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Updated 5:25 p.m. | After House Majority Leader Eric Cantor's stunning primary loss in Virginia Tuesday night, national GOP operatives are barreling through the five stages of grief: Denial, anger, and now bargaining — looking for answers on his out-of-the-blue political death.
Their fingers are, in part, pointed directly at McLaughlin & Associates, the Republican polling firm behind the wildly incorrect survey on Cantor's race. In his poll conducted at the end of May, Cantor had a 34-point lead over college professor David Brat.
Two weeks later, Cantor faced a 12-point drubbing.
Republican operatives were hesitant to criticize McLaughlin & Associates on the record. But privately, they pointed to the firm's well-documented track record.
One Republican campaign aide said they have cautioned candidates to take a second look if they want to hire McLaughlin & Associates for their bids — and will continue to warn them following Cantor's loss.
"[I will tell them], 'You should take a real look at what happened last night and reassess your team going forward,' " said the aide, who was granted anonymity to speak candidly.
John McLaughlin, president and partner at McLaughlin & Associates, did not immediately return a request for comment. But he has told reporters that Democrats meddled in the primary, which was partially to blame for the numbers being off in Virginia's 7th District.
Also that year, the firm had surveys that showed former Sen. George Allen, R-Va., leading now-Sen. Tim Kaine, D-Va., 47 percent to 44 percent, in October. Kaine went on to defeat Allen, 53 percent to 47 percent.
In 2012, Roll Call's Shop Talk column declared McLaughlin & Associates one of the consultant "losers" of the cycle. But it wasn't the only GOP polling firm to take a hit that year, and part of the issue appeared to be an incorrect judgment of what the electorate would look like.
McLaughlin & Associates has done polling for a number of candidates and members of Congress. It took in more than $8 million in business for Republicans in the 2012 and 2014 cycles — including the Republican National Committee and Cantor's Young Guns group, according to data compiled by CQ Roll Call's Political Moneyline. Several current members and some candidates have hired McLaughlin .
Most notably, GOP Rep. Jack Kingston has hired the firm for his Senate bid in Georgia this cycle. Kingston's campaign released an internal poll conducted by McLaughlin earlier this week , and the congressman's aides said they are confident in the numbers and have no plans to switch up their team.
"You know, I think that every race is different, and you can't really apply what happens in one race to another," said Chris Crawford, a spokesman for Kingston's campaign. "We are confident in our team."
But Kingston's runoff opponent, businessman David Perdue, sent a Wednesday missive pointing to Kingston's internal pre-primary polling from McLaughlin & Associates as reason to doubt Kingston's lead.
Other Republican operatives say that signing new clients will be a challenge for the firm — whether campaigns are warned about their track record or not.
"[You] don't need to blacklist them," one senior Republican strategist said. "They've backlisted themselves."
But least one client said on Wednesday that he has no plans to fire McLaughlin in the immediate future.


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Criticism, interpretation, etc
|Named Person:
|W H Hutchinson; Eugene Manlove Rhodes; Eugene Manlove Rhodes; Eve Ball; S Omar Barker; Lawrence Clark Powell; May Davison Rhodes; Eve Ball; S Omar Barker; W H Hutchinson; Lawrence Clark Powell; Eugene Manlove Rhodes; May Davison Rhodes
|Document Type:
|Archival Material
|All Authors / Contributors:
W H Hutchinson; Eve Ball; S Omar Barker; May Davison Rhodes; Lawrence Clark Powell
|OCLC Number:
|11.25 linear ft.
|Other Titles:
|Rio Grande Historical Collections.
|More information:
The W.H. Hutchinson papers span the years 1902-1989. The bulk of the materials date between 1952-1985. The correspondence contains letters pertaining to Hutchinson's writings about Eugene Manlove Rhodes and the writing of Rhodes. It is of both personal and professional nature, including publishers, authors, critics and friends. There is material on copyright and royalty issues pertaining to the properties of the literary estate of Eugene Manlove Rhodes and its management. Of note within the series of correspondence with New Mexico State University are transcripts of taped interviews with former cowboys who worked with Rhodes, first recorded in 1964. There are also reviews of books included among the series. Correspondents in this series include May Davison Rhodes, Eve Ball, S. Omar Barker, David Townsend, Bula Charles, Paul Rader, Eugene Cunningham, Harry Carey, and Lawrence Clark Powell. Included in the collection are Hutchinson's subject files on the life and career of Eugene Manlove Rhodes, composed of clippings, notes, copies of Rhodes' writings, and correspondence related to Hutchinson's research on Rhodes. Some folders in this series contain notes relating to the characters in Rhodes' works who were based on living persons in southern New Mexico in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Also included are various published materials, including bookseller catalogs, monographs, articles, and reprints. Unpublished materials include manuscripts, speeches, drafts, and typescripts from Hutchinson and other authors regarding Eugene Manlove Rhodes and Western United States literature. There is also hand-drawn art and photographs associated with Eugene Manlove Rhodes publications and related publications. Some material is annotated by Hutchinson.
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Related Subjects:(16)
- Hutchinson, W. H. -- (William Henry), -- 1910-1990 -- Archives.
- Rhodes, Eugene Manlove, -- 1869-1934.
- Rhodes, Eugene Manlove, -- 1869-1934 -- Criticism and interpretation.
- Ball, Eve.
- Barker, S. Omar -- (Squire Omar), -- 1894-1985.
- Powell, Lawrence Clark, -- 1906-2001.
- Rhodes, May Davison.
- Hutchinson, W. H. -- (William Henry), -- 1910-1990.
- Authors, American -- New Mexico -- 20th century -- History -- Sources.
- Authors, American -- Tularosa Valley (N.M. and Tex.) -- 20th century -- History -- Sources.
- American literature -- West (U.S.) -- 20th century -- History -- Sources.
- American literature.
- Authors, American.
- New Mexico.
- United States -- Tularosa Valley.
- West United States.

subset: commoncrawl


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Yang Ylang - Salt Flower Orchid
The Manala fragrance diffuser bears the name of an Ndebele chief. Its rafia cover is hand crocheted in a mixture of multicoloured stripes with a beige and black pattern reminiscent of house roofs. This decorative object creates a joyous, colourful decorative effect.19 cm | 500 ml
Its light oral aroma is reminiscent of the scent of suntan oil that heralds the holiday season.
Put all the sticks in the lodge and let the fragrance diffusion happen. Revert the sticks if you wish to have a more intense perfume diffusion.
The shipping cost and time of delivery depend on your order's destination. It will be calculated before payment and will be specified in the order details. Delivery will take between 3 to 8 business days.
Belgium, France (except DOM-TOM and Corsica), Germany, Luxembourg, The Netherlands
Shipping charges : 7,5€ / £7.5
Free shipping above : 100€ / £100
Austria, Czech republic, Denmark, Estonia, Hungary, Irland, Italy (Sardinia and Sicily included), Latvia, Lithuania, Monaco, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, United Kingdom
Shipping charges : 12€ / £12
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Bulgaria, Croatia, Finland, Greece, Romania
Shipping charges : 18€ / £18
Free shipping above : 200€ / £200
For delivery to the islands or for more information, please contact our customer service.


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Shortlist Announced
Following a record number of entries, The Shooting Stars of the North East's contact centre industry are unveiled as the shortlist is announced! This year's competition was tougher than ever so to reach the shortlist is a fantastic achievement, well done and good luck to all during the judging process!
Contact Centre Advisor of the Year - sponsored by Go North East
Fiona Embleton – Sage UK Ltd
Amy Wemyss – Utilitywise PLC
Danny O'Reagan – Atom Bank
Ryan Adie – Lead the Way UK Ltd
Multi-Channel Advisor of the Year
Kayleigh Milner - Atom Bank
Philip Key - Atom Bank
Danny O'Reagan - Atom Bank
Craig Donnison - Sage
Andy Marshall - Atom Bank
Jack Collier - Virgin Trains East Coast
Customer Experience Champion
Lucy Hogg – Sage UK Ltd
Arran Whitaker - AXA
Alan Rodmell - Sage UK Ltd
Devinder Singh – Firstsource Solutions Ltd
Sales Star - sponsored by EC Outsourcing
Karen Gray – Virgin Trains East Coast
Andrew Chadkirk – Choice Future Planning
Anthony Hodgson – Sage UK Ltd
Mark Ferguson – Lead the Way UK Ltd
Inspirational Leader - Sponsored by Santander
Gillian Beattie – Lead the Way UK Ltd
Ben Evans – Atom Bank
Jonny Auton – Firstsource Solutions Ltd
Sam Oakley – Sage UK Ltd
Recruitment Champion
Firstsource HR Team Middlesbrough – Firstsource Solutions Ltd
Resource Team – Atom Bank
People Development Heroes
New acquisition sales coaches – Sage UK Ltd
Talent development team - BGL
Development academy team - AXA
GEAR programme - Insurethebox
Contact Centre Dream Team
Resource Team - Sage UK Ltd
Digital Knowledge Team – Sage UK Ltd
Social Engagement Team – Barclaycard
Customer Support Leadership Team – Atom Bank
Teesside Learning Team - Barclaycard
Outstanding Contribution to Community
Utility Alliance
MI Community Team – BGL Group
Charity & Community Team – Santander
Newcastle Community Team – Tesco Bank
NE Contact Centre Under 50 Seats - Sponsored by Make It Sunderland
LTW Leads
Customer Support Team – Atom Bank
Bereavement Assist – Santander
Choice Future Planning
NE Contact Centre Under 250 Seats - Sponsored by greenbean by NRG
EC Outsourcing
Firstsource Solutions Middlesbrough
Customer Service Op – Northern Powergrid
Spark Response Contact Centre
Banking Assist Team Newcastle – Tesco
NE Contact Centre Over 250 seats - Sponsored by greenbean by NRG
Utility Alliance
BGL Customer Services
Echo U
Congratulations to all of our shortlisted nominees!! Tickets for the event are on a first come, first served basis, so don't forget to book your tickets early, to avoid disappointment!!
To book your tickets please contact email@example.com.


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I have been to enough college campuses to know if you are 30 or younger this climate issue is not a debate. It's a value. These young people grew up with recycling and a sensitivity to the environment — and the world will be better off for it... You can have a genuine debate about the science of climate change, but when you say that those who believe it are buying a hoax and are wacky people you are putting at risk your party's future with younger people.
Monday, March 1, 2010
it's a value
lindsay graham thinks the gop is losing younger voters over climate change:
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Tips for Regaining Your Sense of Safety and TrustThe trauma of being raped or sexually assaulted can be shattering, leaving you feeling scared, ashamed, and alone or plagued by nightmares, flashbacks, and other unpleasant memories. But no matter how bad you feel right now, it's important to remember that you weren't to blame for what happened and you can regain your sense of safety and trust. Recovering from sexual trauma takes time, and the healing process can be painful. But with the right strategies and support, you can move past the trauma, rebuild your sense of control and self-worth, and even come out the other side feeling stronger and more resilient.
Sexual violence is shockingly common in our society. According to the CDC, nearly 1 in 5 women in the U.S. are raped or sexually assaulted at some point in their lives, often by someone they know and trust.
The impact of sexual violence goes far beyond any physical injuries. When you've been raped, the world doesn't feel like a safe place anymore. You no longer trust others. You don't even trust yourself. You may question your judgment, your self-worth, and even your sanity. You may blame yourself for what happened or believe you're "dirty" or "damaged goods." Relationships feel dangerous, intimacy impossible. And on top of that, you may—like many rape survivors—struggle with PTSD, anxiety, and depression.
It's important to remember that what you're experiencing is a normal reaction to trauma. Your feelings of helplessness, shame, defectiveness, and self-blame are symptoms, not reality. Dispelling the toxic victim-blaming myths about sexual violence can help you start healing.
|Myths and facts about rape and sexual assault
|Myth: You can spot a rapist by the way he looks or acts.
Fact: There's no surefire way to identify a rapist. Many appear completely normal, friendly, charming, and non-threatening.
|Myth: If you didn't fight back, you must not have thought it was that bad.
Fact: During a sexual assault, it's extremely common to freeze. Your brain and body shuts down in shock, making it difficult to move, speak, or think.
|Myth: Women who are raped "ask for it" by the way they dress or act.
Fact: Rape is a crime of opportunity. Studies show that rapists choose victims based on their vulnerability, not on how sexy they appear or how flirtatious they are.
|Myth: Date rape is often a misunderstanding.
Fact: Date rapists often defend themselves by claiming the assault was a drunken mistake or miscommunication. But research shows that the vast majority of date rapists are repeat offenders. These men target vulnerable women and often ply them with alcohol in order to rape them.
|Myth: It's not rape if you've had sex with the person before.
Fact: Just because you've previously consented to sex with someone doesn't give them perpetual rights to your body. If your spouse, boyfriend, or lover forces sex against your will, it's rape.
Healing after rape step 1: Reframe what happened to you
It can be extraordinarily difficult to admit that you were raped or sexually assaulted. There's a stigma attached. It can make you feel dirty and weak. You may also be afraid of how others will react. Will they judge you? Look at you differently? It seems easier to downplay what happened or keep it a secret. But when you stay silent, you deny yourself help and reinforce your victimhood.
Reach out to someone you trust
It's common to think that if you don't talk about your rape, it didn't really happen. But you can't heal when you're avoiding the truth. And hiding only adds to feelings of shame. As scary as it is to open up, it's what will set you free. However, it's important to be selective about who you tell, especially at first. Your best bet is someone who will be supportive, empathetic, and calm. If you don't have someone you trust, talk to a therapist or call a rape crisis hotline (see Resources section below for links).
Challenge your sense of helplessness and isolation
Trauma leaves you feeling powerless and vulnerable. It's important to remind yourself that you have strengths and coping skills that can get you through tough times. One of the best ways to reclaim your sense of power is by helping others: volunteer your time, give blood, reach out to a friend in need, or donate to your favorite charity.
You may also want to consider joining a support group for other rape or sexual abuse survivors. Support groups can help you feel less isolated and alone. They also provide invaluable information on how to cope with symptoms and work towards recovery. If you can't find a support group in your area, look for an online group.
Assign responsibility where it belongs: on the rapist
Even if you intellectually understand that you're not to blame for the rape, you may still struggle with feelings of guilt and shame. But as you acknowledge the truth of what happened, it will be easier to fully accept that you are not responsible. You did not bring the assault on yourself and you have nothing to be ashamed about.
If you're feeling guilty or ashamed because…
- You didn't stop the assault from happening: After the fact, it's easy to second guess what you did or didn't do. But when you're in the midst of an assault, your brain and body are in shock. You can't think clearly. Many people say they feel "frozen." Don't judge yourself for this natural reaction to trauma. You did the best you could under extreme circumstances. If you could have stopped the assault, you would have.
- You trusted someone you "shouldn't" have. One of the most difficult things to deal with following an assault by someone you know is the violation of trust. It's natural to start questioning yourself and wondering if you missed warning signs. Just remember that your attacker is the only one to blame. Don't beat yourself up for assuming that your attacker was a decent human being. Your attacker is the one who should feel guilty and ashamed, not you.
- You were drunk or dressed a certain way… You may be wondering if you are somehow to blame because of the way you were dressed or because you were drunk and not cautious enough. But it's important to remember that regardless of the circumstances, the only one who is responsible for the assault is the perpetrator. You did not ask for it or deserve what happened to you.
Step 2: Prepare for flashbacks and upsetting memories
When we go through something stressful, our body temporarily goes into "fight-or-flight" mode. When the threat has passed, our body calms down. But traumatic experiences such as rape can cause our nervous systems to become stuck in a state of high alert. We're hyper sensitive to the smallest of stimuli. This is the case for many rape survivors. Flashbacks, nightmares, and intrusive memories are extremely common, especially in the first few months following the assault. For those who go on to develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), they can last much longer.
To prevent the stress of flashbacks and upsetting memories:
Try to anticipate and prepare for triggers. Common triggers include anniversary dates; people or places associated with the rape; and certain sights, sounds, or smells. If you are aware of what triggers may cause an upsetting reaction, you'll be in a better position to understand what's happening and take steps to calm down.
Pay attention to your body's danger signals. Your body and emotions give you clues when you're starting to feel stressed and unsafe. These clues include feeling tense, holding your breath, racing thoughts, shortness of breath, hot flashes, dizziness, and nausea.
Take immediate steps to self-soothe. When you notice any of the above symptoms, it's important to quickly act to calm yourself down before they spiral out of control. One of the quickest and most effective ways to calm anxiety and panic is to slow down your breathing.
Soothe panic with this simple breathing exercise
- Sit or stand comfortably with your back straight. Put one hand on your chest and the other on your stomach.
- Take a slow breath in through your nose, counting to four. The hand on your stomach should rise. The hand on your chest should move very little.
- Hold your breath for a count of seven.
- Exhale through your mouth to a count of eight, pushing out as much air as you can while contracting your abdominal muscles. The hand on your stomach should move in as you exhale, but your other hand should move very little.
- Inhale again, repeating the cycle until you feel relaxed and centered.
Tips for dealing with flashbacks
It's not always possible to prevent flashbacks. But if you find yourself losing touch with the present and feeling like the assault is happening all over again, there are things you can do.
Accept and reassure yourself that this is a flashback, not reality. The traumatic event is over and you survived. Here's a simple script that can help: "I am feeling [panicked, frightened, overwhelmed, etc.] because I am remembering [traumatic event], but as I look around I can see that [traumatic event] isn't happening right now and I'm not actually in danger."
Ground yourself in the present. Grounding techniques help you direct your attention away from the flashback and back to your present environment. Some examples include tapping or touching your arms or describing your actual environment and what you see when look around (for example, name the place where you are, the current date, and 3 things you see when you look around).
Step 3: Reconnect to your body and feelings
Since your nervous system is in a hypersensitive state following a rape or assault, you may start doing things to numb yourself or avoid any associations with the trauma. But you can't selectively numb. When you shut down the unpleasant sensations, you also shut down your self-awareness and capacity for joy. You end up disconnected both emotionally and physically—existing, but not fully living.
Signs that you're avoiding and numbing in unhelpful ways:
- Feeling physically shut down. You don't feel bodily sensations like you used to (you might even have trouble differentiating between pleasure and pain).
- Feeling separate from your body or surroundings (you may feel like you're watching yourself or the situation you're in, rather than participating in it).
- Having trouble concentrating and remembering things.
- Using stimulants, risky activities, or physical pain to feel alive and counteract the empty feeling inside of you.
- Compulsively using drugs or alcohol.
- Escaping through fantasies, daydreams, or excessive TV, video games, etc.
- Feeling detached from the world, the people in your life, and the activities you used to enjoy.
To recover after rape, you need to reconnect to your body and feelings
It's frightening to get back in touch with your body and feelings following a sexual trauma. In many ways, rape makes your body the enemy, something that's been violated and contaminated—something you may hate or want to ignore. It's also scary to face the intense feelings associated with the assault. But while the process of reconnecting may feel threatening, it's not actually dangerous. Feelings, while powerful, are not reality. They won't hurt you or drive you insane. The true danger to your physical and mental health comes from avoiding them. Once you're back in touch with your body and feelings, you will feel more safe, confident, and powerful.
Here are some techniques that can help you reconnect with your body and the way you feel:
Rhythmic movement. Rhythm can be very healing. It helps us relax and regain a sense of control over our bodies. Anything that combines rhythm and movement will work: dancing, drumming, marching. You can even incorporate it into your walking or running routine by concentrating on the back and forth movements of your arms and legs.
Mindfulness meditation. Mindfulness meditation can be practiced anywhere, even while you are walking or eating. Simply focus on what you're feeling in the present movement—including any bodily sensations and emotions. The goal is to observe without judgement.
Yoga, Tai Chi, and Qigong. These activities combine body awareness with relaxing, focused movement and can help relieve symptoms of PTSD and trauma.
Massage. After rape, you may feel uncomfortable with human touch. But touching and being touched is an important way we give and receive affection and comfort. You can begin to reopen yourself to human contact through massage therapy.
A powerful program for reconnecting to your feelings and physical sensations
HelpGuide offers a free, online program that can help you recover after rape. Our Emotional Intelligence Toolkit teaches you how to reconnect to uncomfortable or frightening emotions without becoming overwhelmed. It also teaches you techniques for quickly calming yourself down when things start to get too intense. The toolkit can be used in conjunction with therapy, or on its own. Over time, it can make a huge difference in your ability to manage stress, balance your moods and emotions, and take back control of your life.
Step 4: Stay connected and nurture yourself
Healing from sexual trauma is a gradual, ongoing process. It doesn't happen overnight, nor do the memories of the trauma ever disappear completely. This can make life seem difficult at times. But there are many things you can do to cope with residual symptoms and reduce your anxiety and fear.
Stay connected to family and friends
It's common to feel isolated and disconnected from others following a sexual assault. You may be tempted to withdraw from social activities and your loved ones. But it's important to stay connected to life and the people who care about you. Support from other people is vital to your recovery. But remember that support doesn't mean you always have to talk or dwell on what happened. Having fun and laughing with people who care about you can be equally healing.
Participate in social activities, even if you don't feel like it. Do "normal" things with other people, things that have nothing to do with the sexual trauma.
Reconnect with old friends. If you've retreated from relationships that were once important to you, make the effort to reconnect.
Make new friends. If you live alone or far from family and friends, try to reach out and make new friends. Take a class or join a club to meet people with similar interests, connect to an alumni association, or reach out to neighbors or work collegues.
Support healing by nurturing yourself
Take time to rest and restore your body's balance. That means taking a break when you're tired and avoiding the temptation to lose yourself by throwing yourself into activities. Avoid doing anything compulsively, including working. If you're having trouble relaxing and letting down your guard, you may benefit from relaxation techniques such as meditation and yoga.
Be smart about media consumption. Avoid watching anything that could trigger bad memories or flashbacks. This includes obvious things such as news reports about sexual violence and sexually explicit TV shows and movies. But you may also want to temporarily avoid anything that's overly stimulating, including social media.
Take care of yourself physically. It's always important to eat right, exercise regularly, and get plenty of sleep—doubly so when you're healing from trauma. Exercise in particular can soothe your traumatized nervous system, relieve stress, and help you feel more powerful and in control of your body.
Avoid alcohol and drugs. Avoid the temptation to self-medicate with alcohol or drugs. Substance use worsens many symptoms of trauma, including emotional numbing, social isolation, anger, and depression. It also interferes with treatment and can add to problems at home and in your relationships.


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About Me
Hello. My name is Ken. I have been discerning the Call for quite a long time, since I was knee-high and my Grandpa took me to Holy Hill. I am particularly discerning a vocation as a Discalced Carmelite Friar. I hope this blog offers some assistance to you in discerning your own vocation. Please visit this blog often and journey with me as we all discover the call that God has given to each us.
My Motto"With zeal have I been zealous for the Lord God of Hosts" - The Carmelite Motto
Prayer to Our Lady of Mount Carmel
"Mary, Beauty of Carmel, just as in the Upper Room, you watched over the origins of the Church, so now the Church's journey is entrusted in a special way to the loving hearts of cloistered nuns. With great confidence in the power of your heavenly intercession, we ask you to watch over and bless all Carmelite Nuns and, in particular, the community that worships Our Lord, Jesus Christ in Denmark, Wisconsin.
Obtain for these Nuns a daily increase of the virtues of faith, hope, and love that will empower them, in prayer, to obtain every blessing from Our Lord Heavenly Father's hands for the good of souls. May their lives of hidden prayer strengthen the Diocese of Green Bay and the entire Church. Through the grace of Christ, draw many young women to enter the Monastery of the Holy Name of Jesus. Holy Mother share with the Nuns of Denmark your love of Jesus' Priesthood. May the Monastery make visible on earth the Heavenly Kingdom which is our life, our sweetness, and our hope. Amen."
- Carmelite Nuns of the Monastery of the Holy Name of Jesus
Prayer For New Carmelite Vocations
"Lord Jesus Christ, You promised that if we agree to pray for anything in Your Name, You will do it for us. Through the powerful intercession of Our Lady of Mount Carmel we ask You for the grace of good vocations. Give us young men and women of faith who are zealous to become Your strong friends and to faithfully serve as friars and nuns in the Discalced Carmelite Order. As You have done in the past, awaken hearts to fervently desire You and to carry on the charism of Carmel – to glorify the Triune God in the company of Your Mother and to be the love at the Heart of Your Church. Amen."
- Discalced Carmelite Friars
Immaculate Heart of Mary Province
1525 Carmel Road, Hubertus, WI 53033
Carmelite Vocation Prayer
"Gracious God,
We thank You for the gift of Carmel.
We ask you to continue to call forth men and women of fearless hearts to the Order of Carmel. May they be like the prophet Elijah, full of zealous love for You.
May Mary, Our Lady of Mount Carmel, be our model that they might say "Yes" to Your invitation to serve You and Your Church.
Inspire them to follow in the footsteps of Jesus, prayerfully working to build Your kingdom of justice and peace.
Faithful God, give them that grace and courage to discern and respond generously to Your call."
- Carmelite Vocation Office (O.Carm)
1600 Webster Street, N.E.
Washington, DC 20017
Moses Prayer"O Father Moses, who in return for thy burning faith and love of God, was Divinely rewarded with the leadership of Israel and care of God's eternal law, obtain for us a lively faith, a bold courage and a steadfast commitment to preserve God's ancient Commandments in our hearts and in our land. Grant, that through our humble efforts, God's Ten Commandments may be more widely known, more deeply understood and more faithfully followed. Amen." - Project Moses
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Tag Archives: novena
54 Day Rosary Novena for Peace in Ukraine
In light of the present Ukrainian crisis, and realizing that there really are no advantageous "human solutions" to the current disturbing situation, I believe it is imperative that we take advantage of our only effectual means of solving this calamity … Continue reading
Novena to St. Teresa of Avila
Hello everybody! As you all know, the Feast of St. Teresa of Avila is coming up on October 15th. St. Teresa is the Foundress – the "Holy Mother" – of the Discalced Carmelite Order. She is a great saint, Mystic … Continue reading
St. Andrew–Pray for Us!
Hello everyone, today is the Feast of St. Andrew the Apostle. I wish I could compose a beautiful post for the feast of such an important saint; however, I have to get ready to serve Holy Mass this evening. So I'm going to … Continue reading
Novena to Our Lady of Mount Carmel
Up here in the "Frozen Tundra Unfrozen" the WiFi is a bit spotty, so posting anything has been a little challenging. Even so, it has been good lesson for me to learn – take what God gives you without complaining. … Continue reading
Novena to the Holy Spirit (Day 9)
Novena to the Holy Spirit Ninth Day The fruits of the Holy Spirit "The gifts of the Holy Spirit perfect the supernatural virtues by enabling us to practice them with greater docility to divine inspiration. As we grow in the … Continue reading
Novena to the Holy Spirit (Day 8)
Novena to the Holy Spirit Eighth Day The Gift of Wisdom "Embodying all the other gifts, as charity embraces all other virtues, Wisdom is the most perfect of the gifts. Of wisdom it is written "all good things came to … Continue reading
Novena to the Holy Spirit (Day 7)
Novena to the Holy Spirit Seventh Day The Gift of Counsel "The gift of Counsel endows the soul with supernatural prudence, enabling it to judge promptly and rightly what must be done, especially in difficult circumstances. Counsel applies the … Continue reading


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From LC Newsline: "Linear collider technology checks LHC lumi"
5 March 2015
Barbara Warmbein
The luminometer was installed in the CMS detector in January. Image: CERN
There's a piece of linear collider detector technology that is getting ready to take real collision data. The linear collider may be at planning stage, but right in the middle of the CMS detector, a luminometer based on work done for the forward region of the ILC's ILD detector is very much a working piece of kit. It will measure the luminosity in CMS, ie the rate of collisions that the LHC produces per second, and the beam-induced background.
The luminometer, part of the beam radiation instrumentation and luminosity (BRIL) project at CMS, consists of the so-called pixel luminosity telescope PLT and another part called BCM1F. It's the BCM1F, a DESY-CERN coproduction, that has its roots in the forward calorimeter. The forward calorimeter is located in a tough area that needs radiation-hard equipment in order to survive. Already several years ago the FCAL collaboration tested several different technologies and settled on diamond sensors. It was actually during one of the test beam periods at CERN that the collaboration for the CMS luminometer was born when the LC FCAL started chatting to CERN experts on beam halo monitoring.
The BCM1F sets itself apart thanks to diamonds and speed. Image: Wolfgang Lohmann, DESY
Radiation-hardness isn't the only thing that sets the BCM1F lumi tool apart: its sensors use diamond crystals that deliver ultra-short signals when a particle passes through. The application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) to amplify the signal, developed and commissioned by a team from AGH-UST Cracow, CERN and DESY (Zeuthen), takes only a few nanoseconds to be back online, making it possible to count particles that pass through at very short intervals. Physics can deduce whether the particle comes from a collision or from beam background based on the time they passed through.
The luminometers were installed in CMS in January. The setup consists of two semi circles with an outside radius of 10 centimetres. They sit at 1,8 metres distance from the interaction point and, once the LHC starts up again, send their information about luminosity and particle count from the beam-induced background to the CMS and LHC control rooms every second.
Meanwhile, over at the linear collider's FCAL, the FCAL collaboration will use the experience acquired in the operation of the CMS luminometers in the LHC's run 2 for the construction of prototypes of forward calorimeters. ASICs experts will get to work on FCAL-specific integrated circuits with the help of funds from the AIDA2020 programme. So in true particle physics cross-fertilisation tradition the technology that started in the linear collider community will give its first performance in the LHC only to to be developed further with the experience gained from that first performance.
The BRIL collaboration. Image: CERN
See the full article here.
Please help promote STEM in your local schools.
The Linear Collider Collaboration is an organisation that brings the two most likely candidates, the Compact Linear Collider Study (CLIC) and the International Liner Collider (ILC), together under one roof. Headed by former LHC Project Manager Lyn Evans, it strives to coordinate the research and development work that is being done for accelerators and detectors around the world and to take the project linear collider to the next step: a decision that it will be built, and where.
Some 2000 scientists – particle physicists, accelerator physicists, engineers – are involved in the ILC or in CLIC, and often in both projects. They work on state-of-the-art detector technologies, new acceleration techniques, the civil engineering aspect of building a straight tunnel of at least 30 kilometres in length, a reliable cost estimate and many more aspects that projects of this scale require. The Linear Collider Collaboration ensures that synergies between the two friendly competitors are used to the maximum.


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This one is for Lets Get Shabby ... this month's theme is white and/or cream with a hint of one other colour. I created the rose trellis out of the left over "rails" from the Collections picket fence chipboard. I have painted it with distress paint and then weaved the pieces together. I then twisted the stems of the roses around the trellis to make it look like a rambling vine. As a finishing touch I added some leaves from the D-lish Scrap store. The papers are Pink Paislee and Crate Paper which have been distressed and machine stitched around the edges. The heart shaped paper doiley is also from the D-lish Scraps store. I have also added the tulle which I gathered at points with more leaves and roses and then stitched to the page. I finished it off with some punched out butterflies with kaiser pearls on them.
Not quite as shabby as I had first envisioned but this is where it told me to stop! hehehe
My second effort for the day is for the Artastic chalenge blog which is run by my friend Shazza. I took inspiration from the colour scheme and since it was a painting I figured that I had to use paint!!
Well that's the efforts from my "selfish" day ... tomorrow it is back to the DT stuff, class prep, kits and the like ..... humph!!


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Hubble Telescope Shows Our Amazing Space Through Tactile Astronomy
Amazing Space is the Formal Education Group of the Space Telescope Science Institute's Office of Public Outreach. They promote the science and majestic beauty of the universe for use in the classroom.
The materials they develop for educators and learners of all ages are accurate, classroom-friendly, visually appealing, and carefully crafted to adhere to accepted educational standards.
By producing and sharing classroom resources based on the Hubble Space Telescope's greatest discoveries, it is the sincere hope that young people will enjoy learning about the universe we inhabit... and perhaps pursue an even greater understanding of it in the future.
Amazing Space has earned accolades for its incisive and creative approach. One of the cool things you'll find on this site is their Tactile Astronomy page.
Tactile Astronomy supports their efforts to bring the wonders of the universe to everyone, regardless of their visual ability. This section of Amazing Space includes "Images of the Month", monthly postings of the latest Hubble images designed to be downloaded and printed on a thermal paper expansion machine, thus allowing the visually impaired to feel what they cannot see. These specially prepared PDFs of Hubble images include text that describes the featured celestial object and what astronomers are learning about it.
In addition, there is a "special projects" section that currently features the limited-edition Tactile Carina Nebula booklet, a 17-by-11–inch color image embossed with lines, slashes, and other markings that correspond to objects within the nebula's fantasy landscape of bubbles, valleys, mountains, and pillars.
Click this link to visit Tactile Astronomy.
Click this link to visit the Amazing Space website: http://amazing-space.stsci.edu.
If you have questions about the tactile Hubble images or the Tactile Astronomy site, please click here to send an e-mail to firstname.lastname@example.com.


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Twenty Minutes in Manhattan
Distributed for Reaktion Books
The walk from my apartment in Greenwich Village to my studio in Tribeca takes about twenty minutes, depending upon the route and whether I stop for a coffee and the Times. Invariably, though, it begins with a trip down the stairs.
And so sets out architecture critic Michael Sorkin on his daily walk from his home in a Manhattan old-law-style tenement building. Sorkin has followed the same path for over fifteen years, a route that has allowed him to observe the startling transformations in New York during this period of great change. Twenty Minutes in Manhattan is his personal, anecdotal account of his casual encounters with the physical space and social dimensions of this unparalleled city.
From the social gathering place of the city stoop to Washington Square Park, Sorkin's walk takes the reader on a wry, humorous journey past local characters, neighborhood stores and bodegas, landmark buildings, and overlooked streets. His perambulations offer him—and the reader—opportunities to not only engage with his surroundings but to consider a wide range of issues that fascinate Sorkin as an architect, urbanist, and New Yorker. Whether he is despairing at street garbage or marveling at elevator etiquette, Twenty Minutes in Manhattan offers a testing ground for his ideas of how the city can be newly imagined and designed, addressing such issues as the crisis of the environment, free expression and public space, historic preservation, and the future of the neighborhood as a concept.
Inspired by Sorkin's close, attentive relationship to his beloved city, Twenty Minutes in Manhattan is in the end a valentine to the idea of the city that ultimately offers a practical set of solutions that are relevant to not only the preservation and improvement of New York but to urban environments everywhere.
- Contents
- Review Quotes
The Stairs
The Stoop
The Block
Washington Square
LaGuardia Place
Canal Street
145 Hudson Street
Alternative Routes
Espri d'Escalier
"This walk through the city shows Michael Sorkin at his witty and knowledgeable best. From the stairs of his small apartment house to the pyramids of Chichen Itza, from Local Law 45 to the motto of the Hanseatic League, Sorkin takes us on a journey through eras and worlds in the space of just 15 blocks. Better to spend 20 minutes with him than 24 hours with a standard tourist guide!"
"I am glad Sorkin doesn't take the subway: this is the most brilliant epitome of Manhattan ever written." – Mike Davis
"Not since the great Jane Jacobs has there been a book this good about the day-to-day life of New York. Sorkin writes like an American Montaigne, riffing freely off his personal experience (sometimes happy, sometimes frustrating) to arrive at general insights about New York and about cities everywhere."
"Sorkin comes from a neighborhood of great urbanists—Lewis Mumford, Jane Jacobs, Grace Paley—and he belongs in their company. A short walk with him through the West Village turns into an adventure. He is one of the smartest and most original people writing about New York and about city life today."
"In his delightful book, Michael Sorkin writes about New York from a flaneur's perspective. Focusing on a 20-minute walk from his apartment to his studio, the author – one of architecture's most consistent and consistently interesting critical voices – meanders through architecture, urbanism, sociology, politics and history . . . Quirky, erudite and occasionally frustrating in its movement between the personal, the political and the physical, every city should have its Michael Sorkin."– Financial Times
"The trove of thumbnail sketches and obscure facts is augmented with fascinating ruminations about the socio-political ins and outs of the business of construction and urban renewal in New York City, the intricate socioeconomic consequences that result, and the ethical ramifications of these undertakings."– James Sclavunos, Times (UK)
"If you want an introduction to what has been said and thought about the city around the world, and also what has been built and unbuilt as a result of all this theorising, this is probably as good a guide as can be had. Follow Sorkin on his walk, and you will certainly be better informed and perhaps a bit wiser as well."– Joseph Rykwert, Architects' Journal
"No one writes better about architecture and urbanism in the United States than Sorkin. He is a tireless campaigner against cliché . . . perhaps his most personal book to date."– Blueprint
Architecture: American Architecture
Travel and Tourism: Travel Writing and Guides
You may purchase this title at these fine bookstores. Outside the USA, see our international sales information.


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A federal court judge issued a preliminary injunction Monday that orders the online DVD-streaming streaming service Zediva to shut down, finding that the service is infringing on Hollywood's rights and that its continuing service threatens the studios' attempt to build a video-on-demand market.
Zediva's service lets users watch recently released DVDs over the internet for $2, by renting out a DVD and a DVD player (installed in Zediva's server rooms) that is controlled by a customer's computer. The service had its
U..S. District Court Judge John Walter issued a preliminary injunction against Zediva on Monday, writing that "As the copyright holders, Plaintiffs have the exclusive right to decide when, where, to whom, and for how much they will authorize transmission of their Copyrighted Works to the public."
Zediva argues that it's more like a traditional video rental store like Blockbuster, which needs no licensing agreement to rent movies, than a video-on-demand service like Netflix, which must sign deals to stream movies to subscribers. Zediva can only rent out DVDs to one customer at a time, and makes no copies of the DVDs.
That, Zediva argued, meant that Zediva wasn't performing the work to the public, just to individuals.
But Judge Walter of the U.S. Federal District Court Central California District made clear which side of the "Is Zediva Legal" argument he was on, interpreting copyright law to mean that any streaming service was just like a movie theater – and needs to have permission of the copyright holder.
In addition, Defendants' transmissions are "to the public" for purposes of the transmission
clause. Customers watching one of Plaintiffs' Copyrighted Works on their computer through Zediva's system are not necessarily watching it in a "public place,""but those customers are nonetheless members of "the public."
Walter's injunction adds Zediva to a long list of technology startups, including Napster, Grokster, ivi.tv, MP3.com, and Seeqpod, among dozens of others, that have been shuttered or ordered shut down due to copyright litigation.
In a statement, Zediva vowed to fight the ruling and said it is working with the MPAA to set a schedule for a shutdown of its service.
Today's ruling represents a setback for the hundreds of thousands of consumers looking for an alternative to Hollywood-controlled online movie services. Zediva intends to appeal, and will keep fighting for consumers' right to watch a DVD they've rented, whether that rental is at the corner store or by mail or over the Internet.
The MPAA's statement from associate general counsel Dan Robbins (.pdf) struck a different note:
Judge Walter's decision is a great victory for the more than two million American men and women whose livelihoods depend on a thriving film and television industry. Judge Walter rejected Zediva's argument that it was "renting" movies to its users, and ruled, by contrast, that Zediva violated the studios' exclusive rights to publicly perform their movies, such as through authorized video-on-demand services.
The parties have to agree on a shutdown plan by August 10, and the suit will continue — though the ruling indicates that Walter is likely to eventually rule for the studios, which are seeking damages both from Zediva and its founder Venkatesh Srinivasan.
The 12-page injunction took issue with nearly every argument Zediva made in its defense, and even went further, arguing that since Zediva's users could occasionally encounter movies that were "out of stock," consumers would be confused about how streaming video services work, potentially ruining the market for Hollywood.
Oddly, Martin also argued that Zediva's service, which charges per movie, could cause "confusion or doubt regarding whether payment is required for access to the Copyrighted Works."
Zediva's options at this point include fighting the suit in court, or appealing the injunction to the Ninth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals.
Photo: A bank of DVD players in Zediva's server farm. Credit: Court filing by Zediva.


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There is a desire by numerous groups and agencies (NENA, APCO, FCC, DHS, DOT to name a few) that, as a nation, we transition as quickly as possible to NextGen 9-1-1 technologies.
Recently, my team and I spent the day here in Palm Beach County with Alan Benway, Executive Director of Product Management for AT&T ESInet and Mike Nelson, VP and Sr Technical Officer for West Safety Services (formerly Intrado). West pioneered the Field of Dreams concept for ESInets- "build it and they will come."
After receiving an in-depth technical dive into the offering, I believe that the West/ AT&T ESInet as a Service (EaaS) offering, rather than a RFP based- build a dedicated system model- will gain tremendous momentum. It simplifies an extremely complex aspect of moving to NG9-1-1. West has other Partners reselling their current two node offering (e.g. Motorola and CenturyLink), but AT&T is investing millions in buildout, adding nodes and aggregation points across the US.
I believe that this partnership will inspire others to provide a similar EaaS product offering. Now, if we can encourage State level funding, we can get some serious traction.
Simply plug in..


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At Learning Paths School, we offer a wide range of activities outside the classroom that encompasses music, art, drama, quizzes, spell bees, expeditions and more. The focus here is to enable the holistic development of our students thereby helping them develop a sense of responsibility.
Disclaimer : Learning Paths School, Mohali is not affiliated and/or associated, directly or indirectly with any other school and/or educational institute using the word 'Learning' as a part of its name. Any solicitation or attempt of such association with Learning Paths School by any party is illegal and should be reported at email@example.com
© Learning Paths School, 2016. All rights reserved.


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It's officially hot. Really hot. We reached our first triple digit temperature yesterday, and, from what I'm hearing, we'll be right back up there today. Which is why you'll be able to find me in the pool. All weekend. I've got no major plans (don't you love those kinds of weekends?) except for crossing things off of my to-do list and partaking in a little SSB (read Molly's post here) while my husband is out of town. This means catching up on all of my mags, getting take-out from here and lots of frozen yogurt. Sounds exciting, doesn't it? Happy Weekend!
For your weekend perusal:
- Island style: Ever since my trip to Harbour Island, I've had a fascination with India Hicks. She's got that whole gypset look that I love. And not just in her closet. Take a peek at her Harbour Island home and you'll see exactly what I'm talking about.
- Speaking of home: Have you checked out Calypso's Maison sample sale? Lots (and lots!) of good steals here. You find rugs for under $100 and some adorable throw pillows that would work for so many different styles.
- Prep for the Fourth: I've told you all before: I love the Fourth of July. It's such a fun holiday – sparklers, fireworks, and all of that red, white and blue! I do love to dress to the theme. For the day, I'm thinking a pair of these star-spangled shorts with my striped tee. For the night-time festivities, I love this navy and white dress paired with some simple sandals and fun accessories.
- Happy hour: With all of the fun festivities going on, we'll need a cocktail (or two). I just discovered this Pinterest-looking site dedicated solely to libations. Plenty of inspiration there!


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Quality Rifle Barrels Since 1962
23122 - 60th Street
Bristol, Wisconsin 53104
Barrel Steels
A Note on Steel
During the manufacturing process, barrel-quality steel is carefully controlled and inspected to
ensure the material structure is correct for rifle barrel use. There are two basic steel options
available: stainless steel and chromium-molybdenum alloy steel. Stainless steels are special,
gun-barrel quality grades of Carpenter or Crucible 416. Our suppliers of chrome-moly steels have
changed as the American steel industry continues to suffer bankruptcies and closures due to
competition from cheap, imported steels. (For more information regarding the impact of the steel
industry crisis on American manufacturing and national security, see "Blood and Iron Pyrite" by
Eric J. Obermeyer in
Chronicles: A Magazine of American Culture
, Vol. 28, No. 4, April 2004, pages
51-53.) This has resulted in a situation where high-quality specialty grades of steel are becoming
harder to obtain, steel prices are going up, and minimum order quantities are now about 10 times
larger. This special quality steel is not imported, and two mills in Europe have turned me down
because small quantities of steel are not worth their efforts. A number of custom barrel-makers
are working together to pool resources in order to have the ability to place combined orders large
enough to meet the quantity threshold. Standard raw chrome-moly blank diameters now will be
1-1/4" and 1-3/8", although this is subject to change with availability from steel suppliers. One of
my former chrome-moly standards, 1-5/16" bar diameter, may be available in remnant quantities
subject to stock on hand.
I am now using a new stainless steel from Western Branch Metals made by Outokumpu -- made in
the USA. It is very good, and I'm told that it is made to be tougher. The people I buy this from are
very interested in making it the best. The normal raw diameter for stainless steel blanks is 1-5/16".
Each basic type of barrel steel has its advantages, depending on the application. Chrome-moly
barrels develop a fine-line erosion pattern in the throat, which I compare to fine gravel in a
stream. With bare bullets, this can cause greater variations in velocity, due to drag exerted on
the bullet in the throat region. This situation may result in an increase in the vertical dispersion
of the shots, which is particularly noticeable at longer ranges. The testing I have performed in my
target rifles leads me to believe that molybdenum disulfide coating on bullets, when properly
applied, has a mitigating effect in this regard. (Each of the several chrome-moly match rifle barrels
in .260 Remington that I have used in conjunction with moly-coated bullets has exceeded 6000
rounds of accurate life.) Also, chrome-moly -- having 40 to 50 points of carbon -- may harden in
the throat area from use. This can cause damage to your chamber reamer if you try to set such a
barrel back. On the other hand, chrome-moly takes more abuse from peening or abrasion, and this
is a big advantage where field use is rough. It also tends to be stronger in cold-weather
environments, such as might be encountered while hunting in Alaska, where the temperature is
often below zero.
Barrel-quality stainless steel is usually identified as type 416R or 416RS, and it has approximately
half the sulfur content of common, warehouse-grade 416. Stainless steel barrels will not harden in
the throat area, which provides a big advantage for target shooters who plan to set their barrels
back when the throats wear. The erosion pattern of stainless steel looks like a dried-up mud
puddle, having large flats with fracture lines. This reduces the drag on the bullet, so there is less
tendency for vertical stringing at long ranges. Sometimes, after a lot of use, a large piece may pop
out from the throat of a stainless steel barrel, causing it to suddenly lose accuracy. Stainless steel
will also scratch or peen easier than chrome-moly barrel steel of comparable hardness. In
applications involving military weapons, this sort of material behavior would present a real
problem, which is why chrome-moly is generally used. Stainless steel also has less ductility than
chrome-moly, particularly when the ambient temperature approaches zero. Thus, a featherweight
stainless steel barrel would not be the best choice for hunting in Alaska. Also, contrary to some
people's notions, stainless steel is not hard to machine; it's actually easier than chrome-moly.
The type of steel used has a significant impact on the price of a barrel, since stainless steel costs
approximately four times more than chrome-moly. In addition to the cost differential associated
with the material in the barrel itself and with the material removed during the manufacturing
process, there are additional costs due to drops resulting form having to purchase bars of certain
lengths, which may not allow for full, end-to-end usage. Furthermore, the relatively high cost of
stainless steel (and the tremendous difficulty of purchasing any barrel-quality steel in smaller
quantities) forces the small manufacturer to tie up substantial amounts of money in inventory.
Nevertheless, the greater cost of stainless steel does not automatically imply that it is a better
material than chrome-moly for a given application.


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This place inspires me to think only in verses, a rare kind of dreamscape where poets are born. A mystery crafted in the clouds by the ancient Incas and eternally anchored to Earth's navel.
Where no ordinary social armor lives, a place where your soul looks you in the eyes, where you let go of old loves and identifies a new one, within.
This is Machu Picchu.
Thank you so much for visiting. I hope you enjoyed the photos and please come visit me on Instagram, Facebook, Bloglovin, and Pinterest


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-This Natural Pine Wood Slice measures between 2.4 inches- 2.8 inches.
-Each little beauty is one of a kind and prints will never be made!
-Square logo on the front to signify it's originality and hand signed and dated on the back.
-Perfect for your Christmas Tree or a cute little Chatchke to adorn any space!
Snowy Sheep Ornament, ORIGINAL liquid acrylic and pen & ink, by Haylee McFarland


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The great thing about flounder is that it's super light and ultra delicate. The perfect guilt free dish for the bride to be. The sun dried tomatoes add tons of deep flavor to an otherwise blah fish. Flounder is to seafood what vanilla is to ice cream, it kind of goes with anything, great for the picky eater- a pretty mellow fish I might say. I love it because it's just what I should be eating in the weeks before my fitting!!
Try my light yet luscious wild flounder with sun dried tomatoes and tell me what all you brides to be out there are doing to look extra fabby on your big day?
Wild Flounder with Sun Dried Tomatoes
1 lb of wild flounder
1 tbsp of extra virgin olive oil
6 sun dried tomatoes packed in olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and Pepper
Preheat oven to 375 degrees
Season fish w/ salt and pepper
Add lemon juice, top with tomatoes
Place fish in oven to cook for 8-11 minutes or until cooked through


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James Rodríguez first made his name at a youth tournament televised on Colombian TV at the age of 12 so it's perhaps no surprise he has taken his chance to send football's money men into meltdown once again. In 2004 a goal straight from a corner sealed a controversial move to Envigado in Medellín, where some of the houses, if not the streets, really were paved with gold.
Fast forward 10 years and his dazzling performances at the World Cup have got fingers twitching in the boardrooms of Europe's elite clubs, where owners and sporting directors alike are screaming "spend, spend, spend" every time the little magician scores another wonder goal.
Unperturbed by the fact they could have bought him for £5m as a teenager, Manchester United are said to be keen to rescue Rodríguez from the decaying cesspit that is Monaco, but a move to Real Madrid is more likely. Well versed in the art of engineering a move, even at the tender age of 22, Rodríguez told a Spanish radio station: "I dream of playing in Spain. I prefer Real Madrid."
Having once been trafficked into Real against his will by the president Florentino Pérez, Roberto Carlos sees no reason the for the deal not to happen. "Rodríguez is very good," the Brazilian told marca.com . "He is at Monaco, which is a great team, one of the best in France, but if we have a word with Florentino who knows what might happen. Florentino can do anything he likes." A Gareth Bale-like fee has been mooted.
Louis van Gaal may have to console himself with the £10m capture of Milan's Nigel de Jong, who would add steel to the midfield if not the ability to drop one on his chest, swivel and bang it into the top corner with his left from 30 yards.
Arsène Wenger is similarly looking to add a bit of bite in front of the defence, but he is the sort of man who prefers to drop £15m big ones on a suave young Frenchman in the form of Southampton's Morgan Schneiderlin.
Mauricio Pochettino will delight UKIP fans by buying British, Swansea City's 21-year-old left-back Ben Davies the man the Spurs manager has his eye on to steady a leaky defence.
Tom Ince and his dad have decided that Hull is the best place for the young winger to get his head down and become a man after Steve Bruce persuaded the inseparable pair to resist the overtures of Internazionale and settle on the English riviera.
Chelsea are preparing to reopen the war-chest and drive £60m in cash in convoy through the Channel Tunnel and all the way to Turin in a bid to lure Paul Pogba from Juventus. And Brighton are hoping to nab the Sunderland goalkeeper Keiren Westwood. Not quite in the same league when it come to glamour signings, but it's pertinent to build from the back.


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Microsoft patches 49 security vulnerabilities in massive release
Huge update from Microsoft includes critical patches for Internet Explorer and fixes a flaw exploited by Stuxnet.
Microsoft released 16 security bulletins Tuesday to repair 49 security vulnerabilities, including six critical ones, in a record-setting patch release.
The massive update includes critical fixes for Internet Explorer, Windows and the Microsoft .NET Framework. It also includes an update to fix a vulnerability exploited by the Stuxnet Trojan, malware that seeks out Siemens industry control system software.
Tuesday's patch release breaks the previous record of 34, which was first set in October 2009 and matched in August, according to McAfee.
A cumulative update for Internet Explorer, MS10-071 repairs 10 security vulnerabilities, the most severe of which could allow remote code execution if a user views a specially crafted webpage using Internet Explorer, according to Microsoft.
The vulnerabilities are easy for attackers to exploit, said Wolfgang Kandek, chief technology officer at Redwood Shores, Calif.-based Qualys Inc. "This is what you might want to patch as quickly as possible," he said.
MS10-076, which fixes a vulnerability in a Windows component -- the Embedded OpenType (EOT) Font Engine -- also is easily exploited by attackers because it doesn't require a lot of interaction by the user, Kandek said. Microsoft said an attacker who exploits the flaw could take complete control of a system remotely.
Jason Miller, data and security team manager at Saint Paul, Minn.-based patch management firm Shavlik Technologies, said MS10-071 and MS10-076 are the two bulletins that should raise an alarm for administrators. It's critical to patch any Web browser vulnerability quickly because malicious websites that exploit unpatched browsers are a common attack vector, he said. EOT is commonly font used on webpages, he noted.
Rated by Microsoft as "important," MS10-073 repairs several vulnerabilities in the Windows kernel-mode drivers, including an elevation of privilege vulnerability related to Stuxnet. According to Microsoft, an attacker must have valid logon credentials and be able to log on locally to exploit the vulnerability.
Kandek said Stuxnet used the flaw to get administrator privileges on a system and take control of it. Tuesday's update fixes the vulnerability in Windows XP but not Vista, he said. Microsoft said it will release a second and final update to repair elevation of privilege vulnerabilities exploited by Stuxnet in an upcoming bulletin.
Microsoft's September update included a fix for a critical print-sharing vulnerability actively targeted in the wild by the Stuxnet Trojan outbreak in July. The company also issued an emergency patch July 30 to repair a zero-day vulnerability in the Windows Shell that was being used by Stuxnet.
Stuxnet's sophistication has impressed security researchers, Kandek said. It adapts to different situations using a blend of vulnerabilities, he said. "It's very smartly put together."
MS10-077, rated as "critical," fixes a vulnerability in Microsoft .NET Framework that could allow remote code execution on a client system if a user views a malicious webpage using a Web browser that can run XAML Browser Applications (XBAPs), Microsoft said. Shavlik's Miller noted that the flaw only affected 64-bit operating systems.
Overall, this month's security bulletins from Microsoft affect only older software, Miller said. For example, the Internet Explorer 7 and 8 are not affected by the security vulnerabilities addressed in the cumulative IE patch. He recommended organizations upgrade to newer software, if possible.
With Tuesday's update, Microsoft has released 86 security bulletins so far this year, compared to a total of 74 last year, he said.


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Church Angel makes it easy to add your church to our comprehensive directory!
yes, i want toAdd Christian Church Add Christian Counselor
Church of God
Trenton, FL 32693 US
Sunday Morning Worship - 10:30am
Sunday Evening Worship - 6:00pm
Wednesday Evening Worship - 7:00pm
Church Angel .com is a directory of churches and Christian counselors that can be searched for by city, state, and denomination covering the United States of America and Canada. We made it easy to browse through churches in your area. Our online Christian church directory makes it easy to list a church or find a church that meets your spiritual needs. Find a church today!


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book describes trails used by Native Americans as they travelled
through and within what are now the borders of this state. A typical
example is that of the French Creek Path, from Conestoga Indian
Town to Phoenixville. The author offers a history and written description
of the path, followed by instructions to the motorist who wishes
to follow it. These are supplemented by superimposing a trace of
the path onto a modern map of the area. Wallace uses this format
to describe 131 Indian paths, adding five appendicies, biographical
notes and two indices to his work of over 200 pages.
200+ pages, maps, appendices,
notes, indices, paperback. $19.95
©2018 Lord Nelson's
Gallery ~ 1-800-664-9797
27 Chambersburg St. Gettysburg, PA 17325
Prices & availability subject to change without notice


text:
IT security is all wrong, says expert
The $43 billion spent on information security worldwide over the last three decades has been spent on systems with flaws so drastic that they can't be fixed with technology, says Winn Schwartau, an information security expert who has testified before the US Congress and consulted as an expert witness in US courts. Schwartau believes that the policies that handle how long it takes to detect and respond to a security breach are far more crucial than the plethora of preventative technologies available.
Schwartau's time-based security model addresses the fact that no one knows how to secure a computer with complete certainty. Consequently, IT security vendors never guarantee their products 100%, which makes measuring the success of security systems problematic to say the least. When building network infrastructures that are homogenous and easy to use, companies are effectively building in security weaknesses by limiting the number of possible attack targets. Microsoft, for instance, has had to endure a lot of negative publicity about the security of its software because it owns 93% of the desktop operating system market.
Most of the current IT security models were developed for standalone computer systems, rather than those connected to the Internet. Since the advent of the Web, IT security has become a hodge-podge of technologies that address small parts of the whole problem - transferring from a security model where everyone is shut out to one where a company allows customers and partners selective access to its internal systems. The industry is crying out for a replicable methodology that shows the value of IT security relative to the level of investment required.
Schwartau's pitch is that security should be based around an automated reaction path that reduces as far as possible the amount of time that the computer systems are available to attack. This is expressed by the equation, E=D+R. The exposure time (E) of the system equals the detection time (D) needed to see the problem plus the reaction time (R) needed to do something about it. Because nobody can guarantee the protection of a computer system, a company always has to assume the possibility of its systems being exposed for some time when an attack occurs.
Indeed, some intrusion detection systems on the market still work by printing reports on what has already occurred in the traffic over a network, which means response times are dependent on someone reading those reports. Even the most up-to-date systems are often fractured affairs that don't make it easy to make a coordinated response to an attack. The more time an attacker, whether from inside or out, has with the system exposed, the more damage he or she can do.
Schwartau's approach boils down to building a reaction plan to various known problems and scenarios. By classifying data, evaluating assets and choosing the appropriate responses, a company can come up with a policy on how to respond to threats in the shortest possible time. Such a policy, if its procedures are followed, would outweigh any technology put in place - at least until the effectiveness of protective devices can be measured, which isn't yet the case.
The issue is really one of control. The old hierarchical top-to-bottom decision-making processes are being replaced by situations in which business leaders are effectively handing control of their organizations' Internet trading environments over to employees that understand much more about technology than they do.
Schwartau also advocates systems administrators undergoing military-style psychological testing to make sure they will be loyal to the companies they work for. A common-sense streamlining of security policies is one thing, but just how much control can a company have over a huge peer-to-peer network like the Internet? What's likely to arise out of this uncertainty is a way for companies to insure themselves against risk from IT security breaches. But first there has to be a way to evaluate the effectiveness of IT security technologies - which is exactly the problem Schwartau is highlighting with his time-based security theory.
the451 (www.the451.com) is an analyst firm that provides timely, detailed and independent analysis of news in technology, communications and media. To evaluate the service click here.


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"No may be the word we need most in today's times. The world has sped up and we get overwhelmed with today's demands, whether it is demands at work or balancing our work and family lives. In fact, No may be the most powerful word in the language, the most needed word in these times of endless e-mail and overwhelm. At the same time, it can be the most destructive word in the language, destructive to relationships. For at the heart of every destructive conflict or war is the word No that people are hurling at each other. Because it can be so destructive, No is the word that is hardest for us to say. But, if we can learn how to say it gracefully, if we can learn how to say it positively, I believe it can really help transform our personal lives, our work lives and the larger world."
~William Ury, source


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Bee Balm works for Insect Stingscomments (0) June 25th, 2018
Monarda fistulosa isn't just called bee balm because it attracts bees and other pollinators--it also helps to ease their stings. I can speak of this firsthand since I have been using the leaves of this healing plant as a poultice on bee and wasp stings for many years. Pretty much any of the monardas will relieve the pain and swelling of an insect sting, however the wild, native M. fistulosa is where I head first for first aid. I have also seen this plant referred to as wild bergamot and horsemint.
Recently, when I was cleaning the backporch and displaced a wasp nest, I got nailed on the side of the knee from a disturbed wasp. The searing burn at the site indicates the sting immediately--if you don't see it--you certainly feel it! So after my initial "EEEYOWL! I put down the broom and calmly headed across the driveway to my patch of monarda.
Now I must tell you--this is no ordinary patch of monarda--it is rather stupendous if I do say so myself. I transplanted a few plants of M. fistulosa to this sunny spot along the drive about six, maybe eight years ago. Since then, it has spread every year and right now I'd say it measures an area about 20+ feet long and 12 to 15 feet deep. As I write, the plants are fully budded and the first few flowers popped yesterday. Many more will open for the Full Buck Moon in the wee hours of this Thursday morning. Then for the next 6 to 8 weeks, I will have the pleasure of the lovely shaggy lavender-hued blooms--along with hundreds of pollinators. This patch will literally and physically be abuzz from dawn until dusk. It is thrilling.
Back to the sting. Now if I were in the field and had no kitchen nearby, I would take a small handful of leaves and tear them up into small pieces and then I'd chew them up to mix them with my saliva (this process was practiced by the Native American Kiowa tribe). With this plant, I'd be chewing as quickly as I possibly could because it is HOT; just a few seconds in my mouth and my tongue is burning! (This is due to the essential oil which is high in carvacrol, which is also found in hot, spicy oreganos, savory and some of the other wild monardas.) Then I would take this freshly chewed poultice and put it directly on the site of the sting and tie my trusty, ever-handy bandana around it to hold the poultice in place.
Otherwise, one can come inside and tear or chop the leaves into small pieces and put them in a bowl. Pour just the tiniest amount of near-boiling or hot water over the leaves, mix around and apply as directed, perhaps wrapping with a piece of gauze. You can use a bandana, large hanky, kitchen towel, or if you are like me, I have odd pieces of cotton muslin on hand for these purposes.
I find relief almost immediately. For me, the stinging pain decreases to almost none within 20 to 30 minutes. It takes a bit longer for the swelling to go away, sometimes a few hours or overnight depending on the severity and reaction to the sting. I reapply the poultice as needed.
According to Peterson Field Guide to Medicinal Plants and Herbs by Steven Foster and James A. Duke, "botanists describe several varieties, with chemists separating different chemotypes based on varied chemistry of essential oil." Native American Indian tribes noted and valued the different variations of M. fistulosa and even gave different names to them. They used this plant internally for everything from headaches, coughs, colds and fevers, gastric upsets, and for expelling worms. Externally, it was used for skin problems and pimples, as well as a personal perfume. It has anesthetic, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
There are many other herbs in our yards that will soothe the sting of an insect from lemon balm and plantain to purslane (for caterpillar stings) and jewelweed, even our common culinary parsley! You need to be personally responsible for correctly identifying and using herbs (of course if you are allergic, seek medical help immediately). The aforementioned field guide (above) is a great resource to start with. What is your go-to herb for insect stings?
posted in: bee stings, bee balm, monarda fistulosa, horsemint, insect stings, wild bergamot
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The Lounge S2 | Welcome To Merrick Square
Posted by Host
The lovable BookendBaldies are back! Buddy meets Eddie on the #LIRR and takes him to one of his favorite restaurant and 'Lounge' spots LaStrada of Merrick. Live, love and laugh with the boys as they indulge on delicious food, enjoy great company and have antics for days! Don't forget to #Like #Share or #Comment. Presented by Resorts World Casino New York City Special thanks to LaStradaofMerrick.com Filmed by Visionary Organics Produced by Spot On Media Group LTD with Christine Clarke Gerani
(Visited 48 times, 1 visits today)


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The Digital Curriculum Benefits From a Managed Programs Approach
3/5/12 8:52 AM iCorps Technologies IT Solutions, Managed IT Services
The advent of the internet has led to a veritable explosion of digital content that can prove highly useful in an academic setting. Digital textbooks can have intriguing features such as animated maps and embedded videos that take the student deeper into the content than is possible with a print-only approach. Even if a digital textbook's most advanced feature is the use of hyperlinks, it still provides students with a much more user-friendly experience than does a traditional print textbook.
The true usefulness of a digital curriculum, however, cannot be implemented until each student is in possession of a device, such as a laptop or tablet computer, that can readily access online content. Actually, equipping each student with an iPad or similar device is quickly becoming one of the trends in many schools across the nation. With such a device, not only can students use electronic textbooks with ease, but they can also access the millions of open source materials for learning available on sites that range from the CIA World Factbook to TeacherTube, a repository of educational videos screened in advance for language and content.
Schools adding so many more devices to their networks, however, are increasingly realizing that the age of the digital curriculum brings with it challenges that must be addressed. Many are choosing a managed programs approach in which experts from an IT company visit the school computer lab, server room, or classrooms as needed to manage firewall settings or provide other essential services to maintain a smoothly functioning system for students and teachers alike.


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On the market for an iPhone? Here's a breakdown of all the currently shipping iPhones from Apple.
Apple Announces iPad Mini 4 for $399, Lowers iPad Mini 2 Price to $269
The new tablet also has all of the expected improvements in its camera, with advanced optics, an improved sensor, and an Apple‑designed image signal processor. The iPad Mini 4 includes Touch ID and uses new iOS 9 features like Slide Over, Split View, and Picture in Picture to provide users with a more robust and economical mobile experience.
iPad Mini 4 is available in Space Gray, Gold, and Silver for $399 (16GB), $499 (64GB), and $599 (128GB), including cellular options. Apple has dropped the iPad mini 3 from its lineup, while the iPad mini 2 is available for $269.
Top Rated Comments(View all)
Also with OSes. tvOS, Mac OS, Watch OS, iOS.
Keep it simple Apple.
That's it?! Ugh!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! There's something lackluster and .... Disappointing about it. Like reaching for an ice cold beverage and it's a little flat.
1Gb of ram again?
No split view?
I'm starting to think they have too many products. Should be 1 mini, 1 Air and 1 Pro. This is plain confusing. Similar issue with the MacBook lineup.
Also with OSes. tvOS, Mac OS, Watch OS, iOS.
Keep it simple Apple.
They should have...iPad mini, iPad Air, and iPad Pro.
And for Macbooks...MacBook (12"), MacBook Air (13"), and MacBook Pro (15")
And for phones...iPhone mini (4"), iPhone Air (4.7"), iPhone Pro (5.5")
iPad mini 4, 16GB, Gold ordered! 4 - 6 dispatch with 16th - 18th delivery.
I ordered one too, 16GB Space Grey WiFi version. Same delivery date.
I understand that some people are disappointed or don't feel the need to upgrade since there are no big changes. But that doesn't make the iPad Mini 4 a bad product. It has improved and for people like me who don't have an iPad yet it is an exciting product. I think that the Mini 4 in comparison with the Mini 2 has enough improvements to justify the price gap.
- 30% faster CPU
- 60% faster graphics
- Thinner design
- More lightweight
- Laminated display
- Antireflective coating
- Touch-ID
- AC Wifi
So those improvements made it a no-brainer for me so I pulled the trigger and ordered one right away. :)
It's still 1024*768
It will be 2048x1536, like the iPad Mini 2/3
[ Read All Comments ]


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Paris, the city of Romance and the City Of Lights - High on everyone's travel list, what better way to get acquainted with it than on a river cruise that takes you down the Seine to see the most famous and iconic attractions in all their glory. Whether you're traveling to Paris for a city break with friends, for a family holiday with little ones, or for a romantic getaway to celebrate a special occasion as a couple you'll find that there's a river cruise just perfect for you.
Couples are sure to enjoy the lunch and dinner cruise options, why sit in a restaurant with a static street view when you can enjoy gourmet dining with a view that's always changing as the Eiffel Tower, The Louvre, Notre Dame Cathedral and so many other famous buildings, bridges, and views pass by the window.
There are a variety of combo tickets for those who want to do more and see more with their limited time. Enjoy a cruise that's combined with a ride around Paris in a vintage vehicle, make a night of it with a dinner cruise plus cabaret/burlesque show, or make your own city sightseeing itinerary thanks to the hop-on-hop-off river cruise that operates all year long and ferries thousands of passengers along the River Seine over a year.
No matter your budget or your personal tastes, we've scoured the booking sites for a river cruise you're sure to be delighted with. We've done all the hard work for you by comparing the prices, reading the descriptions, and scouring the reviews to handpick some of the best and most interesting Paris river cruises for you. All that's left is to wish you Bon Voyage!
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Fresh delays have hit the government's controversial plans to reform prison sentencing in England and Wales, with legislation postponed until at least the end of the month.
The justice secretary, Kenneth Clarke, originally postponed an announcement on his sentencing plans until after the Whitsun break in the face of the row over his proposal to increase the maximum sentence discounts for early guilty pleas.
The home secretary, Theresa May, confirmed on Wednesday that this has now been postponed again and publication of a sentencing and legal aid bill has been delayed for a matter of weeks.
The decision followed a meeting between David Cameron and Clarke after Tuesday's cabinet. Justice ministers are now believed to be looking again at the 50% discount plan for early guilty pleas.
Downing Street is also believed to have insisted that they look again at a plan to restore judge's discretion in imposing indeterminate sentences for public protection, which have been a major driver of the increase in the prison population.
Cameron is due to make a major speech on crime either later this week or early next. It is preparations for that speech that are believed to have prompted the meeting with Clarke.
Speculation that Clarke is being pressed to abandon the whole package appear to be wide of the mark as they form an essential part of the justice secretary's drive to find a 23% cut the justice ministry's budget.
The sentencing package as a whole would save £130m by reducing demand for prison places. Work is believed to be going on in establishing the impact of excluding more serious offences including rape and attempted murder from the sentence discount plans. The problem for Clarke is that the sentence discount plan is a major part of his drive to stabilise the record 85,000 prison population in England and Wales.
A Ministry of Justice impact assessment of Clarke's green paper on sentencing and rehabilitation disclosed that the sentence discount plan is due to provide the lion's share of the reduction in demand for prison places that Clarke needs to stabilise the jail population, which will enable a new drive to cut reoffending rates.
Justice ministry official estimates show that 3,400 of the overall saving of 6,000 fewer prison places that will be needed as a result of his sentencing package will come from the plan to increase the maximum available discount from 33% to 50%.
In practice the MoJ estimates that the average actual discount in sentences for early guilty pleas will increase from the current 25% to 34%.
These official estimates show why Clarke is loth to give up the proposal as it would knock the heart out of his prison reform plans. But ministers are now looking at excluding the most serious offences, such as attempted murder and rape, from the proposed new maximum discount.
Support for this move came from the Association of Chief Police Officers, which said the level of discount for offenders who pleaded guilty to the most serious crime should not be the same as for those who admit less serious offences.
Theresa May, the home secretary, refused to comment on reports that Clarke's sentencing proposals will be ditched .
"What we know is the government last year published some proposals on sentencing, we have been consulting on those and we are now looking across government at what firm proposals we can bring forward in legislation. What we are absolutely clear about is our focus on protecting the public, cutting reoffending, dealing with offenders appropriately."
Asked if the government was engaged in a rethink, May added: "We are looking at what the right way is for government in terms of sentencing and obviously we are looking at what is going to give the right messages but also what is going to ensure that we protect the public".
Clarke came under pressure from Downing Street last month to clarify his claims that some rapes were more "serious" than others amid Labour calls for his resignation.
Clarke was later forced to make a public declaration that he regarded "all rape as a serious crime".
He also said "sorry" to a sexual assault victim who broke down in tears as she challenged him during a radio phone-in about the half-jail terms.
Clarke's plans have caused jitters among Conservatives who fear that the plans undermine their claim to be the party of law and order.
Juliet Lyon, Director of the Prison Reform Trust, told the BBC Radio 4 Today programme that Clarke's plans presented a "coherent blueprint for reform" and should be allowed to go ahead.
"I think the reforms package is very coherent and sensible. So let's hope that they just proceed as planned with just a minor hiccup on the way."
Asked how she thought the reforms might be amended, she said it was too soon to tell.
"Obviously the prime minister must be having to deal with a rather toxic mix of press and a few backbenchers, but in general these reforms have been well-received right across the piece, unusually so.
"They have a lot of public support, as far as we can see. And some of the things are really essential, a sweep-up of a really appalling mess."


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The doctoral degree scholarship of the University of Giessen support doctoral students in the final stages of their PhD in 1500 with a month over a year.
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Essential for the assignment is the detection of loss times, which have been caused by the perception of family tasks.


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Seeing Weezer play live is turning out to be more difficult than initially thought.
The "Buddy Holly" hit makers scheduled January show in San Francisco is in jeopardy after a bus lead singer Rivers Cuomo was traveling in with his wife and young daughter skidded on ice, struck a guide rail and slid into a ditch Sunday morning near Albany, New York.
Emergency crews had to use the laws of life to get inside the bus. Rivers cracked three ribs, while his wife and daughter escaped mostly uninjured but "terrified." The band said Monday that it is at least canceling the rest of its December tour dates.
"Kudos to the driver for somehow keeping things as level as they could be - surely this story would have been far more tragic if not for his actions," the band wrote on its website. "Nonetheless the damage was severe, and everyone on the bus was either terrified or injured or both."
Weezer is scheduled to play the Bay Area on Jan. 9. The band said Monday there was no information on how much time off the boys will take or any rescheduling information. But the group's website said they would reschedule the dates as soon as they could.
Weezer Scare Puts San Francisco Show in Jeopardy
Seeing Weezer play live is turning out to be more difficult than initially thought.