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In the News
Tim Eyman's latest initiative, I-1366, seeks to put in place a 2/3 vote requirement for legislators to raise taxes. If that stirs up feelings of déjà vu, it should. Washington voters have enacted 2/3 rules five separate times. The last two 2/3 initiatives, in 2010 and 2012, both passed with 64% of the vote.
Each time, Democratic lawmakers either fought the 2/3 rule in court or repealed the initiatives after two years. After declining several times to rule on the matter, in 2013 the state Supreme Court ruled that 2/3 requirements for legislative tax increases violate the state constitution.
New way to attack the question
The court's ruling means the only way to enact a 2/3 rule is through a constitutional amendment. In Washington, those can only originate from the Legislature, not a ballot measure, and the legislative vote must be by 2/3 in each chamber. Democratic legislators would never let a constitutional amendment on the 2/3 rule advance.
I-1366 utilizes a novel approach to force action on a constitutional amendment. If passed, the initiative would cut the state sales tax (currently at 6.5 cents per dollar) by a penny if legislators do not send a 2/3 amendment to the voters.
From a legal perspective, I-1366 may not fly, and it would no doubt be immediately challenged in court (and is, in fact, being challenged already). It is one more opportunity for Washington voters to express their preference for 2/3 rules, which is always tricky for Democratic legislators from swing districts to navigate.
History of voter-enacted 2/3 rules
|Yes vote
|Ref. 49
A broad group of stakeholders – business groups, labor unions, tribes, environmentalists – joined an effort, at Gov. Jay Inslee's behest, to help update the state's water quality standards. Washington's standards are under the gun by the federal Environmental Protection Agency, and without an update acceptable to the EPA, the agency might change Washington's standards unilaterally.
Businesses and cities are greatly concerned that standards set too high would be unachievable and quite expensive. Jobs would be lost, they say, and water rates would skyrocket.
As part of the overall effort, Inslee called for a bill targeting "non-point" sources of toxins that make their way into water supplies. A compromise bill passed the House in March. In the Senate, both the environment and budget committees gave it "do pass" recommendations, but amid the negotiations and wrangling over the state budget in special session, the toxins bill was not brought to a vote in the Senate.
Inslee throws a monkeywrench
Many of the stakeholders advising Inslee on water quality assumed work on the water standards would continue and legislators could take another stab at passing the toxins bill next year. Instead, Inslee announced last week that without a toxins bill, he's essentially scrapping the work already completed on water quality. The Spokesman-Review editorialized:
Last summer, Gov. Jay Inslee released a pragmatic plan to update the state's clean-water standards. Friday, he walked away from the solution that was three years in the making and involved extensive collaboration among municipal, industrial and environmental stakeholders.
He not only scrapped the state's best shot at cleaning up waterways, he gave many people reason to utter "never again" to invitations from government to help solve a problem.
The move surprised many. It also has some speculating that it may be a way for Inslee to get what he wants – very high water quality rules – without taking the blame for those rules and the costs that would result.
If the EPA intervened and set Washington's standards to Oregon's level – and the EPA Region 10 office has already indicated that's the end result it wants to see – Inslee could conceivably say that it's those darn legislators fault, not his. His tribal and environmental allies would score it as a victory. As for business, labor, and municipal interests, they may have a different take on that narrative.
For all the talk about bold proposals in Olympia this year, legislators didn't pass any new general taxes or initiate big programs. Democrats have been happy to chalk that up to Republican control of the state Senate (and certainly that's a big factor), but on many of the most controversial bills, it was never clear the 51 House Democrats could muster 50 votes for passage.
The House, run by Speaker Frank Chopp, proposed a budget with $1.5 billion in new taxes, but never actually voted to pass those new taxes. Under their proposal, the $1.5 billion was supposed to come from a tax on capital gains income and by making permanent a temporary B&O surcharge that expired in 2013.
House Democrats didn't vote on either of those ideas. Nor did they take up Gov. Jay Inslee's cap-and-trade proposal.
Strange messaging
Oddly enough, Democrats seemed quick to embrace the message that they were just trying to avoid exposing members to an unpopular vote, since Senate Republicans were unlikely to approve these taxes anyway. It's odd because most of the time, politicians try to avoid looking like they're engaging in feckless political maneuvering instead of standing on principle.
The message was no doubt preferable, though, to admitting House Democrats didn't have the votes to pass the new taxes that their base supports.
It's clear that with narrow partisan advantage, Speaker Chopp is operating in a very different environment from his post-2006 high water mark. If Republican Teri Hickel defeats appointed Rep. Carol Gregory in this fall's 30th District special election, Chopp's caucus will be down to a 50-48 advantage. He'd need an awful lot of caucus unity to pass anything on the liberal wishlist in 2016.
When Gov. Jay Inslee signed the new state transportation package into law last week, most assumed it meant an end to the controversy over a governor-imposed low-carbon fuel standard (LCFS). The package includes a "poison pill" insisted on by Senate Republicans that if Inslee signs an executive order on LCFS, certain transit and multi-modal transportation funding will be transferred to highway projects.
Most thought the poison pill meant the end of Inslee's ambition to sidestep the Legislature and put an LCFS in place on his own. Now, the governor's spokesman is putting that assumption in doubt.
Jim Brunner of the Seattle Times broke the story on Saturday:
Despite the poison-pill regulation, Inslee's office has signaled he is still considering moving ahead on a low-carbon fuel standard. While that would trigger a shift in transit money, Inslee and his allies could gamble on a fight to restore the funding in a subsequent legislative session.
Publicola reported Monday that Inslee spokesman David Postman said the governor is "meeting with stakeholders" to discuss putting an LCFS in place despite opposition and the poison pill. That would imperil the spending covered by the poison pill provision, but Inslee could gamble that the Legislature next year will add new funding for the cut programs.
Move would be a risk
It's unclear, though, what motivation legislative Republicans would have to restore the funding. Critics, including many legislative Republicans, believe an LCFS would raise the price of gas without providing any appreciable environmental benefit.
More to the point, Inslee putting an LCFS in place after agreeing to the poison pill provision could severely damage any comity between Inslee and legislative Republicans. They pursued the provision as an insurance measure against an executive order, one many Republicans needed to feel comfortable voting yes on the transportation package.
Allies are nervous
The idea that Inslee might sign an LCFS order anyway and invoke the poison pill provision is making some allies nervous. Saying the transportation package included "historic investments" in "safe streets, new sidewalks and bike pathways," the policy director of Washington Bikes told Publicola, "Now those investments are in jeopardy because of potential Governor action on a low carbon fuel standard."
The Cascade Bicycle Club, a major presence in Seattle politics, told its members in an e-mail Tuesday, "While we applaud the governor's commitment to combating climate change, it should not come at the cost of all of the funding for bicycling he and the legislature just approved."
If Inslee backs off his LCFS threat, a ballot initiative remains a possibility for supporters.
After more than two years of negotiations, the Democrat-led House and Republican-led Senate reached agreement on a new transportation package this month. Business and labor leaders strongly backed the package, which will eventually raise gas taxes by 11.9 cents a gallon.
Like all state transportation packages, the projects are spread around to attract more legislative votes. Most agree, though, that the projects funded will help the economy and shorten commutes. They include:
- Finishing the North Spokane Corridor to I-90
- Easing traffic backups at Joint Base Lewis-McChord
- Connecting the Port of Tacoma to SR 167
- Improving I-405
- Finishing the 520 bridge project on the Seattle side
Package prevents exec. order on LCFS
One of the most contentious parts of the package for House Democrats was the "poison pill" insisted on by Senate Republicans that prevents Gov. Jay Inslee from instituting a low-carbon fuel standard (LCFS) by executive order. Inslee made no secret that he wanted an LCFS. Opponents to the idea say LCFS programs are environmentally ineffective and raise gas prices with little to show in benefits.
While the provision prevents singular action by Inslee, the Legislature could still pass an LCFS, though in its current makeup that is a remote possibility. But in a state with direct democracy via initiatives, the voters can pass any law themselves, same as the Legislature.
Will supporters try an initiative?
That has some wondering if supporters will try to place an LCFS initiative on the ballot. Already, an environmental group is trying to place a revenue-neutral carbon tax on the ballot next year. In the past, environmental initiatives have done well on the ballot, including the anti-nuclear waste I-297 (which was thrown out by the courts) in 2004 and 2006's renewable energy initiative, I-937.
Of course, those initiatives weren't perceived to have a direct, immediate cost to consumers. Opponents of an LCFS would be sure Washington voters knew an LCFS program would cost them money. That factor could have LCFS supporters wondering if a ballot initiative is such a good idea.


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The University of South Alabama and its police chief want a judge to dismiss a lawsuit filed by the parents of a nude student who was shot to death by a campus police officer, the Associated Press reports. Both the school and university police chief Zeke Aull argued in court documents that they are immune from being sued under state law in the October death of freshman Gil Collar, 18, of Wetumpka. His parents filed the suit over the killing last month. They are seeking an unspecified amount of money and a court order requiring the school to arm its officers with stun guns. Aside from arguing he can't be held liable for Collar's death, Aull also asked a judge to refuse the demand to arm all school officers with the weapons, which are used to shock suspects into submission…
Ala. college asks court to toss suit over shooting
By eCampus News staff and wire reports
January 15th, 2013

subset: commoncrawl


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Microsoft (MSFT) will announce its Hail Mary attempt to stave off a Google (GOOG) search monopoly this morning, TechCrunch reports. This is the "disruptive" development Microsoft's Kevin Johnson alluded to last week. It is also a plan Microsoft briefly discussed a couple of years ago (to applause, at least from this analyst).
First, we think this is a smart idea. It's a natural market response to a sector in which one player has suddenly absconded with absolutely fantastic profits (and profit margins), leaving all other competitors flopping in the dust. We think Kevin Johnson was right to describe it as "disruptive," and we're sorry we needled him for that. (Of course, we would have inserted the word "potentially"--see below.)
Second, Microsoft appears to have executed the plan intelligently: 18 high-profit verticals in which searchers get cash back if they buy something from participating merchants.
This announcement will likely create uncertainty in the industry, and we expect Google investors will worry about it for a while (needlessly, in our opinion). At first blush, the plan also sounds as though it will turn the industry on its head, forcing Google to implement a similar plan or go bust. So why won't it?
Three reasons:
* Microsoft will not likely offer enough "cash back" on each purchase to make the service worth using for most users. The search business is wildly and fantastically profitable in aggregate, but it is composed of billions of small-value revenue events. 1 million $1 clicks generate $1 million of revenue for Google, but even if Microsoft gives 50% cash back on each click, that's only 50 cents per user per transaction. If you're buying a $5 item, 50 cents is a nice refund, but if you're buying, say, a $25 item, it's chump change. Folks who clip coupons in the real world will be very excited about Live Search Cash Back and will likely use it religiously. But there's a reason coupons, Discovery cards, etc. haven't taken over the world.
* The program only covers "participating" retailers and "participating" products, at least initially. Although the initial names involved are impressive, right away you have concerns about breadth of coverage and objectivity. If the coverage is super-broad (including Amazon, eBay, and all the online biggies), the objectivity will be less of an issue. But, at least initially, a significant percentage of users will assume they are either seeing only a small portion of the available choices or are getting screwed. Google has built its franchise on comprehensiveness and objectivity, and we suspect that its initial response will be to argue that this is really what consumers want. And unless Microsoft is paying a huge amount of cash back, they're right.
* If necessary, Google can always respond with a similar plan--and its economics will always be far better than Microsoft. If Google really starts to lose share to this plan (which we don't think it will), it will likely launch a similar plan for certain searches. Because Google makes more per search, it will be able to offer more cash back, and it will be able to point out that users don't have to change habits. Google could even offer a hybrid--organic search and special cash-back offers. A response might eat into Google's margins (which would hit the stock temporarily), but it wouldn't upend the industry. And, in our opinion, it wouldn't take long for Google to starve Microsoft out.
Get the latest Google stock price here.


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SAP still trying to bring cloud computing down to earth
Business ByDesign, SAP's on-demand ERP, didn't get too much play at Sapphire this year. With the product still under construction, there wasn't too much to announce.
The big problem seems to be delivering on-demand software in a "profitable" way. This InformationWeek article offers a great behind the scenes look at what's going on with Business ByDesign, including what types of "major reconstructive surgery," it may need before it can be profitable enough to make generally available.
Cloud computing is the "OctoMom" of the technology news industry. And it's tempting to think that because SAP doesn't have an on-demand ERP in the market, it's, as this Reuters article states, "being left behind" as other vendors sell the software.
But just because Business ByDesign isn't on the market yet, does it mean SAP's behind in cloud computing?
I spoke with many customers at Sapphire about what types of projects they're working on this year, and what their strategies are for the future. Few mentioned any cloud-based projects.
Some still weren't exactly sure what is indeed meant by the term "the cloud."
In turn, SAP certainly wasn't trying to hide Business ByDesign, or the company's on-demand efforts — which include delivering on-demand expense management and human capital management "soon." Apotheker pointed out that SAP sells CRM, procurement and sourcing and SAP BusinessObjects software on demand.
CEO Leo Apotheker included, albeit briefly, Business ByDesign in his keynote and invited attendees to demo it themselves to "kill a rumor" at one of the booths on the show floor. It's something analyst Joshua Greenbaum did and said in his blog it "looked and acted pretty robust."
And Apotheker certainly didn't discount "the cloud" as a very important delivery model. In fact, most of his keynote focused on how SAP would make its software easier to deploy, lowering the total cost of ownership for its customers.
"I firmly believe that cloud computing is coming down to earth," Apotheker said in his keynote. "Private clouds are becoming a totally feasible possibility."
What do you think?


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The One Called Mercy Ch. 04byRedHairedandFriendly©
The silence of the room held the secrets that each occupant was holding close to their chests. Morgan Benedict was no different, nor did he believe the young woman sitting across from him was either. Mercy Lewis, though a guest in his home under unique circumstances, was still after all human and that meant that she had her personal demons and what those were were none of his concern. What did concern him was her current health and well-being after all her former Master, Sir Samuel Reuben had left her deeded to Morgan in lieu of a cash settlement.
Morgan cleared his throat and tapped the top of the parchment in which Reuben had transcribed the offer. "And you were allowed to read this?" he asked the woman who had merely offered him the letter and took the seat he'd pointed out to her.
"Yes, Sir."
"And you are in agreement to the terms and willing to abide by those I set forth?"
"I am," Mercy answered. She knew the contents of the letter. Samuel Reuben, her former Master, had become buried in a mountain of debt and one of those debtors happened to be Lord Morgan Benedict. Samuel had called Mercy into his study and explained that he would no longer be able to provide for her, but if she were willing he was sure that Lord Benedict would take her in. When she voiced her doubt, he explained the circumstances in which she go to him. She would fulfill whatever role he needed, including and not limited to all things sexual and domestic. "So I am to be his slave?" she had asked him. His reply had been a simple yes, but she could tell him "no" and be on her way.
Mercy had seen no other option for herself. She had lived the life as a companion to men since her 18th birthday when her father took it upon himself to sell her virginity and her person to a local farmer. She became his bed-mate, as well as the mother to his children. He later sold her when an offer that was too lucrative to pass up was placed before him. With that Master she was taken to sea. The captain of the ship used her, not only for his own enjoyment, but would often pass her to his men. Samuel had been next, having purchased her from the auction block.
Over the course of her twenty-six years, Mercy had called four different men Master, five if one counted her father, but blessedly he never exerted his lust upon her. Morgan Benedict was not a stranger to her and in truth she was glad to have found protection under his roof.
"Mercy, it says here that you were given the option to remain free and not tethered to me because of Reuben's debt. Why have you chosen to remain a servant to man's sexual urges?" Morgan was asking.
She tilted her head to one side and looked to be considering his question, but in fact she was curious to his desire or lack of desire to keep her. Unable to read his expression, Mercy cleared her throat and began to explain her reasoning behind paying off Reuben's debt. "Lord Benedict, you are not a stranger to me, for in fact you and Sir Samuel have used me simultaneously during one of his parties."
Morgan lifted a brow, inclined his head and acknowledged the truth behind her words.
"I recall the pleasure you gave and the gentle, yet firmness of your hand. I do not know how much of my past you are aware of, but I have never been a free woman. Not really. Upon my 18th birthday, my father sold me to a local farmer, who later sold me to another man, and so on and so on, until I became Sir Samuel's charge. I had hoped to stay with him until my end days, but as you are well aware, his gambling is not nearly as profitable as he wishes it to be."
"Perhaps not, but still you will be indebted to me for a period of one year. You could be free now."
Mercy smiled warmly. "Lord Benedict, I have seen free women. I do not wish to be one of them. Free women of our time are poor, uneducated, unkempt, filthy, and when they sell their bodies they do it for a coin or two and are often left beaten and diseased."
"And you are not diseased? Did you not spend time with pirates?"
"You know I am not. My Lord and Savior chose to protect me from the warts and bugs that often coat the seamen. The Captain of that ship was a nobleman as well," she cleared her throat, "at least in regards to his hygiene and the hygiene of his men."
"So you are willing to be mine for one year and then what? Will you seek your freedom then?"
"Truthfully, I hope to take this year to convince you and Mistress Isabell would be so pleased with me that you would keep me as your own. If not, then I would ask that you help me find another benefactor that enjoys the same delicacies in the bedroom that our circle enjoys."
Morgan chuckled. "I've never heard it put quite that way. 'Delicacies in the bedroom'. Some would say we are heathen and demented. Perverse and sinful."
Mercy shrugged her shoulders. "When it is done between consenting adults there is nothing wrong with what we do. A whip laid across flesh can be quite arousing when it is done properly," she then looked seductively at Morgan, "and I recall you lay a whip across an ass quite well."
Lord Benedict tilted his head, acknowledging her compliment. "There is one thing that you should know, in case your desire for her is what truly brings you to my door. Lady Isabell is no longer housed within these walls."
The look of surprise told Morgan what he needed to know. Isabell's departure had been handled swiftly and discretely, two things he had insisted on when he was ridding himself of her.
"May I ask what happened?"
"She was caught removing things from the house that did not belong to her. I shall not tolerate theft."
Mercy's gaze widened. "I would never bite the hand that feeds me, Sir."
"Yes, well Isabell did and she is now housed far from here. Safe, but she will not return to our shores anytime soon," Morgan leaned back in his chair, "I also expect you to remain true to me and me alone. My secrets are mine and if I share them with you they go no further. I will own your body, possess your soul and you will not give either to another man or woman without my permission. Is that acceptable to you?"
"Of course," Mercy told him. "Lord Benedict, I did not just fall off the cart Sir. I will admit that my desire for you runs deep and in truth I am anxious to serve you."
"Are you ready now?" he asked.
Mercy's breath caught her in throat. She licked her lips and nodded her head. "I am yours to command." "Come here Mercy and ride my cock."
Morgan watched as Mercy's lips rose in a genuine smile of pleasure. Her earlier proclamation that she had found him pleasing was telling in that smile. As she walked around his desk, he opened his trousers and pulled out his shaft. It had lengthened the moment Mercy had stepped into his study and it had grown thick and hard as he had read the letter from her former Master.
She reached his side and licked her lips. "Does it please you?" he asked with a slight smirk on his lips.
"Yes, Sir. All of you pleases me, and I hope to please you."
"I am sure you will, Mercy."
She lifted her skirts and climbed onto his lap. His chair had no armrests, so straddling him was not a difficult task for her nimble legs. He felt the heat of her sex surround him as she slowly drew him into her slick hole.
"You are quite ready, aren't you slut?"
Mercy moaned softly. "Yes, Sir. I admit," she sighed as she settled around him, "that I was ready the moment my former Master told me of his idea."
Again Morgan grinned. He placed his hands on her hips and began to rock her back and forth. She squeezed his rod, massaging his dick with the tight muscles of her sex until he was grunting and groaning in appreciation. Their initial act of fucking did not take long, his desire to fill her with his seed and mark her as his was too great. He coated her sex, and left her panting and wanting. "Mercy, this is not the room in which I wish to make you come. Not yet."
She smiled softly.
"Go to my chambers, there is a door to the left of my bed. Go there and wait for me," Morgan told her.
Mercy nodded her head, got up and stared at his moist cock. "May I?"
"Yes, my slut."
She got down on her knees and washed away the evidence of their mating. When she was done Morgan knew her desire was great. He had heard her whimpers and moans while she cleansed him of cum and fluid. "You are a hungry one, aren't you?" He rubbed her cheek, and toyed with her hair.
A soft blush rolled over her cheeks as she rose from the floor. "I believe Master Benedict, that I was made for you. Only you can feed me."
Morgan's cock tightened and jerked. "Go Mercy and prepare yourself. You may choose what you desire -- this time."
"Yes, Sir."
She left his study and made her way across the foyer, up the staircase and down the hall. Mercy was familiar with the layout of Benedict's home. She had been a guest there many a night when parties were thrown and Samuel had brought her. Now she lived within the walls of the man she had secretly craved for years.
Once inside his bedchamber Mercy felt at peace. She walked around his chambers, taking note where his boots were, as well as the layout of his shaving and grooming tools. She opened the armoire and memorized how his clothing was stored, and what pieces went where. Her goal was to become indispensable to her Master and though she knew she would never replace Gregory, his devoted man servant, she would do her best to lighten his load.
Mercy made her way to the room where she'd been instructed to go. Beside the door was a long lighting stick, which she lit from a turned down lantern that rested on the table. With the stick lit, she opened the door and lit the lantern that protruded from the wall, then quickly circled the room lighting all the candles and lanterns that she saw.
Afterward Mercy stood back and gazed hungrily upon her Master's surroundings. Against the north wall was a beautiful, polished St. Andrew's Cross with leather padding and leather restraints with gleaming metal buckles. Beside this was a table full of various implements of pain and pleasure. Whips and floggers made of different materials, as well as varying weights and lengths.
Along the south wall, Morgan Benedict had erected a set of pulleys that Mercy knew would allow him to suspend his prey for hours, if he willed it. There were shackles on the wall with metal rings and locks that would take twenty healthy men to pull from their housing. The east wall housed a bed, though it was more narrow than the bed in the master chamber. It was there to serve a purpose, it was not there for comfort and rest. Mercy shivered in anticipation of being taken upon the coarse covers by her Master. The west wall, which led to Benedict's bedchamber was for the most part bare. There was a paddling table, as well as a variety of paddles that hung from the wall. Another table with more tools depicting her Master's sexual desire rested next to the paddling table.
"Beautiful," she whispered, before releasing the buttons of her jacket, and pulling it off. She then released the strips of satin that kept her bodice closed. Following that, she removed her shoes, stockings and garters. Her sex was still wet from Morgan's earlier release. She dipped her fingers into her pussy and licked them clean. A shutter of lust rolled through her as she imagined supping on more of his cum.
After she satisfied the hunger on her tongue, she pulled off her dress and placed all her belongings on a hook that hung from the wall. She had not brought anything else with her. Samuel had told her that her new Master would provide for her and so she left with only what she'd worn on her person. Mercy walked away from all she owned and headed toward the pulley system. Morgan had told her to prepare herself and had given her free reign on how little or how much abuse she would be given. Mercy wanted it all. Samuel, for as perverse as he was, he was not nearly as cruel as she desired. Morgan would be, she had no doubt and she wanted him to know that she craved everything.
Morgan remained in the study for just under an hour. He sent a letter to Samuel, accepting Mercy as payment in full. Another missive was sent to Madam Brume, a well known seamstress who was known not only for her tight stitchery, but also for discretion. A third letter was sent to his bank, and account was opened in the name of Ms. Mercy Lewis. Benedict knew that over time society would know Ms. Lewis' place in his life, but he also was aware that if you bought discretion, it was supplied, even if everyone knew it didn't exist.
Once he had finished his letters, and addressed his house staff, he headed up to his rooms. His desire to once again bury his cock between the tight moist walls of Mercy's cunt had kept him hard for the past hour and his need made his balls ache. He walked into the dungeon and grinned at the naked woman who faced the wall.
Mercy had chosen the pulley system as the first scene they would play out. She had placed the iron clamps upon her ankles, locked them together, and then placed her hands inside the ones that were suspended above her head. It had not been hard for her to restrain herself, a quick flick of the wrist and the restraints had snapped into place. He promised to show her later how she could free herself, if the need ever arose. For now he could not help but admire her round ass, long legs and the curve of her breasts as they swayed whenever his little slut moved.
"I see you are eager to play," Morgan said before closing the door and walking toward the delicate morsel of sin.
"Yes, Sir."
He smiled as he glanced at her choice of toys. A 4' whip of the finest braided leather rested next to a flogger made of similar material. Beside this were clamps that would dig into his pet's skin and next to those were small weights that could be added to the clamps cord, weighing down the sensitive flesh. His cock jerked at the image of Mercy taking every strike and begging for more.
"Did Samuel feed you well?" he asked, as he ran one palm across her ass and squeezed the sweet round globe.
"He did his best, Sir."
"But you've desired more haven't you Mercy?" he asked, before gliding his hand between her ass cheeks and toying with her tight asshole.
Mercy pushed back on his finger. "I have Sir."
"Did you not let Samuel know your desires?"
"It was not my place Sir. He was pleased with me and that was what mattered."
Morgan frowned. "Perhaps to some Master's, but for my pleasure I wish to know what you desire as well. It may not be something I am willing to give you, but I would ask you tell me and let me decide. Do not withhold your lust from me. Is this understood?"
"Yes, Sir."
"Good. Now I see you've not been shy in regards to our playing, nor will I."
Morgan disrobed, storing his clothes on a hook next to the one Mercy had used. When he returned to her side, he picked up the clamps and secured them to her nipples and her clit. A small chain hung from each polished end and to this he added two steel weights.
Mercy groaned from the bite of the clamps' teeth and the heaviness of the steel. Her sex tightened and moisture seeped from her pussy lips. Morgan ran a palm across her abdomen. His fingers trailed across the smooth shaved surface of her sex. She hissed softly when his nails scrapped lazily down her wet lips and when the knuckle of his thumb pushed between them to tease her clit, causing the clamp to jostle against her flesh she bucked against him.
"I recall you being very responsive. It is good to see this has not changed."
Morgan turned a handle that was anchored to the wall and soon Mercy was being slowly lifted off the ground. He watched her chest rise and fall in excited breaths. When he was happy with her position, he gave her a soft push and Mercy spun around three times. After she stopped swaying Morgan was there to bring down three quick and well-placed lashes with his whip. "Your name my pet -- Mercy -- that will be the word you call out when you wish for me to be less heavy handed. And you will call out stay when you wish for me to stop. Understood?"
"Yes, Sir."
"Then we shall begin."
Mercy took a deep breath, hoping to calm the fury of excitement that was dancing through her veins. The first three lashes had been like a balm to her hungry soul and as Morgan began to deliver another volley of them, she felt her passion rising.
The tail of the whip kissed her back, the small of her back, and the backs of her thighs. The leather tail snaked around her torso, and bit the underside of her right breast. She bit down on her lower lip, welcoming each sting and secretly craving for more.
Morgan watched her face and saw the juices of her sex glisten in the light that spilled about the room. He drug the tail of the whip against her pussy, catching the juice and coating the weapon with her fragrance. He brought it down again, this time across her chest, belly and sex. She bucked against her restraints. The weights and the chains that were tethered to the clamps swayed angrily back and forth, pulling on her flesh and making her skin grow red and sore.
"Cry out your passion, slut," Morgan shouted as six more strikes of the whip were laid upon her bare flesh.
Mercy did not hesitate. She begged him for more. Her nectar slid from her cunt, coating her thighs and trailing down her alabaster skin. "Master?"
"Yes?" Morgan's voice was soft. He trailed the whip along her ribs and down her thighs, teased the crack of her ass with the handle and kissed her back. "What is it, slut?"
"When my body aches and the need to come overwhelms me, do you wish for me to ask permission?"
"I do recall Samuel making that a requirement of you. No, slut. When my whore's need to come is so great. I do not wish her to waste time asking permission." He pushed the handle of the whip into her pussy and twisted the polished wood back and forth. "So come when you need my little bitch."
"Yes, Master." Mercy sighed as Morgan fucked her repeatedly with the whip. He sucked on her clit, removing the clamp with his teeth, before pulling and tugging on the sensitive nub himself.
Mercy's hips gyrated lewdly against his face. He smiled and sucked harder until she was screaming "Master" and showering him with her nectar. He watched with a satisfied smirk as her come flowed hot and freely down the whip and against his palm. After the first wave of come had rushed from her, Morgan pulled the whip away and lowered his mouth to her hot hole. He drank greedily from her pussy as another shot of clear hot lava flowed onto his tongue and down his throat.
She bucked wildly and he held her still as he ate her out and caused her to come again. Her gasping and moaning, hissing and ragged breathing were signals that told Morgan to remove himself from her pussy. He stepped back, kissed her belly and reached out to remove the clamps from her sore nipples. He covered first the right with long languorous licks and gentle sucks, before repeating the same sweet treatment to the other.
Mercy came again as her Master caressed and suckled her like a babe latched to a mother's breast. She felt her Master's smile against her breast and inside her heart melted. She opened her eyes and watched with awe as he nursed from her. The image was more breathtaking than her imagination had ever projected.
When he was done he looked up and greeted her gaze with his hungry lustful one. "I am far from finished pet," he whispered before abandoning her tits and moving to grasp the flogger.
His cock was hard. His balls ached and his desire to plunge his cock into her tight core was building, yet he called upon the discipline he was known for and waited for the right moment to once again coat her with his seed.


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Leaving for DragonCon at (yucch!) 6:30 AM Friday (September 4). Hope to see some of you there. For the record, here's my schedule:
Friday, 7:00-8:00 PM
Panel: The Weird West Rides Again!
Panelists: Me, Cherie Priest, Laura Ann Gilman
Location: Augusta 3, in the Westin
Saturday, 4:00-5:00 PM
Panel: World-Building, Part 1 — Building Alternate Eras
Panelists: Me, Eric Flint, S. M. Stirling, D. B. Jackson
Location: Augusta 3, in the Westin
Sunday, 2:30-3:30 PM
Location: Edgewoood, in the Hyatt
Monday, 10:00-11:00 AM
Panel: Influences in Today's SF/F/Horror Fiction
Panelists: Me, Todd McCaffrey, Tricia Woldridge, Alexandra
Duncan, Stephen L. Antczak
Location: In the Hyatt Embassy D-F


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Property Taxes
Important Information Regarding Property Assessments
This may affect your 2017 property taxes.
The Open Book Meeting for the City of Belle Plaine will be conducted on Wednesday, May 4th, from 2:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Scott County Government Center in Shakopee, 200 4th Avenue West, Taxation Office. The purpose of this meeting is to give each taxpayer the opportunity to informally review or challenge assessed values or classifications for the 1/2/2016 assessment.
If you believe the value or classification of your property is incorrect, first please contact your assessor's office to discuss your concerns. The appropriate number to call is listed on your Notice of Valuation and Classification that was mailed to you in March of 2016. If you disagree with the valuation or classification after discussing with your assessor, you may appear before the county special board of appeal and equalization. To schedule an appeal appointment with the board you must call the assessor by May 20, 2016.
The City of Belle Plaine conducts its annual Truth in Taxation Hearing in December. At this hearing, residents may comment on the revenues and expenses of the City's budget and levy. More details below.
A property owner may dispute the assessed value of their property, which impacts property taxes. A property tax statement for current year property taxes are mailed to taxpayers, along with the Notices of Valuation and Classification for the following for tax year. Taxpayers may contact the Assessor at Scott County with questions and concerns regarding their valuation or classification for taxes payable in the following year. The telephone number of the appropriate Assessor is listed on the notice.
Scott County website has information regarding property assessment.
The State of Minnesota Department of Revenue has some great information available to explain the process.
- http://www.revenue.state.mn.us/propertytax/factsheets/factsheet_01.pdf
- http://www.revenue.state.mn.us/propertytax/factsheets/factsheet_10.pdf
- http://www.revenue.state.mn.us/propertytax/Pages/factsheets.aspx
Truth in Taxation - City Budget and Levy - December
The Truth in Taxation (TNT) hearing is held in December of each year and allows public comment regarding the revenues and expenditures of the city's budget and levy associated with city services for the upcoming year. The budget and levy impacts property taxes.
This is your opportunity to voice your opinion regarding the City's proposed budget and levy. An overview of major changes in the budget and levy are presented at this hearing. This meeting is not a forum for taxpayers to appeal their market value.
The State of Minnesota Department of Revenue has some great information available to explain the property taxes.
Please contact City Hall at 952-873-5553 if you have further questions.


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Seating Mattress - Toshak
Request Quote
In stock
Seat Mattress - Toshak
Categories: Shop, Set Staging, Modular Huts
The seating mattress is used in many foreign countries such as Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iran, India, Iraq, Yemen, etc. Great for natural appearance, and realistic set staging.Inside layer is made of dense foam used for bed mattresses. These toshaks are best for seating, and/or sleeping. Toshaks are mainly in living rooms. Many perfer Toshaks rather than chairs due to their traditions or perhaps their financial state. These toshaks are built with quality and use a special type of cushion foam from the United States.
Set Includes:
- 1 Mattress: 6'X3'X3"
- 2 Pillows: 20X30


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Relax. You don't have to fill your novel or screenplay with 140 characters to be a successful author! In this instance, "characters" refer to single letters or numerals used in each entry, or "tweet," on Twitter, the popular the micro-blogging site. So what does tweeting messages only 140 characters long have to do with publishing success?
"Everything," says Shelley Lieber, The Wordy Woman, who was recently named by Mashable.com as one of "70+ Authors to Follow on Twitter," along with such best-selling authors as Deepak Chopra, Tony Robbins, Tim Ferris, Suze Orman, Mariel Hemingway and Arianna Huffington.
The Wordy Woman will share her Twitter tips and strategies that she used to gain recognition as one of the top authors in her market in ONLY SIX MONTHS in a free tele-class. This is a don't-miss event for every writer who wants to get the word out about his or her book!
Free Call*: Twitter Your Way to Publishing Success
When: Wednesday, June 3, 2pm Eastern
(1pm Central, 12pm Mountain, 11am Pacific)
Call-in Details: (641) 715-3300, Access Code 171279#
*The tele-class is free to attend, but long distance charges may apply.


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George W. Bush: Bio, Christian Faith and Quotes
All of you are aware of who George W. Bush is. If not, I'm a little worried! He was the President of the United States right before Obama took over. What you may or may not know, however, is that he is a professed Christian and despite the many people who make fun of him for his accent, claiming he sounds dumb, he has actually said many inspirational and smart things. This article will provide a brief biography of his life, describe his Christian faith a little, and then list a handful of quotes that are accredited to him. Without further ado, here is George W.Bush: Bio, Christian Faith and Quotes.
Brief Biography
George W. Bush was born to Barbara and George H. W Bush on July 6, 1946. Most of his childhood was spent in Texas, being raised with four other siblings, him being the eldest. Upon graduating from High School, he went on to Yale University where he would earn a Bachelor's Degree in History by 1968. Afterwards, he continued with his education by entering Harvard Business School where he would earn an M.B.A, the only president to have done so. His background and education made him well fit for life in the Oil Business, where he started out. From 1968 to 1974, though, he spent time in the Texas Air National Guard. Despite all of this, politics was still in his blood. Bush's father was a member of the House of Representatives and his grandfather, Prescott Bush, was a U.S Senator. Despite being a member of the upper class, so to speak, Bush still enjoyed American things like most people. For one, there was the love of Baseball. Bush spent some time as co-owner of the Texas Rangers MLB team. As you well know, George W. Bush became the 43rd President of the United States of America, serving two terms from 2001-2009.
Christian Faith
George W. Bush never made it a secret that he was a Christian. He openly spoke and quoted the Bible, admitted to being a Christian, and even attended church. Being raised in Texas, such a fact comes as no surprise. The way most people tell whether or not he was a Christian, though, is by his words. So, let's move on to some notable quotes that came straight from the mouth of our 43rd President, George W. Bush.
"America has never been united by blood or birth or soil. We are bound by ideals that move us beyond our backgrounds, lift us above our interests and teach us what it means to be citizens."
"God is not on the side of any nation, yet we know He is on the side of justice. Our finest moments [as a nation] have come when we faithfully served the cause of justice for our own citizens, and for the people of other lands."
"I believe that freedom is the deepest need of every human soul."
"We will not tire, we will not falter, and we will not fail."
"The advance of liberty is the path to both a safer and better world."
"...The God I know is one that promotes peace and freedom. But I get great sustenance from my personal relationship. That doesn't make me think I'm a better person than you are, by the way. Because one of the great admonitions in the Good Book is, don't try to take a speck out of your eye if I've got a log in my own."
"I believe that God has planted in every human heart the desire to live in freedom. And even when that desire is crushed by tyranny for decades, it will rise again."
"My faith plays a big part in my life. And when I was answering that question what I was really saying to the person was that I pray a lot. And I do. And my faith is a very, it's very personal. I pray for strength. I pray for wisdom. I pray for our troops in harm's way. I pray for my family. I pray for my little girls."
Obviously, there is a lot more to George W. Bush than what is contained within this article. However, hopefully this has piqued your curiosity about him. There is much more to learn about him, so go ahead and do some searches on him, or read his own book that he authored. And, whatever else you know about him, feel free to share it in a comment below!


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Cyprus/ 8.1 Support to artists and other creative workers
8.1.1 Overview of strategies, programmes and direct or indirect forms of support
Supportto artists is either direct or indirect. Direct support is provided by means of the state funding system for providing financial aid to cultural projects promoted by the artists themselves, and by not for profit organisations or other cultural operators. Moreover, travel grants are provided to artists on the basis of certain criteria (cf. chapter 4.2.4). In addition to the above, there are certain policy measures in place which support artistic work, like for example, the purchase of works of art for the collection of the State Gallery of Contemporary Cypriot Art, the promotion of Cypriot art abroad through the participation in such international artistic events as is the Venice Biennale, and the Midem Music Fair. Moreover, public buildings can be enriched with works of art, based on a specific law (cf. chapter 5.3.1). An honorary pension scheme awarded to cultural workers for their longstanding contribution has been in place, but is currently being re-evaluated. Apart from the above, certain institutions such as the Cyprus Symphony Orchestra (CySO) or the Cyprus Theatre Organisation (THOC), support artistic creation.
Chapter published: 05-10-2015


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Pentax Previews 7 New Products at CP+ 2012
Pentax is displaying new interchangeable lenses and camera accessories that are currently under development at the Japanese camera show, CP+ 2012. On show will be the smc PENTAX-D FA645 90mm f/2.8 medium-format lens, smc PENTAX-DA 560mm f/5.6 and smc PENTAX-DA 50mm f/1.8 K-mount lenses, telephoto zoom lens and standard lens with "body cap" design for the Pentax Q system, super-thin interchangeable lens for the K-01 compact system camera, and a lens adapter for mounting a K-mount lens onto a Q-mount body. Names and prices of these products will be confirmed at a later date.
Pentax UK Press Release
PENTAX to Exhibit 7 Reference Products at CP+ 2012 Camera and Imaging Show
PENTAX RICOH IMAGING COMPANY, LTD. is pleased to announce the exhibition of seven reference products — interchangeable lenses and camera accessories currently under development — at CP+ 2012, one of the largest and most comprehensive camera and imaging shows in Asia. This annual event will be held from February 9th to 12th at the PACIFIC YOKOHAMA convention center in Japan.
Reference Products
1. Interchangeable lens for medium-format digital SLR camera
?Model name (tentative): smc PENTAX-D FA645 90mm f/2.8
• Unifocal medium-telephoto lens for use with the PENTAX 645D
• Focal length ideal for portraiture and high-quality image reproduction with beautiful bokeh (out-of-focus) effect
• Market launch scheduled for 2012
2. Interchangeable K-mount lenses for digital SLR cameras
Model name (tentative): smc PENTAX-DA 560mm f/5.6
• Unifocal super-telephoto lens for use with PENTAX K-mount digital SLR cameras
• Sharp, well-defined images — particularly with distant subjects — thanks to the adoption of optics used in astronomical telescopes
• Market launch scheduled for 2012
?Model name (tentative): smc PENTAX-DA 50mm f/1.8
• Unifocal standard lens for use with PENTAX K-mount digital SLR cameras
• Maximum aperture of F1.8 for high-quality images with a superb rendition of depth and natural bokeh (out-of-focus) effect
• Market launch scheduled for 2012
3. Interchangeable Q-mount lenses for digital SLR cameras
?Model name (tentative): TELEPHOTO ZOOM
• Telephoto zoom lens (high-performance-lens series) for use with PENTAX Q-mount digital SLR cameras
• Exceptional image rendition for sharp, high-contrast images, even at the edges of the image field, thanks to the state-of-the-art optical design
• Market launch scheduled for 2012
?Model name (tentative): MOUNT CAP LENS
• Unifocal standard lens (unique-lens series) for use with PENTAX Q-mount digital SLR cameras
• Eye-catching "body cap" design, along with a toy-camera-like visual effect
• Market launch scheduled for 2012
4. Interchangeable K-mount lens for the PENTAX K-01
?Model name: TBA
• Super-thin interchangeable lens especially designed for the PENTAX K-01 digital camera
• Market launch: TBA
5. Lens adapter
?Model name: Adapter Q for K-mount Lenses
• Lens adapter for mounting a K-mount lens onto a Q-mount digital SLR camera body
• Built-in shutter unit; manual-focus operation only
• Market launch scheduled for Spring 2012
Model names, designs, specifications and market launch schedules of these products are all tentative and subject to change without notice. Prices of these products will be announced at a later date.
About PENTAX RICOH IMAGING COMPANY
PENTAX RICOH IMAGING COMPANY LTD is a leading supplier of recreational and professional cameras and photographic equipment world-wide, with a long standing UK brand heritage. Its product range is extensive and includes state of the art digital SLR, medium format, interchangeable lens system (mirrorless) cameras, zoom compact cameras and an extensive range of high performance lenses and accessories. In addition, it has a superb range of binoculars, suitable for a variety of leisure activities.
PENTAX RICOH IMAGING UK LTD successfully distributes its products through a number of channels, including independent camera shops, mass merchandisers and national multiple retailers - both on and offline.
PENTAX RICOH IMAGING UK LTD is a subsidiary of PENTAX RICOH IMAGING COMPANY LTD of Japan.
For more information visit www.pentax.co.uk/photo
Visit us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/pentaxuk
Find us on Twitter @PentaxUK


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Up until this season, 15-year-old Josh Moore played Lynette's good son on "Desperate Housewives," Parker Scavo. That was by order of Felicity Huffman herself.
"The script called for me to roll my eyes in a scene and she was like 'Whoa, what was that little eye roll right there?'" Moore tells Zap2it.
He continues, "Then she turned around to the writers and was like, 'He can't do that. Lynette already has the twins against her. We have to have at least one good kid here.' So, from then on Parker was the mama's boy."
Well, Moore tells us that times – they are a-changing. This season, he gets to explore Parker's rebellious side. "He's breaking out of his shell a little bit," he says. "He is progressing as a rebellious teenager, as he should be. So hopefully that leads to bigger more crazy story lines." (Hint: Parker is getting into the gals…)
Not that Lynette doesn't already have enough drama on her hands with new housewife, Renee (played by Vanessa Williams). "We know she's up to no good," he tells us. "She's a little bit sneaky. Something about her character is not right." Ah, music to our ears…
Don't look now, but we think Moore is worth keeping an eye on. Before he landed the ABC gig, the Austin native's first film role landed him in Clint Eastwood's "Changeling," which starred Angelina Jolie. And we believe there's more to come for the young star.
Get to know Josh Moore:
Best advice a coworker gave you?
"Don't beat yourself up over mistakes. Everybody does it. You're going to be doing it for the rest of your life." – Doug Savant, who plays Parker's dad, Tom Scavo, when Moore was worrying about flubbing a line on a particularly long shoot day.
Best compliment someone can pay you?
Whenever you get a big laugh from the crew on any of your lines. That's really the biggest compliment from the crew because they are going to see that sixty-two times that day. So, knowing you got a laugh the first time is really good. It's always cool when that happens.
What advice could you give to young aspiring actors?
It's really all about determination… No matter how long it takes, if this is what you love, if this is what you want to do, you have to do it. You have no other choice.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
Dramatic roles — whether its television, theater, or film. Larger dramatic roles, leads, that what's I'm really into doing.
Which actors do you look up to?
Terrence Howard, Donald Sutherland and Kevin Spacey.
Follow Zap2it and TheRealJethro on Twitter and Zap2it on Facebook for the latest TV, movie and celebrity news.
Photo credit: Nathaniel Taylor Photography; ABC


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An irregularly updated blog whose purpose is to chronicle the development of my various wargaming projects, but primarily my foray into the joys of colonial wargaming set in the Sudan
Monday, 9 February 2015
Thunder Road
9 comments:
We play Machinas, which covers road-chases and races very well, although you need to (i) get the expansion decks to get the full range of car/driver traits and (ii) tweak it in a few places. It's from Two Hour Wargames and is a relatively cheap download :)ReplyDelete
I have similar moments of madness, which the club regulars are happy to go along with. I have some converted Hot Wheels for just this sort of thing and have used Axles and Alloys in the past, which is free and easy to use for multiplayer games.
Car Lords and the old GW Battlecars (a great game!) would also work really well. In think you can download the latter for free? Outrider is also worth a look, although you need to print out the road templates and markers, so it's not really a pick up and play option.
...oh, and there are some excellent 15mm figures from The Scene, which would look OK if you added a suitably uplifting base.ReplyDelete
Try here for figures and bikes:ReplyDelete
The vehicles look great btw.
- Anonymous10 February 2015 at 19:57
Very cool! I've never been bitten by that particular bug, but those make me want have a go at some mad maxxing.ReplyDelete
Thanks for the kind words and suggestions everybody :)ReplyDelete
Wow! Super cool rides!ReplyDelete
Road Wolf is nice for a quick and simple game of vehicle combat.ReplyDelete
Road Wolf is nice for a quick and simple game of vehicle combat.ReplyDelete


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I was recently able to review the cook book, Fix It & Forget It: Revised and Updated Edition!
The Fix It & Forget It Story:
Phyllis Pellman Good loves food. She's especially concerned for those who don't have enough time to cook, as well as those who lack the confidence to cook.
Phyllis and her husband, Merle, launched the Fix-It and Forget-It franchise in 2000, after many years of publishing popular cookbooks. "Food sustains us, both physically and socially. I want to make it possible to prepare food at home, despite our hectic lives, and to be able to share it together.
The Fix-It and Forget-It cookbooks make it possible to prepare nutritious, tasty meals every day.
- You can make Welcome-Home food in a matter of minutes.
- Each cookbook's pages are packed with recipes. Each cookbook has between 500 and 800 recipes.
- The books sell for peanuts!
- The recipes call for just a few ingredients -- and they're readily available.
- Many of the recipes are offered in multiple variations. Find the one that suits your taste -- and for the ingredients which you have on hand.
- Preparations are easy; the ingredients are reasonably priced.
- The food you dish out of your slow cooker is delicious, healthy -- and satisfying.
- Everybody eats well -- without the cook being under pressure.
- Everyone goes away from the table happy -- with little preparation time or shopping money spent.
- Little fuss. Lots of flavor!
The book has already sold more than 5 million copies, so we didn't want to spoil it! We have only added a few enhancements to this original cookbook in the wildly claimed Fix-It and Forget-It cookbook series:
- Brand New: 100 new recipes for slow cookers.
- Brand New: "Prep Time," "Cooking Time," and "Ideal Slow-Cooker Size" are included for each recipe.
- Brand New: 4 pages of basic and very helpful "Extra Information":
- "Substitute Ingredients for When You're in a Pinch"
- "Equivalent Measurements"
- "Kitchen Tools and Equipment You May Have Overlooked"
- "Assumptions about Ingredients in Fix-It and Forget-It Cookbook, Revised and Updated"
My Review:
I have seen the original Fix It & Forget It book as several friends and family own it, but I have never had the pleasure to use it, until now. What an awesome cookbook! In the two weeks I have had this book, I have used five recipes from Fix It and Forget It. They are the following:
1. Tasty Meatball Stew (p. 35)
2. Gone All Day Casserole (p. 85)
3. California Chicken (p. 178)
4. Easy Teriyaki Chicken (p. 181)
5. Easy Chicken A La King (p. 184)
All five of these recipes were incredibly easy to prepare and tasted very good! The temperatures and times posted in recipes for cooking were exact and needed no adjusting with my personal crockpot. That said, each one is different and therefore, you may need to adjust your own according to recipes.
Here is just one of the recipes that I would like to share with you.
Gone All Day Chicken
1 cup uncooked wild rice, rinsed and drained
1 cup chopped celery
1 cup chopped carrots
2 4oz cans mushrooms, drained
1 large onion, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 cup slivered almonds
3 beef bouillon cubes
2.5 tsp seasoned salt
2lb boneless round steak, cut into 1 inch cubes
3 cups water
1. Place ingredients in order listed in slow cooker.
2. Cover. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or until rice is tender. Stir before serving
1. Brown beef in saucepan in 2 tbsp oil before putting in slow cooker for deeper flavor
2. Add a bay leaf and 4-6 whole peppercorns to mixture before cooking. Remove before serving
3. Substitute chicken legs and thighs (skin removed) for beef.
The above recipe was very yummy, and really does not need anything else added to it. Your meal is complete when cooked as above. However, I did add a nice green salad for the extra vegetables!
The book is is divided into the following sections:
1. Appetizers, Snacks and Spreads
2. Breakfast Foods
3. Breads
4. Soups, Stews and Chilis
5. Main Dishes (Beef, Pork, Pasta, Chicken & Turkey, Bean, Seafood, Meatless & Other)
6. Vegetables
7. Desserts
8. Beverages
I also love all the new additions to this editions to Fix It and Forget it, like the "What To Substitute", "Basic Slow Cooker Info" and so much more! The book is very well organized and easy to follow! Bright color pictures and tips throughout the book add to its attractiveness. I also love that there is a whole series of the Fix It and Forget It Books, including a Diabetic Cooking one! Very handy, since I am diabetic, and I am definitely going to be purchasing that one in the future.
If you like to prep meals ahead of time or want to start using your crock pot more often, then I highly recommend this book! It would be a wonderful bridal shower gift, or even a baby shower gift as it can meal prep for new moms so much easier! I give this book a huge thumbs up!
BUY IT: You can purchase Fix It and Forget It: Updated & Revised Edition online, through Amazon.com and Amazon.ca
***Thank you to FSB Media for providing me with a complimentary copy of this book for the purpose of review on this blog***


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In today's global environment, developments in technology have allowed businesses to reach a wider audience. This has brought benefits, such as increased customer base, global suppliers, economies of scale, however it has also brought significant risk, not least to Information Governance. Data, the lifeblood of every organisation, both public and private, is more at risk than ever before. Data is a valuable commodity, one which criminals can make high profits from and the loss of which can damage a business in many ways.Read more
The objective of all Governance Frameworks is to implement operating best practice that results in lower financial losses from compliance failures, and little, if any, visible publicity that can harm an organisation. These best practices also make it relatively easy for an organisation to sail through regulatory audits.Read more
User awareness plays a crucial role in PCI security compliance; with 51% of businesses indicating that their data is attacked daily and hourly (Ponemon Institute 2009), a vigilant, aware user population provides an essential line of defence in the battle for data security. However this is often the last area of the PCI DSS to be addressed.Read more
Public awareness of fraud and information security threats grow stronger with every data breach and identity theft case reported. Industries at greatest risk comprise of the following...
MetaCompliance® © 2019. All Rights Reserved. | Privacy Policy | Cookie Policy | Copyright | Sitemap
MetaCompliance has a rating of 4.7/ 5 based on 21 ratings and reviews


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- Overview
Small, But Powerful
The LED Lenser K2 Keychain LED Flashlight weighs in at a mere 0.71 ounces and measures just 2-inches in length, but this tiny kechain light is strong. To turn on this little light, simply twist the bezel. The K2 is ideal for walking to and from the car, home, or office at night.
Features of the LED Lenser K2 Keychain Light:
- High End LED provides circular, shadow-free "moon" beam
- Hard gold-plated battery contacts to maximize efficiency and resist corrosion
- Water resistant
- Includes 1 K2 LED flashlight with key ring & instruction manual
Light Output: 25 Lumens
Beam Distance: 20 meters
LED: High End LED
Length: 2.05 inches / 5.2 cm
Weight: 0.71 oz / 20 grams
Battery: 4 x AG13
Energy Tank: 0.92 Wh*
LED Lenser lights are covered by the LED Lenser USA 5 Year Warranty.
5 Year Warranty
* Energy Tank is a term created by LED Lenser to describe the efficiency of each light in regards to battery type/usage. It is the calculated amount of outputs in watt hours (Wh) of the enclosed batteries in the condition they were supplied by LED Lenser at the time of delivery. Learn more about Energy Tank.>
- Details
Maximum Lumens: 25 - 49 Max. Beam Distance (in Meters): 15 - 24 Flashlight Features: Water Resistant, Standard Power
- Reviews


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Greetings from the Shore
Still reeling from the death of her father, a young girl spends one last summer at the Jersey Shore before heading off to college. But when her plans fall apart, the girl stumbles into a mysterious world of Russian sailors, high-stakes gambling, and unexpected love.
Genres: Drama, Comedy, Romance
Actors: Kim Shaw, Paul Sorvino, David Fumero, Jay O. Sanders, Lars Arentz-Hansen, Andrew Shaifer, Gideon Emery, Ron Geren, Alexander Cendese, Angela Pietropinto, Cristin Milioti, Cordelia Reynolds, Chuck Ardezzone, Jason Etter, Anne Berberich
Director: Greg Chwerchak
Country: USA


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Our girl got braces! I now officially feel as if we are hurtling toward teenage-hood! Of course, we think she looks darling, but I won't pretend that she didn't shed a tear or two about getting them. I was a little worried as she has always has some sensitivity issues, but aside from needing to take some Advil, she has weathered the toughest part rather well!
Bryce took her out for a little post braces Starbucks date.
I made a little treat for her to celebrate this milestone.
And I love how she has embraced the braces and a positive attitude! She made this little note for herself and attached it to her bed.


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Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Aussie Queen of Dessert Tables
Ok..seriously..I am still drooling about how amazing this dessert table is (top). Im sure quite a few of you would have seen these photo's flying around blogs worldwide the last couple of weeks.
Sharnel, of My Life - My Loves, and The Cupcake Company, created this sensation for her son's 4th birthday party. As soon as I saw the sneak peak here, in early Jan, of the invitation and pinwheel, I knew we would be in for some major eye candy !
I can't stop looking at it, I just love everything about it, every detail, and the colour scheme ! WOW. I am so inspired by this, I just can't wait for Max's naming day, if I can make it look half as amazing as Sharnel's work I will be stoked.
I just had to know more about this talented lady, so I asked Sharnel to share a bit about herself with us, thanks Sharnel xx
What did you want to be when you were a little girl ?
A pop star. Each afternoon I would belt out Whitney Houston, microphone and all. Luckily we lived on acreage! Young Talent Time was and still is the greatest Australian TV show.
What is your favourite colour ?
I love so many colours, but if I had to pin one down it would be a shade of pink and coral.
Where do you find inspiration for styling your childrens birthday parties ?
Anywhere and everywhere. I normally select my colours first and go from there.
What inspired you to start your business The Cupcake Company ?
My love of cake and design. I can see myself heading into event styling though.
What tips do you have for creating a fantastic dessert table ?
Symmetry, height, layering and texture. I love adding fruit and floral arrangements, it adds another dimension.
What do you do to relax / what is your idea of a relaxing day ?
A few hours at a spa is heaven to me. I also love spending the day at the beach with my family – minus the sunburn. I crisp up like a piece on panchettta.
Where are your favourite places to shop for party supplies ?
I have to admit I do a lot of my purchasing in the good old US of A. However, the shipping costs are normally prohibitive.
But I love: www.lunabazaar.com, and www.candywarehouse.com.
Australian online stores:
Bricks and Mortar stores: Bunnings, Spotlight, Riot Arts & Crafts, Donna Hay General Store.
Im sure you will all agree, when Sharnel says 'I can see myself heading into event styling though', I say 'YOU GO GIRL'.
Sarah xx
Posted by Style Me Gorgeous at 2:57 AM
Labels: Party Ideas
3 comments:
fabulous! My mouth is watering already...ReplyDelete
We love Sharnel's style. We have a feeling little Max's naming day will be somthing special too if your track record is anything to go by.ReplyDelete
Sharnel is amazing !! And her cupcakes taste deliciouuusssss also !! Great little interview with her too, added nice personality to the post. Can't wait to see more of Sharnels work. xxReplyDelete
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One famed quote of life is "Live and Learn" and who can argue with that .As year pass, we are able to witness and participate in a host of new experience. Each year brings us new experience and a greater acknowledgment of the various truth of life. There comes a time, when one realizes that one's accomplishments and distinctive journey through life have been made richer by the existence of those(either direct or by some other source) who have touched one's mind, body, or spirit. It normally becomes extra important for those people who are suffering from "I can do it on my own" syndrome and normally find it more difficult to deal with their life's problems because they don't believe in sharing it with anyone. Although in real, no one truly solves your problems, they don't even bother about it much and I think why should they?? After all they have their own songs to resonate…. Phir bhi Yaar! At least that talking therapy gives you some temporally relief. But look! Just stop here as for this also, you need someone's ears and finding that "SOMEONE" is all over again a throbbing search .So finally option closed for some of us. L
Then what next?? What do you think?? Okay don't think much…just nourish your brain for some other productive tasks.
I will suggest by using mine although I don't have much of it …what my cerebrum says is that some of us found ourselves left with nothing but few spiritual books, quotes of some enlightened souls and self help forums on Google Uncle where background score usually prepared by Jagjit Singh/or some other singers. But for some lunatic like me, the story simply doesn't end here, because who the hell will take guidance of western experts??How could we leave them without storming their brain and knowledge? Of course I do..!! Although it seems very eccentric, but who cares? Till the day, they are entertaining me. Thanks to western upbringing and their education system..! Where they aren't conscious about status like Indians and taught to share their knowledge with everyone, whosoever ask for it..!!
Leave it..!! So where was I?? Okay I got it!! Was talking about some activities which could help us during our thin so that we can look for solutions to our life's problems? So here this time, I am going to dedicate this lens truly to some of those gifted and gracious people and to their teachings, who have left an incredible and indelible impression upon me for which I shall be eternally grateful. To those who brought me into being, to those who have inspired me with their thoughts along my path, and to those who have befriended and taught me valuable lessons about what truly matters. May be their pearls of wisdom expressed in simple words leave a deep impact on you too..!! And guide you as a person on the art of living that you should follow and make up your life.
So fasten your belt and enjoy the ride….
I first start with Bhagavad Geeta as it is an infallible guide and a sacred resource that will contribute to our individual and collective peace and blessedness. It will be necessary for us to reflect and mediate on its meaning. It became my dictionary of daily reference. But I will state only those teachings which had guided me though my life's journey.
Whatever happened, happened for good.
Whatever is happening, is happening for good.
Whatever will happen, that will be for good as well.
Whatever will happen, that will be for good as well.
A man should reshape himself through the power of his will. He should never let himself be degraded by his lower self will: the (positive) will is the only friend of the self, and the (negative) will is the only enemy of reaching the self.
(These particular teaching has to be inculcated in our subconscious in spite of all our fears for future) So from my side this holy book has guided me in this fashion but then what next ?? or this is all...Nah..!! Not at all. I don't believe in wasting time of others.
Have little bit of patience :-) Here it's an opportunity for all of us to learn something from every single gesture of these great people.Without taking much of your time,I would like to introduced my next shining star but it will be your responsibility to make it out.who is s/he??
If you have ever desired for doing something for the mankind then I think your thoughts will be incomplete without her .The world altruism is synonym to her. The motive why I admire her a lot is simple as I also want to make a difference in people's lives just like she did. So have you got any idea till this?? If not than I bet this will work. Pope John Paul II once said "She marked the history of our century with courage. She served all human beings by promoting their dignity and respect, and made those who had been defeated by life, feel the tenderness of God."Now any guesses?? Yes, Yes..! You guessed it right…Who else can take her place??
Obviously she is none other but our Mother Teresa. Her name is self explanatory hence no more introduction for her from my side and for the second time I am resisting myself to her wisdom only. Mentioning one of her best sayings out of many, which had bolstered my unconditional love and care for people despite their betrayals and mistreatments:-
People are often unreasonable and self-centered. Forgive them anyway.
If you are kind, people may accuse you of ulterior motives. Be kind anyway.
If you are honest, people may cheat you. Be honest anyway.
If you find happiness, people may be jealous. Be happy anyway.
The good you do today may be forgotten tomorrow. Do well anyway.
Give the world the best you have and it may never be enough. Give your best anyway.
For you see, in the end, it is between you and God. It was never between you and them anyway.
If you are kind, people may accuse you of ulterior motives. Be kind anyway.
If you are honest, people may cheat you. Be honest anyway.
If you find happiness, people may be jealous. Be happy anyway.
The good you do today may be forgotten tomorrow. Do well anyway.
Give the world the best you have and it may never be enough. Give your best anyway.
For you see, in the end, it is between you and God. It was never between you and them anyway.
(I hope these above mentioned lines will help us to cover up this long journey which exist between human beings and to being human.)
Now it's turn for someone else who is waiting for you with his enlightenment from so long. Just make out who is he??
For over twelve years from 1890-1902, amidst much hardship, suffering and personal humiliation, He toured all over India and to several places abroad as wandering monk and his name is associated with spirituality, modernity and humanity. A torch bearer who had came into my life when I needed the God most and helped me to come over my childish fear and temporary attachments. He had given many martyrs like Bhagat Singh to our motherland. I will not feel ashamed to accept this fact that it's is actually better that he was there in the era of 19th century otherwise the one who had spent his whole life while awakening India's youth would have committed suicide after considering today's youths. Anyway leave it, here we are not suppose to discuss all these never ended discussion, so without holding much of your time, I will strait away land up on his thoughts because I believe that his teachings are relevant for centuries to come because it was Swami Vivekananda who had cited some of the right causes of our downfall.
Blessed are those whose bodies get destroyed in the service of others. They alone live who live for others; the rest are more dead than alive.
Neither money pays, nor name, nor fame, nor learning; it is CHARACTER that can cleave through adamantine walls of difficulties.
It is only a few that understand the language of the brain, but everyone understands the language that comes from the heart.
The old religions said that he was an atheist who did not believe in God. The new religion says that he is an atheist who does not believe in himself.
Take up one idea. Make that one idea your life - think of it, dream of it, and live on that idea. Let the brain, muscles, nerves, every part of your body, be full of that idea, and just leave every other idea alone. This is the way to success.
Arise, Awake and Stop not till the goal is reached..!!
Neither money pays, nor name, nor fame, nor learning; it is CHARACTER that can cleave through adamantine walls of difficulties.
It is only a few that understand the language of the brain, but everyone understands the language that comes from the heart.
The old religions said that he was an atheist who did not believe in God. The new religion says that he is an atheist who does not believe in himself.
Take up one idea. Make that one idea your life - think of it, dream of it, and live on that idea. Let the brain, muscles, nerves, every part of your body, be full of that idea, and just leave every other idea alone. This is the way to success.
Arise, Awake and Stop not till the goal is reached..!!
(I think these are sufficient for giving you that one kick which we all need sometimes to march ahead in our life.)
Knock! Knock! Who is there in the queue?? Oh gosh! Just give her way to come forward otherwise you would lose the opportunity to have rendezvous with her. Blessed are those who have ever got a chance to meet her. So any speculation?? Who is going to give you courage to do something exceptional in your life in spite of all stereotypes made for us?
The saga of India's first and the highest ranked woman officer in the Indian Police Service-who pioneered to humane method of Policing-marked by will power, devotion to duty, innovation, compassion and above all a never say die attitude. She had done miracles by being into the system not by merely criticizing it from outside. She is a field person, who think on her feet, but uses her heart sympathetically and her head judiciously. I think we all know how much it is difficult for person and then too for a woman to achieve something good in our Indian society where most of us are looked down upon as a liability whose husband has to be find out. It rather becomes more difficult for us if we choose the path of honesty and truthfulness. Because a country where honesty is only verbally practiced, implementing it will give you nothing but a delayed success and unwelcomed hardships which we mango people can't afford for too long. We can easily imagine the struggles of this only lady who had joined the service in an era of less empowered media and citizen awareness. I will not only quote her thoughts but few lines from her biography too. As Swami ji himself taught us "let noble thoughts come to us from every side."Now check it out what she has for you through my glasses.
Nothing is permanent. All you have is the present. The past is gone; the future is yet to come. You have to do the maximum here and now.
World has no time for losers.
Nothing came easily and every move had to be planned and worked for.
There are no holidays in self.
Some recreations have to be assiduously avoided during the period of struggle and foundation laying. As these will come in their own time.
Whatever are the temptations, or compulsions, let there be no clause for 'ifs' or 'buts' in principled living.
Life is an inclination, either it will go up or simply down.
Change is the law, growth is optional: choose wisely.
I am a master of my time, with options to be with myself or change gears to be with others. As of now I have chosen to embark upon another journey at my own speed, in which I am seeking more growth- in order to make a difference , in causes small or big.
I was determined that one I would do what was not expected from Indian women.
Her uncle would often make her wait for hours outside his office when she went collect her railway concession forms, but she was thankful that he had been considerate enough to have at least a washed out wooden bench there. It was endless waiting that made her promise herself if ever were in a position to give some something ,she would never ever make that person wait and her biography proves that she never did this..Trust me..!! -From her autobiography
I've specially mentioned this last paragraph because she has relieved me and ratified my gestures as I never follow this well accepted practice of making people wait for hours just for the sake of proving our worth (neither in professional nor in personal front) despite that I felt it many times for me. Why do people do this?? I am not getting into my mind, but my psychology teacher used to say that there must be some anthropological reasons behind every single practice of us and moreover it is not our fault to be born as Indian and slaved by Britishers which had been inculcated this limitless desire for power in the subconscious of our ancestors. Leave this hefty discussion at this very moment and move ahead with me .Okay then who is there ?? Ahem ! Ahem!
A a man of my dream although I know he will never marry me ;-( (Hey don't ever doubt my potential actually now it's too late for him ;-) jokes apart!! He is a man to be admired and worshipped and I wish him to be India's PM. (Just practising fundamental right from article 19 of Indian constitution.)
He's humble and innocent. Says a little, but means every word. Gets his work done, without shouting and screaming. He himself joins the queue to enter the lift as there is no separate 'reserved' entrance for him because he doesn't carry even a hint of pretension to indicate his position. You never find him fiddling with his cell phone and trying to sms, trying to respond e-mails and take the phone during the interviews. A bachelor and a very private man, who continues to live in a flat in Colaba, filled with books and dogs. Even his closest business aides know little about what he does in his free time. Those who know him well believe, he will indulge in all his pet interests, things he didn't have enough time for while helming the business. In our country where simple living is considered abnormal for the elite and breaking the law is deemed to be one's right, especially for the rich and famous. In such a country industrialists like him are in a minority. Outstanding among them, Ratan Tata sets a refreshing and praiseworthy example. You can learn a lot from his biography. Do read it if ever get time..!
Ups and downs in life are very important to keep us going, because a straight line even in an ECG means we are not alive.
I don't believe in taking right decision,I take decision and then make them right."
No one can destroy IRON; but its own rust can. Likewise no one can destroy us; but our own mindset can.
Take the stones people throw at you and use them to build a monument.
Don't stop here simply and move little faster with me because there are two more stars left for you.
Dream, dream and dream. Then translate your dreams into thoughts and then into action is his favorite mantra. His life itself is an exemplar of this philosophy – rising from a fisherman's village to ending up in the presidential palace and along the way launching a bunch of missiles and winning a few 'Padma' (and Bharat Ratna) awards. Luckily I have had the privilege to meet this extraordinary man once in my life. He had come as the chief guest in our convocation where few students were allowed as I hailed from a university which alone produces more than 60000 professionals every year.(Thanks to the digits on my mark sheet that had helped me first and the very last time too to get something different from the crowd).Lets throw some light upon his ideas for mankind.
Don't take rest after your first victory because if you fail in second, more lips are waiting to say that your first victory was just luck.
This is my belief: that through difficulties and problems God gives us the opportunity to grow. So when your hopes and dreams and goals are dashed, search among the wreckage, you may find a golden opportunity hidden in the ruins.
Suffering is the essence of success!!!
I think now only one more is there in the queue. He is completely unrelated with all above mentioned gems but I found him always there behind me as an expression for my unsaid emotion.
He was great artist who had given so much to us in his lifetime despite of facing some extremely tough personal tragedies. The artist, who was a constant companion of countless people in both their happy and sad times, comforting them with his soulful, heart-touching ghazals. The man, who lived like an invisible dear friend of millions of people in Love, all over the globe, from every age group starting from the adolescent years to the last. Not mentioning Jagjit Singh's role into my life will be injustice to this great soul. I used to be astonished how he knows about me so well?? A man who is still be the first to empathize with my world.One of my favorite statements from his interview.
Every morning is a new beginning, every album is a new album, every concert is a new test… to live in your past is a dangerous thing… whatever you've done, you can do something better, let's try for that.
That's about it for now but this story simply doesn't end here as this voyage towards self actualization is still on…After all, life is a journey (from womb to tomb) not a destination!!
Thanks for the patience and time.
Happy reading..!! :-)
PS: The above quotations have been compiled with the help of some websites and Autobiographies.


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Before church, I rounded the kiddos up to take a few pics of them dressed up. Thanks to Tim's mom for sending us the Easter attire. The girls loved their twirly dresses. :-) They didn't want to stand out in the chilly morning air for too long...so I only got a few of them together. The other pictures were taken in our doorway for goodness sakes. What started out as me just wanting to get one quick picture of each of them turned into Madden wanting to take a million with his Green Goblin character. Why not, right? :-)
We hope you had a wonderful Easter. We had such a beautiful day. Celebrating the resurrection of our savior with our church family as well as with our family. It gives us such joy to be able to share of God's love for us through his son, Jesus, with our children. To speak of his amazing love for us. To share with them the word of God & the truth that it is & the hope that it brings!
Deuteronomy 11:18-19 "Fix these words of mine in your hearts & minds; tie them as symbols on your hands & bind them on your foreheads. Teach them to your children, talking about them when you sit at home & when you walk along the road, when you lie doewn & when you get up."
Makenzie was good for a few pics...then she was off doing something more fun. :-)
Madden had some fun...
And then, there's Amara. :-)
Amara with Tiana from Princess & the Frog...
Our baby girl...isn't a baby anymore. :-(
Later in the afternoon, we went over to my sister Shannon's house for dinner with the family. We had such a great time. The food was delicious & it was so relaxing. Ahhhhh. :-)
Easter egg hunt with the cousins...


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Subject: I have found a CD that I think you would enjoy
|Gil Scott-Heron
Genres: Dance & Electronic, World Music, Jazz, Special Interest, Pop, Rap & Hip-Hop, R&B
1992 reissue from BMB of his 1981 album for Arista. Seven tracks, including 'Storm Music', 'Grandma's Hands' and 'Morning Thoughts'.
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Album Description
1992 reissue from BMB of his 1981 album for Arista. Seven tracks, including 'Storm Music', 'Grandma's Hands' and 'Morning Thoughts'.
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CD Reviews
Listen to B-Movie NOW (2006)
Nic | Paris, France | 05/17/2006
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Americans are living the consequences of what Mr. Scott-Heron warned of more than twenty years ago.
"Mandate, my ass"
"What has happened is that, in the last twenty years America has changed from a producer to a consumer"
"We used to be a producer ... and now we are consumers, finding it difficult to understand"
"Natural resources and minerals will change your world"
Unfortunately, most available versions of this song cut the extended outro, the survival mantra :
"this ain't really your life; it ain't nothing' but a movie""
"This ain't really life"
Michael Stack | North Chelmsford, MA USA | 02/16/2006
(3 out of 5 stars)
"Artists who stagnate never really do it for me-- there's something to be said for constant evolution, even if the sound evolved to is not something that I care for-- I find that over time it seeps in anyway and I find myself enjoying the material.
Case in point-- Gil Scott Heron's "Reflections". Scott-Heron's '70s work was rooted heavily rooted in jazz sounds-- things close to my heart. In the '80s, he seemed more heavily influenced by funk and Motown and his sound changed. When I first heard "Reflections", I hated it, but I respected evolution. Time has passed and suddenly the album is growing on me.
The album opens with a pair that fit this sound-- "Storm Music" is a bit lifeless, limping along in reggae rhythms and "Grandma's Hands" is seeped in funk and D.C. slap bass, although "Is That Jazz?" ends up being a revelation-- a modern update on jazz and '70s fusion, with a fantastic lyric about what makes jazz and a superb fretless bass solo from Robert Gordon. Add to this a gun control statement ("Gun") rooted deep in electric Motown sounds and a couple spoken word pieces ("Morning Thoughts" and the fantastic anti-Reagan statement, "'B' Movie") and you almost have a fine album. What's missing is a completely brilliant statement, and in this case it's made in a cover of Marvin Gaye's "Inner City Blues". As frank a discussion of inner city life as Scott-Heron could have written himself, one master performing another with a brilliant trumpet solo courtesy of Kenny Sheffield works out to be the centerpiece the album needs.
I don't quite think it reaches the heights that "From South Africa to South Carolina" does, but "Reflections" is a fine album, recommended for fans of Scott-Heron."
Progressive and poignant
Philip Ames | BROOKLYN, NY USA | 11/04/2005
(4 out of 5 stars)
"i first found this LP for a pound in a junk bin. i'd heard of Heron and figured that a pound was a safe bet. what i got was a hundred times the value of my money. and definitely worth the much higher price i now have to pay!
no other record of his connected with me as fully as this LP did, it is still a superb record and the CD version has done nothing to suck out any of the vinyl quality (thank God!). Grandma's Hands is one of the most evocative love songs i have ever heard and i still treasure it deeply.
my only disappointment was the song Morning Thoughts, which now just seems turgid and dull. Other than that, the songs are exceptional, the cover versions - I favor this version of Inner City Blues over any other (sorry, Mr Gaye) - are spot on. All in all, worth every cent that it's cost me to date."


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Bells ring and onlookers stare as the Princess Frog enters the palace, accompanied by young Prince Ivan. The Tsar himself has come out to greet them, and holds his arms out in amazement as this is the first time anyone has seen Ivan's new wife in her human form. At their father's bidding, the three sons of the tsar had shot an arrow high into the sky-whichever maiden found this arrow would be their wife. But Ivan's arrow landed next to a talking frog(left lower corner), who although proved her abilities in baking and sewing (by magically turning into her human form and employing magical help), would still make a very odd wife. At last the time has come for a great feast to celebrate the weddings, and the Frog Princess, otherwise known as Vasilisa the Wise, has arrived in a brilliant carriage. Ivan's two brothers and their wives stand to the right, and point and talk in amazement amongst themselves. How beautiful she is! How radiant she appears! How did this happen?!?
Kholuy master Sergey Zakharov uses a palette that is characteristic of his work. Warm paints dominate the scene, such as orange, yellow, and red, while darker and cooler paints are used to outline the external frame (consisting of the trees and landscape) inside the composition. This helps to draw the eye towards the main characters, and where the artist shows emphasis with the warm tones.
The layout of the painting is configured according to ancient icon painting methods that allow for spatial and temporal dimensions within a painting to be manipulated. This gives the artist freedom to work outside of the realm of perspective and fully exploit his artistic vision. The detailing is minute, precise, and skillfully makes this composition full of movement and action. He also uses a technique that exaggerates movements and elongates the proportions of the characters. This also contributes to the wonderful flow of the scene, and by doing this he is able to give each figure that he paints their own personality to further expand the diversity and dynamic of the painting.
Gold paint is used to aid in the adding of the detail. The use of gold helps to enhance the already bold palette and bring out their true highlights.
With the utmost delicacy he gives the composition just enough flair with the gold, making the composition truly a joy to behold. Gold is also used to decorate the exterior of the box. Zakharov's precision and ability to paint minute decoration is illustrated in the filigree that frames the scene and the filigree that wraps around the sides of the box. It is the perfect complement to the intricacy found in the painting. Its sumptuous rendering has a breathtaking amount of lines and the consistency in which is was composed is near perfect.
The box is constructed out of paper-mache. Black lacquer is used to paint the exterior and red lacquer is used to paint the interior of the box. The box has a hinge located above the composition and rests on four legs. The artist has written the title, Kholui, and his name under the composition. He has done the same on the interior of the lid, adding that this work is his own original creation and leaves a more decorative signature plus 2017.


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It's time for another Angband competition featuring Unangband. The Angband competition is part of the celebration of Angband and variants that is run every month by the maintainer of FAAngband, Nick. I've decided to mix things up a little by running two simultaneous competitions, with an overall winner chosen from all the entries.
Unlike most roguelike competitions, the Angband competition works on an honesty system - you play a shared save file and see how well you can do. To enter, download the save file from either this page, or this page and start playing. You can also follow the competition thread at angband.oook.cz but be aware most of the competition discussion occurs on the competition ladder entries - so be sure to upload your character on an ongoing basis, and rename the character before you upload if you want your earlier entries to be listed separately.
The competition is "Master vs Apprentice". Winner in least number of active turns (Act Turn on the character sheet) . If no winner, deepest unique killed, but Mirest receives a bonus of +5 levels depth when calculating this.
Mirest will need wands of spark to survive early on, Aspir scrolls of phase door. It is possible to do a conventional mage build with these once you survive the early game and start finding the dungeon books. But by then you may have grown to appreciate the strengths of each speciality by that time.
"Don't let the name fool you: The Unnamed Angband has no shortage of distinct flavour that sets it apart from any other variant. You adventure in Tolkien's world, through towns and wilderness and multiple dungeons, journeying from Bree towards greater and greater danger.Welcome to the old Unangband page, a variant of Angband which I developed for over ten years.
This variant roughly doubles the monster list, expands the class-based system of Angband with numerous possible specialties that let you fashion a unique character, offers a positively absurd variety of terrain (cages that trap you, floor chests that can store objects, burnable woods, chasms, bloodstains), and includes a bunch of major interface improvements, including better presentation of graphics and an experimental isometric view." - From angband.oook.cz.
The official Unangband home page is now at at https://dgolddragon28.github.io/Unangband/ which contains links to the latest releases and source code.
I would also like to thank the new Unangband maintainer DGoldDragon28 for taking over this variant. DGoldDragon28 had been developing a variant based on Unangband, and now has my blessing to continue with the main Unangband releases as well.
Thursday, 14 January 2010
Unangband Competition 81 & 82: Master vs Apprentice
Posted by Andrew Doull at 08:19
Labels: competition, unangband
2 comments:
- charlie said...
i have a question about the parth galen dungeon - is there a guardian at the bottom? i can't manage to find him/her...
- 27 January 2010 at 06:31
- Andrew Doull said...
IIRC no.
You can always check from the travel menu (when moving to Parth Galen from somewhere else).
Feel free to suggest someon...
- 27 January 2010 at 09:20
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