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Every Thursday I send an email with three quick tips to brighten your day and help you and your family lead a more natural life. Want to get it?
We eat organic food; we exercise regularly; and we use chemical-laden cleaning supplies. Wha, wha, what?!? It saddens me how many families with newborns still use things like fabric softener (rated by some environmental agencies as *the* most toxic household item) and DEET bug spray. Luckily, there are some alternatives that keep the household safe for baby and family…
We use Tushies Baby Wipes and love them! These are the only disposable wipes made with non-bleached woodpulp blended with natural cotton.
I was hesitant on whether I needed this, but found it invaluable!
Babies need less soap than you'd think, and same goes for shampoo.Honestly, I just use our regular old Kiss My Face olive oil soap. Avoid soaping baby from head to toe, as this can dry out skin and wash away good bacteria.
For daily use, I loved Tropical Traditions body lotion in Baby Fresh scent. Plain old coconut oil is another fine option.
I use these to pick low-hanging boogers out of baby's nose. Probably not "doctor approved," but they work like a charm and feel less intrusive than nose syringes.
A good instrument for when baby is really stuffed up. Poor dear! I like this combo set with saline spray.
I found that regular nail clippers work better than baby-safe ones. In fact, the only time our son bled was when we used the baby safe ones!
Important to have on hand.
While it ain't natural, it is a good emergency product in case baby has a raging fever or bad allergic reaction.
Most sunscreens are filled with toxic chemicals. Badger's sunscreen is pretty clean, and it seems effective.
Hopefully, your baby has some hairs to comb! Combing is also good for a scalp massage and helps to dislodge cradle cap.
Use a hot variety as the cold water humidifiers can increase airborne bacteria which ain't good for babies.
Don't bother with baby robes. Two nice towels are all you'll need.
Ten washcloths should handle various clean up needs. (These washcloths make great diaper wipes if you want to go super green.)
Great, natural way to wash and exfoliate baby's skin.
At long last, it's time to nurture yourself a bit. For our last stop, we'll share some registry ideas just for mama. You deserve it!
This is the big question. Do you register for your baby at Target? Walmart? Local boutiques?
I'm kind of an Amazon junkie. (Once you experience traditional store visits with a toddler, you'll see why :) ) And Amazon has a great baby registry service. They even let you add products from other websites. You can check out Amazon's baby registry right here.
The best reason to register with Amazon is that most people already have an account, which makes it easy on your friends and family.
And no matter where you register, I wish you a fantastic pregnancy, a really fun baby shower, and a smooth, natural, healthy delivery!


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Worldwide Tax News
Brazil to Raise Taxes on Fuel, Imports and Others
On 19 January 2015, Brazil's Finance Minister Joaquim Levy announced that a number of taxes will be increased in the country in order to balance the budget in 2015. The increases are as follows:
- The CIDE fuel tax and PIS/COFINS tax will be reapplied to gasoline and diesel:
- Gasoline - PIS/COFINS BRL 0.12/liter, CIDE BRL 0.10/liter
- Diesel - PIS/COFINS BRL 0.10/liter, CIDE BRL 0.05/liter
- Financial transactions tax on personal loans will increase from 1.5% to 3% - the tax is generally applied daily with a maximum of 365 days (~0.0082% per day x 365 = 3%)
- The combined PIS/COFINS tax on imports will be increased from 9.25% to 11.75%
- The excise tax on cosmetics sales will be applied for distributor sales (currently only applies for manufacturers and importers)
According to reports, the changes in PIS/COFINS for fuel and the financial transactions tax will have effect from 1 February 2015, while the other measures will implemented through provision measures to be issued within 90 days.
Cyprus Sets Interest Rate for Underpaid and Overpaid Tax for 2015
Cyprus has reduced the interest rate for late tax payment from 4.5% in 2014 to 4.0% in 2015. Administrative penalties of €100 to €200 plus 5% of the underpaid tax also apply.
The 4.0% interest rate for underpaid tax also applies for overpaid tax.
Ireland Film Tax Relief Increased for 2015
Ireland Revenue has issued updated guidance on the country's Film Relief Scheme, which is amended as of 1 January 2015, including a larger credit and expanded eligible expenditures. Under the scheme, the rate of relief (payable tax credit) granted is increased to a 32% of the lowest of the following:
- Eligible expenditure
- 80% of the total production cost of a film
- €50 million
General conditions for eligibility include:
- At least €250,000 must be spent on the production with at least half that amount spent on eligible expenditure
- The producer company must be resident in Ireland, or resident in an EEA State and carrying on business in Ireland through a branch or agency, and must have made a return of corporation tax for the period preceding the period during which the film is made
- The film must have received a certificate from the Revenue Commission, which includes consideration of the contribution which the film will make to the development of the film industry in Ireland, and the promotion and expression of Irish culture
- Eligible Expenditure includes the expenditure incurred by the qualifying company on the employment of eligible individuals or on goods, services or facilities within the State on the production of a qualifying film - this is expanded in 2015 to include all cast and crew working in Ireland, regardless of nationality
Click the following link for more information and application procedures on the Ireland Revenue website.
Latvia's New Optional Tax Treatment for Non-Resident Income from Management and Consultancy Fees and Rent
As part of the Budget for 2015, adopted 17 December 2014, new rules apply for the tax treatment of non-resident income from management and consultancy fees paid by Latvian residents, and rental income from the use of property in Latvia.
Under the new rules, non-resident companies have the option to apply the corporate tax rate (15%) instead of the final withholding tax rates if they are resident in an EU Member State or a jurisdiction that has entered into a tax treaty with Latvia. The withholding tax rate on management and consultancy fees is 10%, while the tax rate for rent is 5%.
The new rules apply from 1 January 2015, and the option may be exercised when filing the Latvian tax return.
OECD Publishes Discussion Draft Comments on BEPS Action 10: Low Value-Adding Intra-Group Services and Action 14: Dispute Resolution Mechanisms
The OECD has recently published the comments received in response to the public discussion drafts on the Base Erosion and Profit Shifting (BEPS) Project Actions 10 and 14. Comments for Action 10: Proposed modifications to Chapter VII of the Transfer Pricing Guidelines covering low value-adding intra-group services (PDF) were published on 20 January 2015, while comments for Action 14: Make dispute resolution mechanisms more effective (PDF) were published 19 January 2015. Over 350 pages of comments were received for Action 10, and over 400 for Action 14.
A public consultation meeting will be held on 23 January 2015 concerning the comments received for Action 14, and will be broadcast live via http://video.oecd.org/ from 9:30 am to 6 pm CET.
The public consultation meeting concerning Action 10 will be held 19-20 march 2015, though exact details have not yet been provided by the OECD.
Czech Government Considering Increased Corporate Tax Rate
The government of the Czech Republic is currently considering a 1% to 2% increase in the country's corporate tax rate, which is currently 19%. The increase will be included in the next budget unless other fiscal measures are proposed to balance the budget.
U.S. Stop Corporate Inversions Act Reintroduced in House and Senate
On 20 January 2015, the bill known as The Stop Corporate Inversions Act of 2015 was reintroduced by U.S. Senators Dick Durbin and Jack Reed, and U.S. Representatives Sander Levin and Lloyd Doggett. The bill was originally introduced in the U.S. House of Representative and the Senate in May 2014, but was not enacted.
The bill is focused on closing what is seen as a corporate inversion loophole, and includes the following main provisions:
- When a foreign corporation directly or indirectly acquires substantially all properties or assets of a domestic corporation, the foreign corporation will be treated as an inverted domestic corporation for U.S tax purposes if:
- 50% (80% under current rules) or more of the equity or voting stock of the foreign corporation is held by former shareholders of the domestic corporation (or former partners in the case of a domestic partnership); or
- The management and control of the expanded affiliate group to which the foreign corporation belongs is exercised in the U.S. and the expanded affiliate group has significant business activities in the U.S. (defined as when 25% or more of a group's employees are based in the U.S., 25% of employee compensation is incurred in respect of employees based in the U.S., 25% of assets are located in the U.S., or 25% of income is derived from the U.S.)
- The 60% and 80% ownership tests as well as the inversion gain applicable under such circumstances would be repealed by the bill
- The foreign substantial business exception under Section 7874 is maintained where the affiliated group is exempted if it has substantial business activities in the foreign country where the new corporation is incorporated
If enacted, the bill is estimated to result in USD 33 billion in tax revenue over 10 years. The effective date of the bill is 8 May 2014, and would apply to inversions completed after that date.
Click the following link for a full copy of the Stop Corporate Inversions Act 2015
Tax Treaty between Cambodia and Thailand to be Negotiated
According to recent reports, officials from Cambodia and Thailand recently met and have agreed to begin negotiations for an income tax treaty. Any resulting treaty will be the first of its kind between the two countries, and must be finalized, signed and ratified before entering into force.
Additional details will be published once available.
TIEA between Grenada and South Africa Signed
According to a recent announcement by the South Africa Revenue Service, officials from Grenada and South Africa signed a tax information exchange agreement on 10 December 2014. The agreement is the first of its kind between the two countries and will enter into force after the ratification instruments are exchanged.
TIEA between Guernsey and the Slovak Republic to Enter into Force
The tax information exchange agreement between Guernsey and the Slovak Republic will enter into force on 26 January 2015. The agreement, signed 22 October 2013, will apply for criminal tax matters from the date of its entry into force and for other matters concerning tax periods beginning on or after that date.
Powerful Tax Tools
FX Rates
Global FX Rates including Tax Year Average FX Rates and Spot Rates for all Reporting Currencies.
Corporate Tax Rates
Corporate tax rates, surtaxes, and effective tax rates for the current year, as well as historical rates and approved future rates.
Country Analysis
Detailed tax guidance for companies doing business in over 100 countries, including summaries and snapshots of key tax facts and issues.
Cross Border Tax Calculator
Calculate total tax costs and benefits of a cross border transaction including withholding tax, participation exemption and foreign tax credit rules.
Cross Border Tax Rates
Provides Domestic, treaty and EU cross border tax rates for over 5,000 country combinations for 9 different payment streams.
OECD BEPS Project
Complete overview of the OECD BEPS Project, including daily BEPS news, country adoption of BEPS measures, and an overview of the 15 BEPS Actions.
Tax Calendar
Customizable calendar tool that tracks corporate income tax, value added tax and transfer pricing obligations by country or entity.
Tax Forms
English translations of key tax forms for over 80 countries, including tax return forms, treaty benefit forms, withholding tax forms, and more.
Worldwide Tax Treaties
Repository including thousands of tax treaties (in English), OECD, UN and US Models, relevant EU Directives, Technical Explanations, and more.
Worldwide Tax Planner
Calculates the worldwide tax cost of what-if scenarios based on legal entity structure, taxable income, and cross border transactions.
Certified Rates Report
Customizable Certified Rates Report providing updated corporate and withholding tax rates at the end of each month for over 100 countries.
Withholding Tax Minimizer
Enables quick calculation of tax costs and benefits of cross border transactions considering all possible transaction combinations and optimal routes.
VAT Rates
Provides value added tax (VAT) rates, goods and services tax (GST) rates and other indirect tax rates for over 100 countries.
NOL Calculator
Country specific calculator to determine how net operating losses can be utilized in carryback and carryforward years.
Transfer Pricing Calculator
Calculates TP ratios under various TP methods and calculates the difference between target ratios and actual ratios.
Play of the Day
FX Rates
Global FX Rates including Tax year Average FX Rates and Spot Rates for all Reporting Currencies.

subset: commoncrawl


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The Baseline Road Trailhead is a paved five mile trail featuring amenities such as parking, picnic pavilions with tables and grills, restrooms, and a "boundless" playground. Enjoy a beautifully scenic jog, hike, or bike ride along the many twists and turns of this fun trail.
The trail is also a popular destination for 5-K's and other special events. Please call the Marion County Parks and Recreation Department at 352-671-8560 to determine availability and whether or not a special event permit is required.


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This summer, people will be able to surf and ski in the same day as some of California's ski resorts stay open into the summer, thanks to the winter's unusually high snowfall.
NASA data found that California's snow accumulation this year was larger than the past four years combined, and the California Department of Water Resources said it was 185 percent greater than the yearly average.After a winter of extreme weather that led to flooding and the lifting of the drought emergency status in California, skiers and snowboarders will be able to hit the slopes well into the summer months.
We can honestly say this season at Mammoth has been the best in the country, producing the best spring conditions in decades. Even the biggest season on record [668" 2010-2011] did not produce the kind of conditions and coverage we're seeing right now.
With a current base depth of 100" at Main Lodge and over 240" at the summit, Mammoth will be operating daily into August for one of the longest seasons in history.
With a current base depth of 100" at Main Lodge and over 240" at the summit, Mammoth will be operating daily into August for one of the longest seasons in history.
Kids Ski free into August. Now through the end of the season, kids 12 and under ski and ride for free.
Squaw Valley expects to be open through the weekends in July. This season you can enjoy summer skiing and the 4th of July with a music and ski festival at Squaw Valley!
"An epic snow year means California will see skiers and riders from all around the world getting in their last runs well past spring at multiple resorts", said Michael Reitzell, President of the California Ski Industry Association (Ski California). "The conditions have been amazing and all resorts have enjoyed a long season".
Reitzell thinks having winter and summer operations running simultaneously is a good thing. "In fact, it probably might lead to more people choosing to come try to do both on the same day, which is, I think, one of the coolest things California has to offer …" he said. "In Tahoe or Mammoth, you could go skiing, water skiing, mountain biking, river rafting, and play golf all in the same day".
The California Ski Industry Association (CSIA) is a non-profit trade association representing 29 ski resorts in California and Nevada under the brand "Ski California".


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A: SF Magazine awarded Secret Improv Best Comedy Show of 2016 and had this to say:
"...Since 2008, a regular troupe of trained improvisers has been putting on this beloved late-night comedy show based largely on on-the-spot audience suggestions...the intimate space feels more like hanging out in your living room with friends. There's a full bar but no drink requirement, and free Oreos!"
Q: Is the show appropriate for under 18?
A: All ages are welcome, but we generally recommend 16 and up. We never know what we will say or do but there's a good chance there will be some adult language and/or themes.
Q: Are tickets available at the door or should I buy online?
A: General seating tickets are $22.50 at the door, cash and credit accepted. However, buying online is your best deal because tickets are discounted and you're assured seating in the event of a sell-out.
Q: Where are you located (and is there parking)?
A: We're conveniently located in downtown SF at the Shelton Theater/Studios, 533 Sutter St. between Powell & Mason. Enter at street level, then go downstairs. We're in the theater on the left side of the bar. Street parking is difficult so we recommend the reasonably priced Stockton/Sutter Garage.
Q: What time should I arrive?
A: The box office and bar opens about one hour before show time. All reservations must check in at the box office no later than 5 minutes prior to show time. Simply give your name at the box office - there's no need to print your ticket, but save your confirmation email in case there's an issue. Reserved ticket holders who arrive late may be subject to standing room only or have their reservations moved to another night or later show.
Q: How long does the show last?
A: Shows run about 75-90 minutes. The 10pm show ends no later that 11:30 pm.
Q: Is there a drink minimum?
A: Enjoy the full bar with no minimum but you must be over 21 with a valid ID to purchase alcohol.
Q: We really enjoyed the show - how can we help spread the word?
A: We appreciate everyone's online reviews, especially in Tripadvisor. We're also happy to see your reviews in Yelp, Google, or Facebook.
Q: Do you offer Corporate Training or Entertainment?
A: Yes! We work with top Bay Area companies using improv as a fun way to develop relevant skills, including team building, creativity, and communication. Programs are customized to fit your needs.
For more information contact John at firstname.lastname@example.com.
Q: Do you offer classes?
A: Yes. Click the "For Hire" button above. If you want updates on our class schedule contact John at email@example.com.
Q: Do you offer group discounts for shows?
A: Yes, if space is available, we can offer discounts to groups of 16 or more. Email Toni at firstname.lastname@example.com for more information.
Have more Questions? Please contact us at


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Here's what Isabelle had to say about Dr. Rita Rakus on WhatClinic.com under
"Lip Enhancement"
Dr Rita Rakus knows about lips! She was very confident during the procedure and gave me the result I wanted to have. My asymmetrical lips are now corrected and they look beautiful and so natural. The only downside is that her filler treatments are a bit pricey. However, I will definitely recommend her treatments to anyone who wishes to get beautiful natural lips!
Here's what Jane had to say about Dr. Rita Rakus on WhatClinic.com under
"Botox and fillers"
Were you pleased with the treatment?
I have been using Dr Rakus clinic for a number of years now and I have been delighted with the standard of treatment and care. I trust her completely.
"My treatment made a fantastic difference, giving me back my youthful appearance thanks to the Lip Queen of London"
Melanie S.
"I'm 44 now. My friends are always asking what I do to keep my skin such good shape and why I don't have any wrinkles. I tell them I've been going to Dr Rakus for 10 years. Even those who were formally against having anything done - ever - have now asked me for her number!"
"Dr Rakus Clinic is a Botox® Training Centre led by Mr. Kambiz Golchin
a Key Opinion Leader for Allergan "
FREE Botox Consultation
Call +44 (0) 20 7460 7324 or
e-mail Dr Rita Rakus
"After 38 years of mental abuse, I had finally found the courage to leave my marriage. My self-esteem was non existent. I read an article in Tatler magazine aboutDr Rita Rakusand decided I would tryBotox®and Restylane. The results have been super. I am now happy to face the world on my own, feeling confident and self assured. I have since had treatments to take away fat pouches from my chin. This has also been a great success. Thank you, Dr Rita Rakus".
Catherine D.
Here's what Betta had to say about Dr. Rita Rakus on WhatClinic.com under
Excellent reception and before/after care. Dr Rita is wonderful. She listens, understands, is expert at application of treatment and also quick. I am very pleased with the clinic and the results.
"My treatment is the best investment any woman could make for herself and is better than a week in Spain".
"I first had treatments with Dr RITA RAKUS many years ago , and have since re located to Los Angeles. I have tried many different doctors and surgeons around the world for Botox and filler, however I always return to Rita. She is totally superior and I get results like this nowhere else."


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About MeI'm a private person.
Contribution Stats
Should abortion be legal? Agree 24 Apr 2013 0 Points
Does relative wealth make us happier than absolute wealth? Agree 21 Apr 2013 0 Points
Studies tend to show that relative wealth leads to excessive happiness because it behaves like a point system. That's why we shouldn't simply redistribute wealth through taxation to establish unwarranted egalitarianism, but we should rather provide basic services and opportunities to citizens to increase their motivations to succeed. We need universal college education, job training, universal healthcare (healthy citizens are happy) etc., or any other type of mechanism to encourage citizens to work to eventually accumulate wealth on their own and stimulate the economy. We must ensure that citizens can easily move to the top of the ladder without obstacles, fairly, and without wide disparities of difficulty levels. It may lead to happiness, but it's immoral to accumulate and safeguard vast quantities of wealth in a vault somewhere without using it to stimulate future economic growth. I'm an ethical socialist who promotes a free competitive market and a large work ethic.
Is God on our side in war? Disagree 20 Apr 2013 0 Points
God doesn't exist.
Should the US privatize Social Security? Disagree 20 Apr 2013 0 Points
Privatizing social security is one of the dumbest things you can do. Not only will it cause sudden volatility in the economy, it will financially ruin the disabled and the elderly. Their reliance for assistance will be left in the hands of private individuals. F... libertarians and f... these greedy corporate asses. It's unimaginable! The combined annual (just one year) salary of the top 100 richest people in the entire world can cure global poverty fourfold. That is a fact! Just the slightest increase on their tax rate will be able to solve this social security dilemma. Why do they need to obtain more money when the vast majority of their cash is currently not used? We could vastly increase education in 3rd world nations and stimulate the global economy with such money. But of course, the sad truth is that humans are inherently selfish.
Do we work unnecessarily long hours? Mostly Disagree 20 Apr 2013 0 Points
People should work their asses off. That's what stimulates the economy.
Should homosexual couples be able to adopt kids? Agree 20 Apr 2013 0 Points
Yes, they should.
Should the United States have Universal health care? Agree 20 Apr 2013 0 Points
Universal healthcare should be implemented.
Is living forever or having a greatly extended lifespan desirable? Agree 20 Apr 2013 0 Points
Yes, it is desirable.
Should prostitution be legal? Agree 20 Apr 2013 0 Points
It should be legalized and regulated by the government to ensure the prevention of venereal diseases.
Is Barack Obama a Muslim? Disagree 20 Apr 2013 0 Points
Obama comes across as a universalist/secular humanist. He self describes himself as a Christian, but I'm unsure about that. His mother was a secular humanist and his father was a strident atheist before dying.
Does government spending help mitigate a recession? Mostly Agree 20 Apr 2013 0 Points
When the government spends more, there is usually more spending on infrastructure which increases employment. Providing financial assistance to failing businesses and financially desperate individuals (through indirect or direct means) lowers prices, increases consumer confidence and increases productivity. I personally believe we should create tax breaks for the lower classes to stimulate consumer confidence and increase income mobility. I would also want to see taxes raised on the wealthy to slightly reduce the deficit after spending on infrastructure. This increased taxation will also prevent the establishment of a plutocracy, which would severely undermine democracy.
Also, instead of redistributing wealth through welfare, which hardly stimulates the economy at all, we should instead focus on providing people more job opportunities by transferring people (who are fully able to work and who are dependent on welfare) to work for a living. I personally believe that workfare is an ideal alternative than welfare. Though I do advocate helping people, I personally support the idea that you should teach the person to help themselves. That's why we should increase government funding for job training facilities and increase employment incentives. Hence the famous phrase:
Is suicide morally acceptable? Agree 12 Feb 2013 1 Point
Touchy subject. Depending on the circumstance, suicide is morally permissible.
Is hope good? Agree 12 Feb 2013 0 Points
Hope is what makes people persevere and potentially thrive. It keeps people strong.
Does God exist? Disagree 12 Feb 2013 1 Point
Is there life after death? Disagree 12 Feb 2013 0 Points
Long story short after much research and investigation into the matter: NO. An afterlife does not exist.
Should the federal government ban gay marriage? Disagree 23 Jan 2013 0 Points
Gays deserve freedom from religious oppression. They deserve the right to get married.
Is optimism rational? Mostly Agree 23 Jan 2013 0 Points
Optimism increases mental health and decreases anxiety. In this sense, it can augment rational thinking especially if someone is taking a test during class. However in certain scenarios,, as it is so called, can deceive someone to see life through rose colored glasses or to analyze possible events with sheer delusional anticipation.
Is the war on drugs good policy? Disagree 23 Jan 2013 0 Points
The war on drugs is increasing our debt.
Is the theory of evolution falsified by fossil evidence? Disagree 23 Jan 2013 1 Point
Creationists are clueless.
Do Muslims have the right to build a mosque near ground zero? Agree 23 Jan 2013 1 Point
Yes. Muslims have the right to do what ever their conscience tells them as long as it doesn't force a nonbeliever into submission and compliance to their religious belief. The constitution guarantees religious freedom under the first amendment while promoting secularism and separation between government and religion.
Should abortion be legal? Agree 29 Sep 2012 0 Points
I find it ironic that Christians oppose abortion when God commanded the Israelis to rip open the stomachs of pregnant women when they were pillaging and destroying cities (Hosea 13:16; 2 Kings 15:16; 1 Samuel 15:3 ). The Bible also says that God favors the man who dashes babies against the rocks, thus inhumanely killing them (Psalms 137:8-9). The termis a substantially erroneous misnomer for a Christian to bolster when God is evidently pro-murder.
If God was truly pro life, why does he naturally terminate the fetus during a miscarriage? Abortion should be legal because it's a civil rights issue, not a religious issue. Stop enforcing your vacuous religious beliefs to effectively modify politics the way you deem fit.
Is democracy the best form of government? Mostly Agree 14 Dec 2011 0 Points
A democracy is a good type of government only if it is regulated by constitutional laws and rights to ensure that the majority doesn't abuse their privileged power. In other words, let's say that we were to establish a secular government which encourages and guarantees religious freedom and equality. If the majority of the nation are fundamentalist Christians, and if they desire to teach creationism in school, we should create a constitutional law to create a separation of church and state to further protect the majority from abusing their large influence on public policy, automatically abolishing them from granting their wishes because of their large political influence to legalize creationism in school.
Of course, we all know intelligent design and creationism can't be taught in public schools because public schools are part of the public sector which is controlled by the government. And if schools were allowed to teach intelligent design, the government would be promoting religious ideas which violates the concept of the separation of church and state and secularism.
Does God exist? Mostly Disagree 05 Dec 2011 0 Points
Well now that you affirm your belief in the literal account of the Book of Genesis, let me ask you a question: Why did God need to place the tree of knowledge of good and evil in the midst of the garden if God fully knew that Adam and Eve would be deceived to partake of its fruit thus causing the fall of man to induce all universal suffering? After all God is omniscient. So when he commanded Adam to not eat the fruit, God fully knew that it would cause the Fall of man and the entirety of universal suffering. God made everything perfect, but since God is all knowing and omniscient, he fully knew that if he placed such a magical tree in the midst of Eden, that Adam and Eve would bring about all of the imperfections of the universe because of their careless choices. This leads me to conclude two main reasons why God did such a thing:
1. God loves to test his creations while enjoying occasional suffering. After all if God wanted to automatically prevent Adam from being deceived, he would instantly annihilate Satan and his minions from even testing Adam's innocence.
2. Or... God is an imperfect and completely incompetent buffoon.
Also I can't choose to accept the God of the Bible. After all, there are too many flaws and contradictions within the Bible. The Bible endorses child abuse, genocide, and unscientific claims.
The Bible explains that the earth is a circle, which we all know circles are flat. - (Isaiah 40:22)
To contradict that particular verse, the Bible affirms that the earth is a square:
Isaiah 11:12
12 And he shall set up an ensign for the nations, and shall assemble the outcasts of Israel, and gather together the dispersed of Judah from the FOUR CORNERS OF THE EARTH. (KJV)
Revelation 7:1
1 And after these things I saw four angels standing on FOUR CORNERS OF THE EARTH, holding the four winds of the earth, that the wind should not blow on the earth, nor on the sea, nor on any tree. (KJV)
Job 38:13
13 That it might take hold of the ENDS OF THE EARTH, that the wicked might be shaken out of it? (KJV)
Jeremiah 16:19
19 O LORD, my strength, and my fortress, and my refuge in the day of affliction, the Gentiles shall come unto thee from the ENDS OF THE EARTH, and shall say, Surely our fathers have inherited lies, vanity, and things wherein there is no profit. (KJV)
Daniel 4:11
11 The tree grew, and was strong, and the height thereof reached unto heaven, and the sight thereof to the ENDS OF ALL THE EARTH: (KJV)
Matthew 4:8
8 Again, the devil taketh him up into an exceeding high mountain, and sheweth him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them; (KJV)
Another verse says the earth sits upon pillars or columns - (1 Samuel 2:8)
The Bible promotes the murdering of babies:
(Hosea 13:16 & Psalms 137:9)
It mentions unfulfilled prophecies made by Jesus:
Matthew 16:28
Matthew 24:34.
And he said to them, Mark 9:1
Are people getting stupider? Mostly Disagree 23 Nov 2011 0 Points
According to the Flynn effect, people living across the world are dramatically increasing their IQ. The reason for this is possibly because of an increase in online education or better nutrition for people living in 3rd world nations. However, I would say that willful ignorance is more rampant and more abundant than ever before. But of course, ignorance and intelligence are two different things.
By the way isn't a word.
Can abortion significantly reduce crime? Agree 23 Nov 2011 1 Point
Aborting babies whose parents are intellectually primitive incorrigibles will obviously reduce crime. I'm sorry if I should offend people, but statistics agree.
Does religion encourage good behavior? Mostly Disagree 23 Nov 2011 2 Points
Most moderate and eastern religions can encourage happiness, well being and extremely moral behavior. However certain forms of religious extremism have hindered societal and scientific progress by discouraging civil liberties and scientific exploration. Religious extremism usually justifies bigotry and intolerance against selected groups of people, such as homosexuals and nonbelievers. We can not advance humanity if most religions of the world teach intolerance against certain kinds of people. Most of the world's ills are caused by religions.
Also if one examines the research done by the Global Peace Index you will find that the majority of secular nations that have high populations of atheists tend to be more peaceful. Isn't it a little weird that the only two South American nations that have the highest population of atheists in South America are more peaceful according to the Global Peace Index? The South American nations that I speak of are Argentina and Uruguay. Yet it's highly strange that the remaining South American nations are less peaceful. Just look at Uruguay and Argentina from this map which shows the importance of religiosity of various countries: link
Atheistic nations are more peaceful. Here's the link to prove this: link.
Also, more religious states in the United States, such as the states found in the Bible belt of the south, all demonstrate higher teen pregnancy rates, higher homicide rates, higher illiteracy rates, and lower IQ rates. Here's the links to prove this: link link
Also, here's a whole collection of studies concerning atheists that might surprise you: link
Is Islam fundamentally a peaceful religion? Disagree 23 Nov 2011 1 Point
Islamic fundamentalism is a dangerous ideology because it interprets the holy books of Islam literally. The quran and the hadith have many passages that condone unjust violence against the Jews and it justifies the murder of infidels and nonbelievers. Any type of religious fundamentalism, especially the fundamentalist alternatives of monotheistic religions, all teach strict adherence to absurd doctrines and literal interpretations of scriptures while promoting unjust bigotry and cruel opposition to science and civil liberties.
Will solar be the biggest energy source of the future? Agree 21 Nov 2011 1 Point
It's very likely that solar energy will be a major source of usable energy before 2040-2100. According to the Kardashev scale (which is a method for measuring a civilization's progress by analyzing the technological progress and energy consumption of a civilization), all types of alternative energy ranging from solar and nuclear energy will be used before the next 100-200 years. Also my hypothesis is that if humanity survives for another 50 or 100 years, we will have a global government that will ensure that humanity will peacefully cooperate. This global government will bring about a technological utopia, possibly with AIs governing and regulating the world's affairs. I think the establishment of this one world government will happen sometime before or after the technological singularity. So the years for the establishment of this world government are roughly between 2030-2060. Also I believe that many luddites and religious extremists will strongly oppose the one world government and the technological advancements that will be invented leading to a world war.
Is truth relative? Disagree 21 Nov 2011 0 Points
Truth is always absolute and objective, regardless of other people's misconceptions about the validity of truth
Should Intelligent Design be taught in science class? Disagree 21 Nov 2011 1 Point
Intelligent design is mainly a form of religious creationism, and if it were taught in public schools (which are government owned institutions) it would violate the separation of church and state found in the first amendment of the united states constitution.
Are gun control laws a serious breach of civil liberties? Agree 21 Nov 2011 0 Points
Gun control laws are a violation of the constitution and civil liberties. I support the right to protect and arm yourself in case of danger.
Is morality objective? Agree 21 Nov 2011 0 Points
Morality that is based upon common sense is always objective independent of any religious or cultural bias favoring a particular social norm above another norm. That's why we need to obliterate these cultural and religious obstacles and biases if we are going to use our own intellect in establishing moral values that will benefit society. Using a set of moral codes found in primitive holy books will never advance humanity, but it will always stifle and hinder progress. The reason why religious morals will never benefit humanity is because they all contradict each other. And we know that contradictions between different groups of people and their opposing ideologies will always lead to conflict and strife. We must throw away our cultural and religious biases when analyzing and applying moral values to our lives. Any rational and sane person will establish the exact same moral standards without relying on the religions or cultural biases found throughout the world. If there is a discrepancy between moral judgements, it's because of the existence of illogical or intellectually inferior judgements.
But overall, my position is that there is a certain type of moral objectivity that we humans are unaware of because of our limited scope of knowledge and the cultural biases that we hold. We must overcome such ignorance and preconceived notions in order to become truly moral creatures.
However, I will not deny that there are certain types of moral values that would be on the gray side instead of being purely black or white. To me, that false notion of is actually objective in nature. Of course the sane person would deny rape to be subjectively bad because it shows that morality is objective. In the same sense that the sane person would always OBJECTIVELY find murder to be permissible in certain scenarios, such as killing a serial killer to save a whole family. For example, during the holocaust, only the intellectually and morally bankrupt person would allow a whole family of Jews to be turned in to the Nazis because he refuses to lie to the gestapo to save their lives.
I believe in utilitarianism and consequentialism for my code of ethics.
My moral standards are as follows:
Anything that is mutually beneficial is the most morally superior action. Anything that is altruistic, where you are sacrificing your life or effort for another person or another group, is moral. Anything that is selfish or hedonistic is immoral (but sometimes moral). Whereas anything that is mutually harmful or detrimental or more disastrous is the most immoral action there is.
In order to understand and decide the moral worth of an action, one must objectively understand and hypothesize all of the possible future consequences of such an action. And after concluding the future possible consequences of a future action, one can reasonably use that moral comprehension to objectively make a moral and intelligent decision.
Should gay and straight couples have the same legal benefits? Agree 21 Nov 2011 0 Points
Gays should have the same legal rights and benefits just like anybody else. I'm a huge supporter of civil liberties.
Is free trade generally beneficial for a country? Agree 20 Nov 2011 1 Point
Free trade is beneficial for the cooperation and foreign affairs between nations. It also increases the revenue and welfare of a nation. I'm a strong opponent of protectionism.
Should abortion be legal? Agree 19 Nov 2011 0 Points
Abortion should be legalized. I believe the woman has every right to terminate the fetus if she feels like the child or the mother's health is at risk or if she can't financially support the caring of the child.
Are America's rich taxed enough? Disagree 19 Nov 2011 0 Points
The super rich today pays over 50% of their earnings to the government. What it really boils down to is that the government needs to stop spending so much. They need to cut spending and legalize things that shouldn't be illegalized so the government can gain an increase in their revenue. Legalize marijuana or legalize prostitution so the government can stop spending everything they earn on a large prison population. Now I'm not against taxes but I wish the government would minimize their revenue spending.
Is capitalism good? Mostly Agree 19 Nov 2011 2 Points
Capitalism is very productive in the market world, but it is not successful for providing necessities and universal access to health care, education, police, etc. But overall capitalism is excellent for increasing innovation and productivity in the work force. I believe in somewhat of a mixed economy, but I lean more towards promoting a larger expanse of the private sector where businesses are free to compete and operate for profit.
Is free will an illusion? Disagree 19 Nov 2011 0 Points
I'm a compatibilist. I believe in both free will and determinism. Anybody with a brain would agree.
Is intelligent extraterrestrial life common in our galaxy? Mostly Disagree 19 Nov 2011 0 Points
The possibility that extraterrestrial life exists in our universe is highly rare. And it is extremely rare for advanced extraterrestrial civilizations to exist. But do I deny its possibility? No. It's extremely possible, but highly unlikely. Evolution is a slow process and abiogenesis is a very unlikely process.
Should marijuana be legal? Agree 19 Nov 2011 1 Point
Marijuana should be legal due to several reasons. First legalizing marijuana allows more freedom for people to participate in activities that provide escapism and pleasure. Secondly, legalizing marijuana will reduce the crime rate and abolish the drug wars. Thirdly, legalizing marijuana will allow the prison population to decrease, thus allowing the country to increase its revenue because of its decreased expenditures on its prison population.
Is monogamy natural for humans? Mostly Disagree 19 Nov 2011 1 Point
I'm mixed on this issue. I believe that monogamous relationships are more beneficial for the cooperation of the partners. I don't really believe in legalized polygamy because I believe that women are more likely to be highly inclusive and men more protective, so this will cause strife amongst the different partners. However, I will allow anybody to have multiple partners if they desire to participate in multiple sexual relationships. But I will always oppose legalized polygamy or polygyny. Also, I don't believe it'sto have a monogamous relationship because other species of animals have multiple partners. So overall, I disagree that monogamy is . To me it's just a way for humans to build social constructs.
Is global warming caused primarily by humans? Mostly Agree 19 Nov 2011 1 Point
It is a known scientific fact that global warming occurs because the earth occasionally goes through warming and cooling periods. But the thing that bothers me is that the earth's temperature has been substantially rising ever since the beginning of the industrial revolution, which makes me speculate if the burning of fossils fuels or the emission of certain chemicals are causing the dramatic increase in the earth's temperature. However, I am unsure if human activity is a major component for causing global warming, but I'm going to believe that it is on the basis of my current understanding of the evidence. I believe that more scientific evidence needs to be evaluated and tested to see if the majority of global warming is caused by human activity. The right wing's hatred for science and their constant conspiracy theories should be avoided if we are to fully comprehend the dire consequences and nature of global warming. We should continue to promote scientific exploration and not believe that global warming is a conspiracy created by Al Gore. Scientific progress is based on empirical research and continual testing. It's not based on a total rejection of the scientific evidence. We should ignore the Republican Party's hatred for science if we are going to fully save humanity from destroying itself. In the mean time, we should start by using alternative and renewable energy.
My beliefs on what I've read so far about global warming is that global warming is mostly caused by human activity.
Is the Earth approximately 6000 years old? (as opposed to 4.5 billion) Disagree 17 Nov 2011 0 Points
The earth is definitely not 6,000 years old. Religions are just superstitions and delusions. All creation myths found in all religions and mythologies have been disproven with the abundance of scientific knowledge. Many dating techniques used to determine the age of the earth have all showed a substantial and large age for the earth.
Should atheists directly challenge religious beliefs? Agree 09 Oct 2011 0 Points
Atheists have every right to question or challenge other people's beliefs because they should have free speech. Theists also have every right to challenge atheistic positions because they too should have free speech.
Does God exist? Disagree 09 Oct 2011 0 Points
It is impossible to know if God can exist or not, because currently, the scientific method cannot disprove nor prove the existence of God. So far, religious books such as the Bible and the Quran have not met their burden of proof by proving the existence of God.
Also, the person who must prove God is the person who is making the nonsensical claim that God exists- without even proving or justifying that claim.
The burden of proof does not rest on the person who questions or rejects such insanely nonsensical claims.
Is humanity likely doomed to destroy itself? Mostly Agree 09 Oct 2011 0 Points
Benja, it's been proven by studies that optimistic people are more productive and are more likely to tackle problems with courage(1)(2). Pessimistic people are usually the kind of people who aren't willing to help humanity, because they sit around the house and sulk everyday while wasting their life away.
I strongly doubt that pessimists are aiding in progressing humanity further.
Being a realist/optimist is the best way of looking at the world-in my opinion.
1. M. Scheier, C. Carver, M. Bridges. Optimism & Pessimism: Implications for Theory, Research, and Practice. Ed. E. Chang. Washington, DC: American Psychological Association, 2001: 189-216.
Is humanity likely doomed to destroy itself? Mostly Agree 07 Oct 2011 0 Points
Well, I'm a very productive and optimistic person. I was referring to the majority of humanity in general.
Is humanity likely doomed to destroy itself? Mostly Agree 06 Oct 2011 1 Point
My hypothesis is that all extraterrestrial civilizations in our universe are prone to extinction due to their lack of progress and peace. Many galactic civilizations end in destruction because of their desire to promote unjust acts of destruction by technological means (terrorism) or by their personal desire to avoid cooperation and their hatred of wisdom. Because NASA hasn't yet confirmed the existence of highly advanced extraterrestrial civilizations (or type 1 or type 2 civilizations), it is likely that such civilizations are very rare in our universe because they have possibly annihilated themselves before they could even reach such magnificent points of progress. It is unquestionably likely that our civilization will end in disaster also because of our reluctance to change for the better.
Is a technological singularity likely? Mostly Agree 06 Oct 2011 0 Points
The technological singularity is likely to happen in the middle of the 21st Century.
Are politicians generally good people? Mostly Disagree 06 Oct 2011 0 Points
The inhabitants of a free country have every right to question the legitimacy of the authority of world leaders, because the majority of politicians who gain power or are elected into office, usually have the inclination to abuse their authority by legalizing unconstitutional laws and by preventing the citizens from living a peaceful life. All political authority and deception must be questioned to prevent tyranny and coersion.
The similarity between Nashhinton and each expert and influencer is calculated by looking at how the same questions were answered. These figures are used to calculate conforming, nonconforming, and projected opinions. The accuracy of the analysis depends on Nashhinton's coverage, which grows with the number of their opinions entered into TakeOnIt.
AgreeAyn Rand
Philosopher, Novelist
82% agreement / 10 opinions
The Economist
Politics and Business Magazine
91% agreement / 6 opinions
Milton Friedman
Iconic Economist of 20th Century
83% agreement / 6 opinions
Eliezer Yudkowsky
Artificial Intelligence Researcher
100% agreement / 6 opinions
Richard Dawkins
Evolutionary Biologist, Writer, Atheism Activist
100% agreement / 5 opinions
Sam Harris
Writer, Speaker, Atheism Activist
100% agreement / 5 opinions
Mostly AgreeBarack Obama
United States President
67% agreement / 17 opinions
Robin Hanson
Economics Professor
71% agreement / 14 opinions
Hillary Clinton
US Secretary of State 2009-, Democrat
78% agreement / 7 opinions
Bill Maher
Political T.V. Host, Comedian
65% agreement / 5 opinions
Kenneth Miller
Biology Professor, Christian
75% agreement / 4 opinions
American Civil Liberties Union
(ACLU) Lobbyist
75% agreement / 4 opinions
In-BetweenJohn McCain
U.S. Senator, Republican
52% agreement / 9 opinions
Ron Paul
U.S. Politician, Libertarian
45% agreement / 6 opinions
Donald Trump
American Business Magnate
60% agreement / 5 opinions
Albert Einstein
Physicist, Icon of the 20th Century
55% agreement / 5 opinions
Bertrand Russell
Iconic Philosopher of 20th Century
56% agreement / 4 opinions
Kevin Rudd
Australian Prime Minister, 2007-2010
43% agreement / 4 opinions
Mostly DisagreeThe Catholic Church
Largest Christian Church
22% agreement / 10 opinions
Christian Encyclopedia
25% agreement / 8 opinions
Friedrich Nietzsche
Iconic Philosopher of 19th Century
40% agreement / 5 opinions
M. Zuhdi Jasser
President of American Islamic Forum, U.S. Navy L. Commander
25% agreement / 2 opinions
Mitt Romney
Former Governor of Massachusetts
37% agreement / 2 opinions
Roy Spencer
25% agreement / 2 opinions
DisagreeSarah Palin
Former Governor of Alaska (Republican)
19% agreement / 9 opinions
Osama Bin Laden
Former Leader of Al Qaeda
9% agreement / 5 opinions
George W. Bush
United States President 2001-2009
18% agreement / 4 opinions
Peter Joseph
Movie Producer
12% agreement / 2 opinions
Old Testament
Bible for Jews and Christians
12% agreement / 2 opinions
Ann Coulter
Political Commentator
0% agreement / 2 opinions
Nashhinton's conforming opinions are opinions that align with the group of experts and influencers Nashhinton typically agrees with.
|Does God exist?
|Should atheists directly challenge religious beliefs?
|Should abortion be legal?
|Is free trade generally beneficial for a country?
|Is there life after death?
|Is truth relative?
|Should marijuana be legal?
|Mostly Agree
|Is a technological singularity likely?
|Mostly Disagree
|Are politicians generally good people?
|Mostly Disagree
|Does religion encourage good behavior?
|Is living forever or having a greatly extended lifespan desirable?
|Are America's rich taxed enough?
|Is Islam fundamentally a peaceful religion?
|Should prostitution be legal?
|Mostly Agree
|Is democracy the best form of government?
|Does relative wealth make us happier than absolute wealth?
|Should Intelligent Design be taught in science class?
|Is morality objective?
|Should the United States have Universal health care?
|Mostly Disagree
|Is intelligent extraterrestrial life common in our galaxy?
|Do Muslims have the right to build a mosque near ground zero?
|Can abortion significantly reduce crime?
|Should gay and straight couples have the same legal benefits?
|Is the Earth approximately 6000 years old? (as opposed to 4.5 billion)
|Is the theory of evolution falsified by fossil evidence?
|Mostly Agree
|Is humanity likely doomed to destroy itself?
|Will solar be the biggest energy source of the future?
|Mostly Disagree
|Do we work unnecessarily long hours?
|Is Barack Obama a Muslim?
Nashhinton's nonconforming opinions are opinions that contradict the group of experts and influencers Nashhinton typically agrees with.
|Group Answer
|Contributor Answer
|Mostly Agree
|Is global warming caused primarily by humans?
|Mostly Disagree
|Is the war on drugs good policy?
|Mostly Agree
|Does government spending help mitigate a recession?
|Mostly Disagree
|Is free will an illusion?
|Mostly Agree
|Is capitalism good?
|Mostly Disagree
|Are people getting stupider?
|Mostly Agree
|Is optimism rational?
|Mostly Disagree
|Should the federal government ban gay marriage?
|Mostly Disagree
|Are gun control laws a serious breach of civil liberties?
Nashhinton's projected opinions are opinions Nashhinton is expected to have if their opinions align with the experts and influencers that they typically agree with.
|Did complex life evolve through the process of natural selection?
|Mostly Disagree
|Does minimum wage help the poor?
|Mostly Agree
|Is self-deception a fault?
|Does Cap and Trade beat carbon tax for reducing emissions?
|Can science prove or disprove the existence of God?
|Does astrology work (is personality correlated with the positions of celestial bodies at birth)?
|Mostly Agree
|Should the US close Guantanamo Bay?
|Is the death penalty acceptable?
|Is God just?
|Mostly Disagree
|Is Yucca mountain the best place to store nuclear waste?
|Mostly Agree
|Is cryonics worthwhile?
|Does money make you happy? (specifically: absolute spending power)
|Do we have an immaterial soul?
|Mostly Agree
|Is it plausible that we're living in a simulation?
|Mostly Agree
|Should flag burning be legal?
|Mostly Disagree
|Does everything happen for a reason?
|Are the core truths of science and religion complementary?
|Mostly Agree
|Should the United States invade Iraq?
|Is the IPCC objective?
|Mostly Agree
|Could a computer ever be conscious?
|Mostly Agree
|Would the world be better off without the Catholic Church?
|Mostly Agree
|Is "ought" derived from "is"?
|Mostly Agree
|Would invading Iraq result in a quagmire?
|Does Iraq possess weapons of mass destruction?
|Is the unconscious philosophical zombie possible?
|Is gold a good hedge?
|Must God exist to explain how the universe began?
|Does life have a meaning?
|Can we handle the truth?
|Does homeopathy work?
|Did the US Government play a part in the 9/11 attacks?
|Will the WikiLeaks cable leaks do more harm than good?
|Should psychoactive drugs be legal?
|Mostly Agree
|Is efficient market theory the best approximation of the truth for the average investor?
|Mostly Agree
|Is Geoengineering a good strategy to combat global warming?
|Do Gödellian arguments refute a computational model of the mind?
|Mostly Agree
|Should the burka be banned?
|Can the US military presence in Iraq help create democracy?
|Should the US Government bail out car companies?
|Is the many worlds interpretation of quantum mechanics correct?
|Should the world embrace nuclear energy?
|Have solar cycles significantly affected earth's recent climate?
|Mostly Disagree
|Does cosmic radiation significantly affect earth's climate?
|Is information-theoretic death the most real interpretation of death?
|Mostly Disagree
|Are our enemies innately evil?
|Is affirmative action fair?
|Is Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac a huge risk to the economy?
|Mostly Agree
|Was the US government's $700 billion bailout ultimately good for the taxpayer?
|Mostly Disagree
|Should marijuana be decriminalized?
|Will energy scarcity cause a severe world depression?
|Has feminism gone too far?
|Mostly Agree
|Should the US president talk face to face with Iran's president?
|Is Russia's invasion of Georgia justified?
|Mostly Disagree
|Is the health risk of a psychoactive drug a legitimate reason to make it illegal?
|Does drug prohibition reduce drug usage?
|Will Barack Obama win the Democratic nomination?
|Is quantum mechanics needed to explain consciousness?
|Mostly Disagree
|Is creativity overrated?
|Is truthfulness a characteristic of a politician who is good for the people?


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Classics of famous photos in Lego
Neat collection of classic moments recreated in lego. (via kottke.org)
Lego keeps every single set they have released in a secret vault
Did you know that Lego keeps a copy of every single set they have released in a secret vault? This includes some of the best Lego sets in history.
Making of the Lego brick
Following my post on Lego bricks 50 years of achievement, Business Week has published a slide show featuring the making of a Lego brick.
Happy 50th birthday, LEGO
On Jan 28, 1958, the first Lego brick was produced. I remember the days where I spent hours on Lego bricks building structures from the guide and inventing my own ways. Here's a time line of Lego Brick 50 years of achievements.
By the way, Google is also celebrating Lego 50 years anniversary with beautiful Google logo designed like Lego bricks.


text:
Vedder Tuesday ⅩⅥ: Undone
I asked my favorite adult human for help choosing today's VT. He came through:
Last stop on the West Coast line
South of the northern border,
One small corner -- home tonight
Everybody, they know me there
Don't get any second glances
Chances are that they don't care
The world has come undone
Like to change it everyday
Change don't come at once
There's a wave building before it breaks
Can't wait for election day
Witness the occupation:
Corporations rule the day
Well, you know the pendulum throws
Farther out to the one side swinging
Has to sweep back the other way
The world has come undone
Another day and who can wait?
Change don't come at once
It's a wave building before it breaks
All this hope and nowhere to go;
This is how I used to feel -- but no more!
The world has come undone
Like a game, if you can play
Change don't come from one:
It's a wave building before it breaks
Keep pushing the pendulum, dear friends. Don't lose hope in hope. The wave hasn't broken yet -- but I've got my surfboard ready.
Back next week!


text:
Johannesburg - There were cheers and applause when Judge Corrie van der Westhuizen granted Sanef an interdict against Black First Land First (BLF) and its leader Andile Mngxitama on Friday morning.
"Media freedom! Media freedom!" chanted members of South African National Editors Forum (Sanef) at the South Gauteng High Court.
According to the judgment, Mngxitama and BLF are interdicted from engaging in any of the following acts directed towards the applicants: intimidation; harassment; assaults; threats; going to their homes or acting in any manner that would constitute an infringement of their personal liberty.
Outside the courtroom, journalists clashed with BLF members. In the midst of all the commotion, Mngxitama shouted: "Karima (Brown), you are not white! You are black!"
Security was forced to intervene and escort all parties outside of the building using separate lifts.
Eusebius McKaiser, political analyst and broadcaster, described the judgment as brilliant on Twitter.
He then went on Facebook to say: "Media freedom is crucial to the health of our democracy. Lawlessness has no place in the making of our nascent society."
Mngxitama declared to fellow members that they will not stop protesting against journalists.
Cope leader, Mosiuoa Lekota - who also attended the hearing - was confronted by BLF members for declaring his support for Sanef on twitter earlier.
Mngxitama said Lekota was "a house negro who has been rejected by black people".
Mngxitama utterances were in contradiction to a clause in the interdict that states him and his party were prohibited from making any threatening or intimidating gestures on social media, including on the website of BLF and their individual twitter pages that reference and violence, harm and threats.
Judge van der Westhuizen highlighted the use of the words 'askari' and 'settler', stating that they were used with the intention to cause harm.
He also denounced the claim by the BLF that an innocent understanding of such language was to be ascribed.
"Such language is clearly a reference to the historical context thereof."
The BLF has been instructed to issue a public statement to all members of Sanef that they do not condone any of the acts of intimidation, harassment, assaults and threats directed to any journalist.
These statements are to be issued within twelve hours of the granting of the order.
In a statement released by Sanef, the organisation "rejects BLF's deplorable attempts to racially divide the journalistic fraternity. This has been a unifying moment for all journalists in the country and further motivation to do what we believe in: exposing injustice and wrongdoing, irrespective of colour or creed.
"We are defending more than media freedom. We are defending the personal freedoms of every South African. Sanef chairperson Mahlatse Gallens welcomed the interdict as a reinforcement of the rule of law and a strong statement against anyone who wants to muzzle the media."
The Star


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Ford will strut its stuff internationally at the Paris Auto Show later this month. The automaker announced this week that it would introduce the global range of Focus automobiles at the show.
The star on Ford's stage will undoubtedly be the high-performance Focus ST. This more powerful version of Ford's compact car will get the 2-liter EcoBoost 4-cylinder engine, which relies on a combination of direct injection, turbocharging and variable valve timing to generate 246 horsepower. The show car will be finished in a new body color called Tangerine Scream. The Focus ST is slated to have its United States introduction in early 2012.
Joining the ST in Ford's Paris show will be the sedan, a hatchback and wagon versions of the new Focus. All body styles will be built on the C-segment platform for every market. That means that American buyers will, for the first time, be offered a Focus that is at least very similar to the version sold in Europe.
But the United States market will not be getting the Focus wagon, said a Ford spokesman, Mark Schirmer. The Focus sedan and hatchback are expected in American showrooms early next year.
The global Focus is part of the automaker's "One Ford" strategy, which is designed to achieve more product uniformity around the world. The C-segment platform will account for a large part of that strategy and will be under at least 10 global vehicles by 2012.
In addition to the four Focus models, Ford will show hatchback and wagon versions of a new Mondeo, C-Max and Grand C-Max. Of these, only the Grand C-Max will be available in North America, and it will reportedly be arriving in showrooms by late 2011.


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Marsèll Women's
Coltello Inverno Boot
$ 698.00 $ 998.00Free US shipping and returns.
Marsell's Coltello Inferno Boot is designed with a zipper on the back heel and an incredibly soft leather interior for increased comfort.
- Round toe. Leather lining.
- Stacked heel. 1.75" heel (approximately).
- Made in Italy.
Color black. 100% leather.
US orders include a return shipping label in your package for your convenience. Please note that sale items are eligible for exchange or store credit only, and items marked 50% off or more are final sale.
Please visit our client care page for more information on returning an item. Questions? Call our client care manager, Anna Wallace, at 206.448.4077


text:
Related Products
The Silvia is the latest addition to the Roxy Spring/Summer Footwear collection 2015. These Sandals for Women feature a synthetic upper and a wrap detail. Other special characteristics include a Roxy metal heart Roxy logo and a composition of Upper: 98% PU/2% Metal, Lining: 100% Polyester, Outsole: 100% TPR. Size: 6.


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Men sentenced to prison for smuggling tropical fishPosted by Kristopher Woods on Feb 29, 2016 in Criminal Defence, Law | Comments Off on Men sentenced to prison for smuggling tropical fish
In Los Angeles, a former resident of West Hill was sentenced to one year of federal prison for trying to export protected tropical fish without a permit into Canada.
On his testimony stand, Isaac Zimerman, age of 66, apologized to the court and begged to let him remain free. Click here for navigate to this web-site. But, U.S. District Judge Otis Wright II wasn't too affected with his plea and granted the sentence, one year behind bars. This sentence also includes enhancement, because Zimerman fled prosecution seven years ago. He was to be taken immediately to federal custody and this decision shocked his family members.
Zimerman's attorney tried to object, but the judge cut him off. He was extradited last September from Mexico to face charges, charging him for illegal trafficking of protected tropical fish.
Diana M. Kwok, assistant of U.S. Attorney, stated that he built a successful business and that he was well known in those circles, his business consisted out of possession and sales of wildlife. And it was his choice to fled in Mexico.
During his testimony, Zimermant admitted that he had a large amount of South American freshwater fish, which he intended to sell and ship outside of California. He was also accused of false testimony, obstruction of justice, forged of documentation and while he was on pretrial release, he smuggled from Peru Arapaima gigas without a proper federal documentation.
He was arrested the last year near Matepec in Mexico. He changed the appearance so he could avoid prosecution. Mexican government permitted for him to be extradited to the U.S. based on two charges.
His wife has also been sentenced in 2011 to 21 month of probation and fined with $1,500. States that these cases are common, where family takes participation in criminal activities.


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As I had quickly learned on my first and second days in Sihanoukville, Cambodia's third most-popular city is a great little beach resort but a bit dull as a P4P destination. By my Day 3, I'd come to the conclusion that making another run out to Victory Hill, or anywhere else besides the beach and the Freedom Bar, was going to be a waste of time.
So I made some decisions: First I booked a day of scuba diving that would require me to get up a 7 a.m. (and, thus, go to bed early and alone the night before) and then bought a bus ticket back to Phnom Penh, where I'd spent the previous Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights. Then I decided to hit Freedom Bar again, but – this time – earlier. It would turn out to be the best nightlife move I'd made all week.
I started the night like I wish I could start my nights here in Thailand: On the beach, drinking 50 cent draft and downing a mountain of fresh fish barbecue for $3. I then strolled back along the white sand back to my hotel, changed and hit Freedom around 9 p.m.
There were more girls here tonight including some I hadn't seen and one, in particular, I'd seen and had spoken only a few words to all week. In the previous episode, I'd dubbed her The Queen. To narcissistically quote myself:
Tall, thin and in what seemed to be her uniform of white levis, mid-drift top and a Clara Bow flapper hat, she fluttered around the bar playing pretty much wherever she wanted, flirting with all the guys and collecting or handing out the odd dollar to other girls. She was more interesting than sexy and had a presence that rewarded her with at least one customer a night.
As I noted in my first Snooky dispatch, there was one particularly sad individual I dubbed Mr. Desperate, who seemed to follow her around Sihanoukville, rarely taking his eyes off her and unsuccessfully trying to regain her affections, which he'd obviously enjoyed at some point before, but was now deemed out-of-favor by Her Highness.
Me? I was intrigued, but I was not going to chase her around. So I decided to do what any fat, mid-40s guy would do to attract the bar's top-totty: Lean up against the bar, try to look cool and make only one or two flirty remarks a night until she approached me. Dumb eh?
Well, this time it actually worked. In between shots of playing pool, she wandered over to joke and then came back to chat. Game done, she invited me for an audience at her table where two French guys were already sitting. One didn't seem very happy to meet me.
The Queen Gets a New Nickname
I offered her a 75-cent beer – big spender that I am – and we started chatting, specifically about the Clara Bow hat, which covered up all her hair. Why does she wear that every night? I just had to know. Lifting up the hat, I had my answer and she had a new nickname:
The Monk.
Sure enough, she had less hair than I do after my monthly electric-clippers-on-2 haircut. Seems she's just recently finished a stint in a temple, or monastery, or wherever females go to be monks. As I teased her about life without cigarettes, booze or sex she admitted that, in fact, she didn't turn out to be a very good monk. Not sure how many of the vices she didn't give up.
Looking around the bar, I then noticed another girl I'd seen twice with a long scarf around her head. I'm now thinking Freedom is Snooky's official ex-monk hooker bar.
The Monk was as hard of a whore as you'll find in Cambodia and would have been right at home at the back tables in Gulliver's on Soi 5. She even adopted a Western name: Sofia. She had three pairs of genuine white Levi's which she wore each day and tight little mid-drifts. But she spoke great English, turned out not to be a snob at all and I decided my hunt for the night was over. More 75-cent beers please.
The hat subject dispensed with, I just had to know about Mr. Desperate, whose picture I snapped and seem to have deleted before I could write this, sorry. Yup, he was a former customer. No, contrary to my assumptions, he didn't live in Snooky. Only here for five weeks. He picked up Sofia the first week or so, spent four nights with her and fell in love. He asked, then begged, for her to live with him the full five weeks. He was, of course, a Cheap Charlie, but even if the money was good, Sofia said, she wouldn't have done it. Too clingy. So now she simply ignores him as he follows her from bar to bar.
He, too, seemed none too pleased that I was sitting at her table.
Me? I was loving it.
By now, we're both getting a bit drunk on cheap Khmer beer and the French guy sitting next to me – who had thought he'd be leaving with The Queen Monk – was sitting glumly as his fellow Frog auditioned lower-tier Freedom girls. Sofia, who'd gotten only one beer off the guy, didn't even seem to notice his red face when she suggested she and I head back to the beach.
Dolphin Shack, of course. This time we sat outside on low benches on the sand. She danced a lot (me a little), drank even more and then got into powder-throwing antics with other drunk Freedom girls who'd arrived. Quickly approaching that point where the Anchor (either one) would completely debilitate my hydraulics, I suggested we mosey on back to my place for a shower and whatever came next.
Shags and Showers
The seasoned veteran, Sofia was indeed a fine shag, but the real surprise in the sack was yet to come. (No, she's not a ladyboy.)
At the outset, she'd said this was just a short-time tryst. Until she passed out. We slumbered together lovingly until about 6 a.m. when I was awakened with a shocking sensation.
The Monk peed on me.
Yes, I do mean urinated. While in her sleep.
Now I've had dreams about wanting to use the toilet, but I've always woken up before lifting the seat in said dream. It took a fountain of yellow shooting across me and the bed to jolt her awake.
Thankfully, the room had two beds. So, after she washed herself, me and the bedsheets (as well as use the proper toilet), we simply moved to the other mattress on the condition she wouldn't soil this one too. At least not with bodily waste.
We awoke for good a few hours later, spilled some other bodily fluids on the second bed and she departed with $20 in her hand and a sheepish look on her face as she dropped the sheets off to housecleaning.
Back for More
As I noted, Thursday night was going to be an early one. The first dive shop that opens using a speedboat will take over the market. Because getting up at 6:45 to catch a slow converted fishing boat while on holiday is ridiculous. I had some beers at Dolphin Shack until midnight, didn't see Sofia, and went to sleep like a good boy.
After diving, resting and eating, Friday night – my last in Sihanoukville – was on tap. What to do? Who am I kidding. It was back to the Freedom Bar. Sofia, who took Thursday night off as well, it turned out, was also in the house.
She was good (albeit wet), but I thought I'd like to try something else. But that wasn't going to happen. I was now marked. No sooner had the bartender poured my beer and she was next to me. No other women approached me the entire night.
Realizing I had no other place to go, I decided to make the best of it with Sofia. The night played out similarly to 48 hours before except this time her stay in my room was indeed a $10 short-time and no unintended urinating occurred. She talked about going back to Phnom Penh with me but, despite exchanging phone numbers, I didn't hear from her again.
The Last Word
Sihanoukville is the youngest city in Cambodia, only incorporated in the 60s. It's also changing faster than you can spell Sihanoukville, If you've been there five years ago, you'd barely recognize it. The Snooky of the 90s is gone. And what has replaced it is not what many people expected.
For years I've heard how Sihanoukville was Pattaya 20 years ago and how it would be the next big monger destination. And, for a while, it seemed that might be true, as the Chicken Farm and other P4P venues sprung up. But in what most sane people would consider a wise move, the government intervened. Pattaya, as can be seen here, was once a lovely place with white beaches and unpolluted waters. Cambodia's officials decided to see if they could keep Sihanoukville that way.
Beachfront guesthouses were banned and, in their place, the government invited in the Chinese and Koreans to build plush, private casino resorts. More than 90% of Sihanoukville's beaches are now privately owned and, unfortunately, the lure of Chinese money has prompted the government to eat into a national park to make way for more casinos.
At the same time, the crackdown on P4P bit hard. No more short time rooms. No more barfines (allegedly). The Chicken Farm is all but gone.
The overwhelming reaction I've gotten to my two previous posts on Sihanoukville was "sorry, seemed like it sucked pretty bad" and "thanks, I was thinking of going, but now I won't bother."
Both sentiments would actually be wrong. I actually enjoyed my five days in Sihanoukville, but not necessarily for the reasons I planned to go there.
The place, particularly during the day, is actually pretty great, if you like nice beaches, low prices, friendly people, warm ocean water and decent food. If you're young, can stay out until dawn and don't mind sand in your shoes (and your underwear and your bed…), then Sihanoukville will be a lot of fun.
And, in truth, there are more than a few bars where there are more than a few women of loose morals who find older, fatter guys sexy. (Or at least they say so.) There are also spots that I didn't try, such as what remains of the fabled Chicken Farm. I'm told most of it has been shut down due to many places selling chickens that hadn't fully hatched yet. And there are some discos like the Airport Club and another joint called Blue Mountain which have gotten press but, at the time I was there, were deserted.
I definitely was cursed by my timing. Definitely do not to Snooky during Songkran. And that holds doubly true for Phnom Penh, which literally shuts down for four days or more.
Would I go back? Not alone. I'd each take my own sand to this fine beach or go with some mates. With beer so cheap, drinking with the boys would be a big draw. It would also make plundering the bars more fun.
There's also the matter of the girls themselves, and this also applies to the capital. To me, they simply aren't as attractive as Thai girls. I favor light-skinned Asian girls. The Khmers are mostly very dark. The Monk was like eating dark chocolate. As I mentioned in my Phnon Penh posts, the Vietnamese, at least for now, are gone. Not sure why, but they are not there now. Also, if you're into big bustlines, Cambodia will be a bust for you.
I will say, however, that I find the Khmers much more polite and friendly than the Thais Everyone was nice and you didn't have the feeling you get in Bangkok, Pattaya and Phuket that you're always a mark for getting ripped off. They may not smile as much as the Thais, but I feel these days the Land of Smiles is simply a mask for the Land of Sneers.
So, with all that in mind, if you still want to go, here are a few final tips:
- Accommodations – If you're happy with fans and mosquito nets, there are tons of cheap rooms and bungalows for under $10 a night. Some are even free. Google it. For hotels, I can recommend Coasters, where I stayed, or Reef Resort, on the paved road near the Golden Lion circile. More expensive, but said to be worth it. And great food.
- Food – For dinner, you'd be an idiot not to eat on the beach each night. $3 for all that? Fuggitaboutit. For lunches, or a change of pace for dinner, check out Mick & Craig's, a few doors down from Reef Resort. Reasonable prices and good menu. Skip the Mexican dishes, though. For that head right to Reef Resort which has the best Mexican I've had in Asia plus seemingly every tequila on the planet, some costing $10 a shot.
- Transport – To and from Phnom Penh, go out of your way if necessary to book a ticket on Mekong Bus Lines. Same price as the others, but great service, including free breakfast snack, water and wet towels. And they don't steal your stuff like Paramount Bus Lines does. Inside Snooky, it's "motodop" all the way. (Don't ask me what the "dop" is for.) Short rides are just 50 cents and all the way across town is just $1.
- Shopping – Avoid the hotel shop rip-offs and go to the supermarket downtown. I forget the name, but just tell your moto guy 'supermarket" and you'll get there. There's only one. And, during your quiet daytime, check out the huge covered outdoor market near the bus station. Some good deals to be had.
- Scuba Diving – There are three shops. My recommendation is The Dive Shop next to Mick & Craig's (despite its dumb name.) But beware, diving Sihanoukville is a lot like diving in Pattaya: Long boat ride, low visibility and no fish. But the coral is pretty nice and, during lunchtime, you eat on an island where the dive shop operates a guesthouse which has the following on the menu: Beer: $1; Condoms $3; Herb: $1.50. Sounds like the perfect combination.


text:
Currys return policy help/advice (ex-display)?
When I told her she went crazy, so she's going down first thing tommorow morning to get her money back.
Will it be okay with it being ex-display, the receipt is a standard one with the 28day peace of mind statement etc. Where does she stand here? I'd have thought she's entitled to her money back?


text:
Integrated Wellness South Jordan
10376 S. Jordan Gateway
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Dec 19, 2018
5 Times You Should See a Chiropractor (Not Just for Back Pain)
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When were Fortune Cookies invented?
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More schools are starting classes later to let students sleep: Why good sleep is important
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What Year Was It?
President Clinton Impeached
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The day was Dec 19. What year was it?
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Integrated Wellness South Jordan
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text:
Whitianga, Mercury Bay, Coromandel Peninsula, [ca 1911]
Reference Number: 1/2-000678-G
Whitianga, Mercury Bay, Coromandel, ca 1911. Shows the sweep of the bay, wharves at Whitianga, timber boom and Whitianga District Timber Mill close to the waterfront. Photograph taken by William A Price.
Key terms:
1 image, related to Whitianga District Timber Company, Whitianga, Mercury Bay, Wharves - New Zealand - Waikato Region, Timber industry - New Zealand - Waikato Region and Sawmills - New Zealand - Waikato Region.
Part of:
Price, William Archer, d 1948 :Collection of post card negatives, Reference Number PAColl-3057 (1884 digitised items)
Extent: 1 b&w original negative(s)Dry plate glass negative 4.5 x 6.5 inches. Horizontal imageSingle negative
Conditions governing access to original: Partial restriction - Negatives are not available for viewing. Surrogate copies will be provided.
Citation: Any publication must be accompanied by the credit "Price Collection, Alexander Turnbull Library".
Other copies available: File print available in Pictorial Reference Service14. Coromandel Co. Mercury Bay(PFP-004506)
Inscriptions: Inscribed - Photographer's title on negative - bottom centre: Mercury Bay. 2586. D
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text:
Verna Parks, 88, "passed peacefully into heaven" on Saturday, March 3, 2018, due to natural causes.
She was born on Oct. 2,1929, and was raised in East Smithfield, Pennsylvania.
She is survived by her brother, Neil (Pat) Bolster; her children, Jeannette (John) Tomlinson, Kathy Blow, Kathleen Meehan, Mike (Sandy) Meehan, Jo Ann (Max) Edington, David (Angie) Meehan, and Tammie (David) Storrs; 28 grandchildren; 25 great-grandchildren; and six great-great-grandchildren.
Verna owned and operated a personal care home for the elderly for many years. She loved to study the word of God and held a weekly Bible study up until her death. One of her final life accomplishments was publishing her first book of poems, titled "I Touched the Hand of Jesus."
Verna was a loving sister, mother and grandmother. She will be missed by her loved ones.
To send a note of condolence to the family, please visit www.buffalohillfh.com. Buffalo Hill Funeral Home is caring for the family.


text:
My favourite part of working for free is that they don't expect me to come in if there's nothing to do. I had a day off on Tuesday, so I got a commission started and finished while watching David Attenborough documentaries. A girl in the year below me in my department had asked me to make a hat for her boyfriend like the one the kid in Moone Boy wears. I couldn't find a pattern, so I kept this picture open to peer at and worked away. (Image is from this page.)
The bobble may be too big. It was hard to get no glare off it.
I used Katia Big Merino on 6mm needles for this. I could have made a more accurate hat with slightly finer yarn, but that wouldn't have been as warm, and also, ain't no-one got time for that much fair isle.
Sure it's a nice Christmassy hat, if nothing else. I haven't given it to her yet, so hopefully they both like it!
I can also post my last October birthday knit, since it's been unwrapped! I made a pair of Owlings gloves for a friend who's inexplicably enthusiastic about owls. I really like the subtlety of the pattern. (When I made it it was still free - given the reasons listed for it now being charged for, I'm not sure if I should donate. It was beautiful and I got use out of it!)
I knit these with Blue Sky Alpacas Organic Cotton, as their person is vegan. (I need to stop getting close enough to people with wool aversions that they merited knitted gifts.) It took less than one skein to make the pair, and I knit them larger than the pattern recommended to fit man-hands.
A close-up of the owls. Hey, remember when there was sunshine and vegetation could grow?
I made this neckwarmer yesterday during my downtime at work and when I got home, to sell at a craft fair at the end of this month. I made my first trip to The Constant Knitter on Monday - one of them women recognised me by the scarf I was wearing, as we'd had a conversation about the yarn at the Knitting and Stitching Show the day before! - and bough a skein of King Cole Riot because I liked the colours and wanted to see how it knits and I'll hopefully be selling it at the end of the month anyway and it doesn't count as part of a stash and DON'T LOOK AT ME.
I'm getting a bit wary of how much Christmas knitting I have left to do, but it'll be grand so it will.