text:
- This event has passed.
SERC TALKS: What Lives at the Intersection of MOSA (Modular Open System Architecture) and Set-Based Design?
Wednesday, October 19, 2016 @ 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm EDT
Speaker: Dr. Gary Witus, Associate Director for Student Programs, Anderson Institute; Associate Professor (Research), Industrial and Systems Engineering, College of Engineering, Wayne State University | CONTACT
Dr. Witus will be discussing Modular Open System Acquisition, Set Based Design, and Model-Based Systems Engineering in reference to an Advanced Technology Demonstrator development program which attempted to employ these concepts. The system was divided into five functional subsystems and contracted out to five vendors, with a sixth contract for system integration. The companies did not have contractual relationships with each other, only with the Government agency. In principle, this approach would align the structure of the engineering organization with the functional architecture of the system (rather than, as often happens, the system architecture mirroring the structure of the executing organization), enable contracting with the most highly qualified technology developer for each subsystem, and facilitate competitive bid should the technologies be transferred to a program of record. Several issues and challenges became apparent during the engineering development. Significantly more time and effort was required for consensus on the interface specifications. While the contractors were required to make their subsystems compatible, there was no such requirement for the engineering models of the subsystems. The engineering models were considered proprietary, and shared in a "software as a service" model. Substantial translation was required to convert the outputs from one model to the inputs to another, with loss of resolution in the process. The decomposition into subsystems was good for some engineering management decisions, but not others. The dependencies between subsystems depended on subsystem architecture choices. There was not sufficient information to determine the appropriate order of decisions in down-selecting set-based design option. Guidelines for set-based design down selection were unclear, in part due to multiple goals on the part of different stakeholders. Limitations in addressing dependencies between subsystems under different design approaches led to multiple iterations to resolve conflicts, which was aggravated by lack of an engineering workflow map. In addition to discussing these and other observations, Dr. Witus presented preliminary recommendations for methods, procedures, and tools that would help overcome these challenges. Following the SERC Workshop on "MOSA: Towards Cost Effective Acquisition Strategies" held on October 5th, we hope conversation generated from this discussion will be continued. Please feel free to bring your input and perspective to this discussion. Please note the date has been rescheduled (to October 19th) to incorporate the findings of a related SERC Workshop. We encourage attendees from the workshop to participate in this discussion and continue the conversation as well as those who were unable to join the workshop to bring their insight to this widened audience.
Dr. Witus has over 35 years of experience in applied Systems Engineering and Operations Research, primarily in Department of Defense applications. He was formerly the Chief Engineer for Systems Analysis at General Dynamics Land Systems, and led systems analysis in support of the M1A1 and M1A2 Abrams tank programs, among others. He was founder and Chief Scientist at Turning Associates, mobile robot technology development firm, from 1996 to 2006. Since joining Wayne State University, he has led the College of Engineering's participation in the Systems Engineering Research Center (SERC) - a consoritum of Universities led by Stevens Institute of Technology. The SERC is a DoD-sponsored University Affiliated Research Center. His research areas in the SERC include Modular Open System Architecture planning, Model-Based Systems Engineering, and Tradespace and Affordability modeling. Dr. Witus is the Associate Director of the Anderson Engineering Ventures Institute in the College of Engineering, where he provides mentoring and coaching, to student and faculty, and assists in opportunity identification and team formation.


text:
Export buttons
Last modified by Marius Dumitru Florea on 2022/11/29
Add a button in the export menu
The extension point adds the content inside the current page export menu.
This Extension Point is contributed by this extension and was added in version 7.4-milestone-1 of that extension.
- Category
- Export
- Extension Id
- org.xwiki.plaftorm.menu.export.buttons
- Content to be provided
Usually provide a link styled as a button.
It should look like this:{{velocity}}
#set($myURL = <calculate the URL based on the current document>)
[[My Format>>$myURL||class="btn btn-primary"]]
- Parameters to be provided
- category: the category in which to put your button. Current the supported categories is office. If not set UIX will be inserted in the Others category

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Why KINGDOM WEAR?
The birth of the brand went through a few iterations before it became Kingdom Wear. The foundation is the most critical piece when it comes to building something worth believing that will stand the test of time. We set out to build designs that embody being a Christian (Christ-like). The Word of God specifically points us to seek first the Kingdom of God and everything else is just a secondary aspiration.
Reaching for the Kingdom of God is the pinnacle of living and nothing else matters than attaining that along with God's Righteousness because that is the equation that makes it complete as the scripture says, "Seek first the 'Kingdom of God' and 'His Righteousness', and…"; This combination of seeking the Kingdom and God's Righteousness gives us the realization that all the things we seek genuinely because God knows we have need of those things are simply promised as essentials that will be added, if we put the Kingdom of God First on the priority list.
Our mission is to create designs that help every christian feel the power that is already given by God through the infilling of His Spirit within us to be the witness He has called us to be. The goal of Kingdom Wear is to share the Love of God everywhere, every day, and that is why this brand was created.


text:
11. How to Protect Ourselves from Spiritual ThreatsRelated Media
Finally, my brothers, rejoice in the Lord! It is no trouble for me to write the same things to you again, and it is a safeguard for you. Watch out for those dogs, those men who do evil, those mutilators of the flesh. For it is we who are the circumcision, we who worship by the Spirit of God, who glory in Christ Jesus, and who put no confidence in the flesh (Philippians 3:1-3)
How do we protect ourselves from spiritual threats? How do we protect the church?
When I was a child living in my parents' house, like many children, I felt that my father always repeated himself. There were always a few things he constantly repeated. He would commonly tell me to not hang around bad kids because they would get me in trouble. He also constantly reminded me to lock the door to our house so no one would break in and steal things. As a child and later a high school student, I remember always saying, "Yes, of course, Dad. I got it. I know." Moreover, I remember after college I was moving into a new apartment, as I was about to start seminary in Chicago, and my parents stayed with me for a night. As my parents were about to depart and drive back to Texas, my dad said to me, "Don't hang around any bad people and make sure you lock your doors." In my mind I thought, "I am a grown man. You don't need to tell me this." However, I just said, "Yes, Dad. Thanks for the tip."
In this text, we see Paul's fatherly care for the Philippians and like many fathers he repeats himself in order to protect the Philippians. He said, "Finally, my brothers, rejoice in the Lord! It is no trouble for me to write the same things to you again, and it is a safeguard for you" (Phil 3:1).
What is he repeating? Commentators are divided on that. Some think he is talking about his exhortation to "rejoice in the Lord." Others think he is focusing on the call to beware of false teachers. Which is it? It is probably better to look at the entire section of verses 1-3 as part of Paul's holy repetition in seeking to protect the Philippians. Paul's desire is to protect the Philippians and their faith in God.
How do we protect our faith and the faith of those around us? Some things in our spiritual life should be repeated over and over again. We need to repeat them to ourselves and also to others for protection. As Christians, there are many threats to our spiritual lives. We have a threat from within. We have a flesh that we must battle against at all times (Gal 5:17). We have the world system that constantly tempts and at times even persecutes us (1 John 2:15-17). We have an enemy in the devil seeking to lure us away from God and his plan for our lives (2 Tim 2:26). Also, we must not forget the general consequences of sin on this earth, as we all encounter various trials and tribulations. Life bears thorns and thistles instead of the fruit we have worked for (Gen 3:17-18). Life is hard at times and these difficulties can be threats to our faith. Because of all these realities, there is a need to protect our faith.
In this text, we will see several principles about guarding our faith and others'.
Big Question: According to Paul, what principles must we practice in order to remain safe and protect ourselves from spiritual threats?
Believers Protect Themselves by Remaining in Fellowship
Finally, my brothers, rejoice in the Lord! It is no trouble for me to write the same things to you again, and it is a safeguard for you. (Philippians 3:1)
When Paul says "finally," it is better translated '"furthermore," "so then," or "now then." It is a word of transition, not conclusion, since half of Philippians follows it.1 Paul is marking a change in thought and focus. Paul here calls the Philippians "brothers" and then seeks to protect them by instruction. The implication of both Paul calling them "brothers" and then seeking to challenge them is that his relationship with the Philippians was part of their protection. As a loving family member, he sought to protect his spiritual brothers and sisters from various threats to their spiritual health. The Philippians had a form of protection in their fellowship with Paul and one another.
This is true for us as well. If we do not remain in healthy fellowship with believers who will hold us accountable, we are vulnerable to various attacks. The spiritual life is not meant to be walked alone. God has given us spiritual fathers, mothers, brothers, and sisters to help us grow and also to protect us from things that might draw us away from God (cf. 1 Tim 5:1-2).
Similarly, the disciples lived in a close relationship with one another and with Christ as a protection. Christ constantly warned and exhorted them as a protection. He told them to beware of the leaven of the Pharisees (Mark 8:15). He told them to not worry about what they would eat, drink, or wear (Matt 6:25). Jesus was protecting them, just like Paul was with the Philippians. His relationship with them was a form of accountability. However, it also seems as though Christ needed this fellowship as well. On the night he was betrayed, he called three of his disciples to pray with him because he was weary unto death (Matt 26:3). He needed their prayers. As a man he was dependent upon the accountability relationships with his disciples; he needed their support.
We see the need for fellowship and accountability relationships throughout Scripture. Paul also said this:
Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore him gently. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted. Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. (Galatians 6:1-2)
Paul reminded the brothers in Galatia of their need to restore those caught in some sin. Similarly, in Matthew 18 Christ taught the need for us both individually and corporately as a church to hold people accountable as a protection from sin. Listen to what he said:
"If your brother sins against you, go and show him his fault, just between the two of you. If he listens to you, you have won your brother over. But if he will not listen, take one or two others along, so that 'every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.' If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church; and if he refuses to listen even to the church, treat him as you would a pagan or a tax collector. (Matthew 18:15-17)
If a person is in sin, one should go and show him his fault. If he will not listen, one should bring another person. Then, if he still does not listen, one should bring it to the church. Finally, if this person continues in sin, then the church should discipline him by treating him as a pagan or tax collector—essentially removing the person from their fellowship.
One of the ways we protect ourselves is by remaining in the fellowship. As soon as a person starts to drift away from church and Christian fellowship in general, they are on dangerous ground. Paul, as the Philippians' older brother in the Lord, sought to warn them and protect them.
Who holds you accountable? How do you respond when somebody challenges or warns you? Who do you challenge? Proverbs says, "faithful are the wounds of a friend" (Prov 27:6). Sometimes it may mean hurting somebody's feelings when you warn or challenge them, but these wounds are faithful and necessary for protection.
I think we see the importance of this in Paul's relationship with the Philippians and how he spoke to them as a loving brother. If we are going to protect ourselves, we must have healthy fellowship.
Application Question: Why are accountability relationships and genuine church fellowship so important? How do we develop these relationships? Who are your accountability partners?
Believers Protect Themselves by Guarding Their Joy
Finally, my brothers, rejoice in the Lord! It is no trouble for me to write the same things to you again, and it is a safeguard for you. (Philippians 3:1)
The next protection for the Philippians was their joy in the Lord. As their older spiritual brother, Paul calls for the Philippians to "rejoice in the Lord." Many have seen joy as the major theme of the epistle. In chapter 1, he mentioned joy several times. He says he always prays with joy because of their partnership in the gospel (Phil 1:4-5). Concerning whether he would die or live, he said he was convinced it was God's will for him to stay for their progress and joy in the faith (1:25). In Philippians 2:17-18, he declared how he rejoiced in his sacrifice for them and commands them to rejoice as well. Even though Paul was in prison, his heart was protected by his joy in the Lord, and he wanted them to be protected as well. In fact, he will repeat this call for the church to have joy in Philippians 4:2. He says, "Rejoice in the Lord, again I say rejoice."
Why is the joy of the Lord so important for our faith? Why is it a protection from various spiritual threats? First of all, we should understand that this joy is not a joy in circumstances. It is a joy regardless of circumstances. A Christian can rejoice in poverty, loss, failure, heart-break, etc., because this joy is based on our relationship with the Lord. It overflows from our relationship with God. It is a fruit of the Spirit (Gal 5:22). As we are abiding in God's Spirit, he gives us joy.
Why is it a protection? Paul's command to rejoice in the Lord as a protection or a "safeguard" tells us that a loss of joy in the Lord is a sure pathway into sin and an open door for the enemy. The reality is if we lose our joy in Christ, we will try to find it somewhere outside of our relationship with him. For example, when the prodigal son was no longer content with his relationship with his father and the father's provisions, he left the father's house to find his joy and satisfaction in sin (Luke 15). If we lose our joy in Christ, we will be tempted to do the same.
This was exactly Satan's strategy in the Garden of Eden. What was Adam's and Eve's joy in the garden? It was the Lord—joy in his person, his provisions, and his blessing. Therefore, Satan's temptation was essentially an attack on their joy. He wanted them to not trust God. He wanted them to think God was actually there to keep them from having joy. Satan said, "Did God say you could not eat from 'every' tree in the garden?" He tried to make God's command feel overbearing. He then attacked God's character. He said, "You will not surely die, but you will be like God."
This is Satan's attack against us. He wants us to lose our joy in the Lord. He wants us to focus on every trial, every bad situation, and every circumstance that is not ideal, because when we do that, we lose our protection. There is protection; there is power in our joy in the Lord.
Nehemiah said this in speaking to the Israelites who were mourning during the revival God brought in Israel: "Do not grieve, for the joy of the LORD is your strength" (Neh 8:10b). He said that the joy of the Lord is our strength. Therefore, to not rejoice in the Lord would be to weaken ourselves and make us vulnerable to discouragement, sin, and various other maladies of the evil one.
Application Question: How do we maintain our joy in the Lord?
1. Believers maintain their joy "in" the Lord by focusing on their relationship with God.
We learn how to maintain our joy in the Lord by noticing the small preposition "in." Our joy is "in" the Lord. We must constantly seek fellowship with Christ. We must constantly abide in his Word, fellowship, worship, etc. If we are not constantly developing our relationship with Christ, we cannot have joy. Joy is a fruit of the Spirit which comes from walking in the Spirit (Gal 5:16, 22). Therefore, if we are not walking with the Lord, we cannot have joy.
2. Believers maintain their joy in the Lord by choosing not to indulge in hazards to their relationship with God.
If focusing on our relationship with God is the positive action needed to have joy, then rejecting everything that would hinder that relationship is the negative action. It means choosing to not worry, to not be anxious, to not live in sin, to not live in discord with others, to not meditate on ungodly things which steal our joy, etc. David said, "If I cherished iniquity in my heart the Lord would not have heard me" (Psalm 66:18). Sin hindered his relationship with God and therefore quenched his joy.
Personally, I have to be very careful about worry and anxiety. It can be anxiety about the future, a relationship conflict, or a task needing to be completed. Proverbs says, "Anxiety in the heart of man brings depression" (Prov 12:25). We must zealously guard ourselves from anything that would hinder our relationship with God. Maintaining our joy is both a fruit of developing intimacy with God and also rejecting anything that would hinder that relationship.
Do you have joy in the Lord? Or have you lost it? To lose it means to be in a dangerous position spiritually.
Application Question: What are major threats to your joy in the Lord? How do you practically maintain this joy? Have you seen or experienced how a loss of joy in the Lord is a doorway to all types of sin?
Believers Protect Themselves by Living in the Word of God
Finally, my brothers, rejoice in the Lord! It is no trouble for me to write the same things to you again, and it is a safeguard for you. (Philippians 3:1)2
The next principle that Paul gives for guarding the believer's spiritual life is living in the Word of God. He gives this by implication. Essentially, the Philippians would be guarded by reading the writing of the letter he sent them, the book of Philippians, and putting the truths into practice. He says "to write the same things" to them again was a safeguard. The letter itself was meant to help protect the Philippians.
It is the same for us; one of the primary ways we guard ourselves spiritually is by a life lived in the Word of God. It has been said that "The Word of God will keep you from sin or sin will keep you from the Word of God." You can't have both. A person who is not walking with God will not desire to read the Bible and won't desire to go to a church where the Bible is preached. However, a person growing in his relationship with God will love being in the Word of God. One's relationship with the Word of God is a spiritual thermometer. It shows where our spiritual life really is. If we are growing in the knowledge of Scripture, we will be guarded from many threats of the enemy, but if we are not growing, we are vulnerable.
Application Question: In what ways does the Word of God protect the believer from sin?
1. The Word of God is a protection because it exposes sin.
Hebrews 4:12 says, "For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart." Living in the Word of God is like having surgery. As it cuts us, it reveals wrong heart attitudes: pride, anger, unforgiveness, etc. James compares living in the Word of God to looking into a mirror (James 1:23-25). It reveals all our sins and shortcomings. Some people aren't even aware of compromise in their life because they are not letting the mirror of God's Word reflect on them. The Word of God is necessary to expose sin so we can confess it and abandon it.
2. The Word of God is a protection because it enables us to stand against temptation.
David said this: "I hide your word in my heart so I might not sin against thee" (Psalm 119:11). David practiced the discipline of memorizing Scripture in order to protect him from lust, anxiety, retaliation, etc. Hiding the Word of God in our heart is a protection for us as well.
3. The Word of God is a protection because it enables us to stand against spiritual warfare.
When Jesus was tempted in the wilderness by Satan, he continually spoke the Word of God to combat the enemy's lies (Matt 4:1-10). Scripture actually teaches that the Word of God is the "sword of the Spirit" (Eph 6:17). It is the very weapon the Spirit uses to defeat the devil. We must know the Word of God thoroughly so we can win our spiritual battles.
4. The Word of God is a protection because it helps us grow into maturity.
Paul taught this in Ephesians 4:11-15:
It was he who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to prepare God's people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ. Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of men in their deceitful scheming. Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ.
Paul said that the very reason God gave gifted teachers to the church was to help the church mature out of spiritual childhood. Spiritual children are prone to danger. They are especially prone to fall into false teaching (v. 14). However, the Word of God, as taught through spiritual leaders, helps spiritual children mature and therefore protects them from various temptations.
If we are going to stay safe, if we are going to protect ourselves from various spiritual threats, we must be people of God's Word. It exposes sin. It helps us fight against temptation and spiritual warfare, and it helps us mature in Christ.
Application Question: In what ways have you experienced the Word of God as a protection from spiritual threats? Describe your spiritual disciplines with the Word of God.
Believers Protect Themselves by Watching Out for False Teachers
Watch out for those dogs, those men who do evil, those mutilators of the flesh (Philippians 3:2)
Again, we see Paul using repetition to protect the Philippians. He says, "Watch out for those dogs, those men who do evil, those mutilators of the flesh." He is using repetition for the sake of emphasis. Essentially, he is saying, "Watch out for those dogs, watch out for those men who do evil, watch out for those mutilators of the flesh."
Most likely, Paul is referring to a group of false teachers called the Judaizers. When the gospel began to spread in the book of Acts, a group of "professing" Jewish Christians taught a need for Gentiles to practice the Mosaic Law in order to be saved. Salvation was not by faith alone. We see this conflict at the Antioch church in Acts 15:1. It says, "Some men came down from Judea to Antioch and were teaching the brothers: 'Unless you are circumcised, according to the custom taught by Moses, you cannot be saved.'" This brought Paul and Barnabas into a sharp debate with them, and because of this, Paul and other representatives went to the Jerusalem church to seek the counsel of the apostles. The apostle James gave the final decision on this situation. He said,
"It is my judgment, therefore, that we should not make it difficult for the Gentiles who are turning to God. Instead we should write to them, telling them to abstain from food polluted by idols, from sexual immorality, from the meat of strangled animals and from blood. For Moses has been preached in every city from the earliest times and is read in the synagogues on every Sabbath." (Acts 15:19-21)
The Gentiles were not commanded to practice the Jewish law and circumcision as a means of salvation. But, they were to practice sensitivity regarding Jewish customs (meat from strangled animals, blood, etc.) in order to not offend the Jews living in various cities. Essentially, they were asked to practice the law of love (cf. Romans 14:21).
However, even though there was a clear ruling on this issue, it did not stop these false teachers. They essentially followed Paul everywhere he went, seeking to corrupt the churches with a false gospel. In fact, the entire letter of Galatians confronts this false teaching. Paul said this:
But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach a gospel other than the one we preached to you, let him be eternally condemned! As we have already said, so now I say again: If anybody is preaching to you a gospel other than what you accepted, let him be eternally condemned! (Galatians 1:8-9)
As for those agitators, I wish they would go the whole way and emasculate themselves! (Galatians 5:12)
Paul speaks very aggressively towards them. He says anybody who preaches another gospel should be accursed. He also said he wished that those who preached the need for circumcision should go all the way and emasculate themselves.
This is very important to notice because in today's culture we have become so focused on "tolerance" and "love" that very few ever sound the alarm about false teaching. To teach that the Jehovah's Witnesses, the Mormons, or the Roman Catholics teach a false gospel is considered unloving. People who hear teaching like this often become offended. However, let us be clear that this is not the way Paul felt as a good shepherd protecting his sheep. And, because these warnings are written in Scripture, we can be sure that this is not the way God feels either. Anybody that teaches a gospel other than salvation by faith through grace alone should be eternally condemned.
Now, I know this is hard to hear, but we must hear it because this is what God teaches. If we don't hear it, then we will not be heeding the serious warning that Paul gives. He essentially says beware, beware, beware. Christ taught the same thing.
"Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves. By their fruit you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? Likewise every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. (Matthew 7:15-17)
Jesus said you will know them by their fruits. If you watch long enough, their works will manifest their inward nature. You will be able to tell who the false teachers are.
Observation Question: In what ways does Paul describe the false teachers? What can we learn from these characteristics?
"Watch out for those dogs, those men who do evil, those mutilators of the flesh" (Philippians 3:2).
1. Beware of teachers that try to steal believers from the church.
When Paul called these false teachers "dogs," he was saying they were like scavengers. This is a different word than what Christ used to refer to the Gentile woman in the gospels who asked him to heal her daughter (Matt 15:26-27). There he used the word for pet dogs.2 Here Paul refers to dogs that ran in packs, fed on garbage, stole food, and at times even attacked humans. Therefore, they were hated and feared. Paul compared the false teachers to these scavengers. They try to steal people from God's church. Most times their converts are not unbelievers; they are those who profess Christ in the church. Jesus similarly called them wolves in sheep's clothing (Matt 7:15). This meant they would constantly come and try to steal sheep from the flock. Paul said this to Timothy about them:
They are the kind who worm their way into homes and gain control over weak-willed women, who are loaded down with sins and are swayed by all kinds of evil desires, always learning but never able to acknowledge the truth. (2 Timothy 3:6-7)
These teachers would go into homes while the husbands were away and seek to manipulate the women with their teachings and gain control over them. False teachers are prone to spiritual abuse—they seek to control people.
2. Beware of teachers that exalt a particular nation or people group and demean others.
Another implication of the descriptor "dogs" is that these Judaizers taught that the Jewish race was superior to other races. The word "dog" was a common racial slur used by Jews for Gentiles. Jewish men would wake up every morning and say, "Thank you, God, that I am a man and not a woman, a Jew and not a gentile dog." There was tremendous hostility between Jews and Gentiles. Paul was using irony by calling these Judaizers dogs—the same name they used of the Gentiles.
Yes, in a sense, God called the Jews to be his special people—his kingdom of priests on the earth (Exodus 19:6). They were to be the stewards of the Word of God, the temple, and the worship. But, they were meant to be servants of everybody else—missionaries and not exalted kings. They were selected based on God's electing purposes (cf. Deut 7:7-8, Rom 9:3-5), not anything special they had done.
This is a common belief among false teachers and false religions. They often exalt a particular race or people group. I remember being in undergrad and one preacher came on campus teaching how black people were the race of Shem (cf. Gen 9:26)—God's chosen people. All of a sudden, people from our Christian fellowship, specifically African Americans, began to follow this man thinking that they were very special. This teaching is very seductive because of our natural pride and desire to be exalted (cf. Gen 3:5). Certainly, we see this with the Nazi's, the KKK, other supremacist groups, and many cults. They exalt themselves and consider everybody else dogs. Beware of teachings that exalt one nation or people group over others.
3. Beware of teachers that teach a works salvation.
Paul calls them "evil workers." Again, he seems to be using irony. These teachers taught salvation by practicing the Jewish law—a works righteousness. However, Paul confronted them by saying their works were really evil. They were evil because their works perverted the gospel, and any good works they had would never be accepted by God. Isaiah said that "even our righteousness is as filthy rags" before God (Isaiah 64:6).
We see works salvation taught in many groups. You can be saved by faith plus baptism. You can be saved by faith plus taking the Lord's Supper. You can be saved by faith plus other good works. Works salvation essentially is the hallmark of every religion except true Christianity. Every religion says "do this" or "do that" and you can be saved. But, Christianity says it is "all done." Everything you need to be saved has already been done by Christ. The good works you needed to be acceptable by God were completed by Jesus while on the earth (cf. Matt 3:15, 2 Cor 5:21). The punishment necessary for your sin, Jesus bore on the cross. All you need to do is accept his finished work and follow him as your Lord (cf. Rom 10:13).
We must beware of teachers that say Christ's work is not enough. They say, "You must join this church. You must do this or that, and you will be saved." No. Everything has been done. One must put his faith in Christ as sufficient for salvation and follow him as Lord. That is all one must do to be saved. Beware of teachers that preach a works salvation.
4. Beware of teachers that practice a sinful life.
Not only was Paul's description of "evil workers" a form of irony, it also was the fruit of their lives. False teachers, like the Pharisees, often live what looks like a moral life on the outside. Christ called them "whitewashed tombs." In Matthew 23:25-28, he said this:
"Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You clean the outside of the cup and dish, but inside they are full of greed and self-indulgence. Blind Pharisee! First clean the inside of the cup and dish, and then the outside also will be clean. "Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of dead men's bones and everything unclean. In the same way, on the outside you appear to people as righteous but on the inside you are full of hypocrisy and wickedness.
Often false teachers appear righteous on the outside, but on the inside, they are full of anger, pride, jealousy, selfishness, deception, and lust. And eventually, these sins will become clearly manifest. The Pharisees trumped up false witnesses against Christ and had him murdered to protect their position. Beware of teachers that preach righteousness but are full of dead men's bones. What's on the inside eventually will fully manifest. Paul said this:
The sins of some men are obvious, reaching the place of judgment ahead of them; the sins of others trail behind them. In the same way, good deeds are obvious, and even those that are not cannot be hidden. (1 Timothy 5:24-25)
For some, their sins are obvious, but for others, it trails behind. However, it will eventually clearly manifest. Paul says this in the context of not laying hands on somebody hastily (v. 22). Essentially, he says, "Don't pick an elder too fast." Their sins or their righteousness will eventually become abundantly clear. Beware of teachers that practice a sinful life. Paul calls them "evil workers."
5. Beware of teachers that focus on rituals and traditions over God's Word.
Paul calls them "mutilators of the flesh." Again, Paul was using irony to make a point. These false teachers taught the necessity of circumcision. Circumcision was a Jewish rite given by God to Abraham (cf. Gen 17:10). Jewish parents would circumcise their sons on the 8th day after birth. This was a sign of participation in God's covenant with Israel. If anybody was not circumcised, they were to be cut off from Israel—killed. However, this outward sign was always supposed to be a picture of an inward reality. It was to be a picture of having a changed heart before God—a heart that loved him and loved people. Jeremiah said this:
Circumcise yourselves to the LORD, circumcise your hearts, you men of Judah and people of Jerusalem, or my wrath will break out and burn like fire because of the evil you have done—burn with no one to quench it. (Jeremiah 4:4)
The Jews were to circumcise their hearts or God's wrath would break out against them. To be circumcised physically and not have a circumcised heart meant nothing before God (cf. Rom 2:25-29). It was just a ritual without the reality. This was always taught in the Old Testament. God desires obedience more than all the burnt offerings (cf. 1 Sam 15:22). To practice a ritual without the right heart is nothing before God.
It is the same for us. Our worship must be "in spirit and in truth" (John 4:23). We must have the objective reality of obedience to Scripture, but if we don't have the subjective reality—the right spirit or right heart—then it is unacceptable. False teachers and false teaching often focus on the ritual over the heart. They emphasize the form—the right clothes for worship, the right outward appearances, etc. The Pharisees made a great deal out of the washing of hands to be cleansed for worship even though it was not commanded by God (cf. Mk 7:1-2). Many of their rituals were not commands of God but simply traditions of men. Jesus said this about the Pharisees:
He replied, "Isaiah was right when he prophesied about you hypocrites; as it is written: "'These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. They worship me in vain; their teachings are but rules taught by men.' You have let go of the commands of God and are holding on to the traditions of men." (Mark 7:6-8)
With the Judaizers, since circumcision was no longer commanded of God, it was just a ritual that was neither right nor wrong. One could be circumcised or not, and it wouldn't make them any closer to God. In the church age, it is just a tradition. Be careful of teachers that emphasize traditions and ritual, especially those not commanded in the Scripture. Traditions are an easy substitute for a right heart, which is what God is really after.
Churches that emphasize traditions and rituals often become very legalistic and judgmental. If you don't have the outside form, if the female wears pants, if this guy has long hair, if this person doesn't do this, then he or she is often judged and excluded from the fellowship. Be careful of teachers that emphasize rituals over the commands of Scripture.
The majority of the New Testament epistles contain warnings about false teachers and false teachings that attacked the early church. We also need to hear this today, especially as we near the second coming of Christ. Jesus told his disciples to "watch out" so that no one would deceive them. He said in the last days there would be many false teachers and many claiming to be Christ (Matt 24:4-5, 11). There is a new cult started essentially every day. Therefore, we must always be aware of this reality. Satan is seeking to tear people from the flock like a wild dog. In order to protect ourselves, we must beware of false teachers.
Application Question: In what ways have you been exposed to false teachers and false teaching? What are some major errors being promoted currently in the church?
Believers Protect Themselves by Developing Assurance of Salvation
For it is we who are the circumcision, we who worship by the Spirit of God, who glory in Christ Jesus, and who put no confidence in the flesh (Philippians 3:3)
Paul teaches that one of the ways we protect ourselves is by knowing that we are truly saved. The Philippians would not become prey for the Judaizers or other false prophets if they knew that they were truly born again. And, it is the same for all Christians. Those who are not fully convinced that they are God's—that they are born again—are very susceptible to those who peddle another gospel, to spiritual warfare, and to other temptations. Paul said the Philippians should beware of them "for" or "because" (v. 4). He then gives reasons why they should beware of them. He describes them (including himself) as the circumcision— those who were truly saved. He essentially says—we are the true circumcision, true worshipers who glory in Christ, and put no confidence in the flesh.
The importance of developing assurance as a protection is taught throughout the New Testament. Peter said this: "Therefore, my brothers, be all the more eager to make your calling and election sure. For if you do these things, you will never fall" (2 Peter 1:10). Peter said to make our election sure, and if we do, we will never fall or stumble. One of the major themes of 2 Peter is warnings against false teachers (cf. 2:1-22), and Peter says assurance of salvation would help protect them from stumbling and falling into their teaching. Similarly, Paul taught the need to put on the helmet of salvation (Eph 6:17) in order to stand against spiritual warfare. What is the helmet of salvation? It is not being saved; it is assurance of salvation.
A person struggling with whether they are truly saved or not is easy prey for the enemy. Satan works overtime to comfort those who are not saved. He wants them to have a false peace so they will never truly repent of their sins and be born again. And at the same time, he works overtime to afflict those who are truly born again. He wants them to doubt their salvation, fear that they don't have it, or that they have lost it in order to keep them from being effective ministers of Christ.
Scripture everywhere teaches the necessity of knowing that we are truly born again—truly saved. In fact, Paul taught the need for assurance as the next step right after salvation. In Acts 2:20, he said, "I preached that they should repent and turn to God and prove their repentance by their deeds." Paul said repent and now prove your repentance by your works. There are necessary works in the life of a believer that prove they are saved. Believers are not saved by works, but works will be present if they are truly saved. If they are without works, then they are not truly born again (cf. James 2:17).
What works does Paul attribute to those who are truly born again?
Observation Question: What works characterize those who are truly born again in Philippians 3:3 and what can we learn from these works?
"For it is we who are the circumcision, we who worship by the Spirit of God, who glory in Christ Jesus, and who put no confidence in the flesh." (Philippians 3:3).
1. True believers will have a different relationship to sin.
Paul calls believers "the circumcision"—inferring that Christians had the true circumcision and that the Judaizers had a false one. As mentioned previously, circumcision was an outward work meant to reflect an inward reality. That inward reality was a change in their relationship to sin so that they could truly follow God. And, that is exactly what has happened to every true believer. Colossians 2:11 says this: "In him you were also circumcised, in the putting off of the sinful nature, not with a circumcision done by the hands of men but with the circumcision done by Christ."
Paul says that those who are "in" Christ have been circumcised by putting off the sinful nature. This means that sin is no longer their master and that they are no longer controlled by sin. Romans 6:6-7 says this:
For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body of sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin—because anyone who has died has been freed from sin.
A person who is born again should continually see a decrease of sin in their life and a greater power over it. John said this:
No one who is born of God will continue to sin, because God's seed remains in him; he cannot go on sinning, because he has been born of God. This is how we know who the children of God are and who the children of the devil are: Anyone who does not do what is right is not a child of God; nor is anyone who does not love his brother. (1 John 3:9-10)
John says, no one who is born of God will continue in sin. Why? It is because God's seed remains in him. This does not mean that a believer will not sin anymore, because he will. He just cannot live in it as a pattern or lifestyle anymore. The things he used to do, he can't do anymore. Sin leads to conviction and mourning because the believer is doing something contrary to his new nature. A person who lives in sin as a pattern proves that he was never circumcised by Christ (cf. Col 2:11). He is not a new creation (2 Cor 5:17). He is not born again.
Has God changed your relationship to sin? If your profession of Christ as Lord has not changed your relationship to sin, then your profession has probably not changed your eternal destiny. Paul was essentially saying, "You don't have to follow the false teachers because you are the true circumcision. At the cross, Christ severed the power of sin over your life—you are new."
What is another characteristic of somebody who is truly born again?
2. True believers will live a life of worship through the Spirit of God.
Not only do true believers have a change in their relationship with sin but also in their relationship with God. Paul says they "worship by the Spirit of God." Because God has given believers the Holy Spirit, they now live a lifestyle of worship. The Holy Spirit enables them to worship. Romans 8:15 says, "For you did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but you received the Spirit of sonship. And by him we cry, 'Abba, Father.'" The Holy Spirit works in believers to cry out to God. They find in themselves a desire to worship, to pray, to serve God, and to hear and study his Word. This is a work of the Holy Spirit.
In fact, the word "worship" might best be translated "'to render respectful spiritual service.' True worship goes beyond praising God, singing hymns, or participating in a worship service. The essence of worship is living a life of obedient service to God."3 Everything the believer does can be worship because he is empowered by the Holy Spirit. Paul said this in Colossians: "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men" (Colossians 3:23).
Some have called this worship "religious affections." Has God changed your relationship to sin and given you religious affections by the Holy Spirit? Do you desire to pray—to cry out "Abba, Father"? Do you desire to read the Word? Do you desire to share the gospel? Do you desire to serve?
This is a marvelous reality that has happened to every true believer. Where the false teachers worked in their own strength, true believers are empowered by the Holy Spirit with religious affections to serve the Lord.
3. True believers boast in Christ.
The word boast or "glorying" "describes boasting with exultant joy about what a person is most proud of."4 A true believer will boast continually in God and the things of God, whereas a person who is simply practicing religion will constantly boast in himself. Look at what Paul wrote:
But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace to me was not without effect. No, I worked harder than all of them—yet not I, but the grace of God that was with me. (1 Corinthians 15:10)
Therefore, as it is written: "Let him who boasts boast in the Lord." (1 Corinthians 1:31)
True believers will constantly be glorying in Christ and boasting in their Savior. I remember reading an article about a famous basketball player who just had a string of high scoring games. The reporter asked the basketball star, "What is your secret?" He responded, "Jesus Christ." She responded, "You had nothing to do with it." He again responded, "It's all God." I read the comments section on this article and many were upset at his giving glory to God instead of boasting in all his hard work. However, this should be normative for somebody who is saved. It is not that we deny that we worked hard. Like Paul we say, "We worked harder than everybody else." But, in the same breath, we recognize it was all a grace of God (1 Cor 15:10). He gives us life, breath, and everything else. He gives us our giftings; he works in us to will and do of his good pleasure. True believers recognize their utter bankruptcy and therefore always glory in Christ. They not only need God to be saved but also for everything else. However, those who hope in their religion—their good works—will commonly boast in their works instead of God. Consider Christ's story of the Pharisee and the tax collector:
To some who were confident of their own righteousness and looked down on everybody else, Jesus told this parable: "Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee stood up and prayed about himself: 'God, I thank you that I am not like other men—robbers, evildoers, adulterers—or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week and give a tenth of all I get.' "But the tax collector stood at a distance. He would not even look up to heaven, but beat his breast and said, 'God, have mercy on me, a sinner.' "I tell you that this man, rather than the other, went home justified before God. For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted." (Luke 18:9-14)
It's interesting, the Pharisee prayed "about himself" (v. 11). He boasted in his fasting and his giving and condemned others less outwardly righteous than him. However, the tax collector could only cry out for mercy from God. His hope was totally in God and not in his works.
Do you constantly give glory to Christ? This is a characteristic of a true believer.
4. True believers put no confidence in the flesh.
When Paul talks about the flesh, he is referring to "man's fallen, unredeemed humanness; it pictures human ability apart from God."5 To put no confidence in the flesh means to understand the reality that we can do nothing acceptable to God apart from his grace. Even our righteousness is as filthy rags before God (Isaiah 64:6). A true believer realizes that he can do nothing good in order to achieve salvation, but he also is growing in his understanding that there is nothing good in him apart from God. Listen to what Paul said: "I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature. For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out" (Romans 7:18). There was nothing good within him. In fact, he cried out at the end of Romans 7:24, "What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body of death?" Paul realized there was nothing good within him, nothing that would please God apart from grace. This doctrine is often called "Total Depravity." Jesus said this: "The Spirit gives life; the flesh counts for nothing. The words I have spoken to you are spirit and they are life" (John 6:63).
Because of this reality, a believer, though prone to pride and boasting, will be continually growing in humility. Like the disciples, they will be growing in practicing secrecy even with their good works (Matt 6:1-8). Why? It's because they realize that it is the Spirit that gives life and that the flesh counts for nothing. They work hard at starving the flesh because it deserves no glory—only God does. "Let him who boasts, boast in the Lord" (1 Cor 1:31). The Judaizers were relying on their works—their righteousness—to be acceptable to God. However a true believer puts no confidence in his flesh and relies fully on God's work.
Are you trusting in your baptism? Are you trusting in taking the Lord's Supper? Are you trusting in church attendance? None of those count as far as salvation is concerned. Our boast is only in Christ for the flesh counts for nothing.
How do we know if we are truly saved? We are the circumcision—God has changed our relationship to sin. We can't live in sin anymore. We are the ones who worship by the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit has given us religious affections—a desire to pray, a desire to serve, a desire to study his Word, etc. Our boast is in Christ alone, the flesh is nothing. We glorify Christ in everything because we know the weakness of our flesh. The Spirit gives life, and the flesh counts for nothing.
Knowing that we are saved is a great protection for us. It protects us from the attacks of the devil. It will protect us from deep discouragements. It will protect us from being drawn into cults or false teachings that profess to know the way to true salvation. We must make our election sure as we grow in the faith, and if we do, it will keep us from stumbling and falling (2 Peter 1:5-11).
Application Question: How do believers grow in assurance of salvation (cf. 2 Peter 1:5-11, Matt 5:3-11, Acts 26:20, James 2:14-26)? Do you ever struggle with assurance of salvation? Why or why not?
How do we protect ourselves from spiritual threats and attacks? There are attacks from within through our flesh, attacks from the world, attacks from the devil, and the constant temptations that come with trials. How can we protect ourselves from stumbling and falling away from Christ?
- Believers Protect Themselves by Remaining in Fellowship
- Believers Protect Themselves by Guarding Their Joy
- Believers Protect Themselves by Living in the Word of God
- Believers Protect Themselves by Watching Out for False Teachers
- Believers Protect Themselves by Developing Assurance of Salvation
1 MacArthur, J. F., Jr. (2001). Philippians (p. 215). Chicago: Moody Press.
2 MacArthur, J. F., Jr. (2001). Philippians (p. 217). Chicago: Moody Press.
3 MacArthur, J. F., Jr. (2001). Philippians (p. 221). Chicago: Moody Press.
4 MacArthur, J. F., Jr. (2001). Philippians (p. 222). Chicago: Moody Press.
5 MacArthur, J. F., Jr. (2001). Philippians (p. 223). Chicago: Moody Press.
Related Topics: Christian Life


text:
Competition Aluminum Speedloaders
6-Shot for S&W N Frame
(ArmsVault.com) – Pachmayr's new revolver Speedloaders are now available for the S&W N Frame. Unlike competitive models which are made of plastic, Pachmayr's Speedloaders are precision CNC machined from solid aluminum
The Speedloader bodies are cut in a polygon shape which produces the smallest possible outside dimensions and allows them to easily fit compact revolvers.
Speedloaders fit the following models:
- S&W "J" frame (Item # 02650)
- S&W 36, 37, 38, 40, 42, 49, 60, 340, 360, Ruger LCR, Ruger SP101, Charter Arms, Taurus 85, 605, 651, 851, Rossi 68
- S&W "K" frame (Item # 02652)
- S&W 10, 12, 13, 14, 15, 19, 64, 65, 66, 67, Taurus 606, 65, 66, 80, 82, Rossi 971, 951, 851, 351, Dan Wesson, Charter Arms, Colt Cobra
- S&W "L" frame (Item # 02654)
- S&W 586, 686, 581, 681, Ruger GP100, Colt Python
- S&W "N" frame (Item # 02655)
- Dan Wesson, Ruger Redhawk, Super Redhawk, Colt Anaconda, Taurus .44, 444 Raging Bull
Speedloader Features:
- CNC machined from solid aluminum
- Polygon shape for the smallest outside dimensions
- Equipped with a rattle eliminating o-ring which contacts the cartridge bases and firmly holds the rounds in place. Cartridges are released with a simple twist of the large knurled knob.
- Simple twist knob cartridge release
For more information on Pachmayr Revolver Speedloaders visit Lyman Products.
About Lyman Products
Lyman Products has continued to be a leader in developing innovative products for reloaders and shooters for 140 years. Lyman's reloading kits, presses and dies have provided reloaders with all the high- quality equipment they need to start reloading. Pachmayr, TacStar, Trius Traps, A-Zoom Precision Snap Caps, Butch's Gun Care and Targdots are all under the Lyman brand.
For more information please visit us at lymanproducts.com. Connect with Lyman Products on Facebook at Facebook.com/lymanproducts and follow us on Instagram @LymanProducts.


text:
Date: 1985
Type: Working Paper
Hidden and repressed inflation in Soviet-type economies : definitions, measurements and stabilisation
Working Paper, Florence : European University Institute, 1985EUI Working Papers, 200, [ECO]
NUTI, Domenico Mario, Hidden and repressed inflation in Soviet-type economies : definitions, measurements and stabilisation, Florence : European University Institute, 1985EUI Working Papers, 200, [ECO] - https://hdl.handle.net/1814/23103
Retrieved from Cadmus, EUI Research Repository
In Soviet-type economies inflationary pressures, often reduced but not eliminated by central planning, take the form not only of open officially recorded inflation but also of hidden inflation (i.e. a differential between official price indices and the actual cost of living to consumers) and of repressed inflation (i.e. rising excess demand for goods and services at the actual prices in the state and non-state sectors). This paper reviews inflationary trends, the persistence of inflationary pressure under central planning and definitional problems for alternative types of inflation. Estimates of hidden inflation in recent literature are reviewed and generally found to understate the price differential in the controlled and uncontrolled markets. The wide divergence between recent estimates of repressed inflation, ranging between near-equilibrium and catastrophic imbalance, is then discussed. By and large excess money holdings in the economy as a whole (i.e. with reference to the two-tier market for consumption goods) are found to be small, but this is seen as consistent with large-scale imbalance in the state sector. A model is presented illustrating the complexity and time profile of repressed inflation definitions and measurements, due to the difference between the price level which would preserve equilibrium if it had been prevailing for a sufficiently long period, and the price levels (depending on the speed of adjustment) and their time paths which can restore market clearing at single prices starting from a two-tier market in a state of imbalance. Alternative stabilisation paths and their combination are also investigated, using as policy instruments the price level, a liquid wealth tax (or currency conversion) and supply improvements. The costs of hidden and repressed inflation are discussed and found to be greater than the cost of open inflation. In sum, the task of stabilisation in Soviet-type economies is seen as large-scale, time-consuming and complex, and its implementation imperative.
Additional information:
First made available online in May 2015.
Cadmus permanent link: https://hdl.handle.net/1814/23103
Series/Number: EUI Working Papers; 200; [ECO]
Publisher: European University Institute
Published version: http://hdl.handle.net/1814/16790
Files associated with this item
- Name:
- EUI_ECO_1985_200.pdf
- Size:
- 4.230Mb
- Format:
- Description:
- Full-text in Open Access
- Name:
- 1985_EUIWP_200.pdf
- Size:
- 23.55Mb
- Format:
- Description:
- Full-text in Open Access


text:
Hi! Simply click below and type your query.
Our experts will reply you very soon.
Malleswaram, Bangalore, Karnataka
Thank you
Your Enquiry has been sent successfully.
Packages for
Budget (Optional)
No. of Nights (Optional)
Tour Theme (Optional)
Home › Packages › Packages in Srirangapatna
Duration :
1 Day
Destinations Covered : Srirangapatna, Mysore, Chamundi hills, B..
Packages by Destination
Packages by Theme
Packages by Activity


text:
New York Fries looks to help take the chill off this winter with the introduction of new Chili Poutine and Chili Cheese Fries.
New Chili Poutine features the chain's signature hand cut fries smothered in beef chili, real Canadian cheese curds and fresh green onions.
New Chili Cheese Fries consist of beef chili, real cheese sauce and fresh sour cream blanketing the chain's hand-cut fries.
New Chili Poutine and Chili Cheese Fries are available at participating locations across Canada for a limited time.
Nutritional Information – Chili Poutine (Regular Size 398g)
- Calories: 940
- Fat: 47g
- Sodium: 670mg
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 24g
Nutritional Information – Chili Cheese Fries (Regular Size 430g)
- Calories: 830
- Fat: 37g
- Sodium: 690mg
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 16g
Image via New York Fries


text:
An interview with Anna Goldsworthy, author of the new release memoir Piano Lessons
Piano Lessons is a memoir about growing up, following your passion, teaching and learning, music, ambition, family and much, much more. Is there one central theme or idea that captures the essence of your story?
I thought I was writing a memoir of vocation, in which I explore my relationship with music through my relationship with my teacher, Eleonora Sivan. But I've had a range of responses from its early readers, each of whom feels it is about something different: anxiety and obsessiveness; the lacerating nature of artistic pursuit; growing up with a writer for a father…
Do readers need to have an understanding of classical music to enjoy Piano Lessons?
At the start of the book, I have no understanding of classical music, so that provides an entry point for a reader with no musical background. I also hope it might be of interest to members of the music-loving public who wonder what goes through a musician's mind on stage.
What made you want to write Piano Lessons?
I had always planned to write a book about Eleonora, but I always imagined this might be a project for my twilight years. Then a couple of years ago I received an email from Chris Feik, the publisher at Black Inc, asking if I might like to write a memoir about the 'piano-playing life'. At first I thought a memoir - how presumptuous! – I'd been studying the piano for twenty-five years but still felt I was only beginning…. but gradually I came around to the idea. It occurred to me that writing such a book might clarify my own thoughts about music, and might also be a way of honouring Eleonora. But the book went beyond this to incorporate many of the themes you mention above.
Did you find it difficult to write about yourself and your family?
I enjoyed writing about childhood but the writing became more problematic for me as I grew up. I didn't think I could still be embarrassed by my adolescence – surely a statute of limitations applies in such cases – but reliving those years was still painful: writing about my teenage anxieties seemed to resurrect them. And while I loved writing about my family, I wondered afterwards if I had said too much.
What has been the reaction from your family after reading the book?
My sister was the first to read it. She's a trainee psychiatrist and had been counselling me through my anxieties about the manuscript before I showed it to her. And while she was very reassuring I could tell she was a little concerned (what has she written about us this time? Can it really be that bad?). So when she called me up to say she loved it, I felt tremendously relieved. My mother was equally gracious, as was my father, who provided me with good editorial feedback (he also suggested that I spice up his dialogue with the occasional witty Latin one-liner, but that didn't seem fair). And although my grandfather fretted that he seemed 'even more pedantic than I admit to', he was generous enough to proof-read the manuscript meticulously, discovering any number of rogue commas and grammatical errors.
How did you choose which parts of your life to include and exclude from the book?
Mostly the material chose itself. There were certain formative events that needed to be there: key triumphs and disappointments, my first audition for Eleonora. I did find I was more drawn to stories of failure than of success, so that by the time I finished the first draft I had completed a catalogue of disasters: the memoir of a failed musician. I'm not sure why this fixation on disaster – self-deprecation gone rampant? An unwillingness to appear 'up myself'? But there's also a relief in admitting to failure. The construction of a c.v. and of a career is all about focusing on successes, while failures contain more comedy, certainly – but also better lessons.
To read more about Piano Lessons, head over here. The second and third parts of this interview will be posted on this blog throughout October.
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
John Hirst on his new book The Shortest History of Europe
I paid actors to stage a debate from the Assembly in classical Athens as recorded by Thucydides. I showed the early scenes from films of Romeo and Juliet and King Lear, the first to show how aristocrats lived and feuded in Italian towns, the second to show how German kings divided up their kingdoms among their children as Charlemagne did with his. I did lots of readings—the rape of Lucretia from Livy's History of Rome, the Ten Commandments, Jesus' Sermon on the Mount. I demonstrated how clever the Greeks were by doing a geometrical proof on the blackboard.
At the end of the lecture on political history I paired off the students in the aisles and had them demonstrate the mode of salutation to rulers through the ages: in Rome from the republican salute (similar to the fascist salute) to prone on the floor before the later emperors; kneeling before a feudal monarch while he grasped your hands and then rising to kiss as equals; kissing the hand of absolute monarchs while kneeling; and finally the reappearance of the republican salute in revolutionary France. Learning by doing!
How much of this could survive in a printed book? A good deal. It doesn't look like a normal history book. There are many readings, a geometrical proof, a Newtonian law, a good deal of what I put on the blackboard —summaries, time lines and short cuts. The whole history of Europe is reduced to a one-page diagram.
My talk has been tidied up but I wanted to keep the feel of a spoken lecture. In lectures scholars have the licence to be bolder than on the printed page. Except I am not a scholar of Europe. My expertise is in Australian history. Only a non-specialist could take the leaps I do.
Subscribe to: Posts (Atom)


text:
As the year moves on, there is continued pressure on the sector to ensure that maths and English is at the heart of the curriculum, but uncertainty as to which qualifications will be available in the future. The debate on the universal use of GCSE as the qualification of choice for the sector for both pre and post-16 learners continues as providers start to take stock of what that will mean for them. Coupled with the move towards employer funding of apprenticeships, cuts in funding for post 16 provision, the removal of funding for many of the smaller qualifications we use to encourage access to learning; managing the future needs of learners looks challenging!
I was at the recent Maths and English Skills conference with many other resource providers and delegates. A very lively debate took place on how the sector will be able to cope with the demands being made, going forward. Barry Brooks from Tribal gave a comprehensive overview of the issues facing the sector; stressing the government commitment to the importance of maths end English but warning that the DfE are convinced that the only qualification worth striving for is the GCSE.
What will this mean?
The stats show that adults do not do well when taking GCSE maths and English. Whilst the pass rate of GCSE at 16 is in the region of 60%, for adults it's nearer 40%. This looks quite reasonable to me. We are asking those who have failed their GCSE, despite the best the schools can do to ensure a pass, to re-take. And if 40% of them pass, that looks like a significant success to me; a real improvement.
And so perhaps DfE need a reality check. Michael Doel, CEO of AOC is on record as saying" Requiring colleges to continue to teach GCSE to young people who have failed consistently to achieve academic maths is just continuing to bang their heads against the same wall for another two years."
There is further support from an unlikely quarter. Sir Michael Wilshaw (Ofsted Chief Inspector) recently spoke to the Education Select Committee saying that " Some young people must know that they have got to achieve a certain requirement in terms of the ability to read and write for their job, and that is a functional skill, I think that expecting all of these youngsters to achieve a 'C 'grade in GCSE English at 18 is probably a challenge too far".
Many colleges that had dropped their GCSE re-take classes have re-instated them this year and encouraged all learners with a 'D' grade in either subject to re-take. These learners will be sitting GCSEs in May and June and it will be interesting to see if the pass rate holds at 40%. I suspect not.
Whatever policy is adopted the need for more tutors and trainers who are able to support learners to improve their maths and English is clearly an overriding need for the sector. It is argued that the sector needs at least 1300 additional maths and 1260 English tutors to fully support learners.
The government is responding to this need and increasing funded schemes to support the sector. The Mathematics Enhancement Programme is up and running offering six days of face-to-face CPD for tutors who want to be up-skilled to deliver maths. And there is a further £20m scheme for maths graduates who choose to teach in the sector to receive a bonus of £7,500 payable in their first year. Although welcomed, there is no similar fund for those teaching English; and clearly these schemes are insufficient to meet the total needs of the sector.
Therefore , given the importance of teachers and trainers being able to support maths and English, I lament that we don't insist that all those who are delivering should have a level 5 specialist qualification as we did with the SFL policy. Even though the policy wasn't fully enforced and more people were 'working towards' than they actually achieved the qualifications, I still see lots of CVs from people with level 5 specialist qualifications and feel far more confident that they will be able to support learners effectively.
Maureen Emmett


text: Mary Alice Belov planned to put gas in her car, then buy groceries. What she didn't plan on was the $10 gas purchase freezing $50 of her bank account and forcing Belov, a small-business owner from Goldendale, Wash., to put items from her cart back on the shelf. Blame the all too common "debit hold."


text:
1. Book Ornaments
– Old book pages
– Mod podge
– Flat iridescent glitter
Paint it on old ornaments to give them a new, romantic look!
2. Easy as Twine
– Yarn or twine
Place about 2 feet (or more) into ornament for an easy, romantic look!
3. Jingle Bell Wreath
– Small bells
– Fishing Wire
– Ribbon
Gather bells onto fishing wire, twist closed & connect it to a ribbon!


text:
Choosing a Blue-Headed Macaw
Until the middle 1990s, blue-headed macaws were unknown in aviculture. Blue-headed macaws are small green "mini" macaws found in tropical foothill habitats in western Peru, eastern Brazil and northwestern Bolivia. They inhabit partially open forest types including disturbed forests. Common locally, blue-headed macaws are usually found in pairs or small flocks.
Appearance and Personality
Blue-headed macaws (Ara couloni) are a blue-gray color. The beak is pale. The facial skin in grey and the eyes are bright yellow with red rings around the iris. The tail is long and tapered and is blue and green. Mini macaws are lively boisterous birds and require generous living space. Blue-headed macaws can live up to 30 to 40 years.
Macaws are playful and love to chew. They should always be provided with toys, especially wooden blocks that can be chewed, and branches from non-toxic trees.
All macaws need plenty of energy for good health. Many of their natural foods, especially palm nuts are rich in oils, and calories. Macaws should be fed a formulated (pelleted or extruded) diet as a basis for good nutrition. The diet should be supplemented with fresh fruits and vegetables daily to add variety and psychological enrichment. Feed approximately 1/4 cup of pellets. Also offer 1/4 cup of fresh fruits and vegetables. Give one to two small such as almonds nuts as treats. Small amounts of seed may also be given as treats especially as rewards for good behavior. Vitamin supplements are not needed for birds that are eating a formulated diet.
Routine bathing or showering is vital to maintaining good plumage and skin condition. Birds can be misted and allowed to dry in a warm room or in the sun, or dried with a blow drier. An ideal way to bathe macaws is to put them in a cage outside, sprinkle them with the hose, and allow them to dry in the sun. Macaws are strong fliers. Most of the primary flight feathers (10 feathers closest to the tip of the wing) should be clipped to prevent flight. Clip only enough so the bird will glide to the floor.
Blue-headed macaws are adaptable and should do well in housing that is appropriate for other macaws of similar size. Macaws should have adequate space to move freely between two perches. Example of appropriate suspended cage size for blue-headed macaws is 3-foot by 3-foot by 6-foot or 4-foot by 4-foot by 8-foot. Cages should be suspended 3 to 4 feet above the ground. Cages for blue-headed macaws must be constructed of strong wire, although they are not as able to chew cages as the large macaws. Use 14 gauge welded wire, 1-inch by 1-inch for most pairs. Ideally pet macaws can also have a large cage outdoors for bathing and exercise.
Blue-headed macaws have breed fairly well in captivity in Europe and South America. Breeding season is usually in spring and early summer, although some pairs will breed almost year round. Clutch size is usually 2 to 4 eggs. Incubation period is approximately 23 to 26 days.
Blue-headed macaws like vertical wooden nest boxes (about 12-inch by 12-inch by 24-inch). Macaws should be provided with plentiful chewing material. Pine shavings make excellent nest box bedding.
When breeding macaws, noise and proximity to neighbors must be considered. Mate aggression is uncommon in macaws. Pair bonds are strong but not necessarily life long.


text:
Doris Kearns Goodwin is a historian whose "Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln" was the basis of the 2012 feature film "Lincoln." Goodwin has written several books about U.S. presidents "No Ordinary Time: Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt" won a Pulitzer Prize for history. She gave the Undergraduate Commencement address in May, and we interviewed her before her arrival on campus. She was interviewed by email by Peter M. Warren.
Did working on the film "Lincoln" conflict with your standards as a historian?
It didn't. The thing that mattered most to me was whether the film captured the Lincoln I thought I knew: his strengths, his humor, his political genius and his warmth. When I watched Daniel Day Lewis as Lincoln, I felt I was seeing the man walking and talking that I had imagined for so long. They were absolutely true to history.
You're working on a book about Theodore Roosevelt. What interests you about him?
One thing that interests me is the broken friendship with William Howard Taft, who succeeded Roosevelt as president. They had been good friends, but Roosevelt ran against him in 1912, not only breaking the friendship but also destroying the chances for the Republicans to win. A second thing is Roosevelt had an extraordinary relationship with the press, which was dominated by the muckrakers. Ida Tarbell, Lincoln Steffens, Ray Stannard Baker, William Allen White — all of them are at the center of my book, which will be called "The Bully Pulpit: Theodore Roosevelt, William Howard Taft and the Golden Age of Journalism."
Being re-elected usually gives a president a boost, but President Obama doesn't seem to have experienced that. Is it because he's ineffective or are conditions limiting him?
I think in large part it is because of the times and the political system. Take the president's gun control measure, for example. When you think of the number of vigils he attended, the mobilization of the families connected to the Newtown shootings and the inclusion of the issue in his inaugural address, Obama did as much as he could using the bully pulpit. The question is whether the bully pulpit is as powerful as it once was. You also could say he won the public battle but that fundraising needs and the reliance on special interests made the Senate, where the bill died, impervious to public sentiment.
As a historian, what is your assessment of the presidency of George W. Bush?
Historians would argue it takes 20 or 30 years to get perspective. My guess is that some of his accomplishments will be to his benefit, but historians will have to answer the questions: Was the war in Iraq an answer to 9/11? Were all the lives, treasure and energy that went into that the best response we could've had?
What does it take to be president?
I have enormous respect for what it takes to succeed in our political system: to suffer adversity and loss early on, the need to ask people for things, whether votes or favors, for example. You have to have some strength or some need for approval or power. The question now is whether there is a sense of purpose that is commensurate with what you have to go through to win.
[youtube id="B0zA7V3zVnY"]


text:
ID: 12161772 Open
Black Widow 2 Nm Near Mint Marvel Comics
Seller: Cloud9ComicsAndMoreLLC (9016)
Here at Cloud 9 Comics and More, the original since 2004, we strive for 5 stars positive feedback for every transaction. If we have not met this standard in any way contact us and we will make things right. That is a promise! Some Comics may have a sticke ... Read More
Item Specifics
- Series Name
- Black Widow (2004)
- Issue Number
- 2
- Publisher
- Marvel
- Main Character
- Black Widow
- Genre
- Superhero
Item DescriptionHere at Cloud 9 Comics and More, the original since 2004, we strive for 5 stars positive feedback for every transaction. If we have not met this standard in any way contact us and we will make things right. That is a promise! Some Comics may have a sticker on the cover in the photo, these stickers are on the bag and board not the comic unless otherwise stated in the title of the listing. If you have questions about the grade see the title. Please note that we do not send extra photos of the comics we list. We grade accurately and have an amazing return policy. We answer all questions promptly. We combine shipping generously. Payment must be made within 3 days of purchase. If payment isn't made within that time frame the transaction will be cancelled and a non-payment will be listed on the buyers account. If you can't make payment in that timeframe we humbly request you postpone bidding or making offers until you are prepared to make payment. Insurance is free on all items or groups of items that total over $200.00. Thank you for your business and keep in mind that if you buy more product I am more willing to negotiate on pricing. If you have questions on high end product that are difficult to answer over the messaging services that Hip provides then you may request our phone number to have that conversation. Just send us a message and we will gladly give you our phone number when appropriate. Once done shopping send us an invoice request (this is an icon found on the desktop version of eHip) and we will promptly send combined shipping prices for all items on the invoice. Our combined shipping offer is only available for domestic shipments. If you need combined shipping and you are an international customer please contact us through Hip messaging first. All comics are bagged and boarded! (This doesn't include graphic novels and magazines) Thanks for shopping with the original Cloud 9 Comics and More (since 2004!) Black Widow 2 Nm Near Mint Marvel Comics.
Seller Information
- Seller
- Cloud9ComicsAndMoreLLC (9016)
- Registered Since
- 09/12/2018
- Feedback
- 99.3%
- Store
- Cloud 9 Comics And More LLC
Offers History
There are no offers posted on this listing.
Sales History
The listing has not been sold.
- Item Location
- Missouri, United States
- Ships To
- United States
Postage Calculator
- Select Country
- Quantity
- Returns Accepted
- No
You need to be logged in to ask the seller a question.
Click here to login
Click here to login
Listing viewed 1 times Listing watched by 0 users


text:
Get Pasta Delivered or To-Go in Adams, MA
Got an appetite for comfort food in Adams, MA? Treat yourself with oven-baked pasta delivery to your place, workplace, or even a local Domino's Hotspot® in Adams. Prefer to get pasta takeout on the way home? Order pasta carryout online and get it to-go at your nearest Domino's — it'll be waiting for you when you get here. Whether you want vegetarian pasta as a side dish, or you want a hearty helping of penne for your main dish, Domino's is your go-to restaurant for delicious pasta delivery in Adams, Massachusetts.
Adams, MA Pasta Delivery & Takeout Menu
Clamoring for the classics? Quiet your hunger with tender penne and grilled chicken covered in a creamy Alfredo sauce. Or, give your Chicken Alfredo a savory twist by ordering the Chicken Carbonara instead. It has the same basic ingredients as the classic Alfredo, but it's topped with fresh onions, sauteed mushrooms, and crunchy bacon that's a toast to your taste buds.
Need a veggie-friendly pasta option? Order Pasta Primavera that'll make your vegetarian dreams come true. It's made with a hearty serving of mushrooms, ripe tomato chunks, and fresh spinach, and tender pasta tossed in a creamy Alfredo sauce. Prefer zesty over creamy? Turn up the heat by ordering Italian Sausage Marinara pasta. It has seasoned sausage, zesty marinara, and al dente pasta under a layer of hot melted provolone.
If you can't find a menu option to conquer your cravings, build your own pasta to feed your hunger and your creative side. You'd be hard-pressed to find another Adams pasta delivery restaurant that lets you customize your own pasta dish. First, choose a sauce — bold marinara or creamy Alfredo. Then, pick three toppings to garnish your pasta exactly how you like it.
Need some mouthwatering build your own pasta bowl ideas? Create a Mediterranean-inspired pasta with feta, peppers, and olives, or take a bite on the lighter side with mushrooms, grilled chicken, and pineapple! Keep it classy or get crazy with Domino's Adams, MA pasta delivery near you.
There are 20+ different Domino's pasta toppings for you to choose from, ranging from ham, pepperoni, and bacon to black olives, spinach, and different types of cheese like crumbly feta and shredded provolone. You can get as cheesy as you want to with Domino's pasta delivery near you in Adams, MA.
Get Pasta Delivery in Adams, MA
How easy is getting pasta delivered to your door in Adams, MA? Much easier than reading the back of an old spaghetti box. Save your time and your sanity by having Domino's do the cooking and the cleaning while you treat yourself to the pasta you've been dreaming of.
Choose pasta takeout from a Adams Domino's near you or order pasta delivery in Adams, MA — we'll deliver your comfort food to the comfort of your house, apartment, office, or local Domino's Hotspot®. Order pasta online in Adams for a stress-free dining experience that's sure to satisfy!


text:
Last week, Infinite Fall released a new teaser for Night in the Woods, the quirky (but also very good-looking) adventure/exploration game, along with confirmation of a January 10 release date. More recently, however, the studio announced that some "last-minute things have com up," and it's not going to make that date.
Fortunately, the delay should be a relatively short one. A new date hasn't been announced, but it should only take a few weeks longer than expected to get things wrapped up. "It's all normal stuff, nothing is on fire, and it's all to do with the fact that we're a tiny team making a big game and doing a multi-platform launch is a whole *waves hands around* thing," the studio wrote in a Kickstarter update. "Right now we're waiting on some info from outside parties as to the exact date we can launch, but it'll be somewhere in the first part of February."
The new release date will probably be announced around New Year's Day, but the studio didn't want to leave people hanging until then, especially since preordering is now live. "We try to be transparent and up front, and it'd be kinda shifty to just keep this to ourselves seeing how close we are to the end," the update says. "It reeeeeally sucks having to make this kind of announcement, especially right after releasing a trailer and all. But again, it's just a few weeks and you'll be busy playing."
If you haven't already snagged it, you can pass some of the delay with Lost Constellation, a 2014 "supplemental game" that's set in the same world as Night in the Woods. "It's not a demo or a preview of Night In The Woods. In some ways Lost Constellation is a lot like NITW, but in a lot of ways it's not," the developers explained. "It's a tangent, a side-story, a way for us to explore a bit in a more off-the-cuff manner." Grab it at finji.itch.io.
Some online stores give us a small cut if you buy something through one of our links. Read our for more info.


text:
UFA-Dabei 712/1970 17.03.1970
01 Erfurt and Stoph portrait cityscapes of Erfurt; Hotel Erfurter Hof, total, swing. Erfurt-portrait of the "eye-witnesses" with original sound of the DEFA report. 2 old engravings of the city; City images; Churches; Church Interior; Monument; Plate at a House with inscription: "Goethe and Schiller went to this House on and off. Wilhelm von Humboldt here married Caroline of roof öden (1791) ", House portal with cherubs head; diverse cityscapes; Plate of a House: "The Erfurt program of the Social Democratic Party of Germany adopted in this House in 1891". Street scene. Demolition of a House. Panning and settings of new buildings, some still under construction: "Optima" movement "Radio factory in Erfurt", total, totally. Swivels about a modern playground, which will be planted with flowers. Seen pan over Erfurt from above. Stoph portrait: still photographs by Stoph in uniform and in civilian clothes. Stophs's eyes close. Stoph between Ulbricht and Grotewohl, great; at signature; sitting on balustrade, great. As new Prime Minister. At balustrade with including Brezhnev, Ulbricht, Stoph. Head Auditorium, Stoph continues during the applause. Stoph and Erich Honecker walked into the room in the company; Stoph in addition to Ulbricht, which receives flowers from a young pioneer. Stoph descends stairs; he receives a bouquet of roses from pioneer. Gloop laughing close and at meeting table with others.
02. Geneva: Motor Show: NSU and continental classic car radiator hoods from Rolls Royce, Mercedes, de Dion Bouton and Auto-Union, each close. Was by continental tyres, totally. Various settings of a new belt tire from continental with a steel insert, close. Car on turntable, great. American subcompact gremlin, swivel and total. Swiss buggy, frontal, big. Girl at the wheel of a car, great. Level of Audi NSU: various settings of the TT 1000 dashboard, close. Audi 100 Coupé on turntable. Various settings of American car. 2 slices-Wankel engine with plastic bodywork by Daimler-Benz. Mercedes C 111 on hub with an open hood.
03. Charles Aznavour tour beginning in Hamburg Aznavour in coat with Coachmen collar welcomes men; Children dress stops at party in Hamburg, sitting at the table; strikes with forefinger several keys on piano, big with sunglasses. Aznavour, close, in the middle of the guests, multiple full-screen shots of his face. Aerial photographs of Paris, among other flight around the Eiffel Tower, flight over the Seine. Church Weathercock.
04. Marburg: New martial arts, fight terrorism called dark finger claws of a woman, close, attack a man in the face and force him to the Rückwärtsfall. Various settings of ladies and gentlemen at the mass training in a judo-like martial arts Hall. Knife and by lab Wehrungen. Coach Walker in training, he throws man on the mat and puts him a knee in the pit of the neck, big.
05. Hamburg: German men's casual fashion in Studio-production. Swivel about lying crosswise in the image girl in Maxi, foot to foot with modern clad young man, is the head to head with third. Under the title "modetips for Adam" the young man with naked upper body. Ranking ride surrounded at column, by young people. Various road trips from white car on the Dressmen and mannequins sit, lie and stand. Dressmen and girl from below. Girl's head, close, the eye is associated with black binding; She scans the Dressmen how playing the Blindekuh. Man takes girl on the arms in ZL and rotates them.
Origin / Type of content
Persons in the Film
Aznavour, Charles ; Honecker, Erich ; Stoph, Willi
Geneva ; Paris ; Hamburg ; Erfurt ; Marburg
Sachindex Wochenschauen ; Judo ; Musical events ; Portraits ; Townscapes: Germany ; automotive engineering, automotive ; Fashion ; aerial photographs ; Exhibitions ; transport
Newsreel (G)
Weekly Newsreel
Translated by Microsoft Translator
- Title:
UFA-Dabei 712/1970
UFA-Wochenschau (Other title)
- Country of Origin:
- Federal Republic of Germany
Year of Production and/or Release
- Date of Release:
- 17.03.1970
- Year of Production:
- 1970
- Origin:
- Erfurt and Stoph portrait Auto Salon in Geneva (NSU + continental) camera: Jackson Charles Aznavour tour and camera: Wiers flight recordings Paris origin: Pathé journal fight terrorism, Marburg camera: Luppa German menswear in Hamburg UFA in Studio production camera: L. at the beginning and end of total length
Technical Data
Have you seen these gems?
Welt im Film 338/1951
Welt im Bild 60/1953
Neue Deutsche Wochenschau 687/1963
UFA-Wochenschau 499/1966
An der Kamera...
UFA-Dabei 903/1973
Welt im Film 228/1949
Welt im Film 34/1946
Neue Deutsche Wochenschau 362/1957
Deutschlandspiegel 313/1980


text:
Maternity Bikinis
Cute Bump-Friendly Maternity Bikinis
Whether you're relaxing by the pool or packing for your babymoon, our collection of matching maternity bikinis will help you show off your bump in style all summer long! PinkBlush style experts make sure we keep the trendiest designs and styles in stock every season. Our bump-friendly bikinis come in a wide range of styles, colors, and prints, from classic triangle and scoop neck solids, to trendy tie dye and animal print one-shoulder and halters. And with feminine details like crochet, florals and scallops, we know you'll find your perfect maternity bikini at PinkBlush!
Your cart is empty!
What are you waiting for? Start shopping our new arrivals now!
Hooray! You got FREE 3 DAY SHIPPING!
(Contiguous US orders only)
- {property.name}:{property.value}Backordered - Est. Ship Date: {property.value} Est. Ship Date: {property.value}
- Carbon Offset & Order Protection$1.85Protect your package, Cancel your carbonSubtotal:


text:
Guy Leonard and Co cycle for Dame Vera Lynn Trust
Majorca as an island is known for many different things: a beautiful holiday destination, a crazy place to go for a party, an escape for retirement or a training ground for keen cyclists. For Neil Moore, MD of Guy Leonard and Co, it's a home away from home, somewhere he's been visiting with his family since his childhood, and a place his children have grown up to love.
Until a few years ago, cycling in Majorca, or indeed cycling at all, had rarely been in Neil's intentions when planning holidays to Majorca. But after starting up regular cycling trips with personal trainer Alex Ryan of South Downs Health and Fitness, Neil has taken on challenge after challenge, cycling the South Downs Way in three days and the Isle of Wight in two. Majorca was the next step up and an ideal excuse to head out to enjoy the island in springtime and see some undiscovered places via cycle routes. The challenge was without doubt a step up though, with the Traumantana Mountains to the North East of the island presenting nothing short of the most epic challenge Neil has ever faced.
Keen to document this challenge to share with everyone back home, Neil created a log of the cycle which provides an interesting and at times amusing insight into what they were facing:
'OK, whose idea was this I am wondering as I sit contemplating the next four days cycling, what kind of fine mess I have got myself into this time. Last year I completed the South Downs way and a cycle around the Isle of Wight with my co-rider Alex Ryan. I think it was the wind and the rain on those challenges that made us decide it would be better to do the next challenge somewhere hot. I know the island of Majorca well and felt cycling the island would be a great opportunity to see the island in a different way. I suppose it was complete naivety that caused me not to consider the hills and mountains which dominate the island in too much detail!
Having done a lot of off road cycling, we decided not to go to the extra expense of purchasing road bikes and instead took along our hybrid mountain bikes. We planned a route around the island, breaking the 200 miles up into 4 days, and separating the mountain days as we began to acknowledge these would present our biggest challenge.
Day one started at 7.30am, with the first challenge being to rebuild our bikes after they had been packed away for the flight. An hour and some backwards handle bars later, we set off into thick fog…this wasn't the deal! We headed around the East coast of the island, and area of the island which boasts stunning coastal views, which we couldn't see because of the fog! We made quick progress along this delightfully flat coastal road and ended up in Felanitx for lunch and some inspiration from the home of the Majorcan cycling champion Guillem Timoner.
Bradley Wiggins has been quoted as saying that Majorca is like Scaletrix for cyclists, and I have certainly never seen so many of them all in one place! And every single one of them had a gorgeous, carbon fibre, light weight racing bike. Our mountain bikes were looking clumpier and heavier by the minute. Day one ended in the town of Arta after 63.5 miles of really rather enjoyable cycling.
The route for day two began our mountain challenge, setting off from the far North of the island and winding our way Eastwards from Soller to Port de Pollensa. The ride began with a 10 mile climb up the mountain. To say it was killer is an understatement, it was truly one of the most challenging rides we have ever done, making the hills of the South Downs Way seem like childs play.
The emotion I felt when hitting the top of the hill and beginning a rapid descent was intense, heightened by the speed with which the next uphill stint hit us! At this point Alex and I developed a real resentment towards those whizzing past us on racing bikes, and Alex likened what we were trying to achieve as being like running the London Marathon in a Mr Blobby suit! The final descent into Pollensa was nothing short of exhilarating, and we got stupidly brave going as fast as we could around the corners! That is until we passed ambulances coming to the rescue of a British cyclist who had overshot a hairpin bend and ended up going straight over the barrier and 20 metres down the side of the mountain.
Day three began with a leisurely ride around the bay of Palma, a part of the trip I had been particularly looking forward to. The bay is flat and beautiful and we zipped round it in record speed. We then had to head back up and over the mountains to reach our end point for the day in Andratx. Having always used the motorways to get around the island on holidays, I was unprepared for the unspoilt beauty through the villages of Calvia and Es Capdella. Stunning views met us, with almond farms and lone goats wandering around the roads with the bells jangling. In sharp contrast to this was the military zone we had to pass through, which was a little scary as we found a used shell on the road we were cycling along. We made good time to Andratx and as ever our faithful driver, my daughter Polly, was there to meet us for an end of the day beer and debrief.
Day 4 was the best days riding I have ever had. I began the day with great in trepidation….we were back in the mountains. Gulp. However the initial climb did not seem quite as horrendous as day two, and we were soon met by some exciting down hills and some charming villages. We whizzed through Valledemossa and Banubalfa, stopping for a quick coffee and an energy bar in Escellencs. Once again the scenery was incredible and we found ourselves having to stop regularly to take in the terraces and olive groves. A slightly less natural view was presented when we were forced to stop for 20 minutes whilst a Jaguar advert was being filmed on the mountain roads. We got to see the whole thing and I was fully convinced of the need to buy a new XF!
We made excellent time again on this day, exhilarated by the end being in sight and the immense fun of the final days riding. We ended up at the beach in the small town of Sant Elm, surprising Polly with our early arrival as she had just settled down for an afternoon relaxing on the beach. We claimed our final reward with a few beers on the beach and a relaxing afternoon soaking up the sun. What a day!
Cycling around Majorca was a fantastic challenge, with challenge certainly being the operative word. I saw the island that I love in a new light and faced difficulties and challenges I didn't know I could cope with. The trip would not have been the same without my fellow cyclist Alex and my driver Polly. Alex was a fantastic support, offering constant encouragement whilst struggling with his own pain, always ready to offer words of wisdom, sports massage or entertaining anecdotes! Polly was on hand at all times, turning up where we needed her to be and always providing food and drink when needed. Without these two I would not have done this challenge, so thank you.'
Neil and Alex are already thinking about their next challenge, with the focus this time of being which country is outstandingly beautiful but also flat…Holland maybe?!
Neil completed this cycle challenge in aid of the Dame Vera Lynn Trust, and has already raised over £1000. His JustGiving page is still open though and any donations would be greatly appreciated: http://www.justgiving.com/GLNeilCycle


text:
As iPhone season amps up — and make no mistake, the rumor mill is already spinning at full speed — we're bound to see "leak" after "leak." The latest comes by way of a site called KitGuru.net, which claims to have a "test unit" of the device. That's about where the post lost me, not to mention the fact that the image looks Photoshopped.
But let's just set that aside for a moment. The images shown actually take into account most of what we've seen/heard before. The iPhone 5 is expected to have a larger screen with the same 640px width, and we also expect a new 19-pin mini connector instead of the usual 30-pin port.
So while 97 percent of me believes this isn't the real deal (I'm not a total cynic), it's still valuable to have a clearer look at what's expected, even in blurry form. The real value is seeing the "iPhone 5 test unit" alongside an iPhone 4S. This should give fanbois a nice comparison look at what's expected to be a 4.08-inch display.
Again, I would be heart-attack-style surprised to find out that KitGuru was playing around with an early iPhone 5 unit. That just doesn't happen. But it's somewhat strange that the site pulled the post. Trusted Reviews speculates that the pull-down has something to do with Apple's involvement, whereas I'm thinking the site is trying to get a little extra credibility by acting like Apple requested the post removal.
In either case, the images are in line with the more dominant rumors out there so I suggest getting comfortable with the new size and ports. Whether this image is real or a hoax (and methinks it's a hoax), those new features are likely to be true.