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Arthur, Nebraska: Church made of Hay Bales
Built in 1928, the whitewashed church looks normal from the outside. But on the inside there's a display with a plexiglass-encased hay bale cross-section.
Pilgrim Holiness Church
- Address:
- Hawkins St., Arthur, NE
- Directions:
- Pilgrim Holiness Church. On the north side of Hawkins St., one block east of Hwy 61/92.
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Visitor Tips and News About Church made of Hay Bales
Reports and tips from RoadsideAmerica.com visitors and Roadside America mobile tipsters. Some tips may not be verified. Submit your own tip.
Here's an update of the Arthur, Nebraska straw bale church. The tour guide, Ted, is a widower of the daughter of one of the past pastors of this church. He says that since being on the internet, several third world countries have sent committees to Arthur to study the concept of straw bale buildings for their people.
In addition to the church, there is also a straw bale home one block from the church.[Bob Arens, 10/29/2000]
This Sunday, we'll be doing the Tornado Salvation Prayer again. The church is whitewashed, looking fairly unremarkable from the outside. On the inside, there is a display with a plexiglassed hay bale cross-section.
Arthur is a tiny ranching town (and county seat of Arthur County) in the heart of the Nebraska Sandhills region. Pilgrim Holiness Church, just a block off the main road (everything's just a block off the main road), is a nicely preserved hay-bale building. The walls are constructed of hay bales with stucco coating. Check out the miniscule old Arthur County courthouse (behind the modern one). Other hay-bale buildings are in the area. Inquire at the saloon or post office. There's a wonderful, kitschy western welcome sign on the approach into Arthur from the south. Worth an hour's drive north of I-80 if you're in the North Platte/Ogallala region.[Steve Hahn, 04/06/1998]
This actual, full-size church was made out of bales of straw covered with plaster and stucco in 1928.
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The Play Station 3 may have had a rough start in the console race because of the lack of launch titles in comparison to other systems. Well we are now in the year of 2007 and soon to hit 08, but the Play Station is about to break the drought of hit titles with games such as Heavenly Sword and Lair, both exclusive the console, which is sure to set a resonating tone.
"Lair," the next-gen brainchild of Factor 5, the company that brought us the widely-successful "Rogue Squadron" series, promises to be the first game to take full control of the SIXAXIS controller. You play the part of the fantasy world's "Top Gun," piloting a powerful dragon through the skies and on the ground. "Lair" also promises stunning graphics on a scale never-before-seen, with stages as large as 32km square and thousands of actors on the screen (both on the ground and in the air). PS3 gamers everywhere are looking forward to its July release date.
Heavenly Sword
Dubbed by many as the "Goddess of War," Nariko from Ninja Theory's "Heavenly Sword" unleashes destruction upon countless enemies as she seeks revenge. The Heavenly Sword itself can change into three distinct weapons, each with unique combat styles. When paired with the game's environmental physics, this makes for a unique tactical experience unlike previous action titles.
Unreal Tournament 3
Epic Games has been basking in the success of "Gears of War." Their next project, the next installment in the immensely popular franchise "Unreal Tournament," promises to push them higher as a successful development studio. The fast-paced and intense multiplayer that "Unreal Tournament 3" has been known for, along with feverish solo campaign, will be materialized on the 360 and PS3 with the jaw-dropping visuals that their Unreal Engine provides.
Devil May Cry 4
Many Sony fans died a little inside when Capcom decided to take the action franchise "Devil May Cry" multiplatform, but the Sons of Sparda haven't left the PS3. "Devil May Cry 4," being the second sequel in the series (with "Devil May Cry 3" being a prequel), introduces two new characters: Nero and Kyrie. Dante, the series lead, makes an appearance as per his stylish idiom, but Nero takes his place as this title's main playable character. Xbots and members of the Sony Defense Force alike look forward to its release.
Final Fantasy XIII
Square-Enix has outdone themselves with their vast "Fabula Nova Crystallis" project. This has lead to a lot of confusion: Is this newest installment an RPG? Is it still PS3 exclusive? How can a mobile phone play those stunning graphics?
The "Fabula Nova Crystallis" project is known to contain three titles in three genres.
• "Final Fantasy XIII" follows the RPG precedent that has captivated millions around the globe. Motomu Toriyama, the director behind "Final Fantasy X" and its sequel, has returned to direct this title.
• "Final Fantasy Agito XIII" will be an RPG set to release for mobile phones. The game includes thirteen playable characters, twelve being students at a school for magic and the last a moogle.
• "Final Fantasy Versus XIII" is an action title, set in the same universe as the others. It is being directed by Tetsuya Nomura, who also directed the popular "Kingdom Hearts" series.
Like their "Final Fantasy VII Franchise," Square-Enix plans to extend "Final Fantasy XIII" as a franchise all its own, with additional games, movies, books, and beyond. Don't expect this bomb to drop in 2007, but JRPG-lovers worldwide continue to hold their breath.
Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of Patriots
Solid Snake vows to return in 2007 in his last hurrah: "Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots." After it's success on the original Playstation, the Metal Gear Solid franchise looks to capitalize on the new features of the PS3, in order to give the game a new level of cinematic qualities. Hideo Kojima, the games mastermind, has taken the series to a more modern setting for his game and has changed to focus to a more psychological sort of combat. Though rumors have been spreading of a delay, "Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots" is slated for release in Q4 of 2007.
White Knight Story
While Level-5 has released very little info about their first RPG title for the PS3, "White Knight Story" promises real-time tactical combat in an "Oblivion"-esque setting. Players are allowed to save "Function Palettes" with different mixes of abilities, allowing for combos and specialized combat. Foes are fought on a much larger scale than your average JRPG, with some creatures reaching as high as 2,000 meters. Level-5's President Akihiro Hino promises a full-length RPG, with at least 50 hours of gameplay; "White Knight Story"'s Japanese release is scheduled for Q4 of 2007, with worldwide releases shortly afterward.
Killzone 2
One of Sony's flagship FPS franchises, "Killzone" has received a lot of publicity following the teaser trailers shown at E3's 2005 conference. While few expect the game's gameplay rendering to match the trailer, its expectations remain high. With vehicle and foot combat, along with destructible environments, the PS3's "Killzone" looks promising.
Army of Two
EA's has advertised their third-person shooter "Army of Two" as a unique co-op experience, with either the game's built-in AI or a friend. Everything from parachuting to repelling and even death have been added into the coop experience, making cooperation and teamwork paramount in surpassing the game's physics-based puzzled and large squad combat. Late 2007 is the release window for the game on both 360 and PS3.
Amidst controversy over the game's similarities to New York City and a cryptic statement pointing toward DVD9 as a limitation to the game's content, Rockstar Games' "Grand Theft Auto 4" looks to be the most successful in the franchise's ten-strong lineup. Set in Liberty City, the game tells the story of an Eastern European man named Niko Bellic, who arrives by boat in Liberty City in search of the "American Dream." October 16, 2007 looks to be the magic day for fans of the series.
Half Life 2: Orange Box
After creating what is widely known as the best story-driven FPS of all time, Valve has taken the time to port their newest edition, "Half Life 2," to the PS3 and 360. The "Orange Box," as it's called, contains much more than the original hit. Since the game's original release, Valve has also released two episodic sequels, respectively named "Episode One" and "Episode Two." Both will be included in the "Orange Box."
Valve doesn't stop there. The long-awaited sequel to their multiplayer hit "Team Fortress" will be included, along with a full version of a Digipen senior project titled "Portals." Originally a Half Life mod (much like Counterstrike), "Portals" is built purely as a puzzle game.
That brings to official count to 5 full titles in one box. Sounds like a good deal.
Ratchet and Clank: Tools of Destruction
After the success of their launch title "Resistance: Fall of Man," Insomniac Games brushed the grit from their dev consoles and returned to their flagship franchise: "Ratchet and Clank." Insomniac is known for their creative weapon designs and this newest title promises nothing less. Armed with SIXAXIS-controlled weapons and texture streaming, "Tools of Destruction" should be a welcome addition to the PS3's fall lineup.
"Warhawk" has been built around dynamic multiplayer, including various ground vehicles, a multi-purpose air vehicle, and an arsenal of weapons for use in the game modes. Although the game lost its single-player during development, the PSN will be hosting the game for download later this year.
Uncharted: Drake's Fortune
Naughty Dog, the creators of "Crash Bandicoot" and the original "Jak and Daxter," has cleansed its palette of cartoony games in order to bring us "Uncharted: Drake's Fortune." The game looks to play much like the "Tomb Raider" series, but with more panache. Amazing character animations and highly-scripted camera motion seem to be the focus of this game, offering dramatic experiences throughout its Bermuda setting.

subset: commoncrawl


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BRVC's veterinarians and veterinary care team members are committed to helping you and your pet with behavior and nutrition issues, including weight management. Our experience in these areas has helped pets who are anxious or fearful, have special dietary needs, or who require assistance in achieving a healthy weight.
We understand that some pets have a more difficult time than others adjusting to the routines of everyday life. Our veterinarians are ready to help with these issues including – but not limited to – noise or thunderstorm phobia, inappropriate urination or defecation, and separation anxiety. We'll ask you to complete a detailed questionnaire ahead of time about your household, pet, and daily routines so we can make recommendations during your appointment to reduce or eliminate unwanted behaviors.
Nutrition and Weight Management
Diet plays a key role in the treatment of many pet health conditions and diseases. This includes everything from heart, liver, and kidney disease, cancer, dental disease and urinary conditions such as bladder stones. Our veterinarians will make recommendations about the most appropriate food for your pet depending upon his or her own unique nutritional requirements. We also understand that some pets need a little help achieving and maintaining a healthy weight and offer a complimentary pet weight management program for all of our patients.


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I started blogging three years ago this May 7th. This is the part where I should say that the time has flown, but it seems like a long time since that first blog post. There have been many stitches (both knit and sewn) since that day. I have made many friends through blogging about my craft life and thankfully have not alienated you all with devotion to certain television shows or my irrational rants. It has also provided my brick and mortar friends with a way to stay on top of my daily life and complaints.
As I my blogiversary approaches, my blog will reach another milestone: my 1000th comment! To reward you all for sticking around (or for having just happened upon my blog today) I want to offer some anniversary prizes. While wool doesn't come along until the 7th anniversary, leather just doesn't cut it around these parts. Instead I offer you the following:
A $10 gift certificate for Zer0 Markers, generously donated by Ms. BMP herself. Aija makes some kick-ass stitch markers and row counters. I bought some for myself just last week. Mine are grey and blue freshwater pearls and are light as a feather. She has many configurations to choose from. I l-o-v-e mine.
A skein of Fearless Fibers Superwash sock yarn in Midnight Passion. I love this yarn, but in assessing my stash I realized that I cannot knit all of the sock yarn that I have so why not share the fibery wealth? Deb does amazing things with dye. This yarn comes in an extra big skein of 550 yards.
A needlecase from Caro of Splityarn. Caro's creations are both pretty and clever (pretty clever!). She recycles books and makes them into cases that can hold your circular needles, DPNs, and crochet hooks. If you don't win this one, you can find them along with stitch markers and mini-wallets at her Etsy site. And soon more needlecases will be available at Scout's Swag.
A $25 gift certificate for Spunky Eclectic's shop. Long ago I was Amy's secret pal and I have followed her site and her shop ever since. Her colorways are amazing and I have spent many an hour drooling over her yarns. Let me live vicariously through you!
Prizes will be given to the 1000th commenter and three other randomly drawn commenters. Aah, but you do have to sing just a little bit for your supper. To enter post a link to your first blog post. If you don't have a blog then post a link to the first blog that you remember reading. Enter by May 6th, I will announce winners on May 7th.


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Pest Control
by Ben Yazman
In the morning Pete had three calls before the old woman. The first was just a check for rodent infestation as a favor for a couple in their twilight years who had often called Pete's father in the early days of the family pest removal business. He laid a few rat traps around the basement and crawl spaces of the house on the edge of town. Then he drove back across the sprawling country town to chase a family of squirrels out of an attic and remove their nest of sticks and dirt from a keep-sake box. Last, he answered an emergency call about a copperhead snake on a newlywed couple's patio that had come close to biting their miniature schnauzer. Pete pulled the venomous animal out from behind a propane grill, holding the snake by the back of its head so that its mouth and fangs were held open and safely directed by Pete's fingers. As he carried the snake to his truck past the frightened pair, the groom looked at him with admiring approval and his young wife whispered that Pete was a hero, drawing a suspicious look from her husband.
Pete drove across town for a third time to the address listed next on his docket. An old woman sat on her front porch in a maroon cotton dress waiting for him. She sat in the shade of a pastel yellow umbrella, looking out over her tiny kingdom of crab grass and garden gnomes. On a table next to her sat a tall glass of iced tea, garnished with a lemon wedge and long straw, and a large ashtray, full to the brim with cigarette butts. She seemed not to move at all in her chair. In one hand she clutched a metal cane with a black foam-gripped handle that looked like so many Pete had seen in nursing homes. In the other was a lit cigarette which the old woman pressed to her lips with hands that shook violently though her head and torso stayed still. Pete wondered if she had been left outside by a caretaker, as she didn't even move her head to recognize his truck as he pulled up to the curb in front of her house.
Pete jumped out of the truck, his work boots clacking on the pavement under him. He straightened his white collared shirt with its Dehl Pest Removal logo with one hand and held his clipboard with the other. He grinned at the old woman as he approached the end of her walk and after coming up the first steps to her porch he extended his hand, "Afternoon, I'm Pete Dehl from Dehl's Pest Removal," he said, about to ask if she or someone else had placed the call into his office.
"You're late," the old woman said caustically. "You were supposed to be here thirty minutes ago and I've been waiting outside in this heat all morning. Now what if you had given me a heat stroke taking so long?"
Pete, taken aback, apologized and explained the prior emergency call. Customers often enjoyed hearing such stories about dangerous animals.
"Well you made a commitment to me and I expect you to follow through with it," she responded.
"Yes ma'am," Pete said. Dealing with agitated, impatient and scared customers was often part of Pete's job.
"Right. Well, there's a raccoon down there," the woman said, shaking her cigarette at the porch below her feet, breathing out a haze of chalky smoke. She stood slowly, leaning on her cane with quivering arms. Pete moved forward to climb the last steps and help her but she shot him a violent glare that froze him. The woman dropped her cigarette and squashed it with a grey felt house shoe and turned toward the door. "I'm going inside. Get it done, boy."
"Ma'am," Pete said.
"What?" the old woman turned her head to grimace at him over her shoulder.
"Usually I have homeowners show me where the problem is."
"Well I already told you," she said, "under my goddamn home."
Without another word she hobbled into her dark home, leaving Pete standing with his clipboard. Like the professional he was, Pete returned to his truck and prepared to get to work.
In the back of the Dehl Pest Removal truck sat a vest that Pete wore on most jobs that was basically like those mesh vests fisherman wear to hold hooks and lures. Its many pockets were packed with tools of the trade; a flashlight, industrial strength leather gloves, a pocket knife and a small can of mace which had only been necessary once against a bobcat trapped in a woodshed. Also in the truck was a spray canister which could be loaded with either poisons or a foul smelling liquid meant to mimic a predator's scent and scare away smaller critters. Pete preferred the latter since he had always done everything in his power to avoid killing the innocent animals he removed from peoples' homes. There was also a variety of traps, large and small, cages with trap doors that spring closed when an animal trips the trigger from inside. Pete carried in his truck a number of carpentry tools as well, saws and drills for getting into walls, even the necessary tools to repair such holes, though it really was not part of his job description.
Pete put on his vest and began his work by walking around the outside of the old woman's house to look for possible entry and exit points that an animal may have found or made to get underneath the floorboards. Pete found some scratches along a plywood cover to a vent leading under the house and what might have been small animal tracks in some ankle high grass under a rear window by the back door. These scratches and tracks led up the wall of the house, where Pete followed them to the bottom of a window sill flower box, empty of any flowers, filled only dry brown dirt. Leaning over the flower box to look for more evidence in the dusty box or the window screen he was startled by the old woman's scowling face looking down at him through the glass. He almost fell backwards but quickly moved on without looking back at the window. He could only find one entry point under the house which was right under the stairs leading up to the porch in the front of the house.
Crawling into spaces like this was Pete's least favorite part of the job. Animals could get scared easily in a small area and attack. As a boy he'd ridden with his father on several house calls and been forced to go into even smaller spaces because of his size and more than once he had been scratched and bitten, calling for several doses of a rabies vaccine delivered directly to his stomach through a long needle. Even then (as now) his father's words, "Suck it up and do the job," would elicit a silent groan before something in Pete forced him to follow through with the task at hand.
Pete knelt by the stairs and shined his flashlight in the area under the porch but didn't see any animals or nests, only a few sticks, strips of insulation and assorted pipes and pieces of wood. He laid down on his belly in the grass and reached in to grab a copper pipe, about three feet long, he pushed an area clear for him to crawl forward into the darkness and he crept in. Pete lay prone in the foot and a half tall space under the house's floorboards just inside the opening, scanning for deadly snakes or rabid rodents. The dirt front lawn's grass ended at the edge of the dark crevas and made for a coolness that Pete thought was ironic.
The flashlight in his hand cast a fairly large cone of light but as he shone it on one end of the space, thoughts of an animal creeping up on him from behind him in the dark made him jerk his light to the other side of the cave hysterically. Just as he was about to crawl deeper the floorboards overhead shuddered and creaked with the weight of the old woman dragging her feet around her house and Pete panicked and grabbed his mace canister and held it out toward the direction of the echoing sound. As soon as he realized that the sound he had heard was not an animal's attack cry, he forced himself to chuckle and turned to go back to his truck for a repellant spray. As he turned around slowly in the cramped space his light glanced over a bundle of sticks in the front right corner of the house which Pete knew immediately to be a raccoon's nest. A half second later, a cat-sized blur of black and grey hair darted from the bundle towards him. In the moment it took Pete to realize the situation he shut his eyes and turned his head, bracing against an attack. The animal ran past him and out into the light of the front yard.
Pete nudged the nest carefully into the light with the pipe in his hand as he crawled out himself.
Back in the grass Pete was startled to see the old woman smoking a cigarette in her front lawn with one hand, leaning on her cane with the other, watching as he crawled from beneath her porch.
Pete averted his eyes from the old woman and took a moment to compose himself while the she continued to stare at him. "Looks like a raccoon made a nest down there," he said.
"I know," the old woman replied, "I've seen it before and I saw it run out just now. What are you going to do about it?" she asked.
"He's gone for now but he'll probably be back. I'd board it up if you have some plywood laying around. Do you?"
"Of course not, I'm an old woman. What would I need plywood for?"
"Right, well then I could lay down a repellant spray and set some traps."
"How about poison?" she asked
"Well small animal poison could be dangerous for neighborhood cats and dogs so I'd prefer to just capture the little guy then seal up the hole tomorrow."
The old woman spat on the ground and scowled at him. "Take care of it," she said, hobbling back toward the steps. "You'll pick it up tomorrow."
"Yes ma'am," Pete replied.
Pete laid a cage trap about three feet long and a foot tall and wide and loaded the trigger with a piece of cheese from his lunch. Then he sprayed a foul smelling deterrent around the outside of the house.
When Pete was done with this he knocked on the front door and asked the old woman what time he should return the next day.
"As soon as possible," She replied curtly.
"Then I'll be here first thing, eight o clock," he said with a smile.
"Good. Don't be late again," she said, closing the door before Pete could respond.
"Yes ma'am," he said, mostly to himself as he turned to walk back to his truck.
Pete pulled his truck up to old woman's house right on time the next day. As he walked up to the house he could see the woman standing in the front window waiting for him. He waved at her and got right to work, checking his trap. He was very happy to see that his plan had worked, that the raccoon had returned to its home under the porch and taken the bait. It now laid curled up in the darkest corner of the cage, blinking at Pete as he shined his light on it. Pete put the caged animal in his truck bed before returning to the house to let his client know the good news.
A hard knock on the screen door brought her onto the porch.
"Got it, ma'am," Pete said, thumbs hooked confidently through his belt loops. "It should be all clear but I think you ought to hire someone to board everything up down there so nothing else can get in."
His client's face lit up. "It's alive?" she asked.
"Yes ma'am."
"Well, can I see him?"
"Sure," Pete said, opening the screen door so the little old lady could maneuver her cane down the stone steps to the bed of Pete's work truck to see the incarcerated raccoon, nibbling on a walnut clutched in its tiny paws.
"What are you going to do with it?" she asked.
"I usually let them go out in the woods."
This excited the old woman. "The woods around here?"
"Well, no ma'am. About twenty miles out of town, I'd say."
"I want you to kill it," she said, squinting past her wrinkled nose at the raccoon. It was sitting happily on its haunches, staring back at her. "This little bastard has caused a mess of trouble for me and I want him gone from this earth."
He didn't quite know how to explain to this woman why he did not want to do that. "Why?" he asked, finally.
At that question the old woman turned from the cage to look Pete dead in the eye, her wrinkled nose no higher on him than his monogrammed breast pocket. He could see she was upset. "He's torn up my garden and worse," she said seriously, "He's scared away my grandchildren. They're not allowed over here anymore because their parents are afraid they'll get bitten. Now I did everything I could on my own before I called you. I set traps, laid poison and had my son-in-laws crawling around down there but when they couldn't do anything I had to call, because I'm just an old woman." She lowered her face. "I know you have poison in the truck. Can't you help an old woman with a little satisfaction?"
Pete awkwardly picked up a clipboard from the truck's bed and shuffled through its papers. He skimmed the form that lacked only the Client's signature to be complete, stating that the job was done. The Client, Mrs. Donalds, as the form said, kept a steady bead on Pete's eyes as he stared deeply into his company's logo on the form and considered what a better man might do in this situation.
Pete's father started the family pest removal business because it afforded a man enough independence to escape society's many confines. Fancy words, Pete thought in hindsight, for a hunter turned business man.
Riding along in the rusted Ford truck cab that was then and still was, the rolling office of Dehl Pest Removal, Pete's dad eagerly taught him about business, customer relations and more. "Never let 'em tell you how to do your job." he'd say whenever a customer was not satisfied.
Smoking fat, unfiltered cigarettes that only seemed to add to the smell of rotting animal in the truck, Pete's dad would often take off his ten gallon hat and sit it on his son's tiny head when he was getting to an especially important part of the lecture. "Now, you always want to keep your clients coming back for what's called return business." At this Pete's father would raise his eyebrows and nod for emphasis. "One way to do that, boy, is to keep them wanting more." Pete never really understood how this figured into his dad's tendency to kill the animals that brought them work.
Even when it came to the recreational hunting trips that the two would go on, lessons on the family business would always creep in. "Those are squirrel droppings," His dad would say, squatting by a small mound of pellets, "now you remember how to catch a squirrel right?" and Pete would nod with unadulterated glee. They would track rabbits, foxes and deer and the first time Pete carried a gun his dad coached him into shooting an eight point buck.
The immense animal's antlers spanned as far as Pete's arms from hand to hand and the boy was sure it was the most impressive creature he'd ever seen. His father had to help him drag it back to their camp and hoist it up on a skinning rack. He handed his son a knife and pointed to where he should begin the cut to skin it. "Just like you've seen me do," he said.
Pete held the knife at arm's length. Suddenly the carcass dangling from its hind legs in front of him was horrifying and sad. As he pressed the blade against the soft belly of the deer he cringed at the phantom tingle on his own stomach, as if someone were pressing the blade to his navel.
Skinning deer (and all other game) had been part of the regular lesson plan for Pete. His father had shown him how to gut a deer many times and had never failed to recite his golden rule of hunting. "You kill it, you skin it."
"I can't." Pete dropped the knife and sat down to cry. The two didn't look at each other on the ride home.
Pete was never brought on a hunting trip again, though he was often required to work long hours as his father's assistant. His father would demand more and more of him, pushing him to seek and destroy rodents with a fever that Pete just didn't share with his father. Pete would be sent into crawl spaces and attics. He would be ordered to strike down wasp's nests and pick up large snakes. All of these tasks Pete hardened himself to and developed a kind of pleasure in catching even scary animals, though he always refused to kill them, fueling his father's intensity. Pete enjoyed helping people with their animal problems, but could never share his father's enthusiasm for destroying them.
Eventually Pete took over the family business when his father became old. "It's all yours now, you run your own business," Pete's father had said to him, dropping the keys to the truck in his hand.
"Mrs. Donalds," he said, looking up from the clipboard. "I completed my obligation to you. Now there's a city ordinance that prohibits me from exterminating this animal here, but you have every assurance that he will never be a problem for you or your family ever again."
She nodded her head with disappointment. He handed her the clipboard and pointed to where he wanted her to sign, then held it on his knee for her to scribble her name. She took the pen in her little bent hand but never took her eyes off of Pete's.
"You coward," she said, snarling.
"Excuse me?"
"You call yourself a man! You're exactly what's wrong with your generation. Bunch of sissies."
"Ma'am, I'm just doing my job." Pete stammered, suddenly aware that he was still standing with his knee out so the old woman could sign the form on the clipboard, while she trudged up her walk.
"You're job?" Mrs. Donalds was practically yelling. "Your job is to take care of my raccoon problem."
"I already told you, the problem is solved. This little guy won't bother you any more." Pete said, trying keep from fighting with the old woman.
Muttering something about her late husband, the old woman pivoted on her cane and turned toward the house. Pete watched her slowly hobble inside, wincing as she took each step one by one. He thought she had left him to do as he wished and was just about to leave when she appeared back at the door and was coming back down the stairs. Pete walked over and offered his hand to help her down again, but jumped back when he saw she had a dull silver revolver in her knobby fist.
"Mrs. Donalds! What are you going to do? You can't shoot it here, you'll be thrown in jail," Pete said, running along side of her as she hobbled down the walkway to the car, waving his clipboard in exaggerated and panicked gestures.
"Get out of my way, boy, nobody's going to arrest a crippled old lady," she said, perfectly calm, eyes forward, feet sliding ahead.
"If my husband were here he'd show you how a real man handles a pest," she said.
"This is no way to get me to kill that raccoon," Pete said, "I already told you I can't. Why don't you just let me take him away?"
"Cause I'm going to blow him away," she said.
She was now approaching the truck parked on the curb, the raccoon in the bed craning its head to see the commotion over the wall of the truck bed its cage sat in.
Mrs. Donalds extended the gun upwards with one hand to chest level in a series of jerks before it her arm creaked to a stop. Leaning on the cane with her other arm, she aimed down the top of the weapon. Seeing the old woman pointing a gun at his truck, Pete dropped the clipboard and wrapped his hands around Mrs. Donalds' and the gun, pointing them towards the sky.
The sound of the gun going off made Pete close his eyes and move away instinctively. His ears rang and he was disoriented but in the moment he collected himself and looked back at her, she had dropped the pistol and was clutching her chest, eyes wide. She fell backward onto the walk stiffly, staring into the sky.
Pete dropped to his knees by her side.
"Mrs. Donalds, are you okay?" he asked, looking into the old woman's still face, her loose skin pulled back into an expression frozen in surprise. He looked around and couldn't find any blood.
"Heart attack," she croaked "dumbass." Her head fell back against the ground. Pete's mind raced, he grabbed his cell phone to call for help, with his other hand Pete put his fingers to her throat but could not find a pulse.
When the police came Pete was sitting on the porch, his head in his hands. The cage trap that had earlier held a raccoon, sat empty at his feet.


text: Direct oceanfront 3 bedroom, 2 bath ground floor, corner unit. North building. Private oceanfront patio. Located by the tennis courts. Larger, oceanfront living room with flat screen TV, DVD and recliner. Ocean view, fully equipped kitchen and dining room with seating for six with additional seating at the kitchen counter for three. Master bedroom with king-size bed, TV and private bath with walk-in shower. The second bedroom features a queen and the third bedroom has two twins. The second bath features a tub/shower. Washer and dryer. Wireless internet access.


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You may think that basking in a long, hot bath is simply a relaxing, feel-good thing. In fact, it can provide some similar benefits to exercise. Using blood tests, researchers at Loughborough University in the U.K. found that a hot bath raises the body's temperature, like a workout does, which acts as a catalyst for the inflammatory response usually seen after an intense physical bout.
"Raised core temperature can increase the concentration of a protein found in the blood called IL-6," explains study co-author Christof Leicht, a lecturer in exercise physiology. This protein triggers a sequence of anti-inflammatory reactions that help lower your risk for cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. While participants chilled in hot water for an hour, other research shows as little as 20 minutes, three times a week, has positive effects on blood sugar.
For access to exclusive gear videos, celebrity interviews, and more, subscribe on YouTube!


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GUIDED MEDITATION: STOIC LESSON "REST & RENEW" Stoicism, Leadership, ASMR, Greek Philosophy
I want you to make yourself as comfortable as possible, for today, you will learn about the Stoic Lesson that Seneca wrote about, how we need to "take time to be still and renew our energy…"
He said that "Just like a field that isn't given a break, will quickly lose its fertility, so too will a mind and a body that's overworked become barren and burnout...
After today's session you will begin making more time for finding your inner peace, to rest and relax, to rejuvenate your whole being…
Enjoy !
Alkistis, Confidence & Self-Leadership Coach
PS. And if you'd like to listen to this as an mp3 without any interruptions,
go ahead and support my work via www.Patreon.com/alkistis
Dany Garbola
23/3/2019 07:38:48 pm
Thank you so much for this wonderful meditation
Leave a Reply.
January 2025


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Back in October I posted about, Erick Williamson, who was arrested after a woman and a child saw him nude in his kitchen making coffee early in the morning.
He was found guilty on Friday, but not fined or sent to jail:
"Erick Williamson, 29, continued to believe that he had done nothing wrong and that he did not purposely expose himself to two women and a 7-year-old boy who walked past his house the morning of Oct. 19. He immediately appealed his conviction.
A seven-person jury in misdemeanor appeals court will rule on the propriety of Williamson's domestic nudity in February. 'That's outrageous,' he said after the verdict. 'It's unbelievable." He said publicity from the arrest had cost him a job as a commercial diver. 'I'm the victim,' he said.
Testimony in the hour-long trial before Fairfax General District Court Judge Ian M. O'Flaherty revealed that two separate incidents of alleged exposure had occurred over a two-hour period. Williamson denied standing naked in his doorway or front window and said he had no intent to expose himself to anyone. But O'Flaherty wasn't buying it and likened Williamson to bank robber John Dillinger, who also 'thought he was doing nothing wrong when he walked into banks and shot them up.'"
John Dillinger?


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dailymail.co.uk- An eight-month-old boy in a baby walker was crushed to death after rolling into the path of a lorry – while his mother played on her phone.
The baby, named Nontawat Saingam, was playing in the front yard of the home in Samut Prakan, central Thailand, on Thursday afternoon.
But while his mother, Wilawan Pitpan, 32, chatted to a friend on social media, he managed to push open the gate at the front of the home and roll down the driveway into the road.
CCTV shows how an oncoming truck tried to swerve out of the way but the baby was hit by the rear wheels. The baby was killed instantly after suffering a fractured skull and broken right leg.
Devastated mother Wilawan was seen running into the road seconds later and picking up the boy. His stroller was left in pieces on the road.
Wilawan told reporters she had been watching her son play but did not notice when he opened the one-metre-high metal gate, which was not tightly shut.
Wilawan said she left the child unattended for a while as she was distracted by the conversation with her sister on the Line chat application.
The baby then pushed the walker hard to open the gate and rolled into the road straight into the pathway of the truck.
The mother said: "I didn't know how long I kept looking at my phone and texting with my sister. But I was very shocked when I saw the walker disappeared and the gate was opened.
"I rushed outside and saw what had happened. I called the rescue foundation. I was trying to think that he was just unconscious so they could save him. But then I knew I was wrong.''
Truck driver Sanan Sopapong, 61, said that he was driving away from a house construction four kilometres away when the walker slid on the road in front of him.
He said: "I couldn't drive fast because the road is very narrow. I was shocked to see the walker suddenly rolled very close to the truck. I tried to swerve but the walker instead went under the back wheel."
The driver immediately stopped his truck and helped to try and revive the baby while waiting for the police. Nontawat's body has been delivered to the Institute of Forensic Medicine for an autopsy while police are continuing their investigation.
The regretful mother added: "Now I really wish I could turn back time. I should've been more careful and I would never let him out of my sight, ever."


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The U.S. Postal Service office, on the edge of downtown Portland, sprawls along Northwest Broadway.
(Stephanie Yao/The Oregonian)
A federal judge in Portland chided government agents Friday for running a series of elaborate ruses to catch a U.S. mail carrier they accuse of fraudulently obtaining workers' compensation benefits.
Agents went so far as to set up a phony business to lure their target – 41-year-old Brian W. Hendricks – into a 7 ½ -hour deep-sea fishing expedition. They also duped him into an interview with an undercover agent posing as a vocational rehabilitation specialist.
Throughout the investigation, agents of the U.S. Postal Service's Office of Inspector General secretly videotaped Hendricks, a former Marine sergeant who served in the Middle East. Much of that surveillance came from a camera mounted on a utility pole outside his Vancouver home.
Senior U.S. District Judge Robert E. Jones, hearing arguments over the constitutionality of the government's evidence gathering, said the amount of electronic eavesdropping devoted to Hendricks was more befitting a large-scale drug ring than a suspected workers' compensation fraud.
"It's truly troubling the government would set up 1,000 hours of surveillance," Jones said.
Hendricks is charged with fraudulently obtaining $102,942 from early 2011 to the middle of last year while purporting that he was disabled.
During Friday's hearing, Hendricks said that the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs had given him a 90 percent disability rating – primarily for post-traumatic stress disorder, depression and anxiety, but also for knee and spine problems. He noted that he had been involved in motor vehicle accidents at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., and in Jordan.
Hendricks was honorably discharged from the military in early 2002 and later that year went to work for the U.S. Postal Service in Vancouver.
Eight years later, a government tow truck in which he was a passenger was struck by another vehicle. Hendricks filed a claim with the U.S. Department of Labor's Office of Workers' Compensation Programs, complaining of back pain and sciatica, and was awarded compensation of 75 percent of his regular pay (about $2,600 a month), according to the indictment.
On September 10, 2013, agents mailed Hendricks a notice under the letterhead of a fictional company – "Badger Recreation Promotions" – to let him know he and the guest of his choice had won a 10-hour deep-sea fishing expedition in Newport.
Hendricks took the bait, making his way to the central Oregon coast for the excursion, which lasted more than seven hours. The boat, as it happens, was loaded with undercover agents and hidden cameras.
"During the trip," the government alleged in its indictment, "Hendricks walked, stood, bent at the waist, knelt, and lifted objects both aboard the vessel and on dry land without apparent discomfort or abnormal limitations."
Hendricks' lawyer, Assistant Federal Public Defender C. Renee Manes, contends in a court filing that the government greatly exaggerated her client's activity during the deep-sea excursion.
"The reality is that Mr. Hendricks' participation in the fishing trip was far from 'able bodied,'" Manes wrote. In fact, she noted, a deckhand interviewed by the defense team confirmed that Hendricks spent most of the excursion in the cabin complaining of back pains and spasms so severe he threw up. Hendricks caught one fish.
Jones pointed out in court that the fish, a cod weighing no more than 5 pounds, scarcely offered the fight of a large salmon.
On Dec. 20, 2013, investigators sent Hendricks a letter by certified mail. The missive, under Postal Service letterhead, told him he was scheduled for a Jan. 7, 2014, appointment with a contract vocational rehabilitation specialist at a hotel near Portland International Airport.
An undercover agent, Jonathan Ulrich, posed as the specialist and asked Hendricks a series of questions about his capacity to perform other work for the Postal Service and to decide whether he deserved ongoing disability compensation, court records show. A team of agents and a technical officer secretly videotaped the 1 hour, 45 minute interview.
Hendricks filled out a questionnaire, noting that he considered himself "totally disabled" and indicated that he suffered from severe pain and could stand, sit and walk "as tolerated." He also said he could not kneel, squat, climb, bend, reach or drive.
Manes argued in court that statements made by Hendricks during the Jan. 7 interview should be suppressed, and that the government had the burden to prove that they were freely given.
"This was not a valid undercover operation," she said. "This is the government lying about who they were."
Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan W. Bounds described the methods, however sneaky, as legal and constitutional.
Jones said he would rule soon on whether he would suppress Hendricks' verbal and written statements.
-- Bryan Denson
503-294-7614; @Bryan_Denson


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In an apparent reversal, Ben Carson may decide to accept a position in President-elect Donald Trump's cabinet after all. Trump tweeted on Tuesday that he's "seriously considering" Carson for secretary of housing and urban development.
Last week Carson's spokesman, Armstrong Williams, announced that the former presidential candidate would decline a cabinet post because he lacks experience overseeing a large federal agency. Carson's name had been floating around as a possible candidate for secretary of health and human services.
Carson reiterated to the Washington Post that he prefers to advise Trump from outside the White House, adding the he "would be like a fish out of water" serving as a bureaucrat.
But, in his conversation with The Post, Carson left the door open: "I've said that if it came to a point where he absolutely needs me, I'd reconsider."
Following Trump's tweet, Williams told ABC News that Carson is thinking about the offer.
"Dr. Carson has tremendous respect for the president-elect and will always consider whatever request the president-elect makes of him," Williams told ABC News after Carson's met on Tuesday with Trump.
SOURCE: ABC News, Washington Post
We Buried The Hatchet, Carson Says Of Trump Endorsement
Minority Groups Meet With Trump, GOP Leaders To Urge Inclusiveness
Trump Entices Carson With HUD Secretary Post was originally published on newsone.com


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From Deadline:
Larry Wilmore and Issa Rae have teamed to co-write a comedy series project for HBO, with Rae set to star. The project focuses on the awkward experiences and racy tribulations of a modern day African-American woman. These are also themes Rae has tackled in her successful webseries, The Misadventures Of Awkward Black Girl. Wilmore will executive produce with 3 Arts, which manages both him and Rae, while Rae will co-executive produce.
Read more at Deadline.


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The Surrey casino: a story that just keeps on giving.
Just to try to keep on top of the developments, here's the chronology.
After two long nights of public hearings, Surrey council votes at 2 a.m. Saturday on whether to approve a casino licence. Tweeting reporters send out news of the votes one by one. It's 4-4 when Mayor Dianne Watts steps up and casts the deciding vote — against.
Energy Minister Rich Coleman lashes out the next day, saying he's lost confidence in Surrey council and its decision-making process.
B.C. Lottery Corporation CEO Michael Graydon, in an interview with me, says that he was disappointed to learn that Mayor Watts had concerns for months, as she never expressed those in any conversation with the corporation. He also says that something transpired in the last few days that he couldn't understand, but it was a complete change of direction from everything the corporation had been hearing from council for months.
Thursday, the mayor issued an open letter criticizing Graydon and Rich Coleman, who was getting his own bad press about having made calls to councillors during the process pressuring them to approve the casino, issued a much kinder, gentler statement about the Surrey decision. Both are attached below.
Dianne Watts:
Open Letter to BCLC
re: South Surrey Entertainment Complex
I feel compelled to address the inflammatory public comments that have been made by BCLC CEO Michael Graydon.
The statement that "something transpired in the last few days and I don't know what," implies that I acted irresponsibly. The only thing that transpired was public consultation. Mr. Graydon's comments show a complete disregard for the public process.
To state that he is "disappointed" in my actions and "if she truthfully had issues," is crossing a line that a regulator should not cross. I did not have any issues with Gateway or the proponent. I was concerned with the public opposition, which no one can "fix".
The facts are as follows:
1. A rezoning application came forward and I did not support 1st and 2nd reading.
2. On January 25, 2010, a public hearing occurred related to the site and the rezoning by-law in question, and the architect stated the development will be a 200 room hotel, including a restaurant. Council and the public were told:
"if the casino component does not receive a license then the convention centre would be expanded to support trade show and other such uses." Richard Holvert, Architect; Regular Council – Public Hearing Minutes. January 25, 2010.
I supported 3rd reading of the rezoning bylaw because there was little public concern raised at that public hearing, and I knew that before a casino use could be included on the site a separate Council approval process would be required, including a separate public hearing.
3. The developer, prior to the 2010 public hearing, stated:
"But, failing to get approval for a casino from B.C. Lottery Corporation won't be a deal-breaker… the hotel and convention centre would still proceed." Vancouver Province, October 4, 2009.
4. The Newton bingo facility has been located in Newton for several decades, and there was considerable public support in October 2009 when the slot machines were approved. In fact, 4,273 people were in favour and only 84 opposed the project. More than 17 community organizations spoke in support, including non-profit organizations, sporting and arts groups, businesses, and social service agencies.
I, along with Council, worked with the proponent to define a project that would have the best chance for success, and serve the residents of Surrey, as we moved forward to the public consultation component of the process. Our input was intended to assist the developer, but was not approval for the project because we are committed to public consultation prior to making decisions.
If, in fact, the CEO of BCLC expected this to be fully supported, then why bother going through with the public consultation process and a public hearing that continued for 13 hours? We must ensure that we have an open and transparent process where the Mayor and Councillors can make decisions and be supported, whichever side of the issue they are on.
Surrey Mayor Dianne Watts
And the minister:
Surrey gaming decision proves process works – Statement – January 24, 2013
VICTORIA – Minister Responsible for Gaming Rich Coleman has issued the following statement with regard to the recent Surrey gaming decision:
"I want to express my appreciation for the time and thoughtfulness Surrey City Council and the community as a whole took to examine the merits of the entertainment and gaming complex proposal and to be clear that I respect the final decision.
"Surrey Council exercised its responsibility on behalf of residents by conducting a thorough, open process that led to an independent decision. I can tell you from experience that these types of decisions are complicated and are not reached easily.
"We have never put a casino in any community that has not wanted one. That will continue to be the provincial government's policy.
"I am always open to discuss projects and answer questions for issues falling under my ministry, which is what I did in this case. That will not change.
"I respect Surrey Council's decision and want to personally thank them for taking the time to consider the opportunity."


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"Order of Worship" α
–RED TEXT indicates links to content with the exception of any prayers from The Worship Sourcebook.
Through prayer, let's draw near to our heavenly Father through His only Son Jesus Christ by the Holy Spirit, approaching the throne of grace with confidence that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need:
O God, you make us glad with the weekly remembrance of the glorious resurrection of your Son our Lord: Give us this day such blessing through our worship of you, that the week to come may be spent in your favor; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. (Morning Prayer II: Collect for Sundays — Book of Common Prayer 98)
Reading the Word – 1st CORINTHIANS 11 (LISTEN HERE)
From Bible Gateway:
11:1 Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.
On Covering the Head in Worship
2 I praise you for remembering me in everything and for holding to the traditions just as I passed them on to you. 3 But I want you to realize that the head of every man is Christ, and the head of the woman is man,[a] and the head of Christ is God. 4 Every man who prays or prophesies with his head covered dishonors his head. 5 But every woman who prays or prophesies with her head uncovered dishonors her head—it is the same as having her head shaved. 6 For if a woman does not cover her head, she might as well have her hair cut off; but if it is a disgrace for a woman to have her hair cut off or her head shaved, then she should cover her head.
7 A man ought not to cover his head,[b] since he is the image and glory of God; but woman is the glory of man. 8 For man did not come from woman, but woman from man; 9 neither was man created for woman, but woman for man. 10 It is for this reason that a woman ought to have authority over her own[c] head, because of the angels. 11 Nevertheless, in the Lord woman is not independent of man, nor is man independent of woman. 12 For as woman came from man, so also man is born of woman. But everything comes from God.
13 Judge for yourselves: Is it proper for a woman to pray to God with her head uncovered? 14 Does not the very nature of things teach you that if a man has long hair, it is a disgrace to him, 15 but that if a woman has long hair, it is her glory? For long hair is given to her as a covering. 16 If anyone wants to be contentious about this, we have no other practice—nor do the churches of God.
Correcting an Abuse of the Lord's Supper
17 In the following directives I have no praise for you, for your meetings do more harm than good. 18 In the first place, I hear that when you come together as a church, there are divisions among you, and to some extent I believe it. 19 No doubt there have to be differences among you to show which of you have God's approval. 20 So then, when you come together, it is not the Lord's Supper you eat, 21 for when you are eating, some of you go ahead with your own private suppers. As a result, one person remains hungry and another gets drunk. 22 Don't you have homes to eat and drink in? Or do you despise the church of God by humiliating those who have nothing? What shall I say to you? Shall I praise you? Certainly not in this matter!
23 For I received from the Lord what I also passed on to you: The Lord Jesus, on the night he was betrayed, took bread, 24 and when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, "This is my body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of me." 25 In the same way, after supper he took the cup, saying, "This cup is the new covenant in my blood; do this, whenever you drink it, in remembrance of me." 26 For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until he comes.
27 So then, whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of sinning against the body and blood of the Lord. 28 Everyone ought to examine themselves before they eat of the bread and drink from the cup. 29 For those who eat and drink without discerning the body of Christ eat and drink judgment on themselves. 30 That is why many among you are weak and sick, and a number of you have fallen asleep. 31 But if we were more discerning with regard to ourselves, we would not come under such judgment. 32 Nevertheless, when we are judged in this way by the Lord, we are being disciplined so that we will not be finally condemned with the world.
33 So then, my brothers and sisters, when you gather to eat, you should all eat together. 34 Anyone who is hungry should eat something at home, so that when you meet together it may not result in judgment.
And when I come I will give further directions.
- 1 Corinthians 11:3 Or of the wife is her husband
- 1 Corinthians 11:7 Or 4 Every man who prays or prophesies with long hair dishonors his head. 5 But every woman who prays or prophesies with no covering of hair dishonors her head—she is just like one of the "shorn women." 6 If a woman has no covering, let her be for now with short hair; but since it is a disgrace for a woman to have her hair shorn or shaved, she should grow it again. 7 A man ought not to have long hair
- 1 Corinthians 11:10 Or have a sign of authority on her
A period of silence may follow for reflection & recording insights.
- FEATURED VIDEO – To Go Deeper with 1st Corinthians (Bible Project – "Overview: 1 Corinthians"):
+For More Bible Study Videos (CLICK HERE), Discipleship Videos (HERE), & Church History/Theology (HERE & HERE)
As we spend time with God in prayer (Listening as well as offering up prayers of Adoration, Confession of Sin, Thanksgiving, Surrender, & Supplication), we might include in our praying:
+The Jesus Creed (see * below) and/or The Apostles' Creed (see ** below)
+The Lord's Prayer (Prayed, Used as a Guide, or Both; see *** below)
+Prayers for Ourselves, Our Families, the Church, & the World
* – "Hear, O Israel: the Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. The second is this: Love your neighbor as yourself. There is no commandment greater than these" (Mark 12:29-31, NIV 2011).
** – I believe in God the Father Almighty, maker of heaven and earth; And in Jesus Christ his only Son our Lord: who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, dead, and buried; the third day He rose from the dead; he ascended into heaven, and sitteth at the right hand of God the Father Almighty; from thence He shall come to judge the quick and the dead; I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic (universal) Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen. (United Methodist Hymnal 881)
*** – Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen. (United Methodist Hymnal 895)
α NOTE: The following "Order of Worship" is offered as a possible way into prayerful communion with the Triune God of the Bible and into earnestly listening for God's revelation of His nature, saving work, and will through the Scriptures. However, depending upon your time limitations, interests, and convictions, one can "pick and choose" what it will look like for him or her to seek God through disciplined engagement with Scripture ("Read") and Prayer ("Pray") with the goal of receiving and reflecting the love of God ("Love") every day of our lives ("Daily").
† = Reprinted by permission from The Worship Sourcebook, © 2004, Faith Alive Christian Resources.


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Wholesome Hamlet's Horror Sends a Jolt to the System
Review by A.O. Scott dez 29, 2009 at nytimes.com
The last shot of Michael Haneke's "White Ribbon" is haunting not because it sums up the unnerving, at times horrifying series of events that have filled up the previous 2 hours 25 minutes, but rather because it seems to unfold as if none of them have taken place. Taken alone, the film's final image might conjure a mood of gentle, pastoral nostalgia. Here, in glowing, understated black and white, we glimpse part of a world that used to be. The camera sits inside an austerely beautiful village church that is illuminated by winter morning sunlight, its pews filling with congregants whose dark clothes and weathered faces bespeak hardy old virtues of work, faith and family.
By now we know otherwise. The only comfort offered by "The White Ribbon," a chronicle of small-town German life on the eve of World War I, is that the social order it depicts has vanished from the earth. Good riddance to the good old days! But at the same time, Mr. Haneke may intend that sense of distance, of pastness, to be illusory, so that the strangeness of these people and their doings is shadowed by an uncomfortable sense of recognition. We fool ourselves if we think bygones are bygones. We're on a guilt trip down memory lane. And though the road twists and turns and reveals some pretty scenery, in the end we arrive in a familiar place, to be lectured and scolded by a filmmaker whose rich craft disguises the poverty of his ideas.
Our guide is the village schoolteacher, played on screen in his relative youth (by Christian Friedel) as an earnest, chubby-faced bumbler and in voice-over narration (by Ernst Jacobi) as a ruminative old man. This teacher, who like most of the adult characters in the film is not referred to by name, is by far the most benign if also the most ineffectual authority figure in a place that turns out to be a veritable theme park of patriarchal abuses.
The wholesome facade of this hamlet, with its tidy brick houses and wind-swept wheat fields, where residents tip their hats and address one another with unfailing formality, masks a carnival of cruelty. Children are beaten and molested. Women are silenced and humiliated. Workplace accidents claim the lives of innocent farmwives. Horses and house pets are maimed, cabbages are wantonly decapitated and the only force more fearsome than the brutality of fathers is the innocence of children.
Mr. Haneke, born in 1942 and perhaps the most lauded living European filmmaker with a surname other than Dardenne, traffics in shock and terror, but in a cerebral, systematic way. His films rarely foreshadow their jolts or speed up their plots to generate suspense, but rather proceed, with almost meditative calm, to weave a cocoon of dread around intimations of mystery and implications of violence.
"The White Ribbon," which won the Palme d'Or in Cannes and the top European Film Award this year, is a rare foray out of the clamor and anomie of modern urban Europe that is Mr. Haneke's favored setting. The film also marks his return to his native German after a decade of mainly French-language films. In it, he uses the sharp elegance of Christian Berger's monochrome cinematography (achieved by shooting in color, then draining it away), the grammatical precision of old-fashioned speech and the pageantry of period drama to lull and also to inflame the audience's expectations. The effect is something like a ghost story, the horror of which is at once elusive and pervasive. What is happening here? Why is it happening?
The answer to the first question: a lot of weird stuff. The town doctor (Rainer Bock) is injured when his horse trips over a wire strung across his gate, apparently for just that sinister purpose. That apparently inexplicable crime is followed by others, including the abduction and beating of one small child and the near blinding of another. There are whispers and denunciations, and visits from the police, but no solutions are forthcoming.
Instead, as suspicions multiply, we are led on a tour of several households, which taken together offer a sociological composite portrait of guilt and repression. The schoolteacher, whose courtship of a milky-fresh young woman named Eva (Leonie Benesch) provides hints of tender comedy, traffics mainly in rumors and surmises while the camera assumes a position of omniscience. (Unless, that is, it is the vehicle for the narrator's retroactive speculation or self-protecting deceit, which is not unthinkable.)
In due course we enter the homes of the Baron (Ulrich Tukur), the town's principal employer and landowner; the doctor, a widower with two children and an interesting relationship with the midwife (Susanne Lothar); the steward (Josef Bierbichler); a tenant farmer (Branko Samarovski); and, perhaps most important, the pastor (Burghart Klaussner).
Editors' Picks
Each of these men, with the partial exception of the poor farmer, represents a different face of power. And each one, accordingly, manifests his own special brand of awfulness, mistreating those close to him with methods appropriate to his station. The Baron is cold and sarcastic with his wife (Ursina Lardi). The steward beats his children in a state of volcanic rage, while the pastor does the same in a mood of pious sorrow.
Monstrous as these daddies are, their children may be worse. A gaggle of towheaded darlings walks through the film, their mild smiles so sinister that they might have wandered in from the 1960 British science-fiction horror chestnut "Village of the Damned." Anyone who has seen Mr. Haneke's "Cache" or his twin versions of "Funny Games" will be aware that he does not believe in the blamelessness of youth. Quite the contrary: children, in his world, carry the sins of their parents in concentrated, highly toxic form, and are also capable of a pure, motiveless, experimental evil.
What will become of these particular blond children, who are either demons or victims, driven to mischief by severe paternal discipline or so intrinsically bad that no punishment could suffice? Do the math: it's 1914. In 20 or 30 years, what do you suppose these children will be up to? Our narrator, well into old age, tells us that he is revisiting the strange events in the village to "clarify things that happened in our country" afterward.
But "The White Ribbon" does the opposite, mystifying the historical phenomenon it purports to investigate. Forget about Weimar inflation and the Treaty of Versailles and whatever else you may have learned in school: Nazism was caused by child abuse. Or maybe by the intrinsic sinfulness of human beings. "The White Ribbon" is a whodunit that offers a philosophically and aesthetically unsatisfying answer: everyone. Which is also to say: no one.
The teacher may be Mr. Haneke's obvious surrogate: an intellectual whose pursuit of the truth is enabled by his inability to change anything. But really the filmmaker is closer to the pastor, his chosen emblem of blindness and hypocrisy. After caning his children for a minor infraction, the pastor makes his oldest son (Leonard Proxauf) and daughter (Maria-Victoria Dragus) wear white ribbons, which serve both as emblems of shame and reminders of the purity of soul they are in danger of sacrificing. "The White Ribbon" is offered to its grateful, masochistic audience in a similarly punitive and yet oddly forgiving spirit, as a reminder of just how awful we are and how much worse we used to be.


text: Careers Career Paths Air and Space Expeditionary Force (AEF) Deployments Share PINTEREST Email Print Frank Rossoto Stocktrek / Getty Images Career Paths US Military Careers Technology Careers Sports Careers Sales Project Management Professional Writer Music Careers Media Legal Careers Government Careers Finance Careers Fiction Writing Careers Entertainment Careers Criminology Careers Book Publishing Aviation Animal Careers Advertising Learn More By Rod Powers Rod Powers Air Force NCO Academy Rod Powers was a retired Air Force First Sergeant with 22 years of active duty service. Learn about our Editorial Process Updated on 02/03/19 The Air Force has shifted to an air and space expeditionary force (AEF) structure to organize operations. This restructuring has returned the Air Force to its expeditionary roots and led to streamlining of the ways it organizes itself and presents its forces. An expeditionary military force by definition is one that can conduct military operations on short notice in response to crises, with forces tailored to achieve limited and clearly stated objectives. In plain language, the Air Force has taken their combat wings—Active Duty, Reserves, and National Guard— and assigned them to one of ten AEFs. How Deployments Work Here's a possible scenario. AEF No. 1 might be composed of F-15 or F-16 flying squadrons and maintenance or support squadrons from multiple bases throughout the United States, both active and reserve. When it's time for that AEF to deploy, personnel from all of these different squadrons, located at different bases, will all deploy as one large organization. Everyone knows in advance when their particular AEF deployment window is, based on what AEF their wing (or base) has been assigned. If a deployment is required within that window, the members of that AEF know they'll be the ones to go Ideally, this structure helps to eliminate most of the scenarios that led to "no-notice" deployments. As part of the AEF, a squadron commander will receive a unit task code (UTC) that tells him or her how many 3-level apprentice supply troops to deploy, how many 5-level technician supply troops to deploy, and how many 7-level supervisor supply troops are needed for the deployment. Readiness Ten deployable AEFs have been constituted. Two AEFs, trained to the task, are always deployed or on call to meet current national requirements, while the remaining forces train, exercise, and prepare for the full spectrum of operations. In addition, the Air Force maintains a total of five bomber group leads (BGL) to support the on-call AEFs, as well as on-call lead wings to open expeditionary bases. Rotation Cycle The rotation structure provides Air Force personnel a measure of predictability for their lives and stability for their training. Predictability also is key for traditional guardsmen and reservists who must balance military duties with full-time civilian employment. The 20-month AEF cycle includes periods of normal training, preparation, and on-call or deployment eligibility. The approximate 14-month normal training period concentrates on unit missions and basic proficiency events. The 2-month deployment preparation period focuses unit activities in the area of responsibility and specific events required for the 4-month on-call or deployment eligibility period that follows. Following the deployment or on-call period, units will enter into a major command (MAJCOM) defined recovery period. Personnel assigned to the BGLs are on the same 20-month cycle. Future Goals The ultimate goal of the Air Force is to make sure a given AEF will be able to deploy in 48 hours—fast enough to curb many crises before they escalate. According to Air Force Vision 2020, the Air Force will be able to rapidly deploy additional AEFs—up to five AEFs in 15 days. Information derived from Air Force Pamphlet 36-2241, Volume 1


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An employee's obligations towards his or her employer generally terminate when their employment relationship terminates, unless the parties specifically agree otherwise. For example, they may conclude a so-called non-compete agreement. Such an agreement may be made only for very weighty reasons that relate to an employer's operations or an employee's position. A non-compete agreement can be used to restrict an employee for entering into an employment contract with the employer's competitor or from directly engaging in competing activities.
A non-compete agreement might be appropriate when there is a genuine need for protection as a result of the employer's business or trade secrets or when the employer has arranged especially valuable training for the employee. In practice, the criteria are most often fulfilled when the departing employee has held a leading position in the employer's company.
A non-compete agreement might be appropriate, for example, where the employer is engaged in research and development and possesses knowledge and skills that its competitors generally do not. Non-compete agreements might also be justified where an employer company wants to protect the interests of its customers.
A non-compete agreement may restrict the employee's right to make a new employment contract with the employer's competitor or engage in competing activities for up to six months. If the employee is deemed to receive a reasonable compensation for the agreement, the period can last up to one year. An agreement restricting the employee for more than one year is in principle null and void after one year has elapsed. Likewise, if the employee is not paid any compensation, a non-compete agreement of more than six months becomes null and void after six months has elapsed.
A non-compete agreement may not impose a contractual penalty on the employee in excess of the amount of salary that employee has earned during the six months preceding termination. If there is no agreement relating to contractual penalties, the employee is obligated to pay the employer damages for the breach of the contract arising from tort law principles.
A non-compete agreement does not bind the employee if the employment contract is terminated for reasons attributable to the employer. For example, if an employer unlawfully terminates an employee's employment contract, the employee is released from the non-compete agreement.
In Finland, non-compete agreements are regulated in chapter 3, section 5 of the Em-ployment Contracts Act (55/2001) as follows:
"For a particularly weighty reason related to the operations of the employer in the employment relationship, an agreement made at the beginning of or during the employment relationship (agreement of non-competition) may limit the employee's right to conclude an employment contract on work to begin after the employment relationship has ceased with an employer which engages in operations competing with the first-mentioned employer, and also the employee's right to engage in such opera-tions on his or her own account.
In assessing the particular weight of the reason for instituting an agreement of non-competition, the criteria taken into account shall include the nature of the em-ployer's operations and the need for protection related to keeping a business or trade secret or to special training given to the employee by the employer, as well as the em-ployee's status and duties.
An agreement of non-competition may restrict the employee's right to conclude a new employment contract or to engage in the trade concerned for a maximum of six months. If the employee can be deemed to receive reasonable compensation for the restrictions imposed by the agreement of non-competition, a restriction period can be agreed on that extends over a maximum of one year. Instead of compensation for loss, the agreement may include a provision on contractual penalty, which shall not exceed the amount of pay received by the employee for the six months preceding the end of the employee's employment relationship.
An agreement of non-competition does not bind the employee if the employment relationship has been terminated for a reason deriving from the employer. What is provided above on restricting the duration of an agreement of non-competition and the maximum contractual penalty does not apply to employees who, in view of their duties and status, are deemed to be engaged in the direction of the enterprise, corpo-rate body or foundation or an independent part thereof or to have an independent status immediately comparable to such managerial duties.
A restraint of trade agreement shall be null and void in so far as it is contrary to what is provided above. In other respects, the provisions in the Contracts Act (228/1929, Legal Transactions Act) shall apply to the validity and mitigation of such agreements."


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Harlan County Beer Company
Brewery & restaurant in Harlan County, Kentucky the historic heart of Appalachia
Pitch Video
Investor Panel
Harlan KY
Wefunder means Wefunder Inc and its wholly owned subsidiaries: Wefunder Advisors LLC and Wefunder Portal LLC. This page is hosted by Wefunder Portal LLC.
Wefunder Portal LLC is a member of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA). Investing on Wefunder is risky. Don't invest more than you can afford to lose.


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At C1 Insurance, we vow to put our customers first every step of the way. Insurance is something everyone needs, so we think you should have the best options and the best experience.
Rooted in the state of Texas, C1 Insurance Group was developed around a singular focus: putting our clients first. We put you, our valued-customer, at the top and we're committed to always making decisions in your best interest. We believe doing so leads to great long-term partnerships and proves to serve us both well.
Whether you're a potential customer searching for a new auto, home, or life insurance provider, or perhaps a relator or mortgage banker hoping to build a reliable referral network with us, we're here to help.
Murrey is a co-founder of C1 Insurance Group and currently serves as President. He is passionate about bringing value to each customer by finding the right protection for their assets.
Stephen co-founded C1 Insurance Group in 2011 and has been instrumental in the growth of our client base, business development and forging institutional relationships with affiliate business partners.


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The Second Coming of Christ is not a peripheral doctrineChrist did truly rise again from death, and took again his body, with flesh, bones and all things appertaining to the perfection of man's nature; wherewith he ascended into heaven, and there sitteth until he return to judge all men at the last day.Article IV, The Thirty-Nine Articles
"O'er all those wide extended plains / Shines one eternal day;
"There God the Son forever reigns / And scatters night away."
Friday, September 19, 2014
"Until He return...at the last day"
From Ray Ortland today, "The Second Coming of Christ is not a peripheral doctrine." The painting Ortland uses is one of Doré's 19th century illustrations for the English Bible:
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As you know I have been practicing Femdom hypnosis since 1992. I often get asked about how effective it is and how long it takes. Those are all difficult questions to answer as there is no set time due to so many different variables! In all My years I have found that the most effective way to influence someone's mind is through conditioning and repetition. By conditioning I mean conditioning you to My voice, cadence, tone and suggestions. The first suggestions are the most important as they are the basis for all future hypnotic suggestions. Suggestions such as you must obey, you will obey, you will surrender, you will submit. Then based on that additional suggestions are added!
~NEW~ Mind Control Perfectly Programmed
It is natural to relax and listen to My voice as your subconscious opens to everything I say! It is peaceful and relaxing as you breathe and listen to My voice. Now you are conditioned to My voice. The snap of My fingers takes you deep. Deeper than you have ever gone before. When you are hypnotized you feel so submissive and relaxed. It feels natural to obey. It feels natural to be obedient. Hypnosis enhances those feeling of submission and servitude. Deepens those feelings of submission and servitude. You want to serve. You want to please. Trusting Goddess you just let go. Let go of all thoughts. Releasing your free will. Releasing your personal power.
Femdom Hypnosis Mind Control
Feeling so relaxed and in such a deep state of hypnosis your subconscious is completely open to Me. Open to every word. Open to every idea. Deeper and deeper I go into your mind. Implanting powerful suggestions as I penetrate your subconscious. It seems like the most natural thing in the world for Me to be in your mind. Forever.
It is time to take that final step. The final step that will release your free will and your personal power to Me. No more resistance. So cleansing. So refreshing. As I go deeper into your subconscious wiping away any thoughts that will impede My control of you and your mind. A clean sweep of your male ego, free will and personal power so that your surrender will be complete. My voice whispering to you at the end…your surrender is complete.
Mind Control Deeper and Deeper
This video features My seductive voice, elegant hand movements and cleavage front and center to hypnotize you. Using a countdown and taking you deeper as your eyelids get heavier and heavier until they are closed and you are in a deep state of hypnosis. I put you deep under, bring you back out and drop you back into hypnosis. Each time setting you up to go under deeper . My mind manipulation continues in this video ensuring you go deeper every time you hear My voice and I put you under.
My voice flows through your mind as I take you down deeper and deeper. It is time for Me to plant another hypnotic suggestion. This suggestion will be effective whether you are in a trance or not. It is so simple. It is so easy for Me to infiltrate your subconscious and implant My suggestion. Manipulating your mind and speaking directly to your subconscious I continue My Mind Manipulation by imprinting a suggestion so that your mind will immediately become blank!
Mind Control Deeper and Weaker
Taking you down with My seductive voice you feel your strength ebbing away. Every word I speak takes you deeper and makes you weaker. Unable to resist. Needing to surrender and submit. Craving My control as I take over your mind and body. Deeper and deeper as you get weaker and weaker. Featuring erotic hypnosis, Hypnosis Mind Control, Femdom hypnosis


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consult. design.
manufacture. install.
manufacture. install.
Acoustics Solutions. Simple. Effective.
Artworks Solutions is a multi-disciplinary, design-led manufacturer of bespoke branding, graphics and decorative solutions for the workplace environment. With over 20 years of experience of delivering projects to the UK's design and build sector we have the knowledge and expertise to get the job done on time and on budget.
In recent years acoustic treatment has become an increasingly important consideration for designers and architects when working on an interior scheme. Acoustics from Artworks is a suite of products developed to give designers and architects the tools to creatively incorporate a range of high performance acoustic materials in their projects with the greatest possible design flexibility. Our in-house fabrication facilities utilise state of the art CNC cutting and other specialist production processes including print, which sets Artworks apart from all other suppliers in our field.
Artworks turnkey solution offers you:
- In-house design and technical support
- Bespoke sample service
- Fast production turnaround
- Project management and installation
Acoustics from Artworks comprises a range of product solutions to improve noise levels and sound reverberation in the workplace, reducing distractions and helping businesses work more efficiently.
Discuss your project with us and we will advise you on the range of solutions available to meet your aesthetic and budgetary needs.
We offer a full design service tailored to your needs. We can develop your concept and help turn your ideas into reality, or simply assist your design team with drawing up detailed elevations or plans for sign off.
Our extensive and state-of-the-art production facility includes CNC cutting, printing and assembly. We are an unrivalled one-stop supplier, with the fastest turnaround in the industry.
When required we have a number of qualified installation teams available to professionally install our product solutions. All operatives carry CSCS, IPAF and PASMA cards.


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Hotel Digital Marketing & Distribution Blog
6 reasons your Revenue Manager rejects your Expedia campaigns
Last week I worked on a new campaign to launch on Expedia which I had estimated would bring incremental (net) revenue to our hotel. Once the topic came up for discussion my proposal was shot down by the Revenue Manager (RM) with the reasoning that "we can't take more...
Are Rising Acquisition Costs Fake News?
The debate of increasing online travel agency (OTA) commission for hotels has been around for years. But for some reason very little has been said about Sales & Marketing costs (S&M). How much more (or less) are hotels investing in S&M to drive revenue...
Are you ready to hand over your pricing strategy?
If you're in any way involved in your hotel's online distribution you've most likely come across Booking.com Basic by now. Through this programme, Booking.com pulls wholesaler rates to sell publicly on their platform. The programme is neither on an opt-in nor an...
How to debrand a hotel in 90 Days (and make more profit)
Most traditional hoteliers would think you lost your mind if you said you were going to debrand and become an independent hotel. "How will you survive without brand recognition and backing of the brand? No one will find or book you! You will never able to compete with...
How I became Mr. OTA
The first time I heard it was from a colleague in the office who overheard it in a strategy meeting in one of our hotels. The second time it was first-hand – A sarcastic comment from a GM along the lines of "So I prepare for Finance complaining about commission...
How Golf Saved My Hotel Market Share
In golf, a handicap is a numerical measure of a golfer's potential ability that levels the playing field for everyone and allows players at different levels to compete fairly against each other. With this in mind I finally came up with an explanation to our latest...
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Jens Egemalm
Avenue de l'Yser 8, 1040, Brussels, Belgium
+32 495 225 762
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What are ADU'S
The accessory dwelling unit, or ADU, is a typically smaller second home that has its own kitchen, bedroom and bathroom facilities, and is located inside, attached to, or close to an existing single-family house. Also known as an in-law suite, guesthouse, backyard cottage or granny flat, an ADU is any additional living unit on the lot of a single-family home.
Legally, an ADU is part of the same property as the main home, regardless of whether it is in the form of an apartment next to the garage, a basement apartment, or a free-standing home. An accessory dwelling unit must be owner occupied and unlike a condominium, it cannot be bought or sold separately.
Although they became less common in the middle of the 20th century, the popularity of ADUs is on the rise. This change comes as homeowners strive to make better use of existing land, and as over-developed areas search for ways to increase the availability of affordable housing options.
- It's easier than ever to build a secondary unit on your property. Local regulations have been passed to allow you to build an ADU that suits your needs and supports housing needs in your community.
- We're here to help you navigate the steps toward improving your property with an ADU.
Why You Should Consider An ADU
Take advantage of new laws that allow you to have more than one dwelling on your property.
Adding an ADU will immediately add value to your property, providing benefit now and in the future.
Build an ADU as a monthly rental for a new source of income (which will offset property taxes and mortgage obligation).
Why Work With UsAxiom ADU Provides Start-to-Finish ADU Services. We are a team of professionals with experience in creating exceptional home. We're experts in both luxury and budget and even luxury on a budget. That's why we're excited to offer ADUs as a smart investment. Our team includes sales, design, project management, project accounting, and construction. Axiom build holds a California general contractor license, with a licensed contractor and general manager on staff. We provide the services you'll need to make your ADU a reality. Berkeley is our home too, and we enjoy helping our customers build their dreams. Once your ADU is complete, we're here for any customizing or work that makes your ADU exactly what you desire and whatever your whole property needs.
How We Provide Start-to-Finish Services
We provide a report and a rough plan showing what's possible for your property. We specifically address the key determining factors in what ADU is feasible: local regulations and utility issues.
We'll work with local offices to determine what plans and reports are required you're your property. Plans vary by location and type of property and we can provide what's necessary. We'll also secure your building permit and help you place your ADU order.
We coordinate every step and provide all the services required to prep your site, build the foundation, and prepare utilities to receive your ADU.
We can help you match your ADU to your existing home, add design features, decks and other features to make your ADU unique, tailor it to your needs, and add value to your property.
The new laws making your ADU possible are designed to help ease the rental problems in Sonoma County. By creating an ADU for your property, you're creating a home for someone in your community who needs it.


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Lets stay with Yamazaki and Suntory for a while and have a look at a more younger version that is bottled in the vintage malt series. I would guess that it is cask strength, but both versions, the 2004 and the 2005 are precisely 56%. Coincidence or design? The version reviewed here is the 1991 bottled in 2005. The picture below is for the 2004 version, but both look the same. Now we can finally see how a cask strength japanese whisky will be, since I always claimed Japanese whiskies do need their strength, since I feel the reduced versions strike me as watery.
Color: Gold
Nose: Peaty clay. Musty, but also fresh. Radiant wood. Rotting leaves. Just the right spices. Salty grass, dry grass (not hay). Bonfire, fresh smoke. Yes it's fruity too. Peach. Candy like sour fruityness. Very special.
Taste: Spicy, smoky and half sweet. Hardly any upfront peat here, at least not as much as expected. Licorice with clay.Fruity, just more pineapple than peach. Also the grassy notes emerge here too. Otherwise it's clean and not overly complex. Warming. Ah, there is the peat, it comes very late in the finish. Welcome. Just a tad of imbalance in the finish though. The sour elements are fighting the sweets and they don't go together well, because of the peat. Not an elegant Yamazaki this is, more rough around the edges. Likeable, but has it's flaws taste-wise.
This smells like a Brora! It's unbelievable, but in Japan they know how to make a whisky that smells like a Brora now! Isn't this a hidden secret! Keep this in mind when going into a blind tasting… Just two big let-downs. The taste is a simple Brora at best and they charge as much for these kinds of Yamazaki as they do for a Brora. Bummer! Still, well done Suntory.
Points: 87


text: Figure 1 L CoP Definition and Purpose Published by Clarissa Sorensen-Unruh Learning/Teaching Enthusiast. Intro Chem, Gen Chem, & Organic Chem Prof at CNM Community College. #ChemEd Researcher. Statistics MS & Learning Sciences PhD student at UNM. #LGTBQi. Editor of "Communicating Chemistry Through Social Media" View all posts by Clarissa Sorensen-Unruh


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The 10th Annual Cargo Equipment Experts, CEE, Membership Conference was be held in the ACHAT Plaza City-Bremen Hotel in Germany on May 20, 2019 conveniently one day before opening of the Breakbulk Europe 2019 Exhibition in the same city. The conference was conducted together with Priority Cargo Network members and invited guests as done during the previous years.
Member presentations and discussions about the past, present and future of the networks and about the market outlook contributed to a fruitful meeting. The attending members of both networks voted for the 2020 membership conference to be in Bremen again, a day ahead of the Breakbulk Exhibition opening next year.
A change in the members elected Board of Advisors (BoA) for the CEE network saw Mr. Rudiger Glanzel, Direct Intercontinental, Brazil and Mr. Carlos Guimet, Multitrade Spain elected for the next year to the BoA. They join Mr. Kai-Stefan Vogel, SAL Heavylift, Germany and Mr. Sergey A. Ovsienko, Beluga Projects, Russia for this task.
After the conference and member-to-member meetings the group enjoyed a guided tour through the Beck's Beer Brewery. A dinner onboard the Alexander von Humboldt sailing ship on the river Weser concluded the day.
CEE was represented in the Breakbulk Europe 2019 Exhibition at the Quality Cargo Networks (QCN) booth, together with the Worldwide Project Consortium (WWPC) and Priority Cargo Network. Heavy Cargo News Magazine, featuring our members achievements, was distributed in all visitors bags of the Breakbulk Exhibition.


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An International Launch Systems (ILS) Proton-M rocket lifted off its pad in Baikonur Kazakhstan yesterday at 11:38 AM Phoenix time (1838 UTC). There have been almost 400 launches of the Proton system since 1965.
Nine hours after launch, the Briz-M upper stage delivered the satellite to Geostationary Orbit.
Originally scheduled for launch last December, it was postponed due to an upper stage problem. Then, in June, an out of tolerance telemetry reading for a first stage sub-assembly eventually forced the vehicle off the pad and back to the processing hall for extensive testing.
Satellite Services (SESthe ) owns SES-5, which is equipped with 24 C-band transponders and 36 Ku-band transponders.
This 6,000 Kg communications satellite will be stationed at five degrees East, and provide Ku-band capacity for Africa and Nordic and Baltic countries. The C-band coverage is for Africa and the Middle East. It has an expected lifetime of 15 years.
SES-5, built by Space Systems/Loral, will also carry the first hosted L-band payload for the European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service (EGNOS). The EGNOS payload, which was developed by the European Space Agency (ESA) and the European Commission (EC), will help verify, improve, and report on the reliability and accuracy of navigation positioning signals in Europe.