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By JUDITH O. ETZEL | The (Oil City) Derrick and The News-Herald
SENECA, Pa. (AP) — Pulling back slow and steady on her pink 20-pound compound bow, Alexis Dehner rips an arrow straight to the center of her 3-D target.
She does it again and again and then once more.
Lowering her bow, the trophy-winning archer flashes a smile and confidently reaches into her quiver for another arrow that will invariably strike dead center again.
Alexis, winner of medals and trophies and a top-ranked bowman whose talent has been described in flowing terms by professional adult archers, is eight years old.
Granddad's gift
"My PaPa gave me a bow when I was four or five," said the diminutive shooter, a second grader at Cranberry Elementary School. "He taught me how to shoot and I really like doing it."
The bow bestower was Fertigs resident Tom Prody, an archery enthusiast who Alexis quickly described as "really, really good."
Alexis is the daughter of Greg and Tara Dehner of Seneca and the granddaughter of Tom and Julie Prody and Daryl and Sandi Dehner of Seneca.
"We shoot, too, but Alexis just whoops us and that's embarrassing," said her mother, adding that although the movie "Hunger Games" about a young female archer has stirred girls' interest in the sport, that isn't the case for Alexis "because we think she is a little young for that movie."
A repeat champion
While Alexis has a keen affinity for the bow and arrow, she also has incredible talent as an archer. In her past 12 archery contests, she has finished in first place in all but one of them.
The competition has included both large and small fields of young contestants who shoot at both traditional bull's-eye targets and 3-D targets.
"I lost one. I'm really just doing it for fun. But, I wish I had won all of them," said Alexis. "There will be more, though."
The youngster practices every day in a target range set up in the basement of her home. Other practice sessions are held at Archery World on Route 157.
At the age of six, Alexis won her first competition at an International Bowhunting Association match in Fairview. In addition to local contests, she has also taken top honors at matches in Seven Springs, Erie, Warren, Butler and the Rainbow Sportsmen's Club.
Archery equipment companies have come calling, and she has been featured in Shrewd Archery and Copper John Archery publications.
Growing into a second and slightly larger bow, Alexis handed down her original bow to her three-year-old sister, Chelsea.
"My parents have to help her hold it but she can use it," said Alexis.
'Just awesome'
Such diligence to her sport has not distracted Alexis from other pursuits.
"My grades are good — I get all A's and O's," she said. "And my friends and my teacher know I shoot and they think it is just awesome."
As a member of the Lutheran Youth Organization at Good Hope Lutheran Church in Oil City, Alexis so impressed youth director Susie Hlawati that she asked the youngster to show off her skills to her peers.
"Alexis is amazing and she's just such a sweet girl," said Hlawati. "And our youth group thinks she's pretty impressive with the bow."
In the spirit of sharing, Alexis intends to teach the sport.
"I'm having fun doing this and I want to give lessons," she said. "I think it's a good thing to know how to do."
A love of dogs
Alexis is tapping into another talent in an effort to help homeless dogs. Last year, the family terrier-mixed dog, Cupcake, adopted from the Venango County Humane Society shelter, died at the age of 13. Recently, the family adopted another pet.
"I picked her — she's a brown-and-white and six-month-old pit bull from an animal shelter. Her name is Bella," said Alexis. "I really want all animals to have a home and so I wanted to help those places."
Her help is in the form of a craft. She fashions colorful rubber band bracelets, turning out about 10 a week, and sells them for $2 each at Archery World and the Good Hope Lutheran youth group.
In February, proceeds of about $300 to date — all smooshed into a glass jar labeled "God loves a cheerful giver" from Corinthians — will be donated to the Sharon Club Pet, a no-kill pet shelter.
Alexis is teaching her church youth group to make the bracelets and those will be given to Dr. David Wagner of Seneca to take with him on a mission trip, Through God's Eyes, next month to Haiti.
There's a longer campaign, too.
"We're going to do DukeFest to raise money," said Alexis, referring to the annual benefit dog walk in Franklin. "Maybe it will help to make other people care, too."
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The new QX70 pulled into my driveway and I thought, where have I seen that car before? Ah, yes. This used to be the FX35 or FX45; at least, it was until this year. Infiniti is on a roll in this naming business – or, I should say, name-changing business. What is old is new and is old again. Same car, different name. I guess it's a marketing thing, but suffice to say that the gods of Nissan (Infiniti's corporate parent) have decreed that we civilians must get used to the new name. Ok. We got it.
The irony is that they already had our attention, 10 years ago, when they introduced the V6-powered FX35 and the more robust (V8 engine) FX45. The design was intriguing then and is intriguing now because the FX series (now dubbed QX70) really doesn't look like any other car on the road, save, perhaps, its more conservative-looking cousin, the Nissan Murano. The QX is nominally a sport crossover, but Infiniti clearly wanted to leave the impression of a car that was an elegant brute, a muscular metrosexual. Before we get too carried away with artful descriptions of the FX/QX, Nissan itself described their new progeny as a "bionic cheetah" and auto writer Ezra Dyer once likened it to a "jacked-up extraterrestrial insect" and added that he meant that as a compliment.
What makes the QX stand out is what I can only describe as its flowing, muscular lines. Look at how the front fenders bulge slightly – it's like Arnold Schwarzenegger in a $2,000 tuxedo, big shoulders expensively covered. The whole car gives the impression of a svelte football player in excellent shape and ready for bear (or cheetah, for that matter.)
The car we had was the 2014 QX70 all-wheel-drive with the 3.7-liter, 325-horsepower V6. It's plenty fast and makes you wonder why anyone would want the available 5-liter V8, which sucks down the gas at a more alarming rate (14/20 mpg city/highway) than the V6-engined car (16/22 mpg city/highway). There's also the price factor. The least expensive QX70, a rear-wheel-drive V6 car, starts at under $45,000. The AWD V6 version we drove started at $46,400 and, by the time it was optioned up, the sticker price was $57,945. It's a lot for a wagon, but, then again, it's difficult to find a wagon that looks like a pregnant praying mantis. (There we go again. The QX, by its nature, lends itself to the odd outré description.)
Inside, it's pretty much a comfortable luxury wagon that will go long distances without much strain. The instruments are well laid out – the usual two round dials for tachometer and speedometer right in front of the driver – and the center stack, with the all-purpose eight-inch nav screen/rear-view camera, is designed to be visible but not obtrusive.
The options, nearly $10,000 worth, are startling in their prices but once you see them in action you think of them as all of a piece in this high-end luxury car. The technology package ($2,950) gives you all the electronic inventions we've come to love, such as lane departure warning, forward collision warning, and rain-sensing wipers, among other things; the "Deluxe Touring Package" ($3,300) brings us 20-inch wheels, aluminum pedals, quilted leather seats that are heated and ventilated (this seems a pretty high price for all this); and the "Premium Package," with its premium price of $4,300, brings the more tangible goodies, such as navigation, "Around View® Monitor with Moving Object Detection and Front and Rear Sonar," Bluetooth for streaming audio, the CD/DVD in-dash player, tilt-telescoping steering column and on and on until the electrons fade into the sunset. (Anyone making a plain old car any more?)
On the road, the QX70 is quiet, quiet (all that padding) until you floor it. Then you hear the distinct roar of that V6 and it's apparent that Infiniti did not want to muffle the noise, something they easily could have done. It sounds like a performance car and it makes this a distinctly go-get-'em kind of wagon. Car and Driver magazine did zero to 60 in 6.1 seconds on last year's FX37 (essentially the same car) and hit a top speed of 142 mph. A hundred and forty-two in a crossover? Did the lapels on the tuxedo start flapping?
There are, of course, other crossovers or SUVs in this luxo pantheon – Acura, Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, BMW all come to mind. But none of them has that distinctive, preying animal look of the QX70.
Maybe it really is a bionic cheetah.

subset: commoncrawl


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In Siena the architecture soars and lifts your soul. This is Italy before the Renaissance, magically transported to the modern day. With its narrow streets and steep alleys, a Gothic Duomo, a bounty of early Renaissance art, and the glorious Palazzo Pubblico overlooking its magnificent Campo, Siena is often described as Italy's best-preserved medieval city. Originally a Roman colony founded by Augustus over 2,000 years ago called Saena Julia, Sienese myth suggests that Siena was founded by Senius and Aschius, two sons of Remus and thus nephews of Romulus, after whom Rome was named. Supposedly after their father's murder by Romulus, they fled Rome, taking with them the statue of the she-wolf suckling the infants, thus appropriating that symbol for the town. In the 1300s, Siena was one of Europe's largest cities and a major military force, in a class with Florence, Venice, and Genoa, but weakened by a disastrous plague and conquered by her Florentine rivals, Siena became a backwater for six centuries.
However, Siena's loss became our sightseeing gain, because its political and economic irrelevance preserved its Gothic-era identity, most notably its great, gorgeous central piazza — the Campo — one of the most remarkable squares in Italy, is divided into seventeen wards into which the town is divided and still manages to play an active part in the life of the city, culminating in the famous Palio horserace which has survived as perhaps the most spectacular annual festival in Italy — and the Duomo sitting atop Siena's highest point and visible for miles around, the its bold white and dark-green stripes. Inside and out, it's lavished with statues and mosaics. Declared by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, the historic centre of Siena is the embodiment of a medieval city with red-brick lanes cascading every which way. Because Siena's steep lanes go in anything but a straight line, it's easy to get lost — but there's no rush to get found. As you wander, you'll be tempted by Sienese specialties in the shops along the way with gourmet pasta, vintage Chianti, wild boar prosciutto, extra virgin olive oil, and panforte. No matter, life is a journey, and Siena is a gem to explore to your hearts content.
Outdoor cafés line the Campo and on a sunny morning, there's no better place to relax and enjoy a cappuccino
Café Nannini on the Campo
A hot creamy cappuccino to jump start the morning
Brioche alla crema
A handful of napkins are needed for flaky and creamy brioche
Fonte Gaia in Siena's Piazza dl Campo was deigned and built by Jacopo della Quercia in 1419
Detail of one of the sculptures
A saucy pigeon perched on the snout of a wolf,
part of the Fonte Gaia representing the mother-wolf of Romulus and Remus
The famous Torre del Mangia and the Palazzo Public are examples of classical Tuscan Gothic architecture and now houses and houses a wonderful array of frescoes by artists such as Vecchietta, Simone Martini and Sodoma
The glorious carved entrance of the Palazzo Comunale
Built over an area that was once an open field, hence its name 'campo',
Piazza del Campo is one of the world's finest examples of secular architecture and is the precise meeting point of the three hills on which Siena is built
The main door and facade of the Battistero di San Giovanni - The Baptistry of St John
Set under the apse of the Siena Cathedral, the Baptistry was built between 1316 and 1325 by Camaino di Crescentic. The facade, never finished, dates to the second half of the 1300s. The interior, which was finished in 1325, was enriched over the course of the 15th-century with many important sculptures and paintings, the most important of which is the celebrated baptismal font, a masterpiece of the early Tuscan Renaissance, and attributed to Jacopo della Quercia. The basin is hexagonal and decorated with gilded bronze panels depicting scenes from the life of Saint John the Baptist which were executed by Jacopo della Quercia, Turino di Sano, Giovanni dii Turino, Lorenzo Ghiberti and Donatello, and interspersed by statues of the virtues — Faith and Hope are by Donatello, the others are by Giovanni di Turino and Goro di Neroccio. The ciborium is decorated with four musical angels in bronze by Donatello and Giovanni di Turino, and is mounted by a small statue of Saint John the Baptist and bas reliefs by Jacopo dell Quercia. Among the other important works in the Baptistery are the statues from the school of Giovanni Pisano, the triptych of the Madonna with Saints and stories from the lives of Saint Stephen by Andrea Vanni and Giovanni di Paolo, the frescoes by Vecchietta and the articles of faith.
The breathtakingly beautiful interior of the Baptistry
The vaulted ceilings with frescoes representing articles of faith, Prophets and Sybils by Lorenzo di Pietro ("il Vecchietta") painted between 1447-1450
The hexagonal marble Baptismal Font, attributed to Jacopo della Quercia, is decorated with gilded bronze panels depicting scenes from the life of Saint John the Baptist which were executed by Jacopo della Quercia, Turino di Sano, Giovanni dii Turino, Lorenzo Ghiberti and Donatello
Angel by Giuseppe Mazzuoli, was created for the tymapnum of one of the side portals of the Siena Cathedral facade and now preserved in St John's Baptistry
Discovered in 1999 and opened to the public in 2003, the Crypt is one of Siena's most important newly discovered archaeological sites. It was constructed at the same time as the Siena Duomo in the 13th-century, but was never used as a crypt but for storage. It was abandoned and then laid hidden for 700 years until its rediscovery during routine excavations in the Duomo in 1999. The walls are painted with a colourful cycle of frescoes depicting the life of Jesus just before his death until his burial, and include: the Annunciation, Visitation, Nativity, Kiss of Judas, Crucifixion, Deposition, and the Entombment of Christ. The artists are not known for certain, but probably included Dietisalvi di Speme, Guido di Graziano and Rinaldo da Siena.
The Crypt beneath the Duomo with a wonderful series of 13th-century frescoes adorning its walls
Fresco detail of Mary and Joseph with Jesus as a child
A unique view if the top of the Baptistry dome as exposed from the Crypt
Siena's Cathedrale di Santa Maria, better known as the Duomo, is a gleaming marble treasury of Gothic art from the 13th and 14th centuries. Unquestionably one of Italy's most extraordinary Gothic churches, the cathedral is as impressive inside as it is out, and features the breathtaking work of Italy's finest artists of the day: Nicola and Giovanni Pisano, Donatello, Pinturicchio, Lorenzo Ghiberti, Michelangelo and Bernini. Parts of the facade were restored and reorganized in 1866 by Giuseppe Partini and again after World War II. All the statues on the facade, many of them designed by Giovanni Pisano, were replaced with replicas in the 1960s, with the originals now on display in the Museo dell'Opera. The interior of the spectacular Duomo is a rather dizzying sight, with its black-and-white striped pillars and ornate decoration on every surface.
There is much to see, including an enormous number of art masterpieces. The entire floor of Siena's Cathedral is an incredible works of art: a spectacular inlaid marble mosaic floor featuring 59 etched and inlaid marble panels created from 1372 to 1547, described by Giorgio Vasari as "the most beautiful, largest and most magnificent floor that ever was made". About halfway down the nave on the left is the entrance to the Libreria Piccolomini, famed for its beautifully preserved Renaissance frescoes, beautifully decorated by Pinturicchio and depicting the eventful life of Pope Pius II. A young Raphael may have been among the pupils who assisted. The walls are lined with display cases carved by Antonio Barili in 1495-96 and filled with an important collection of 30 richly illustrated Renaissance choir books from 1465 to 1515. To spend an hour or two in the Duomo is not enough — one could spend a lifetime.
The magnificent Duomo of Siena
Detail of facade sculptures
Detail of one of the mosaics made in Venice and added to the facade in 1878
The Duomo, in the form of a Latin cross, is built in the Tuscan Romanesque style
The celebrated pavement of Siena Cathedral features 59 etched and inlaid marble panels created from 1372 to 1547, with subjects that include sibyls, scenes from Sienese history and biblical scenes
The hexagonal dome is topped with Bernini's gilded lantern, like a golden sun
The presbytery is dominated by the large marble altar done by Baldassare Peruzzi in 1532, under an earlier bronze ciborium by Vecchietta and flanked by angels carrying candles
The heads of 172 popes peer down on all those who enter the Duomo
The Piccolomini Altarpiece, built 1481-1485 and made of Carrara marble,
with four niche sculptures of saints added by Michelangelo in 1501
The spectacular Piccolomini Library in the Duomo of Siena
Painted by Perugian painter Pintoricchio in 1502
The glorious ceiling is also painted by Pintoricchio, now one of my new favourite artists
Fresco detail of Piccolomini on his way to Basel
Fresco detail of Piccolomini receiving the cardinal's cap from Pope Callistus III
The walls are lined with display cases carved by Antonio Barili in 1495-96 and filled with an important collection of 30 richly illustrated Renaissance choir books from 1465 to 1515
A ceiling detail declaring the subject of the Library — Pope Pius III
The ceiling features mythological and pastoral scenes
Maiolica tiles adorn the floor of the magnificent Piccolomini Library, bearing the emblem of the Piccolomini family, the crescent moon
The original stained-glass window from the Duomo depicting the Last Supper by Buoninsegna in 1287, now on display at the Museo del Duomo
Pisano's original sculptures of Saints which adorned the exterior of the Duomo, before being removed due to deterioration and now on display at the Museo
Detail of one of Pisano's original sculptures
The rather ornate gift shop of the Museo del Duomo!
Climbing a tight circular staircase of 143 steps in the Museo tower offers spectacular panoramic views over the Duomo, Piazza and the Sienese countryside
Well worth the climb to enjoy these extraordinary views
Siena is one of the best destinations in Tuscany to taste the region's many specialties, sip its rich wines and any journey into Siena's local gastronomy. Undoubtedly Siena's most beloved restaurant — and one of the best in Tuscany — is La Taverna di San Giuseppe serving traditional Casalinga and local Tuscan cuisine, with local specialties such as Ribollita, Brasato, handmade pici pasta with porcini mushrooms and cinghiale, and a wonderful wine list and boasts the best of local and national wines, including Tuscany's famous Brunello di Montalcino. The barrel-vaulted and candle-lit 12th-century interior also boasts a wine cellar which dates back to early Etruscan times, discovered when a medieval church was under excavation and well worth a peek while dining at the restaurant. Outstanding from beginning to end, Taverna di San Giuseppe is a culinary gem. The unpretentious atmosphere, fabulous menu and wonderfully friendly staff makes this one of the best restaurants in the city and being a favourite among locals, it's well advised to make reservations — you'll be glad you did!
La Taverna di San Giuseppe in Siena
The barrel-vaulted interior, superb menu and excellent staff make this one of Siena's best loved restaurants
Zuppa di Piselli amuse-bouche
Le Corbinie bianco, a light and refreshing Tuscan wine
TorCalvano Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, the definitive red from Tuscany
Uova di Squaglia nel Padelline su Polenta con Salsciccia e Tartufo
Sformatino di Asparagi e Fonduta di Pecorino Fresco
Ribollita alla Senese
Antica Ricetta di Cinghiale al Latte di Castagneto Carducci
Pici Casalinghi al Cinghiale e Porcini
Welcoming, gracious and attentive, the fabulous staff of Taverna di San Giuseppe
Taverna di San Giuseppe's Etruscan wine cellar


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Ike No Taiga: Japanese artist and a glimpse into the history of Japan
Lee Jay Walker
Modern Tokyo Times
Japanese art is very distinctive and contrasts greatly with classical European art and clearly religious differences, environmental factors, distance, limited social interaction between both poles and other important factors is behind this. Ike No Taiga exemplifies the vast difference in thinking and clearly China was the central of gravity for a major period in the history of Japan.
This article is merely highlighting Ike No Taiga and focusing on the underbelly of culture in Japan and how his life provides glimpses of the reality of Japan in the 18th century. After all, the land of the rising sun was clearly influenced by ideas emanating out of China. Therefore, while thinking was influenced before the Nara period in the 8th century it is clear that the Nara period highlights the interaction of both nations.
It is often claimed that the Edo period is based on isolation but the life of Ike No Taiga (1723-1776) challenges this oversimplification. The Edo period witnessed the Buddhist inquisition against Christianity whereby all Christians were killed in this period in Japan but outside cultural influence still entered this country.
Therefore, while religious edicts were a reality the isolation of Japan is a different matter because thought patterns emanating from China were still potent. Therefore, the life of Ike No Taiga is fascinating because of many factors.
Ike No Taiga was born into a relatively poor family and his father died when he was very young. However, despite this his mother somehow managed to get her son educated by some of the finest minds in Japan in this period.
This in itself shows you that the heavy handed stratification of society was not completely rigid and Ike No Taiga was accepted because he was a man of letters and an artist who provides glimpses of Japan in this period.
Ike No Taiga was taught classical Japanese and Chinese disciplines during his childhood and the Mampuku-ji Zen temple would remain embedded within his soul. Therefore, irrespective of Japan's isolation or not; the classical world of China was still potent within the mindset of Japanese high culture and religious thinking from Mampuku-ji Zen temple shaped and influenced Ike No Taiga greatly.
At the tender age of 14 Ike No Taiga had become a professional artist and a calligrapher of high esteem. However, the encounter he had with Yanagisawa Kien would impact on him greatly.
Through Yanagisawa Kien the world of bunjin was introduced to him and this world would shape the life of Ike No Taiga. Yanagisawa Kien was a major artistic figure and social thinker and bunjin was potent within high circles in this period of Japanese history.
Anna Beerens comments that "In 8th-century Japan a few hundred individuals, mostly living in the main towns, such as Kyoto, Osaka and Edo, are considered literati (bunjin). In studying this group as an intellectual and social phenomenon one studies an important part of the history of 18th-century Japanese culture and city life. Also, their literati activities and attitudes are an interesting example of acculturation. For whatever our literati may be, they certainly are a collection of consciously sinophile people, writing Chinese, painting in a variety of Chinese styles, drinking their tea the Chinese way, and otherwise assimilating and disseminating Chinese influences, at the same time changing this heritage in all sorts of subtle ways."
Ike No Taiga, Kan Tenju and Ko Fuyo were deeply influenced by Yanagisawa Kien and the bunjin world appealed greatly because of the high culture that it provided. However, the social reality of Ike No Taiga meant that the avoidance of commercialism was not possible because if he did not ply his trade then he had no alternative source of income.
Another aspect of bunjin thinking was to set off on important journeys in order to understand the world and to commune with nature. Also, the journeys would expand the cultural awareness of the individual and by connecting with nature this would then trigger greater artistic imagination.
Bunjin concepts did enable Ike No Taiga to expand his knowledge and by travelling he learnt about Rangaku (Dutch learning) and Noro Genjo will have provided another important worldview but fused with Japanese cultural influences.
Again, the Edo period and isolationism did not prevent scholars from studying outside concepts. Therefore, the thought patterns of high culture in both China and the Netherlands would impact on Ike No Taiga.
Throughout much of the life of Ike No Taiga he would travel and connect with nature by mountain climbing and witnessing culture during his travels. He often was accompanied by fellow bunjin colleagues and collaboration on art projects took place. Therefore, the philosophy of bunjin reached deep into his soul.
At all times Ike No Taiga was searching and in time he would also become influenced by Hakuin Ekaku. Therefore, the personal style of Hakuin Ekaku would add to the vast knowledge of Ike No Taiga and he would work with Hakuin's disciples.
The Japanese government classified some of Ike No Taiga's work to be National Treasures and this would have pleased him greatly because the man of letters was fully transformed by bunjin thought patterns.
Ike No Taiga may have resided in so-called isolationist Japan but this did not stop him from benefitting from the high culture of China and the Netherlands. Also, his humble background and stratification in Japan did not hinder him and aspects of the life of Ike No Taiga should be studied in order to deconstruct some myths about Japan in the Edo period.
http://moderntokyotimes.com (please visit)


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Friday 25th May 2018
Pryzm Nightclub, Plymouth
Box Office – 01708 863838
Pleasure Boys 2018 – Darkness & Light Tour
After the success of 2017, the boys are back in the studio. This year they have decided to play a new theme never yet tried within our industry. The graphics of this project have gone even more spectacular than its predecessor making this not only a live experience but the multimedia extravaganza you have come to expect from the UK Pleasure Boy's show.
Watch as the guys transform into your heroes and take on the biggest, baddest villains of all time. This is no longer just a strip show, it is a production showcasing the finest male flesh while captivating its audience and drawing them into our very own Pleasure playground.
While this is a stage show, our guys will still interact with the audience.
Show Includes
- Acrobatics & stunning routines
- Group dancers & solo spots
- Singing drag queen
- A hint of comedy genius
- Sex appeal guaranteed
- High quality ladies night
- Ground breaking mutlimedia show
* Tickets are non refundable
Must be over 18 to attend
Photo ID may be required if you look under 25
Tour shows are hosted by Adrenalin Promotions
Adrenalin Promotions reserve the right to cancel or postpone the event , if in the unlikely event this happens all tickets will either be refunded or transferred to the nearest date
In all cases – club rules apply
Security at the venue have the right to remove any persons who's behaviour is deemed to be innapropriate.
At no point will voilence be tolerated by any member of the audience towards club staff members of Tour crew members
Adrenalin Promotions has the right to change the tour line up without prior notice.


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This recovery's strength may surprise you.
The Current Great Recession, as some call it, has destroyed confidence as much as it has jobs and wealth. From our peak, inflationadjusted GDP has fallen by 3.9%. The mild downturns of 1990-91 and 2001, each just eight months long, brought losses to the real GDP of just 1.4% and 0.3%, respectively.
The recession that sunk its hooks into the U.S. economy in the fourth quarter of 2007 has set records in vital categories such as manufacturing and trade inventories (the steepest decline since 1949), capacity utilization (lowest since at least 1967) and industrial production (sharpest fall since 1946).
History tells us, the deeper the slump, the stronger the recovery. A well-regarded economist recently said that the most important determining factor of the strength of a recovery is the depth of the downturn that preceded it. There are no exceptions to this rule, including the 1929-39 period.
Growth snapped back following the downturns of 1893-94, 1907-08, 1920-21, and 1929-33. At the trough in 1933, the unemployment rate stood at 25%. (If there had been a measure of labor underutilization back then, it likely would have been about 44%, compared to 16.8% today.)
At the same time, the consumption share of GDP was above 80% in 1933, and the household savings rate was negative. Yet, in the four years that followed, the economy expanded at a 9.5% annual average rate, while the unemployment rate dropped 10.6 percentage points.
Our recession does bear comparison with the slump of 1981-82. In the worst quarter of that contraction, (the first quarter of 1982), real GDP shrank at an annual rate of 6.4%, matching the steepest drop of the current recession (the first quarter of 2009). Yet the recovery, starting in the first quarter of 1983, experienced quarterly growth rates (expressed as annual rates of change) over the next six quarters of 5.1%, 9.3%, 8.1%, 8.5%, 8.0%, and 7.1%. Not until the third quarter of 1984 did real quarterly GDP growth drop below 5%.
High unemployment
The 10.2% unemployment rate for October is a grim reminder of how steep the fall has been and it will undoubtedly rise further, even though the economy has returned to positive GDP growth (3.5% in the third quarter). But falling employment always lags a recovery. When the early 1980s recession ended in December 1982, unemployment was at 10.8%; it didn't fall below 6% until September 1987.
Remember, in the Great Depression, falling prices opened wallets. Finding bargains in homes, stocks, and many other goods and services, consumers and investors snapped them up, a truism we are witnessing in the housing market today. The Economic Cycle Research Institute's long-leading index of the U.S. economy, along with supporting sub-indices, are making 26-year highs and point to the strongest bounce-back since 1983.
The last time a recession ravaged the labor market as badly as this one, which was 1957-58, payrolls then climbed by a hefty 4.5% in the first year of an ensuing 24-month expansion. Of course, there is no assurance that growth this time will match that pace, only that growth is likely to surprise us by its strength, not its weakness.
I found a great quote from the English economist Arthur C. Pigou which speaks volumes: "The error of optimism dies in the crisis, but in dying it gives birth to an error of pessimism."
Pierre Villere is President and Managing Partner of Allen-Villere Partners. Contact Pierre Villere at email@example.com or telephone 985-727-4310.
© 2009 Hanley Wood, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Republication or dissemination of "The History of Recoveries" (The Concrete Producer, November 2009) is expressly prohibited without the written permission of Hanley Wood, LLC. Unauthorized use is prohibited. Allen-Villere is publishing "The History of Recoveries" under license from Hanley Wood, LLC.


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Spend Less for a Chance to Win Big
A Web site that rewards members for saving and paying down debt has launched a no-spend challenge with a chance to win cash.
If your credit-card spending got a little out of control over the holidays, perhaps you could use an incentive to reign it back in. Would the chance to win $6,000 be incentive enough?
DOWNLOAD: The Kip Tips iPad App
That's what the folks at SaveUp hope. The site launched a No Spend Challenge January 3 to encourage people to break the habit of overspending and eliminate holiday debt. To participate, you have to sign up at SaveUp and register up to three active credit cards. Each day in January that you don't use your cards you are entered for a chance to win a $5,000 grand prize. SaveUp also is awarding five $1,000 prizes to people who share the challenge with others on Facebook or Twitter. So you could win a total of $6,000.
SaveUp's No Spend Challenge is one of just many ways the site rewards people for good financial behavior. The primary mission of the San Francisco-based company, which was founded in 2011, is to encourage more people to save money and pay down debt by giving them chances to win cash and prizes.
Priya Haji, CEO and cofounder of SaveUp, says that the site's rewards system is based on behavioral science, which has found that people are more motivated to engage in certain behaviors by a chance to win big. At SaveUp, good financial behavior earns you a chance to win really big -- up to $2 million.
Here's how it works: Membership is free. When you sign up, you register your financial accounts (as you would at any other money-management site, such as Mint.com) so that SaveUp can award you credits when you save money or pay down debt. Haji says that the site uses bank-level encryption to protect data and never sells members' personal information to third parties.
SaveUp awards members one credit for every $1 they save or pay off in debt. The more you save or lower your debt, the more credits you earn, and the more chances you get to win. You also can earn more chances to win by getting others to join SaveUp and by watching videos on the site about financial topics then taking quizzes to see how much you learned. In addition to the $2 million jackpot, prizes range from gift cards to a $5,000 deposit to your savings account to $50,000 for a home down payment.
SaveUp collaborates with companies to offer the prizes, which are listed on the site and basically serve as advertising for the companies. And it makes money from partnerships with financial institutions that promote their loans and banking products on the site.


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Today is violin legend Niccolò Paganini's birthday! He was born on October 27, 1840 in Genoa, Italy. He was well known as the greatest violinist of his day (and maybe the greatest of all time), as well as an infamous womanizer and gambler. According to www. paganini.com "His playing of tender passages was so beautiful that his audiences often burst into tears, and yet, he could perform with such force and velocity that at Vienna one listener became half crazed and declared that for some days that he had seen the Devil helping the violinist."
According to legend he gave a concert where, towards the end, one string on his violin snapped and hung limply from his instrument. Paganini continued to play and then to everyone's surprise, a second string broke. And shortly thereafter, a third. Paganini stood there with three strings dangling from his Stradivarius. But instead of leaving the stage, he calmly completed the difficult number on the one remaining string. Legend has it that he sometimes left worn-out strings on his instrument, hoping they would break, so he could show off his spectacular technique!
As a birthday present, here is a video of Jascha Heifetz playing Paganini's Caprice No. 24.
Jack Fishman
Twitter @SASym
Facebook: San Antonio Symphony
For more blogs by Jack Fishman visit: http://blog.mysanantonio.com/jackfishman/files/legacy/


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text:
Senior Member
Posts: 371
Called the police
Hello, thank you for reading. I just need to vent. Maybe somebody else has been in my situation.
Last night my boyfriend came home drunk and so I refused to let him in and I locked him out. After insults and threats, he broke the door and tried to force entry in. I defended the door and called the police.
He has spent the night in a cell and I went to the station last night to give a statement of what happened. He hasn't come back yet, which is strange and I am so worried.
I locked him out because we have had a turbulent relationship for 3 years. His drinking has resulted in him physically beating me and terrifying me in the past (several times) but I have always forgiven him the next day on the condition that he packs in the drink. He hasn't packed it in and 3 saturdays in a row he's been drunk. Three weeks ago he was so drunk he was vomitting on his back and I literally saved his life. Next morning "sorry sorry sorry, never again"...me; ok but this time it has to be for real...but no. He hasn't even been trying to quit. So last night I felt scared and didn't want to let him in.
I have had an alcohol problem in the past too and I feel like I am too weak to send him away but I know it is dangerous for me to stay with him.
I just feel so upset for him. I know he made the choice to drink. He chose to break my door down. He chose not to stop when I said I'd call the police but I feel so sad for him.
He has destroyed his life. I want to tell him to get his stuff and go but I know that he has nowhere to go. He has no job and no money. Where will he go? Under a bridge to sleep in the fog, below 0 temperatures? He'll just cultivate hatred for me.
I can't stay with him. I can't forgive him yet again because he will never stop drinking if I do and it's only a matter of time before something even worse happens.
But I don't have a heart of stone. I can't bear to see him destroyed. He is so messed up.
I also worry that if I kick him out, he will be back to stalk me. If he's in a situation where he has nothing to lose, that could be very dangerous for me. I don't know what to do.
I feel so guilty and bad about last night. I feel like I've made things worse but I also feel like he left me no choice but to involve the police.
Nobody knows anything. Only the neighbours saw him being dragged away, shouting and crying. My parents don't know anything. They live in tge UK, I am in Italy. I have no friends, just aquaintances. I feel like I'm hiding a terrible secret. I feel sick thinking about him in the cell. Thinking about what will happen to him now. I hate myself so much and I think I am so stupid and dangerous too. He is deeply in love with me even if it's a warped kind of possessive love. I am 10 years older than him and I feel like this is all on me. I have enabled him too many times, for too long and I am too soft and easily manipulated. If he cries and begs I always give in. I want to help him but I think I am killing him.
I am so so sad right now.
Thank you for a place to share.
Posts: 25,466
Hi soapdish, I'm so sorry to hear what happened to you. You did do the right thing by calling the police. So please do not feel guilty about that. You had to save yourself from harm.
In my opinion, there is no way you can let him back in to live with you. Get a restraining order from the police, pack his stuff up and ask him to leave. Give him a list of shelters he can go to along with a list of rehabs he can check into and maybe get a taxi to get him to the place of his choosing.He hasn't yet chose to get help or try to get better on his own and has never had consequences for his actions.
Can you tell your parents so you can have their support? Maybe you can see if there is an alanon meeting near you so YOU can have some support there in Italy.
Most of all, you have to do whatever you need to do for your safety and protection.
Please let us know how you are doing.
Important disclaimer: Any information in this post is not and does not constitute medical advice under any circumstances. Addiction Survivors, Inc. does not warranty or guarantee the accurateness, completeness, adequacy or currency of the information contained in or linked to the Site. Your use of information on the Site or materials linked to the Site is entirely at your own risk. NEVER take any online advice over that of a qualified healthcare provider. Any information contained on AddictionSurvivors.org should only serve to inspire further investigation with credible, verifiable references sources such as your physician or therapist.
|One User Says Thank You to NancyB For This Useful Post:
Thank You (12-18-2016)
Senior Member
Posts: 371
Hello and thank you for the kind reply. The advice is useful and thank you for the link. I have found some associations that can help him and I want him to get help.
I called the police station and they told me he isn't there now but the officer couldn't tell me if he's been released or where he is. I feel like a sitting duck but I am also terrified for him. Maybe he has been beaten by the police or maybe he made a big scene in the cell and now they've arrested him. I am so worried my hands are shaking. I know that his choices are not my responsibilty, but I fear something bad has or is happening to him. He is Moroccan and the police are notoriously hard on foreign people and are inherently racist in the area where I live. Last night one of the officers tried to make me press charges but I told him I don't want to (for fear of making my situation worse. I don't trust the justice system here) and he told me he hopes my boyfriend goes to prison. This is why I fear they may have hurt him or aren't treating him fairly, like holding him without a lawyer. Despire what he has done I don't wish him harm. I wish for him to learn from this and finally sort himself out. Kniwing him, I fear he mught have lashed out at the poluce and made hus situation even worse.
The other scenario is simply that they let him out this morning and he's waiting until it goes dark to come here, as he's probably too ashamed to face any neighbours.
I don't know if I will wait it out or check into a hotel at this point. He can get in. I fixed the door but it's only a superficial repair job and I have to wait until tomorrow to get a locksmith. This is Italy.
I can not tell my parents something like this over the phone. All it will do is break their hearts and could literally give my dad a heartattack or stroke. So no.
I am supposed to go home for Christmas on Thursday. I still want to but I don't know if I will be able to at this point.
My other situation is that I work from home. I have students coming tomorrow. If he comes making a scene when clients are here it will be disastrous. On the other hand if I cancel all tomorrow's lessons I will lose a lot if money, which I need so badly right now. Just changing the locks and repairing the door is going to cost a fortune and I still haven't paid this month's mortgage.
I don't know what I am going to do.
Thank you again everyone for reading and supporting. I am sorry to be so boring and weakminded.
Senior Member
Posts: 2,942
If you are so afraid of him to come back, he doesn't need to. You can say you have to protect yourself and he needs help. You cannot enable him. Continue to work and be vigilant in standing strong. An alcoholic preys on someone to support him and throws guilt trips at. Thinking of you. Call the police again as needed and protect yourself.
|One User Says Thank You to lostdog For This Useful Post:
Thank You (12-19-2016)
Senior Member
Posts: 1,630
Hello Soapdish,
Welcome to the Forum.
While that policeman may have appeared cruel by hoping your boyfriend gets sent to prison, being sent to a locked facility may be the best thing for him. As bad as it sounds, it might well save his life.
I would, however, much prefer a locked rehab over a jail cell any day.
As much as this entire situation is about your boyfriend's severe alcoholism, the more important character in the story--and the person in the most overt danger--is you.
Soapdish, I cannot urge you strongly enough to get OUT of this relationship. You are literally risking your life. Moreover, you're not doing him a damn bit of good by staying with him under these same-ol, repetitive circumstances. He MUST wake up to the damage he'd doing and he simply will NOT if he doesn't suffer the consequences of his actions.
See, right now, the most important thing to him, in the world, is NOT you. It is his addiction. He will tell you anything to persuade you to believe his lies. By you believing his false tales allows him to continue drinking.
It is possible that your relationship could improve. But first, HE must make a genuine effort to get better. And to get better, your boyfriend must WANT to get better---and it really doesn't sound like he wants this. I mean, WHY should he, he screws up time after time and, time after time, you allow him to come back---and screw up again.
I don't blame you, Soapdish. This entire matter is a sickness...and you are both ill.
First thing you must do, I repeat, is save your life. Give yourself, and him, some TIME to think clearly.
Best to you, Soapdish!
sam b
|One User Says Thank You to Sam Bailey For This Useful Post:
Thank You (12-19-2016)
Senior Member
Posts: 371
Thanks so much for taking the time to reply. Lost dog and Sam Bailey you are so right. Thank you for articulating the situation so well. I have read your posts over and over again and they help me feel strong. Very disappointed in myself but I see that I have let this situation go on for way too long and we're both really deeply in now.
Basically, I let people walk all over me in lots of areas in my life, not just this - work, family, random people in the street even! I am so gullible and I never stick up for myself. I'm so easily manipulated and too submissive. All the time, in everything.
Sam is so right. I have been an immense part of the problem and I absolutely must see that we both need OUT and now. We will die if we stay together like this.
I just have practical things to do now like pack his stuff up and contact a relative to pick it up. The police want to send an accompanying officer. It sounds like a good idea for my safety but it seems a bit extreme to me, rather hostile. Do i need to be hostile? I thought I would ask a neighbour to be there with me instead. I was wondering whether I should write a letter to them and put it with his stuff or give it to them in hand, or what? What should I do? I have no idea how to behave and I don't trust myself at all in decision making. I am awful at taking decisions. The living room light electrical wires are hanging down and there's a hole in the lampshade, because I haven't chosen new lighting yet. See, I just bury my head in the sand even for the little things. Hence my situation. So I'm going to be just fine by myself and for him this is a lifeline, whether he sees that now or not.
Sorry, didn't mean for this to be so long-winded. If you're still reading...
His trial will be on 23rd January. I will be called up. I think the last thing I can do for him is to push for a rehab solution not a punitive one.
The rest is up to him really.
Don't worry for me. I will be fine. If I see him, I will forgive him if that's what he wants. And so I will stay away. I will read this thread when I'm feeling weak.
So thanks again. Truly. Massive wake up call.
I don't know what your own stories are but I hope they have reached or can soon reach a good outcome for you and your loved ones.
Senior Member
Posts: 4,984
soapdish, I did not see your post until now. Yes get out of this relationship. Have the police there when his belongings are removed from where you live. It is not being hostile to have them there it shows him you are scared & are serious about him leaving you alone. Get a personal protection order against him. So many victims blame themselves in part. This is so wrong. You are in no way responsible for his breaking into your home & the times he has assaulted you in the past. STAY STRONG!!
Unless he has a criminal history he will not go to prison. He may get jail time at a local jail but no prison.
It sounds like you have a lot of things to work on about yourself. You can start addressing those things after this nightmare is taken care of.
Please stay in contact here so we can support you.
Last edited by R. Lee; 12-20-2016 at 11:50 AM..
|2 Users Say Thank You to R. Lee For This Useful Post:
Thank You (12-20-2016), Thank You (12-20-2016)
Senior Member
Posts: 1,630
Hi Soapdish!
RLee is right, 100% correct. Have a Police Officer with you at all times. Anytime that he's apt to be around, I mean.
It is NOT hostile; it's reasonable. Truth is, he has physically assaulted you! Right? Ok, so why wouldn't he do it again? Especially when his anger is likely to be raging...and his alcoholism, as likely, fully active.
Soapdish, this man does not have control of his behavior. Alcohol does!
As I noted before, your relationship, on both sides, is awfully dysfunctional. That doesn't mean, necessarily, that it can never be righted. There is that chance.
However! You BOTH need to begin healing. And doing it "together," while you're both struggling in such a dark place, is not a good idea. It never is, for no one.
I'm delighted to see that you are recognizing all the dynamics at play here. That's always the first step, KNOWING what really is going on. First you know it. Second you begin doing something to repair it.
Best to you, Soapdish!
**Edit: For the record, do not choose a neighbor over a Police Officer to watch your back. Nothing is right about that scenario. Hopefully not, but IF something physical started up, your neighbor has very little legal options...the Cop has 'em all! Not to mention that the officer is likely able to physically handle him/herself better than even the most trusted friend or neighbor. best!
Last edited by Sam Bailey; 12-20-2016 at 01:16 PM..
Senior Member
Posts: 371
Thanks for the replies to yesterday's post.
He is in prison. He wasn't released after Saturday. They are keeping him locked up until the trial on the 23rd of January and then he will be sentenced. He will either be sent to prison or put under house arrest. The system is rather complicated and I won't bore you. It is because this was the 7th time the police had been involved.
Yes I am blushing. 7 times (plus all the times I didn't call the police). I needed to wake up earlier. Dr.Jekyl and Mr.Hyde completely. I just had immense faith in the good side until the very end. He was better certainly and this is the sad thing, I thought we'd had a really good week. It was so nice with all the Christmas stuff and he helped in the house so much all week, was really kind and cheerful. That's also why I'm so sad.
I feel so guilty.
But there's no point in 'should have dones'
So in my doubts about the police escort when picking his stuff up, i meant his family will come to pick it up. I have to tell them tomorrow. I have to go to their house and tell them. I don't even know if they know. He did not have a good relationship with them. I don't know them well but I know family reputation is everything to them. Maybe they'll believe me or maybe they'll blame me. There are a lot of them, that's for sure. I don't want to aggravate the situation with a police escort.
I think I will do this: I could physically go to their house tomorrow and speak to them on the intercom and ask the brother, who I know best, to come down into a cafè and I'll just tell him what's happened over coffee.
I can't just take his stuff to their house in a car because I haven't got a driving licence. There aren't taxis. There is one person i could ask for a lift. Otherwise I'll have to get the family to pick it up. In that case, I will tell the brother a time and day and the same to the police.
Alternatively I could just go and ask the police to go and inform the family and pick his stuff up from the police station and have no contact with them whatsoever.
But that will give me absolutely no knowledge of what's happening or control over the situation so I'm reluctant to do that. I'm shaking. thinking about it.
The family could be so ashamed of him that they cut him off completely. Nobody will come and pick his stuff up or they might but not give it him. There are important documents about his case, documents, permit of stay, passport...he needs those. They might just leave him to rot away in prison.
Should I just let go? Completely? I want for him to get better, not worse. The notorious prison in Milan was built for 1000 inmates and houses 1700. That's not rehab. I am so scared. This is the worse thing that's ever happened to me, and him. What have I done?
Seriously panicking.
I'm going back to England on Thursday for a week so I have to get all of this done by then. All his clothes are on the bed in neat piles. Last night I slept on the sofa. I keep telling myself it was his fault but that's not useful. I feel like I took him under my wing and then massacred him. It seems so brutal. I miss him. But he broke my door down and scared me witless. Consequence for action. If it had been his first time he'd just have got a caution. It took the 7th time to go from jail directly to prison. It's not like I hadn't reached out for help before. I think he was just happy at the end of the week and nice all Saturday morning because he knew he was going to get pissed on Saturday evening.
When we were at the police station, he texted me "get me out of here" but he never once sent a text saying "I'm sorry" or "are you ok?2 He sent "I love you" though.
I thought they were just going to keep him overnight and release him the next day, like the other times, so i was frantically trying to get the locks changed on a Sunday. It was really weird because there was thick fog and at the riverbank Sunday mass was taking place. All you could see were ghostly figures and candle lights. Anyway, I bumped into a police officer from the last episode that took place in June and she stopped me on the bridge and told me what was happening. Not to worry that he wasn't being released and he would go in front of the judge on Monday morning. Yesterday afternoon she phoned and told me that he's been sent to prison and the trial will be on the 23rd. So no matter what, he's getting a month in prison. It should sober him up. So long as it's not that overcrowded one (it will be). Should I find out? Then I'll obsessively read scandalous news articles online and drive myself crazy. I am being melodramatic maybe. I watched the TV series Oz. Dear me!
Now the other thing is this: after the previous episode in June he got a letter saying that there was an investigation underway and it had his defense lawyer's contact on it. We met the lawyer and told him our story and he began filing the legal briefs. I have since written to this lawyer explaining what has happened and he says that he hasn't been nominated as the defense lawyer at this trial. So god knows what's happening. He might have a really shitty lawyer or he may have refused one. The good lawyer said I should get the family to contact him. I don't know if I should reach out to the family and help them navigate this nightmare of a legal system. Their Italian isn't good enough to understand it all. But who am I to say that? Keeping contact and helping the family is not letting go is it? I just want to fight for him to get into house arrest in a community centre for addicts. They do exist. I need the family to push the lawyer for that outcome. What do I do? What am I going to do?
I'm going to run away back to England. That's what I will do.
I need to go and put his stuff away and go to bed and stop panicking and remember that morning is wiser than evening.
Thanks for the support. Tomorrow I'm not working much and a friend is coming so I might tell her. It might help me if I confide in someone but I might still need you guys too. Thanks so much again.
Senior Member
Posts: 371
I met the brother and uncle and they were kind and don't blame me.
I think they have disowned my partner. It makes me so sad.
I can't be the one to help him. It can't be me. But he still needs help. He deserves help, despite what he did.
I am so sad today.
Anyway, my mistake. Court isn't 23rd January but tomorrow. He may be released or not. Police won't tell me anything because I am the "victim". ?????? Surely that is why they should tell me???
I am in England now, so I am physically safe if he gets out. I am worried about the house, but I am just trying to not worry. Not imagine him in prison. I did the stupidest thing watching prison documentaries, upsetting myself, after my last post the other evening. I am going up and down hating myself, then feeling strong, then hate again.
I wish he had chosen me and not alcohol.
I told the friend but my story made her cry and think about her uncle, who suffered from drug addiction. I got everything off my chest to, but I felt so bad for upsetting her.
Tomorrow is going to be a windy day, so I think I'll just go for a walk and shout at the wind.
I really want to text him. I won't do it, but today I nearly did.
Thanks, good night
Posts: 25,466
Hi soapdish, I'm glad you're safe with your family in England. That had to have been a big relief for his brother and uncle being kind and understanding.
You cannot be the one to help him. HE needs to help himself.
Please do not text him or have any contact with him. Please think about blocking his number so you are not tempted and you do not have to read any texts from him or accept any calls from him.
You have to do this for yourself. You have given him chance after chance after chance. In my opinion, if you contact him, he will think it's an opening for you to come back with more empty promises. Then the vicious cycle starts all over again, but with an unknown ending that you can't risk.
This is time for you to heal. For you to move on without guilt and without second guessing yourself. YOU did all YOU could. He has to do all HE can, which he hasn't.
Please take good care of YOU!
Important disclaimer: Any information in this post is not and does not constitute medical advice under any circumstances. Addiction Survivors, Inc. does not warranty or guarantee the accurateness, completeness, adequacy or currency of the information contained in or linked to the Site. Your use of information on the Site or materials linked to the Site is entirely at your own risk. NEVER take any online advice over that of a qualified healthcare provider. Any information contained on AddictionSurvivors.org should only serve to inspire further investigation with credible, verifiable references sources such as your physician or therapist.
|One User Says Thank You to NancyB For This Useful Post:
Thank You (12-23-2016)
Senior Member
Posts: 2,942
Soapdish, my heart is with you.....don't bear the burden of his rehab and his choices, I do know it is hard for you and you have full sympathies, but to get better you cannot enable him. It is not your burden to tell everyone about him,etc. You are safe, go and get counseling at al alon or private for some stability for yourself on your choices. Keep going forward as I always say. Big hug and best wishes to you.
|One User Says Thank You to lostdog For This Useful Post:
Thank You (12-23-2016)
Senior Member
Posts: 371
It's a huge burden and I deserve to carry it.
I sent another human being to prison.
It is my fault as much as his for being so stupid for so long.
Yes counselling. 70 a session squeezing a cushion telling it how I feel. No thanks.
Free option is a judgmental preachy church meeting. No thanks.
I am sorry. I didn't mean to bore. I just need help and don't know what to do.
I know my posts are virtually illegible. Thanks to those who took time to read and answer.
It is the worst thing that has ever happened to me and I am so sore.
Thanks and sorry again.
Senior Member
Posts: 1,630
Hello Soapdish,
I don't want to add to your pain, or your confusion. Yet if I don't speak honestly then I AM adding to your suffering.
So, let me say:
You are trying so damn hard to render your boyfriend the innocent party in this terrible, maybe deadly, drama that you're blind to the truth. He hurt you, Soapdish. Physically and emotionally. WHY shouldn't he face up to that truth?
Somehow, I suspect, you feel that if you hurt yourself badly enough, everything will be cosmically okay. That is not true.
I have experienced your story on many levels. Never does it work to absolve the abuser of his deeds.
In order for him to get well---and in order for the two of you to stand a freaking chance in life together---HE must face the consequences of his actions---and you must be willing to tell the truth that HE did some pretty damn bad things to you.
Any way but the right way will fail.
You don't have to spend a bunch of money in therapy, nor do you have to sit and listen to some preacher, if you don't want to do that.
Al Anon is a free organization made up of people JUST LIKE YOU, people who have experienced, or are experiencing, the alcohol related problems of addiction in a family member. They know what you're facing...and they know, first hand, just how hard it is to place the blame where it belongs....which is on him, not you.
They know this because they went through it, just as you're going through it now.
I wish you the best, Soapdish, in whatever choice you make.
sam b
Senior Member
Posts: 371
Nancy, Lostdog, Sam Bailey thanks so much. Your words are precious to me.
You are right. I know I must stop defending him and mothering him. It's out of my hands for now. My concern is not really with what I did. I firmly believe I had no choice. What he did to the solid wood door, could have been my face so I really had no choice. If it had been the first time the police had had to intervene, he would have just got a caution, he wouldn't be in prison right now. So yeah, he deserves to be there and it might just save his life..our lives.
My concern is that the prison system is horrific. He still deserves dignity and help. Not from me. I know that. I have to stop mothering.
I found an association today who work to help new inmates. They provide blankets, soap etc and orientation and counselling. So I have contacted them and I hope they can offer a lifeline to him. I just want someone to fight for rehab not just let him rot away in Milan's overcrowded prison.
It's the last thing I can do I feel. His family want nothing more to do with him.
I am keeping busy, made a completely pointless origami Xmas tree and some reindeer today. Very therapeutic and kept me out of the pub.
Mum needs help cleaning and washing so I'm just being busy. Doom and gloom never helped anyone.
There'll be good days and bad days I know that, but heck, this is not the only thing in my life and I can't let it be all-consuming. When I go back to Italy after the hols, I'm gonna redecorate and try to stop ruminating so much.
I truly thank you all for your supportive replies.
I wish everyone a very Merry Christmas. Let's all stay strong during this tempting time of year and remember that addiction, our mistakes, our pain, our hurt to ourselves and others are not the only things that define us.
Big hugs to everyone and thank you all soooooooooo much
|2 Users Say Thank You to soapdish For This Useful Post:
Thank You (12-24-2016), Thank You (12-24-2016)
Senior Member
Posts: 2,942
And a very merry Christmas to you!
|One User Says Thank You to lostdog For This Useful Post:
Thank You (12-25-2016)
Senior Member
Posts: 371
And to you!😀
Posts: 25,466
Hi soapdish, I'm glad that you realized what you did is what you NEEDED to do to, as you said, save both of you. And by contacting that organization, you gave him tools that he hopefully will choose to utilize to start in getting better.
I hope you had a peaceful Christmas and will continue to heal and take care of YOU.
Important disclaimer: Any information in this post is not and does not constitute medical advice under any circumstances. Addiction Survivors, Inc. does not warranty or guarantee the accurateness, completeness, adequacy or currency of the information contained in or linked to the Site. Your use of information on the Site or materials linked to the Site is entirely at your own risk. NEVER take any online advice over that of a qualified healthcare provider. Any information contained on AddictionSurvivors.org should only serve to inspire further investigation with credible, verifiable references sources such as your physician or therapist.
|2 Users Say Thank You to NancyB For This Useful Post:
Thank You (12-26-2016), Thank You (12-26-2016)
Senior Member
Posts: 371
Thanks for checking in on me.
I think I have known for a long time what I needed to do but having the courage to do it is another matter.
The last two days have been very hard but today I am perkier. I let myself become so rundown over the last few months that I am anaemic but the iron pills and Marmite are kicking in and now Christmas is over I am more relaxed.
Yesterday was a struggle. My dad kept asking me if I wanted a glass of flipping Champagne!
But I didn't. I just put some apple juice in fizzy water so my glass looked the same as theirs 😉
Christmas is always hard going and I admit I went to the shop on Christmas Eve purposely to buy some booze to 'take the edge off' but when I got in the shop I just bought some cat treats and came home. I am so glad. Returning to drink isn't gonna help anybody is it now?
I am sad for me and for him. But I also feel a sense of relief and hope.
I will be honest and say that there is still a long way to go. If I see him I don't trust myself to remain firm, so I must not see him now.
It's good that I am in England with my parents, distracted by their obligatory Christmas cheer.
This forum has been a real help. I mean the people on this forum have been helping me so much. I can't thank you all enough. I have been reading others' stories and I see I did the right thing: the only thing. Domestic abuse forums were not helpful when I reached out. They tend to demonise the alcoholic, but this place has helped me accept that my situation is tge result of an illness and a two-way tango. Him, his addictions and my addiction to him. I the enabler for so long. Too long.
I wrote months ago on another thread. I knew then I was on a slippery slope. He was on his last last chance and he knew it. Maybe it was indeed a cry for action. I will never know but we hit the end of the line and even if he is probably going through withdrawal alone on a cold hard prison floor, the cycle HAD TO be broken.
I will always have a sadness in me because it is sad. He is so young and so lovely when sober. But it was the only choice left and I don't need to be afraid in my own home anymore.
How are you people getting on?
I admire you all and I'm thinking of you (even if my posts are all about me, myself & I).
Big big hugs
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I realise that I've been speaking badly about some help groups out there. I just meant the ones I have personally contacted in my area. Please don't let that put YOU off from calling hotlines or joining groups available in YOUR area if you've been reading my posts.
It was just my personal experience in the area of Italy where I live.
By no means does it mean all organisations are like I described.
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Got through another day 😁
Amazing people on this forum. Stories of strength and survival.
Big big hugs to all.
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Hi and good for you to vent here. We talk a lot some days more than others. I'm glad you are doing well. Just take one day at a time and don't feel guilt yourself. You are worth it.
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The newspaper published a HORRIBLE article about it. They put my address, nationality and age so it's pretty obvious who I am.
I was so upset but I managed to find the journalist's email and I wrote to her. I couldn't believe the insensitivity. I think I wrote a good email, calm but assertive. She won't remove the article but she has modified it so at least I can't be identified.
It is just so cruel.
As if enough isn't going on in my head already.
How are you?
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Just checking in.
I know I'm rather boring.
Move on Soapdish!
Just that writing here helps me do just that. Trying not to ruminate too much.
I am returning to Italy tomorrow but this break has been good for me. Walking on the frosty beach every day. Nothing is more powerful than the sea. Highly recommend pets, walks, nature. The best kind of therapy, for me at least.
Feeling kinda anxious about going back to my empty house tomorrow. His memory is there. Evidence of the turmoil too...broken window, coffee table, door, so much stuff.
But it's only stuff.
Do I have such a low opinion of myself that I put up with such terror in my own home for so long? Or is my heart just so big I thought I could save him: my love would be enough?
Maybe I'm just a fool.
Make peace with the past and the bad choices I've made. Learn from experience and get on with life. Advice ftom you guys that I'm running through my head like a mantra.
I am going to take a bag of clothes, blankets, books and fresh fruit to the prison for him but I will leave it anonymously with a volunteer.
I want to write a letter. Do you think that's a bad idea?
I just want to say I forgive him and to forgive himself too. To take one day at a time. To be strong and fight the addiction. Is it too early? Could contact do more harm than good?
Should I hate him? Why do I forgive so easily? Because I know addiction is the demon, not him.
Am I wrong? When I used to dr ink I did so many stupid things. I endangered myself so many times, I might have shouted and ranted at people but I never hurt a fly. Is the alcohol (plus I suspect cocaine) really responsible for his abuse? Or is violence within him, augmented when high? I would like to understand. Perhaps I never will. He never hurt me when sober, that's true.
How is everyone else today?
Stay in touch.
I love you all.
Really. So proud of all you survivors.
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Hello Soapdish, read through your thread and sorry you are finding things so difficult right now. I dont think you should contact him just yet, it is too soon.
Where abouts were you in the UK? By the beach sounds lovely! Im in Manchester.
You are a strong person, please believe that.
Peace xx
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Hi soapdish, no you're not boring, it's just a bit slow around here during the holiday week. And you're not a fool. I think it's more you have a big heart and so wanted him to help him but he has to help himself.
I agree with Alexis, I think it's too soon to contact him. Also, let that agency you contacted give him clothes, blankets, etc. You really need to heal yourself. In my opinion, by doing that, he may know it was you, especially if they're his clothes from your house. Just let him find himself, work on himself and cut all contact. It's more for you to heal, move forward and sort through your feelings.
While it's true that the addiction 'makes' him do mean things, his sober self didn't do anything to help himself. I believe that is something he needs to work on while sober, hopefully he will. Who knows, maybe sometime in the far future you can be friends. But for now, you must take care of yourself and be kind to yourself first and foremost.
I hope you have a much happier 2017.
Sending hugs.
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I am listening to the precious advice.
I'm also gonna try and not be so self-absorbed!
Alexis... I'm flying from Manchester today!!! (I'm from a town near Liverpool) I will be thinking of you. Best of luck for your appointment today!
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May that town be Crosby? i do love Crosby beach if so.
You are so close, if only we were able to grab a coffee! Ill be thinking of you too. And sending you strength xx
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best wishes soapdish, send us a message soon.
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Hi soapdish, have a safe trip home. Please! You were not/are not self absorbed at all!
Be safe. Check in when you can.
Important disclaimer: Any information in this post is not and does not constitute medical advice under any circumstances. Addiction Survivors, Inc. does not warranty or guarantee the accurateness, completeness, adequacy or currency of the information contained in or linked to the Site. Your use of information on the Site or materials linked to the Site is entirely at your own risk. NEVER take any online advice over that of a qualified healthcare provider. Any information contained on AddictionSurvivors.org should only serve to inspire further investigation with credible, verifiable references sources such as your physician or therapist.
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Thanks for everyone's well wishes.
I am ok. It was a relief to find the cats well and pleased to see me.
I was very scared and I felt as if the ceiling was going to fall on me. But I told myself it's ok to be overwhelmed, it's my first night back. I rode it out and today is another day!
It was a good flight even if Ryanair are hateful. When we landed, the woman next to me dropped her suitcase on my bag and squished all my mince pies!
So that made me laugh.
I can't be arsed doing anything today but I know it's better to keep busy.
The associations haven't replied. I probably have to wait until after the 6th January. I've decided that I'm just gonna donate his stuff to them for people like him. Not specifically for him as I originally wanted to. I think you're right, contact would make everything I've done pointless. He needs a complete cut off from me and he has to suffer the consequences of his actions because he had warnings: If you come here drunk and aggressive ever again, I will lock you out. If you hurt me again I will call the police, and so I did. We both just have to live with it now.
I feel like a butterfly whose wings have been pulled off.
What a crap way to start 2017.
But it's ok. I will be fine soon. I just need to get used to being on my own and keep remembering how lucky I am and that I can be a resilient person if I set my mind to it.
Oh no! I've written another long post!
Massive hugs to everyone
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way to go !!strong, well deserved intentions for you and the new year for you.
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Happy 2017 soapdish! May it be peaceful, happy and healthy for you.
Continue being gentle with yourself and taking care of yourself. I'm very proud of you for not rescuing him once again. I see you not as a butterfly whose wings have been pulled off, but as a caterpillar metamorphosing into a beautiful butterfly.
Hugs to you!
Important disclaimer: Any information in this post is not and does not constitute medical advice under any circumstances. Addiction Survivors, Inc. does not warranty or guarantee the accurateness, completeness, adequacy or currency of the information contained in or linked to the Site. Your use of information on the Site or materials linked to the Site is entirely at your own risk. NEVER take any online advice over that of a qualified healthcare provider. Any information contained on AddictionSurvivors.org should only serve to inspire further investigation with credible, verifiable references sources such as your physician or therapist.
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How are you today Soapdish? xx
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Thanks so much for asking.
I've decided not to think about it when I'm at home alone. I just get overwhelmed and depressed.
I've decided not to worry about the future. There's no point in what ifs.
I'll just deal with whatever comes, when it comes. I will spring into action nearer to the hearing. I am scared he will want revenge and he knows my deepest fear but I'm pushing to the back of my mind otherwise I'll go mad.
This whole thing has aged me. I feel so tired. But soon I'll be ok. If I want to be, and I do. I'm grateful for every day and it's better to focus on the good things. So I feel fragile but trying to get stronger.
I don't really want to go out but I haven't got any food. Only chocolate Santas and frozen peas! But I will go out otherwise it will just get harder to do so.
So yeah being positive. Focussing on the good in my life. I know I have to let it out sooner or later but right now I just want to hold it together so my strategy is to put my head in the sand for a bit and then I'll work on myself. It's important just to stay calm and positive.
I'm happy you wrote to me Alexis. Thanks for a place to share.
Love to you
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No problem SD, happy you are here.
Do you meditate? really helps me keep calm.
And read? Nice distraction!
Yes go out and get some nice food, salad, fruit, veggies It really does help when you have all those vitamins!
Keep talking to us, we are here for you now xx
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good advice on not worrying, it is hard to do sometimes. Hope you have a nice week Soapdish, Happy New Year!
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Finished decorating. Looks much better and stopped me from moping around. Also forced me to get in the shower. Too cold to varnish the front door though!
Doing very well with the decisions. I can't look at myself in the mirror but I'm being gentle on myself. Trying to be nice and kind to myself and give myself the advice I'd give a sister or friend.
So just to say... hope you all have a lovely day.
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you are doing great SD keep it up and know we are here for you when you need help xx
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SD - please be your own best friend. Be kind to yourself. The things you say to yourself earlier in the thread... I'm willing to bet a HUGE sum of money that you would never ever say those things to or about another human being.
Self-talk can be a real ... stinker. Distracting yourself when your self-talk becomes mean is a great idea. So is reading, listening to music, trying to do math... If you are engaged in a math problem it is impossible for your brain to simultaneously be in "freak out" mode as well.
I used the above when I was going through what you are going through.
It was better when I required my self talk to only say things to myself that I would say to another friend. I know - sounds crazy.. but seriously... we are soooo mean to ourselves. It is unbelievable.
Journaling might help to... "You won't believe what my self-talk is saying right now...." Get it out, then do some math problems and come back later when you are feeling better. You will start to get perspective.
Hang in there. You've got this!
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I'm sorry you had to go through this too.
I'm just sad, worried and scared. I have had panic attacks all my life and I know how to ride them out when they come. But this feels different. It's more like genuine fear. The wind was rattling the window and I turned to jelly. From one perspective I feel strong and calm. I don't feel in danger of returning to drinking. I feel positive but then something like the wind rattling the window just sets me off suddenly even if I've been distracted and not self-talking meanly. So I think it's just due to stress and being in tbe house.
I want to move on but there are real practical matters that are stopping me. It's like there's a big raincloud overhead and I have to keep checking the sky for the thunderstorm.
I got a letter on Thursday from the court saying that I haven't nominated a defense lawyer and that I have 20 days to view the legal briefs and build a case in opposition of the case being archived.
So I don't know. What does that even mean? Why do I need a lawyer? How is going to look at some legal documents going to be vonstructive?
So what do I do? Get a lawyer, press charges, let this drag on for months and take over my life. To what end? To make sure he gets sent away for a while? It feels so cruel and wrong.
If I just ignore it he could be out in a month. I really don't think a month sober is enough for him. It was forced sobriety too. Not exactly his choice. I don't know. He might be very angry too and come back to hurt me.
How can I know? I don't know what to do. I am just waiting.
I think I should stay informed about where he is but I don't want to get a lawyer and go into the jungle of the Italian legal system.
So that's all really. Rather repetitive. Just the arrival of the letter dragged up the reality of the situation.
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Good morning dear Soapdish....errr...yup, still the morning in my dear ole Blighty. The brightest of blessings to you.
I need to be forgiven here in that i had no idea what was going on for you recently. Truly i didn't. Your eloquence leaves me in no doubt that what is going on at the moment is right next to ****king horrible.
There are so many things i want to share with you around this, and as you know Tryn will read between all the lines, and i will get there.
Firstly there is a connection with yourself you need....and are not recognising you have. These circumstances came about from your courage.
In circumstances on the journey of life, how many times do we find ourselves in a situation that we did not ask for, can not understand why we are here, and thus feel so very resentful that the journey appears to be stinking of rotten fish? When those circumstances are affairs of the heart....when love has been given so there is nothing left.......you are left with the metaphorical "bill" to-boot.
Back in the day i went to court as a victim along with another 17 boys. The world was promised to us, our bravery communicated in God like hushes.......and the whole shebang/case "collapsed".... it amounted to a hill of beans.......and our "bravery" was ushered out of court and disposed of as quickly as possible so it was.
I drank for a couple of decades on that. A bit like having done something amazing in life and folk say...."i bet you dined out free on that for awhile!".....i did so because i regretted....while drinking.... every...single....minute of it.
I am 51 in March, 1 day at a time i chose abstinence, and i look back on my journey and through sober eyes?......God it was hard. I regret precisely nothing.
If i could i would drag those now dead ****ers back through court.....look at me......so i would.
I would not do so because i was "brave"...."courageous".....not because i seek revenge.....simply because i have found my voice and it deserves to be heard. Within that process resides...."me".
Lawyers and whatnot should be seen as what ifs and never minds.....they are specifically there to empower your voice to be heard and to fiddle around with the bullshit....(da law)...that they seem to think is dreadfully important...which of course it has to be. In their own way they seek justice and truth. In doing so the perpetrator, the accused... has nowhere left to run.
The fears around another, stalking....threatening.....the very fact of "could do...might do"....is the shackles still binding your strength like Samsons hair.
Make no mistake, you have been put in this position in yourself, and on the journey of your life by another. If....and it is a big if, the process of courts and lawyers is something your voice feels a need to do....then do it.
If not....your own voice will give you an alternative pathway. Follow it if that is the case.
The point i am trying to make is trust you...believe you....hear your voice and follow your heart.
That is all.
Be peaceful, be healthy and be strong. Loveness to you dear Soapdish.
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Thank you so much for taking the time to answer my thread. I am sorry that you and those other boys were victims and I appreciate you sharing your experience here with me.
There is a lot of wisdom in your writing.
The thing is, if I follow my heart, I will write a letter to him. I will go to visit him and I will never let go. So I don't trust my heart. I don't want to listen to my gut anymore. The feeling of betrayal and that this is my fault resurfaces. So I think I have to ignore my heart for a little while. I need to detach emotionally and just keep repeating that it was the right thing, the only thing to do.
So I will listen to my head and try to be intelligent instead of an emotional wreck.
Damn right about the whatifs being shackles! You write beautifully and I really appreciated the metaphor.
Since I came back from England I've been smoking a lot of pot. I realise that this is a rubbish idea but it has helped me have an appetite and to sleep, even if I've just been crashing on the sofa.
I realise that this is rather self-,destructive and not the way forward so I'm not going to buy anymore.
I just keep chewing over everything that's happened -ruminating- as a way to digest it. Hence writing down all these thoughts here and smoking pot. I'm trying to get it out if my systen. Rereading my posts I see that I'm just going around in circles.
But it's like I need to keep working through my thoughts until I'm exhausted and bored of thinking about it and then I can stop and let go.
I'm nearly there.
Now I have to be more active in quashing the negative thoughts and staying strong. When I can think about the situation with emotional detachment and clarity, I will know what to do and how to behave.
Thanks so much for listening to me!
Have a lovely Sunday
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Oh gosh...I sound so snooty in my post! Sorry about that!
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Note to self: stop apologizing all the time
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Good afternoon dear Soapdish. Bright blessings to you.
Something very, very important that you shared.....
"...when i can think about the...(a).... situation with emotional detachment and clarity, i will know what to do and how to behave"......
Yes, yes you will....without emotion....and the type of clarity....it provides. Like the pendulum of "doing what you have always done....." tick..tocks....tick...tocks....so the clock can be re-set.
Deeper still...yourself...your self worth. Your journey that still in all of us, as for you, carry's the child that will ever be us within us, our maturity simply acting as a parent to ourselves whilst still letting the child out to feel safe, and to play.
We talk of self confidence, self esteem and lack of it as you know between us all.....yet take yourself not back in time perse....yet to the inward child that climbed those trees with no fear.....that passed animals by without knowledge or terror, that confidence and self esteem were the very cradles inwhich you slept.....so it is in you now. Right now.
I am not sure were "too snooty came from".....maybe too much pot smoke up yer schozzle!
There are 2 important components to cannabis. THC.....and i think CDT? Now THC is what gets you stoned, and CDT is medicinally ever so useful. Nowhere in the world will you find any exponent of cannabis suggest that smoking cannabis is in anyway "good"for you. Taking it, a different story.
My qualifications for this letter lay in a human bod that used to roll a big fat spliff before i went to bed specifically for when i woke up in the morning. Not to mention the spliffs for bed.
So i would wake up on Larrys living room floor....reach over.....have a few puffs....get up....go to the fridge.....drink. I got to a stage where my addiction had morphed and i could not consider a drink without pot, and i could not smoke pot without a drink.
Boy was that a depressant time.
When i thought of my sobriety i thought it meant stopping drinking. I did.....then started drinking again. And so the cycle churned around. "Oh i'll give up drinking, yet not smoking pot or ciggys"....i need them.
I couldn't.
It ended up, and my brothers Saint and R Lee are incumbent around this, that it really had nothing to do with "giving up anything"....moreover taking up something. Health and well being. The alternative at times feels like hiding in a hiding place...and just waiting for lifes punches to come. Most of them come along in the form of folk.
I have literally hidden in doorways as i describe. Both physically and deep inside me. Now i am "out"....free. Hand on my heart the only thing more scary than walking out of hiding places.....is being in them.
So many hearts on on your side......add yours to the list.
You are a brave soul.....use it for you.
Be peaceful, be healthy and be strong. Loveness to you dear Soapdish
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Good morning,
How are you?
I am ok.
Thanks for your message Tryntryagain.
His brother came yesterday to get his stuff. Only problem he came on foot, not by car. I'd told him there were a lot of bags. Nincompoop! So anyway, he didn't take all the bags. They are still cluttering my bedroom but nevermind, a few more days. I decided not to take anything to the prison myself. His family can do it. His brother said nobody from the family has been to see Abdul in prison yet but that he would be going today for the first time, and so he took one bag of clothes and towels. He didn't have any other news.
I gave the brother a list of local associations and social services but I could tell he didn't want to talk about it to me. I asked after his mum & dad. He said they are fine. So I dunno. It's out of my hands now.
I will just keep tabs on where Abdul is, but I'm not getting a lawyer.
Something quite strange happened.
I sometimes do translations for extra cash and this weekend I had one from a psychotherapist. It was all about anxiety, panic attacks, PTSD and the path to wellness. Coincidence! Anyway, it was about regressive hypnosis as a strategy for working through such issues. I was wondering if anybody has tried such an approach?
Love and healing
And a beautiful day to all
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a wonderful thing happened this morning.
On my way to work, cycling along a busy road, I saw a little brown thing flickering on the tarmac. As I got closer I saw that it was a little injured robin redbreast in the middle of the road.
I put my brakes on and blocked the road, while I picked it up and carried it to the side and I gently put it under a big plant away from the road. I got on my bike, wished the robin well and cycled off to work, hoping little robin would make it.
On my way back, some 3 hours later, I was just approaching the plant on my bike, when from under the exact bush flew a little robin. I was still riding, slowly now, and the robin flew onto a nearby fence, chirped and flew off.
It might not have been my robin. It might not have been waiting for me. It may have been a coincidence but I prefer to think of it as a message. Like he was telling me that everything will be ok soon.
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oh how sweet, I really am glad you are viewing things this way. You are a nice kind person and I wish you the best
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ah what a lovely little tale of the robin!! A lovely sign as you say, i hope you take some strength from that and keep moving forward.
Love and peace to you xx
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Rolls-Royce has won another US military contract. Questor says buy.
Questor says: Buy
Dispelling some concerns about global defence spending, on Friday Rolls-Royce won a $52.2m (£32.6m) contract with the US Marine Corps to repair and maintain engines.
Of course, military spending is currently going through a squeeze, but budgets are unlikely to wither away completely.
Rolls, which generated a fifth of its sales in 2011 from defence, should escape the worse of the cuts. The turbine maker provides critical equipment and benefits form long-term contracts to maintain the engines and replace their parts. Indeed, 53pc of group sales is generated by such recurring services.
Demand for military engines over the next 20 years could be around $155bn, Rolls estimates, and for services and support equipment $260bn.
However, civil aviation looks set to boom. According to data from the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), some 2.9bn people used air transport in 2012. The highest growth was seen in the Middle East and the ICAO expects the industry will see 6bn people flying each year by 2030.
There should also be good growth in Rolls' marine business, where it makes systems for offshore oil and gas, merchant and naval vessels. Its power generation business, which designs and manufacturers turbines for nuclear, oil and gas power plants also has strong prospects.
Rolls is currently facing a probe by the Serious Fraud Office looking into allegations of bribery in Asia. It is impossible to predict the outcome of any such investigation. It is something of which investors should be aware but it should eventually be resolved and Rolls is co-operating.
The shares are trading on a December 2013 earning multiple of 14.2 falling to 13. The prospective yield is 2.4pc. The shares are a buy.