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You may want to read:
Purpose – The primary reason for this podcast is because there is a systemic problem with a harshness that has been in our ranks for decades. It becomes acutely problematic when we're rebuking someone. This incident is not an anomaly, but part of a culture that is no longer hidden from public scrutiny or reaction.
I have been speaking out for years about a the lack of compassion within the biblical counseling movement. Truth and love is a thing, and knowing how to steward these ideas collectively takes wisdom. We have hurt a lot of people by our tones, attitudes, and words. This problem is also common with other Evangelical leaders, not just in the BC world.
Disclaimer – I do not follow John or Beth; I follow Cephas (1 Corinthians 1:12). (My pastor's name is Peter.) Perhaps being an outsider is an excellent position to observe since I'm not emotionally connected to either John or Beth. But I am a graduate of The Master's University (TMU) in Santa Clarita, CA.
This school is under the ministry that John leads. TMU is a valley or two over from the main campus of Grace Community Church and the seminary. I attended TMU in the late 90s and earned a Master's in Biblical Counseling (MABC). My season of study was one of the most transformative and encouraging of my Christian experience. It was full-on personal sanctification for two years with no breaks. It was an outstanding opportunity and privilege.
I've never had a conversation with John MacArthur, nor taken any classes from him, though I did shake his hand when I received my diploma. And I have heard him preach, maybe twenty times.
In August 2019, I had the privilege of leading a conference at the church where Beth Moore attends, which was for a group of students in their "in house" school. I was asked to teach on biblical counseling, which was an amazing experience as well, to serve a few folks at that church. Similar to John, I do not know Beth. I've never read any of her books or attended her conferences. I have watched a few of her videos online.
Beliefs – I hold many of the views that John teaches. I'm essentially Reformed and hold to the sufficiency of the Scripture worldview. I'm also complementarian, which means that there is both a hierarchy and equality between the two genders. I add that there is equality because a man is not better than a woman and only leads in some instances as a matter of function, but not ontology.
As for my view on women in the church, my pastor gave a sermon on that here. You're welcome to listen to the entire series on gender confusion, which was excellent.
As to that video, I do not disagree with John's view, as outlined on the night in question. But what I found off-putting was how John responded by saying that Beth Moore should "go home." While I understand his point, he did not communicate it well, which hurt his message.
A few of John's friends and fans have challenged me on my perspective about his rebuke, and all of them have missed the point that I'm making, which I hope to clarify here. Some of their questions to me were,
These sincere folks are having a hard time parsing out the attitude from the rebuke, both key elements when you're admonishing someone. More on that later.
For the record, I don't support her views on feminism, social justice, and egalitarianism, as I understand them, and I don't have an issue with someone rebuking a public figure who is leading folks astray. I am a complementarian. However, my view on women does accommodate them leading in all sorts of capacities, but not as an elder of a local church.
E.g., Brandi Huerta, a graduate of our Mastermind Program is an outstanding theologian, and she helps me supervise our students in our program, both men and women. She works specifically in our theology department. We also have women providing advice to those who come to our forums, which includes them helping men and women.
It appears that some folks consider rebuke and attitude at odds with each other. In their minds, if I focus on the attitude conveyed, I'm diminishing the significance or necessity of the warning needed. In counseling, both attitude and correction are essential.
If I say something in such a way that it will unnecessarily offend the person, they will not focus on what they need to hear. This problem and solution is not rocket science.
Every reasonable Christian knows that if you want to rebuke a person, your word choices are of utmost importance. And when it comes to admonitions, it's not the time for off-the-cuff comments that lack preparedness, which can open the door to exactly what happened as a result of that night.
The most appropriate thing for John to do is say that his "go home" word choice was not wise, and it was not his intent for that to be the primary takeaway from what he shared. And on reflection, he would say it differently, and he hopes that Beth and others would want to dialogue about the content of his concerns rather than focusing on his flippant words at the beginning.
Perhaps John has done this; I do not know. But what I do know is that some of his defenders have drawn a hard line in the sand that discounts some of John's words while focusing on the others. Recently, I said,
When the attitude you have toward someone speaks louder than your righteous arguments against them, your solid (biblical) points will get lost, you'll alienate those you could reach, and you will galvanize the opposition.
And sure enough, these three things have happened.
There are many complementarian people, who hold to a sufficiency of Scripture worldview, who see this problem. I'm not talking about "Beth's people," though I understand why they would take offense. Rebukes are the most severe and crucial ways of communicating in the Bible.
That video sounded like a bunch of people at a family reunion talking about their aunt who was not there. And then she got the video, along with a few of her friends. John lost them at "go home," and the audience punctuated the moment with their laughter and applause. Though it plays well before the home team, it lost its needed effect outside Grace Community Church.
We live in a different world today. I understand this as well as anyone. I have never spent more time crafting my writings since the advent of the mobile phone (2007) and all the social media platforms that came afterward.
Everyone has a megaphone; nobody lives in a silo any longer. We're more than a decade into this new day, which is why the thought leaders should be setting the example for how we communicate across the Internet. Every word is dissected and scrutinized. And though you're not going to win all your enemies, it's not a good day when we're losing our own because of how we communicate.
And though social media is new, the problem I'm addressing is not. We would not be here if we were more careful about how we communicate with one another. The issue is not social media primarily, but how we talk. Today's megaphone (social media) merely highlights what was always there (harshness).
The reason we hear about pastoral abuse is not that it's more prevalent than years ago. It's because there is a "megaphone" that can highlight the problem. Whether it's abuse or, in this case, poor communication, there would not be an issue if we were better stewards of our hearts. What used to be hidden is now brought into the light—by the Internet (Luke 6:45).
One national leader told me that John could say any critical thing that he wanted to about a man, e.g., Steven Furtick, but if he speaks out against a woman, it becomes a national story. He is correct. The issue he is raising is part of this new day. My friend needs to understand this new way of conducting our business. Ironically, he was making my point, to which I say,
If you know that women are more sensitive to open rebukes and hot topic issues, why aren't you more careful about how to formulate and articulate your rebukes?
Women and men do respond to critique differently. I see this problem regularly on my Facebook page. And because I know that some women, generally speaking, are more reactive to topics like leadership and submission, I spend more time word-crafting how I talk about those things. My goal is to serve them, not incite them.
Some will argue that it does not matter what you say because some women will "shrill" anyway. To which I respond,
If you know this, then you should understand the critical necessity of being careful.
This perspective is Marriage 101, Parenting 101, Relationships 101. It's common sense. The worst case of this is what we see our President doing. Though I'm glad about many of his policy-making decisions, I lament how he incites people. You can see the similarity to this "presidential issue" between John and Beth: the content is good, but the delivery is not. Believers can do better.
Many of the folks who defended how John rebuked Beth cited the rebukes of Jesus and other biblical characters. Ironically, these "sufficiency of Scripture people" were using narrative sections of the Bible as normative. I did see the humor. But the comeback is, "Are you saying because it's a narrative, we can't do it?"
Of course, you can do it. But as you use narrative to make your points, be sure to use all the Bible, not just those passages that show strength, power, might, admonition, warning, and rebuke. Paul would be a good case study here as you see his super-strong and severe warnings to the Corinthians. Of course, you don't begin with his admonitions, which started in 1 Corinthians 1:10. You start with his preface to the forthcoming rebukes.
Paul, called by the will of God to be an apostle of Christ Jesus, and our brother Sosthenes, To the church of God that is in Corinth, to those sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints together with all those who in every place call upon the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, both their Lord and ours: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
I give thanks to my God always for you because of the grace of God that was given you in Christ Jesus, that in every way you were enriched in him in all speech and all knowledge— even as the testimony about Christ was confirmed among you— so that you are not lacking in any gift, as you wait for the revealing of our Lord Jesus Christ, who will sustain you to the end, guiltless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is faithful, by whom you were called into the fellowship of his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord (1 Corinthians 1:1-9).
The one thing that I don't hear from a lot of folks when they are rebuking someone is Paul's compassion for them. Read the passage and consider the rebuke of Beth Moore, or, more importantly, how you admonished someone recently.
If we're going to use Scripture to make our points, the Corinthians makes the Bible's Top Ten List of Mean-spirited, Heretics, Hostile to the Gospel, and Hatred of a Christian Man. Regardless, Paul spent time on his knees where God gave him affection for these unruly, undisciplined, and unbiblical people.
If you have a friend who has gone so far off the theological rails, there should be weeping and pity mixed with your rebukes. This narrative about Jesus gets at this blend of pity and rebuke:
O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to it! How often would I have gathered your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you were not willing! See, your house is left to you desolate. For I tell you, you will not see me again, until you say, 'Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord' (Matthew 23:37-39).
Some folks have a hard time putting "compassion and rebuke" in the same sentence. They err on one side or the other.
If you love someone correctly, you will rebuke them when it's warranted. If you don't have affection for them, it will come across with an attitude that will miss the mark. One lady told me that she would be afraid to talk to John and friends because of how they come across. Let that be an admonition.
One of the instructive things about the time when Jesus rebuked the moneychangers, is that afterward, folks began to gather around Him. They were not afraid because they sensed they could be around Him. My MacArthur fan, who happens to be a complementarian said she would be scared to come to some of her fellow Reformers.
Rick launched the Life Over Coffee global training network in 2008 to bring hope and help for you and others by creating resources that spark conversations for transformation. His primary responsibilities are resource creation and leadership development, which he does through speaking, writing, podcasting, and educating.
In 1990 he earned a BA in Theology and, in 1991, a BS in Education. In 1993, he received his ordination into Christian ministry, and in 2000 he graduated with an MA in Counseling from The Master's University. In 2006 he was recognized as a Fellow of the Association of Certified Biblical Counselors (ACBC).


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The Comedy Club
$12 General Admission
$9 Student/Senior
$7 Member
Visiting Artist
** Filmmaker in attendance for a Q&A with fellow comic Brett Hamil! **
Cobb's Comedy Club in San Francisco first opened in 1982 and became a breeding ground for young comedians hoping to make a name for themselves. Jim Carrey, Dana Carvey, Paula Poundstone, Bob Saget, Ellen DeGeneres, Bobcat Goldthwait, Bill Maher, Kevin Pollak and many more developed at the small club and the bookings and ownership belonged to Tom Sawyer, a true fan with a keen eye for emerging talent.
After a fire destroyed the club in 2002, Tom enlisted a crew of comedians to help rebuild the iconic club, having to move it from its original location to a larger venue. The move combined with the new era of comedy – where cable television courted many comedians away from the small stage – has Cobb's struggling to survive.
Told completely through archival footage and interviews, filmmaker David C. Schendel (Yank Tanks, 2003) documents the roller coaster ride to re-open and maintain the legendary independent venue, while showing how dedicated one man has to be to keep it open. The Comedy Club, like many of the acts that graced the stage, is not to be missed.

subset: commoncrawl


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Round 5 Review
Sunday 13 May 2018
Regional winners decided in FFA Cup
Football Mid North Coast and North Coast Football will both be represented at the Northern NSW Football's (NNSWF) quarter-final stage to be contested from the 9th to 11th June at the Lake Macquarie Regional Football Facility.
Port United FC defeated Demon Knights FC 2-0 in the opening fixture at C.ex Coffs International Stadium. Both sides went into the match backing up from Saturday's extra time fixtures. Neither side could make anything count during the opening 45 minutes despite positive lead up play in both team's midfield units. Port United took control of the match in the second stanza care of goals from Jake Pugh in the 59th minute and Harrison Gordon in the 70th minute to book their place in NNSWF's Final 8.
In the second game, Boambee dominated the match running out 5-2 winners over their Bangalow opponents. Luke France netted a first half brace and was backed up by a Brady Parker hat trick in the second half. Bangalow fought back hard in the second period but couldn't contain the Boambee attack. Boambee now progresses to the NNSWF Final 8.
Boambee Bombers and Port United FC will now ply their skills against tough opposition from the National Premier Leagues Northern NSW teams in the NNSWF quarter-finals and semi-finals on June 10 and 12. The two winners from that weekend will represent Northern NSW Football in the National FFA Cup Round of 32.
Round 4 Review
Saturday 12 May 2018
All Four Regional Zones Still Alive After Round 4 of the FFA Cup
C.ex International Stadium hosted the FFA Cup Regional Qualifiers Round 4 fixtures today with strong contenders from Northern NSW Football's (NNSWF) four regional Member Zones.
In the first two matches of the day goals rained in from everywhere with a collective fourteen scored across both matches.
Boambee Bombers went on a field day against Kempsey Saints with Luke France and Lachlan Moye scoring a brace each to lead Boambee to a comfortable 5-0 win. Boambee now advance to Round 5 of the Qualifying Weekend.
In the second fixture it took extra time to determine the result between Urunga FC and Port United FC after a 4-4 draw at the end of regulation time. A Matt Broderick goal deep in the second period of extra time gave Port United a 5-4 victory after a tense battle where either side could have jagged the result.
In both of evening matches, it was a tight affair in both fixtures, however, qualifiers emerged from both Football Far North Coast and Northern Inland Football providing representation for both Zones heading into Round 5.
Goonellabah FC and Demon Knights FC played out a goalless draw after 90 minutes forcing the match into extra time where Naran Singh grabbed the advantage for Demon Knights who finished strongly over their Football Far North Coast opponents to win the match 1-0.
Bangalow SC and Tamworth FC went into half-time with the scores locked at 1-1, however, Bangalow came out of the break inspired and charged into Round 5 with two goals in the second half to take out fixture 3-1.
Round 5 of the Northern Conference Qualifying Weekend was drawn at random at the conclusion of Round 4 assisted by the four winning team captains.
Round 5 will see Port United FC take on Demon Knights FC at 10am and Bangalow SC taking on Boambee Bombers at 12pm.
Both Fixtures will be held at the C.ex International Stadium on Sunday 13 May.


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Do Republicans Wish They Retroactively Had Let Newt Sustain His Bain Attacks?
Two soundbites from the Sunday shows have made a big stink: Mitt Romney's former Bain partner, Ed Conard, admitting that Mitt was legally CEO of Bain until 2002. And GOP fixer Ed Gillespie, distancing Mitt from the outsourcing Bain did by insisting Mitt had "retroactively retired" before all the bad stuff happened but while (Conard confirmed) he was legally CEO.
All that's on top of the fact that Mitt was profiting mightily from this vulture capitalism and siphoning the money to his offshore havens in Bermuda and Cayman Islands, which we're not yet really talking about.
More telling, though, is the list of Republicans now calling on Mitt to release more his tax returns:
- Columnist Bill Kristol
- AL Governor Robert Bentley
- Lobbyist and former MS Governor Haley Barbour
- Columnist George Will
- Strategist Matt Dowd
- Strategist Ana Navarro
- Strategist John Weaver
Now, none of these people–with the possible exception of Barbour–are big insiders who have any leverage over Mitt. Moreover, I can't think of any way that any of them would definitely know the content of Mitt's tax returns.
But what if they do? What if they know or suspect that those tax returns would expose not just Mitt's role in Bain (including how much they paid him in salary in 2001 and 2002 to do, Mitt claims, absolutely nothing), but how much money he siphoned away to tax havens so as to avoid paying his fair share to the country he now wants to lead? What if they know the tax returns will doom his campaign, and want to force him to release them now, while they can still replace him with Chris Christie or someone else? (To be fair, with such a diverse mix of GOPers, I suspect they've got different motives for their comments, including–some of them–good faith belief releasing the forms would be best.)
Which makes me think back to the week in January when the GOP had the chance to fully expose what Mitt did at Bain–with the video Newt's SuperPAC released above–but backed off that chance. (h/t ZachBeauchamp for finding a working copy)
Newt released the video on January 7. By January 10, Newt accused Mitt of undermining capitalism. But then, on January 11, he reversed himself, claiming he overstepped and asking his SuperPAC to edit the video, using the same claims of inaccuracy advanced by fact checkers that have foundered on the obvious facts included in SEC filings now. But by January 17, he was calling on Mitt to release his tax returns. Newt won the South Carolina primary on January 21. On January 24, Mitt released a single tax return, showing he paid very little in taxes and had tax shelters in Switzerland (now closed), Bermuda, and Cayman Islands, but revealing nothing about what he did in the key years in 2001 and 2002. Since Mitt won the nomination, Newt has even warned Democrats not to attack Mitt on the same terrible Bain record he himself did.
I sort of get the feeling Newt knows what's in Mitt's tax returns. Indeed, I've seen oblique tweets from a few Republicans this weekend saying "I told you so" and paying off debts, leading me to believe more than a few Republicans tried to warn their party that this Bain thing would blow up and are now being vindicated.
In any case, I wonder (as does Steve Benen) whether Republicans are trying to claim a mulligan, now that this Bain record has come back into play. I wonder if they're wishing that Newt had at least sustained his attacks on Mitt's Bain record, so they wouldn't be saddled with such a toxic–and potentially worsening problem–in their candidate. That's not to say the GOP actually wanted Newt to beat Romney with these attacks; he's guilty of the same arrogance and corruption, if on a smaller scale. That's not to say they liked the way obvious attacks on Bain discredited a kind of capitalism that they not only support, but is heavily funding the GOP side of this campaign (the Democratic side, too, though not as generously as it did in 2008). But had Newt sustained that attack, they probably wouldn't be dealing with Mitt's meltdown right now, and probably wouldn't be dealing with Mitt, the candidate, at all.
For the record, there's one Republican who has definitely seen Mitt's tax returns. As Brian Beutler pointed out the other day, McCain's former campaign manager Steve Schmidt saw 20 years of Mitt's tax returns when vetting Mitt to be John McCain's Veep. And at least in January–he has remained conspicuously silent during this latest flap–Schmidt said Mitt shouldn't release anymore tax returns.
I think that he`s the front-runner in the race. I think he`s the most likely person to be the nominee of the party. And I would never advise him to disadvantage himself with issues like his taxes, against what is precedent for campaigns.
I think that he will probably do what presidents and vice presidents typically have done with regard to the release of their taxes. But if it was good enough for John Kerry, it ought to be good enough for Mitt Romney. He shouldn`t release information that disadvantages himself and opens up a lot of attacks.
(I've asked Beutler for the date of this quote–it sounds like it came before Mitt released any tax returns, but I'm not clear if it came after Newt had released the video.) Update: Schmidt made these comments on January 10, the last day of Newt's attack on Bain's record. Interesting.


text: And so tonight ends the Year of the Snake, according to the Chinese horoscope, and we move into the Year of the Earth Horse. Whatever your plans are tonight and for the next two weeks, take care of yourselves. If you're in the Dallas vicinity, now would be a perfect time to see the Chinese Lantern Festival (especially considering the unusually warm conditions tonight). In our case, the Czarina and I are visiting both the Crow Collection of Asian Art's Chinese New Year Festival in downtown Dallas and the Dem Cho Hoa festivities in Grand Prairie. Should you head out that way, we'll see you there.


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IMPORTANT: No additional bug fixes or documentation updates will be released for this version. For the latest information, see the current release documentation.
statsd module is a Metricbeat module which spawns a UDP server and listens for metrics in StatsD compatible
Metric typesedit
The module supports the following types of metrics:
- Counter (c)
- Measurement which accumulates over period of time until flushed (value set to 0).
- Gauge (g)
- Measurement which can increase, decrease or be set to a value.
- Timer (ms)
- Time measurement (in milliseconds) of an event.
- Histogram (h)
- Time measurement, alias for timer.
- Set (s)
- Measurement which counts unique occurrences until flushed (value set to 0).
Module-specific configuration notesedit
statsd module has these additional config options:
- It defines how long a metric will be reported after it was last recorded. Irrespective of the given ttl, metrics will be reported at least once. A ttl of zero means metrics will never expire.
Currently, there is only
server metricset in
statsd module.
The metricset collects metric data sent using UDP and publishes them under the
statsd prefix.
Example configurationedit
The Statsd module supports the standard configuration options that are described in Modules. Here is an example configuration:
metricbeat.modules: - module: statsd host: "localhost" port: "8125" enabled: false #ttl: "30s"
The following metricsets are available:
Most Popular
Intro to Kibana
ELK for Logs & Metrics


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Dusk fell outside the Bustop Gentlemen's Club on Broadway at the far edge of north Boulder. Skye, a Bustop regular dressed in a miniskirt and stiletto boots, hoisted herself up the chrome pole that had been erected in the parking lot as four other dancers shimmied and swayed around her to R&B.
Kneeling at the base of the pole, one of the dancers flicked a lighter and ignited a pool of kerosene in a circle of fire. Gripping the pole with her thighs, Skye spun upside-down, flames licking inches away.
The performance ended to thunderous applause from the 40 or so audience members, but contrary to strip club etiquette, not a single dollar bill was tossed. That's because this wasn't the typical nudie bar crowd, but an event held by local artists called Transforming the Bustop, commemorating the end of the club's 42-year run and its replacement with affordable housing and artist space.
Though Sept. 1 marked the closing of the Bustop Gentleman's Club and the building itself is soon to be demolished, its impact on the Boulder community — for better or for worse — is unlikely to fade anytime soon.
Community of friends
"It had been around so long you could just feel the energy of all the women who had ever been through there," says Tesla, 30, who danced at the Bustop for three years. "I've worked all over the country and not many clubs you can just walk into and feel instant camaraderie among the women."
"It's a legacy of family that has been there for a long time that gets transmitted to every group of girls that works there," says Dalia, 31, a 5-year veteran.
"All the girls there were very family, it felt like," agrees Cinnamon, speaking of her four years at the club. "You go to other places and you're lucky to find a couple of actual friends, [but] the girls there, we actually hung out."
While the dancers generated the unique atmosphere, staff played a vital role in maintaining it.
"Best job I've ever had," says Kurt, DJ and security from 2016 until its closing. "It was more of a community of friends."
In 1993, Ken Scar responded to an ad in the paper for a DJ at the Bustop, but didn't realize it was for a strip club until he came in for an interview.
"At first I was like, I don't know if I can work at a place that takes advantage of women and demeans women," he says. "But after you're there for a while you realize it's not that way at all, it's quite the opposite: it's the men that go in those places that are taken advantage of."
Riding the Bus
A business like the Bustop couldn't have subsisted for over four decades without a steady client base. Judging from the feedback of several of its former patrons, it's clear the club had a certain appeal.
"I had a good time drinking, watching all the women in there," says Jeff, 62, who first visited the Bustop soon after its 1977 opening. "Most of them were real friendly. The atmosphere was pretty open."
Similarly, scads of online activity attested to the club's early popularity.
"Miss the days of pool, poker and blackjack tables," wrote NoCoGeezer, an on-and-off patron for 30 years, on an online forum dedicated to escorts called The Other Board.
Dozens of Yelp reviews also helped paint a picture of what things were like back in the day.
"I had my first experiance [sic]…at a gentlemens [sic] club here and I never expected that I would be discussing politics with a topless dancer wearing a necklace that said 'Perfect Mom,'" recounted Aaron M.
"Nowhere else in the universe could you see a fellow classmate, a grad teacher, a friend's mom and a girlfriend dance in the same day…." shared Uncle Fishbits.
Early Days
When the Bustop Night Club (as it was called at the time) opened its doors in 1977, it featured both women and men. In an ad in the Greeley Tribune, the Bustop boasted of being the "only club in [Colorado] that has male dancers for your pleasure," and proudly featured Lee, NCAA wrestling champ of 1974.
Back in the mid-to-late '80s, NoCoGeezer recalls the Bustop being more of a locals bar than a strip club. Thanks to the cheap beer, billiards, poker and blackjack tables, both men and women frequented the place, and he remembers one long stage he says resembled that of an old burlesque house.
When the club first changed hands, he says the single stage, billiards and card tables were switched out with several smaller stages and private dance areas, transforming the place from a "locals bar that just happens to also have boobs to a standard strip club and the hustle for tips and private dances."
But it wasn't until 1990, when Omar Aldabbagh took over, that the Bustop's local legend status was ensured.
The reign of Aldabbagh
Amer "Omar" Aldabbagh, 66, was born in Baghdad, Iraq, entered the U.S. in 1973, and soon found work at a cluster of Chicago strip clubs owned by his older brother Ussama "Sam" Aldabbagh.
In 1974, Omar was arrested for a handful of liquor license violations and for being the "keeper of a disorderly house," neither of which resulted in convictions, according to a 2014 City of Boulder Beverages Licensing Authority Preliminary Findings and Report.
In 1977, he was twice charged with the crime of keeping a house of prostitution, but that didn't stick either. In written communications with the City of Boulder, he explained the arrest only happened thanks to a Chicago Police Department custom of pinching everyone on site during a raid.
Indeed, the Aldabbaghs insisted in media accounts that the police attention was nothing but harassment and that they were routinely shaken down by corrupt cops. Shortly thereafter, the Aldabbaghs started up several clubs in and around Phoenix, Arizona, yet their legal troubles followed close behind.
In 1979, the younger Aldabbagh was cited for more liquor license violations and was accused of allowing overexposed dancers and physical contact with patrons. In 1981 he plead guilty to permitting customers to play blackjack with real money and in 1983 the U.S. Department of Labor filed a lawsuit against him for allegedly withholding pay from staff. Though he denied the charges, he eventually paid out $5,500 in back wages.
Two years later Omar became a naturalized citizen and in 1990, he purchased the Bustop. Then the hammer dropped.
In 1992, 200 federal and state authorities raided over a dozen Aldabbagh establishments in Arizona, Minnesota and Colorado — including Omar's Denver residence — garnering 30 arrests ranging from racketeering, to prostitution, to influencing and tampering with witnesses, to tax fraud.
According to media accounts at the time, the Arizona Department of Public Safety accused Aldabbagh and associates of being responsible for half of the prostitution in the Phoenix area, with Omar as the "major figure."
The Federal Bureau of Investigation referred to Aldabbagh's operations as a "perfect example of non-traditional organized crime that was operating at a sophisticated level," while the state liquor director for Arizona dubbed him simply a "sleazy operator."
Police also accused him of running shell corporations with hidden ownerships to throw regulators off the trail. Later that year he was indicted on nine counts of "knowingly" neglecting to file personal and business income tax returns from 1988-1992, all felonies.
Ultimately, Aldabbagh plead guilty to several misdemeanor charges of attempt to commit fraud, forfeited a quarter-million dollars in assets, was saddled with three years probation, and banned from further business in Arizona.
Since then, Aldabbagh appears to have stayed out of trouble, focusing on the Bustop, his two Las Vegas strip clubs, and breeding racehorses — including a former champion named Omar.
[Boulder Weekly made multiple unsuccessful attempts to contact Aldabbagh for this story.]
Unlike the Bustop, Aldabbagh's reviews from former employees are mixed.
"I've met a lot of bar owners," Scar says. "Most of them are kind of slimy and [Aldabbagh was] no exception."
"He's pleasant enough as long as you're not really engaging with him," Cinnamon says of her handful of interactions with him over the years.
"He's definitely an opportunist," she continues, while also acknowledging that "he provided a good environment for us."
But it was the circumstances of the club's closing that finally spoiled Aldabbagh's reputation for many.
Closing time
Once Aldabbagh sold the 1.7 acre Broadway parcel to Allison Management for $2.8 million in 2016, it was clear the club's days were numbered. Just the same, when the Sept. 1 closing date finally came, it ended up being a surprise to nearly everyone, particularly the dancers.
A few of the dancers say they learned the truth the day-of from an Instagram post, while others found out from the organizer of Transforming the Bustop Merlyn Holmes, who came into the club to ask if any of the dancers would like to perform for the Sept. 29 event.
"Staff members said [the club was] definitely staying open until next year," Dalia recalls. "We were deliberately deceived."
Kurt, the house DJ, corroborates the fact that the management kept a lid on things until the final night.
Sierra, a Bustop dancer from 2016 until its closing, says she personally addressed the potential closing with Aldabbagh a month earlier, reminding him there were 40 to 50 dancers who counted on the club to support them and their families. With this in mind, she asked him to provide them with a two-week notice when he finally decided to shut the place down.
"He assured me he would let us know when he knew, and that it was not going to be closing for another long while and not to worry," she says. "And then he ended by telling me I was a pretty girl and I wouldn't have a hard time finding a job elsewhere. And that's when I knew he was totally full of shit."
Shadow Side
Not everyone is mourning the end of the Bustop Gentleman's Club. In fact, some locals are glad it's gone.
For the past three years Beth Merckel has taught people how to make jewelry at her nonprofit, Boulder Metalsmithing Association, next door to the Bustop. She cites the #MeToo movement as a reason clubs like the Bustop that "objectify women" aren't a positive influence in the community.
"I don't like this whole concept of women as sexual objects," agrees Susan Bertram, art therapist with Boulder Art Therapy Collective, who helped facilitate a mural painted on the wall of the Bustop at the Transforming event.
"I don't like the commercializing of it for profit," Betram says about stripping in general, while adding that she does "believe in women's ability to choose however they want to live their life."
One Boulder County resident and former stripper of seven years (who asked to remain anonymous), says the Bustop "existed because it profited from dehumanizing, objectifying and commodifying women. Men in the Boulder community participated in sexually subordinating women in this club."
"It is a good day when even one of these ventures fails," she says. "It will be an even better day when patriarchy has been eradicated from society and the exploitation of women and women's bodies is unthinkable."
Even some working dancers have misgivings about their chosen trade.
"For the most part [The Bustop] was a good place for me," Sierra says, while adding that, "I definitely saw a lot of girls just get run down by the place."
"You meet and see some people that, within a couple years that they start working there, they just completely declined," Sierra admits. "The club can destroy a person."
It's a Living
Aria, a 22-year-old former Bustop dancer, doesn't see herself as oppressed and doesn't appreciate those who do.
"I get really annoyed when people come in and try to save us," she says. "People act like they are so above us. I know that I'm an honest person and trustworthy and… yet I'm bad because I'm doing this? It's like, fuck you."
Aria started at the Bustop as a cocktail waitress to help pay her tuition at CU Boulder. But the long hours for low pay took their toll and when she got sick, she decided to switch to dancing.
"Dancing saved my life, definitely," says Tesla. "I have a house, two cars, I travel, I just got my welding certificate. But when I came here I was homeless with nothing. … Dancing was the only way I was able live a reasonable life and not kill myself with work."
While nearly all Bustop dancers cited money as their prime motivator — up to $1,000 a night, in some cases — it's far from the only one.
"Everyone is here for a reason," says Dalia. "We all have issues that we're bringing into it that we're trying to get over by doing this."
She says stripping allowed her to live a creative life, one she could control instead of having to conform to society. While she used to be worried about what other people thought about her, now she's "not afraid anymore. I don't care if I'm controversial because I'm actually happy."
Tesla believes stripping also serves a greater societal good by unstifling sexuality and says people have told her that her dancing has helped save their marriage. She even found dancing has made her a stronger self-advocate.
In 2012, Gesel Mason, former dance and theater assistant professor at CU Boulder, organized a dance performance at the Bustop to explore female sexuality.
A proponent of sexual expression through art, Mason sees nothing wrong with women undressing onstage, but articulates that "the problem [with stripping] is the erotic has been coopted by the pornographic."
"In a system that rewards women for their looks and a system that rewards men for their wealth, strip clubs are apple pie to America," she says.
Where Are They Now?
Skye, Tesla, Cinnamon, Livi, Sierra and Aria have all found work in other clubs around the Front Range, Denver and the country.
Sierra, however, admits it's "not really what I want to be doing anymore."
"It's exhausting, it's draining, and it's just a constant 24/7 party," she explains. "Eventually you kind of just need a break."
Dalia, too, is thinking of calling it quits. As a self-described "curvier girl," she's learned that most Denver-area clubs don't hire dancers with her "sort of body type."
Instead, she's been focusing on her music and creating a documentary about strippers, whose GoFundMe page touts an "unprecedented glimpse into the positive aspects of being a stripper."
Looking at her time at the Bustop in the rear-view mirror, Dalia mentions another Bustop dancer who she says plans to carry that "idea of friendship and community" to other area clubs. Dalia says it warmed her heart to hear that message and has high hopes that — even when the Bustop is just a memory — other members of the "family" will continue to transform the industry simply by being who they are.


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After a year of planning, a new program at Saint Alphonsus that prepares individuals for an environmental services technician (EVS) apprenticeship kicked off in September.
The free EVS Pre-apprenticeship Program at Saint Alphonsus in Boise and Nampa started as a conversation in August 2017 involving Saint Alphonsus, the Idaho Hospital Association and the Idaho Department of Labor.
The hospital was having difficulty filling EVS technician positions. These techs provide a vital function, ensuring hospitals are safe, clean and infection-free. Among other duties, they are trained to safely collect, store and dispose of hazardous materials.
Labor workforce consultant Ofelia Morales and representatives of the College of Western Idaho (CWI) Workforce Development and the Boise office of the International Rescue Committee (IRC), met with Saint Alphonsus' EVS program staff to discuss the issue.
"Each of the partners has pieces to share," Morales said. The Department of Labor helps with the cost of the apprenticeship for qualifying individuals through the federal Workforce Innovation & Opportunity Act program. "IRC has case managers, CWI offers the class and Saint Alphonsus offers the jobs," Morales said. The first pre-apprenticeship class has been funded and managed through the ESL Pathways Program at CWI.
According to Morales, many of the applicants for the EVS positions are refugees and have limited English proficiency. Since EVS technicians need to be able to safely communicate in English due to the technical health and safety aspects of the job, language barriers surfaced as an issue that training could help resolve.
The first group of 12 started the program in September. Classes are held twice a week for 12 weeks and include English as a Second Language where students learn technical terms and job-related skills.
Finishing the pre-apprenticeship class leads to an interview for the EVS apprenticeship. The yearlong apprenticeship starts at $12 an hour with benefit options. Participants are also able to work toward earning a national credential for EVS technicians. Though the certification is not required at the hospital now, it may someday and it could be useful if the individual wants to move into another job or health-related career, Morales said.
The hospital wants to build the program to provide a steady flow of workers for EVS technicians because as they perfect their skills, these workers can move up within the Saint Alphonsus Health Care system and potentially become certified nurse assistants (CNA), medical assistants (MA), technicians and a myriad of other health care opportunities, John Russ, administrator of the Apprenticeship Idaho program at the Idaho Department of Labor, said.
Toward the end of the pre-apprenticeship, Idaho Department of Labor staff will help students create resumes and prepare for applying and interviewing for the apprenticeship.
"We believe this may be the first program of this kind in the country. We'd like to see if other states might be interested in something like this," Russ said.
The overarching program at Saint Alphonsus that led to this program is Career Pathways and involves other occupations at the hospital that are also a challenge to find workers.
"It's all about communication and collaboration," Morales said. "And now we're ready to move on to the next Career Pathways project."
For more information about the program, contact Morales at firstname.lastname@example.com or at (208) 364-7781 ext. 3954. For more information about apprenticeships, contact Russ at (208) 332-3570 ext. 3303 or at firstname.lastname@example.com
– Jean Cullen, project coordinator
Idaho Department of Labor


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Restaurants Where Celebrities Eat When They Visit Montreal
Montreal is known to attract a lot of A-list Hollywood celebrities when they're shooting a movie in our wonderful city or are visiting for Grand Prix F1 festivities like other regular tourists. I think that Montreal is much more celebrity friendly than, let's say, New York city, where celebrities can't leave their hotel rooms without being harassed by paparazzis. I personally bumped into numerous celebrities in Montreal who were just casually strolling the streets of Downtown and Old Port like any other non-famous human beings.
3518 Boul St-Laurent
Legendary restaurant/club located on St-Laurent street has seen plenty of celebs over the years. Just to give you a little example, that's Justin Bieber, ladies. Hyperventilation mode: ON.
438 Place Jacques Cartier
Harlow has welcomed a lot of celebs this summer: Kylie Jenner, Scott Disick, Gigi Hadid, Dan Bilzerian... Here's a photo of Joe Jonas and restaurant's co-owner Brahms Yaiche.
Estiatorio Milos
5357 Av du Parc
Estiatorio Milos is a famous Greek restaurant that has welcomed a more than an average amount of hot celebs. Mike Meyers seemed to really enjoy his dinner and company.
Photo cred - Jessmidlash
Garde Manger
408 Rue Saint-François-Xavier
Garde Manger is a happening spot in the Old Montreal area where I've personally witnessed a whole bunch of famous people casually enjoying dinner and drinks without being bothered by anyone. Here's a photo I found of Jenson Button, a very handsome Formula 1 driver.
La Queue de Cheval
1181 Rue de la Montagne
This Montreal famous steakhouse is a professional celebrity host. That's Pitbull posing with the restaurant's manager earlier this year.
1232 Rue de la Montagne
This trendy downtown resto-bar is a go-to celebrity spot thanks to its convenient proximity to Bell centre. The photo above illustrates the best day of my life - I got to meet and have dinner with Anthony Kiedis from Red Hot Chilli Peppers, yeah...
1504 Rue Sherbrooke O
Bice is known for fine Italian dining and frequent celebrity sightings. Here's UFC champion Georges St-Pierre recently spotted at the restaurant.
1184 Place Phillips
Jatoba is a refined modern eatery serving Asian inspired dishes. As for the photo - I just had to post it... because I know y'all will appreciate this. Justin Trudeau and his wife seem to really like Jatoba.


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Sink or Swim – Demo Tape
Angry Vegan Straight Edge from Germany
Artist: Sink Or Swim
Title: Demo
Release: Tape
Year: 2008
Label: Kill The Hype
Sink Or Swim is a vegan straight edge band from Germany and they play exactly this type of hardcore you are going to hear from their first record which appeared in 2008 on a tape.
The guitars are rough like a chainsaw and give the music a nice metallic taste (beside that of human blood). The vocals are ferocious and straight-forward just like the lyrics. Sink Or Swim are tight and uncompromising like the shark jaws from the awesome cover artwork.
Our suggestion is: stop regretting Gather, they are no longer playing, and check Sink Or Swim. They are not only devastating with their sound and message but are doing it European style!


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The 25th anniversary of the Nike Air Max 90 has already seen some major releases like the "Cork" edition, but none are more important or anticipated than the one coming this weekend. We speak, of course, of the return of the more-than-iconic "Infrared" colorway in its original construction. Even though the shoe has released countless times already, there's no way you could have an anniversary celebration without it. But perhaps realizing that many Infrared fans probably already have a pair (or two) in their collection, Nike Sporstwear dishes out another option, the "Reverse Infrared" colorway, which flips the original's white, grey, and black portions around for a whole new look to the famous color scheme. Just in case you needed a side-by-side comparison between the old and new Infrared Air Maxes, we've got you covered. Take another look at each before their drop this Saturday, May 16th at select Nike Sportswear retailers around the globe.
Source: Titolo


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Sow Pretty Edible Cake Topper Image Strips
Regular price $11.99
Unit price
An easy way to dress up a Spring cake using the edible cake topper image strips. Catch eyes from across the room with these standout strips! Can also be used on fondant.
Strips are approximately 2.5" tall. One set of strips will cover approximately 30".


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shepton mallet
Woodlouse Conservation were called in to complete restoration works on this property after a less than satisfactory attempt had been carried out on the front elevation by another firm. Working closely with the Listed Buildings Officer, the Woodlouse Team removed the failing cement pebble-dash and applied a three-coat lime render with wood float finish, decorated in five coats of limewash. A great final result for a delighted client.
Another traditional property suffering the classic problems caused by the inappropriate use of cement-based render


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July 6, 2006 – Three months after tentatively agreeing to an eight-year, $1.6 billion deal to supply wafers to Taiwanese solar cell producer Motech Industries Inc., MEMC Electronic Materials Inc. has found greener pastures in a new deal with Beijing-based Suntech Power Holdings Ltd.
Under terms of the non-binding letter of intent, MEMC will supply solar grade silicon wafers to Suntech for a 10-year period with predetermined pricing, beginning in 1Q07. Sales over the duration are expected to generate $5-$6 billion in revenues for MEMC. Suntech also will advance an undisclosed amount of funds to MEMC, in the form of an interest-free loan or security deposit, to be used for expansion of MEMC's manufacturing capacity. In addition, MEMC will receive a warrant to purchase up to a 4.99% equity stake in Suntech.
According to a statement from MEMC, discussions with Motech indicated the parties "would be unable to reach mutually acceptable definitive agreements within the prescribed timeframe." Recent news reports pegged Motech as the No. 9 solar cell maker worldwide, and the top provider in Taiwan with about 50% market share.
MEMC has been actively pursuing the solar market for supply of its wafers, a segment seen growing at a >30% annual clip, noted MEMC CEO Nabeel Gareeb. "Suntech is a fast growing player in the solar market, and we are pleased with the prospect of helping them achieve a leading role in the marketplace," he added.
For Suntech, the deal ensures a future supply of silicon wafers for solar cell manufacturing, a segment whose appetite for silicon wafers has strained supplies in recent months, and likely will continue to tighten for at least the next year until new dedicated capacity for the solar segment can be brought online.
Suntech had six PV cell manufacturing lines with an aggregate annual capacity of 150MW at the end of 2005. It claims customers in Germany, Spain, China, and the US.


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Cautious Skeptics
September 28, 2016 – This is the largest segment of the Canadian population (25%), and its members are most likely to fall in the 35 to 54 age group (39% do). This group is made up of close to equally men (48%) and women (52%).
This group lands close to the Canadian average in responses to a number of questions. However, they are also characterized for their increased levels of skepticism when looking at society. Fully three-quarters (75%) say that they do not trust most of the stories coming out of the media. Additionally, six-in-ten (58%) say they do not trust the government to act in their best interest. On the specific question of homegrown terrorism, just over half (52%) say that politicians and the media have overblown the actual threat this poses.
Interestingly, when asked about how wealthy people have accumulated their riches, this group is substantially more likely than any group (85% to 57% average) to say that they did so through personal connections or luck rather than hard work.
While most Canadians (59%) lean toward expanding programs aimed to improve the conditions for Canada's First Nations, this group takes a split view. Here, half (49%) say that these programs and special status should be removed.


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Call 08046052803 85% Response Rate
We are one of the thriving manufacturers and suppliers of Packaging Machines Blades / Cutters & Sealers. Some of the products we offer include Pouch Packaging Machines Cutters/Blades, Electronic Products and Floating Seals. The machines are fabricated by us using genuine parts and as per defined industry guidelines. Our machines are acclaimed for peak performance, reliability, low maintenance and energy efficiency. The blades and cutters have sharp edges, smooth finish and are corrosion resistant. Our seals are known for ductile nature, durability and reliability.
Main products we offer are as follows:


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Searching for just a few words should be enough to get started. If you need to make more complex queries, use the tips below to guide you.
Purchase individual online access for 1 year to this journal.
Authors: Sukkar, Samir G.
Article Type:
DOI: 10.3233/s12349-009-0062-3
Citation: Mediterranean Journal of Nutrition and Metabolism,
vol. 2, no. 2, pp. 85-87, 2009
Authors: Testino, G. | Borro, P.
DOI: 10.3233/s12349-009-0038-6
Citation: Mediterranean Journal of Nutrition and Metabolism,
vol. 2, no. 2, pp. 89-91, 2009
Authors: Ferretti, G. | Bacchetti, T. | Masciangelo, S. | Bertoli, E.
Article Type:
Review Article
High-density lipoproteins (HDL) plasma levels are inversely correlated with the risk of atherosclerosis and coronary heart disease. The protective effect of HDL has been related to their role in the cholesterol reverse transport and to their ability to inhibit oxidation of low-density lipoproteins (LDL). Several lines of evidence suggest that the protective effect of HDL is at least partially related to the enzyme paraoxonase (PON1), a calcium-dependent esterase associated with the HDL surface. It has been hypothesised that PON1 may have two independent antiatherogenic roles: (a) by preventing the accumulation of oxidised lipids from oxidised lipoproteins (LDL and HDL) and
…thereby inhibiting the atherogenic and inflammatory response induced by lipid peroxidation products; (b) by detoxifying homocysteine thiolactone (HTL), a toxic metabolite of homocysteine. Recently, it has been reported that HDL-associated PON1 could also play a regulatory role in HDL binding to cell membranes and in HDL-mediated cholesterol efflux in macrophages. Several papers have reported that HDL are also able to protect and/or repair oxidative damage of cell membranes and we have recently demonstrated that the protective role of HDL is related to PON1 activity.
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Keywords: Antioxidant, Cardiovascular disease, High-density lipoproteins (HDL), Homocysteine thiolactone (HTL), Low-density lipoproteins (LDL), Oxidative stress, Paraoxonase (PON1)
DOI: 10.3233/s12349-009-0032-z
Citation: Mediterranean Journal of Nutrition and Metabolism,
vol. 2, no. 2, pp. 93-96, 2009
Authors: Vasilopoulou, Effie | Trichopoulou, Antonia
In the context of the EURRECA project (EURopean micronutrient RECommendations Aligned), we have estimated the micronutrient content of traditional Greek foods in relation to international recommendations. Many of these foods showed a rich micronutrient profile and a file was developed listing a total of 137 traditional Greek foods and dishes. This work indicates that in order to meet micronutrient requirements, a simple solution would be to adhere to traditional dietary patterns, at least for the Mediterranean populations, and reinstate traditional foods into the daily diet.
Keywords: Traditional foods, Micronutrients, Recommended Dietary Allowance
DOI: 10.3233/s12349-009-0045-4
Citation: Mediterranean Journal of Nutrition and Metabolism,
vol. 2, no. 2, pp. 97-102, 2009
Authors: Morillo, Juan Manuel | Bullon, Pedro | Ramirez-Tortosa, María del Carmen | Quiles, José Luis | Newman, Hubert N. | Bertoli, Enrico | Battino, Maurizio
There is increasing evidence of a relationship between periodontitis and several nutrition-linked chronic conditions, such as obesity, dyslipidaemia and metabolic syndrome, with a putative bidirectional influence between periodontal disease and each condition. An association between several dietary factors and the progression of periodontitis is relevant to this relationship. Thus, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin C, lactic acid foods, soy products and a diet rich in vegetables and fresh food appear to be favourable for better periodontal health, whereas a lipid-rich diet may be detrimental to periodontal tissues.
Keywords: Oxidative stress, Inflammation, Dyslipidaemia, Obesity, Metabolic syndrome, Diet, Periodontitis
DOI: 10.3233/s12349-009-0055-1
Citation: Mediterranean Journal of Nutrition and Metabolism,
vol. 2, no. 2, pp. 103-109, 2009
Authors: Fatati, Giuseppe | Mirri, Eva | Coaccioli, Stefano
Type 2 diabetes has become the most frequently encountered metabolic disorder in the world and obesity, meaning visceral adiposity, is the core problem. In the abdominal adipose tissue, insulin resistance (IR) reduces the antilipolytic effect of insulin, which in turn leads to reduced glucose uptake and increased release of free fatty acids (FFAs) and glycerol. Chronic exposure of beta cells to elevated FFA levels causes detrimental consequences such as increased insulin secretion at low glucose concentrations, decreased proinsulin biosynthesis, depletion of insulin reserves and reduced response to concentrations of glucose stimulus. Adipose peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPAR)-γ appears to be an
…essential mediator for the maintenance of whole-body insulin sensitivity that protects non-adipose tissue against lipid overload. Current data suggest that PPAR-γ-activating ligands improve adipose tissue function, and may prevent the progression of IR to diabetes and also endothelial dysfunction to atherosclerosis. Links between environmental influences, the layout of visceral fat, the PPARs, the adiponectin and the adipocytokines still need to be completely clarified.
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Keywords: Type 2 diabetes, Obesity, Visceral adiposity, Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors, PPARs
DOI: 10.3233/s12349-009-0048-1
Citation: Mediterranean Journal of Nutrition and Metabolism,
vol. 2, no. 2, pp. 111-118, 2009
Authors: Calabrese, G. | Sozzi, L. | Maj, M. | Rossi, F.
Article Type:
Research Article
The aim of our work was to assess the level of fruit and vegetable consumption in the meal provided by the school canteen, also assessing the degree of appreciation for the different fruit and vegetable types. Our focus was on school children in grades 1 (6 year olds) and 5 (10 year olds) so as to cover a broad age range and to assess how tastes and fruit and vegetable intake vary as a function of age. The children's liking of fruit was not homogeneous; oranges were the most appreciated fruits among 6 year olds while apples and kiwis were
…the least appreciated. The 10-year-old school children showed no statistically significant differences in their liking of certain fruit types. Fruit intake during the school meals was enough to meet a considerable amount of the vitamin C requirements, above all when oranges, kiwis and strawberries were eaten. Eating apples makes it possible to cover more than 10% of the fibre requirements. This is of great importance given its fundamental role. Although to a lower extent than vitamin C, fruit intake also allows a considerable percentage of the K nutritional requirements to be met, covering up to 28% in the case of bananas. As far as vegetables are concerned, tomatoes are the most popular among 10 year olds; given their high vitamin C content they make it possible to significantly cover the vitamin C requirements (24.5–34.1%). An important role is also played by the intake of carrots in relation to covering the retinol requirements (43.45% in grade 1 and 66.58% in grade 5).
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Keywords: School children, Fruit, Vegetables, Vitamin C, Index of appreciation
DOI: 10.3233/s12349-009-0039-5
Citation: Mediterranean Journal of Nutrition and Metabolism,
vol. 2, no. 2, pp. 119-125, 2009
Authors: Landoni, G. | Mariani, E. | Oriani, G. | Donarini, C. | Guerrerio, T. | Iorio, E.L.
Background: Cancer chemo- and radiotherapy are constantly associated with unwanted side effects at least partially ascribable to oxidative stress, an imbalance between pro-oxidant and antioxidant factors. However, the possible indication and efficacy of antioxidant supplementations – including glutathione-based formulas – aimed to restore the oxidative balance should be, respectively, evaluated and monitored carefully with reliable analytical tools. Aim: Because previous studies on cystic fibrosis and athletes showed that high-cysteine-content, whey-based formulas were able to improve glutathione levels in cystic fibrosis and in healthy exercising people, the aim of this preliminary study was to evaluate the impact on oxidative balance of
…a new antioxidant supplementation, based on a high-cysteine formula containing a protein mimicking breast milk, on women conventionally treated for breast cancer. Subjects and methods: Twenty women suffering from breast cancer under ambulatory conventional antineoplastic treatment were supplemented for 12 consecutive months with 10 g u.i.d. of an oral nutraceutical lipid- and lactose-free formula containing a mix of peptides from cow's milk whey having a high content of cysteine and glutamic acid as the main biochemical precursor of glutathione (Prother® , DMF Limbiate, MI, Italy). During the study period the recruited subjects underwent a periodical (bimonthly) clinical visit, during which they were tested for oxidative balance (BAP test and d-ROMs). Before and at the end of the study the women were invited to complete the Spitzer Questionnaire. Results: Plasma antioxidant capacity, as detected by the BAP test, showed a marked early trend towards a progressive increase, reaching statistical significance at the end of the treatment (2319.5 ± 288.7 vs. 1894.5 ± 362.5 μmol/l reduced iron, respectively; p = 0.007). Plasma oxidant status, as measured by means of the d-ROMs test, after an irregular time-course, increased significantly at the 12th month, compared to the baseline value (350.29 ± 39.29 vs. 407.00 ± 58.54 CARR U, respectively; p = 0.0017). The treatment was well tolerated. Discussion: The breast milk-mimicking protein formula intake was associated with a restoration of biological antioxidant potential, maybe by increasing the bioavailability of antioxidant components, and reduced glutathione, with no apparent interference with the intrinsic pharmacological/chemical mechanism (oxidant species generation) of the current treatment (chemo/radiotherapy). Conclusions: This preliminary study indicates that 12 months of regular oral intake of a high-content cysteine nutraceutic formula is associated with increased plasma antioxidant capacity in women conventionally treated for breast cancer. Moreover, the data from oxidative status assessment suggest that the above supplement did not interfere with oxidant production, the increase of which is related to the cancer and antineoplastic treatment itself. Finally, the d-ROMs and BAP tests were shown to be very reliable tools to monitor ambulatory oxidative balance in this kind of patient.
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Keywords: Oxidative stress, Antioxidants, d-ROMs test, BAP test, Whey proteins
DOI: 10.3233/s12349-009-0033-y
Citation: Mediterranean Journal of Nutrition and Metabolism,
vol. 2, no. 2, pp. 127-131, 2009
Authors: Střítecká, Hana | Hlubik, Pavol | Nováková, Jitka
The Czech Republic ranks among the countries with the highest prevalence of dyslipoproteinaemia and cardiovascular diseases (CVD). As a valid tool in the primary prevention of these the authors consider the monitoring of selected components (including metal ions and vitamins) of the antioxidant system in the organism. Oxidative damage of cells and tissues plays an important role in the aetiology of most so-called civilisation diseases. Endogen anti-oxidative protection of the human organism, e.g., in the form of superoxide dismutase, enzymes and selenium (Se), which abolish peroxide hydrogen, or in the form of proteins-binding metals, is insufficient taking into consideration the
…contemporary way of life in advanced countries. The objective of the present work was to determine total Se in the serum of 386 healthy volunteers from the Rescue Fire Brigades from selected areas of the Czech Republic. The serum Se concentration was determined by the direct electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry method. The mean serum Se concentration was determined between 0.67 and 0.93 μmol/l. There were no significant differences in values between gender, age and body mass index categories. The low levels of the element in the blood are probably due to its deficiency in the diet.
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Keywords: Serum selenium level, Deficiency, Czech Republic, BMI
DOI: 10.3233/s12349-009-0049-0
Citation: Mediterranean Journal of Nutrition and Metabolism,
vol. 2, no. 2, pp. 133-138, 2009
Authors: Festi, Davide | Colecchia, Antonio | Pini, Susy | Scaioli, Eleonora | Maffeis, Claudio | Coccheri, Sergio | Petroni, M. Letizia
The role of general practitioners (GPs) and family paediatricians (FPs) in nutrition education and counselling for the general population is crucial. However, time constraints, insufficient knowledge and lack of suitable educational instruments have so far prevented family doctors from having an active role in this respect. In this paper the project "Osservatorio Nutrizionale Grana Padano (ON-GP)", launched in 2005, an innovative and powerful tool for nutritional education and epidemiological monitoring by GPs and FPs, is described. GPs and FPs agreed to participate on a voluntary basis and were from all Italian regions. So far, since 2005, over 17,250 subjects (6306
…children and 10,944 adults) have been surveyed by 346 GPs and 207 paediatricians. In addition to the possibility of free use of the software for clinical and educational purposes, GPs and FPs are also invited to take part in epidemiological research in order to build a nationwide database. The results of the survey are disseminated on an annual basis to family doctors and as a press release to the media, together with messages of nutrition education targeted to the general population. The success of the project so far – beyond all expectations – has prompted the planning of further improvements.
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Keywords: Nutrition education, Epidemiological survey, Nutritional counselling, Food-frequency questionnaire, Lifestyle questionnaire
DOI: 10.3233/s12349-009-0047-2
Citation: Mediterranean Journal of Nutrition and Metabolism,
vol. 2, no. 2, pp. 139-144, 2009
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One of the residents on the top floor was Joe Welk. He was a cousin to Lawrence Welk. In the late 20's and early 30's. Lawrence Welk was not the celebrity he became later on. He would stay with Joe while his band was performing in the Minot area and many times at the Pavilion in Riverside Park, now Roosevelt Park. One of the early tenants lived in one of the basement apartments. She knew him only as Larry, cousin to Joe. She told my wife that Larry was always trying to get people to his dances, but she said "he wasn't that good" so they usually did not go. Years later she realized that the Larry she knew, was actually Lawrence Welk. Joe Welk kicked Larry out as he would run up Joe's phone bill trying to book his band in the northern part of the state, but never repaid Joe for the long distance calls. This was verified by Lloyd Heusers, a former teacher at Minot High and long time member of the Minot Park Board. As a child he lived in the house just west of our house. His father was a cab driver and a good friend of Lawrence Welk
Pictured is the house as it is today


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Shareholders or policyholders. Who matters most? Take this quiz:
The Board of Directors of my insurance company has a lawful duty to protect:
a. the financial interests of the policyholders.
b. the financial interest of the stockholders.
c. both of the above.
d. none of the above.
The answer is (b). The Board of Directors of an insurance company's first (or fiduciary) duty is to the shareholders that elected them.
This means that the financial interests of the shareholders come before those of the insured policyholder when that corporation is an insurance provider. Profits come to a business from paying out less than what they take in. Shareholders demand this in return for their investment. Insurance companies comply. Know this as you shop.
The National Law Review has published a list of the "eleven worst insurance companies" and I encourage you to read it. Before you take too much comfort in finding that your home insurance provider did not make the list, you should consider that many that made the list are providers of health insurance. The factors that were used for the home and business insurers that made the list, however, are not unique to them but are commonly shared among smaller companies that would have at least made "dishonorable mention" if the list did not include other types of insurers.
What this list should teach those of us who buy insurance is the need for us to carefully select an insurance provider based on something other than cute or funny television commercials. Sweet talking lizards that collect your insurance premium can quickly become vicious and vexatious crocodiles defending the company against your valid claim. If you can learn this before you become vulnerable because of catastrophic loss, the better off you will be.
The Missouri Department of Insurance publishes a complaint index to help Missouri consumers determine how likely they may find displeasure with an insurance company's claim handling process. Considering how few unsatisfied policyholders will go through the red tape to file a complaint with the State government, when an insurance company exceeds the normal rate of complaints under such circumstances – it really says something.
Caveat emptor.


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Another day, another thread, and we still don't know who'll be joining T-Pain Wood in the Cubs' organization this summer. Maybe it will be these two:
Anywho, talk amongst yourself, I'm off to gorge myself at a holiday party and answer the "wow, having a birthday on Christmas must really suck, huh?" question approximately 432 times.


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The internet has recently seen a resurgence in the yellow journalism of the 1890's. Just like the newspaper wars between Joseph Pulitzer's New York World and William Randolph Hearst's New York Journal, news sites today are using scare headlines and misleading stores to attract viewers.
The More Things Change…
Presidential elections and false news on Facebook are the tip of a much larger problem with the swamp of content available on the internet. With so many websites that automatically disseminate content without vetting the information, any organization can flood the net with the publication of highly inflammatory click bait.
… the More they Stay the Same.
The Guardian, an UK based publishing firm is evolving the tradition of yellow journalism, setting their techno-phobic sights on 3D printing.
Just as it has been reported in the past that a fire was NOT caused by a 3D printer, the Guardian has published a piece of technically ignorant click bait about 3D printing.
"You Furnish the Pictures and I'll Furnish the War "
3D printed guns are hot button topic in 3D printing, but as I found they are all sound and no furry. The Guardian published an article recently with the sensationalist headline "Gold Coast {Australia} drug raids uncover 3D-printed submachine guns"
The leading picture (above) supposedly shows a 3D printed submachine gun handled by a Australian police officer.
Well the 3D printing community was up in arms, spreading this story around. The mouthpieces of the Guardian were spreading the story like wildfire as well.
The Truth Hurts
In fact the Guardian is guilty as the false news on Facebook of complete and total lies.
The gun show in the picture has no 3D printed parts at all.
In fact the gun pictured is called a Luty, a popular .32 / .380 caliber homemade submachine gun, made with a drill press and tubular metal stock that you can find in industrial stores.
The Luty has shown up on the streets of Western Australia, a country with strict gun control measures.
At this recent drug raid in Australia, the police found 4 of these all metal Luty's, along with a 3D printer and a drill press.
Nowhere in the article does it say that an actual, firing 3D printed gun was produced.
Ongoing Fear mongering
Australian police seem to recognize what little risk 3D printed guns pose. Recently the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission released a report stating "
The ACIC and other law enforcement agencies have assessed the current threat of 3D printing of firearms as low."
They went further in stating
"Since instructions to produce a 3D printed firearm were published online, the ACIC has identified only three attempts to manufacture such firearms in Australia. Of those identified, none were functioning when detected by police.
This is in contrast to the Hearld Sun, which published their own ignorant article with the headline "Future Melbourne: Criminals could use 3D printers to create bombs, guns". They even cited the same ACIC report, but glossed over how low the threat from 3D printed guns are.
UPDATE: 26 November 2016
A followup article from 3DPI actually contacted Detective Superintendent Jon Wacker of the Drug and Serious Crime Group in Queensland, Australia to confirm what everyone in the 3D printing community knows.
According to 3DPI,
There is nothing in any media reports to suggest that any parts were made, I see those list of questions there you've asked, nothing would suggest that any part of that machine gun was made on a 3D printer.
During a raid as part of Operation Oscar Quantum, targeting the illicit manufacture and trade of amphetamines, an XYZ Da Vinci 3D printer was also found. "We had the guns out for display and in the media release I did say what we'd also located a 3D printer and with that poetic license has taken over," said DS Wacker.
It is clear that even the Queensland Police do not think that a 3D printed gun was produced.
Click Bait Cures
With this surge in false news sites and 3D printer phobia, what can we as a 3D printing community do when we see such ignorant clickbait?
- Breath. Don't click anything; don't have an outburst, just breath.
2. Breath some more. Keep away from clicking or replying.
3. Don't comment, retweet or forward to your social groups. This encourages virality, which benefits the publisher.
4. Practice your critical observation and reading skills. Headlines are written to grab your attention, but the content (or lack of it) tells you the whole story.
5. Realize that these publishing organizations receive money every time you click on their links. By not clicking, you are financially boycotting them.
6. Add these click bait sites to your blocked website black list.
7. Inform yourself about false news sites and how they spread.
For resources on false news, visit


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YouVersion's simple mission remains the same: To make it as easy as possible for people to engage with the Bible and to connect with each other, no matter where they live or what language they prefer. We're thankful to team up with people around the globe who share this goal.
Publishers. Through partnerships with key Bible publishers, YouVersion is thrilled to announce the immediate availability of these great Bibles in Korean:
- 새번역 Revised New Korean Version (RNKSV) from the Korean Bible Society.
- 개역한글 Korean Revised Version (KRV)—a favorite version for Korean readers for years—from the Korean Bible Society.
- 현대인의 성경 Korean Living Bible (KLB) from Biblica.
Volunteers. The YouVersion community is literally worldwide, made possible only by volunteers who graciously offer their time and talents, whether from the United States, South Korea, Canada… or wherever you are. Volunteers are ordinary people—people just like you—who want to help others experience God's Word in the same personal, meaningful ways that they have themselves. And it's easier than you may think; if you can help us translate new features and services—whether into Korean or other languages—you can make a difference. Please get in touch with us through our volunteer sign-up form and let us know how you can help.
Volunteering with YouVersion offers you the unique opportunity to impact millions of other people with the story of God's love. Read what just a few of our amazing Korean language volunteers have to say about their experiences working on the Bible App™:
"As I had been richly blessed by the Words of God and the free Bible App from YouVersion, I felt that I should let those blessings flow to others. I wanted to practice the principle of 'Freely you have received, freely give,' so I decided to volunteer using the natural talent the Lord freely gave me—my mother tongue! I was enjoying working on the Korean project so much that eventually I realized I was no longer giving freely: the Lord has blessed me back much more in getting to be a part of the YouVersion team, with such great people!"
—Ingu in Gilbert, Arizona, USA
"The Bible App from YouVersion was the first Bible app I put on my iPad. I found the Korean version wasn't perfect. I also noticed that YouVersion was asking for volunteers to help translate it better. I used to work developing software, and I had been pursuing the Words of God during the last twenty years in church in Korea and in Canada, so when I realized I could probably help with the Bible App, I decided to volunteer. What we're doing together now is so much more than just translating—we're answering God's calling to expand His church."
—Jason P. (박영호) in Mississauga, Ontario, Canada
"I am grateful and honored to have the opportunity to get to work together with many other Christians on the Bible App—most of whom I have never met. The intentions we share, together with the strong (yet humble) leadership from YouVersion, makes our important work run smoothly. I truly believe that the Bible App from YouVersion is the best app, both in functionality and content (of course!). I am so happy to be able to tell my children that I got to participate in this great ministry, no matter how small a part I may get to play."
—Sung (성희) in Denver, Colorado, USA
This post is also available in: Korean


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Dojo etiquette and conduct.
A good understanding of all the rules of the dojo.
A demonstration of basic striking combinations on pads, integrating hands, legs and other strikes
A demonstration of the student holding hook & jab pads and calling combinations for an experienced striker.
Breaking a front double lapel grab and head butt.
Hip/neck throws left & right handed with ground locks, all different striking entries (4).
elbow lock
chicken wing arm lock
crossover arm break
cork-screw arm lock
A fig 4 arm lock and take down.
a) standard b) compressed c) turning d)pulling
A cupping wrist lock from a wrist grab (left and right).
A reverse cupping wrist lock.
Defences against a kick to the head whilst on the ground, from both sides of the body (2).
Defence against a stamping attack to the head whilst on the ground (2).
A Single leg takedown and ankle lock.
A Single leg takedown, ankle lock and turn.
Ground strangles- escapes from each of the following:
between the legs
astride the body
pinning the shoulders
along both sides of the body
seated rear
Breaking a back strangle.
a) utilising a hip throw
b) joint lock version (left and right)
Groundwork, with a demonstration of strikes that can be applied
Side position (chest hold) – Mune gatame
Entangled armlock – Ude garami
Reverse entangled armlock – Ude garami
Side four quarters hold – Yoko shiho gatame
Counters to holds


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Accident or Israeli sabotage? A mysterious incident in the early hours of Thursday, July 2, badly damaged a building at Iran's Natanz nuclear complex and sparked speculation over the cause.
The incident came at the end of a week marked by two explosions in Tehran, including one near a military site. Officials said the blasts were accidents, but many Iranians suspected covert Israeli operations were responsible.
Israel and the United States accuse their arch foe Iran of trying to build an atomic bomb — a charge the Islamic Republic has always denied.
AFP takes stock of what we know so far about the Natanz incident.
What kind of building?
Iran's atomic energy agency first reported that an "accident" had damaged warehouses under construction at the Natanz site, some 250 kilometres (150 miles) south of Tehran, in a confusing statement on the morning after the incident.
There were no casualties, "no nuclear material (on site) and no potential of pollution," the agency's spokesman Behrouz Kamalvandi told state television.
The organisation released a photo of a damaged building: a long, one-storey brick structure with few openings, part of an exterior wall blackened by fire, a collapsed section of roof and doors that appeared to have been blown outwards.
State TV showed several images of the building's exterior, but none of the inside.
On Sunday evening, Kamalvandi acknowledged to the IRNA state news agency that the incident had caused "significant financial damage", without elaborating.
But he said the damaged building had been designed to produce "advanced centrifuges", hinting that their assembly had begun prior to the "accident".
What is the Natanz nuclear complex?
The complex is central to Iran's nuclear programme and is kept under very tight security.
Under the terms of its 2015 nuclear accord with world powers, Tehran had agreed to cap its enrichment of uranium — measured by the presence of fissile isotope Uranium-235 — to 3.67 percent.
It also limited the number of so called first-generation enrichment centrifuges to 5,060.
But a year after Washington unilaterally abandoned the pact and reimposed crushing sanctions, Iran began progressively stepping away from its commitments.
Since mid-2019 it has enriched uranium to 4.5 percent — reactor-grade but still far from the 90 percent required for military use.
Iran has also announced that it is working on developing more efficient centrifuges, without limits.
Accident or sabotage?
On Friday, Iran's Supreme National Security Council announced that the "cause of the accident" at Natanz had been "accurately determined".
But it declined to release details, citing security reasons.
On the evening of July 2, IRNA published an editorial warning Iran's arch-foes against hostile actions, saying unnamed Israeli social media accounts had claimed the Jewish state was behind the incident.
The editorial warned Israel and the US against any attack on Iran's "security" and "interests".
A Twitter account linked to an Israeli analyst had claimed in Arabic on July 1 that Israel had attacked an Iranian uranium enrichment plant.
The BBC's Persian service, which Iranian authorities consider hostile, said it received a statement "hours before" the incident from a group called the "Homeland Cheetahs" who claimed responsibility.
They claimed to be "dissidents present in Iran's security apparatus" and said the location was targeted as it was not "underground" and that therefore the alleged attack could not be denied.
Iran's civil defence chief, Brigadier General Gholam Reza Jalali, told state TV on Thursday night that any proven cyberattack against Iran would elicit "a response".
Israel's Defence Minister and Alternate Prime Minister Benny Gantz stayed ambiguous on the events.
"Iran is aiming for nuclear [weapons], we can't let it get there," he said Sunday.
He however added that "not every event taking place in Iran is necessarily connected to us".


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These days, homeowners look for attic insulation contractors and manufacturers as they can find companies of good reputation that provide attic insulation. They can have your house in an attic room with insulation material that can protect your interior with protection from cold weather and/or high temperatures. Not only that, these insulation products can also bring down your home's heating costs as they can also save you up to 80% on your energy bills.
The advantage of attic insulation is that it is simple to install, requires minimal maintenance, and offers a wide exposure to the weather. This means that your basement, garages, and attic rooms are completely safe from floods, fires, sun, and even hail.
It is not a question of whether or not your entire house is insulated, but a question of how you can make it easier to insulate your home's basement, garages, and attic. Many homeowners choose to go in for a double glazing system in their basement and attic, since this will save them a great deal of money in heating bills.
People who are aware of their options when it comes to attic insulation tend to go in for a retrofit, which is when you start to update the insulation system in the attic room as you would have done it to a part of the house. You can have it done by a professional company, and they will install the retrofit insulation so that you can save on your energy bills.
It is very important to go in for a double glazing, since if you don't, your house will probably get damaged and will not have the capacity to be able to save you energy bills. The most effective way to save on your heating bills is to have a double glazing system installed.
Now, even though attic insulation is effective insulation, it doesn't mean that you can have a bright sunny day and be comfortable. This is why you have to find an insulation system that is designed to protect the room from the cold, while at the same time insulating it.
The insulation that is used for attic insulation is called laminating, and it is basically a manufactured form of the kind of insulation that is used in the interior of the house. They use specialized products that are called special kinds of insulation.
Laminating works in that it does not stop heat transfer because it is also able to reduce the movement of cold air. This is due to the fact that the insulation is a polyurethane (rubber) based product, so it can still perform heat transfer while retaining the heat trapped inside.
While there are several companies that manufacture laminating, you can also find companies that specialize in making laminating products. However, the main advantage that laminating gives is that it is much cheaper than other insulation products, since it is much easier to put up and requires less maintenance.
The companies that supply attic insulation are also able to help you save on your energy bills by being able to get reduced prices for their services. This means that you can save up to 80% on your energy bills, especially if you are in need of insulation in your garage or attic.
There are many attic insulation companies that are ready to provide you with proper insulation, whether it is the right kind of insulation or a double-glazing system. In short, it is very important to go in for insulation that you can use and save you a lot of money, since insulation is one of the ways to save energy bills.


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UPDATE: When Mormon Stories took this episode down, our site experienced a spike in traffic which caused our website to crash. The only solution was to remove the file. We will re-release the episode in three smaller parts later today.
Do facts matter? Is validation possible when faith conflicts with reason? Is Jeremy Runnells really the leader of the Anti-Mormon religion? What about the Book of Abraham? Book of Mormon Geography? The role of prophets? The Proclamation on the Family? So many tits and tats, but can't believers and non-believers just get along? Can't we all be friends?
Glenn and John Hamer join Lindsay Hansen Park and John Dehlin for an Infants on Mormon Stories smackdown of a recorded conversation between Trevor (a doubting Mormon) and an LDS General Authority and an LDS church historian as they attempt to address Trevor's mounting concerns with Mormon history and doctrine.
Podcast (politics): Play in new window | Download
Subscribe: Google Podcasts | RSS


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If a church sincerely and wholeheartedly loves God, loves people, and makes disciples as they are going, then that church will become a great church. But we must remember "the church" is the people, not the organization or the building. The organization reflects the people. So the real point is that individual people must wholeheartedly love God, love people, and make disciples, if there church is going to become a great church.
A great church that is growing, effectively making disciples, seeing God transform lives, and making an impact that will last into eternity is the way it is because individual Christ-followers make choices to obey, sacrifice, and surrender to God. The same is also true of a boring church, an ineffective church, a conflicted church, and a non-growing church. The organization is what it is due to the people who make up the organization. Your church is a reflection of you. Hard words for some people and churches? Maybe, but its absolutely true just the same.
Just imagine what Jesus would really say and do if He attended your church. Would Jesus be ok with the commitment he witnessed? What about the sincere heartfelt prayers, the unity, the willingness to stretch out of your comfort zone, the disciple-making efforts, the faith, the efforts to reach the un-churched or de-churched, the authentic worship, the surrender, or the sacrifice? Would He commend you for your heart, love, and obedience? Would He challenge your fear and lack of faith?
Would He say you are lukewarm and spit you out of his mouth? Would He challenge you to re-dream and surrender to His purposes? Would He overturn a few tables and pews and clear the place out with His rebuke? Would He thank you for your surrender, sacrifice, and selflessness as He recounted all the lives that have been changed as He has used you to carry out His ministry in and through you?
If we are really honest, few of us are ready to face Jesus' evaluation of our church. And since "our church is a reflection of us", few of us are prepared to face Jesus' evaluation of our personal efforts at Christ-following. If an article like this makes you feel uncomfortable, just imagine how you would feel having your church being evaluated by Jesus!
We tend to ask the wrong questions: Am I comfortable? Does it meet my needs? Am I being noticed enough? Are my opinions being heard? Does it cost me any money? Does in require any time from me? Asking the wrong questions simply reinforces wrong behaviors and attitudes that do not honor God.
However, if you ask yourself the right questions: What would Jesus say, or think, or do? Is my attitude a positive example of my relationship with Christ? Am I being a good steward of all God has entrusted to me? Is my heart right, broken, yielded, and surrendered? Is there any area of hidden sin in my life? If we ask the right questions wrong behaviors and attitudes will be challenged and God honoring behaviors and attitudes will be reinforced.
Biblically speaking, we all know Christ is the Head of the Church. Then, why do we (or let others) run the church like we are the ones in charge? I just wonder what Jesus would say about that?


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I am a Christian wife and homeschooling mother. I will post family friendly articles... the subjects will include family, children, photos, tea, gardening, homeschooling, recipes, thought-provoking ideas, nature.... and more.
Sunday, March 1, 2015
There's No Place Like Home........
Home Is Where The Heart Is..........
Turn Your Heart Toward Home.....
Love Begins At Home.....
Home Sweet home.....
and more.... but what does Home really mean?
Some definitions say that home is one's residence; a dwelling place with one's family; the heart of something; a familiar and usual setting..... and more.
We know home is special.... but why? What makes home.... home? Is it just that building we live in? Well, that is "home", but what makes it special.. what makes it important?
It seems that the people make the home... Home is where we can be ourselves... where we feel comfortable. Hopefully, home is where we feel loved and respected.
Home can be just a name for the place we live... or it can mean so much more.... Hopefully, it is the place we like to return to... the place where we feel safe.... the place we can be built up when we are "down".... the place we belong.
Hopefully, we are able to experience that without taking it too far. We want to maintain respect for others... and not just selfishly expect it. We love to have others care about us... maybe asking how we slept... or how work was... did we have a good day? How nice to have someone care about us.
Do we take? or do we give? Do we make home a place to be cherished.... a place to be remembered... a place of hope and love?
How can we build a home that God approves? Not the house, but the home. Do we live for God... IN our home? Do we treat our family....as God SAYS to? Do we love and forgive and build up? We can make such an impact with our families... what we do now... today... will be remembered. No, we aren't perfect.... we will get rushed and irritated... Do we confess sin and ask for forgiveness? Do we apologize? Do we make needed changes?
Do we make our HOMES important?.... or do we make our blogs ABOUT home important... or the stories we tell others ABOUT home important? What will our families remember about home? That we were too busy for them.... or that we loved them and made time for them?
I want to honor God in my home, with my family. I want them to KNOW I love them... and respect them... and that they can come to me. I want them to remember home as a place where they are loved. I want them to see that I love God enough to learn the lessons He sends to me... in humbleness. I want them to remember my kindness to them.... my patience... my cheerfulness.
I want them to look back fondly on these years in our home... and I assume you do also. What are we doing right now, TODAY, to make that happen? Not as a one time special time... but as a consistent ministry to our family. Loving my family is worth the work... and I want to be faithful to do it every day. :) I hope you do also. Thank you for joining me today.
Shared on:
Wednesday Prayer Girls
Simple Saturday
TGI Saturday
Saturday Soiree
Grace and Truth
City of Links
The Charm of Home
Thank Goodness It's Thursday
Foodie Friday and Everything Else
Hearts For Home
Thought Provoking Thursday
On Display Thursday
Share Your Style
Thriving On Thursday
Work In Progress
Paula's No Rules Weekend Party
13 comments:
YES, I surely want home to be a place my husband and son long to be...a soft place for them to fall and be themselves. It is so true that we, as mothers, set the pace and attitudes of our homes. God help me to be faithful to Him in these areas! Thank you so much for this wonderful post. :) Praying for you, dear friend.ReplyDeleteReplies
Thank you for such a sweet comment. Setting the pace/attitudes takes pretty constant attention to it.... an ongoing thing, but so very important. Thank you for visiting. :)Delete
Awwww love this!ReplyDeleteReplies
That's sweet.... thank you! :)Delete
Ah , this is really a beautiful and wise blog! Its so true: Loving my family is worth the work!ReplyDeleteReplies
What a nice comment.... and yes, loving our families IS so worth the work... even though it can be so hard, tiring and discouraging in the day to day. Thank you for visiting. :)Delete
What a lovely post, thank you for sharing your wisdom at Good Morning Mondays. BlessingsReplyDelete
Lovely post :) I was watching a show the other day that brought this up, and it said that home is where the people you love are, which is something I definitely agree with.ReplyDelete
- Linking over from weekend blog partyReplies
Thank you.... so much of our lives can be out away from home... we sure don't want to forget this important place....and the people. :)Delete
My dear friend, this was such a beautiful and precious post! My heart was richly blessed. Thank you so much for sharing with ROI. Hugs and blessings to you!ReplyDeleteReplies
Thank you... what a sweet comment. :)Delete
So much food for thought! I constantly strive to make my home a warm, loving space for friends and family. Thanks so much for sharing at Talented Tuesdays!ReplyDeleteReplies
I do too... there are so many great ways to do that... :) Thank you for visiting.Delete


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Hmm, shortbread cookies. I've never really been a huge fan of them; I always found them a little bland and boring in the grand scheme of the delicious cookie world. My sister Caroline has been obsessed with the shortbread cookies at a bakery in Pt. Reyes since before I can even remember. I would usually opt for a scone or lemon bar when we visited, while she'd sometimes buy out the entire stock of shortbreads for the day. My mom found this recipe from a friend at work, and I was of course speculative about them due to my aversion to boring cookies. She raved about them, so I gave them a try when my mom made them…and oh man, they were so good. The perfect texture, not crunchy or crumbly…just right. I think it truly helped that she used top-notch ingredients. By using Plugrá European style butter and vanilla bean paste instead of just extract, they were completely delicious. Not in anyway bland or boring. The recipe comes from the November 2011 issue of Fine Cooking magazine, and I decided to add in some lime zest to give them a summer kick. You can use lemon or orange zest instead if you're feeling a different citrus, or just leave it out and have straight vanilla cookies.
Measure out the flour, cornstarch and salt into a medium bowl and mix together with a whisk. In the bowl of a stand mixer, cream together the butter, sugar, vanilla and zest on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy.