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Benefiting from over 30 years' experience, Fitzwilliam Institute's online Diploma in Public Relations and Internal Communications course features:
Definitions of Public Relations, PR's relationship with other Functions/Professions - Advertising, Marketing, etc., History and Development of Public Relations in Ireland and Globally, Professionalism and Industry Bodies PRII, PRCA, IPR.
Situation Analysis, Research, Objectives, Publics, Implementation, Budgets, Timetables, Evaluation, Planning and Managing a PR Campaign.
Corporate, Consumer, Business to Business, Voluntary Sector, Financial Public Relations, including Communicating Financial Performance, Public Relations during Mergers, Takeovers, Share Offerings, Shareholder Communications, Public Relations' role in the Annual Report Accounts.
Case Studies: Technology, Healthcare, Public Affairs, Business-to-Business, Construction, CSR, Consumer. Practical Activity: Develop a CSR proposal for a corporation.
The Principle Ethical Codes which underpin the practice of Public Relations, Legal Issues in Public Relations - Copyright, Libel, Slander, Freedom of Information.
Consultancy Structures, Client Relationships, Pitching for Business, Managing Client Accounts, In-house Departments, Relationships within the Organisation, Preparing an In-house Strategy, Relationship PR Consultants, Managing Staff, Entrepreneurship - Identifying gaps in the Market and Developing services to fill those gaps, launching a new Product/Service.
Public Relations' role in the Organisation - Internal Communication, Communicating Performance, Counselling the Organisation, Strategy, The role of the Public Relations Practitioner (both in-house and in Consultancies), Business Strategy and Operation.
Definitions and Typologies of Crisis, The Crisis Management Plan and Crisis Management Team, Communicating in a Crisis, The Aftermath of a Crisis, Reputation Management.
Why Organisations engage in Sponsorship, Using Sponsorship to Target particular Publics, What can be Sponsored? The fit between the Sponsor and the Sponsored, The Sponsorship Proposal, How Sponsorships fits in to wider Public Relations Campaigns, Evaluating Sponsorships, Why Organisations Engage in Community Relations, The Range of CR Activities.
Interest Groups and Lobbying, How to Influence Public Policy, Planning and Managing Lobbying Campaigns, The role of Coalitions, Public Affairs - Integrating Lobbying and Media Campaigns, Involving the Public in Lobbying Campaigns.
Who to target, How to target PR towards your chosen audience.
How to Segment Audiences, Serving the Client/Organising and serving the Media, The 'Readership Profile', Media lists, How to watch Media with the public, The role of Press Releases in public Relations, Creating angles in Press Releases, Identifying the news angle in a story, The role of Photography, The ethics of Media Relations, Evaluating Media Relations, Media Monitoring.
Press Related Events, Planning Press Events, Creating a Press Kit.
Introduction to Media Writing, Grammar, Pre-writing, Writing, Re-writing. Writing Feature Articles: Structure, Headlines, Awareness of Readership, Use of Language, Writing News Articles, and Awareness of the Journalist's agenda; writing for the Internet.
Date, Headline, Structure, Wording, Contact Details, Note to Editor, Structuring a Press Release - The Inverted Pyramid Model, The Appropriate use of language for Press Releases, As part of the teaching of this section, students will also cover issues such as, being able to provide reasoning for the Press Release Content, Distribution Lists, additional information to be added for a Press Pack, a description of a Photographic idea and caption, Writing styles for different Media and Publics, Analysing a number of Press Releases, and the Media Coverage generated.
Design for Print Media, Style Guides, Writing for the Press, News Writing Skills, Interview Skills, News Releases, and Feature Articles.
Writing for Radio, Writing for Television.
Definitions, Historical Development, Market Research and Information, Products, Branding, Marketing Communications, Marketing Segmentation, Marketing Management and Organisation, The role of Public Relations in Marketing Management.
Definitions, Historical Development, the Advertising Industry and Professional Bodies, Codes of Practice, Advertising Agencies, Selecting an Agency and working with it, Advertising Campaign Planning and Management, Advertising Media, Types of Advertisements - Magazines, Newspapers, Posters, Billboards, Ambient Advertising, The relationship between Advertising and Public Relations.
The Social Media Landscape
Blogs, Microblogs, Chatrooms, Delicious, Email, Flickr, Twitter, Instant messaging, Message Boards, Mobile Internet , New Media Releases, Online Conferencing, Online Surveys, Pay per click, Podcasts, RSS, Search Engines, SEO, Social Networking Service Sites, Video Sharing, Virtual worlds, VoIP, Wiki and Widgets.
The Internet as a Media
Commercial Implications of the Internet, Social Interaction with the Internet, Web 2,0 and its Implications, Internet Convergence, the Network Effect, Internet Information Exchange, Internet Audience Size and Exposure, Internet Culture and Communication, Transparency and the Internet.
Online PR building blocks
Online Communications Platforms, Online Communication Channels, Online Communication Mediums, Interactivity and Application of Communication Channels, Policy, Optimisation, Monitoring and Evaluation of Online Communications Channels, Online Communications Channels Planning and Implementation.
Social Media and PR strategy
Local versus Global Communication, Landscaping Platforms, Channels and context, Online PR Organisational Analysis and Segmentation, Developing Online PR Strategies, Online PR Tactics and SEO considerations, Online PR Planning, Managing Online PR Risk and Opportunities.
Development of Corporate Strategy and How it Operates, Organisational structure Set up, Systems Theory and its Impact, Understanding Chaos and Complexity Theories, Employee Motivation Techniques and Human Relations Strategy, Impact and Effect of Internal Communications on Culture, Impact and Effect of Organisational Culture on Communication and Engagement.
Understanding the Communication Process, Effective Communication and Engagement Strategies, Identifying Key Internal Communicator issues, Setting correct Internal Communications Strategies, Strategic Management Principles and Themes of Internal Communication.
Identifying Internal Communications Culture, Effective Employee Engagement Techniques and Assessing Organisational Success, Assessment of Internal Communication Effectiveness of an Organisation, Internal Communications Audit Methods, Conducting and Assessing Employee Surveys, Planning and implementing an audit.
Managing Effective Internal Communication Strategies, Internal Communications Research Management, Planning and Strategizing Line Management Input to the Process , Assessment, Measuring, Monitoring and Evaluation of Internal Communications.
Introduction to Social Media and Social Networks, Social Media Explained, Social Media Marketing Campaigns: Target Audiences and Objectives, Social Networking Presence and Strategy, Campaign Implementation, Social Media Metrics, Facebook: The Facebook Environment, Setting Up an Account, Guidelines, Facebook for Business, Twitter: Introduction, Linking Twitter to other Social media Websites, Twitter and Marketing, YouTube, YouTube and Marketing, LinkedIn: Managing an Account, Marketing through LinkedIn. Practical Activity: Social Media Marketing Strategy.
Internal communicators as organisational leaders, Internal Communications Networking Process, Negotiation in the Internal Communications mix, Effective Decision Making in Internal Communications, Developing a usable Internal Communications Personal Development Plan.
Efficient and Effective Change management Models, Leading and Effecting Management Change through Communication and Engagement, Migrating to Change Management Involvement and Engagement scenarios, Identification and Analysis of the types of Organizational Culture in terms of their Resistance and Impacts, Monitoring impassive and negativity towards change, Developing Effective Communications and Engagement Strategies supporting and accelerating change, Problem Solving in the Change Management Landscape.
The Business Plan, Creating a Business Plan, Executive Summary, the Business Opportunity, Marketing & Sales Strategy, Management Team & Personnel, Operations, Financial Forecasts, Presentation, Legalities, Choosing a Legal Structure, Taxes, Records and Returns, Setting Up, the Workplace, Office Equipment, Stationary Supplies, Insurance, Financing Your Business, Accounting Software, Becoming an Employer, Marketing Strategy, Knowing Your Competitors, Promotional Tools.
Preparation, Content and Structure, Delivery and Visual Aids, Management of Locations and Audiences.
The course was very impressive, even for the more mature students, especially the PR in Practice and Stakeholder management sections. It certainly enhances the scope of your career positioning and overall communications understanding.
I would recommend it for people in all aspects of Communications and Public Relations as a beneficial part of professional development. - Suzanne Angley, Luas Cross City
The PR and Event Management Course was a great decision for me. My main job is not in PR or Event Management but this is something I had an interest in and has helped me within my own job where I am involved in sports and Social Events and outside work hugely by the skill sets which I picked up while working on my PR Campaign I've applied to other areas of my life outside. PR people are experts in communication and through the course you learn from your teachers about presentation skills and gain a broader knowledge in areas such as politics and real life examples of PR in action. I recommended this course to my friend who is attending the evening classes this year and enjoying it also. - Aoife Murphy, Irish Life
On successful completion of this course you will receive a Professional Diploma qualification that is certified and awarded by the ICM (Institute of Commercial Management).
The Institute of Commercial Management was founded in 1979 and is one of the leading Professional Examination and Certification Bodies in the world today. Fitzwilliam Institute have developed and provided practical skills training courses in liaison with the Institute of Commercial Management qualifications and certifications framework for over 25 years. The Institute of Commercial Management certifications and continual professional development training awards are recognised by leading industries, bodies and professions.
Duration: You will have full access to online resources and subject expert support for 6 months. However, you can complete the course in as little as 3 - 4 months, by dedicating 6-8 hours of study per week.
Course Fees: 995.00 EUR
To secure your place on the course the full fee is required. All fees must be paid in full before the course begins. Please note, the full course fees are inclusive of all course materials and certification costs.
Enrolment intake is strictly limited on this course. Early application is advised. Places are allocated on a first come first served basis.
We want to make education easy and enjoyable for you. At Fitzwilliam Institute, we offer a range of finance options to suit your needs.
You can buy now and pay later with humm - humm provides a simple application process, simple terms and conditions, up to 36 monthly payments. With low-interest rates.
Fitzwilliam Institute closes on Bank Holidays and for a number of days at Christmas and New Year. Fitzwilliam Institute reserves the right to postpone, cancel or alter courses without notice or to change any of the details in this brochure. Fees are not refundable unless the course is cancelled by Fitzwilliam Institute. Distance Learning courses are provided by Fitzwilliam Institute BGLS Ltd.
Year on year, we have the pleasure of training students from top Ireland and international companies. See where our most recent students come from and find out what they have to say.


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Last June, my aunt and I went on a trip to Hong Kong. We flew from Butuan to Manila on June 12. Our flight to Hong Kong was on June 13 around 8AM. We have the afternoon of June 12 to spare. What better way to spend than to visit Luneta. It was Independence day after all.
Luneta is the park in Manila where a monument of the Philippine's national hero, Jose Rizal, stands. Almost every town in the Philippines has a Rizal park. Luneta is the mother of all Rizal parks. Luneta was formerly known as Bagumbayan. It is where Jose Rizal was executed by the Spaniards through firing squad.
I have never been to Luneta. My mother used to tell as a child that the Jose Rizal monument has guards. I remember my mother saying, "Why do they have to guard him when he is already dead? It was only just a statue. It is not like they (the Spaniards) can kill him again." I was amused at her story. I was doing my grade one project on heroes when she told me this. (Papa recorded our conversations on a cassette tape. One day I will convert it to digital format. ) My father, on the other hand, had some riddle in Bisaya (or Ilonggo?) referring to Rizal: "Hantungtung habato, hapilit ha posporo, ha uwanan ha initan, dili hahilantan". Roughly translated: ' On top of the rock, glued on the match. Rain or shine, he will never get sick."
Because our flight is on 8am the next day, I already told my aunt beforehand that we are going to sleep at the airport. She needed no convincing because my cousin's house is in Fairview and my aunt knew how far is that place from NAIA Terminal 3. While I was planning for the trip, my only problem is where to leave of our luggage. I can carry my backpack but I do not think my 65-year-old aunt would want to carry her bag while we stroll Luneta. Good thing I came across an article about Luggage & More. It is a luggage storage facility in NAIA terminal 3. For P150, you can leave your small bag for 3 hours; P300 for more than 3 hours up to a day. Large bags have different rates . The facility is tucked in the right wing of the arrival area. Ask an airport personnel for directions. Luggage & More opens at 6am and closes at 11pm. If you have a plane to catch early in the morning and you leave your bags there, make sure to pick them up before they close.
NAIA Loop and LRT
The commuter in me already search the cheapest way to reach Luneta. The airport taxi's flag down rate is P70. So, that was not an option for the budget travelers like us. Good thing there is the NAIA Loop. It plies from NAIA3 to Pasay Rotunda for P20 per person. Waiting time is longer though. I think we stood in line for 30 minutes. My aunt had some crackers and candies so the wait did not seem long. Besides, we were busy chatting. It was a short trip to Pasay Rotunda. All I knew was that we passed Baclaran area. NAIA loop dropped us at the terminal near Taft MRT station. There is a McDonald's and Chowking in that area so we picked the latter for lunch. I already researched beforehand the nearest LRT station to Luneta which is the UN Ave station. I already checked google maps and saw that I only need to cross a few streets to get to Luneta.
The Taft MRT station connects to the LRT station. We just had to follow the signs. The fare was P15 per person. When added, our fare from NAIA3 to Luneta was P70 -a steal considering the flag down rate for an airport taxi was P70. I am giving myself a virtual pat on the back.
One probinsiyana (from the province) booboo though: A man standing beside me on the LRT asked me for direction. Uh-oh. I was not prepared how to react. I knew he was from the province like me. He spoke to me in Tagalog with a hint of Bisaya (like me!). Plus, he was carrying a luggage. He asked, while we were approaching the Gil Puyat Station, "Dito ba Buendia?" (Is this Buendia?) . I stared at my ticket. There is no Buendia in the route. So I answered, "Gil Puyat, po". The man did not get off on that station but he quickly realized his mistake and hurriedly left the train when we reach the next station- before I can say sorry. I should have said, "I don't know" so he can ask other passengers. Gil Puyat Avenue is formerly named Buendia Avenue. Oops.
The map was right. Luneta was a few steps away from the LRT station. Since it was Independence Day and a Sunday, there were a lot of people in the park. I see families spreading a mat and having a picnic in the park. Mental note: I should do that one in my lifetime.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines showed their wares (hehe power?). I saw people posing for a picture holding some kind of weapon. There were long lines of kids waiting for their free ride in an armored personnel carrier. Cameras clicked on people in different poses in different areas of the military tank. Some posed with the soldiers. If not for the number of people, I would have had my picture taken there, too.
What to see in Luneta?
There is the relief map of the Philippines commissioned by Ferdinand Marcos.
There is a very imposing statue of Lapu-Lapu (the Filipino who killed Magellan in Mactan). While I was looking at the statue, I was thinking, "Lapu-lapu or Dagohoy?" I know. My ignorance showed. I got confused why Lapu-lapu was given a prominent place in the park. When you think about it, Lapu-Lapu is the first Philippine hero. He fought against Spanish invasion. (Dagohoy led the longest revolt against the Spaniards.) He deserved to be immortalized in stone! ( or is that bronze?)
There are beautiful, old buildings near the park. The National Museum is near the park. This is the Department of Tourism Building.
The highlight of being in Luneta is to visit the Rizal Monument. FAIL! My senior citizen companion got tired of all the walking. The weather was warm and sunny. It would have been a perfect time for strolling. There are trees for shade. I even wanted to go Intramuros. As we walked towards the road that will lead to Intramuros, my aunt hesitated. The roads were empty and she was afraid we will get mugged or something. I was telling her, " Why should we be afraid? This is the Philippines. Our country. You should be afraid tomorrow. We're going to Hong Kong." It has been my wish to visit Intramuros but my travel companions before were not as thrilled as I was in visiting there. Neither was my aunt. Hmp! Maybe I should start traveling alone.
Not yet Rizal, not yet. I will visit you one day.
The Mall of Asia
Because of the heat, my aunt wanted to go the nearest mall. After a train and a jeepney ride, we arrived at the Mall of Asia. I told her we should watch a movie. We checked what is showing and none caught her fancy. I wanted to try any 3-D movie but she doesn't. So, we just roam around the mall and passed by an open area. I was curious so we checked it out. It is the Manila bay!
I was thinking, "This is a good time to experience the sunset!" I wanted to wait for it but my aunt was too tired and wanted to sit down. She wanted to be in an air-conditioned area.
We were sitting on a bench where people gathered. My aunt dozed off while I watched people go about their business. There was Filipino music in the background so I sang along to the ones I knew. When she woke up, we decide to find a place to eat. As we went near to an entertainment area where the music came from, we found out there was a free concert featuring Kuh Ledesma. We looked for a good vantage point and enjoyed the free concert. Henry Sy was there. He was on his wheelchair looking down from the second floor. I did not see his face but I saw the wheelchair as Kuh acknowledged his presence. It did not look like he had many bodyguards. He was watching like regular people.
After we had dinner at Jollibee (Filipino fastfood chain for Independence day), we rode the jeep to the MRT station. I made a mistake of using the pedestrian walkway instead of the LRT station to cross the busy EDSA traffic. It was scary. We were on this metal platform traversing over a very busy highway (EDSA). We could see vehicles in moving fast underneath us. I could feel the walkway vibrating as I took a step. I kept praying that the walkway will not collapse. Thankfully, we reached the NAIA Loop station in one piece.
Another booboo: I thought the drop off point of the bus in the airport is the same place where we took the bus. While quite a number of people got off in the middle of the arrival area where the bus stopped, we stayed on our seats thinking we should stop near the area where we took our exit because the Luggage&More is near that area. There would be less walking for the senior citizen. I saw the confused look of the driver when I asked to be dropped there. As we reach the door where we exited, I realized my mistake. There is only one entrance. The door we used to exit was for exit only. We walked (long walk) again towards the only entrance (where the bus stopped first).
We gathered our luggage and found a good spot were we could spend the night. I thought sleeping at the airport was my novel idea. Nope, there were a lot of people who found a good spot for themselves. A lot of them were sleeping soundly already.

subset: commoncrawl


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- 4 ounces Baker's German Sweet Chocolate
- 1/3 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 (8 ounce) Cool Whip topping, thawed
- 1 graham cracker or chocolate pie crust
I've had photos on my computer that date back to September that I wanted to share with you all and never did. Then Keeley from My Life On A Plate blogged a bunch of photos that inspired me to so the same. No food or recipes today just some of my favorite photos. My friend Lori from LFE Photography took the photos of Hayden when he was just 2 weeks old and our holiday pictures. The rest of them I took but I've put my logo on all of them. Hope you enjoy!
These are photos of Hayden when he was just 2 1/2 weeks old and still wearing newborn size clothes. I look back at these from time to time and I can't believe how small and tiny he was and how much he's changed!
I think this one wound up on Pinterest. My friend shared it on her FB page and someone pinned it. I didn't know about it until my sister saw it and told me about it.
This personalized wooden block was given to Hayden by Allie of Eat At Allie's. It was one of my favorite things he received because it was made especially for him with his birth information on it and because she honored Hayden's older angel brothers on it. It will be treasured for a lifetime. You can purchase your own from Craft-E-Family. Thank you Allie so much!
Fast forward to the first of December when Hayden was just 3 months old. I knit this blanket a few years ago and now he gets to use it. At this age he was still learning to hold his head up.
I did not knit this but a dear friend of mine did. It's a sleep sack and matching hat. I took a picture of him using it to send to her and my mom loved it so much that she submitted it in the Gerber cutest baby contest. haha!
These next few photos are from our holiday photo shoot. These were so much fun!
That is one good looking Poppa holding his son.
Of course Autumn took part in it too.
Sleepy and ready for this photo shoot to be over!
This was a happy coincidence- this heart was already carved into the tree- we did not photoshop it into the pictures. I also want to point out the beautiful green blanket my friend Kristi of Not What I Expected made for him. Thank you Kristi!
Mr. H is a huge fan of Christmas and "exterior illumination". Once Thanksgiving is over, he turns into Clark Griswold. He wanted me to share this photo of his hard work. Thank you honey for making our Christmas brighter.
And these are salt dough ornaments that I made in February of Hayden's hand and foot. I hoped to have them made in time to put on the tree but it just didn't happen. They'll look great on the tree next year though :-)
My beautiful Valentine!
Hayden was born with enlarged kidneys. They're also filled with fluid and shouldn't be. This can lead to urinary tract infections but so far he's been perfectly fine and infection free. We've taken him to a few doctor appointments and ultrasounds just to keep an eye on them. This past Tuesday he went for a follow-up appointment and we stopped by The Ronald McDonald house which is next door to the pediatric urologist. Here is a side by side comparison of Hayden with Ronald. He's filling out that car seat very well.
And lastly, this is the sunset from our backyard last night on Mr. H's birthday. It was 92 degrees in February! This day last year it was snowing. That's just how unpredictable Texas weather is.
That's all for now. Thanks for letting me play catch up! Have a great weekend and thanks for stopping by!
I've been on a pie kick lately and I'm not sure why. Maybe because they're so versatile and can be sweet or savory, and can be served at any meal. Or maybe it's because they can be the meal and the dessert? I'm not sure, but I've been going through my cookbooks and bookmarking pies left and right. I hope you don't get tired of them because it seems that 2012 is the year of the pie. Move over layer cake! Did I just say that?
This month The Cake Slice Bakers chose to make Boston Cream Pie. I realize it's not actually a pie, but a cake, but who cares when you have vanilla cake sandwiched with thick pastry cream and topped with velvety chocolate ganache? I almost made this for my Pie Party, but I ran out of time so I made it for our Super Bowl get together. Classy right? Picture it- Spicy Buffalo Wings, Chips and Queso, Baked Corndogs, Veggies with Dip, Sausage and Pepperoni Pizza Puffs and Boston Cream Pie on a Pedestal. haha! It's a little contradictory but it's never a bad time to eat cake. Or pie. Which is it?
This cake is not hard to make, but you have to plan ahead when making it. It's a little laborious and time consuming, but it's rather simple as long as you read and follow the directions. Just be sure to make the custard ahead of time and have it well chilled so when you're ready to assemble this cake you're not having to wait on the filling. Now I'd love to say that this cake was a dream come true but to be honest I thought the actually sponge cake was a little dry. The filling and the topping were great though and I'd make those components again but I'd try a different recipe for the cake. I thought it dried out because I made it the night before but some of the other Cake Slice Bakers had the same issue. Keep that in mind if you give this recipe a try. If nothing else you'll end up with a very pretty dessert. And who doesn't love pretty?
Boston Cream Pie adapted from The Cake Book
Printer Friendly VersionFor The Vanilla Custard Filling:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the yolks, sugar and the cornstarch, set aside.
In a medium saucepan, bring the milk to a gentle boil. Remove the pan from the heat and whisk about 1/3 cup of the hot milk into the yolk mixture. Return the entire mixture to the saucepan, place over medium-high heat, and bring to a boil, whisking constantly, for 1 minute. Remove the pan from the heat, scrape the bottom of the pan with a spatula, and whisk until smooth. Whisk in the butter until melted.
Immediately strain the custard through a fine-mesh sieve into a medium bowl. Whisk in the vanilla extract. Cover the surface of the custard with plastic wrap, and let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for two hours, or until well chilled.
Just before assembling the cake, transfer the custard filling to the bowl of an electric mixer. Add 1/4 cup heavy cream and using the whisk attachment, beat the mixture at high speed until it is light and forms soft peaks, about 1 minute.
For The Hot Milk Sponge Cake:Position a rack in the center on the oven and preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Grease the bottom and sides of a 9-inch cake pan. Dust pan with flour.
Sift together the cake flour, baking powder, and salt two times. Set aside.
In a small saucepan, combine the milk and butter and heat over medium heat just until the butter is melted. Remove the pan from the heat and set aside.
In a bowl of an electric mixer, using the whisk attachment, beat the eggs at high speed until blended, about 1 minute. Gradually add the sugar and vanilla extract and beat until pale and tripled in volume, about 6 minutes.
Sift one-third of the flour mixture over the egg mixture and gently fold it in with a rubber spatula. Repeat with the remaining flour mixture in two more additions.
Reheat the milk mixture to just under a boil. Add it all at once to the egg mixture and gently fold it in. Scrape the batter into the prepared pan.
Bake the cake for 20-25 minutes, until it springs back when lightly touched and a cake tester inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool the cake in the pan on a wire rack for 10 minutes.
Run a paring knife around the edge of the pan and invert the cake onto the wire rack. Reinvert the cake, so that it is right side up.
For The Chocolate Glaze:
In a small saucepan, bring the cream to a boil. Remove from the heat and add the chocolate to the pan. Stir until the chocolate is completely melted and the glaze is smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract. Transfer the glaze to a small bowl. Cover the surface of the glaze with a piece of plastic wrap and let cool for about 10 minutes before using.
Assemble The Cake: Using a long serrated knife, cut the cake horizontally in half to make 2 layers.
Save the smooth bottom layer for the top of the cake, and place the remaining cake layer cut side up on a serving plate. Scrape the filling onto the layer and, using a small offset metal spatula, spread it into an even layer. Top with the other cake layer, cut side down.
Glaze The Cake: Pour the warm glaze over the top of the cake, allowing some of it to drizzle down the sides. Serve the cake immediately, or refrigerate.
Store in the refrigerator in a covered container for up to a day. Bring to room temperature before serving.
I've been getting emails and comments asking where Hayden is. You guys are funny! Here he is with his daddy looking at himself in the mirror. He looks at himself, smirks at the good looking boy staring back at him then starts giggling. When he's feeling grumpy, this cheers him up everytime. Maybe he's laughing at his momma, because I like to sing to Michael Jackson's "Man In The Mirror" to him when he does this, except I sing "I'm looking at the boy in the mirror". :-) I wish you all could just hear his laugh. It's the best sound in the world.
Today my older brother, Joe, turns 31. Happy Birthday Bro! He likes to call me "sis" so today on this blog (even though he doesn't read it) I get to call him Bro. :-) My brother drives me crazy. He's loud, talks too much, asks waaay too many questions (especially while watching movies) and is very opinionated, even about stuff he has no experience in. Here's an example of that: He gives me baby advice left and right though he has no kids nor has he ever raised any. He says babies have sunken in skulls because their mommas pull the pacifier out of their babies mouths too fast, creating a suction that in turn sucks that "soft spot" in and they only way to push it back out is to press on the roof of the babies' mouth with your thumb. One night he was inspecting Hayden's head, looked it up and down from different angles, then said, while nodding, "he's got a good head". I don't know where he gets his information but he means well and it makes us laugh because he's so serious about it. He's a pain in my rear but I wouldn't trade him in for any other. He's a giver, a lover, very protective of his loved ones and will give anyone the shirt off his back, or in this case, the hat off his head.
My brother was held back in school in the first grade, so even though he's a year older we have always been in the same grade together. We had the same teachers, the same friends, the same homework- you get the picture. We've always been close because we couldn't get away from eachother. haha! When we walked home from school, he would walk behind me and light matches and throw them at my feet. It used to scare me, but he thought it was funny. That was just him being an older brother. We also used to play with sling shots in the back yard and play "classic" Nintendo together conquering level after level. Our game of choice was "Contra" and one of the codes to boost your super power was "up, up, down , down, left, right, left, right, B, A". I don't know why I still remember that, but I do.
Another brother/sister moment, I remember was when we made the neighborhood go dark. My brother had a pellet gun and my grandparents lived three houses in from the corner. On the corner and across the street was a street lamp. He and I parked out on the front porch, pumping up his Wal-Mart purchase and aiming at the street lamp. Peering together through the scope, we decided on a particular spot we would aim at. He took several shots, then it was my turn, then back to him. I don't think we actually knew what we were doing, we were just shooting because we had nothing else to do and it was rebellious. Then all of a sudden, "POP", out went the light! We both looked at eachother in shock then ran inside playing innocent. Yeah, we were careless, but we were kids and the light was fixed a couple days later.
These days, I don't get to see my brother as often. He's a trucker and lives across the state, but when he makes a run into town he makes time to spend time with his family. He was in town this past weekend. He spent most of his time eating gummy candy and Pop Rocks and watching cartoons on the Internet. That's his thing. He can eat sugar straight out of the jar, and eats candy and chugs sodas ALL day long, but he doesn't like glaze or frosting on cakes, because they're "too sweet". He's a contradiction, but that's who he is. And he loves peanut butter. For his birthday treat, I decided to make him peanut butter marbled brownies even though he requested rock candy. I'm not a big fan of PB and chocolate but he loves it. As I went to cut them into squares, they fell apart and onto the counter. I was bummed with their appearance because they weren't as perfect as I wanted them to be, but that's the way it goes sometimes. I kept one to take pictures of and sent the rest home with him. Mr. H and I shared it together with a scoop of Tin Roof Ice Cream and chocolate sauce. It was fudgy and amazing!
Peanut Butter Marbled Brownies adapted from Allrecipes
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For The Peanut Butter Layer:
For The Chocolate Layer:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease one 9x13 inch baking pan.
In a medium bowl, beat cream cheese, peanut butter, 1/4 cup white sugar, 1 egg, and milk until smooth. Set aside.
In a large bowl, mix together melted butter, 2 cups white sugar, and vanilla. Mix in the remaining 3 eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Combine flour, cocoa, baking powder, and salt; mix into the batter.
Remove 1/2 cup of the chocolate batter and stir 1 Tablespoon of milk into it to thin it out slightly; set aside. Stir the chocolate/peanut butter chips into the remaining batter.
Spread the chocolate chip batter into the prepared pan. Spread the peanut butter filling over the top. Drop the reserved chocolate batter by teaspoonful over the filling. Using a knife, gently swirl through the top layers for a marbled effect.
Bake in preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a wooden toothpick inserted near the center comes out almost clean. Cool completely, then cut into bars.
We love you!
We don't do much to celebrate Valentine's Day in the Lick The Bowl Household. When Mr. H and I first got together I had high expectations for this holiday, it is the day of love after all. I expected dinner out, a romantic movie at the theater, red flowers, puffy hearts, chocolate and all that other cuddly crap! Before you start rolling your eyes at me I have to mention that we started dating in high school and I didn't know any better. haha! It only took me one year together to realize that the holiday is way overrated.
We started dating in March of 1999, so he was off the hook that year, but in 2000, I expected the works and I was sadly disappointed. I was stubborn- heck, I still am- but as the man in the relationship I thought he needed to make the reservations for dinner WITHOUT me having to tell him. He didn't and I refused to make them myself so needless to say, we drove around town for a couple hours trying to get into any restaurant without having to wait for 3 hours for a table. A few hours later, we were both grumpy and hungry and decided to just go to our favorite Tex-Mex joint and enjoyed a fajita dinner and dessert for 2 for less than $20! I realized then that it didn't matter where we ate, whether or not I got chocolate truffles or long stemmed roses. It mattered that we were together.
I was a brat, I admit it, but I like to think that I've more than made up for it over the years. Now on Valentine's Day, I bake up a favorite chocolate dessert or a steak and potatoes dinner for the man I love. We are both happy to stay in and eat dinner in our lounge clothes in front of the television watching our usual DVR'd sitcoms. This year will be no different, though we have a new little Valentine to spend the evening with- he will be having milk.
This cake combines two of Mr. H's favorite things- chocolate cake and cinnamon sugar. They happen to be my favorites too. The vegan cake was light and moist, tender and quite flavorful. It was even simple enough that little Hayden helped me whip it up for his Poppa. My family loved this cake too. There was one large slice left and we all hovered around the pan with forks in hand and devoured it. I hope you'll enjoy it too.
Cinnamon Sugar Cocoa Cake adapted from Hawaii's Best Local Desserts via Food Librarian
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a 9 x 13 pan and set aside. Combine topping ingredients in a small bowl and set aside.
Sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa, baking soda and salt into a large bowl. Whisk to combine.
Add oil, vinegar, vanilla and coffee or water to the bowl. Stir together with a whisk - but be sure you don't overbeat. (Do not make this in a KitchenAid mixer or electric mixer - a fork or whisk are just fine. You'll see bubbles because of the reaction of the baking soda and vinegar.)
When combined, immediately pour into the 9 x 13 pan. Evenly sprinkle with cinnamon and sugar topping.
Bake until toothpick comes out clean, about 30-35 minutes. Let cool and cut into squares.
Here's the Banana Cream Pie you've all been waiting for. I had to save the best for last! I think of all the pies I made for my Pie Party, this was my favorite. Though the key lime pie was a very close second. I love banana pudding, though I didn't always and I'll tell you why. I don't like artificial banana flavoring and as a kid when we had banana pudding, it was made with instant banana flavored pudding, not vanilla. I thought that was how banana pudding was supposed to be. I liked the bananas and the vanilla wafers, but not the icky banana flavored pudding.
It wasn't until I was an adult that I realized what banana pudding could/should be. For years I made Paula Deen's "Not Yo Mama's Banana Pudding" until I started making my own custard. I like Paula's recipe, but when I eat it now I can taste all the chemicals and artificial flavors in the boxed pudding and Cool Whip. Now I don't eat banana pudding often, but when I do, I have to do it right and making it in pie form is right up my alley. I also made a banana pudding pie from Southern Living that was quite amazing. They're both similar in flavor, but this one was easier to make.
I made the crust and the filling the night before I needed it, that way on the day of, all I had to do was assemble it and make the fresh whipped cream. The custard was interesting in that all the ingredients go into the pot at once. You just stir, and stir and stir and just when you think it's never going to thicken- wham! It gets super thick. My pudding actually got a little too thick. I'm not sure if it's because of the recipe or because I overcooked it, but I just thinned it out the chilled pudding with a little milk before I assembled the pie. The end result was creamy, sweet and addicting pie. I was sad when it was all gone. My stepdad has even offered to pay me to make another one. Will do!
Banana Cream Pie from Simply Suppers
For The Crust:
For The Filling:
For The Topping:
Preheat oven to 325 degrees F.
To Make The Crust: In a food processor, finely grind the cookies. Add the sugar and pulse until combined. Slowly add the butter and pulse until well incorporated and moist clumps form. Transfer to a 9-inch pie pan. Press the crust evenly into the bottom and up the sides. Bake until set, about 8-10 minutes. Cool completely on a wire rack.
To Make The Filling: In a medium saucepan, combine the cream, cornstarch, salt, egg yolks, sugar and vanilla. Over medium-low heat, cook, whisking continuously, until mixture thickens, about 10 minutes. Remove from the heat and transfer to a large mixing bowl. Place plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the pudding and place in the refrigerator and cool completely, at least two hours or overnight.
Assembly: Spoon half the cooled pudding evenly over the bottom of the crust. (My pudding was very thick, so I thinned it out slightly with a little milk prior to assembling the pie). Peel the bananas and cut into 1/4-inch thick slices. Create a layer of banana slices, reserving some for garnish. Spoon the remaining pudding evenly over the bananas. Place the pie in the refrigerator to set while making the whipped cream topping.
To Make the Topping: In the large bowl, place the cream, sugar, and vanilla. Beat with an electric mixer until soft peaks form (You want the cream stiff enough to hold it's shape but not over whipped or it will curdle.) Spoon or use a pastry bag to pipe the whipped cream evenly over the pie filling. Chill the pie until set, at least 4 hours or overnight. Before serving garnish with extra vanilla wafers or bananas, if desired.


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"The Importance Of Rotator Cuff Exercises In Your Bench Press Training"
Another article about the bench press you ask? What do you expect you are visiting a site named Critical Bench. Whether you agree or not the barbell bench press is one of the most highly regarded weight room exercises period. Have you heard this conversation in the gym lately?
"So how much weight can you use for preacher curls?" "I'm moving some heavy weight, how much can you use for kickbacks?" "I've been struggling on those and I have a kickback meet coming up in a few months!"
I'll take a wild guess and say this conversation has never and will never take place. The truth is the vast majority of individuals measure their strength and even their manhood based on how much they can bench. You could be at the gym, or even at a bar having a beer but when the topic of working out comes up people are almost certain to ask the infamous question, "How much you bench?" If you don't care how strong you are then I don't know why you're lifting weights anyway. The bench press is a benchmark of your strength plain and simple.
Back to the conversation we didn't hear at the gym. What our friends above should have been asking each other isn't how much weight they use when doing kickbacks but rather how much weight they use when they're performing a lower pulley external rotation exercise. Did I lose you there? I know, I know we declared the bench press is the true measure of our strength not all these isolation and stabilizer exercises right?
This is true, but have you ever heard the expression, you're only as strong as your weakest link? When you bench press there are four tiny muscles that play a major role in whether your bench press takes off or if you're going to suffer from a bench press blowout. Build these muscles up and you can dramatically decrease the chance of blowing out your shoulder. If you're benching heavy weight and not paying attention to these muscles you run the risk of muscular imbalances, shoulder pain, and getting stuck in a serious plateau.
When bench pressing it essential to have stability and strength in the shoulder. The four relatively small muscles predominantly responsible for stabilizing the shoulder - teres minor, infraspinatous, supraspinatous and sucscapularous - are known collectively as the 'rotator cuff'. When these muscles contract they pull on the rotator cuff tendon, causing the shoulder to rotate. While bench pressing you may experience some rotator or shoulder pain, during part of the movement. This is likely due to weak muscles in this area. Weak muscles are often but not always the cause of rotator cuff impingement syndrome and associated rotator cuff tears. If you have the rotator cuff strength of a little girl, your body has no choice but to limit the amount of weight you can stabilize and move to prevent injury. It's not uncommon to see an individual break through a bench press sticking point simply by incorporating direct rotator cuff training.
OK maybe now I have your attention. So how do you make sure your rotator cuff isn't the weak link in your bench press? Or even more importantly how will you prevent a bench press blowout where you damage the rotator cuff? Like we discussed you need to strengthen the muscles, so let's take a look at this workout routine. Remember if you already have an injury you should not use this routine as a rehab program but rather visit a sports medicine physician. If you want to prevent a future injury and break past a bench press sticking point then follow this routine twice a week. If you're not in pain now, that's an even better reason to follow my advice. Trust me if you have a nagging injury you're not going to be growing or getting any stronger. Train smart, so that you can hit the weight hard when you do bench.
The first thing you need to do is stretch the muscles you are about to train. Make sure you have warmed up for a good five minutes on the bike or treadmill before you start stretching. This will help you acquire greater flexibility. You already know stretching is important so just do it. You don't need any equipment for this stretch. You can do it one arm at a time or with both arms at the same time. Extend your arms out from the torso at a right angle. Now bend your elbows at a 90-degree angle. Place your forearms on the frame of the doorway and lean forward. You will feel the stretch in your pecs and the back of your shoulders. Hold the stretch for 20-30 seconds. Next I want you to hang from a pull up bar for 20-30 seconds. This isn't a grip strength test so no you don't have to hang on for the full 30 seconds.
Cuban Press Rotation
Grab an EZ Curl bar and perform a wide grip upright row until the bar is a few inches below your collar bone. Now keep your elbows stationary while you externally rotate the bar as if you were trying to tap your forehead. Next you will press the bar overhead. Lower the weight along the same plane and repeat for ten reps. You will not be able to use the same weight you use for standard overhead presses due to the external rotation. This exercise won't build your ego right now, but you'll be thanking me when your bench press increases.
Cable External Rotation
Raise the pulley until it is even with your elbow. You'll be standing sideways next to the weight stack so if your right hand is holding the handle, your left foot should be closest to the weight stack. Grasp the cable attachment with your far arm while keeping your elbow close to your side and forearm across your stomach. Your palm should be facing in. Pull cable attachment away from body by externally rotating your shoulder. Return and repeat. Turn around and continue with opposite arm.
Cable Internal Rotation
Again raise the pulley until it is even with elbow. You'll be standing sideways next to the weight stack but this time if your right hand is holding the handle your right foot should be closest to the weight stack. Grasp the cable attachment with the closest arm. Keep your elbow close to your side with your palm facing in. Pull the cable attachment across your body by internally rotating your shoulder. Return and repeat. Turn around and continue with opposite arm.
90-Degree Dumbbell External Rotation
To finish off the infraspinatus, hold a dumbbell in each hand, and perform a lateral raise to 90-degrees while keeping the elbows bent at 90-degrees. Once your upper arms are parallel to the floor, externally rotate your arm so that your forearms are perpendicular to the floor. It will look like starting point of a dumbbell military press. Now lower and repeat. Remember to use light weight. The infraspinatus is a tiny muscle so it can't handle a heavy load. The shoulder horn is a great piece of equipment that keeps your arms in place while you perform this motion.
Do three sets of ten repetitions for each exercise. Perform the routine once a week in conjunction with your current workout. This is important so listen up. The last thing you want to do is pre-exhaust your rotator cuff before training the bench press. Never do this workout prior to a heavy bench press or shoulders session or you run an even greater risk of aggravating the area. You can give these exercises a try at the end of your workout, but be sure you always give your rotator cuff muscles 48-hours rest after a workout before training chest or shoulders.
Points To Remember:
We all know people who were really into bodybuilding/powerlifting and looked forward to bench pressing only to eventually drop out after a few years of hardcore training. Why? In many cases nagging injuries especially those of the shoulder, simply took the fun out of it. This doesn't have to happen to you so you're ahead of the game. The best thing you can do to keep your shoulders healthy, and make sure your bench press continues to improve is strengthen your rotator cuff muscles so that they will never be your weakest link! After all your bench press will be going nowhere fast if you're injured. Pick up the girlie weights for a few sets once a week so you'll experience a bench press blastoff instead of a bench press blowout.
About The Author:
Mike Westerdal is the President of Critical Bench, Inc. He earned his BS from Central CT State University and holds certification as a personal trainer with the American Council on Exercise. Westerdal also has experience coaching and playing professional football. His articles are published throughout the Web and in numerous weight lifting magazines. His personal best RAW bench press is 450 lbs. Mike can be contacted at his Web site www.criticalbench.com or by emailing firstname.lastname@example.com. For more information on increasing your bench press read about the Critical Bench Program here.
Return to the Bench Press Articles Archive


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The Nineteenth Century has gone down in the history books as the Age of Sticky-Sweet Cocktails. But an interesting thing happened at the end of the 1880s and through the 1890s which revolutionized hard drinks forever: America went mad for dryness.
Through most of the century, what was meant by "vermouth" was Italian Vermouth -- the sweet, red stuff. Then French Vermouth came along -- pale, white-wine based, and determinedly dry. This had two effects. First, and less importantly, it produced an essentially transparent drink. The warm orange color of the Manhattan gave way to a drink that, without its olive or twist, could easily be mistaken for a glass of water.
More significantly, taking a Martinez and substituting dry vermouth for sweet resulted in an utterly transformed drink.
The American Martini Laboratory recreated that first, Ur-Martini, using the recipe below:
One part Old Tom Gin
One part Dry Vermouth
Two dashes orange bitters
Shake over ice, then strain into a cocktail glass
Add a twist of lemon
Judging this drink is extremely difficult. Taken as the next step in the evolution of the cocktail from its origins in the noble Manhattan, it is an eye-opener. It does not taste at all like a Martinez with one ingredient changed. It is an entirely new drink, and a significant step on the road to the Martini as we know it today. So in this regard it must be considered a success.
Taken as a Martini, however... It is extraordinarily wet, and the Old Tom Gin gives it a lingering touch of sweetness. It is not the ne plus ultra of drinks that one goes to a Martini to experience.
Still, a good beginning.
Next: The substitution of London Gin for Old Tom results in the Dry Martini. Or perhaps that should be "Dry" Martini. Stay tuned.


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Love Nashville Life - Living!
Living in Nashville is like a dream you can find Live Music 7 days a week, Historic Homes and Locations as well as great Museums and Art Galleries. Talented musicians and artist move to Nashville to be part of the excitement. Everyone can enjoy the beautiful city with lush green rolling hills, Parks and Greenways. The mild climate makes it a perfect vacation spot and tourist will be pleased with the friendly locals who are glad to tell you their favorite Music Spot, Band or Restaurant.


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Full Spectrum Sunlite Floor Lamp Birds Crafts Dark Wood Grain
Original price was: $79.00.$75.00Current price is: $75.00.
6 in stock
This product is available for $66.00 a 12% discount, if it is your first purchase, please register/login here
Light Bulb Included!
The product measures 9-inch x 10-inch x 55 inches High
Are your birds ready to have a sunny day, Every day?
So much like sunshine, it feels like you're on vacation! The New lighting technology simulates outdoor sunlight, which is balanced across the entire spectrum of color visible to the human eye. Everything seems so much easier to see. This is the clearest, brightest and most comfortable lighting we have found.
Colors appear more vivid and true to life. Black and white contrast is heightened for easier reading. The soft and pure white light is easy on the eyes as it spreads to clearly illuminate your personal space. The flexible gooseneck is fully adjustable to any angle. So you see more comfortably for reading, working, and all closeup tasks and hobbies.
Colors will be more vivid. Better contrast for reading. Helps reduce eye strain. Sharp visibility for more detail. Glare free for computer use. The Sunlight Lamp will look good in any room in the house or in the office and show off your bird's colors!
Why is the Bulb better than normal bulbs? Save $$$$ on your electric bills! The supplied high-tech 27-watt bulb, with a C.R.I.(Color Rendering Index) of 80-85, gives as much light as an ordinary 150-watt bulb, but uses far less energy. The bulb can last up to 5000 hours*, 5x longer than other bulbs- for years of normal use.
What is KELVIN Temperature? – The Kelvin temperature is 6500K.
How many Lumens does it give off? The bulb gives off 1300 LUMENS
We've nicknamed our Sunlight Lamp the "It's great to be alive lamp"! Many people say that bright sunny days seem to have a cheerful and energizing effect, but that dreary, dark days make them feel "blue".Now you can switch on the sunlight, indoors, every day of the year!
* Light quality diminishes over time, it is highly recommended to replace your Full Spectrum bulbs after one year of use.
**Replacements for defective lamps are limited to 30 days.


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TheBattalion.tv Firefighter Series - Fire, EMS, Rescue, Training
Please purchase a stream or a download to watch this webisode HD. Not ready to purchase? That's okay! You can also watch any of our 180+ webisodes in SD or the first 3 webisodes in any series in HD -- free of charge.
Meet Calaveras Consolidated Fire
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Established in 1866, the San Francisco Fire Department is rich in tradition and history. From the Great Earthquake and Fire of 1906 to the Loma Prieta Earthquake of 1989, the Department has grown to meet the many challenges along the way. This department serves an estimated 1.5 million people, providing fire suppression and emergency medical services to the residents, visitors and workers within San Francisco's 49 square miles. www.sf-fire.org
San Diego Fire serves the community of San Diego by providing the highest level of emergency/rescue services, hazard prevention and safety education ensuring the protection of life, property and the environment. www.SanDiegoFire.org
Established in 1877, the Fresno Fire Department is one of the oldest departments in the United States, rich in history and tradition. Today, the department strives to be an innovative and progressive organization in order to meet the changing demands of the city and the fire districts, which the department provides service to. www.FresnoFire.gov
The Calaveras Consolidated Fire Protection District (Cal-Co Fire) was formed on July 1, 2013 through a Joint Power Agreement between Jenny Lind and Foothill Fire Protection Districts. Cal-Co Fire covers roughly a 163 square mile area in the western portion of Calaveras County. www.CalCo.org
I trigger a dialog. Congratulations -- you found me!


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Discover the cosmos! Each day a different image or photograph of our fascinating universe is featured, along with a brief explanation written by a professional astronomer.
Explanation: Almost unknown to casual observers in the northern hemisphere, the southern sky contains two diffuse wonders known as the Magellanic Clouds. The Magellanic Clouds are small irregular galaxies orbiting our own larger Milky Way spiral galaxy. The Small Magellanic Cloud (SMC), pictured here, is about 250,000 light years away and contains a preponderance of young, hot, blue stars indicating it has undergone a recent period of star formation. There is evidence that the SMC is not gravitationally bound to the LMC.
Authors & editors:
Robert Nemiroff
Jerry Bonnell (USRA)
NASA Technical Rep.:
Jay Norris.
Specific rights apply.
A service of:
LHEA at
Michigan Tech. U.


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This Puma Swing GTX golf shoe brings the best of old school design and modern technology into a super hip looking package.
This Swing GTX was a real eye catcher for me the first time I saw it. There's a retro style and simple elegance to these golf shoes. How Puma can take a white shoe with a couple of green (or black depending on the model) lines and make it look so cool is beyond me. That's why I'm a golf blogger and not a shoe designer I suppose.
The Swing GTX is super comfortable. With the soft leather in the upper I feel like I'm wearing my cozy slippers rather than a pair of performance golf shoes.
There was no break-in period required before enjoying that comfort level either. I put 'em on and they felt great right out of the box.
Despite being so comfortable with that soft leather, the Swing GTX has a two year waterproof warranty. The leather upper is lined with Gore-Tex.
I'd tell you how great these are in the rain but I can't bring myself to wear these babies in less than perfect conditions for fear of getting them dirty! They just look so clean and stylish I want to keep them that way. I'm sure if they got a bit muddy they'd wash off fine, but I just like keeping them pristine.
The Puma Swing GTX's employ some intriguingly wild technology in the soles. Rather than soft spikes, the GTX uses permantely mounted "Smart Quills." The quills are small plastic tabs which point in all sorts of directions. They look sort of like little gun turrets.
How can a quill be smart you ask? Great question. The quill directions are optimized for traction in the golf swing. Knowing each foot is doing something drastically different in the golf swing, Puma set the quill directions differently for each shoe. In other words the quill pattern is different for the right and left shoes for optimal traction and performance in the golf swing.
UPDATE: What about the left handed golfer?
The quills on the shoes should be configured differently for left handed players, correct? Yes. Puma does make a left and right handed version. The way you tell the difference is the coloring of the soles. If you notice in some of my photos of the GTX, one sole is silver and one black. This is how you tell whether the shoes are "righty" or "lefty."
Fortunately I'm a "righty" as I've heard the lefty versions are a little difficult to find.
On the course
As I mentioned earlier, these Pumas were comfortable right out of the box. No blisters or break-in period like some golf shoes.
I've been very surprised by the performance of the quills. I've had exceptional traction. I've only slipped in a golf swing twice on very wet ground, over several dozen rounds.
I like to walk the course when I golf and these GTX's are great walking shoes. The soles are not terribly thick, which helps me out with my bad back. Walking in thick or stiff soled shoes causes me a lot of back pain. No such issues with the GTX's.
Right off the bat I was concerned about the durability of the quills. I was sure the quills would wear off after 3-4 rounds. Puma must have made the quills out of some top secret indestructible material from another planet. I've played dozens of rounds wearing the GTX's and not one quill has worn off yet.
My only critique is with the Puma web site itself. I usually browse equipment sites to get information, check facts and find a place to link to in my reviews. The Puma site has infuriatingly too much Adobe Flash content. I see this all the time. There are so many bells and whistles, animations, things flying around and sound effects but I can't find the core of what I'm looking for with any ease at all, if it exists.
Clicking on "learn more about the Swing GTX" in their golf section only results in a golf swing sound effect and color changes in the background image. Nothing else happens. I never actually get to learn more. I just get to learn that their site doesn't work.
I play golf a fair amount with the #1 amateur in my state. This guy has rooms full of gear he has won. He's the only guy I've seen other than myself wearing the Puma Swing GTX's (he has the black line and I have the green line). He could wear any shoe he wants because he has almost limitless prize money to spend and he chose the Pumas. I can't say I blame him.
Puma Gallery
I have more images of the Puma Swing GTX's in the Hooked On Golf Blog Puma Gallery.


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Audi A3 8Y Screen Protector 2020+
【Compatible models】Audi A3 8Y 2020+
【9H Hardened Glass】 The 9H tempered glass retains the touch functionality of the GPS navigator while providing a smoother feel and protection against accidental abrasion and scratches from knives, keys, and other hard objects.
【Ultra-thin and Smooth】With a thickness of 0.25mm, the surface is covered with a hydrophobic and oleophobic coating that provides a smooth feel to your screen while reducing sweat, oil, and fingerprints.
【Crisp visuals】Maintains the clarity of the original screen after installation, with accurate screen color and icon size reproduction, providing a glossy feel to your screen, reducing eye strain, and giving you a visual treat.
【Easy to Install】No need for edge building, aligns to the screen, self-absorbing mounting, and no air bubbles. Comes complete with a kit and detailed assembly instructions.
Brand |
Compatible Devices |
Navigation Device |
Material |
Tempered Glass |
Item Hardness |
Special Feature |
Glossy,Anti Dust, Anti Glare |
Finish Type |
Oil Rubbed |
Unit Count |
1.0 Count |
Screen Size |
10.1 Inches |
Screen Surface Description |
Smooth |
Number of Items |
1 |


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I went through them and realised I hadn't bought more than one or two tubes of new paint in a decade - the last time was back in 2005, just at the time I started this blog and tried out the (then)new 'Potter's Pink'. Not all of the dried up tubes needed replacing - colours like these pinks are so vibrant I only use them in tiny amounts, not for washes, so I can happily use the dry lumps they have become.
I took the plunge and spent some money. Not only paints, but all the paper I'll need for the final artworks (about 20 A2 sheets), and yet another ceramic palette (I can never have enough). And another big roll of gummed strip; the sad little remnant there is all that is left of the previous large one, which was used up over five years. That is, I can tell you, a lot of work. I also had to replace my pencils which get used up within weeks at the moment.
This is my other box of paints; my gouaches and some of my new tubes. I bought everything from Jackson's Art online, who are my main suppliers; apart from their prices, I've never had anything but prompt and courteous service from them, and that's all you really want from a company. I indulged myself and bought several new colours from two brands I'd not heard of before.
Shin Han and Maimeri Blu both make affordable water colours, and Shin Han especially had some gorgeous sounding hues, some of which are opaque, a quality I like. There are all kinds of *rules* about water colour painting and I ignore them all. I mix gouache with watercolour, even though it splits. You just keep briskly mixing it together as you work and this often gives me lovely, strange colours. (One of the other *rules* is that you don't mix watercolours - you layer them. However my entire painting style rests on mixing and re-mixing - it works for me). I made a little colour sample to try out the colours I'd not used before. The Shin Han ones came out on top. I've kept this image large, so that if you're interested you can click on it and see what I mean. The 'Shell Pink' and 'Horizon Blue' are two shades that I'm always mixing up, so it's nice to have it ready to hand. I've always thought of the pink as sticking plaster colour. The Shin Han samples are on the left, the Maimeri Blue on the top left, three of them.
I don't think I'll be using the 'Lilac' much, (too purpley) but 'Davy's Grey and 'Horizon Blue' are keepers. The one error was stupidly buying 'Green Earth' from the Maimeri Blu range. Of course, it's what I know as 'Terre Verte'. This brand of paint is also quite gummy, which is typical of a cheaper tange. Not something I mind, but I know some people do. The 'Sandal Red' is basically a geranium shade, but a nice one. Here it is with Sennelier's Rose Dore (very red) and Winsor & Newton's Geranium Lake (pale) gouache. But still very tasty. An opaque colour I used to use a lot for mixing is Daler Rowney's 'Nickel Titanate Yellow' . When I ran out I replaced it with a Winsor & Newton version, which really was not the same. It didn't have the chalky, lemony bite of the DR, so I'm glad to have it back. Another colour I am very fussy over is sepia. It's something I don't use in my commercial work, as it dulls the vibrancy. My publisher once had a prospective book of mine rejected by clients because it was 'too brown'. However I always put a sepia wash in my personal work and it seems to be a selling point, giving it a nostalgic feel. Go figure, as my American friends say. I only have one sepia in my box that I like, and that is an ancient tube of Reeves in lead casing. It has the blackness which marks proper sepia... ...here is is on the right, compared to two others I have (Winsor & Newton Gouache and Old Holland) which are really just brown. Actually my favourite sepia is in the Cotman student range, but naturally I forgot to order that one. I find it invaluable to keep a record of how I mix colours. This is a big sheet I made about 13 years ago, and I still use it today. Again, I've left it at big size., so you can click on it for more detail There are plenty of examples on it of how I've jumbled Nickel Titanate Yellow with other colours, to produce something I find interesting. So when I hit my final deadline (please God) at the beginning of June, I might just start painting for pleasure again, now that I've had my little strop and a two year break. Sorry Dad and thanks again for the paint box.


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How Can Business Leaders Accept the Challenges of the New Energy Era?

A relatlively large number of business leaders are shifting their firms to be ready for the new energy economy, but important questions remain, including how to measure success and how to convince others to join in the quest.

This is the first in a Rocky Mountain Institute series on the steps business leaders can take to seize the economic and competitive opportunities outlined in Reinventing Fire: Bold Business Solutions for the New Energy Era.
If you've have heard about Reinventing Fire, Rocky Mountain Institute's roadmap for a secure, renewable energy future, and are like almost everyone with whom I have talked about it, you wonder where to start. This blog is the first of several by RMI staff to help business leaders identify the steps they can take now to begin seizing the economic and competitive opportunities available by leading in the new energy era.
Since releasing Reinventing Fire back in October, I've been on the road introducing its vision. The majority of my time has been spent with senior business executives, most of whom recognize the risks associated with our aging energy systems but struggle with the magnitude of the challenge and a clear picture for what they can do about it.
A lot of execs are already taking the initial, common sense steps to move their businesses and industries toward a new energy economy. Many others, though, despite their concerns about the consequences of business as usual in our energy system, seem to want that same business as usual to make things better.
Thankfully, Reinventing Fire provides a robust framework to develop solutions that transcend the industrial boundaries and entrenched interests hard-coded into our energy systems over the past century. Our guide to a 2050 energy system that requires no oil, coal or nuclear power includes detailed recommendations for key players within the relevant sectors: transportation, buildings, industry and electricity. These suggestions range from no-regrets actions everyone can take today to truly innovative actions steps for the most progressive leaders.
Yet, faced with such complex and interconnected issues, many readers are still asking: How do I gain traction personally and professionally? Are there other tangible steps to take now, and how can I influence those around me to join in this grand quest? And, maybe most difficult to answer, how do I know if I am making progress? When asked these questions, I have a few suggestions. They include:
Focus on the economics of opportunity vs. the economics of cost. The math may be the same, but people and organizations seem willing to accept a lower potential ROI or assume more investment risk when pursuing an opportunity they are excited about vs. trying to justify a cost they would prefer to avoid. Establish a winner's mindset as winners and losers are sorted out in the shift from fossil fuels to a more efficient, renewable energy base. Accomplish this by focusing your own and your business's attention on the opportunities created by action. Keep in mind the risks associated with inaction and maintaining a business-as-usual attitude toward energy.
Own your role in contributing to the problem -- and pursuing the solution. I recently had a transformational experience at an event hosted by the Pew Center on Global Climate Change. Up on stage, in front of several hundred people, the CFO of UPS opened his presentation with a simple statement: "We are polluters." His point was clear and honest -- that in the execution of its core business, UPS generates a lot of pollution. The CFO said he -- and all of UPS management -- own this as a real business challenge, and have made addressing their environmental impact a top-line priority.
I realized that at some point the energy at UPS must have shifted from denial and obfuscation of the obvious facts to acceptance, so all the energy wasted before that turning point could be redirected to solutions. I was left wondering how many coal-based utilities would openly and honestly acknowledge that they were polluters, and how much energy and resource might be unleashed if they just accepted that fact and owned the responsibility to deal with it.
Become present with the problem and challenges for all stakeholders, and look across boundaries to embrace "coopetition." It's one thing to understand a problem from your own perspective. It's another thing to really experience it -- to internalize the challenges that the problem causes and really commit yourself to being an active, vital part of the solution. Yet, you'll also want to understand the perspective and roles that others will play in the transformation and work in concert with them to achieve progressive alignment across all the powers with a stake in the game.
A great example of this is playing out in the renewable energy space, especially in the solar industry. Ultimately, deep penetration of renewables will require broad acceptance by electric utilities. However, management and engineers within today's utilities often see renewables as a major nuisance with technical and economic hurdles that are not worth overcoming compared with the alternates at hand. While most entrepreneurs and renewables advocates are spending their energy and precious resources lobbying for mandates to force utilities to use renewables, a few are starting to understand they might gain more by working with utility leadership to envision solar and other renewables as a problem-solving asset.
Avoid a too big a focus on quick wins or buzz about the latest and greatest technology. Instead, measure progress one step at a time and in terms of potential scalability. Solutions to messy problems including climate change, national security and economic competitiveness take a long time to develop and rarely take the shape or form expected at the outset, so it's really hard to predict and measure progress.
That's OK, and as such it's essential to see and celebrate small wins and to recognize that in many ways the ultimate scalability of what we are doing today may contribute more than the specific ideas themselves.
For example, many of today's very successful solar business models and products, which work really well under subsidies, are likely not terribly scalable since they are often unintentionally customized for success within an artificial market. Conversely, some of today's more moderately successful solar business models and products are slowly proving themselves in unsubsidized and less solar-friendly markets, likely building on a core set of customer-oriented values, which will serve them well in when all the subsidies fade away.
As visionary business leaders have shown, we can all take immediate actions in this grand effort to transform the biggest and most complex system in modern society. Beyond the first steps, diligent application of tested approaches including systems thinking to look beyond narrow boundaries will, in time, create solutions to some of the most wicked problems of our time.


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This is the fifth post in a series exploring the topics covered in the book You Are Not Your Pain [Amazon affiliate link]. See You Are Not Your Pain: An Introduction to learn more.
You Are Not Your Pain is, unsurprisingly, focused on pain. But the concepts in the book, which are those of mindfulness-based stress reduction, can apply to all sorts of physical symptoms (and to life well beyond illness). In the book, Vidyamala Burch mentioned that she uses mindfulness to reduce fatigue. While I employ mindfulness for managing pain—and in all other aspects of my life—I had never tried to experience fatigue mindfully. I was so intrigued that I asked Vidyamala to explain.
Kerrie Smyres: I saw in an interview that you used to have severe fatigue. Did your fatigue decrease as part of your mindfulness practice?
Vidyamala Burch: Yes my fatigue has massively decreased over the years in which I have practised mindfulness and compassion. Really to a remarkable degree. I now have a lot of energy, in fact more than a lot of my able bodied friends! This is partly because of what I have learned about myself through meditation and awareness. There is so much less inner conflict. Also, I have learned to manage my energy in daily life much better through pacing myself. I used to go at things hammer and tongs and then have a big flare up, but I am now more balanced in my approach. I use the slogan "take a break BEFORE you need it" rather than keeping going at an activity until I am completely shattered. That's made a big difference.


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As is mentioned in this new post on the Symfony Finland site, the functionality allowing the Twig templating engine to perform Angular 2 Universal Rendering.
Angular is a household name when it comes to JavaScript frameworks. They've been going through a major transition since the announcement of Angular 2. In the latest development Angular 2 will be getting PHP / Twig support for isomorphic rendering.[...] So the Angular and the Drupal development teams have started working together to bring Universal Rendering to PHP and Twig. The details remain murky on how exactly this will be implemented (using a Node.js server or a PHP library), but a PHP library (not an extension written in C) would be the easiest option for developers.
He points out that there's also a chance that the result could be coupled to Drupal (at least at first) but hopes are that it will end up as a generic component usable in any system using Twig. The post also includes links where you can find out more information about the topic of "Isomorphic Rendering" too.


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Week of April 26
© Copyright 2012 Rob Brezsny
ARIES (March 21-April 19): "True life is lived when tiny changes occur," said Leo Tolstoy. I agree. It's rare for us to undergo rapid, dramatic transformations in short periods of time. That's why it's delusional to be forever pining for some big magic intervention that will fix everything. The best way to alter our course is slowly and gradually, by conscientiously revamping our responses to the small daily details. Keep these thoughts close at hand in the coming weeks, Aries. Be a devotee of the incremental approach. Step-by-step. Hour-by-hour.
TAURUS (April 20-May 20): "What people really need and demand from life is not wealth, comfort, or esteem, but games worth playing," said psychiatrist Thomas Szasz. I love that thought, and am excited to offer it up to you right now. You have been invited or will soon be invited to participate in some of the best games ever. These are not grueling games foisted on you by people hoping to manipulate you, nor pointless games that exhaust your energy for naught. Rather, they are fun challenges that promise to stretch your intelligence, deepen your perspective, and enhance your emotional riches.
GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Is it conceivable that you've gotten a bit off track? As I close my eyes and ask my higher powers for a psychic vision, I get an impression of you staring at a blurry image of a symbol that is no longer an accurate representation of your life goal. Now of course there's a chance that my vision is completely unfounded. But if it does ring at least somewhat true to you — if it suggests a question worth asking yourself — I invite you to meditate on the possibility that you need to update your understanding of what your ultimate target looks like.
CANCER (June 21-July 22): From an astrological point of view, it's prime time for you to attend a networking extravaganza or collaboration spree. Likewise, this is an excellent phase in your long-term cycle to organize a gathering for the close allies who will be most important in helping you carry out your master plan during the next 12 months. Have you ever heard of the term "Temporary Autonomous Zone"? It's a time and place where people with shared interests and common values can explore the frontiers of productive conviviality. It might be a dinner party in an inspirational setting, a boisterous ritual in a rowdy sanctuary, or a private festival for fellow seekers. I hope you make sure something like that materializes.
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): To begin one of his performances, comedian and musician Steve Martin ambled on stage and told his audience what to expect. "Before every show," he said, "I like to do one thing that is impossible. So now I'm going to suck this piano into my lungs." That's the kind of brag I hope to hear coming from you sometime soon, Leo — the more outrageous the better. Why? Because I'd love to see you cultivate a looser, breezier relationship with your actual ambitions. To make boastful jokes about wacky or farfetched goals might inspire you to be jauntier and friskier about those real ones. And that would rouse a burst of fresh motivational energy.
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): The text for this week's oracle comes from Frederick Douglass (1818-1895), a great American statesman who, after escaping slavery, became a leader of the abolitionist movement. "Those who profess to favor freedom and yet depreciate agitation," he said, "are people who want crops without plowing the ground; they want rain without thunder and lightning . . . The struggle may be a moral one, or it may be a physical one, or it may be both. But it must be a struggle. Power concedes nothing without a demand." Please apply these thoughts to your own situation, Virgo. You have entered the liberation phase of your cycle.
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): I'm about to list some declarations that I hope will come out of your mouth at least once in the next three weeks. If for any reason you're not finding yourself in situations where these words would make sense for you to utter, please rearrange your life accordingly. 1. "There's nothing else I'd rather be doing right now." 2. "Is it okay with you if we take this really slow?" 3. "No one's ever done that before." 4. "Squeeze my hand when it feels really amazing." 5. "It's like we know what each other is thinking." 6. "Can I have some more, please?"
SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): A political strategist told me one of her most important rules: To win an election, you have to help your candidate choose the right fights. I think that would be an excellent guiding principle for you in the coming weeks, Scorpio. According to my reading of the astrological omens, you will be getting invitations to spar, joust, and wrangle. Although it might be exciting to leap into each and every fray with your eyes blazing, I suggest you show careful discernment. Try to confine your participation to those tangles that will downplay your weaknesses and highlight your strengths.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): In the famous children's book *The Little Prince,* the hero lives on an asteroid with three volcanoes, two active and one dormant. One day he decides to leave home and travel to other realms. Before departing, he meticulously scours all three volcanoes. "If they are well cleaned out," the narrator reports, "volcanoes burn slowly and steadily, without any eruptions." I recommend that you take after the Little Prince, Sagittarius. It's high time to attend to the upkeep of your volcanoes. Make sure they will burn slow and steady in the coming months, even when you're not at home.
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): One of the classics of ancient Sanskrit literature is the Kama Sutra, which gives practical advice about erotic love. The most popular edition of the book offers instructions on eight kinds of kisses and 64 sexual positions, with additional tips on styles of embracing and caressing. This would be an excellent time for you to get inspired by information like that, Capricorn. Your relationship with the amorous arts is due for expansion and refinement. You don't necessarily need to rely on book learning, of course. You could accomplish a lot of empirical exploration simply by getting naked and firing up your imagination.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Singer-songwriter Tom Waits was strongly influenced by Bob Dylan's down-to-earth album *The Basement Tapes.* "I like my music with the rinds and the seeds and pulp left in," Waits testifies. "The noise and grit" of Dylan's rootsy, intimate songs, he says, creates a mood of "joy and abandon." That's the spirit I wish for you in the coming weeks, Aquarius. Wherever you are and whatever you're doing, get down to the gritty, organic core of things. Hunker down in the funky fundamentals. Hang out where the levels of pretension are low and the stories are fresh and raw.
PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): You're not really breaking the rules, right, Pisces? It's more like you're just testing their elasticity; you're helping them become more supple and flexible. I'm sure that sooner or later people will thank you for how you're expanding the way the game is played. It may take a while, but they will eventually appreciate and capitalize on the liberties you are now introducing into the system. In the short run, though, you might have to take some heat for your tinkering and experiments. Try not to let that inhibit your eagerness to try creative risks.


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Benny and Suzanne Hinn to Remarry in March
Charismatic pastor and evangelist Benny Hinn has announced that he and Suzanne Hinn, whom he divorced in 2010, will celebrate the restoration of their marriage in a ceremony on March 3 that will be conducted by Dr. Jack Hayford.
Describing how he and Ms. Hinn "are more in love with each other than ever before," Pastor Hinn shared in a newsletter with supporters:
"... On March 3, less than two weeks from now, Suzanne and I will stand before God and our family members as we celebrate the restoration of our marriage in a ceremony conducted by Dr. Jack Hayford, evangelist Reinhard Bonnke, and Suzanne's father, Dr. Roy Harthern!"
The announcement came on Monday, less than a year after the faith-healing Christian minister had revealed that he and his former wife had actually started taking steps toward reconciliation during a family gathering in Orlando, Fla., on Christmas in 2011.
Suzanne Hinn separated from her husband in January 2010 and filed a petition for divorce in a California court the following month, citing irreconcilable differences. Pastor Hinn claimed, however, that her addiction to prescription drugs is what led to the breakdown of their marriage. He also admitted that his frequent trips away from home also put stress on their relationship and could have led to her abuse of medication.
"The truth of the matter is that Suzanne filed for divorce because she was in a deep emotional and physical crisis that affected her in such a way that caused her to make a decision she now regrets. And although it was, without question, the most agonizing two and a half years of my life, the end of our marriage most certainly woke me up, and the Lord used it to show me – as a man of God and as a man – that I cannot function properly without my wife and family," Hinn previously shared.
When the original announcement of reconciliation came in May 2012, there was speculation that the Hinns would remarry that same year at Calvary Assembly in Orlando – the church that Suzanne Hinn's father, Dr. Roy Harthern, once served as lead pastor. However, the evangelist later clarified that he and his former wife would be taking their time to allow God to heal their lives and marriage, and would avoid setting any dates.
With the time now having arrived, Hinn has thanked supporters for their prayers and insisted that more information about the "celebration" would be revealed. No location has been given for the remarriage ceremony.
"Again, I want to thank you for praying and loving us as you have! Suzanne and I believe that the ministry God gave us will be greater than ever in the future. She will be by my side for the rest of my life," the 60-year-old evangelist shared in his Monday newsletter.
"I truly believe that we are entering an unprecedented season where we will see God's anointing in a way we've never experienced before! We believe, as we move forward, that God will not only save souls and heal bodies through our ministry, but will also heal families," Hinn added. "Praise God for what He has done, and thank you for rejoicing."
Dr. Jack Hayford, previously reported as the one who would oversee the ceremony, has been credited with helping the Hinns to revive their relationship. The Pentecostal minister is president of King's University (formerly The King's College and Seminary) in Los Angeles, which he founded in 1997. He is also the former president of the International Church of the Foursquare Gospel and founding pastor of The Church On The Way in Van Nuys, Calif., where he served for more than 30 years.
Reinhard Bonnke, noted in Hinn's remarriage announcement, is a German charismatic Christian evangelist known for his ministry outreach in Africa.
Benny and Suzanne Hinn, who had been married for about 30 years, have three daughters and a son. The son, Joshua Hinn, was recently questioned by law enforcement officials during one of his father's evangelistic meetings in Brazil for allegedly beating up a deaf and mute man. The 21-year-old, along with two bodyguards employed by Benny Hinn Ministries, was eventually allowed to return to the U.S. with no charges filed.
Hinn, known for his frequent miracle healing crusades held all over the world, claims to have an "anointing," or special power from God, that gives him the supernatural ability to heal people.
In addition to his faith-healing and prophecy claims being scrutinized, Hinn's ministry was included in a 2007 Senate investigation of the financial dealings of several high-profile prosperity preachers. He was commended for voluntarily sharing financial information regarding his ministry with the U.S. Senate Finance Committee.
Benny Hinn Ministries and Hinn's World Healing Center Church are located in Grapevine, Texas.
The Christian Post's repeated attempts to speak with representatives of Benny Hinn Ministries were unsuccessful.


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Barack Obama Plans To Launch Charm Offensive Aimed at Israeli Public
After nearly four years of often testy relations with Benjamin Netanyahu, President Barack Obama is about to try a different tack – going over the head of Israel's prime minister and appealing directly to the Israeli people.
Obama's first presidential visit to Israel next week, while certainly including meetings with Netanyahu, will focus heavily on resetting his relationship with the country's wary public as he seeks to reassure them he is committed to their security and has their interests at heart.
All signs are that Obama hopes the strategy will give him more leverage with the right-wing Netanyahu – politically weakened by January's election in which centrists made surprising gains – to pursue a peaceful resolution with Iran and eventually address the Israeli-Palestinian stalemate.
But it will be no easy task.
Obama faces the challenge of overcoming Israeli suspicions that have lingered since his early days in office when he pressed Netanyahu for a freeze on settlement expansion and launched a short-lived outreach to Tehran, Israel's arch-foe.
On top of that, Obama – known for his cool, detached public persona – rarely comes across with the kind of "I feel your pain" diplomacy that Bill Clinton used to charm Israelis and Palestinians alike during his presidency.
Even so, some Middle East experts say Obama may be able to take advantage of an opening to build public confidence in Israel, the first foreign destination of his second term.
His visit comes at a time when U.S. and Israeli strategic concerns seem more closely aligned than they have been in years, with the West's nuclear standoff with Iran at a critical stage and Syria's civil war seen as a threat to regional stability.
"There's no substitute for actually being there," said Dennis Ross, Obama's former Middle East adviser. "It's an opportunity for him to connect with the Israeli psyche."
But there is also the risk of a disconnect.
Many Israelis will be looking to Obama for firmer reassurance of his resolve to do what is deemed necessary, including the use of military force, to prevent Iran from getting a nuclear bomb. Iran denies such ambitions.
The U.S. president does not appear likely, however, to go much further, despite Netanyahu's repeated calls for a stricter U.S. "red line."
Obama, who has insisted he is not bluffing about military action against Iran if all else fails, told American Jewish leaders privately last week he saw little value in extra "chest-beating" just to sound tough, participants said.
The White House believes Israelis have yet to reach a consensus on how to confront Iran, essentially putting on hold, at least for now, Netanyahu's threats of an attack on Tehran's nuclear sites, according to a source familiar with the administration's thinking.
Obama will stress with Netanyahu the need for patience with sanctions and diplomacy, the source said. But U.S. officials also hope a high-profile recommitment to Israel's security can increase public pressure on Netanyahu to avoid aggravating the situation while world powers negotiate with Tehran.
Iran has become the main source of friction in the relationship between Obama and Netanyahu, which Aaron David Miller, a former Middle East negotiator, called the "most dysfunctional" he has ever seen between an American president and Israeli prime minister.
He believes a thaw is still possible, especially if Obama hits the right notes in Israel. "He needs to say to them, 'I understand this is a tough neighborhood and you have a dark history. I'm not trivializing your fears.' This hasn't been adequately communicated by this administration," Miller said.
Obama's decision to skip Israel in 2009 when he went to Cairo, where he offered a "new beginning" with the Muslim world, remains a sore point with many Israelis and they wonder what took him so long to visit. Obama's Republican predecessor, George W. Bush, also waited until his second term to go there.
"He (Obama) has to speak to the emotions of people because there has been a loss of faith in our relations with the United States," said Itay Bar, a student at Ben-Gurion University, where tickets for a Jerusalem speech by Obama were distributed. Bar was speaking on Israel's Army Radio.
Obama's visit is being choreographed to present him as a good friend of Israel. The White House has yet to officially announce the dates, but Israeli media say he will arrive next Wednesday.
Photo opportunities are expected at sites evoking the country's biblical past, its founding Zionist movement and the Holocaust. Obama could also inspect an Iron Dome missile battery, a U.S.-funded system that protected Israel from Hamas rockets during a brief Gaza war in November, Israeli media reports.
But the centerpiece will be Obama's televised speech to university students, reportedly set for Jerusalem's convention center, which an aide said would be the president's chance to "have a conversation with the Israeli people."
To be sure, Obama has no intention of trying to cut Netanyahu out of the picture. With both leaders starting new terms, they may have come to the realization they are stuck with each other – and this is a chance for a new chapter.
Obama's decision to hold off on any new Israeli-Palestinian peace initiative will prevent the thorny issue from dominating the agenda at a time when negotiating prospects are dim and Israelis are more focused on what many see as a looming existential threat from Iran.
Some Israelis are still likely to bristle if Obama publicly challenges them to take "hard steps" for peace, as he told the American Jewish leaders he would.
Netanyahu, who has been deep in political talks on assembling a governing coalition, is on the same page with Obama about making a successful show of the president's trip, which will also include a brief visit to the occupied West Bank to meet Palestinian leaders and a final stop in Jordan.
Obama is looking to counter Republican opponents who accused him during the 2012 campaign of "throwing Israel under the bus."
Netanyahu wants to show Israelis, who like their leaders to be assertive with Washington but not on bad terms with it, that he can still do business with Israel's superpower ally.
Netanyahu made no secret of his preference for Republican challenger Mitt Romney before last year's U.S. election, and some Israelis wonder whether Obama may want to settle scores. But Netanyahu was not alone. A poll in October found Israelis preferred Romney by 57 percent to 22 percent.
Nonetheless, many Israelis regard Obama as a solid ally, especially after Washington backed them in the Hamas conflict and staunchly opposed recent Palestinian statehood bids at the United Nations.
Some Israeli lawmakers had called on Obama to address the country's parliament. But the Knesset is renowned for eruptions of heckling and shouting. The White House opted to steer clear.
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With so much at stake for the Jewish people right now — war, rising antisemitism, a high-stakes U.S. presidential election — American Jews depend on the Forward's perspective, integrity and courage.
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