual opinions. As at any college, on some days discussion is better than others — and sometimes students clam up in the presence of an observer. But perhaps strict theological conformity has its drawbacks. The college "could have been a more vibrant place for debate," recalls Matthew McCabe.
Like the majority of his classmates, Eric Mabry, a 21-year-old from Texas who hopes to pursue a Ph.D. in philosophy, was home-schooled. Before he got his driver's license he was studying Latin and reading Thomas Aquinas. At N.S.A., he is known for occasionally wearing a monk's habit. When he told professors at his local community college that he was going to attend New St. Andrews, "it created a small firestorm," Eric says. N.S.A. was not even accredited back then. But the teachers close to him respected his choice because "they knew me and they knew my presuppositions," he says. "People in a secular school are just as constrained. The only difference is, I'm aware of my worldview." Eric smiles. "Some call it a straitjacket — I prefer to think of it as a nicely fitted suit."
The phrases that N.S.A. students are trained to use — like "Christian worldview" and "presuppositions" — are the tag lines of the theological tradition that partly inspired their college. In the early 20th century, a Dutch theologian named Cornelius Van Til introduced a kind of theology called presuppositionalism. He argued that no assumptions are neutral and that the human mind can comprehend reality only if proceeding from the truth of biblical revelation. In other words, it is impossible for Christians to reason with non-Christians. presuppositionalism is a strangely postmodern theory that denies the possibility of objectivity — though it does not deny the existence of truth, which belongs to Christians alone.
According to critics, this school of thought equips young Christians to read and discuss non-Christian ideas without ever taking them seriously. "The trouble is that once you've figured out someone's presuppositions, you can write them off as right or wrong without having to deal with their arguments. . . . It becomes anti-intellectual," says Darryl Hart, a historian who has taught at Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia, the birthplace of presuppositionalism. Token "anti-Christians" like Margaret Sanger, Karl Marx and Charles Darwin appear on N.S.A. syllabuses, but students say these rarely generate serious debate. Darwin, for his part, remains only "a curious event in the history of modern secularism," Matthew McCabe says.
Students at New St. Andrews rarely read Van Til's dense theological treatises. They absorb his ideas from their teachers. A few faculty members at New St. Andrews also had links with a largely defunct offshoot of Van Til's thought called Christian Reconstructionism. The movement's founder, Rousas John Rushdoony, wrote that Christians should gradually take control of society and reinstate Old Testament law — including the execution of adulterers and homosexuals. Most N.S.A. faculty members are quick to distance themselves from the movement, but not Doug Wilson.
Wilson emphasizes his flexibility when it comes to Old Testament law. "You can't apply Scripture woodenly," he says; instead of executing them, "you might exile some homosexuals, depending on the circumstances and the age of the victim." He adds: "There are circumstances in which I'd be in favor of execution for adultery. . . . I'm not proposing legislation. We're saying, Let's set up the Christian worldview, and our descendants 500 years from now can work out the knotty problems." Gene Veith, who is provost of Patrick Henry College and active in classical Christian education, fears Wilson's views are a handicap for the movement. "One of the frustrating things for me is that people sometimes associate the classical Christian education movement with Doug Wilson, so some people are sort of afraid of it," he says.
Wilson and others at New St. Andrews say they are laying the groundwork for the long-term reinvigoration of evangelical intellectual life — and for Christian cultural ascendancy. Time and again, they assert that they are not trying to influence politics and that the antagonism they face is persecution. "The Gospels make it clear that as we're faithful, we can expect opposition," says Peter Leithart, who teaches theology. It's hard to deny, however, that Wilson goes out of his way to provoke. "The object was to take over the town with the Gospel of Jesus Christ, but to do it in an underground fashion," says Wilson's father, now nearly 80 and still running his ministry. "One of the principles of war is surprise. You don't tell people what you're going to do. Doug told them, and he gave them someone to shoot at."
Evan Wilson, who disagrees with his brother on most things, does credit the leaders of New St. Andrews with remaining true to their vision. Rather than seeking change "by force of vote," he says, they look to "a natural percolation of this culture they're offering." Yet, to quote the iconic conservative author Richard Weaver, "ideas have consequences." New St. Andrews's chronic spats with liberals in town belie the claim that one can wholly separate the noble liberal arts from the crass business of politics. "For years, evangelicals have been fighting abortion and evolution with rubber-band guns, but there's all this great stuff from thousands of years ago, when they were wrestling with similar questions," says Joanna Gray, a 24-year-old alumna. "It's there to be found — you just have to study and find it."


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FRANKFURT (Reuters) - Deutsche Bank (DBKGn.DE) is "uncomfortable" with the uncertainty over regulations following Britain's departure from the European Union, a senior official at Germany's biggest bank said on Thursday.
Sylvie Matherat, the bank's chief regulatory officer, said normally a regulator sets the framework, and then a bank adapts to fit the mould.
But now, it's the reverse situation, with Deutsche Bank forced to lay out its Brexit plans to regulators in Britain and Germany before there is an actual framework in place.
"At this stage, we are asked by regulators on both sides to send to them our plans, and then they tell us if they like them or not," she said. "Normally it's the other way around: The regulation first, and then we adapt."
"At this stage, it's a little uncomfortable," she said at a conference in Frankfurt, with the chief of Germany's financial watchdog at her side on stage.
The bank is headquartered in Frankfurt, but has large operations in London. She declined to say how many of the bank's jobs might move from London, though in the past she has said it could be up to 4,000.
The Bank of England has said it might force EU banks such as Deutsche, which currently operate in Britain as branches, to convert their London outposts into subsidiaries, which would require additional capital.
European banks have privately warned they will have to shift thousands of people out of Britain if Brexit negotiations push the Bank of England to demand that they reinforce London operations with fresh capital.
Reporting by Tom Sims; Editing by Mark Potter

subset: commoncrawl


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In Overheard, we're sharing all of the best tidbits we couldn't help picking up on—from smart tips on the Hotline to funny quotes heard around the water cooler and more—so we can all be in the know.
Last month, the Food52 editors thought they tried 10 of the most unusual peanut butter food pairings. You've all continued to share truly unique combinations with us in the comments, and this week, Food52er diane shared what might be the strangest combination we've heard yet: peanut butter and pepperoni. She suggests making mini peanut butter sandwiches—with the pepperoni serving as the bread. We can't say we rushed to the kitchen to test this one out yet...
Tell us: Would you try this? Is there any food peanut butter doesn't work with?
Photo by James Ransom
See what other Food52 readers are saying.


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Hello there and welcome to my new blog – Everyday Classy!
My name is Mariah, and I have decided to start my very own style blog because I find myself browsing through fashion/beauty websites on a daily basis and have found a great interest in anything style-related. I love learning new ways to create outfits, accessorize, and apply makeup. Anything involving shoes, clothes, makeup, designer labels, and handbags has my heart. In my free time, you can find me window shopping online. (Some of my friends think I have a problem).
What I hope to accomplish from my blog is to provide advice to fashion and beauty-conscious young people. Since I am also a college student, my funds to support my love of fashion are sort of, well…low. This is why I hope to help those who are just like me and focus on giving style tips and ideas for less. But I don't want to stop there! Every now and then, I'll also post helpful tips on everyday life, ranging from interview techniques to healthy eating habits. After all, looking the part isn't the only ingredient to feeling great and living a successful, enjoyable life!
As I work on my blog over the next few months, if you have any suggestions on posts that I could do, please leave them in the comments below!
Stay classy!


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Home- Check out what's happening lately in the iShouts world
New iShouts! iShouts Chinese Zodiacs! Which one is your zodiac sign?
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iShouters, like you and me have unique ways of expressing their feelings. Have a look, and you just might find one that is like you.
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Got comments or suggestions?, or request for characters? Goto the contact us page.
Please come back often to visit, as new iShouters will pop up when you are least expected.


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Perhaps some of you are participating in the Women's Marches being held around the country this weekend. If so, you might be wondering just what to wear. Many women will be sporting pink knit hats, otherwise known as "pussy hats." I'm blushing a little just writing that out–which may be why it took me so [...]
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Home sales in North Texas hit record in June with more than 10,000 houses sold
North Texas home sales jumped by 12 percent in June, with a record number of properties changing hands. Real estate agents sold 10,575 preowned single-family homes last month. Home sales… Sourced through Scoop.it from: bizbeatblog.dallasnews.com Home sales still hot in Dallas – Fort Worth. See on Scoop.it – Texas Lots and Land


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Food: Banana Caramel Crêpe/ Consumed: Häagen-Dazs in Nice, France/ Date: July 27 2014
This post wraps up the first month of Food Photo Friday! Here goes:
It was our final day in Nice, so Moana and I decided to treat ourselves to something for brunch before we went on our long train ride back to Paris, so whilst looking around, we stumbled across a Häagen-Dazs and thought we'd be a bit naughty and have ice-cream for brunch.
I went for my usual caramel latte and then got the wonderful sounding, Banana Caramel Crêpe. The menu described it as, "a warm crepe, a scoop of Dulce de Leche and a scoop of Banoffee, slices of banana all drizzled with butterscotch sauce, whipped cream and a scattering of caramelised hazelnuts." How fantastic does that sound?!
It arrived looking deliciously beautiful and was unsurprisingly very sweet. It was nearly on the verge of being too sweet, but not quite! There was so much on my plate though, that I wasn't able to finish it all! Definitely satisfying both for my stomach and my sweet tooth!
It definitely felt a bit strange having ice cream for breakfast though! Would you feel the same?


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The writer described the different approaches various coaches have in working with the press:
Some coaches play the media like a Gibson Les Paul. (See: Kelly, Brian.) Some coaches use their media sessions like couch trips. (See: Huggins, Bob, and Piniella, Lou.) Some use them to send messages to their players. Jack McKeon did that. Marvin Lewis considers dealing with the media en masse a waste of time, like trying to teach Spanish to an English muffin. Fair enough. But dealing with us dull-normal media dopes is part of the job description. Why not make the best of it?
Clearly, the relationship between coaches and the sports media has evolved over the years. In his book "You're Missin' a Great Game," Whitey Herzog, who played in the '50s and '60s, described his former manager Casey Stengel's philosophy on working with reporters:
"He would say 'Give 'em your own story, 'cause if you don't, they're just gonna go ahead and make up their own, and what good'll that do ya?' Then he'd reel off some more whoppers. Then there was his other motto for dealing with the press: 'When they ask you a question,' he said, 'answer it and just keep on talkin'. That way they can't ask you another one.'"
In his 46 years as an NBA player and coach, Warriors coach Don Nelson has seen the evolution first hand.
Recently, he voiced his disappointment about not being able to be as candid when talking to reporters as he was in the past:
"I tell you what's been disappointing. That I can't be myself anymore. That I have to be careful what I say because everybody reads so much into whatever it is I try to be honest about that I can't even talk about things that I used to. I used to be very free with the media. Very open, free and honest, and I'm not allowed to do that anymore. That's probably the worst thing that's happened."
Legendary college baseball coach Gordie Gillespie, who's led teams to four NAIA National Championships, has a healthy perspective on dealing with the press, one that I agree with:
"The media has a job to do, just like you. Try to make their job easier by your cooperation."
At last year's Super Bowl, when asked about his approach to interacting with reporters, Patriots coach Bill Belichick said he tries "to answer the questions in a forthright way."
In the mid-1990s, the American Football Coaches Association published a book titled "Football Coaching Strategies." In it is a section on "the coach and public relations."
"When dealing with the press, [the coach] should tell the truth, or say nothing. To mislead the press is neither ethical nor sensible. Most [reporters] are interested in sports and want to portray sports in a positive sense, and very often a coach can give them information that can help them do this. On the other hand, the coach has no right to expect [reporters] to write exactly as the coach sees it."
I've always admired Phil Jackson's relationship with the news media. As this article from 2007 describes, "[Coach] Jackson has a penchant for brutal honesty and a zest for tweaking his players through the news media."
He has derided Lakers center Kwame Brown for having "butterfingers," dubbed forward Vladimir Radmanovic "a space cadet" and generally bemoaned his players' lack of interest in reading by suggesting they would rather "play video games and watch porn movies."
Said Coach Jackson: "I think the best policy is honesty. When you're not honest, I think you run into Bush-itis."
I've read where former White House press secretary Ari Fleischer does seminars for coaches and players on dealing with the press. As Fleischer puts it:
"The sports press has become just as aggressive as the political press. My job is to help the coaches and the players use mental discipline, think through and to answer those questions accurately and honestly, but you don't have to stir the pot."
Rick Pitino wrote in his book, "Success is a Choice," that dealing with the press is "one of the most difficult parts" of his job. Sometimes, on the occasion when a reporter has written something "wrong or unfair" about him or his team, Coach Pitino will call the writer.
"Maybe there's some sense of truth [to the story]. Maybe it's the result of some sort of misunderstanding. But the only way to find out is to communicate with that person. Otherwise it all gets complicated. You see so much of that: He said this, she said that, then he said something else. Around and around it goes; and where it ends, nobody knows. Only that it's never good. The way to correct this? Pick up the phone. Communicate."
The late George Young (pictured above), the former GM for the NY Giants and 5-time NFL Executive of the Year, wrote extensively about dealing with the media in the book "Football: Rising to the Challenge."
Young's audience for the passage was college players moving to the pros, but his advice has relevance for coaches, as well.
Here's an excerpt from the book:
For a professional athlete, preparation is a crucial element of successful performance in any activity. Dealing with the press is no exception. Players should recognize that dealing with the media is part of being a professional athlete, and knowing how to react to the media before actually being hit with questions would serve them well.
Rule number one is to never criticize another player in the league, your coach, your team, or your teammates. The secret to avoid these mistakes is not to let the media to put you in a position where it would be easy to make inappropriate comments.
A player has to develop the ability to say, "No, I don't want to answer that question." You should be polite. You should be fairly accessible, but you don't have to answer every question. Remember to take your time. Think -- and answer only the questions you feel comfortable answering.
You can talk about yourself. Talk about your performance. Focus on your job, but don't be critical of other people publicly. You can be accessible, but don't let them get you into issues that are internal to the team. Your dealings with the media should center on your job and only your job. Once something is in print, you can't take it back.
There are a whole host of things that I decided firmly in advance to never discuss with the media. When they'd ask me about these issues, I'd laugh and say, "You know I won't answer that." Most of the time, the media would say they were just testing me or that they at least had to try to ask the question.
Follow this strategy and, after awhile, the media will understand you and your limits, and know what they can ask you and what they can't. Once you get to that point, your relationship with the media should be fine.


text:
The Science of Mind, by Ernest Shurtleff Holmes [1926], at sacred-texts.com
p. 130
Mental healing means mind healing. The possibility of healing physical diseases through the power of right thinking rests entirely on the theory that we are surrounded by an Infinite Mind which reacts to our thought.
That people have been healed through prayer and by faith in all ages, there is no question. But we live in a Universe of Law and Order, and at no time can that Law or Order be broken; therefore, if people have been healed through prayer and faith, it is because they have somewhere contacted a Law which really exists. To suppose that God would heal one man any more readily than another, would be to suppose that God is human and subject to the changing emotions that we ascribe to the human mind. To believe that the Divine Power would operate for one man simply because he asked It to, but would not operate for all, would be to believe in a God more human than man himself. It is very evident, however, that many times people have been healed through prayer; and either God has especially answered them, while He left others to suffer, or else by the act of prayer they have complied with some law. Again, many people have prayed and their prayers have not been answered; yet they have prayed to the best of their ability. Why have some been heard and others not heard? The only possible answer is that some reached a place in their mentality where they believed, while others fell short of this mental attitude. After all, prayer is a certain mental attitude, a certain way of thinking, a certain way of believing. All prayer is mental; some prayers reach a state of belief, while others fall short of that state. This leads us to suppose that the answer to prayer is in the prayer when it is prayed. True prayer stimulates a belief in Good which nothing else can, and often causes
p. 131
the one who prays to rise to a point in mentality where the healing work may be done according to the Law of the Universe, which is a Law of Mind.
We have no objection to any form of healing. Anything that will help to overcome suffering must be good, whether it takes the form of a pill or of a prayer. We do not oppose doctors nor medical practitioners, but gratefully acknowledge the wonderful work that they have done and are doing. We hold no controversy with any one on the subject of healing. We are glad when any one is healed, or helped, by any method. We believe in any and all methods, and know that each has its place in the whole. We know that man's life is a drama which takes place on three planes;--the physical, the mental and the spiritual. We know that each needs to be taken into account. We believe in proper food, proper exercise, proper clothing, proper sanitation and in everything that is real and sensible. We include all and exclude none.
But, while we do not hold arguments with any one, neither will we allow any one to hold controversies with us. We know that man's life, in reality, is spiritual and mental; and that until the thought is healed, no form of cure will be permanent. We will gladly coöperate with any and all; but we will not accept the judgment of any and all. We know that there is a Law higher than the physical, and we seek to use It. We, perhaps, shall not always succeed, but we shall not become discouraged or confused over the issue, but will continue until we arrive.
We hold no arguments over any form of theology. We believe in any and every church and in all forms of worship. Above all, we certainly believe in God. But we will not allow any one to tell us how to worship God, nor compel us to worship in any way other than the way we choose.
We reject the theory that the Truth has been once and for all time given and that It cannot be added to nor taken from. We know this to be true about the Truth; but we also know that no one, so far, has arrived at a complete understanding of Truth. We expect more light all along the line, and we repudiate any belief that says that all truth has been given.
We know that the authority of man is, in most cases, an assumption
p. 132
and not a reality, and we refuse to be hypnotized into believing in any man-made mandate.
We understand that health is a mental and not a physical state. We seek to heal men's mentalities, knowing that to the degree in which we are successful we shall also be healing their bodies. We know that to the degree in which we are able to see a perfect man he will appear. We feel that man is really perfect, no matter how he appears; and we seek to uncover that perfection which is within every man's life, for this is healing.
We realize that mental healing must also be spiritual healing, for the two cannot be divorced. We know that a belief in duality has made man sick and that the understanding of Unity alone will heal him. We seek to realize that Unity with God in all our healing work. Every treatment must carry with it a realization of God if it is to be a good treatment.
We are not superstitious about this, but understand that it is necessary since all Life is One. God stands to us for the One Life in which we all live.
We know that thoughts are things. We know that thought is intelligent and has power within itself to objectify itself. We know that belief makes thought very powerful. We know that our thought lays hold of Causation and manipulates real Substance. We know that the word of man is the law of his life, under the One Great Law of all Life. We know that thoughts of sickness make man sick, and that thoughts of health and perfection will heal him. We know that a realization of the Presence of God is the most powerful healing agency known to the mind of man. We do not argue over the issue, nor seek to convince any one of its merits. We have passed the stage of doubt and uncertainty; for we KNOW. We also know that we can heal only to the degree that we can think from the higher motive; and we know that we should be constantly on the alert, seeking to embody higher thoughts.
p. 133
[paragraph continues] Meanwhile, we will use the best thought that we have and will expect to heal and help all who ask our aid.
Thought is the conscious activity of the one thinking, and works as he directs; it works through Law, but that Law is consciously set in motion. We know that Law will operate for us to the fullest extent of our belief in, and understanding of, it.
We realize that since our understanding is not yet complete, it is legitimate to use any and all methods that will help humanity; but we do look forward to the day when Truth alone will answer every need. That day will come to the degree that we know it is already here. The mental healer will do all of his work in Mind and will give his whole time and attention to correct knowing; but he will leave his patient free to use any method that will help him. In this way he will get the best results, for everything is good so far as it goes; but a consciousness of Truth alone can really and permanently heal.


text: Catríona Dowling, a third year PhD student in the Department of Life Sciences and Materials and Surface Science Institute has this month been the recipient of two prestigious travel awards totaling over €7,500. The first of these was awarded by ACEA Biosciences, a California based biotechnology company who award 4 travel scholarships each year to researchers who have published high impact papers using their technology. This award will allow Catríona to attend the American Association for Cancer Research annual meeting taking place this April in Philadelphia. Catríona will present her work at this meeting, which will be attended by over 20,000 cancer researchers. Catríona has also been awarded a mobility grant by the Irish Cancer Society, which will allow her to spend the summer at the University of California San Diego. There, she will have the opportunity to work in one of the worlds leading cancer research laboratories on a programme designed to build collaborations and expertise. Catríona is funded by the Irish Cancer society and is supervised by Dr Pat Kiely


text:
The median home value in Mira Loma, CA is $418,500.
This is
higher than
the county median home value of $343,000.
The national median home value is $209,892.
The average price of homes sold in Mira Loma, CA is $418,500.
Approximately 61.67% of Mira Loma homes are owned,
compared to 32.33% rented, while
6% are vacant.
Mira Loma real estate listings include condos, townhomes, and single family homes for sale.
Commercial properties are also available.
If you like to see a property, contact Mira Loma real estate agent to arrange a tour today!
Learn more about Mira Loma.
Gorgeous 5 bedroom,3 full bathrooms, large loft,office/flex room, large laundry room and large walk in closet in the beautiful community of lennar harvest villages.home has multiple upgrades including custom tile throughout downstairs,shutters on all windows, upgraded carpet, fully landscaped/hardscaped,dog run, 2 covered patios with lights and fans, a gazebo and outdoor fire place!!!this house is a must see...
The information being provided by California Regional Multiple Listing Service, Inc. ("CRMLS") is for your personal, non-commercial use and may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties you may be interested in purchasing. Any information relating to a property referenced on this web site comes from CRMLS. This web site may reference real estate listing(s) held by a brokerage firm other than the broker and/or agent who owns this website. The accuracy of all information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed and should be personally verified through personal inspection by and/or with the appropriate professionals. The data contained herein is copyrighted by CRMLS and is protected by all applicable copyright laws. Any dissemination of this information is in violation of copyright laws and is strictly prohibited.
Based on information from CARETS as of [timestamp]. The information being provided by CARETS is for the visitor's personal, noncommercial use and may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties visitor may be interested in purchasing. The data contained herein is copyrighted by CARETS, CLAW, CRISNet MLS, i-Tech MLS, PSRMLS and/or VCRDS and is protected by all applicable copyright laws. Any dissemination of this information is in violation of copyright laws and is strictly prohibited. Any property information referenced on this website comes from the Internet Data Exchange (IDX) program of CRISNet MLS and/or CARETS. All data, including all measurements and calculations of area, is obtained from various sources and has not been, and will not be, verified by broker or MLS. All information should be independently reviewed and verified for accuracy. Properties may or may not be listed by the office/agent presenting the information.
IDX provided by Real Estate Digital.


text:
The Natural Resources Conservation Service is now accepting applications for Kansas Forest Service's "Water Quality Improvement through the Implementation of Forestry Practices" initiative. A five-year partnership agreement between NRCS and the Kansas Forest Service provides free technical assistance, in addition to $8.1 million in financial assistance to landowners who implement conservation practices, such as planting trees to control erosion and improve water quality.
With additional financial assistance from Watershed Restoration and Protection Strategy groups, a landowner would only need to cover 10 percent of the total conservation project cost.
"This project provides a great opportunity where conservation stewardship can add value to the property at a reasonable cost," said Eric Banks, NRCS Kansas state conservationist.
Assistance is available for landowners in targeted watersheds. Many Kansas streams in the eastern one-third of Kansas lack adequate tree cover to stabilize streambanks.
According to the Kansas Water Office, federal reservoirs in Kansas serve as the source of municipal and industrial water for more than two-thirds of the state's population. Runoff and erosion contribute to sedimentation of these reservoirs. Trees help stabilize river banks, keep debris off of fields, and ultimately improve water quality by reducing sediment entry into streams. This program also funds the improvement of the quality and productivity of woodlands and forests, which are vital to overall watershed health.
This type of partnership agreement is a new feature included in the 2014 Farm Bill. Called the Regional Conservation Partnership Program, it encourages partners to join in efforts with producers to increase the restoration and sustainable use of soil, water, wildlife, and related natural resources on regional or watershed scales. The program lets partners (such as the Kansas Forest Service) stretch their resources and share expertise to help producers install and maintain conservation activities in selected project areas.
Applications will be taken until funding is exhausted, and the project will be funded on a first come, first served basis as long as the resource concern meets the NRCS and Kansas Forest Service conservation criteria.
For more information on eligibility requirements and how to apply, call or visit your local NRCS office located in USDA Service Centers. Locations and contact information are available online at www.ks.nrcs.usda.gov by clicking on "Find a Service Center" under "Kansas Links." Eligible areas and more information can be found on the Kansas Forest Service website: www.kansasforests.org/streamside_forestry/rcpp.html, or by calling or emailing Bob Atchison, rural forestry coordinator with the Kansas Forest Service, 785-532-3310 or [email protected].
About the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service
"Black Sunday" on April 14, 1935, is known as the worst dust storm in American history. After moving across Kansas, the dust cloud reached Washington, D.C. on the next day, with the sky so dark, lights had to be turned on at noon. Congress took action. President Roosevelt signed the bill creating the Soil Conservation Services on April 27, 1935. Now called the Natural Resources Conservation Service, we have a deeply held vision of a nation where use of resources is guided by a widely shared and heartfelt stewardship ethic. Our approach starts with talking one-on-one with landowners to understand their goals and then applying science-based conservation practices to create a plan to fix problems such as soil health, grazing capacity, water and wind erosion, wildlife preservation or wetland management. To help people help the land to sustain their livelihood now and for the future.
About the Kansas Forest Service
The Kansas Forest Service is the nation's fifth oldest state forestry agency. The agency serves rural landowners, communities, rural fire districts, forest and arboriculture industries, and citizens of the state through its Conservation Tree and Shrub Planting, Fire Management, Community Forestry, Rural Forestry, Marketing and Utilization, and Forest Health programs. The Kansas Forest Service state office is located in Manhattan, Kansas, just off the campus of Kansas State University. The agency is administratively attached to the Department of Horticulture, Forestry and Recreation Resources, College of Agriculture, Kansas State University. The agency receives its direction from a mission statement that reads: "Care of Natural Resources and Service to People through Forestry."


text:
When you are someone who loves the chance to really open up your home, you cannot help but be attracted to plantation shutters. These shutters are made of lovely painted or stained wood, and they are often used inset into the window, sparing you the need to get drapery of any sort. They increase the value of your home, and once they are in, they are a permanent fixture. While you might know that these are the shutters for you, take a moment to consider where they look their best.
They say that the kitchen is the heart of the home, and when you really want to make your kitchen shine, you will find that plantation shutters can help. This wooden window dressing lets in plenty of light, and the horizontal slats create a subtle echo to all of the horizontal spaces that appear in the kitchen. Think about eating breakfast in the warm morning light, and you will discover that this might be just where you need these shutters!
Another great place for this type of window dressing is in the living room. While you can have one or two shutters here and there, why not consider the chance to create something dramatic? Because plantation shutters are more secure than other window dressings, you will find that they can protect your home. Look for a wall that is lined with windows and use this type of shutter to cover them all. This is a good way to bring in light and also to add an impressive amount of visual variety to your living spaces.
These shutters are perfect when you are looking for a hint of the old with a lot of the new for your home, so make your purchase with care and consideration!


text:
SIR: The Jonathan government is no longer in any pretence to pass for a government, but a rampage. The charade masquerading as governance is gradually embracing its precincts of extinction. In its incurable passion for self immolation, the fear is rife that it does not accomplish its avowed aim by pulling an already decrepit country along with it. There is no doubting the fact that Jonathan's government has become, even in its paralytic state; self-serving.
This verdict is devoid of grudge or malice, albeit the government itself has done nothing unworthy of it! A hapless and clueless government is making hopelessness so commonplace that it is almost a march of idleness to dream! It is a government that kills everything decent and noble.
The children of the present Nigeria no longer see a future ahead of them worthy of hopeful embrace. What with insecurity and no guarantee for the safety of human life? Life and living, than at any other time in Nigeria, assume the same dangerous pattern; the brutish and the short!
The youth of the present Nigeria has lost reasons for dreams, given the cluelessness of and the dearth of leadership. The older generation is mentally stranded in unfathomable bewilderment. The question forcibly inhabiting their awe-primed lips seem to be; how did we get here, this is a different Nigeria from the one we fought to make independent!
Or what is the name for a government which surreptitiously forlorn its electoral mandate to embrace a priceless arena with a state governor? And in its mindless frenzy to foster the annihilation of the governor, it began to desecrate the country's constitutional sacristy, an arena it swore under oath to defend? Or by what description does a government that consistently but shamelessly lends authenticity to unalloyed illegalities and breaches of everything sanctified be named?
How can a rational conviction excepting irrationality (even insanity?) be grounded that the numerical number 16, is greater than 19? Only in a democratic fantasia, passing for a government, such as the present can that be excused!
And l also hasten to ask if it does not cut short of irredeemable democratic dementia, how in God's earth does five out of 36 house members constitutionally arm to impeach a speaker? Somebody somewhere must as a matter of urgency call the budding dictatorial leviathan to the democratic order. Nigerians paid very direful price to get the present near-semblance of democratic rule in place, than to sit tail-in-thigh and watch a fraudulent rulership deconstruct that labour of tears and pains with its intolerably organised cluelessness and arrogance.
Where are the Tunde Bakares? Where are all lovers of constitutional democracy; where are all lovers of Nigeria? It is time to save her, again!
• Wole Jones


text: After taking his Dive Bar Tour to Chicago (July 15), Bakersfield (Aug. 15), New Braunfels (Sept. 23), Sanford (Oct. 16) and Rootstown (Oct. 28), Garth Brooks announced the final two stops on the tour: Prospectors in Mt. Laurel, N.J., and Six String in Foxboro, Mass. Both tour stops will take place on Dec. 2. The…… MORE


text:
Amarok 2.0 Rocks the World
After two years of intense development, Amarok 2 has become a reality! Some of the highlights that are included in the 2.0 release are a completely redesigned user interface, tight integration with online services such as Magnatune, Jamendo, MP3tunes, Last.fm and Shoutcast. There is an overhauled scripting API and plugin support to allow better integration into Amarok. Much of the work has gone into migration from the KDE 3 to KDE 4 framework using core technologies such as Solid, Phonon, and Plasma. Read more about the new release in the release announcement and start Amaroking!
The user interface has been redesigned to make context information like lyrics and albums from the same artist more accessible and allow the users to decide which information is most important to them by adding applets to the Context View in the middle. The new Biased Playlists offer a way to let Amarok take care of your playlist in an intelligent way similar to Dynamic Playlists in previous versions. A new service framework allows for a tight integration of online services like Jamendo, Magnatune and Ampache. New services can easily be written as a script. More applets and scripts are being worked on and users are welcome to contribute more to make Amarok suit their needs. The migration from the KDE 3 to KDE 4 framework allows to make use of technologies like Plasma, Phonon and Solid which make Amarok easier to use and maintain and ready for the future of music on your computer and on the internet.
Re: Outdated users...
'Don't you guys realize, that even if programming is done in your spare time, the complaining users are your "customers"'
++ Does Not Compute ++
'I really don't like the attitude which seems to prevail in some KDE4-projects nowadays, in which users complaining about the developments in their favorite programs are more or less told to "shut up".'
Actually, the prevailing theme I see is "we're working on it". People, of course, would much rather be perverse and simply assume that the Bad Old Incompetent KDE Guys are purposefully working against everyone's (including their own) interest because, hey, melodrama and Raging Against The Man are more fun.
"At least KDE4 is finally shaping up"
Fun Fact (assuming by "KDE4" you mean "Plasma") - Plasma is the poster-child project for the "OMG KDE devs don't listen to their users" brigade. Now - what does the fact that, by your own admission, it's "shaping up" tell you about the attitude the devs have towards their users? The answer may surprise you!!
A hint, in case you can't figure out the reason: I'm sure there will be lots of reports of Amarok 2 "shaping up" as it progresses.
By anon at Fri, 2008/12/12 - 6:00am
Re: Outdated users...
Customer is in common speech somebody who aquires and uses a product, no matter whether it is produced by billionaires, slaves or volunteers.
"We are working on it": then please tell me why Amarok 2 developpers' blogs - which I am as a Amarok 1.4 fan am following, are you? - show a pretty negative attidude towards quite some of the features users are missing since Amarok 1.4? Old-style-playlist, searchable playlist, cleaner layout, and stuff?
KDE4: I never said I'm completely happy with it. However, slowly but gradually, it's getting usable and more stable. Nevertheless I don't like some of the developpers' attitude towards the user base.
To your hint: How will Amarok 2 be shaping up if developpers say they don't care about those features? By some magic or what? Yes, I'm sure, Amarok 2 will gradually integrate more of the features, but it seems it will take a lot of user's bickering...
By Larx at Fri, 2008/12/12 - 6:00am
Re: Outdated users...
"Customer is in common speech somebody who aquires and uses a product, no matter whether it is produced by billionaires, slaves or volunteers."
1. a person who *purchases* goods or services from another; buyer; patron.
If your intended meaning was 2., I can hardly think of a worse choice of word.
"To your hint: How will Amarok 2 be shaping up if developpers say they don't care about those features?"
How will Plasma "shape up" if developpers say they don't care about those features?
By anon at Fri, 2008/12/12 - 6:00am
Re: Outdated users...
Users -- whether you want to call them customers or not -- do not have any value in open source beyond the egoboo having many users may give contributors, or the possibility that they might become contributors. It's no problem if people go and use or implement something else -- it really isn't.
That said, many developers are human enough to like to please people, so they like to please users, too. But if they have a strong vision, they won't compromise on that vision just to please people. The amarok developers have a vision, and they implement on that vision. They have more than once explained that vision, and no doubt they consider that amarok is shaping up very nicely according to that vision. I don't use amarok -- I play my music with ogg123 on the command line -- but I can see from the screenshots that amarok is indeed the application the developers have been telling us they want to develop.
And that should be enough for you, too: they have told you what they want to do, they have done what they said they wanted to do, and they have given you a roadmap telling you what else they want to do. If you don't like that, tant pis, but it's not a failure on the part of the developers, it's a failure on your part to realize that in this new world you now longer have to make do with what you're given, but that you can make things yourself, if other people don't give you what you crave.
You like what you're given? Say thank-you to the people who have given you this gift. You like it but want it improved? Contribute. You don't like it at all? Create something that's more to your liking, and share it. But don't act as if people owe you something or as if your opinions, criticism or ideas have any value in and of themselves: they haven't. Your chances of telling the people doing the work something they haven't considered before are vanishingly small. Only actual contributions have worth. That's the payment you as a "customer" can give the project.
By Boudewijn Rempt at Fri, 2008/12/12 - 6:00am
Re: Outdated users...
You did not do a wonderful job of reading the release announcement (or we did not do a wonderful job of writing it, but the wording seems fairly clear to me..)
A searchable playlist, a queue, and many other amarok 1 features are going to return. Equalizer, visualizations, and most other features from amarok 1 are coming back.
The only things that are definatly not coming back are the Player window and multiple database support. Thats not much to lose, considdering that the former can be replaced easily by applets and the latter is not a huge deal no matter how you slice it.
By THIBOLOT at Sun, 2008/12/14 - 6:00am
Different output on Interface.
I think the Amarok team really tried something different with the UI on this release. Personally, just looking at pictures, it looks great for me but I guess alot of people just don't like it.
I haven't used it, so I don't know on usability but I can say congrats on this release. Probably the most missed application in KDE 4 and the last version of amarok was too outdated for me.
By jeremy at Thu, 2008/12/11 - 6:00am
Re: Different output on Interface.
Well it is a bit clunky, but web services are quite well integrated. The plasma area is currently a big annoyance for many. I can see where they are coming from in that it doesn't do anything particularly new in comparison to the old sidebar with wikipedia and stuff, however knowing it is powered by plasma I have high hopes for the future.
By txf at Fri, 2008/12/12 - 6:00am
Feature comparison vs version 1.4 ?
Thanks for your fine work !
I was wondering if there's a list somewhere of features that were in 1.4 but are not (yet ?) in amarok 2 ?
By Chris C at Fri, 2008/12/12 - 6:00am
Re: Feature comparison vs version 1.4 ?
Yes, please see this article on my blog:
By Mark Kretschmann at Fri, 2008/12/12 - 6:00am
Re: Feature comparison vs version 1.4 ?
By Nikolaj Hald Nielsen at Fri, 2008/12/12 - 6:00am
I want...
This is an "I want" list, not an "Amarok devs are obligated to capitulate to my requests" list.
I want a media player that hides and doesn't get in the way when I'm working.
Amarok adds functionality that I didn't initially want or expect (tons of great contextual information about my music from Wikipedia), but neither version 1 nor 2 fulfill my above criteria. Sadly, the best media player for my above list is WMP right now, and I hate the UI.
As far as the UI revolution of Amarok 2, I see why people feel strongly about it, either positively or negatively. Heck, all I want is the power to customize it, and then I think most people will be happy.
I'd also like to see Amarok develop some "common sense" features. I haven't used 2 very much, but version 1 had issues importing my library that started on Windows with WMP. I had tags on all my MP3s, but Amarok split albums and artists all over the place on case sensitivity issues. I don't know why. I'd have an album tagged in Windows, boot into Linux and Amarok would see it as two albums with case sensitivity issues, when the entire album is tagged the same way in Windows with no case differences. Amarok would change artists and split The Beatles into Beatles and The Beatles, when all my songs were tagged The Beatles to begin with.
The two-disc Phantom of the Opera soundtrack suddenly became 4 albums, with it messing up artist and album title tags.
Amarok does some things I love that no one else does, but it seems to me that no one gets the essentials right yet.http://amarok.kde.org/en/node/48
By T. J. Brumfield at Fri, 2008/12/12 - 6:00am
Debian Sid Amarok 2.0.1
From commandline:
amarok(10159) Phonon::KdePlatformPlugin::createBackend: using backend: "Xine"
Double-clicking on a CD from my collection immediately crashes the application:
And it pukes this up:
ASSERT: "s_instance->m_nullPort" in file /home/mdriftmeyer/Temp/KDE/kdebase-runtime/kdebase-runtime-4.1.3/phonon/xine/xineengine.cpp, line 256
Nice to see they got this sewed up.
Nice to see Kdenetworking still has bugs in it, eh? Dr. Konqi?
Clearly it's an issue:
Either Debian needs patches, Amarok was built against a different version of KDE 4.1.3 in Experimental or it's a known issue with Kdenetwork and QList range issues that must wait on a fix from Trolltech?
By Marc J. Driftmeyer at Sat, 2008/12/13 - 6:00am
I think Amarok 2 is very close to the greatest player you can imagine... but it's missing the mark. Let's make some suggestions.
1. The tab bar, in the side, is causing me a LOT of headaches. To use Internet Services, to browse Shoutcast, to enable Ampache or to browse my files, I have to:
a) Turn my head sideways and read the tab titles.
2. The placement of the playlist is odd. I must avoid falling in the Plasma hole while dragging my music files from the collection view to the playlist.
My suggestion? SCRAP COMPLETELY THE SIDED TAB BAR, and replace it with:
If you do it the way I'm thinking, you'll have a two sided player, with a Plasma container in the left, and the playlist in the right. If you want to browse your collection, select the appropiate tab and you have it. And if you want to add later your Visualization plasmoid or your Video plasmoid, you'll have the screen real estate you need.
Go, guys. It's not that difficult.
By Ernesto Manríquez at Sun, 2008/12/14 - 6:00am
This is the amarok I've been waiting for. Big thumbs up to the devs!
By Gazza at Tue, 2008/12/16 - 6:00am
Oh the Bazaar...
They should have named it something else so that the whining users didn't tag along...
By frozen at Wed, 2008/12/17 - 6:00am
Really nice!!! Thanks!
Downloaded and installed it yesterday! Played music all night!
Really, really nice!
No complaints at all. It runs like a charm on KDE 4.1.
By dkfjh at Wed, 2008/12/17 - 6:00am


text:
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Ґюху 186 - Fear not, Mary; for thou hast found favour with God. And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shall call his name JESUS. He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David: and he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end.■
Ґюху 83 - And when I saw him I fell at his feet as dead. And he laid his right hand upon me, saying unto me, "Fear not; I am the first and the last. I am he that liveth and was dead; and behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death.■
Ґюху 115 - See that ye refuse not him that speaketh : for if they escaped not who refused him that spake on earth, much more shall not we escape, if we turn away from him that speaketh from heaven...■
Ґюху 329 - Then answered Jesus, and said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, The Son can do nothing of himself, but what he seeth the Father do : for what things soever he doeth, these also doeth the Son likewise.■
Ґюху 203 - Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the temple of my God, and he shall go no more out: and I will write upon him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, which is new Jerusalem, which cometh down out of heaven from my God: and I will write upon him my new name.■
Ґюху 207 - These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God ; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God.■
Ґюху 190 - And we declare unto you glad tidings, how that the promise which was made unto the fathers, God hath fulfilled the same unto us their children, in that he hath raised up Jesus again ; as it is also written in the second Psalm, Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee.■
Ґюху 231 - And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and he that sat upon him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he doth judge and make war. His eyes were as a flame of fire, and on his head were many crowns; and he had a name written, that no man knew, but he himself. And he was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood: and his name is called The Word of God.■
Ґюху 242 - And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out My Spirit upon all flesh ; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions : and also upon the servants and upon the handmaids in those days will I pour out My Spirit.■
Ґюху 48 - Am I a God at hand, saith the Lord, and not a God afar off? Can any hide himself in secret places that I shall not see him ? saith the Lord. Do not I fill heaven and earth ? saith the Lord.■


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Tomorrow is the start of the 2013 Original Sewing and Quilting Expo, and I can't wait! In fact, I got a jumpstart by signing up for Cynthia Guffy's skirt-fitting class that was held today, and it was so much fun! If you have never taken a class with Cynthia, you owe it to yourself. If she is ever in your area, don't miss her. Her energy and anecdotes are a bonus to her hands-on and informative classes. Cynthia is a designer and independent pattern maker whose exquisite design details are immensely inspiring. Every time I have seen her, she is wearing something she made, and the fit and design is classy, innovative, and inspiring. I can't wait to get home and make my skirt!
Today's class was so much fun. Not only did I come away with a well-fitting master skirt pattern, but I was also able to watch her fit a variety of body types, solving all kinds of issues. Since Karen and I want to offer garment fitting courses in our studio at some time in the future, this was absolutely perfect. I took lots of notes!
On top of everything else, my fitting partner was Carla Powell from Roswell, and I was so excited to learn that she is also a sewing instructor! Carla offers classes at her studio called Stitch Pretty. She offers a variety of classes that sound very interesting, so if you live in the Atlanta area and want to take some quality classes, look her up at stitchpretty.com.
I'm going to bed early, so I'll be ready when the doors open in the morning. I'll be posting pictures and stories from each day, so stay tuned!


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I've written on this before, but I thought I'd revisit this again in two posts today. Indeed, I've been revisiting this material lately. I am currently preparing for a graduate level course on the Gospel of John at JP Catholic, which I will be co-teaching with Dr. Scott Hahn at JP Catholic.
Patristic Sources
Once again, I'm feeling a little overwhelmed by the weight of the earliest testimony regarding the question of authorship.
Clearly the unanimous testimony of the early Church was that John the Apostle wrote the book. Two of the clearest references are found in Irenaeus and the Muratorian fragment.
"Afterwards, John, the disciple of the Lord, who also had leaned upon His breast, did himself publish a Gospel during his residence at Ephesus in Asia."--Irenaeus, Adv. Haer. 3. 3. 4 (~180 A.D.)
"The fourth of the Gospels, that of John, (one) of the disciples. When his fellow-disciples and bishops urged him, he said: Fast with me from today for three days, and what will be revealed to each one let us relate to one another. In the same night it was revealed to Andrew, one of the apostles, that, whilst all were to go over (it), John in his own nameshould write everything down."--Muratorian Canon (late 2nd cent. [?])
Other writers who support this view include Tertullian, Clement of Alexandria, and Origen.
In addition, we should note that there is absolutely no manuscript of the Gospel which attributes authorship to anyone else. I think this is far too often overlooked.
But does the testimony of the early Church fit the internal evidence? I think so.
Eye-witness status of the author.
The Gospel seems to have been written by someone who claimed to be an eye-witness to the public ministry of Jesus. In some cases this is explicitly stated:
- "And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us… we have beheld his glory…" (John 1:14).
- "He who saw it has borne witness—his testimony is true, and he knows that he tells the truth—that you also may believe." (John 19:35)
One of his disciples, whom Jesus loved, was lying close to the breast of Jesus; 24 so Simon Peter beckoned to him and said, "Tell us who it is of whom he speaks." 25 So lying thus, close to the breast of Jesus, he said to him, "Lord, who is it?" 26 Jesus answered, "It is he to whom I shall give this morsel when I have dipped it." So when he had dipped the morsel, he gave it to Judas, the son of Simon Iscariot. 27 Then after the morsel, Satan entered into him. Jesus said to him, "What you are going to do, do quickly." 28 Now no one at the table knew why he said this to him. 29 Some thought that, because Judas had the money box, Jesus was telling him, "Buy what we need for the feast"; or, that he should give something to the poor. 30 So, after receiving the morsel, he immediately went out; and it was night. (John 13:23-30)In my view, the recounting of the "beckoning" gesture of Peter is highly suggestive of eye-witnesse testimony. Moreover, it is hard to imagine that the description of the apostles' assumptions regarding Judas' activity at the Last Supper was meant to be read in a way that did not involve recognition of the author's presence in the Upper Room.
Added details
There are stories in the Fourth Gospel which appear in the Synoptics—but there is also the appearance of added details, which simply cannot be explained away as theological symbolism.
- Jesus multiplied five barley loaves (John 6:9)
- In the account of Jesus walking on the water John includes a mention of the distance rowed by the disciples across the Sea of Galilee ("twenty five or thirty stadia," John 6:19)
- In the account of the anointing at Bethany, the odor of the woman's anointing filled the house (John 12:3).
- The reaction of the soldiers in the garden to his statement, "I AM" (John 18:6)
- The weight of spices brought to Jesus' tomb as about a hundred pounds (John 19:39).
- There were also the six stone jars at the wedding in Cana (John 2:9).
- In John 21, there is the number of fish caught (153) and the distance the boat was from the land (about a hundred yards), on the occasion of the post-resurrection appearance of Jesus to his disciples (21:8, 11).
- In addition, we find some inside information about the reactions of the disciples (e.g. 2:11 f.; 4:27; 6:19; 12:16; 13:22 f.) and of the Lord himself (cf. 2:11, 24; 6:15, 61; 13:1).
Familiarity with Jewish Beliefs and Palestinian Geography
The author has a remarkable knowledge of Jewish religious beliefs and attention to cultic concerns:
- Attention to details regarding elements relating to purification rites (John 2:6).
- The likely allusion to the libation and illumination ritual at the Feast of Tabernacles (John 7:37; John 8:12).
- Pollution concerns prior to eating the Passover (John 18:28; John 19:31–42).
- The laws concerning the sabbath (John 5:10; John 7:2 1–23; John 9:14 ff.)
- Ideas of relating to hereditary sin (John 9:2).
- Knowledge of two Bethanys (John 1:28; John 12:1)
- Awareness of Aenon near Salim (John 3:23)
- Attention to Cana in Galilee (John 2:1; John 4:46; John 21:2)
- "Tiberias" as an alternative name for the Sea of Galilee (John 6:1; John 21:1)
- Sychar near Shechem (John 4:5)
- Mt. Gerizim's location near a well (John 4:21)
- Ephraim near the wilderness (John 11:54)
- The mention of the pool of Siloam (John 9:7).
The "Beloved Disciple" and the Inner Circle.
An an important passage in determining authorship comes at the end of the Gospel:
Peter turned and saw following them the disciple whom Jesus loved, who had lain close to his breast at the supper and had said, "Lord, who is it that is going to betray you?" 21 When Peter saw him, he said to Jesus, "Lord, what about this man?"… 24 This is the disciple who is bearing witness to these things, and who has written these things; and we know that his testimony is true. (John 21:20-24)Of course, different scholars have put forth different theories. One line of thought has pointed to the rich young ruler in Mark's Gospel, of whom it is said that Jesus "loved him" (Mark 10:21). Another has suggested that the author is Lazarus (=John 11:3: "he whom you love").
Yet, it is clear that the author is most likely one of the seven mentioned in chapter 21.
"After this Jesus revealed himself again to the disciples by the Sea of Tiberi-as; and he revealed himself in this way. 2 Simon Peter, Thomas called the Twin, Nathana-el of Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two others of his disciples were together." (John 21:1-2)From this list, it would make most sense to suppose that the "beloved disciple"--the author of the Gospel--is one of the sons of Zebedee or one of the two other disciples.
The Beloved Disciple's Association with Peter
It is interesting to note that, with one exception (John 19:26-27), this disciple is always associated with Peter (in addition to below, see John 13:23-30 above).
An example of this is found in John 20:1-10.
Now on the first day of the week Mary Magdalene came to the tomb early, while it was still dark, and saw that the stone had been taken away from the tomb. 2 So she ran, and went to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one whom Jesus loved, and said to them, "They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we do not know where they have laid him." 3 Peter then came out with the other disciple, and they went toward the tomb. 4 They both ran, but the other disciple outran Peter and reached the tomb first; 5 and stooping to look in, he saw the linen cloths lying there, but he did not go in. 6 Then Simon Peter came, following him, and went into the tomb; he saw the linen cloths lying, 7 and the napkin, which had been on his head, not lying with the linen cloths but rolled up in a place by itself. 8 Then the other disciple, who reached the tomb first, also went in, and he saw and believed; 9 for as yet they did not know the scripture, that he must rise from the dead. 10 Then the disciples went back to their homes. (John 20:1-10)In the Synoptic Gospels it seems clear that Peter along with James and John make up a kind of "inner circle". In addition to the Transfiguration, where Jesus takes these three up the mountain (cf. Matt 17:1//Mark 9:2//Luke 9:28), we could mention other passages.
- While he was still speaking, there came from the ruler's house some who said, "Your daughter is dead. Why trouble the Teacher any further?" 36 But ignoring what they said, Jesus said to the ruler of the synagogue, "Do not fear, only believe." 37 And he allowed no one to follow him except Peter and James and John the brother of James… (Mark 5:35-43)
- And they went to a place which was called Gethsemane; and he said to his disciples, "Sit here, while I pray." 33 And he took with him Peter and James and John, and began to be greatly distressed and troubled. (Mark 13:32-33)
Indeed, from the Synoptic tradition is appears that Jesus gave Peter, James and John special attention. It would be natural to expect that the Fourth Gospel's "Beloved Disciple," who has a special relationship with Jesus, is likely one of these three.
Now, it has been noted that the "Beloved Disciple" is virtually always associated with Peter. In connection with this should also be noticed that Luke seems to frequently associate Peter and John.
- When came the day of Unleavened Bread, on which the passover lamb had to be sacrificed. 8 So Jesus sent Peter and John, saying, "Go and prepare the passover for us, that we may eat it." (Luke 22:7-13)
- Now Peter and John were going up to the temple at the hour of prayer, the ninth hour. (Acts 3:1)
- Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated, common men, they wondered; and they recognized that they had been with Jesus. 14 But seeing the man that had been healed standing beside them, they had nothing to say in opposition. 19 But Peter and John answered them, "Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you rather than to God, you must judge; 20 for we cannot but speak of what we have seen and heard." (Acts 4:13, 19).
- Now when the apostles at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent to them Peter and John… (Acts 8:14).
In conclusion, I want to say that, at first blush, it would seem that the "academically responsible" approach would be to remain noncommittal about Johannine authorship. However, I'm coming to the conclusion that the opposite is true. Hedging on Johannine authorship seems to betray an unwillingness to acknowledge the coherence of the early testimony with the internal evidence.
One wonders if such reluctance is motivated by other concerns. Clearly, asserting that someone like the rich young ruler is the author of the Fourth Gospel seems to stretch the limits of credulity. Rather, it would seem the unanimous patristic witness was reliable when it held that the Gospel the manuscripts all call "The Gospel According to John" was written by, well... er, John.
Now, admittedly, a major issue here is the question of the authenticity of chapter 21, that is, the question of whether or not this was originally part of the Gospel or whether it constitutes a later addition.
That's for a follow-up post (coming later today).


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Latest posts by Scott Mayer (see all)
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Today, JustAnswer is localized in five countries with partner sites for the UK, Germany, Spain, Japan, and Mexico. But it was Germany where we first expanded outside of the United States. Lorenz, a Tech Expert for both the U.S. and Germany sites, understands what it takes to work with customers from different backgrounds, with different expectations, and in different languages.
We asked Lorenz to share his background, experience working with different customers, and best practices for the Expert community.
JustAnswer: Thanks for chatting with us today! Tell us a little bit about yourself.
Lorenz: I am originally from East Germany. As far back as I can remember, I've always had a strong curiosity for technology and consider myself to be a 'hands-on' guy. I taught myself how to build computer systems like the ZX Spectrum in the 80's, Intel 286er in the 90's, and all sorts of systems today. Outside of JustAnswer, I work with small businesses to set up and manage their computer networks and devices.
The other big part of my life is music. I've been an audio mastering engineer since 2003 and I run my own business (www.xarcmastering.com). And when I can, I also DJ at events throughout Berlin and Vienna.
JustAnswer: You are quite a busy man.
Lorenz: I honestly cannot think of a single day in the last 20 years where I was bored. There is always something to be done or new to learn. I am rather a workaholic. I do try to take some time off but that "time off" often leads me back to music.
And before I forget, I've also worked for a German TV station from 1998 to 2003 as a video cutter/director for the daily news show.
JustAnswer: You have a lot of experience helping customers from both the U.S. and Germany. What are some of the differences you've noticed between American and German customers?
Lorenz: I work well with both types of customers but there is a big difference between the two. With German customers, I could schedule a secure remote assistance session hours or sometimes days in advance. American customers, on the other hand, usually want it all to be done right away and can get upset if they don't hear back within minutes.
Another difference is that the question volume on the U.S. site is much higher than it is on the .DE site. I try my best to help as many customers as I can but that's hard to do on the U.S. site.
JustAnswer: Speaking of premium services, does Secure Remote Assistance allow you to better help customers with their computer issues?
Lorenz: I think secure remote assistance is the best way to solve computer issues. Most customers in the Computer category are not very tech-savvy and you can easily go in circles trying to explain how to troubleshoot something in Q&A. In my experience, customers start to get frustrated pretty quickly when that happens. By using secure remote assistance, I can quickly troubleshoot the issues and I often find other issues, outside of the original question, that I fix for them.
JustAnswer: Tech is more susceptible to bad news questions than most categories so as a Tech Expert, do you have any advice for Experts in any category in delivering bad news?
Lorenz: Customers don't want to get stuck with an answer that shows no way out. I would never give an answer where I can't show a 'way out.' For example, if a device is seriously broken and can't be fixed online, I would tell the customer what to expect, look for some local repair shops, give an estimate of the cost, find any available coupons, and even send driving directions. I think this same approach can be applied to questions in any category. There is always a solution and by taking the extra step, you are showing that you really want to make the customer happy. This is what it comes down to in the end, because happy customers are returning customers.
We want to thank Lorenz for sharing his story with us. If you'd like to read more Expert stories, click here.


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Abu Abdullah
Abu Abdullah, MD, MPH, PhD, FFPH is a Research Professor of Global Health, Duke University and Professor of Global Health, Duke Kunshan University. He is a public health physician and behavioral scientist with expertise in epidemiological, behavioral and health services research. He is a Fellow of the Faculty of Public Health (FFPH) at the UK Royal College of Physicians, a Fellow of the Hong Kong College of Community Medicine (FHKCCM) and a Fellow of the Hong Kong Academy Medicine (FHKAM).
Abdullah's research interests include prevention and control of chronic non-communicable diseases in low- and middle-income countries by addressing major risk factors such as tobacco use, poor diet and physical inactivity, and by improving adherence to treatment; health services research among the underserved in the United States and in developing countries; and global health and development. His research also focuses on the use of information and communication technology to promote global health research and training. Professor Abdullah teaches in the Duke Kunshan Unversity Master of Science in Global Health program.
Abdullah has written several book chapters and has about 90 peer-reviewed publications covering several emerging aspects of public health. Periodically, he provides consultancy services on health improvement, global health research and public health policy initiatives to international organizations and governments agencies.


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Series: Bodyguard
Author: Cindy Gerard
Read copy: eBook
Published: April 1, 2007
Publisher: St. Martin's Press
The daughter of a wealthy businessman, Jillian Kincaid grew up with bodyguards shadowing her every move - and she hated it. Now a successful journalist and TV anchorwoman, she refuses to let another hired thug follow her around. Not even when she begins to receive terrifying death threats. Not even when the bodyguard is the darkly handsome Nolan Garrett...
Trained in Special Ops, Nolan Garrett has been hired by Jillian's father to keep her out of danger. But it's clear from the start that Jillian isn't going to make his job easy. Far from the spoiled princess he expected, Jillian is tough, independent, sexy and fighting him every step of the way.
My rating:
After four sweet, "uncomplicated" contemporaries without a single dead body I needed something to get me back on track with my second-favorite genre. Judging from the reviews, I thought I found the perfect author and series to do the job. Unfortunately it wasn't meant to be.
This book suffers severely from three major book illnesses - firstbookinaseriesitis, annoyingheroineitis and annoyinheroitis.
While the first one could be ignored, because I was intrigued by the "world-building" and the staff and (future) going-ons at E.D.E.N Inc., the other two were a bit too much to overcome.
At first it was the heroine that went on my nerves with her childish tantrum-throwing behavior when she didn't get what she wanted, her denial, her general attitude. Then, just as she finally became a worthy heroine, it's the hero that does the annoy-fest. I love me a brooding guy as much as the next girl, but Nolan went overboard with his poor-peasant-me 'tude. Sure, he had some issues, sure, he was entitled to a good guilt-trip, but enough's enough.
The only redeeming quality—and I'm not talking about the ending—was the mystery. I thought I had it all figured out, rolled my eyes at Nolan for barking up the wrong tree, and then realized, though I wasn't barking up the same one as him, I too was wrong.
The downside of that? No one could've been right, because we were given no clues as to the real villain's identity. It came straight out of the left field.
Though my expectations weren't that high, I can safely say this was a bit of a letdown.
3 stars, bitchslappable heroine/hero, bodyguard/military/merc/gov/cop/spy, Cindy Gerard, contemporary, suspense/mystery/adventure/thriller


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Issue 47, volume 5
01 of 20A helicopter lands in territory controlled by the guerilla group Farc
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