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When we support local businesses, we grow our local economy. That's key to my platform, and necessary to contribute to a lasting local economy in Tempe.
Development is one of the issues I discuss most frequently with Tempeans and it is also incredibly complex and comes in many forms. To give an idea of my values, I do not approve of providing variances on properties to be resold immediately for a profit, but I'm for providing incentives encouraging local business owners to adapt and reuse existing structures that maintain our history and grow our local economy.
I have become acquainted with multiple stakeholders on this issue and I'm anxious for an opportunity to review and negotiate proposals. To be frank, Council can't force a business to open (like a specific grocery stores in NW Tempe) or a specific development to build on private land. The City can provide incentives, they can facilitate collaboration, they can accomodate zoning changes, but a City is not going to fund development on their own.
I'm a strong proponent of Transit Oriented Development, and affordable and workforce housing is among my top priorities. I know what it's like to have home insecurity and lose a home to foreclosure during the recession. Housing in Tempe is a struggle for most working families and homeownership is often difficult. The ability to have affordable housing in many parts of Tempe is difficult due to demand and high prices. However, strengthening our transit infrastructure allows more affordable development with varied transportation options (like light rail, bike lanes, and Orbit) to major job centers will help people who work in Tempe be able to afford to live here.
I've asked people in various aspects of the development process if there even is a documented process for reviewing development proposals, and I never get a consistent answer. And this is part of the problem; how can we make effective development decisions, request appropriate input, or balance the overall landscape of opportunities without an open and clear process?
If elected, a streamlined and open process is something I'll push for. From a business perspective, time is money, and as much as we can shorten processes, the better for business. From the community's perspective, understanding what is happening and when neighborhoods have a chance to provide important feedback on the types of development proposed, provides a more collaborative approach to new developments.
I have knocked on doors in nearly every neighborhood in Tempe, and the character of each is so unique, I can't help but advocate for preservation. But that can't be up to the City alone, advocacy must be up to the neighborhoods and input must be sought early on in the process before a proposal is approved. Strong neighborhood groups are so important to maintain and grow our community, and I'd love to continue and expand the art grants to help define each neighborhood. But we know that the most active neighborhoods in Tempe tend to get more funding while other neighborhoods lack an organized group to make the application.
I'd also love a more robust neighborhood character area discussion. Guidelines that developers can follow to streamline the design review will save time, unnecessary rework, and protect and preserve the character of our neighborhoods. This can also provide additional input from designated neighborhoods for all planned development activities.
Our property values and home prices in Tempe are up, which is good for homeowners, but that also means our rent goes up, regardless of single family homes, condos, or apartments. Most recent approved development proposals are market rate, meaning it's not luxury, but rent is higher than it has been in recent years which is pricing out our renting residents who can no longer afford to live in Tempe.
We must be mindful that renters are our neighbors too. Landlords who raise the rent should be providing additional value in their rentals to warrant the higher rate. But the City should also enforce code violations in a reasonable manner to maintain the neighborhoods we've grown to love in Tempe.
Affordable housing is a federal definition and understandably, is often avoided because of regulatory hurdles. I'd love to entertain proposals for affordable housing but many residents don't want this type of development in their neighborhood, and the City would have to use an incredible amount of tax revenue to purchase land or provide extreme tax offsets to developers to build anything designated affordable.
I myself am a renter, having lost our home in the recession in 2008 after a layoff and we are still struggling to recover while paying a small mortgage-worth of student loan debt. While we do plan to purchase a home in the next year (hopefully!), I fear the prices will continue to rise and I'll always be mindful of the struggle for working families.


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Make sure you rent a car beforehand, as you will most definitely want to travel around during your stay here and it is the easiest and best way to get around!
Post Falls is the location for you if you enjoy golfing during your getaway to Idaho. With various courts found throughout the state, one of the most popular is the Highlands Golf Course. If you come during the summer time, you have the advantage of sunny weather and what better way to spend the day by playing a few rounds of golf in the warm sunshine! If you are after activities for all the family, including the kids, make sure you go white water rafting in Cascade! Fight your way through the waters on the Middle Fork of the Salmon River. Beautiful wilderness and forests surround you, the kids and your loved ones and you are guaranteed to have a blast at trying your hand at white water rafting!
Experience various American traditions in Island Park in Idaho. Make your first port of call the Mack's Inn Playhouse, which is a summer dinner theatre, With various musical entertainment on here, you can eat whilst enjoying the family friendly performances! With traditional American cuisine on offer here including ribs and fried chicken, sample hearty American cuisine during your Idaho vacation. If you fancy horse riding, head over to the Eagle Ridge Ranch and ride through the Idaho countryside on top of a horse; fun for all the family and great for exploration!
Another great city to visit during your Idaho vacations is Boise, which is the capital of Idaho. There are various sights well worth seeing here, especially as many of these are scenic even though they are in the heart of the city! The Idaho Botanical Garden is the perfect place for you and the kids to have a picnic in the summer as the park is extremely peaceful and contains all different types of various plants and flowers! If you are planing a winter break, then head to the slopes at the Bogus Basin Ski Resort and spend the day skiing or snowboarding these tall peaks! If you are a beginner, make sure you get a lesson beforehand so you can make the most of your time on the piste! Sun Valley is also a hotspot for skiiers and snowboarders therefore you will be spoilt for choice in terms of great skiing destinations in Idaho!
This is where you can find your reminder list,
recently viewed accommodations and lots more!

subset: commoncrawl


text: Lil Wayne: MTV's #7 Hottest MC In The Game Brandon Caldwell October 21, 2010 News 3 Comments Despite being behind bars, Tune nabs the #7 spot on the list which apparently has thrown Lupe Fiasco into ranting mode on Twitter over the list. We all know the truth though, if he were on the list this year – he'd be eating two and a half plates of humble pie. Tune on the other hand deserves his spot on the list by not letting being behind bars derail that unmatchable work ethic he has. Not to mention a castaway product like I Am Not A Human Being becoming the #1 album in the country. Lil Wayne had a helluva 2010, and just think: He wasn't even around for most of it. The New Orleans MC has been on Rikers Island since March, serving time on a weapons charge that dates back to 2007. But before he went in, the Cash Money rapper adopted a work ethic reminiscent of Tupac Shakur. To wit, he released the compilation album We Are Young Money in late December '09, two full-length solo LPs — Rebirth, which debuted at #2 on the Billboard albums chart and has since gone gold, and I Am Not A Human Being, which sold 110,000 copies in its first week of release in September — more than a handful of videos and a couple of notable collaborations. A mainstay on the Hottest MCs list, his time away precipitated a fall of five slots from last year's #2 ranking, but MTV News' Hip-Hop Brain Trust still voted Lil Wayne the #7 Hottest MC of 2010. "I think he did not necessarily plan the jail portion of his career at this point," MTV's RapFix blog editor Hillary Crosley said during this year's roundtable discussion. "But I think he certainly prepared for it … so that he was able to just keep it coming." Perhaps Wayne's biggest accomplishment of the past year was finally seeing his protégés, Nicki Minaj and Drake, become bona fide stars. Aubrey Graham was right behind Wayne on last year's list, coming in at #3. This year, Drake released his first full-length LP, Thank Me Later, which debuted at #1 on the Billboard albums chart. Wayne and Drizzy were practically joined at the hip on radio, mixtapes, bumping from car stereos or at the club. Among the tracks that scored heavy rotation were "Forever," "Money to Blow," "Bedrock" (also featuring Nicki Minaj) and "Miss Me," to name a few, Nicki popped up on Wayne's single "Knockout" and he traded the favor on "I Gets Crazy," but she also proved her solo prowess, landing a #1 record all by herself with "Your Love," as she rides Titanic-size buzz ahead of her debut, Pink Friday. "[Wayne] going away, it felt like it didn't really hurt," said Sean Lee, MTV News' supervising producer. MTV News senior writer Jayson Rodriguez agreed: "He has this impact by the people that he's introduced. And they've helped carry him while he's not even here right now." PREVIOUSLY: #8 – Waka Flocka Flame | #9 – B.o.B | #10 – Ludacris Share this:TweetShare on Tumblr


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3 Options Tips from Someone With Experience
Digital Marketing Expert – Visible Signs That You Should Hire One for Your Costume Company
Costume businesses are in today, especially during holiday since there are lots of people who are looking for plus size Halloween costumes that they can wear. If there is one thing that you should know when it comes to a business that has no marketing plan, that would be the fact that it can be compared to a ship without a captain. Albeit the fact that crews are present to oversee the things that are going in inside the ship, it is still very important for a captain to be on board as the are the one who is responsible for not only steering the wheel but also, for maneuvering the entire ship so that it will not be carried so easily by the waves and that they can reach their destination fast. You can say that the same scenario can be viewed regarding every business as it is important to have a properly though and properly created marketing plan as this is the one that will enable the business to grow successfully and profitably. In addition to that, you have to bear in mind as well that without a marketing plan, the business that you take so much blood, so much sweat, and so much tears to build will not survive.
It is very important for every business to have a direction however; there are times when many of us are too busy to head it up to themselves. Being an owner of a costume company, you have to be as creative and as imaginative as you can possible when marketing your business and for it to become a possibility, it would be best for you to hire the service of the right digital marketing expert.
It has been said that marketing takes most of your time away from other task and because of this, it is only right for you to get the service of a digital marketing expert. Perhaps, if you have ever tried doing it then surely, you will agree when we say that planning an effective marketing strategy will take time and it is not little, but a lot of it. Digital marketing experts can do more than just freeing you from the trouble, the stress and the time consuming activity of doing marketing plan hence, it would be best and advantageous on your end to get their service.
Another important reason why it is advantageous in your end to get the service of a digital marketing expert is due to the fact that fresh marketing ideas are hard to come by so, their help and assistance is highly needed. Digital marketing experts are brilliant in their job as they know the needs and the wants of the audience that is why they can create contents that are both creative and fresh.


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new beaded bar bracelets
Hello! You know what? Yesterday, I COMPLETELY forgot it was Halloween! I didn't realize it until
I saw the google homepage, haha! So, sorry about not posting anything Halloween related yesterday!
Anyways, I have new beaded bar bracelets in the shop!
The first one is a vesuvianite stones bracelet; I just love that beautiful green color!
The next one is made with rainbow moonstones, and you can even see little sparkles of rainbows!
Oh, and FYI, I will be moving on November 10th, so the last day to purchase jewelry from my
shop will be on November 6th. I will temporarily close, & will reopen as soon as i'm settled in.
If you're the one that shops for Christmas presents early, then get them soon!
Just in case I don't open until December (;


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Earlier today, I was privileged to attend the annual retreat of the Campus Ministers and College Chaplains of the SoMA. Along with one of the members of the SoMA's Committee on Life and Mission, Rev. Mary Newberg Gale, we were welcomed into their space for the morning to discuss the contours of campus ministry, and what they each are doing at their respective institutions to further the mission of God and help young adults become creative, dynamic, and faithful disciples of Jesus Christ.
Even though, when I was in seminary, I cut my ministry teeth on a college campus, I am almost a bit ashamed to tell you that my take away from this morning's discussion is this:
Ministry to college students is NOT glorified Youth Group.
Again, I am embarrassed that this is what I thought. But I wonder if that's what a lot of us think.
As Mary and I sat and listened and pushed and prodded and questioned what became abundantly clear is the degree to which these ministers and chaplains understand that they are providing a space through which young adults can experience the church you and I know and love. Indeed, they shared with us that, rather than being a "refuge for those who have been hurt or disappointed" by the Church, they experience their ministry more as a "doorway" into healthy Church life.
I'd say we need more of that.
Many folks wonder and question why the SoMA would involve itself in supporting and funding Campus Ministry and the best answer I have is found in one of the documents we send to them as part of our funding application process. We stole it from our sister synod, the Synod of the Trinity, and I offer it for your edification:
Why The SoMA Should Be Connected: A Rationale For Campus Ministry
Every time that we pour the baptismal waters, we make a covenant to nurture the faith of the newly baptized. Campus ministry provides a valuable resource to the church as we live out that covenant with college-aged students.
In an age of decline in church participation and at a stage of life where most people leave the church, we would not only provide a turn around strategy for the sake of the church but also we would live into the promises we make as congregations to each of these individuals. At baptism, congregations promise, on behalf of the whole Christian Church, to guide and nurture those being baptized by word and deed, with love and prayer, and encourage them to know and follow Christ Jesus, as faithful members of Christ's church. This responsibility does not cease at confirmation or graduation from high school but is life-long. Thus, in order to fulfill our baptismal covenants with young adults, we are compelled to support campus ministries in the context of higher education within the Synod of Mid-America.
Young adults experience many transitions and are maturing through these experiences. Aware of this, it is essential for the church to be present and provide nurture along with opportunities to engage in deep questions of life and faith, provide vibrant worship and a welcome to community. The church is called to model Christ's example to meet people where they are on their life long journey of faith.
While in college, young adults are taught to think critically. Simultaneously, they attempt to make meaning of faith and all of life. Often they are found transitioning between a conventional faith into a critical-systemic faith, which then can evolve into a mature adult faith that can hold both conviction and paradox.[1] It is critical during this time of meaning making the church accompany young adults as they are faced with questions that challenge what they have known, as doubts are raised and they discern what they believe. We believe in the call to mentor and empower these young adults as they develop their faith for themselves.
W-2.3013 The congregation as a whole, on behalf of the Church universal, assumes responsibility for nurturing the baptized person in the Christian life.
W-2.3012 e. Making certain that those baptized are nurtured in understanding the meaning of their Baptism, of the Lord's Supper, and of their interrelation, and that they are surrounded by Christian encouragement and support.
[1] Sharon Daloz Parks, Big Questions, Worthy Dreams ©2000 p. 13


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I have completed 7 days of mindfulness practice according to my Daily Mindfulness app.
Does anyone else practice mindfulness? What is your experience of it? What are the best bits?
I have completed 7 days of mindfulness practice according to my Daily Mindfulness app.
Does anyone else practice mindfulness? What is your experience of it? What are the best bits?
Posted in baby, Beauty, conceive, family, fertility, fitness, ICSI, infertility, ivf, natural, pregnancy, pregnant, Stress, ttc, Uncategorized
Tagged baby, fertility, infertility, meditation, mindfulness
Posted in Uncategorized
Tagged baby, caffeine, coffee, fertile, fertility, infertile, infertility, IVF, pregnant
This week I have been very excited to start seeing a Zita West Accredited Acupunturist called Ian, who is based in Hove. Who knew there was one based in Hove!?
Whilst going through my case history and hearing myself talk about my diet and lifestyle, it sounded like I really shouldn't have any trouble getting preggo. I don't smoke or drink, I don't eat crap food, I don't drink caffeine as much as I would like to, I don't do drugs and I take all the right supplements. I'm not stressed and I'm essentially happy.
So in reality, why isn't it happening?
Maybe I should start blaming my hubby ?
Is there really anything more I can do? Or anything more I can restrict?
Whilst all around me my friends and colleagues announce their first babies, and then their second babies.
Infertility is like a silent scream, all day, everyday.
Blustery, sunny, Sunday mornings. In the park, with Nancy and her amazing home made meringues!!!
Cobwebs blown away and feeling inspired!
This is a guest post written by my lovely friend Karen, who I met when I was in my early 20's whilst at work. I thought she was "well cool" because she can speak, like, 10 languages and she's a lawyer!!! She wrote this lovely story of hope all about her ICSI miracle babies.
This Easter weekend has been a bit of a special one for us. Easter Sunday was my gorgeous boy's 6th birthday. He was born after our first round of ICSI back in 2007. And then Easter Monday was the two-year anniversary of our frozen embryos (from that same ICSI cycle) being transferred! And then today, the 22nd, my beautiful daughter is 15 months old!
When I hear other people's stories, I know how very very lucky we were to have success first time after both ICSI and a frozen embryo cycle. In no small part it was definitely down to the very wonderful people at the Esperance Hospital's Assisted Conception Unit. For us they couldn't have been better and I would rate their embryologists as second to none.
But I think just being relaxed and positive was a huge contributor too. How I achieved that is anybody's guess because I am one of the biggest stress monkeys you could ever wish to meet! But I always approached the process as just that – a process. It was something I didn't have any specific control over until those little babies implanted themselves in my expectant womb. Everything else was down to other people, medicine, fate… And so I couldn't control/change/blame myself for doing anything wrong if it didn't happen. And I never entered the process thinking that it may not happen, either. Again, so strange for me because I always worry about what could have/would have/should have been.
If I could only tell all of you going through IVF how to achieve that calm, positive approach, I would bottle it and give it to you all for free. But it definitely seemed to work for us. I did dabble with a little acupuncture (more on that separately). In fact less than a year before we went for IVF I was a physical and emotional mess. The lovely people at Dragon acupuncture clinic in Brighton put me back together and maybe the soothing calming effect of acupuncture stood me in good stead.
Not even Hospitilisation for OHSS when I got pregnant with my son could break my positive spirit.
So keep the faith ladies! I'm no spring chicken at 42 now and definitely won't be going through any more fertility treatment. But whatever your age or your history, I wish you all the very very best in your quest for a family.
Last night I went to the pub. The whole place was heaving with families and pregnant women.
I felt completely surrounded by those lucky, happy preggos.
Some of them were smoking. SMOKING!!!!
I was so upset, I actually cried. Granted I'd had a couple of sherry's by that point, but seriously, HOW CAN THEY DO THAT TO THEIR BABIES???? How?
So I cried out of anger and frustration and jealousy.
One of the preggos asked me if her smoking had upset me? And I said no. How could I get into an argument about this in public? How can I explain to her that I will never, ever be as blessed and as lucky as she is right now, without sounding like I'm completely barmy?
I tried to explain how I felt to my friend, who just kept saying how lucky I am to have had my son, and yes, I know I am lucky, and more thankful then you could ever imagine, but I'm sad for me and I'm sad for a future that will never exist. But most of all I am sad for my little boy, because I feel like I've failed him.
Anyway, this walking away from TTC is much harder then I thought.
Posted in ARGC, baby, conceive, egg, family, fertility, fsh, herbs, ICSI, infertility, ivf, Mr Taranissi, natural, pregnancy, pregnant, smoking, supplements, tea, ttc, Uncategorized, zita west
Tagged 2WW, ARGC, baby, conceive, egg, embryo, family, fertile, fertility, FET, icsi, infertile, infertility, IVF, pregnant, smoking, ttc


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|Lesson 5
|*April 22-28
The Promise Fulfilled
Memory Text: Acts 2:2-4 "Suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting, And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost"
"Scripture taken from the NEW KING JAMES VERSION". Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson Publishers. Used by Permission.
Sabbath Afternoon
Luke 24:49 NKJV 49 "Behold, I send the Promise of My Father upon you; but tarry in the city of Jerusalem until you are endued with power from on high."
Acts 2:11 NKJV 11 "Cretans and Arabs--we hear them speaking in our own tongues the wonderful works of God."
Faith and the Promise
Acts 1:4-5 NKJV 4 And being assembled together with them, He commanded them not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for the Promise of the Father, "which," He said, "you have heard from Me; 5 "for John truly baptized with water, but you shall be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now."
John 14:16-26 NKJV 16 "And I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you forever-- 17 "the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him; but you know Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you. 18 "I will not leave you orphans; I will come to you. 19 "A little while longer and the world will see Me no more, but you will see Me. Because I live, you will live also. 20 "At that day you will know that I am in My Father, and you in Me, and I in you. 21 "He who has My commandments and keeps them, it is he who loves Me. And he who loves Me will be loved by My Father, and I will love him and manifest Myself to him." 22 Judas (not Iscariot) said to Him, "Lord, how is it that You will manifest Yourself to us, and not to the world?"
John 14:23-26 23 Jesus answered and said to him, "If anyone loves Me, he will keep My word; and My Father will love him, and We will come to him and make Our home with him. 24 "He who does not love Me does not keep My words; and the word which you hear is not Mine but the Father's who sent Me. 25 "These things I have spoken to you while being present with you. 26 "But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you.
John 16:7-13 NKJV 7 "Nevertheless I tell you the truth. It is to your advantage that I go away; for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you; but if I depart, I will send Him to you. 8 "And when He has come, He will convict the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment: 9 "of sin, because they do not believe in Me; 10 "of righteousness, because I go to My Father and you see Me no more; 11 "of judgment, because the ruler of this world is judged. 12 "I still have many things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now. 13 "However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come.
Ephesians 2:8 NKJV 8 For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God,
Romans 5:1 NKJV 1 Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ,
Hebrews 11:6 NKJV 6 But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.
Deuteronomy 4:9 NKJV 9 "Only take heed to yourself, and diligently keep yourself, lest you forget the things your eyes have seen, and lest they depart from your heart all the days of your life. And teach them to your children and your grandchildren,
Psalms 119:1-2 NKJV 1 ALEPH. Blessed are the undefiled in the way, Who walk in the law of the LORD! 2 Blessed are those who keep His testimonies, Who seek Him with the whole heart!
Colossians 3:1-2 NKJV 1 If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. 2 Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth.
Waiting as Preparation
Acts 2:1 NKJV 1 When the Day of Pentecost had fully come, they were all with one accord in one place.
Acts 2:46 NKJV 46 So continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they ate their food with gladness and simplicity of heart,
Mark 9:33-34 NKJV 33 Then He came to Capernaum. And when He was in the house He asked them, "What was it you disputed among yourselves on the road?" 34 But they kept silent, for on the road they had disputed among themselves who would be the greatest.
Luke 22:24 NKJV 24 Now there was also a dispute among them, as to which of them should be considered the greatest.
Acts 4:32 NKJV 32 Now the multitude of those who believed were of one heart and one soul; neither did anyone say that any of the things he possessed was his own, but they had all things in common.
The Pentecostal Fulfillment
Acts 2:1-2 NKJV 1 When the Day of Pentecost had fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. 2 And suddenly there came a sound from heaven, as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting.
Leviticus 23:15-21 NKJV 15 'And you shall count for yourselves from the day after the Sabbath, from the day that you brought the sheaf of the wave offering: seven Sabbaths shall be completed. 16 'Count fifty days to the day after the seventh Sabbath; then you shall offer a new grain offering to the LORD. 17 'You shall bring from your dwellings two wave loaves of two-tenths of an ephah. They shall be of fine flour; they shall be baked with leaven. They are the firstfruits to the LORD. 18 'And you shall offer with the bread seven lambs of the first year, without blemish, one young bull, and two rams. They shall be as a burnt offering to the LORD, with their grain offering and their drink offerings, an offering made by fire for a sweet aroma to the LORD. 19 'Then you shall sacrifice one kid of the goats as a sin offering, and two male lambs of the first year as a sacrifice of a peace offering. 20 'The priest shall wave them with the bread of the firstfruits as a wave offering before the LORD, with the two lambs. They shall be holy to the LORD for the priest. 21 'And you shall proclaim on the same day that it is a holy convocation to you. You shall do no customary work on it. It shall be a statute forever in all your dwellings throughout your generations.
Exodus 19:6 NKJV 6 'And you shall be to Me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.' These are the words which you shall speak to the children of Israel."
Exodus 23:16 NKJV 16 "and the Feast of Harvest, the firstfruits of your labors which you have sown in the field; and the Feast of Ingathering at the end of the year, when you have gathered in the fruit of your labors from the field.
John 4:35 NKJV 35 "Do you not say, 'There are still four months and then comes the harvest'? Behold, I say to you, lift up your eyes and look at the fields, for they are already white for harvest!
Read Acts chapter 2
Acts 2:5 NKJV 5 And there were dwelling in Jerusalem Jews, devout men, from every nation under heaven.
Heaven and the Outpouring
Acts 2:22-35 NKJV 22 "Men of Israel, hear these words: Jesus of Nazareth, a Man attested by God to you by miracles, wonders, and signs which God did through Him in your midst, as you yourselves also know-- 23 "Him, being delivered by the determined purpose and foreknowledge of God, you have taken by lawless hands, have crucified, and put to death; 24 "whom God raised up, having loosed the pains of death, because it was not possible that He should be held by it. 25 "For David says concerning Him: 'I foresaw the LORD always before my face, For He is at my right hand, that I may not be shaken. 26 Therefore my heart rejoiced, and my tongue was glad; Moreover my flesh also will rest in hope. 27 For You will not leave my soul in Hades, Nor will You allow Your Holy One to see corruption. 28 You have made known to me the ways of life; You will make me full of joy in Your presence.' 29 "Men and brethren, let me speak freely to you of the patriarch David, that he is both dead and buried, and his tomb is with us to this day. 30 "Therefore, being a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him that of the fruit of his body, according to the flesh, He would raise up the Christ to sit on his throne, 31 "he, foreseeing this, spoke concerning the resurrection of the Christ, that His soul was not left in Hades, nor did His flesh see corruption. 32 "This Jesus God has raised up, of which we are all witnesses. 33 "Therefore being exalted to the right hand of God, and having received from the Father the promise of the Holy Spirit, He poured out this which you now see and hear. 34 "For David did not ascend into the heavens, but he says himself: 'The LORD said to my Lord, "Sit at My right hand, 35 Till I make Your enemies Your footstool."'
Acts of the Apostles, p.p. 38-39
The Spirit came upon the waiting, praying disciples with a fullness that reached every heart. The Infinite One revealed Himself in power to His church. It was as if for ages this influence had been held in restraint, and now Heaven rejoiced in being able to pour out upon the church the riches of the Spirit's grace. And under the influence of the Spirit, words of penitence and confession mingled with songs of praise for sins forgiven. Words of thanksgiving and of prophecy were heard. All heaven bent low to behold and to adore the wisdom of matchless, incomprehensible love. Lost in wonder, the apostles exclaimed, "Herein is love." They grasped the imparted gift. And what followed? The sword of the Spirit, newly edged with power and bathed in the lightnings of heaven, cut its way through unbelief. Thousands were converted in a day. {AA 38.1}
"It is expedient for you that I go away," Christ had said to His disciples; "for If I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send Him unto you." "When He, the Spirit of truth, is come, He will guide you into all truth: for He shall not speak of Himself; but whatsoever He shall hear, that shall He speak: and He will show you things to come." John 16:7, 13. {AA 38.2}
Christ's ascension to heaven was the signal that His followers were to receive the promised blessing. For this they were to wait before they entered upon their work. When Christ passed within the heavenly gates, He was enthroned amidst the adoration of the angels. As soon as this ceremony was completed, the Holy Spirit descended upon the disciples in rich currents, and Christ was indeed glorified, even (p. 39) with the glory which He had with the Father from all eternity. The Pentecostal outpouring was Heaven's communication that the Redeemer's inauguration was accomplished. According to His promise He had sent the Holy Spirit from heaven to His followers as a token that He had, as priest and king, received all authority in heaven and on earth, and was the Anointed One over His people. {AA 38.3}
"And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance." The Holy Spirit, assuming the form of tongues of fire, rested upon those assembled. This was an emblem of the gift then bestowed on the disciples, which enabled them to speak with fluency languages with which they had heretofore been unacquainted. The appearance of fire signified the fervent zeal with which the apostles would labor and the power that would attend their work. {AA 39.1}
"There were dwelling at Jerusalem Jews, devout men, out of every nation under heaven." During the dispersion the Jews had been scattered to almost every part of the inhabited world, and in their exile they had learned to speak various languages. Many of these Jews were on this occasion in Jerusalem, attending the religious festivals then in progress. Every known tongue was represented by those assembled. This diversity of languages would have been a great hindrance to the proclamation of the gospel; God therefore in a miraculous manner supplied the deficiency of the apostles. The Holy Spirit did for them that which (p. 40) they could not have accomplished for themselves in a lifetime. They could now proclaim the truths of the gospel abroad, speaking with accuracy the languages of those for whom they were laboring. This miraculous gift was a strong evidence to the world that their commission bore the signet of Heaven. From this time forth the language of the disciples was pure, simple, and accurate, whether they spoke in their native tongue or in a foreign language. {AA 39.2}
The Gift of Language
Acts 2:5-15 NKJV 5 And there were dwelling in Jerusalem Jews, devout men, from every nation under heaven. 6 And when this sound occurred, the multitude came together, and were confused, because everyone heard them speak in his own language. 7 Then they were all amazed and marveled, saying to one another, "Look, are not all these who speak Galileans? 8 "And how is it that we hear, each in our own language in which we were born? 9 "Parthians and Medes and Elamites, those dwelling in Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia, 10 "Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya adjoining Cyrene, visitors from Rome, both Jews and proselytes, 11 "Cretans and Arabs--we hear them speaking in our own tongues the wonderful works of God." 12 So they were all amazed and perplexed, saying to one another, "Whatever could this mean?" 13 Others mocking said, "They are full of new wine." 14 But Peter, standing up with the eleven, raised his voice and said to them, "Men of Judea and all who dwell in Jerusalem, let this be known to you, and heed my words. 15 "For these are not drunk, as you suppose, since it is only the third hour of the day.
Acts 2:13 NKJV 13 Others mocking said, "They are full of new wine."
Mark 16:17 NKJV 17 "And these signs will follow those who believe: In My name they will cast out demons; they will speak with new tongues;
Review Acts chapter 2
Review 1 Corinthians chapter 14
Acts of the Apostles, pp. 30-37
Christ's sacrifice in behalf of man was full and complete. The condition of the atonement had been fulfilled. The work for which He had come to this world had been accomplished. He had won the kingdom. He had wrested it from Satan and had become heir of all things. He was on His way (p. 30) to the throne of God, to be honored by the heavenly host. Clothed with boundless authority, He gave His disciples their commission, "Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end." Matthew 28:19, 20. {AA 29.2}
Just before leaving His disciples, Christ once more plainly stated the nature of His kingdom. He recalled to their remembrance things He had previously told them regarding it. He declared that it was not His purpose to establish in this world a temporal kingdom. He was not appointed to reign as an earthly monarch on David's throne. When the disciples asked Him, "Lord, wilt Thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel?" He answered, "It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in His own power." Acts 1:6, 7. It was not necessary for them to see farther into the future than the revelations He had made enabled them to see. Their work was to proclaim the gospel message. {AA 30.1}
Christ's visible presence was about to be withdrawn from the disciples, but a new endowment of power was to be theirs. The Holy Spirit was to be given them in its fullness, sealing them for their work. "Behold," the Saviour said, "I send the promise of My Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high." Luke 24:49. "For John truly baptized with (p. 31) water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence." "Ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto Me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth." Acts 1:5, 8. {AA 30.2}
The Saviour knew that no argument, however logical, would melt hard hearts or break through the crust of worldliness and selfishness. He knew that His disciples must receive the heavenly endowment; that the gospel would be effective only as it was proclaimed by hearts made warm and lips made eloquent by a living knowledge of Him who is the way, the truth, and the life. The work committed to the disciples would require great efficiency; for the tide of evil ran deep and strong against them. A vigilant, determined leader was in command of the forces of darkness, and the followers of Christ could battle for the right only through the help that God, by His Spirit, would give them. {AA 31.1}
Christ told His disciples that they were to begin their work at Jerusalem. That city had been the scene of His amazing sacrifice for the human race. There, clad in the garb of humanity, He had walked and talked with men, and few had discerned how near heaven came to earth. There He had been condemned and crucified. In Jerusalem were many who secretly believed Jesus of Nazareth to be the Messiah, and many who had been deceived by priests and rulers. To these the gospel must be proclaimed. They were to be called to repentance. The wonderful truth that (p.32)
through Christ alone could remission of sins be obtained, was to be made plain. And it was while all Jerusalem was stirred by the thrilling events of the past few weeks, that the preaching of the disciples would make the deepest impression. {AA 31.2}
During His ministry, Jesus had kept constantly before the disciples the fact that they were to be one with Him in His work for the recovery of the world from the slavery of sin. When He sent forth the Twelve and afterward the Seventy, to proclaim the kingdom of God, He was teaching them their duty to impart to others what He had made known to them. In all His work He was training them for individual labor, to be extended as their numbers increased, and eventually to reach to the uttermost parts of the earth. The last lesson He gave His followers was that they held in trust for the world the glad tidings of salvation. {AA 32.1}
When the time came for Christ to ascend to His Father, He led the disciples out as far as Bethany. Here He paused, and they gathered about Him. With hands outstretched in blessing, as if in assurance of His protecting care, He slowly ascended from among them. "It came to pass, while He blessed them, He was parted from them, and carried up into heaven." Luke 24:51. {AA 32.2}
While the disciples were gazing upward to catch the last glimpse of their ascending Lord, He was received into the rejoicing ranks of heavenly angels. As these angels escorted Him to the courts above, they sang in triumph, "Sing unto God, ye kingdoms of the earth; O sing praises
(p.33) unto the Lord, to Him that rideth upon the heavens of heavens. . . . Ascribe ye strength unto God: His excellency is over Israel, and His strength is in the heavens." Psalm 68:32-34, margin. {AA 32.3}
The disciples were still looking earnestly toward heaven when, "behold, two men stood by them in white apparel; which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen Him go into heaven." Acts 1:10, 11. {AA 33.1}
The promise of Christ's second coming was ever to be kept fresh in the minds of His disciples. The same Jesus whom they had seen ascending into heaven, would come again, to take to Himself those who here below give themselves to His service. The same voice that had said to them, "Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end," would bid them welcome to His presence in the heavenly kingdom. {AA 33.2}
As in the typical service the high priest laid aside his pontifical robes and officiated in the white linen dress of an ordinary priest; so Christ laid aside His royal robes and garbed Himself with humanity and offered sacrifice, Himself the priest, Himself the victim. As the high priest, after performing his service in the holy of holies, came forth to the waiting congregation in his pontifical robes; so Christ will come the second time, clothed in garments of whitest white, "so as no fuller on earth can white them." Mark 9:3. He will come in His own glory, and in the glory of His Father, and all the angelic host will escort Him on His way. (p. 34) {AA 33.3}
Thus will be fulfilled Christ's promise to His disciples, "I will come again, and receive you unto Myself." John 14:3. Those who have loved Him and waited for Him, He will crown with glory and honor and immortality. The righteous dead will come forth from their graves, and those who are alive will be caught up with them to meet the Lord in the air. They will hear the voice of Jesus, sweeter than any music that ever fell on mortal ear, saying to them, Your warfare is accomplished. "Come, ye blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world." Matthew 25;34. {AA 34.1}
Well might the disciples rejoice in the hope of their Lord's return. {AA 34.2}
Chap. 4 - Pentecost As the disciples returned from Olivet to Jerusalem, the people looked on them, expecting to see on their faces expressions of sorrow, confusion, and defeat; but they saw there gladness and triumph. The disciples did not now mourn over disappointed hopes. They had seen the risen Saviour, and the words of His parting promise echoed constantly in their ears. {AA 35.1}
In obedience to Christ's command, they waited in Jerusalem for the promise of the Father--the outpouring of the Spirit. They did not wait in idleness. The record says that they were "continually in the temple, praising and blessing God." Luke 24:53. They also met together to present their requests to the Father in the name of Jesus. They knew that they had a Representative in heaven, an Advocate at the throne of God. In solemn awe they bowed in prayer, repeating the assurance, "Whatsoever ye shall (p. 36) ask the Father in My name, He will give it you. Hitherto have ye asked nothing in My name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full." John 16:23, 24. Higher and still higher they extended the hand of faith, with the mighty argument, "It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us." Romans 8:34. {AA 35.2}
As the disciples waited for the fulfillment of the promise, they humbled their hearts in true repentance and confessed their unbelief. As they called to remembrance the words that Christ had spoken to them before His death they understood more fully their meaning. Truths which had passed from their memory were again brought to their minds, and these they repeated to one another. They reproached themselves for their misapprehension of the Saviour. Like a procession, scene after scene of His wonderful life passed before them. As they meditated upon His pure, holy life they felt that no toil would be too hard, no sacrifice too great, if only they could bear witness in their lives to the loveliness of Christ's character. Oh, if they could but have the past three years to live over, they thought, how differently they would act! If they could only see the Master again, how earnestly they would strive to show Him how deeply they loved Him, and how sincerely they sorrowed for having ever grieved Him by a word or an act of unbelief! But they were comforted by the thought that they were forgiven. And they determined that, so far as possible, they would atone for their unbelief by bravely confessing Him before the world. (p. 37) {AA 36.1}
The disciples prayed with intense earnestness for a fitness to meet men and in their daily intercourse to speak words that would lead sinners to Christ. Putting away all differences, all desire for the supremacy, they came close together in Christian fellowship. They drew nearer and nearer to God, and as they did this they realized what a privilege had been theirs in being permitted to associate so closely with Christ. Sadness filled their hearts as they thought of how many times they had grieved Him by their slowness of comprehension, their failure to understand the lessons that, for their good, He was trying to teach them. {AA 37.1}
These days of preparation were days of deep heart searching. The disciples felt their spiritual need and cried to the Lord for the holy unction that was to fit them for the work of soul saving. They did not ask for a blessing for themselves merely. They were weighted with the burden of the salvation of souls. They realized that the gospel was to be carried to the world, and they claimed the power that Christ had promised. {AA 37.2}
During the patriarchal age the influence of the Holy Spirit had often been revealed in a marked manner, but never in its fullness. Now, in obedience to the word of the Saviour, the disciples offered their supplications for this gift, and in heaven Christ added His intercession. He claimed the gift of the Spirit, that He might pour it upon His people. {AA 37.3}
"And when the Day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting." (p. 38){AA 37.4}
Testimonies for the Church, vol 8, pp. 19-21
The Power Promised God does not ask us to do in our own strength the work before us. He has provided divine assistance for all the emergencies to which our human resources are unequal. He gives the Holy Spirit to help in every strait, to strengthen our hope and assurance, to illuminate our minds and purify our hearts. {8T 19.1}
Just before His crucifixion the Saviour said to His disciples: "I will not leave you comfortless." "I will pray the Father, and He shall give you another Comforter, that He may abide with you forever." "When He, the Spirit of truth, is come, He will guide you into all truth: for He shall not speak of Himself; but whatsoever He shall hear, that shall He speak: and He will show you things to come." "He shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you." John 14:18, 16; 16:13; 14:26. {8T 19.2}
Christ has made provision that His church shall be a transformed body, illumined with the light of heaven, possessing the glory of Immanuel. It is His purpose that every Christian shall be surrounded with a spiritual atmosphere of light and peace. There is no limit to the usefulness of the one who, putting self aside, makes room for the working of the Holy Spirit upon his heart and lives a life wholly consecrated to God. {8T 19.3}
What was the result of the outpouring of the Spirit upon the Day of Pentecost? The glad tidings of a risen Saviour were carried to the utmost bounds of the inhabited world. The hearts of the disciples were surcharged with a benevolence so full, so deep, so far-reaching, that it impelled them to go to the ends of the earth, testifying: "God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ." Galatians 6:14. As they proclaimed the truth as it is in Jesus, hearts yielded to the power of the message. The church beheld converts flocking to her from all directions. Backsliders were reconverted. Sinners (p. 20) united with Christians in seeking the pearl of great price. Those who had been the bitterest opponents of the gospel became its champions. The prophecy was fulfilled: The weak shall be "as David," and the house of David "as the angel of the Lord." Every Christian saw in his brother the divine similitude of love and benevolence. One interest prevailed. One subject of emulation swallowed up all others. The only ambition of the believers was to reveal the likeness of Christ's character and to labor for the enlargement of His kingdom. {8T 19.4}
"With great power gave the apostles witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus: and great grace was upon them." Acts 4:33. Under their labors there were added to the church chosen men, who, receiving the word of life, consecrated their lives to the work of giving to others the hope that had filled their hearts with peace and joy. Hundreds proclaimed the message: "The kingdom of God is at hand." They could not be restrained or intimidated by threatenings. The Lord spoke through them; and, wherever they went, the sick were healed, and the poor had the gospel preached unto them. {8T 20.1}
So mightily can God work when men give themselves up to the control of His Spirit. {8T 20.2}
To us today, as verily as to the first disciples, the promise of the Spirit belongs. God will today endow men and women with power from above, as He endowed those who on the Day of Pentecost heard the word of salvation. At this very hour His Spirit and His grace are for all who need them and will take Him at His word. {8T 20.3}
Notice that it was after the disciples had come into perfect unity, when they were no longer striving for the highest place, that the Spirit was poured out. They were of one accord. All differences had been put away. And the testimony borne of them after the Spirit had been given is the same. Mark the word: "The multitude of them that believed were of one heart and of one soul." Acts 4:32. The Spirit of Him who died (p. 21)
that sinners might live animated the entire congregation of believers. {8T 20.4}
The disciples did not ask for a blessing for themselves. They were weighted with the burden of souls. The gospel was to be carried to the ends of the earth, and they claimed the endowment of power that Christ had promised. Then it was that the Holy Spirit was poured out, and thousands were converted in a day. {8T 21.1}
So it may be now. Let Christians put away all dissension and give themselves to God for the saving of the lost. Let them ask in faith for the promised blessing, and it will come. The outpouring of the Spirit in the days of the apostles was "the former rain," and glorious was the result. But the latter rain will be more abundant. What is the promise to those living in these last days? "Turn you to the stronghold, ye prisoners of hope: even today do I declare that I will render double unto thee." "Ask ye of the Lord rain in the time of the latter rain; so the Lord shall make bright clouds, and give them showers of rain, to every one grass in the field." Zechariah 9:12; 10:1. {8T 21.2}
Christ declared that the divine influence of the Spirit was to be with His followers unto the end. But the promise is not appreciated as it should be; and therefore its fulfillment is not seen as it might be. The promise of the Spirit is a matter little thought of; and the result is only what might be expected--spiritual drought, spiritual darkness, spiritual declension and death. Minor matters occupy the attention, and the divine power which is necessary for the growth and prosperity of the church, and which would bring all other blessings in its train, is lacking, though offered in its infinite plenitude. {8T 21.3}
It is the absence of the Spirit that makes the gospel ministry so powerless. Learning, talent, eloquence, every natural or acquired endowment, may be possessed; but, without the presence of the Spirit of God, no heart will be touched, no sinner won to Christ. On the other hand, if they are connected (p. 22) with Christ, if the gifts of the Spirit are theirs, the poorest and most ignorant of His disciples will have a power that will tell upon hearts. God makes them channels for the outflowing of the highest influence in the universe. {8T 21.4}
The Story of Redemption, pp. 242-247
The Descent of the Holy Spirit "And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance." The Holy Ghost, assuming the form of tongues of fire divided at the tips, and resting upon those assembled,
was an emblem of the gift which was bestowed upon them of speaking with fluency several different languages, with which they had formerly been unacquainted. And the appearance of fire signified the fervent zeal with which they would labor and the power which would attend their words. {SR 242.1}
Under this heavenly illumination the scriptures which Christ had explained to them stood forth in their minds with the vivid luster and loveliness of clear and powerful truth. The veil which had prevented them from seeing the end of that which was abolished was now removed, and the object of Christ's mission and the nature of His kingdom were comprehended with perfect clearness. {SR 242.2}
In the Power of Pentecost The Jews had been scattered to almost every nation, and spoke various languages. They had come long distances to Jerusalem, and had temporarily taken
up their abode there, to remain through the religious festivals then in progress and to observe their requirements. When assembled, they were of every known tongue. This diversity of languages was a great obstacle to the labors of God's servants in publishing the doctrine of Christ to the uttermost parts of the earth. That God should supply the deficiency of the apostles in a miraculous manner was to the people the most perfect confirmation of the testimony of these witnesses for Christ. The Holy Spirit had done for them that which they could not have accomplished for themselves in a lifetime; they could now spread the truth of the gospel abroad, speaking with accuracy the language of those for whom they were laboring. This miraculous gift was the highest evidence they could present to the world that their commission bore the signet of Heaven. {SR 242.3}
"And there were dwelling at Jerusalem Jews, devout men, out of every nation under heaven. Now when this was noised abroad, the multitude came together, and were confounded, because that every man heard them speak in his own language. And they were all amazed and marvelled, saying one to another, Behold, are not all these which speak Galileans? And how hear we every man in our own tongue, wherein we were born?" {SR 243.1}
The priests and rulers were greatly enraged at this wonderful manifestation, which was reported throughout all Jerusalem and the vicinity, but they dared not give way to their malice, for fear of exposing themselves to the hatred of the people. They had put the Master to death, but here were His servants, unlearned men of Galilee, tracing out the wonderful fulfillment of prophecy and teaching the doctrine of Jesus in all the languages then spoken. They spoke with power of the wonderful works of the Saviour, and unfolded to their hearers the plan of salvation in the mercy and sacrifice of the Son of God. Their words convicted and converted thousands who listened. The traditions and superstitions inculcated by the priests were swept away from their minds and they accepted the pure teachings of the Word of God. {SR 243.2}
Peter's Sermon Peter showed them that this manifestation was the direct fulfillment of the prophecy of Joel, wherein he foretold that such power would come upon men of God to fit them for a special work. {SR 244.1}
Peter traced back the lineage of Christ in a direct line to the honorable house of David. He did not use any of the teachings of Jesus to prove his true position, because he knew their prejudices were so great that it would be of no effect. But he referred them to David, whom the Jews regarded as a venerable patriarch of their nation. Said Peter: {SR 244.2}
"For David speaketh concerning Him, I foresaw the Lord always before my face, for He is on my right hand, that I should not be moved: therefore did my heart rejoice, and my tongue was glad; moreover also my flesh shall rest in hope: because Thou wilt not leave My soul in hell, neither wilt Thou suffer Thine Holy One to see corruption." {SR 244.3}
Peter here shows that David could not have spoken in reference to himself, but definitely of Jesus Christ. David died a natural death like other men; his sepulcher, with the honored dust it contained, had been preserved with great care until that time. David, as king of Israel, and also as a prophet, had been specially honored by God. In prophetic vision he was shown the future life and ministry of Christ. He saw His rejection, His trial, crucifixion, burial, resurrection, and ascension. {SR 244.4}
David testified that the soul of Christ was not to be left in hell (the grave), nor was His flesh to see corruption. Peter shows the fulfillment of this prophecy in Jesus of Nazareth. God had actually raised Him up from the tomb before His body saw corruption. He was now the exalted One in the heaven of heavens. {SR 245.1}
On that memorable occasion large numbers who had heretofore ridiculed the idea of so unpretending a person as Jesus being the Son of God, became thoroughly convinced of the truth and acknowledged Him as their Saviour. Three thousand souls were added to the church. The apostles spoke by the power of the Holy Ghost; and their words could not be controverted, for they were confirmed by mighty miracles, wrought by them through the outpouring of the Spirit of God. The disciples were themselves astonished at the results of this visitation, and the quick and abundant harvest of souls. All the people were filled with amazement. Those who did not yield their prejudice and bigotry were so overawed that they dared not by voice or violence attempt to stay the mighty work, and, for the time being, their opposition ceased. {SR 245.2}
The arguments of the apostles alone, although clear and convincing, would not have removed the prejudice of the Jews which had withstood so much evidence. But the Holy Ghost sent those arguments home with divine power to their hearts. They were as sharp arrows of the Almighty, convicting them of their terrible guilt in rejecting and crucifying the Lord of glory. "Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do? Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost." {SR 245.3}
Peter urged home upon the convicted people the fact that they had rejected Christ because they had been deceived by the priests and rulers; and if they continued to look to them for counsel, and waited for those leaders to acknowledge Christ before they dared to do so, they would never accept Him. Those powerful men, although they made a profession of sanctity, were ambitious, and zealous for riches and earthly glory. They would never come to Christ to receive light. Jesus had foretold a terrible retribution to come upon that people for their obstinate unbelief, notwithstanding the most powerful evidences given them that Jesus was the Son of God. {SR 246.1}
From this time forth the language of the disciples was pure, simple, and accurate in word and accent, whether they spoke their native tongue or a foreign language. These humble men, who had never learned in the school of the prophets, presented truths so elevated and pure as to astonish those who heard them. They could not go personally to the uttermost parts of the earth; but there were men at the feast from every quarter of the world, and the truths received by them were carried to their various homes and published among their people, winning souls to Christ. {SR 246.2}
A Lesson for Our Day This testimony in regard to the establishment of the Christian church is given us not only as an important portion of sacred history but also as a lesson. All who profess the name of Christ should be waiting, watching, and praying with one heart. All differences (p. 247) should be put away, and unity and tender love one for another pervade the whole. Then our prayers may go up together to our heavenly Father with strong, earnest faith. Then we may wait with patience and hope the fulfillment of the promise. {SR 246.3}
The answer may come with sudden velocity and overpowering might, or it may be delayed for days and weeks, and our faith receive a trial. But God knows how and when to answer our prayer. It is our part of the work to put ourselves in connection with the divine channel. God is responsible for His part of the work. He is faithful who hath promised. The great and important matter with us is to be of one heart and mind, putting aside all envy and malice, and, as humble supplicants, to watch and wait. Jesus, our Representative and Head, is ready to do for us what He did for the praying, watching ones on the day of Pentecost. {SR 247.1}
Acts of the Apostles, p. 39
"And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance." The Holy Spirit, assuming the form of tongues of fire, rested upon those assembled. This was an emblem of the gift then bestowed on the disciples, which enabled them to speak with fluency languages with which they had heretofore been unacquainted. The appearance of fire signified the fervent zeal with which the apostles would labor and the power that would attend their work. {AA 39.1}
"There were dwelling at Jerusalem Jews, devout men, out of every nation under heaven." During the dispersion the Jews had been scattered to almost every part of the inhabited world, and in their exile they had learned to speak various languages. Many of these Jews were on this occasion in Jerusalem, attending the religious festivals then in progress. Every known tongue was represented by those assembled. This diversity of languages would have been a great hindrance to the proclamation of the gospel;
God therefore in a miraculous manner supplied the deficiency of the apostles. The Holy Spirit did for them that which (p. 40) they could not have accomplished for themselves in a lifetime. They could now proclaim the truths of the gospel abroad, speaking with accuracy the languages of those for whom they were laboring. This miraculous gift was a strong evidence to the world that their commission bore the signet of Heaven. From this time forth the language of the disciples was pure, simple, and accurate, whether they spoke in their native tongue or in a foreign language. {AA 39.2}
Testimonies for the Church, vol 1, p. 412
Some of these persons have exercises which they call gifts and say that the Lord has placed them in the church. They have an unmeaning gibberish which they call the unknown tongue, which is unknown not only by man but by the Lord and all heaven. Such gifts are manufactured by men and women, aided by the great deceiver. Fanaticism, false excitement, false talking in tongues, and noisy exercises have been considered gifts which God has placed in the church. Some have been deceived here. The fruits of all this have not been good. "Ye shall know them by their fruits." Fanaticism and noise have been considered special evidences of faith. Some are not satisfied with a meeting unless they have a powerful and happy time. They work for this and get up an excitement of feeling. But the influence of such meetings is not beneficial. When the happy flight of feeling is gone, they sink lower than before the meeting because their happiness did not come from the right source. The most profitable meetings for spiritual advancement are those which are characterized with solemnity and deep searching of heart; each seeking to know himself, and earnestly, and in deep humility, seeking to learn of Christ. {1T 412.1}
Brother Lunt of Portland, Maine, has suffered much in his feelings. He has felt that the spirit which often ruled in their meetings was not in harmony with the message of the third angel. He has had an experience in the fanaticism which has left desolation in the East, and this leads him to look with suspicion upon everything which appears like fanaticism. He has the past before him as a warning and has felt like keeping aloof from, and speaking plainly with, those who had any (p. 413) degree of fanaticism, for he felt that both they and the cause of God were in danger. He has looked upon things in about the right light. {1T 412.2}
Acts 1:14 NKJV 14 These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with His brothers.


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Proving she's still capable of captivating audiences more than fifty years after her death, Marilyn Monroe was today announced as Max Factor's new global glamour ambassador.
As the 'new face' of the makeup brand, Marilyn will have a starring role in Max Factor's 2015 advertising campaign.
Marilyn, who died aged 36 in 1962, was a client of Max Factor in the 1940s and Max Factor's son Max Factor Junior is believed to have been instrumental in her transformation from would-be starlet Norma Jeane into blonde bombshell Marilyn Monroe.
Max Factor global creative design director, Pat McGrath said: 'Marilyn made the sultry red lip, creamy skin and dramatically lined eyes the most famous beauty look of the Forties and it's a look that continues to dominate the beauty and fashion industry.
She added: 'It is the ultimate look that defines glamour – nothing else compares. Ruby Tuesday, inspired by one of Marilyn's favourite Max Factor lipsticks, is still my go-to red today for an instant shot of glamour, and continues to be one of the most popular shades for both make-up artists and real women.'
It's not the enduring star's first posthumous beauty campaign either – she was the face of Chanel No. 5 in 2013 (famously the only thing she wore to bed). The Some Like It Hot actress also inspired a makeup range for MAC makeup in 2012.
In fact, last year, Monroe was ranked sixth in Forbes magazine's annual list of the highest-earning dead celebrities – she makes an estimated £11m a year.
And many a modern star has attempt to harness some of that old-Hollywood Marilyn magic, from Gwyneth Paltrow and Lindsay Lohan, to Scarlett Johansson and even Angelina Jolie.
But, it seems we all still prefer the world's most famous blonde.
MORE: Get your inspirational Marilyn Monroe quote here
MORE: Marilyn Monroe death conspiracy theories: Who or what killed Marilyn?


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Set in a 2-storey colonial-era mansion, Nigel wanted his proposal to Sherhan to be a truly transformative one. Sherhan was brought to the mansion thinking that it was a friend's gathering. In actual fact, the mansion was fully decorated with their significant photos and items from their journey together.
As she opened the door to the mansion, a stunning 4metre by 2metre backdrop with a collage of all their photos first greeted her. And she would subsequently find all their significant items that were quietly spirited away from her home without her knowing. Lovely cues were there to guide her along the way, while the merry group of friends while doing their best to control their excitement at their hiding place.
Walking through the final door on the second storey, a wide space greeted her. It was just like a living room, filled with sofa, coffee tables and a projected screen. The make-up artist invited her to take a seat on the sofa and started to doll up an excited but slightly puzzled Sherhan. At the same time, the projector started screening video messages from the couple's friends all over the world. She couldn't help tearing up. While she was undergoing her transformation with dress and heels (specially bought by Nigel) waiting for her, the main hall was also rapidly transformed with flowers decoration and a special 'walkway' for her.
As she opened the door to the main hall, she gasped at both the transformed place and also the two rows of friends who cheered for her excitedly. And Nigel, standing at the end of the path, beckoned to her sweetly…
Lots of Love,
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Baby Cashmerino Tonal
Baby Cashmerino Tonals, is a range of 10 fantastically shaded contemporary tones in the extremely popular Baby Cashmerino. The colour of each gently ebbs and flows with intensity, leaving you with an even, mottled finish.
A soft mix of 55% wool, 12% cashmere 33% acrylic.
50g ball, RRP £5.50
3.25mm needles
10x10 tension = 34rows x 25sts
Showing 1 to 7 of 7 (1 Pages)


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Celebrate Portland Rose Fest with Lyft
Since launching Lyft Portland in April, we've learned that in the Rose City, one event reigns supreme: the Portland Rose Festival. We're excited to announce that we're the official ridesharing partner of the 2015 Rose Festival.
From May 26 until June 7, you'll find Lyft at all your favorite Rose Festival events, including the Starlight After-Party on May 30, featuring Sir Mix-A-Lot. So skip worrying about driving and parking and take Lyft instead.
Even Lyft cars are blooming for the occasion — our friends at Tonkin Fiat have provided us with a fleet of rose-covered convertibles to transport the Rose Festival Royalty at the Starlight Parade on May 30. But these sweet rides aren't just for parade princesses. The floral Fiats will be around from May 30 until June 7, so request a ride in the next two weeks and you might get the royal treatment!
For a full list of Rose Festival events, see their website.


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In January 2012, the management of Stefan Company concludes that it has sufficient cash to permit some short-term investments in debt and stock securities. During the year, the following transactions occurred.
Feb. 1 Purchased 600 shares of Superior common stock for $31,800, plus brokerage fees of $600.
Mar. 1 Purchased 800 shares of Pawlik common stock for $20,000, plus brokerage fees of $400.
Apr. 1 Purchased 50 $1,000, 7% Venice bonds for $50,000, plus $1,000 brokerage fees. Interest is payable semiannually on April 1 and October 1.
July 1 Received a cash dividend of $0.60 per share on the Superior common stock.
Aug. 1 Sold 200 shares of Superior common stock at $58 per share less brokerage fees of $200.
Sept. 1 Received a $1 per share cash dividend on the Pawlik common stock.
Oct. 1 Received the semiannual interest on the Venice bonds.
Oct. 1 Sold the Venice bonds for $50,000 less $1,000 brokerage fees.
At December 31, the fair value of the Superior common stock was $55 per share. The fair value of the Pawlik common stock was $24 per share.
(a) Journalize the transactions and post to the accounts Debt Investments and Stock Investments. (Use the T-account form.)(a) Gain on stock sale $600 use T-account form
(b) Prepare the adjusting entry at December 31, 2012, to report the investment securities at fair value. All securities are considered to be trading securities.
(c) Show the balance sheet presentation of investment securities at December 31, 2012.
(d) Identify the income statement accounts and give the statement classification of each account.


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Winery Tours and Bike Tours
- Bike Tours
- Historic Homesteads
- Gold Mining Towns
- Wineries
- Aboriginal sites
We offer both bus and bike tours to suit your ability and interest.
If you enjoy cycling but don't enjoy the long ride home, let us take you and your bike to or from your destination. Cumberland House B&B has a quality bus and purpose-built bike trailer designed to stow your luggage and transport you and your bike in comfort and safety.
Cumberland House B&B will collect you and your bike from accommodation anywhere within the Central Goldfields of Victoria. Transfers to and from Melbourne can be arranged by appointment.
Phone: (03) 5468 7473
Mob: 0418 303 065
Email: email@example.com
Web: www.cumberlandhouse.net.au/index.php/tours
Powers Buslines Avoca
Specialising in tours in the famous Pyrenees Wineries Area and visiting the award winning Wineries of the region.
We offer:
- 21 seat buses, airconditioned for your comfort
- 57 seat buses, airconditioned for your comfort
Tours of all types including:
- Organised winery tours with a tour guide if required
- Charter tours to various Melbourne and country events
- School excursions
- Tours of Pyrenees places of interest
- Family outings
- Office parties and trips
Call us now for a no obligation quote.
Phone: (03) 5465 3119
Mobile: 0418 394 368
Email: email@example.com
Golden Nugget Winery Tours
"Premium Wines, Fabulous Food and Magnificent Views"
Tour Highlights
- Visit up to 8 wineries
- Gourmet Lunch at winery
- Complimentary bottle of French wine
- Pentanque Tours
- Complimentary bottled water
- Breathtaking vistas of the Pyrenees Ranges
Your Itinerary
- Taste premium wines, fabulous food, while enjoying the magnificent views of the Pyrenees Ranges plus discover the Villages of the Old Goldfields
- The Pyrenees has a French influence, so most of the wineries have a petanque piste, so there is a chance you will have a glass of wine in one hand and boule in another!
Featured Wineries
- Mt Beckworth
- Amherst
- Mount Avoca
- Blue Pyrenees Estate
- Warrenmang
- Taltarni
- Romantic Vineyard
- Dalwhinnie
- Summerfield
Phone: (03) 5332 9199
Mobile: 0407 542 796
Email: email@example.com
Web: www.goldennuggettours.com.au


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A nice review for SubCultures from the Otaku Journalist ("Where Journalism and Fandom Collide"), who highlights the book in her SPX coverage:
Reporting on subculture with empathy and understanding
"...this year my favorite discovery wasn't just one artist, but an entire collection of them. I bought SubCultures Comics Anthology after talking to its editor, Whit Taylor. Contributors shared 37 different stories about fan communities that edge on the bizarre, from Steampunks to cryptozoologists to Real Doll connoisseurs...." (Read the full review)


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Wowzers....this thing will make your ass cry with happinessThis is one of my favorite prostate toys. I use it to masturbate with; I use it to have hands free prostate orgasms, and I also use it to strengthen my PC muscles so that my experience with other massagers and sex in general is enhanced. This is a toy that every person interested in prostate stimulation should have in their quiver.
Can provide some intense Prostate orgasms.
Might be difficult for a beginner to get the hang of, but that is the same with any anal toy.
So I picked up the beginners Peridise set after having owned several other Aneros prostate massagers. I was initially stunned by the diminutive size of the two units that came in the package, but I have since learned that this in no way detracts from the experience. The first time I put it in (the larger of the two as recommended), it immediately felt good. It went straight in and grazed my pspot. Instead of trying to go for a hands free session, I just used it while I masturbated, and it really did enhance the experience. The basic idea is that as your sphincter muscles contract and grasp the base of the Peridise, the head of the toy dances around bouncing off of your prostate. As I've gotten to the stage of being able to have a "super O," I have come to enjoy starting some of my sessions with the Peridise instead of one of my other larger aneros massagers that have a P-tab attached. The orgasms I have had with it have been nothing short of exquisite. If you are contemplating a prostate massager for the first time, I would recommend buying this as a muscle trainer; using it often will help you achieve hands free prostate orgasms, and it just feels amazing anyways. I have used it during intercourse, and while that has been fun, it didn't knock my socks off like I assumed it would while having sex. I would be interested to try it in a partner as they suggest....I just need to find someone willing first! All in all, a fabulous toy for those looking to broaden their sexual fulfillment
Material / Texture
Like all Aneros prostate toys, the Peridise is made of a hard hypoallergenic and safe plastic. It is smooth and seam free. It is definitely not a realistic toy, and I think that that is pretty obvious from looking at the pictures of it. As a beginner looking into prostate stimulation, I can't think of anything that is less intimidating than the peridise. It might take a while to see results if you haven't tried prostate massage before, but they will slowly come if you are patient, and boy are they worth it.
Design / Shape / Size
This is a comparatively small toy. Well, since there are two in the beginners set, they are both small. The difference between the two of them is that the head of the smaller one is narrower and consequently has a more pointy and less bulbous tip that the larger one of the pair. I find the sensations I feel when using the smaller one to be simply amazing. I used it this last weekend for an hour long session that literally left me drooling and buzzing for several hours after. This of course speaks to the fact that it is designed quite well, and does an amazing job at both stimulating the prostate and strengthening the muscles involved in having prostate orgasms. Comparing the shape of this toy to any other on the market makes it obvious how unique it is as far as design is concerned. Overall, this is a very innovative and satisfying toy.
What I really like about the Peridise is that it seems to be almost laser guided in its path to the prostate. Larger massagers provide a much fuller feeling that I also really enjoy, but the Peridise offers something more subtle and just as intense. Each has their place, and I can't claim to have a preference. My butt sort of tells me what it wants and I go from there. I find that the Peridise is also nice as opposed to other prostate toys in that it can be used at almost any time. Case in point, I was having a session the other day when friend popped in unexpectedly. He asked if I wanted to go for a moped ride, and I said yes and just headed out with the Peridise in (no I was not caught using it!). In any case, I orgasmed my way down town to the hardware store and all the way back. The vibrations from the seat transmitted through the base of the Peridise and up to my prostate. Probably not the safest moped ride, but definitely the best I have ever had. If you are curious about using a prostate massager during intercourse but are unsure about how your partner will feel about it, the Peridise can be used discreetly enough not to be noticed. I have used the Peridise on several occasions incognito, and it was a fun enhancement. I think it would be better with a willing partner, but that is a different story altogether.
Care and Maintenance
Care an maintenance is pretty easy for this little guy. The plastic it is made from is nonporous and hard. I usually rinse it in hot water than lather it up with antibacterial soap and put it away for another use. The best and safest lube I have used is unrefined Shea Butter that can usually be purchased at health food stores. It lasts a long time in the rectum and is liquid at body temperature. In a pinch I have used Albolene oil. In general I have found that water/glycerin based lubes don't last long enough and cause flatulence... not sure why this is the case, but it certainly has been my experience. I have also found that rinsing and then wiping the Peridise with an alcohol gel works as well, and does not pose any problems to the toy.
This content is the opinion of the submitting contributor and is not endorsed by EdenFantasys.com
Interesting stuff, thanks!
Great review. Going to have to try these
good review
Thanks for the review!
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Cat Dog Toe Christmas 🐱🐶🎄
A Merry Christmas!
Imagine you can play Tic Tac Toe, 5 in Row and more games with Cat and Dog
because now you can!!🐱🐶
Cat Dog Toe Christmas is a fun way to interact with your children or just have a good time while waiting for Santa Claus🎅.
You and your family can have a great time together. 👍
Xmas time, have a Merry Christmas in the company of your family and this cute free Christmas Game. 🎄
This fun and free game is a perfect gift for you and your family! 🎁
The name of the game say's all.
Game Features:
🔹 😃🤖 One player game-play, human against Android device.
🔸 😃😃 Two player game-play, human against human.
🔹 (3) Three difficulty levels.
🔸 3 in row, 4 in row, 5 in row and more.
🔹 Flexible grid size, flexible victory conditions.
🔸 Smart AI (We guarantee that the AI won't keep making the same moves over and over again.).
🔹 🎲 Random Factor in Hard Mode (Sometimes the AI will make a "mistake" so you can win :) )
🔸 Great and Cut Xmas 🎄 Graphics.
🔹 Fun Christmas 🎄 Sounds.
🔸 Large Screens Support.
🔹 5 pre saved games
🔸 Save and create your own levels.
🔹 Cat Vs Dog 🐱🐶.
🔸 Teach kids strategic thinking.
Don't waste paper use this Game to play and have fun with your Kids and Friends for Free.
Merry Christmas and a happy 2018.
Kitty vs Doggy, choose your field playing Tic Tac Toe, 4 in Row, 5 in Row and more. ⭕❌
It is a mega tic tac toe free Christmas game. 🎄


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Mad Men Season 5 Finale
SPOILER ALERT: This post contains references to tonight's Mad Men episode. Do not read any further if you want to avoid knowing what happened!
I'm not going to write a long article about television and pose as a critic, I just want to mention that Megan Draper's desperate attempt to become an actress reminds me of what I've been writing about the last few days. A girl, who is beautiful, intelligent, gifted, and an incredible ad writer, who thinks she should really be an actress. She hates her mother for telling her the truth, that she has an artist's temperment without the ability to create any real art, that in reality not everyone can grow up to be what they want to be. Her mother calls her ungrateful, and Megan blames her for not being more supportive. Finally, she sinks so low that she uses her husband's pull to land an advertisement. Don is confused. Megan had been so adamant that she was an artist – meant for the theater, or something with meaning. To her, advertising had never been true art. Yet, here she was, begging for a chance to actually work again in advertising. Despite Don's advice that she didn't want success to be given to her, that she didn't want to land a role because she was someone's wife, eventually he acquiesced and got her the part. Megan was so happy – she felt like she was truly acting.
Don, however, walked off the set and into a dark and smoky bar. At the episode's end, he is approached by a good-looking woman who asks him if he's alone. The scene goes dark before we hear the answer. My guess is he says "Yes." His wife, who all season long has acted as his moral compass, has just revealed that she too is capable of selling out. Without her guidence, Don is lost. Megan doesn't respect that advertising requires true talent, believing she's meant for greater, more "artistic" heights. She longs to be successful in a craft she has no special talent for. She reminds me of myself as a young kid who once thought he was too smart to work in a liquor store.
Fortunately for me, no one reinforced my entitled way of thinking and I learned that working with booze was a fantastic opportunity I was overlooking. Unfortunately for Megan, her loving husband did. Now it appears he may regret it.
-David Driscoll


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Cannot play media. Sorry, this media is not available in your territory.
As part of her Wild Five series that's looking at UK animals in danger, Leah's been to the Scottish Highlands to see wildcats.
Years of hunting and breeding with domestic cats has dealt them a massive blow and now just 400 pure wildcats are left.


text: Ernest never learned to compliment. "Your face," he says to Belinda, "looks like a thousand tiny suns, all converging in a massive eclipse." "Your eyes," he says to Emily, "are like apple seeds, except bigger, and shinier." "You're pretty and everything," he says to his barista, "but really, it's your insides I'm interested in." This time it registers. Words don't work; gestures do. He brings her a cup of coffee at her café. "For you," he says. "Is this from down the street?" she asks. "This coffee is like my feelings—hot," he says. "Then keep it," she says, "please."


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Newsletters Sign-Up
Plans & Pricing
Does My Company Subscribe?
Online sales in China are flourishing. According to a new eMarketer report, "China Ecommerce: A Developing Market Begins to Boom," consumers are embracing the internet's ability to offer comparison shopping and product research, and marketers are eager to expand operations beyond flagship stores in established markets like Shanghai and Beijing.
As consumers in China become more comfortable buying goods online, the number of online buyers on the mainland will rise to nearly 220 million this year, further outpacing the US total of approximately 150 million, eMarketer estimates. No other country even approaches this size. By 2016, eMarketer forecasts, 423.4 million people in China ages 14 and older will make an online purchase at least annually.
Last year, business-to-consumer (B2C) ecommerce sales in China, including retail ecommerce and travel spending, reached $55.37 billion, up 103.7% over 2010, eMarketer estimates. Such sales are expected to rise another 94.1% this year, to nearly $107.5 billion. Already the second-largest B2C ecommerce market in Asia-Pacific in terms of sales behind Japan, China is the fourth-largest market in the world as ranked by B2C ecommerce sales. The country's ecommerce sales are expected to surpass those of Japan and grab the global second-place slot from the UK in 2013.
China's fast B2C ecommerce sales growth puts it far ahead of any other country for which eMarketer creates estimates. China will continue to hold the top spot for ecommerce sales growth throughout eMarketer's forecast period, even as growth in the country slows to 22.8% by 2016.
Stilll there are plenty of nuances to the ecommerce market in China. Westerners mostly shop online for convenience, but in China the kick for the click is driven much more by availability and value. Shopping online means access to brands and goods otherwise not available beyond Tier 2 cities. "Try buying the latest Sony camera or a limited-edition Louis Vuitton bag somewhere like Datong without going online," said Tim Schlick, senior vice president of strategy and market development for Asia-Pacific at Thoughtful Media Group in Shanghai.
And foreign internet brands face hurdles entering China. The country's ecommerce market, like its search, social networking, instant messaging and gaming sectors, is currently dominated by a handful of local giants. And while online shopping certainly is on the rise, China still faces rampant piracy and counterfeiting problems. Other challenges include ruthless competition and price wars, marketing and supply-chain costs, and uncertain taxation policies.
The full report, "China Ecommerce: A Developing Market Begins to Boom," also answers these key questions:
This report is available to eMarketer corporate subscription clients only. Total Access clients, log in and view the report now.
Check out today's other articles, "National Brands Find Local Affiliates Lacking in Search, Mobile Marketing" and "Social Is Still a Small Part of Customer Service."
You've never experienced research like this.
Nearly all Fortune 500 companies rely on us.
Inquire about corporate subscriptions today.


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Live Adult Entertainment
Free Admission 6-8pm
August 19 @ 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
|Recurring Event (See all)
An event every week that begins at 6:00pm on Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday, repeating until December 31, 2019
Get here early and receive FREE admission 6pm-8pm daily.
View our beautiful Centerfolds here.
Make your reservation now!


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Quick Links
Riverview Disc Golf Course
The North Shore of Oakland Mills Park, four miles south of Mt. Pleasant is the
home of the nine-hole Riverview Disc Golf Course. Spenser Burden, as an Eagle
Scout, worked with the Conservation staff to help construct the disc golf
CLICK HERE TO VIEW COURSE LAYOUT (.pdf)
This course is on rolling hills and the manicured fairways are lined with native
grasses. Some fairways are lined with newly planted pine trees that make a
beautiful course that sits along the Skunk River. According to course designer
and avid disc golfer, Bill Dowell, the disc golf course at Oakland Mills is the
100th PDGA registered course in the state of Iowa.
This course is free for all to play. All you need is a disc, which you may
purchase at local retailers.
The course is open year-round, so plan a picnic and stay the day!
The Riverview Disc Golf Course now features an enclosed shelter house, which can
be reserved. A $25.00 reservation fee does apply. Reservations can be made at


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Creamy Cashew Brownies
My sister-in-law dubbed me the "dessert queen" because of treats like this that I take to our family get-togethers. The brownies have a fudge-like texture and a rich cream cheese topping. Cashews and a hot fudge swirl make these pretty bars special.
Total TimePrep: 15 min. Bake: 25 min. + chilling
Makes2 dozen
- 1 package fudge brownie mix (13-inch x 9-inch pan size)
- 1/3 cup water
- 1/4 cup canola oil
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup (6 ounces) semisweet chocolate chips
- 2 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
- 1-1/2 cups confectioners' sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup salted cashews, coarsely chopped
- 1/2 cup hot fudge ice cream topping, warmed
- In a large bowl, combine the brownie mix, water, oil and egg. Stir in chips. Spread into a greased 13x9-in. baking pan. Bake at 350° for 25-27 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean (do not overbake). Cool on a wire rack.
- For topping, in a large bowl, beat the cream cheese, confectioners' sugar and vanilla until smooth. Spread over brownies. Sprinkle with cashews; drizzle with hot fudge topping. Refrigerate before cutting. Store in the refrigerator.
Originally published as Creamy Cashew Brownies in Taste of Home April/May 2005
Recommended Video
My Review
Mar 12, 2012
These are really good but very, very rich.
Jul 6, 2011
You can't go wrong with brownies topped with cream cheese frosting! My only disappointment in these is that if you didn't know the nuts were cashews, you wouldn't have been able to guess it...and I even stirred 1 c. cashews into the batter as well as sprinkling them on top. May just used walnuts next time and save the more expensive cashews for something where their flavor shines through more.


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Clerk Tries To Steal Winning Lottery Ticket From Winner
A clerk in Florida is not doing anything to help her karma situation after she tried to stealthily steal a "customer'"s winning lotto ticket. Also, the "customer" was actually an undercover agent for the Florida Lottery on a routine visit to a Winn-Dixie Liquor store in Fort Myers. The agent says he approached the counter with a winning ticket worth $6,000, but when he handed it to 42-year-old Crystelle Yvette she handed him back $5 (that she took out of her own pocketbook.) Baton was arrested and charged with larceny grand theft. (Newser)