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ELTI Members
Council of Europe Development Bank (CEB)
Council of Europe Development Bank (CEB)
The Council of Europe Development Bank (CEB) is a multilateral development bank with an exclusively social mandate.
Through the provision of financing and technical expertise for projects with a high social impact in its member states, it actively promotes social cohesion and strengthens social integration in Europe.
The CEB represents a major instrument of the policy of solidarity in Europe. It participates in financing social projects, responds to emergency situations and contributes to improving the living conditions of the most disadvantaged population groups.
The CEB contributes to the implementation of socially oriented investment projects through three sectoral lines of action, namely:
- Sustainable and inclusive growth
- Integration of refugees, displaced persons and migrants;
- Climate action: developing adaptation and mitigation measures.
The CEB carries out its mission within the strategic framework of a formal "Development Plan" that describes the logic underpinning its action and sets forth guidelines for the activity in the medium term in relation to the operational context within which the Bank operates. The current Development Plan covers the period 2017-2019.
The CEB has its origins in the political upheavals that Europe experienced following the Second World War, leading to a flood of refugees and displaced persons into Western Europe.
The oldest European multilateral development bank, the CEB was established in 1956 by eight Member States of the Council of Europe on the basis of a partial agreement in order to bring solutions to the problems of refugees. Signed on 16 April 1956 by eight countries, the Bank is the first of the Partial Agreements to have been concluded.
Key dates in the history of the CEB
- 1956: the CEB was created in the form of a Resettlement Fund with a capital of less than 7 million US dollars.\
- 1960s-1980s: over the decades, the CEB steadily increased its membership, financial resources and scope of action in line with changes in social priorities. Born in the aftermath of a divided Europe, the CEB experienced particular impetus with the reunification of the European continent after the fall of the Berlin Wall. More specifically, three Council of Europe Summits of Heads of State and Government, helped shape what the Bank is today.
- 1993: the Vienna Summit signalled a wave of new members from the countries of Central, Eastern, and then South-Eastern Europe joining the Bank, which at the time was still a Fund.
- 1997: the Strasbourg Summit widened the CEB's mandate to include strengthening social cohesion, alongside the priorities set out in its Articles of Agreement.
- 2005: the Warsaw Summit, whilst continuing to support the Bank's traditional mission, also invited the CEB to contribute in its own way to the development of a free, democratic and more inclusive European society.
- Since 2008, the protracted crisis in Europe and its impact on the lives of populations have made the CEB's mandate and action as a social development bank more relevant than ever.
Relations with the Council of Europe
Working to strengthen social cohesion in accordance with its mandate, through its lending activity the Bank promotes the values and principles of the Council of Europe. It is nevertheless a separate legal entity and financially independent.
As evidence of these institutional links, the Secretary General of the Council of Europe issues an opinion on admissibility in terms of compliance with the Council of Europe's political and social objectives for all the projects that the Bank submits to its Administrative Council for approval.
Member countries
The CEB has 41 member states who are the Bank's shareholders. All countries that are members of the Council of Europe are eligible to join the CEB.
*Target countries
Bosnia and Herzegovina*
Czech Republic*
Holy See
Republic of Moldova*
San Marino
Slovak Republic*
"The former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia"*
The CEB can provide loans to any of its member states, in accordance with its mandate. The Bank may also receive voluntary contributions from its members, through fiduciary accounts.
A member country can be both a donor and a recipient of loans.
*As a sign of solidarity among the CEB member states, the Bank aims to provide increased support to a group of 22 "target countries" of Central, Eastern and South-Eastern Europe: Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Estonia, Georgia, Hungary, Kosovo, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Moldova (Republic of), Montenegro, Poland, Romania, Serbia, Slovak Republic, Slovenia, "the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia" and Turkey.


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Railways to pay all contractual, outsourced staff
New Delhi, March 24 (IANS) In view of the novel coronavirus crisis in India, the Indian Railways on Tuesday announced that it shall make the payment to the contractual and outsourced railway staff during the period of the suspension of the passenger train services.
The Railway Board in a circular to the employees said, "Due to prevailing Covid-19 situation in India, vide Railway Board letter under reference above decision has already been taken to stop the passenger services till March, 31."
The railways said that due to this several contractual staff engaged in OBHS, AC on train, sanitation, pantry car and commercial activities etc have been stranded and have to compulsorily stay at other places, while others have to be in readiness to attend the duties at short notice," it said.
"In order to reduce the hardship being faced by these workers, Railway Board has decided to treat the employees of private establishments (including temporary/contractual/outsourced etc) engaged in providing services in trains, stations and offices, directly affected with suspension of services and lockdown situations, as on duty and be paid accordingly till the expiry of suspension of services/lockdown or as advised by Central government in this regard," the Board said. "This is applicable on contracts awarded on manpower basis," the Board added.
It further said that the maximum payment which may be made, shall be limited to 70 per cent of the contract value for contracts awarded on lump sum basis (i.e. not on manpower basis).
It said that the railways are advised to ensure that such employees are not retrenched due to the suspension of services/lockdown and are paid in the manner prescribed above. The Railways has around 13 lakh permanent employees and over 4.5 lakh contractual and outsourced staff.
Following the COVID-19 crisis in India, which has claimed 10 lives and over 500 persons have tested positive for the same, the railways has announced suspension of the passenger, mail and express trains since Monday, keeping over 13,600 trains from the tracks. Only freight trains are in service to ensure the supply of essential commodities.

subset: commoncrawl


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TALLADEGA, Ala.—On the outside, Unicor, with its big oaks and magnolia trees, looks like it could be part of a landscaped industrial park. Step a little closer and it's clear the apparel shop lies in the middle of a medium-security federal prison in east Alabama.
The factory and those like it that employ convicted felons are at the heart of a simmering debate about whether prisons should be siphoning away jobs—at much lower wages—that could be filled by those who need them during the nation's toughest period of unemployment in decades.
Congressional Republicans, a handful of Democrats and private-industry critics want to clamp down on Unicor, the trade name for Federal Prison Industries.
Almost 13,000 inmates working in federal lockups around the country for a few dollars a day make everything from military uniforms to office furniture to electrical parts that are sold exclusively to federal agencies. With annual revenues that reached $900 million last year, Unicor is the federal government's 36th-largest vendor.
Corrections officials say the program teaches prisoners invaluable job skills and personal discipline that help cut down on their return to prison. Inmates who work in the program are 24 percent less likely to commit more crimes than other prisoners after being released, they say.
"While it operates as a business, the real output is inmates who are trained in marketable job skills so that they can return to the community as productive members of society," Philip J. Sibal, senior deputy assistant director of Federal Prison Industries, told a congressional committee earlier this year.
But Misti Keeton's eyes welled with tears at the thought of losing her job to a convict. She sews military apparel in the west Alabama town of Fayette at American Power Source. The company is laying off about 50 workers at her plant and another one in Columbus, Miss., after losing a contract to make Air Force exercise garb to Unicor.
"I'm terrified," Keeton said as she fed camouflage cloth through a machine with one hand and wiped away tears with the other. "I've got two teenagers at home. I don't know what I'm supposed to say to them if I lose this job. I don't know what I'm supposed to feed them."
Critics of the program say Unicor undercuts private companies because of lower operating costs and laws that require federal agencies to use inmate-produced products when able.
Inmates in the Talladega prison factory are paid by the pieces of clothing they complete and average around $150 a month, which goes into an account at the prison. At American Power Source, workers make $9.25 an hour average, or about $1,480 a month based on a 40-hour week.
Federal prisoners, though, haven't taken huge numbers of jobs away from private industry. Private groups supporting limits on Unicor's operation have documented only 300 or so layoffs directly linked to private companies losing work to federal prisoners, all at four textile plants in Alabama and Tennessee.
And, though Unicor doesn't have to pay benefits like many private employers, Talladega plant manager Robert Bynum said the factories face a challenge other businesses don't: Making quality products with convicted felons, many of whom don't know how to work.
"Every day I get guys who've never had a job," said Bynum. Correctional officers are stationed all around the prison, but not inside the factory unless needed.
The tension between private jobs and rehabilitating prisoners has hounded the prison industry program since it began under President Franklin D. Roosevelt during the Great Depression in 1934, when the national unemployment rate was 22 percent.
Back then, the American Federation of Labor opposed creating a prison-based manufacturing network, arguing it would suck jobs away from the private sector at a time when working people needed every job they could get. The arguments today against Unicor are similar as the nation tries to escape lingering high unemployment following the worst recession since before World War II.
Federal agencies are now required to purchase items when possible from Unicor. However, Rep. Bill Huizenga, R-Mich., is the primary sponsor of legislation to change that.
Among other things, the proposal that has drawn bipartisan support would subject prison factories to direct competition with private business by removing a requirement that makes Unicor the "mandatory source" for some products for government agencies.
The House passed such legislation in 2003 and 2006 before it stalled in the Senate both times; this year's version got stuck in the committee that held the hearing where Sibal spoke in June.
"We'll get started again early in the next Congress, and I think we've got a good opportunity to get something done," said John M. Palatiello of the Business Coalition for Fair Competition, which supports the bill.
But with Unicor plants at 66 prisons nationwide, critics say prisoners are doing work that law-abiding citizens could be performing. The operation isn't nearly as big as just a few years ago because the sluggish economy and tight budgets have reduced government orders, forcing the Bureau of Prisons to close or downsize 43 Unicor factories nationwide.
James Hamm isn't following the Unicor debate closely, but he knows all about prison factories: He's serving 38 years for bank robbery at the Talladega Federal Correctional Institution, which houses 1,050 prisoners. Hamm is among the 210 inmates who produce military apparel in a 30,000-square-foot factory at the prison.
Hamm, 34, has used prison wages to pay his court-ordered fine of $1,200, and he earned the high school equivalency degree that was required as part of his participation in Unicor. He said the prison job has taught him about hard work and responsibility—things he didn't know anything about on the outside.
"Every morning I get up at the same time, whether it's a holiday or weekend," Hamm said. "I come to work every day."
About 130 miles away on the other side of Alabama, Keeton does the same thing at American Power Source.
Keeton sympathizes with the need to rehabilitate prisoners in a way few others might—she's a former inmate herself. Keeton served time at a state prison on drug-related charges but is now laboring in the same building where her mother worked for 27 years for a different apparel maker.
"The government doesn't want me on welfare," she said. "They don't want me to be a repeat offender. So why are they going to give my job to someone who is not going to come to this plant when they get out of prison?"
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preHempt CBD Boutique
Get healthy, not high!
Getting healthy starts with wellness!
Grow Towards Wellness
Using CBD products for your self-care practice can be a powerful way to create change and care for yourself.
Choose to live a healthy and fulfilling life. Wellness is more than being free from illness: it is a process of change and growth towards a mentally and physically healthy lifestyle.
Your Health & Wellness Matter
In order to live a higher quality life, maintaining optimal wellness is key. Everything we feel and do relates to our well-being and directly affects our actions and emotions. In order to subdue stress, reduce illness, and ensure positive moments in your life, you must achieve optimal wellness.
How does ONE thing do so much?
To achieve optimal wellness, one must apply it towards every possible endeavor. CBD doesn't "do" the work. CBD signals the body to do the work. When we supplement our bodies with cannabinoids and feed our cannabinoid receptors, our Endogenous Cannabinoid System begins to work properly and begins to self-regulate and self-correct.
Get Healthy, Not High!
FDA Disclosure
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food & Drug Administration and are in no way intended to treat or diagnose any physical ailment or disease. Please consult your Doctor before adding CBD or any supplement to your diet. Most workplace and competitive sports drug screens focus on delta-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and do not screen for Cannabinol (CBD) or other legal and natural hemp based compounds. Be advised, studies have shown that consuming hemp foods or oils can cause a positive result when screening urine and blood specimens. Therefore, if you are subject any form of drug testing or screening we recommended (as does the United States Armed Services) that you DO-NOT ingest CBD or hemp oil. Prior to consuming these products please consult with your healthcare practitioner or your drug screening testing company or employer.


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There are some repairs that every homeowner should learn to do. There are others, though, that always need a professional's touch. Here are three types of repairs that fall into each category:
DIY: Basic Leak Repair- You'd be amazed how easy it is to fix a leaky faucet. Tightening up a few bolts or replacing a simple part can let you get the job done in a flash, saving you a great deal of money and making you feel like a home repair pro. These simple jobs should almost always be attempted first by the homeowner before looking for professional help.
Professional: Installing New Plumbing- If you're looking at installing new plumbing, though, you're going to need to get some help from a professional. Plumbing systems are incredibly complex and even a small mistake can lead to expensive consequences. While you should be able to take care of small leaks on your own, going after the big problems almost always requires calling a plumber.
DIY: Patch Repairs- There are many repairs that fall into the category of simple patch repairs. From fixing a simple hole in your drywall to replacing the locks on your doors, these are jobs that take little to no special training and that can be done by almost any homeowner. Though these jobs are small, knowing how to take care of them you can save you quite a bit of time and money.
Professional: Drywall Replacement- Although you can likely patch a hole yourself, you definitely shouldn't be installing drywall on your own if you don't know what you're doing. If you're looking at any kind of repair that involves major demolition and reconstruction, you'll want a professional handyman's help; doing so is the best way to ensure that you don't cause structural problems while you're trying to fix basic problems. A handyman can help with things like large drywall damage and basic carpentry.
DIY and Professional: Toilet Replacement- This is the only home repair that we're covering that could really go either way. If you're just looking to replace a toilet seat or you need to install a basic toilet, the good news is that the process is incredibly straightforward and can be done quickly. However, if you're looking at a specialized toilet or anything that involves a major plumbing change, you'll want to hire a professional.


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If your goal is to grow near-term as well as long-term wealth, investing your money could be your ticket to it. If you're new to investing, you may believe certain myths that could come back to bite you. Here are a handful you shouldn't buy into.
1. Investing is only for the wealthy
While having more money to invest opens the door to more opportunities, you don't need to be rich to open a brokerage account and start putting your money to work. In fact, many brokerages don't impose account minimums, so you can invest as much or as little as you choose.
It used to be the case that if you didn't have the money, certain stocks would be off-limits due to their high share prices. That's no longer the case today. A growing number of brokerages are offering the option to purchase fractional shares. With fractional shares, you buy a piece of a share of stock, as opposed to a whole share. Say you only have $200 to invest and you're interested in buying a stock that costs $1,000 per share. With fractional shares, you can still buy a piece of it.
2. Investing is risky
The stock market is notorious for crashing, but guess what — it's also known for recovering from downturns. In fact, with the right approach and asset allocation, investing doesn't have to be risky at all.
Generally speaking, you're best off buying quality stocks and holding them for years rather than attempting to time the market by buying low and selling high. Also, if you diversify your holdings within your portfolio, you'll reduce your risk while opening yourself up to added gains.
You do have to be careful about holding too much stock in a retirement plan, however. That's a perfectly safe and smart thing to do when you're younger, but if you've left the workforce and are taking regular withdrawals from that account, you'll want to make sure a substantial portion of your portfolio sits in bonds. In fact, you should start shifting toward a more conservative asset mix a few years before retirement kicks off.
3. Investing requires a lot of effort
It does, in fact, take time and effort to research individual stocks before adding them to your portfolio. Buying index funds, however, takes a lot less work. If you'd rather simplify things, that could be a smart way to go.
Index funds aim to match the performance of the market indexes they're tied to. You won't beat the market with index funds, but you will get to capitalize on broad market gains. You'll also get instant diversification in your portfolio, which will help limit your risk.
Get schooled on investing
Investing for the first time can be daunting — there's no question about it. Don't get scared off by the myths above. Instead, learn more about investing basics so you're comfortable putting your money to work.
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Mortal Kombat Trilogy is a fighting video game that adds new characters and levels to Mortal Kombat, a series of fighting games. The game implemented new finishing moves for some of the characters. A finishing move is a kind of move in fighting games that can deliver serious damage when it hits the opposing character. Typically, it can greatly reduce the opponent's health bar. Additionally, auto combos can be selected, making attacks easier to do. An "aggressor bar" is added in the game screen. If it fills up, the character becomes more powerful and faster. When the opponent is blocking, the aggresor bar takes twice as long to fill up. The "brutality" feature enables the player to produce long attack combinations that, when finished, make the opponent explode. The player has to press 11 buttons successively in order to succeed in performing the brutality move.
The game lets the players play thirty two characters from the Mortal Kombat series. These include new characters Baraka and Raiden. The characters also have new sprites. Their portraits in versus mode are also changed. Some of the characters, which include Kano and Jax, have alternate costumes. A new character - named Chameleon, is also added.


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By: Philippa
[Tweet "Best day trips from #Manila for kids, try out @pintoartmuseum! #ThePhilippines #FamilyTravel"]
A Day Trip to the Pinto Art Museum
The Pinto Art Museum is a great destination for families with children. Set in the hills overlooking Manila, Antipolo has fresh(er) air, great views and an altogether more laid back vibe than its bustling big sister Manila. The gallery itself is a work of art with lofty ceilings, oodles of natural light, indiscriminate pieces of modern art and delightful sculptures, all surrounded by lush tropical greenery.
Led by neurologist Dr. Joven Cuanang, this non-profit project is deeply rooted in the promotion of culture, ecology and the Filipino's artistic prowess. When Dr Joven launched the gallery, he poured his own personal wealth into the museum to perform a civic duty for the Filipino people. The museum's overall mission is to champion the conservation of nature, education of the Filipino people, and open doors for talented artists. Bravo!
The gallery is formed from six Spanish influenced whitewashed buildings, which pepper the beautifully kept 1.2 hectares of lush gardens. Sculptures seem to hide behind each corner, creating a wonderland for the children to meander through. Bringing the indoors outside makes this a dream for kids to explore the art work freely and revel in the magic of this enchanted place. There is also little café on site which serves delicious food and drinks once you have completed your tour.
Visitor Information
Entry Fees: Tickets are P180, children below the age of 3 are free.
Opening Hours: Open 9am – 6pm Tuesday to Sunday.
Getting There:
Private vehicle
- Take the route going to Marikina. Drive along Marcos Highway heading to Antipolo.
- Turn right at Felix Avenue. Turn left at Ortigas Avenue Extension.
- Then turn left at the rotunda leading to either Antipolo or Taytay Diversion Road.
- Follow the Ortigas Avenue Extension road until you reach the L. Sumulong Memorial Circle.
- Look for the sign on the right side of the road which points to Grand Heights and Pinto Art Museum.
Public transportation/LRT 2
- Take the LRT Line 2 and get off at the Santolan Station.
- Grab a jeepney or FX bound for Antipolo (Antipolo-Simbahan-Junction or Antipolo-Shopwise), Tanay (Tanay-Antipolo), or Teresa.
- Get off at Ynares Center.
- Ride a tricycle going to Grand Heights Subdivision.
Public transportation/FX or jeep from Ortigas area
- Take a jeep or FX going to Antipolo at a terminal at the Greenfield District Area or at the SM Megamall parking area.
- Get off at Ynares Center.
- Ride a tricycle going to Grand Heights Subdivision.
[Tweet "Best day trips from #Manila for kids, try out @pintoartmuseum! #ThePhilippines #FamilyTravel"]
You May Also Enjoy the Following Posts:
Best Day Trips from Manila: Hiking Mount Pinatubo
10 Things to do with Kids In & Around Manila
The weird and wonderful Art In Island, Manila, The Philippines
The Best Family Hotels in Manila, The Philippines
10 Things to do with Kids on the island of Boracay, The Philippines
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One of the great hidden diving gems in the world is the tiny region of Zanzibar. It's an island located in the Indian Ocean on the Swahili coast that boasts amazing weather, corresponding warm water temperatures, and is filled with exceptional diving sites. No matter what time of year, divers will find themselves falling in love with Zanzibar and the waters around it. Here are the best 5 diving sites in Zanzibar.
Big Wall
We start off with a spot that is only for experienced expert divers. The Big Wall drops 60 meters into the deep. If you dive by the wall you will come across many different types of sea life, such as eels, lobsters, green turtles, pelagic fish, and even sharks. On occasion, you may come across whale sharks and hammerheads as well.
Mnemba Island
To the northeast of Zanzibar is the private island resort of Mnemba Island. It is easy to get to from the main island because of its proximity, but you can only visit Mnemba Island if you are a guest of the resort. That doesn't mean that you can't dive there, though. There are over 600 species of fish, which is why the area has been dedicated as a marine reserve. This includes the whalefish, which is the biggest type of
fish in the world. Divers have reported also seeing dolphins and nesting green turtles during the appropriate season between February and September.
Pemba Island
Pemba Island is the second-largest island in the Zanzibar Archipelago. It is made up of lush greenery and exceptionally white beaches. To complement the vibrant green and white, the coral reefs in the water provide a wonderful array of vivid colors. This island has many prime sites to dive, all of which have their benefits. These sites include Manta Point, where you will catch the sea life that gives it its name, Fundu, and Mesali Island.
Leven Bank
Leven bank has powerful currents, but also big game fish. In this spot, you might find trevally, barracuda, and kingfish. Other attractions are the monstrous moray eels and reef fish. Tiny sea creatures called nudibranchs also call this bank home. They are noted for their often extraordinary colors and striking forms, and they have been given colorful nicknames to match, such as "clown", "marigold", "splendid", "dancer", and "dragon".
Kungui is a favorite place for snorkelers. It is part of the Kizimaki area, which is south of Zanzibar. It is a very popular spot to swim with dolphins as well. The great thing about this diving spot is that it has attractions for divers of any skill or experience level. In the shallows, there is a coral garden about 20 meters down. Past the garden, it drops off, and the experienced divers can take advantage of the deeper
water fish and sea life. You can find octopus, stingrays, and turtles down below.
If you're a diver, there's a good chance that you are always on the lookout for new spots to try, and new sights to experience. They can range from your local waters to exotic spots far away. If you are looking for something unique and stunning, then you can't do much better than visiting Zanzibar. Let our experts help plan the perfect diving trip, contact us today!


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Whether you consider it dark-fantasy or science-fiction there is no denying that the CW Show, Supernatural, has become a force to be reckoned with and is about to start its fourteenth season this week.
We're taking a look back over the past seasons, ranking our top five episodes, and now it's the turn of season five. Once more this felt like an almost impossible task to narrow it down to just five, especially as this was the culmination of Eric Kripke's story arc and had been intended as the finale of the show. In this season Sam (Jared Padalecki) and Dean Winchester (Jensen Ackles) face off against Lucifer (Mark Pellegrino), having been freed from his Cage by Sam, but they also find themselves targeted by both the forces of Heaven and Hell, as they are destined to be the true vessels of two Archangels, Lucifer and Michael respectively.
The End
Rather than start with the season premiere, we're skipping straight to the fourth episode. The two brothers have been apart since the defeat of War (Titus Welliver), in Good God, Y'all, one of the Four Horsemen. Sam is consumed with guilt about what he did that led to Lucifer's freedom and feels he can't continue hunting, and Dean agrees saying he can't focus because he's worried about what Sam might do. This episode starts with a panicked call from Sam to his older brother because he's encountered Lucifer and learnt he's to be his vessel. Sam wants to resume hunting with Dean so they can end the Devil together. Dean, however, believes that the two of them are better of separate, because of how they are meant to bring about the Apocalypse as Lucifer and Michael. Upset by the call, a tearful Dean hangs up on Sam and goes to bed.
When he wakes up he finds himself in a ruined version of the city he was in and the word Croatoan spray painted on walls. Dean has landed five years into the future where the world has gone to Hell, almost literally. Humanity has been ravaged by the Croatoan virus, first encountered by the Winchesters back in season two, the Angels have withdrawn back up to Heaven, leaving only one small group of humans trying to continue the fight. Dean comes face to face with the leader of this group and finds it's a future version of himself. From himself, Dean learns that he and Sam never regrouped and eventually somewhere along the way Sam died.
This future has alternative versions of both Castiel (Misha Collins) and Chuck (Rob Benedict) providing humour in a very bleak setting, but the washed out, drug addicted and now-human version of Castiel is also heartbreaking. Everyone in this world is rapidly losing hope and looks to their Dean to hold them all together. It all comes together when both Dean's go to finally deal with this world's Lucifer, only for the painful truth to be realised. Sam didn't die. He said yes. The exchange between Lucifer wearing Sam's body and the real Dean is the right mix of tension and defiance from Dean and the smugness and certainty of his victory from Lucifer.
Lucifer: Whatever choices you make, whatever details you alter, we will always end up – here. I win. So I win.
Dean: You're wrong.
Lucifer: See you in five years, Dean.
We learn that all of this has been a set up by Zachariah (Kurt Fuller), to show Dean why he must say yes to Michael, but all it's done is give Dean the drive to keep fighting. The episode ends with him and Sam reuniting, recognising that they need the strength that each other gives and how sticking together will keep them human.
Changing Channels
The eighth episode of the season is the only one real comedic one to feature in this set of five, and once again that humour is brought to us by The Trickster (Richard Speight Jr.). When the Winchesters realise that the case they're investigating is likely to be his doing, an abusive husband with anger issues has his head pulled off by The Incredible Hulk, Sam suggests they try to reason with the powerful entity and enlist his aid against the Apocalypse. Dean is less than happy with this plan, considering the last time they encountered him he killed Dean repeatedly, he'd rather gank The Trickster permanently.
Both the brothers' wishes are rendered null and void though when The Trickster traps them in a TV World and tells them to play their roles if they ever wish to escape. A cheesy hospital drama, an insane Japanese game show, a sitcom, a procedural cop show and Knightrider are all given The Trickster twist for Sam and Dean to endure. The Herpexia commercial, a cream to help sufferers with genital herpes, is especially hysterical.
With no end in sight to this trap, and even Castiel is prevented from rescuing them, Dean eventually works out that there is more than meets the eye to The Trickster and they are able to spring a trap. It is revealed that The Trickster is none other than the Archangel Gabriel who went AWOL around the time that Lucifer fell out with God and Michael the first time around. He was sick of seeing his family fighting back then and things haven't changed. He wants Sam and Dean to just get it over with so that his family's feud can finally be over. The Winchesters don't agree and intend to prove to him that there is another way to end this and they're going to find it.
Abandon All Hope
This midseason finale opens with the introduction of a crossroads demon closing a deal with a corrupt banker, who is incredibly uncomfortable with the idea of having to kiss the male demon to finalise things. This demon isn't any old crossroads demon but the one in charge of all of them, Crowley (Mark Sheppard) and the one rumoured to know the location of the missing Colt gun. The brothers are able to break into the house and confront Crowley who is, surprisingly cooperative. He wants the boys to kill Lucifer because he firmly believes that if Lucifer wins demons will be next on his hit list after he's wiped out humanity. He not only gives the Colt to the Winchesters but he also tells them where he knows Lucifer will be.
A plan is formed, and with Bobby (Jim Beaver) out of action in a wheelchair, the help comes from Ellen (Samantha Ferris) and Jo Harvelle (Alona Tal). The Harvelles have featured in episodes since the second season and it's never been a secret that Jo harboured feelings for Dean. Dean attempts to make good on those feelings with a last-night-on-earth speech but Jo turns him down. The Winchesters, the Harvelles and Castiel head to Carthage, Missouri, where things go from bad to worse.
Castiel is incapacitated by Lucifer and the demon Meg (Rachel Miner), and the latter then sets hellhounds on the others. Jo is seriously injured after pushing Dean out of the way of an attack. The four Hunters end up trapped in a shop with no clear way out until Jo, who already knows she is dying, offers to sacrifice herself and blow up the shop with herself and the hounds inside it. Unprepared to let her daughter face this on her own, Ellen chooses to stay with Jo and we are left to witness the most painful of goodbyes to characters, so far, since John's death in season two.
Forced to go on alone, and visibly upset by the loss of the Harvelles, the brothers push on and finally encounter Lucifer himself, who has already killed the entirety of the town so that he can bring forth Death, another of the Horsemen. Dean takes his chance and shoots the Devil point blank in the head with the Colt, but of course, things are not that easy. It turns out there are five beings in all of Creation that can't be killed by the Colt, and Lucifer is one of them. The brothers are saved by Castiel while Lucifer is distracted performing his ritual, and the group return to Bobby's to lick their wounds and mourn their fallen friends. The episode ends on a very stark depressing note as Bobby burns the photograph they had all taken earlier, the closest they can get to giving the Harvelles a proper hunter burial, and we are left wondering just how the rest of this season is going to pan out for the Winchesters.
Dark Side of the Moon
The sixteenth episode starts with the unexpected and we see Sam being killed by two Hunters who blame him for the starting the Apocalypse. Realising that if they leave Dean alive he'll be hunting them down forever, the Hunters kill him as well.
When Dean 'wakes up', he finds himself reliving the Fourth of July, 1996 with a thirteen-year-old Sam (Colin Ford), during which the two of them set off fireworks, in spite of what their Dad would allow. Dean is convinced this is a dream until he has a flashback to the two of them being shot and he 'wakes' back in the Impala again. Castiel speaks to him through the radio and confirms that he and Sam are dead, but that Dean needs to follow the Axis Mundi to find his brother. The Axis Mundi is a path that leads through heaven to The Garden, where the angel Joshua (Roger Aaron Brown) resides. It's said that Joshua talks to God, and Castiel believes that if Sam and Dean can reach The Garden they can get word to God about how Heaven isn't fighting against, but actively encouraging the Apocalypse.
This episode gives us a glimpse of how Heaven works within the Supernatural setting, how you can relive your happiest memories and stay within them as long as you would like. This raises some questions for Dean though. His "memories" are all centred around his happiness with his family, most frequently involving Sam and his Mum, but Sam's are shown to be when he wasn't with his family at all: a Thanksgiving spent at a girl's house with her family, a time spent in Flagstaff with a dog, living off of junk food when he ran away from his Dad and brother and lastly the fateful night when he told his Father he was going to college and John told him to never come back. Dean is upset telling Sam he thought that they were family, Sam maintains that they are, but Dean isn't convinced due to his moral and confidence taking a beating the closer we get to the end of this season.
Zachariah, on learning that Sam and Dean have died, starts hunting them throughout Heaven, they're on his turf now and it's the perfect place to force Dean to say yes to Michael. They're given a brief reprieve from this when Ash (Chad Lindberg) rescues them and brings them back to a recreation of Harvelle's Roadhouse. Ash reveals to them that they've both been in Heaven numerous times but every time they are brought back to life they lose their memories of being there. Ash also tells them that they're a rarity in that they share the same Heaven as soul-mates would do.
Eventually, they are dealt the final blow by Joshua himself when the Angel saves them again from Zachariah. Joshua informs them that although God is currently in an unknown location on Earth, He is well aware of that is happening with the Apocalypse but He doesn't feel it is His problem anymore. He's done. It hits the both of them hard, especially Dean whom Joshua reveals was putting all his last hopes on God solving all of this. Dean has lost faith in himself, in Sam and now in God.
The brothers are returned to Earth where they explain to Castiel, who is equally devastated by his Father's abandonment, and we witness Dean throwing away the amulet Sam gave to him all those Christmases ago. It was revealed that the amulet would glow in the presence of God, but Dean no longer feels the family connection to it and believes it useless, so it is cast aside. A very bleak end to a very bleak but powerful episode.
Swan Song
As season finales go Swan Song deserves an article devoted solely to it, written by Eric Kripke it is the end of the journey that he set Supernatural on at the start of season one. Beautifully framed by Chuck Shurley's (Rob Benedict) narration, starting with a history of the Impala and how it goes on to become the most important object in the whole universe, it still ranks as one of, if not the, best season finales.
Left with no other options Dean consents to Sam's plan of how to deal with Lucifer. Armed with the four rings that belonged to the Four Horsemen the brothers have a way to open Lucifer's Cage and Sam thinks he can get the Devil back into it, but it'll be a one way trip for the youngest Winchester. Sam believes that once he has agreed to allow Lucifer to possess him, he'll be able to regain control of his body and jump into the Cage himself. Dean hates the plan, even more so when Sam insists that he can never look for ways to break him out in case it frees Lucifer again, but he has to have faith in his brother's strength. Sam insists that Dean promise once this is done that he goes to see Lisa (Cindy Sampson) again and try to live his longed-for 'apple pie life'.
Things do not go to plan though when Sam apparently is not strong enough to overcome Lucifer's possession. After taking control of Sam's body, Lucifer promptly disappears leaving Dean, Cas, and Bobby with the only option of riding out the Apocalypse and seeing where things land. Dean cannot do that though and refuses to let Sam face this alone. They go to see Chuck who reveals that he does know the location where the Apocalypse is due to start, Stull Cemetary, a location just outside the boys' hometown of Lawrence, Kansas. Dean heads there, seemingly alone, driving up to where Lucifer and Michael (Jake Abel) are facing off, Def Leppard's Rock of Ages belting from the Impala's stereo as he does so. Supernatural has always handled important character entrances in an epic way.
After Castiel temporarily despatches Michael with a Molotov of holy fire, using the best distraction tactics of yelling ' Hey, Assbutt!', Lucifer explodes the angel, killing him instantly and then proceeds to snap Bobby's neck, leaving Dean alone with him. Dean tries to breakthrough to Sam, telling him to find the strength to overcome Lucifer, but Lucifer responds by beating Dean bloody until he is barely conscious. With everyone else dead it looks like it's going to be the same end for Dean, but then a flash of light glinting off of the Impala, distracting Lucifer, saves the day. We see flashes of Sam's memories, army men wedged in the ashtray, legos put in the vents, the two boys carving their initials in the Impala ceiling, countless more follow spanning across the five seasons until Lucifer unclenches his fist and Sam is revealed to now be in control.
Sam is able to reopen the portal to the Cage, reassuring Dean that it's going to be okay, and prepares to jump. As he starts to fall an angry Michael reappears but it is too late to stop Sam and the other Archangel falls into the Cage as well, trapping the three of them forever.
Castiel returns, believing that God has resurrected him for the second time, and he brings Bobby back to life, but everything is still too much for Dean, the loss of his brother far too painful to endure. He is a broken man, but he remembers his final promise to Sam.
Chuck, who has been writing a novel throughout the episode, is sat at his desk no longer dressed in his usual drab clothing but in a pristine white shirt. He brings his novel to a close, as we see Dean arriving on Lisa's doorstep and being welcomed inside. Chuck types 'The End', and takes a drink as his voiceover states:
No doubt – endings are hard. But then again… nothing ever really ends, does it?
The next we see is the Prophet smiling and then vanishing into thin air with a golden glowing effect, hinting perhaps that there was a lot more to the man than Sam and Dean could have ever realised.
This is where the episode would no doubt have ended had the news of a renewal for a sixth season not alreay been announced. Instead, the last shot of Swan Song shows that Dean, drinking whiskey inside Lisa's home, is being watched by someone standing outside, the streetlamp above flickering. It is Sam, but the reasons behind why he is there, and if he even really is Sam are left often as the screen turns to black.
And that's our list, and we're aware that a vast number of equally outstanding episodes didn't make the final cut. So do you agree with the episodes presented here, or would you have picked a different five? Let us know in the comments.


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Blue Planet Prize award to Lovejoy at Rio+20
Jun 22, 2012, 05:17 ET
Counterpart International congratulates its Board member
ARLINGTON, Va., June 22, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Blue Planet Prize, one of the most prestigious awards for work in the environment, has been given to ecologist and Counterpart International Board member Dr. Thomas Lovejoy. (www.Counterpart.org)
Dr. Lovejoy received the award at the UN Conference on Sustainable Development (Rio+20) in Rio de Janeiro for his pioneering work in biodiversity conservation, especially in his research on how human-caused habitat fragmentation causes biodiversity loss.
"I am most honored by the recognition that this prize gives to biodiversity," Dr. Lovejoy said in Rio on June 17. "This is a living planet that nourishes us. It is extraordinarily beautiful and wondrous, and as far as we know without any parallel in the universe."
Dr. Lovejoy, who is the Heinz Center Biodiversity Chair and a fellow at National Geographic, joined Counterpart International's Board of Directors in 2011. (www.Counterpart.org)
Counterpart President & CEO Joan Parker congratulated Dr. Lovejoy on the Blue Planet Prize.
"Tom is a leader in raising awareness of the today's most pressing environmental issues and is active in seeking solutions," Parker says.
Dr. Lovejoy's role on the global nonprofit's Board of Directors has helped to strengthen the organization's technical knowledge in the area of biodiversity and environmental change, which will have a direct impact on the areas where Counterpart is working, Parker says.
The Blue Planet Prize is given annually by Japan's Asahi Glass Foundation to recognize leaders who make a difference in safeguarding biodiversity. This year marks the prize's 20th anniversary.
Dr. Lovejoy has worked in preserving the Amazon rain forest since 1965 and is one of the most renowned tropical biologists. Dr. Lovejoy, who earned a Ph.D. from Yale University, has served on advisory councils in the administrations of Presidents Reagan, George H.W. Bush and Clinton. In 2009 he was appointed Conservation Fellow by the National Geographic Society.
Past Blue Planet Prize laureates include Lester Brown, James Lovelock, David Brower, Paul Ehrlich, Gustave Speth and Conservation International.
"What an extraordinary humbling event to be asked to join such distinguished colleagues," Lovejoy told the audience in Rio. "It's a very special group indeed."
About Counterpart International
Counterpart International is a global development organization that works in partnership to empower people, communities and institutions to drive and sustain their own development. It is currently working in 22 countries.
For nearly 50 years, Counterpart has been working in partnership with communities in need to address complex problems related to economic development, nutrition and health, humanitarian assistance and strengthening civil society.
Learn more at www.Counterpart.org.
Contact: Michael Zamba
[email protected]
SOURCE Counterpart International


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Are you interested to become a member of our Association? You can read the statutes that are available for download at the end of the registration form. The membership is valid from 1. January until 31. December, this is the association year.
The annual fee is 100.- CHF.
What are your benefits in getting a member? You can read our goals in the statutes that are one point, than you get your personal account on the website with contents only for member and a forum for networking together with other member. Additional you will have a reduction for the annual Congress fee as a member.
To get a strong association we need you as a member! Thank you for your interest in our association SPCRC!
*Have you already read our statutes?
Download Statutes: DE / FR / IT


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BWCA 2016 Day Five
August 31, 2016
|917 AM bacon to fry.
|Day five we were down to 4/7 of our original crew; brother, nephew and cousin had left camp. So we reconfigured the canoes for the morning: adult in each stern, kid in each bow; four dudes and two canoes left.
|1235 PM this fish was taped at 19.5 inches.
|Mark on paddle, tape back at camp said solid 36 inches. The "conversion charts" say that equates to 13.3 lbs. That feels right to me just based on ball parking it while holding and examining; also thinking that it was very averagely built.
|That mark on paddle is 18 inches. Closing the mouth and pinching tail put it right around 18 in this case.
|What I call a deadhead bay. Money.
|514 PM. Note previous time of 504 PM. The fish struggling here was caught by casting a popper so it nearly touched the wood of this deadhead. One good pop and let it sit. All that's needed.
|516 PM two minutes later fish landed. Kind of a bruiser looking fish; kind of a badass.
|This one pushed past the 18 mark (hidden from view); the next mark is the 20. Number of fish in that range.
|604 PM. Smaller fish but great coloration.
|Finally got a from-afar look at the fully-manned MN III.
|Summary shot of the deal one is looking to close.
|713 PM LMB. This fish just crushed the popper. See the glass pane there; it was quite a take.
|Lip touching between the 18 and 20 marks.
|I missed being sternsman for the boys. But it was fun to light into some fish. Poppers for big bass on calm water. In the middle of a pretty vast wilderness.


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Hello Group, a white label technology provider, operating across several industries, including trading and blockchain technology, has announced a new project called Hello Diamonds. The goal of the company is to provide a platform for the seamless investing in precious minerals, while simultaneously offering the world's first fully diamond-backed cryptocurrency. Hello Diamonds' innovative approach convinced 2010 Economics Nobel Prize winner Sir Christopher Pissarides to join the board of directors.
The proprietary software of Hello Diamonds connects 7,000 diamond manufacturers around the globe with a list of more than 800,000 stones and taps into the $80 billion diamond market. The company uses blockchain technology to drastically reduce costs, increase transparency and simplify the process of acquiring and trading diamonds. In order to achieve a high security standard when storing the valuable commodity, Hello Diamonds partnered with the world's largest diamond trading platform, International Diamond Exchange (IDEX). The highly experienced jewellery retailer will take care of all the diamond buying, logistic and vault aspects, ensuring maximum security for Hello Diamonds customers.
Part of the ecosystem is the infrastructure solution DiamDrop, which will be able to push the price of diamonds 25 percent below the BlueNile standard price. With DiamDrop, Hello Diamonds is building a direct pipeline from the manufacturer to the buyer, without intermediaries and commissions. In order to tackle illegal commerce with blood diamonds, the company only deals with loose and certified diamonds in respect to the Kimberley norm.
Heart of the project is the Ethereum based cryptocurrency DiamCoin, which is the first token to be 100 percent backed by physical diamonds. The digital currency will be used on the official DiamCoin exchange, but can also be adopted by any other project that requires a non-volatile cryptocurrency.
Sir Christopher Pissarides commented:
I was immediately intrigued by the blockchain technology and Hello Diamonds' vision, which for me is the only viable solution in the world of blockchain," he said. "While blockchain technology has the potential to disrupt the current financial system, it is still mainly used for speculation. If we can eliminate the volatility and bring in stability, we now have the financial tool necessary to replace the archaic payment systems in place today.
During the past decades, diamonds have proven to be a reliable and stable investment, compounding more than 30 percent of growth in the preceding ten years. Meanwhile, the share of internet activity is climbing as well, with one in six jewellery purchases being made online in the US last year.
With continuously growing demand for both diamonds and a non-volatile cryptocurrency, we believe that now is the perfect time to merge blockchain technology with the diamond world," said Jeremy Dahan, CEO of Hello Group.


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I've moved and I have a new address, both physically and on the internet.
From August 2018, you can find me at:
This page will remain as is, even beyond the point that I recreate it on the new site, but I will no longer be updating it. In the meantime, the new site is a labour of love where I'm working hard to optimize the images and upload all of my historical content as well as the new postcards I receive. It's a mess at the moment, but please join me there and let me know what you think 🙂


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How to make a purchase
The "Thracian Lands Crafts" is not an e-commerce site, so we kindly ask you to email, phone or write to us with the details of the craftworks you are interested in. We will confirm that the goods are still available and make arrangements for payment and collection, or delivery.
We will then email an invoice to you, with details of availability, confirming prices, and post and packaging costs. You can then use a credit card either by email, or telephone, or make a payment via bank transfer. We do not accept checks.
You may collect your purchase or we can arrange delivery to you. No goods will be released until payment in full has been received.
If you chose to have the goods delivered, we will include a delivery quote on your invoice. This includes packing, insurance in transit and delivery costs. All items are delivered by a reputable international express courier company. All packaging is to a high professional standard.
The goods will be dispatched upon completion of payment. We will inform you immediately of any delays, and advise you of the delivery day.
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If the provided above conditions have been met, we will arrange for a full refund of the costs of the product to you. You will not be refunded the delivery costs and you must pay for shipping the product back to us and insurance of the work during transit to us. Refund will not be made until the product has been returned undamaged to us.
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Color. Although we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of images on our website we cannot guarantee that the colors and appearance of craftwork will be identical to the original. Dimensions given are shown under "details". Availability of the craftworks displayed on our site is not guaranteed. VAT and all required taxes where applicable are included in all prices. Overseas purchasers are responsible for any local customs, duties and taxes required. Copyrights to the image remain to "Thracian Lands Crafts". The purchase of craftworks from "Thracian Lands Crafts" does not confer the right or license to use the image for commercial or any other purposes. Risk in the goods passes on collection or on delivery of the goods to the address stated in your order. Title to the goods will pass to you only when full payment has been made for them.
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In Search of Ira Plato [sic]
A Short, Silly, Three-Act Play (more or less)
Dramatis Personae
Major "Hump" Hessel (NSA officer in charge of nationwide manhunt)
Lieutenant Robert "Rigamarole" Davies (Major Hessel's aide)
Private Ernest "Earnest" Wilde (earnest young soldier)
Detective Molly Molly (A police detective)
Officer Dan O'Dannon (a man of Irish ancestry)
Barry (a barrista)
Ira (radio host)
Scene: Modern military-style office. No windows. Possibly located deep underground. Maps of the United States and other countries cover the walls. There are many colored pins sticking in the map. Some of them have pieces of colored string connecting them.
In the middle of the room is a long wooden conference table strewn with paper, maps, books, and a large 60s-era transistor radio. There is also a large, old-fashioned dial phone on the table. It's olive-green. The chairs are in disarray. In the corner is an old, stained coffee pot and several dirty mugs. There is a large standing ashtray off to one side. Unused.
Leaning over the desk is LIEUTENANT ROBERT "RIGAMAROLE" DAVIES. His uniform is a little sloppy and he looks like he has not slept in days. Standing near the door at half-attention is PRIVATE ERNEST "EARNEST" WILDE. She looks like she has not slept much either, but is in better shape and condition than the lieutenant.
(A noise from the door) Wilde stiffens to full attention.
WILDE: Major arriving, sir!
Davies stands to attention, but looks like he might fall over in the process. Enter through door MAJOR "HUMP" HESSELL. He looks a little rumpled, but not nearly as bad as the lieutenant. He chews on an unlit cigar as he stalks in.
HESSELL: At ease! (growling) Report!
Davies un-at-eases and leans heavily against the table, waving one hand tiredly.
DAVIES: We… we have nothing, Major. Every source we've checked out has not confirmd any of the Ira Plato leads. It's like the man simply doesn't exist in the real world. It's like… like…
(trails off)
HESSELL: Well, spit it out, man! Like what?
DAVIES: Like he only exists as a voice on the radio.
He exists, all right.
HESSELL: Harumph! He exists, all right… he exists. And when we find him, he has a lot to answer for.
Davies picks up a map and shows it to the general.
DAVIES: Look, these are all of the public radio stations in the country. All of them broadcast Ira Plato on Friday afternoons, but none of them acknowledge anyone of that name.
HESSELL: Then they are lying.
Davies shakes his head.
DAVIES: No, sir. At least not that we can determine. We've had local police in every city and town where there is a public radio station serve up warrants. After an exhaustive search, they've not turned up any records or confirmed sightings of an Ira Plato anywhere.
HESSELL: But he's right there… on the air!
DAVIES: Yes, sir. Last Friday afternoon several detectives confronted station managers while Plato was on the air and, when questioned, all of the station managers just started laughing.
HESSELL: Treason!
DAVIES: Possibly.
(Phone rings.) Davies and Hessell ignore the ringing until finally Private Wilde leaves her post to answer the phone.
WILDE: Situation room. (pause) Yes. (Pause) I see. Please give me the details…
Wilde grabs some paper and begins writing notes as Hessell and Davies continue talking.
HESSELL: Every week we get calls of Plato transmitting over the airwaves. Public radio is obviously in on it–
DAVIES (interupting): –but their records–
HESSELL: Damn their lies and collusion. This would never have happened in Reagan's America!
Wilde hangs up phone.
WILDE: Sir! A report has just come in that Ira Plato is on this week's episode of THE BIG BANG THEORY
HESSELL: What the hell is Plato thinking? Big bang theory? Is he broadcasting nuclear secrets to the Russkies?
DAVIES: Oh, no, sire…
DAVIES: Yes, sir. Sorry, sir. That is, The Big Bang Theory is a comedy show… a situational comedy show, or "sitcom" as it is known. Plato must be doing a guest appearance.
Hessell snaps his fingers.
HESSELL: We got him! When is it on?
Wilde consults her notes.
WILDE: Sir, it is being broadcast now.
HESSELL: Get a television in here! Now!
Wilde leaves. Hessell starts pacing. Davies begins to pace as well.
HESSELL: This is the break we've been looking for. We study everything in the background. We pinpoint his location through subtle clues. Get information on the actors of this… this sitcom, and find out where they are.
Davies continues to pace.
HESSELL: (snaps) NOW!
Davies snaps out of his reverie and paces right out the door. Hessell pushes a pile of papers off a chair and sits down. Takes the cigar out of his mouth and fiddles with it.
HESSELL: Yep. We got him now. That bastard, Plato. We got him now!
Scene: Munden's Bar. A typical cop watering hole. It's a slow night. No bartender in sight. DETECTIVE MOLLY MOLLY is sitting at the bar quietly nursing a scotch. A few steps down is OFFICER DAN O'DANNON. He nurses a beer.
Above the bar is a TV set showing the episode of The Big Bang Theory titled "The Discovery Dissipation". It's the closing scene where Sheldon and Leonard are in the radio booth with Ira.
O'DANNON: (looking up at TV) Say, Molly… wasn't there a BOLO in the station about someone named Ira Plato?
MOLLY: (taking a sip of her drink) Yeah. The military or NSA or somesuch is looking for him. They seem to be chasing a ghost voice on the radio. Plato is probably an alias. Why?
O'Dannon gestures at the TV.
O'DANNON: The guy on the TV–not the stars–the other guy–I think someone just called him Ira Plato.
MOLLY: You sure?
O'DANNON: Wait, here come the credits. Let's see..
Silently, they watch the credits roll by. Then it finishes.
MOLLY: Huh.
O'DANNON: Yeah. How about that?
MOLLY: I should probably call it in.
O'DANNON: Better you than me.
Detective Molly sighs, taking out her cell phone.
MOLLY: Yeah, yeah. This is why I get paid the big bucks. Good catch though, O'Dannon.
O'DANNON: Next round is on you, what with your big bucks and all.
Scene: Situation room. Wilde, Davis, and Hessell are all trying to get a television to work… to no avail. All they get is static.
HESSELL: Damn cutbacks!
(The phone rings) Wilde goes and picks it up. Starts writing more notes. Hangs up.
WILDE: Sir…
DAVIES: (fussing with TV knobs) not now, private.
Hessell smacks the top of the TV several times.
WILDE: Sir, I have–
HESSELL: Dammit, private, we may already be too late. Don't–
Wilde gives up. Begins sorting through papers on the desk. As Davies and Hessell beat up the TV, she eventually finds a piece of paper. We can see her sounding out the words "Plato" and "Flatow".
Both officers look at her and respond simultaneously.
DAVIES and HESSELL: What!
Wilde circles a name on the sheet of paper.
WILDE: We've… we've been looking for the wrong person… look…
She holds the paper out to the officers who lean in for a look.
fade to black
Scene: A Manhattan Starbucks.* A barrista working behind the counter and a lone man sitting near the milks and sugars.
BARRY: Latte, no foam, for Ira Plato!
Man approaches counter.
IRA: It's pronounced Flatow, not Plato.
BARRY: Ooops. Sorry about that, sir.
Ira smiles and takes his latte.
IRA: No problem. Happens all the time.
Sips his latte, then looks up.
IRA: Say, do you hear sirens?
*Yes, this is the same Starbucks in which Amy Sedaris saved the world. Details here
Okay, two things to address:
First, the above story is based on the embarrassing fact that, for the longest time, I always thought his name was Ira Plato… not Flatow. I mean, c'mon. On the radio, it's always sounded like Plato to me. And it made sense. An NPR science nerd? Plato made much more sense than Flatow. What kind of name is Flatow, anyway? Sounds like something someone at Ellis Island came up with while dealing with a hangover. I listened to Science Friday for years and never got 'Flatow'. I don't think I'm alone. It took seeing the credits on The Big Bang Theory to set me straight. Yeesh. Hence this silly little play.
Second, yes… I've fallen behind in my Jay Lake challenge. I've no real excuse other than to say that I tend to work best at a set schedule, and summer has a tendency to play havoc with my set schedule. I also freely admit that I had a bit of writer's block for a bit as well. I will try to catch up on the missing weeks, but I'll also not try to beat myself up o'ermuch and will just keep moving forward.
So… forward it is, then.


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For Parents
Please use this page to find information you may need answers to. If you have any additional questions or concerns please do not hesitate to call (624-6373).
Please visit the McDonough School Parent Teacher Group web page to learn more about activities and events at our school. Please contact our office if you are looking for opportunities to volunteer in our school.
Click here for the: Fresh Fruit & Vegetable Program


text:
Dr. Lorrie Green, DMD
Your Dentist in Hampton Cove, AL
Dr. Green has been a dedicated clinician who has had her heart in dentistry for over 25 years. She enjoys providing caring, comprehensive treatment in a professional friendly environment. She began her career as a dental assistant and then earned a Dental Hygiene Degree and a Bachelors degree in Health Care Administration while traveling the world as a military spouse. Her and her husband Tom have been married for 33 years and have two children, Jarred and Morgan.
After her husband's retirement from the US ARMY, she had the opportunity to further her education and earn her Doctorate of Dental Medicine at the University of Florida. Dr. Green was inducted into the Dental Honor Society of OKU upon graduation from UF; she earned the Excellence in Prosthodontics Award, The Student Leadership Award, and The Golden Scaler Award and was a student tutor to other dental students in their clinical and didactic studies.
She is a member of the American Dental Association, Academy of General Dentistry, International Academy of Facial Aesthetics and the Alabama Dental Association. She has attended multiple continuing education classes and enjoys all aspects of dentistry to include cosmetic and implant dentistry.
She and her husband reside in Hampton Cove and enjoy being Alabama residents while their daughter obtains her undergraduate degree at Florida State University and her son resides in Hawaii as a Military Intelligence officer in the US Army with a Mechanical Engineering degree.


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Potential Sale of SaskTel "Short-Sighted" Says Prof
The idea of selling SaskTel, the sole major telco in Western Canada, has the potential of poisoning the relationship between Premier Brad Wall and voters, according to University of Saskatchewan professor Charles Smith. Especially given that SaskTel is doing well and is affordable.
"It provides a level of stability in the telecom industry, especially for rural areas, which is why I think it's going to be difficult for him to move forward," says Smith.
"Maybe you could argue that there will be more competition within the cities, you know, Saskatoon, Regina, and Moose Jaw or (Prince Albert), but there's a much more difficult argument to make in the rural areas."
Smith has an idea why the government is playing with the idea of selling SaskTel: the $1.2 billion deficit it wants to cover.
"For me, it's odd and I think it's short-sighted and it would be surprising if they move forward in any aggressive way at this point."
While there is no offer for SaskTel right now, Wall said the government will hold a referendum before selling the telco. But the problem seems to be that the legal framework for referendums hasn't been updated in 25 years, according to Saskatchewan's chief electoral officer, Michael Boda.
There are several options, however. The first: The government will take a $21 million bill for holding a referendum because it would essentially mirror what takes place for a general vote. The second—and Boda's recommended option—would be a mail-in vote, but since there is no legal framework for that, it would need to be created. The third option would be an electronic or phone vote, but, again, the legal framework is missing.
And to organize elections, the government needs a minimum of 164 days to get ready, and the $4 million cost needs to be considered as well.
As a result, Smith says the referendum is unlikely, and the government would be more apt to sell shares in SaskTel.


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Coffee Cayenne Burgers
These burgers are terrific. The secret's in the special meat rub. From Cheryl Hill-Burrier's article Wanna Fork with that Coffee?
- 1 pound ground chuck
- 4 teaspoons Coffee Cayenne Meat Rub
- 4 slices bacon
- 4 slices Cheddar or Swiss cheese
- 4 hamburger buns
- 4 onion slices
- 4 tomato slices
- Mayonnaise
- Form the ground chuck into four meat patties of equal size. Place 1 teaspoon rub mixture on the topside of each meat patty and refrigerate for one hour before grilling.
- Cook bacon until crisp and break each slice in half. Heat grill to medium-high heat. Place burgers, rub side down, on the grill rack and cook for about 4 minutes. Flip the burgers and continue cooking for another 4 minutes, placing the cheese on top during the last minute. Remove from the grill and place on the bottom halves of the buns.
- Now, put two halves of bacon on each burger and top with onion and tomatoes. Spread mayonnaise on the top bun and place on the burger.
- Makes 4 burgers.


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Here, this tale, of a marvellous man…
a man who died far too young.
A teacher who campaigned. An activist who acted.
A husband who wooed with poetry, passionate & true.
A father who nurtured & adored.
An untimely patient who succumbed, to leukaemia, whilst still in his prime.
An Oxfam volunteer. A meditating, real ale drinking hiker.
A man of Manchester. A kind & gentle man.
A man of his time, of Orwell (George) and Laurie Lee,
of the 60's, of the political revolution, of intellectual nobility.
From humble origins, to a humble end, with so much to show for the years in between.
This man could have been your patient. But he wasn't.
He wasn't ever just a patient. He was, and always will be, my Dad.


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You know you're getting older when you're more excited about buying homewares than clothes. When I was a kid I never understood my parents' fascination with going to Ikea or TJmaxx, but now I totally get it. I could spend hours getting lost in throw pillows and bed linens instead of spending a Saturday night out taking shots. Sad? Maybe. Do I care? No.
I'm not sure if it's some nesting gene that kicks in when you hit a certain age or if I just have a newfound appreciation for a cozy environment and beautiful aesthetics. I've always felt heavily influenced by my surroundings, and this seems to become more potent the older I get. Don't get me wrong, I love clothes and a fun night out or an adventure now and again, but I just find it so damn fun to decorate your own space. It makes me feel more like an adult than almost anything else. So if you're like me (or know some nerd who is), here are some gift ideas for the decor obsessed. Just click the items above to shop directly (or the links below). Enjoy!
Wick Trimmer & Snuffer Set
Pottery Dinnerware Set
Brass Leg Dining Table
Decorative Geode Cluster
Overdyed Vintage Rug
Green Stone Coasters
Long Stemmed Wine Glasses
Framed Watercolor Print
Faux Fur Throw Blanket
Porcelain Face Vessel
Shell Jewelry Tray
Aesop Hand Soap


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Christina Hendricks will be featured in the May issue of Esquire Magazine.
" The radiant red-haired bombshell from the TV show, "Mad Men", with the insanely massive knockers is the May 2010 cover girl for Esquire Magazine. In the issue, the magazine took a survey comprised of over 10,000 women and asked them various questions from Politics to sexuality. For the choice of "Best-Looking Woman In America", over 30% of the vote went to Christina Hendricks (hence the cover)! The other 17% of the "Best-Looking Woman" votes went to Adriana Lima (who is NOT American, mind you) and 14% went to Megan Fox.
In the article, Christina gives out her own personal notes on how to treat a woman. ["No man should be on Facebook" is one of her pieces of advice.]"
Gallery Link
Magazines & Scans > 2010 – May: Esquire


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Learning Outside The Classroom
Danebank has developed extensive learning opportunities that take place outside the general classroom.
They are an integral part of planned teaching and learning programmes.
Danebank's extensive excursion programme is integral to effective learning. Excursions in all year groups ensure that students are challenged in hands-on situations which supplement classroom learning. These include excursions to theatres, work experience, field trips, exhibitions and many more.
Visiting speakers and other presenters offer more activities that broaden students' learning experiences and add to the breadth of learning inside the classroom.
Inside Australia
Students have the opportunity to travel inside Australia as part of their study programmes and during holiday periods. Recent travel destinations have included Ballarat and Canberra.
Camping Programmes
Danebank's camping programme begins in Year 3 and increases in level of difficulty as students move through to their school years. Students are challenged personally and in groups through outdoor learning situations that stretch them beyond their normal comfort zones. Camps are also great bonding opportunities for students.


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Price Includes VAT
Shemagh Sindi is distinguished by its unique design of Arabic inscriptions.
Made of high quality materials and 100% natural cotton.
Comfortable and soft to wear, where a luxurious sense of elegance is extinguished.
color ( white x red )
Ready Sizes Chart
Edit your own sizes
Download HD
CM Chart is here
Register Now !


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Day 31, August 22, 2016 @6:09
These late days in August, I'm grateful that the sun still rises early @6:30am. I'm already feeling the pull of autumn. I'm feeling the nesting instinct. It's so lovely to lay in bed, relishing the laziness, the warmth and the not having to get up if I-don't-want-to. Attitude and the freedom to have it is glorious. Bring it on – all that and more.
Can you tell that I've been into the beer? It's that beer blush and wide-eyed stare. Pardon me if I'm not too coherent. It does not take much. Just one will do it. But at least I'm here. Thank goodness for spell check. Difficult as it is sometimes, I still get up, dress up. make up and show up. Yes, I'm still putting on my earrings and practicing selfies once in awhile.
Wish I have something more profound to say. I don't though. This is it, not stressing, not fussing, doing small, small. A little in the house, a little in the garden and a few words here. Maybe I will have/do more tomorrow. Till then.


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11 Great Reasons To Adopt a Pet From a Shelter
I am just a pet owner and animal lover who wants to save animals' lives.
Considering Adoption?
If you are interested in getting a pet, there are some things you should consider first. Do you want a dog or a cat? How about a rabbit?
Once you decide this, you will need to find where to buy or where to adopt the pet from. When you buy a pet, whether it is from a pet store or a breeder, it can cost more than adopting from a shelter.
Considering adoption is an important part of welcoming a pet into your life. Finding a pet that will suit your lifestyle can be easier when adopting from a shelter. If you want an older pet, this will be a great place to start, but there are many puppies at the shelter to choose from as well.
11 Reasons to Adopt a Pet From a Shelter
1. To Save a Pet's Life
When you adopt from a shelter, it frees up space for more animals, saving the life of your new best friend and other animals. Whether you adopt a dog or a cat, it still helps.
2. To Find Your Best Friend
Pets can be your best friend. They give you unconditional love and companionship. If you get a dog, they can also help keep you active, as they need frequent walks.
3. Shelter Pets Are Usually House-Trained
Many animals at the shelter are pets that the owner could no longer care for. The owners may have been sick, or they surrendered their pets for other reasons. But this means that the animal may already be house trained and will usually already know simple commands.
4. It Will Cost Less
Buying a dog or a cat or any pet can be costly.
Many shelter animals are spayed and neutered before adoption as well as being microchipped and up to date on all shots. This saves you a lot of money. A pet from a shelter may be anywhere from $50 to around $150, depending on the above procedures. Buying from a pet store or breeder can cost much more.
7 More Reasons to Adopt:
- Pets are great listeners.
- They are great cuddlers; pet cuddles can help reduce anxiety.
- They are accepting of who you are.
- They can make you laugh.
- No more sweeping up crumbs.
- They will be your new binge-watching buddy.
- Shelters want to find a forever home for these animals, while pet stores are about making a profit.
Adopting Versus Buying Pets
When you adopt a pet from a shelter, you are saving that pet's life. You are giving them the home they deserve. Some shelters are really full and can't accept new animals that are lost, so they end up going to kill shelters.
When you buy your pet from a pet store or somewhere else, yes, you are still giving that pet a home. But most puppies from a store are from puppy mills.
How to Avoid Puppy Mills
If you buy your puppy from a pet store, it is likely from a puppy mill.
Puppy mills are where dogs are bred. They usually are housed poorly and have no medical treatment. The mother dogs are in small cages and have no human companionship. Once the dog is no longer breedable, it is usually killed. Puppy mills are able to stay open because so many pet stores get their puppies from them. Let's fight to stop puppy mills by not supporting them with our money!
My Adoption Experience
In 2013, my mom received a call from a local shelter. They just brought two dogs in that were stranded out at the lake, and it was raining. We had been on a list to get these kinds of calls. We headed to the shelter to meet the dogs. By the time we got there, one pup had been rescued. We waited in a room, and the lady brought in a scared puppy. He came to me as I was on the floor at his level. He seemed to take right up with us. The lady informed us that if we didn't take him, he would likely be put down due to lack of space in the shelter.
It's 2018 now, and we still have our Deanie boy. I'm so glad we got him that day. He is my best friend, along with little Leo.
The Shelter Pet Project
The Shelter Pet Project is an organization that helps you find a pet in your area to adopt. The Humane Society and Maddie's Fund are two leading animal welfare groups that have come up with this project. It puts shelter animals first when it comes to adoption.
Just type in what pet you are looking for and your zip code, and find your new fur baby.
Remember: Adopting helps more than just one animal. When you adopt, you make room in that shelter for another animal to have a second chance. Please consider adoption today! Save a pet's life.
- Top Reasons to Adopt a Pet : The Humane Society of the United States
Getting a new pet? Find out why you should adopt from a shelter or rescue
This article is accurate and true to the best of the author's knowledge. It is not meant to substitute for diagnosis, prognosis, treatment, prescription, or formal and individualized advice from a veterinary medical professional. Animals exhibiting signs and symptoms of distress should be seen by a veterinarian immediately.
© 2018 Savanna H


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Washington (CNN) - A growing number of outfits are planning to boycott this year's Conservative Political Action Conference, the annual gathering of right-leaning activists in Washington known as CPAC, in part because organizers are welcoming a pro-gay Republican group into the fold.
And one of the groups pushing the CPAC boycott, the American Principles Project, took fresh aim at the conference Tuesday for inviting Indiana Republican Gov. Mitch Daniels, who angered many social conservatives last year by calling for a "truce" on social issues while the country works through its economic problems.
"Governor Daniels' selection is an affront to the millions of conservatives who believe that social issues such as abortion and traditional marriage are non-negotiable," APP's executive director Andy Blom said in a statement.
Blom told CNN he sees Daniels having a difficult time winning the GOP nomination, or the general election, without the help of social conservatives.
"He has flown his white flag and he has surrendered," Blom said. "The foot soldiers in the conservative movement have for so long been pro-lifers. You can't win a national election by throwing these people away. We aren't going to stand for it."
Other potential presidential contenders committed to speak at CPAC are Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty, Mississippi Gov. Haley Barbour, former House Speaker Newt Gingrich, Sen. John Thune, Texas Gov. Rick Perry and Texas Rep. Ron Paul.
Daniels has sent strong signals that he intends to run but has pledged not to make a decision until after Indiana's legislative session concludes in April.
But while his fiscally conservative record has made him attractive to the economic wing in the party, other conservatives were baffled last June when he told the National Review that the next president "would have to call a truce on the so-called social issues."
Daniels has not backed away from that assertion, however, ominously comparing that the country's debt problem to the threat of an invading army massing at the border.
Aides to Daniels did not respond to a request for comment about APP's statement, nor did a CPAC representative.
CPAC, meanwhile, has continued to take heat from conservative groups upset over the inclusion of GOProud, the pro-gay Republican group, and the management style of American Conservative Union president David Keene, who runs the event.
Among the influential conservative groups planning to skip this year's event: The Heritage Foundation, Tony Perkins' Family Research Council, Brent Bozell's Media Research Center, and Concerned Women for America.
Blom said he believes those groups will hold something of a rival conference later this year built around the annual Values Voter Summit.
Forget the boycott, they should just go ahead and form new party –The Intolerant Party. Their creed could be that education, the economy, healthcare for all citizens, and living in a safe modern society that can compete in the global market are meaningless goals. All that matters is dictating the sex lives of others; that should be the primary focus of the government. Best of luck to them.
"He has flown his white flag and he has surrendered," Blom said. "The foot soldiers in the conservative movement have for so long been pro-lifers. You can't win a national election by throwing these people away. We aren't going to stand for it."
Good grief. What absolute drivel this fool preaches.
A house full of many cracks can not stand. I admire very much my friends on the opposition side (GOP)! 2012 can not come fast enough!
Finally, a republican I can vote for! I am so tired of republicans shoving their morals down my throat. John marrying Joe, or Sue marrying Mary, or someone deciding to have an abortion, are not going to solve the financial crisis we are in. Our country in in a deep financial mess, that has been created over the last several years, and we need to focus our energies on the economy and jobs, not on social issues. Would you rather have no job and our country in financial ruin, but keep gays from marrying? I think a lot of you social conservatives would vote that way. It is a time for a change. Religion should play no part in politics.
While economics is VERY important, conservatives can not afford to give on moral issues. Those on the left and in the "center" are pushing very hard to take morality out of our laws. Not only that, but many on the left would have your tax dollars funding abortions. If you want to murder your baby, to a certain extent that is between you and God (not that I wouldn't vote to make abortion illegal in this country), but DO NOT pay for it with my tax dollars
These buy-bull bangin' right wing "family values" types are pathetic...What, they think they are gonna come down with a case of the "gay" 'casue the guests have gay cooties and it will rub off on them? Uh, I just answered by own question by askin' it...Sorry.
The Heritage Foundation, Tony Perkins' Family Research Council, Brent Bozell's Media Research Center, and Concerned Women for America: If you invite groups and individuals that refuse to wear the nazi uniform, we won't go!
Tony Perkins' Family Research Council: Certified Hate Group


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The Worst That Could Happen? To Who Exactly?
Revised 12/31/19
Normally I am a fan of songwriter Jimmy Webb. He gave us such fantastic songs like "By the Time I Get to Phoenix," the somewhat incomprehensible "MacArthur Park" and many others.
But around the same time he wrote those classics, he wrote a real stinker from a social science perspective; "The Worst that Could Happen."
Maybe You Remember It?
And this is the end
They say you really mean it
This guy's the one that makes you feel
So safe, so sane and so secure
And baby if he loves you more than me
And baby if he loves you more than me
Maybe it's the best thing
Maybe it's the best thing for you
But it's the worst that could happen to me.
I'm never gettin' married, never gettin' married
You know that's not my scene
But a girl like you needs to be married
I've known all along you couldn't live forever
in between.
And baby if he loves you more than me
And baby if he loves you more than me
Maybe it's the best thing
Maybe it's the best thing for you
But it's the worst that could happen to me.
And girl I don't really blame you
For having a dream of your own
Hey, girl, I don't really blame you
A woman like you needs a house and a home.
Baby if he really loves you more than me
Maybe it's the best thing
Maybe it's the best thing for you
But it's the worst that could happen to me.
Oh girl don't wanna get married
Girl I'm never, never gonna marry
Oh it's the worst thing that could happen
Oh, girl…..
Lack of Commitment is Only a Part of The Story
Well, according to research, we probably know a lot more about this guy that the song isn't telling us.
Most likely, he was a mediocre student in high school and had a tendency to get into trouble on a regular basis.
He's probably had a few DUI's and has been less than faithful to his girl. In fact, "the worst that could happen" would be if the girl in question coerced our hero into marriage. He's gotta be in it to win it.
Social scientists were shocked to find that there are real and profound differences between long-term married couples and those who are merely cohabitating long-term.
A recent study by Pepper Schwartz and Philip Blumstein studied over 12,000 straight and gay cohabitating couples and compared them to married couples. They reasonably figured that long-term cohabitators would be pretty similar to long-term married couples.
Boy, were they surprised!
They Don't Look Married at All!
Even US law cuts cohabitators' social slack. If you can hang in there for seven years, you are more or less married in the eyes of the law. This research proved the exact opposite.
The longer a couple cohabits, the less they look like married couples!
Safe Sane and Secure? Not!
Cohabitating couples are less likely to have each other's back in times of financial stress, and less likely to be faithful during the relationship.
They were also more likely to "better deal" their partner and leave for a more attractive relationship.
What is especially sad was the finding that cohabitating men were less liable to stick around during any sort of tough times.
He Doesn't Have Your Back…Is That the Worst That Could Happen?
As a whole, these men tended not to have their partner's back. The research is not an indictment of all cohabitating couples. Just the long-term ones. Couples who are long-term cohabitators are not similar to couples who have been married for the same length of time.
Now I realize it's not considered polite to emphasize the word "marriage." The word "relationship" offends fewer people these days.
But please don't understand me too quickly. I'm not saying that married couples are morally superior to cohabitators. However, this is a massive study that was very well designed. It produced a startling and sobering set of facts that may be hard to accept.
Class Differences
Even as cohabitation has become normalized, researchers have bestowed little curiosity about the consequences for its subsequent impact on the union. Cohabitation has become widespread across all social classes (Kennedy & Bumpass, 2008). Yet its increase has been greatest among those with a high school degree or some college.
Between 1987 and 2002, the percentage of women with a high school degree who had ever cohabited increased 115%; among women with some college schooling (but no degree) the proportion grew by 93%. Growth in cohabitation among college-educated women was considerably less, only 45% (Chandra et al., 2005).
Class differences in transitions from cohabitation to marriage also appear to be widening, with living together more likely to serve as a springboard to marriage for non-poor women than for those who are disadvantaged (Lichter et al., 2006).
What Does This Research Mean?
The findings from this study have implications for practitioners and researchers.
Even though "common sense" suggests that those who live together are at least considering marriage, research demonstrates that many partners had not discussed future plans at the time they started living together.
Furthermore, the wolf is not far from the door for many of these couples.
The Worst That Could Happen is Chronic Insecurity
Many study subjects report the importance of financial necessity or convenience.
Economic drivers may make strange bedfellows. Relational security may be tenuous, and the future is uncertain.
Researchers went as far as saying that couples therapists should be aware of these findings and use caution in encouraging greater formalization of such unions, given research suggesting that such relationships are more volatile, with one partner often expressing low levels of commitment (Rhoades et al., 2009; Stanley, Rhoades, et al., 2006; Surra & Hughes, 1997).
Moreover, ongoing premarital counseling regarding fiscal management, family planning, and relationship skills courses may be necessary to provide such couples with the skills necessary to maintain healthy relationships (Stanley, Amato, Johnson, & Markman, 2006).
Essentially Long-Term Cohabitators Lack 2 Fundamental Traits that Married Couples Demonstrably Possess: Commitment and Long Term Thinking...
Baby.…If He Loves You More Than Me……
Well, I don't know about that, but he's certainly in it to win it.
It might be the worst that can happen for you.. but trust me, chances are you'll probably get over it soon enough.
Long-Term Cohabitating Men like our Hero Need a House and a Home Too!
Living "in between" is bad for our hero's health too. Committed men like the guy she will marry live an average of eight years longer than uncommitted men.
Gottman cites this compelling research, and advises men that a strong, committed relationship with an intimate partner is, as he puts it "the best form of self-interest." So if getting married "is not your scene" give it another look. If you're too legit to quit… why not commit?


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Today I wanted to bring to you this very simple yet pretty country wreath I made for Spring to hang on my front door.
The supplies you'll need.
A Grapevine wreath
Two kinds of ribbon in varying sizes
Nice artificial flowers.
Wire Snippers
Tape, Straight Pins or Glue
I chose to use a grapevine wreath because with this type you don't need to use any hot glue or anything to attach your pieces, unless you want to of course. With this kind of wreath you can simply tuck in your ends and they will stay. The other added plus is because you haven't had to permanently attach anything to the wreath you can swap it out all year long if you chose with different ornaments on it.
I also did not use burlap on this project because while I know burlap is a very hot item in the crafting world, my skin does not seem to like burlap. It makes me very itchy so I went with a ribbon that sort of looks like burlap. For the my second ribbon I chose a very pale pink.
To begin all you need to do is to start wrapping your ribbon around your wreath form tucking in the first end of your ribbon on the back of the grapevine wreath then you continue all the way around the wreath until you reach the end where you will then tuck your ending piece in as well. The ribbon should be secure but not wrapped so tightly that it distorts the ribbon or the wreath. When finished it should look like this.
Next you want to begin wrapping your second ribbon choice around your original ribbon. This can get tricky but with a little patience it will work. Also, since I did not want to use any kind of hot glue to adhere permanently I took a small piece of shipping tape and taped the beginning end of my second ribbon to the back of my original ribbon so it would stay in place. And I did the same thing for the ending piece of the second ribbon as well. Here's a photo to show you what I did. May not be pretty but it worked.
Once you've completed your second ribbon your wreath should look something like this.
Next step is adding the flowers. I took some wire snips and cut them off the bunch they were in but leaving enough stem in order to stick them into my grapevine wreath. You can arrange yours any way you choose. I chose to do mine more to the side than the center. Carefully placing your flowers in the wreath being sure not to disturb your ribbon too much. When completed it should look something like this.
I hope you enjoyed this DIY and if you decide to make one please let me know about and post a photo of your completed wreath to my Facebook page. I would love to see it!