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As The World Turns
Fan Event Pages
ATWT Fan Event
2003 ATWT Luncheon Description
NOTE: We are currently missing
the larger versions of these pics...sorry!
By Loretta
I was fortunate to have attended the annual As the World Turns Fan Club
luncheon this past Saturday on April 12th. Sorry this took so long for me
write up, but I had to go back to work a few hours after my flight landed
back home.
Hope you guys enjoy this! (click on the thumbnails to see the full picture)
On Thursday morning my friend Lauraine and I departed McCarran
Airport for JFK in NYC. Our flight immediately left at 1:20 am. It was a
bumpy flight, but nothing that a glass of wine wouldn't take care of! We
arrived at our hotel around 11:am. We stayed at NYC's elegant Marriott
Marquis Hotel (where the luncheon was held) located in the heart of the
city's neon jungle, Times Square. After we checked in, I first made a stop
Starbucks (visit #1) for a cup of coffee. Luckily for me, there is a
Starbucks right inside the Marriott Marquis Hotel. After watching As the
World Turns in our room, Lauraine and I managed a nap, which we really
after flying all night. Thursday night we took it easy and walked around
Times Square, had dinner at Maxim's Deli, then strolled up to St.
Cathedral and Rockefeller Center. This was Lauraine's first NYC trip so
was fun to show her around, since I've been there other times.
Friday morning started out with me making my morning trip to Starbucks
#2). At noon Lauraine and I braved the rain and left for the Manhattan
Co. restaurant to meet other fans from an As the World Turns message
It was fun to finally put names and faces with the user ID names one uses
a message board! We took pictures and got to know one another. These
a lovely group of people and I cherish the new friends I made this day.
Spending a few hours with these people was like being with family. After
lunch, all of us trotted back to the Marriott Marquis to watch As the
Turns together. Watching ATWT along with other fans is quite an unusual
fun experience!
After Friday's ATWT episode ended at 3pm, Lauraine and I headed for New
Jersey to visit my aunt and my cousins in Hillsborough, located one hour
NYC. This was a lovely visit and my family just adored my friend
We got back to our hotel around 9:30 pm, so Lauraine and I roamed around
Times Square again, managing another visit to Starbucks (visit #3) and a
pastry shop.
I greeted this rainy Saturday morning with another trip to Starbucks
#4). Since Lauraine does not watch ATWT, she left to visit a flea market
near 26th and 6th Street while I headed for the fan club luncheon.
The luncheon was held in the hotel's Westside Ballroom on the 5th floor.
11:00 am the doors opened. We were first given name tags to wear, which
allowed us inside the ballroom. Before the luncheon officially started,
could do a little ATWT shopping, since there were many items for sale,
black and white 8x10 cast photos (some never before seen, at least by me),
ATWT coffee mugs and totes. You could purchase raffle tickets to win some
clothing items worn by the stars like Marshall Travers' tan rain coat, a
Molly blouse and copies of The Intruder Magazine (which featured color
each of Marshall T. Travers and Jessica Griffin).
I soon met up with several of my new friends from the message board, among
them was dear Roger who had made Mitzi Sticks (like Pixie Sticks) for us
hold up when Ann Sayre was introduced. This was a stick similar to a
which held a face sized color photo of Ms. Sayre. Thank you Roger!
Noon arrived and we headed to our tables. I was assigned to table number
towards the back. Lunch was speedily served starting out with chicken, a
potato casserole (I think) and fruit. Dessert soon followed. Lunch was
delicious and the staff courteous.
At 1:pm, it was time for the ATWT cast to be introduced to the stage.
Martha Byrne was introduced; she was followed by Michael Park, Terri
Colombino, Mark Collier and Scott Holroyd, who acted out scenes from recent
ATWT episodes with a few lucky members from the audience who won this
prize. The raffle winners were given scripts to read along with their
partner, which was either Michael, Terri, Mark, Martha or Scott. This
was so much fun to watch.
(Peter Parros)
Around 1:30 the stars were each introduced and they walked on stage. Lots
the cast showed up: Martha Byrne (who besides dealing with laryngitis, was
terribly sick, so she had to leave early), Terri Colombino, Mark Collier,
Trent Dawson, Ann Sayre, Ellen Dolan, Eileen Fulton, Brett Groneman
Napiera Danielle Groves, Don Hastings (looking distinguished in a suit and
tie), Helen Wagner (who also had to leave early), Jon Hensley, Kelley
Menighan Hensley, Anthony Herrera, Scott Holroyd, Colleen Zenk-Pinter,
Elizabeth Hubbard, Christopher Tavani, Lesli Kay, Grayson McCouch, Paul
Korver, Craig Lawlor (Adam), Peyton List, Cady McClain, Michael Park,
Chase (Chris), Lammon Rucker, Peter Parros, Tamara Tunie, Jessica Dunphy,
Alan White. The cast was greeted with wild cheers and many received
ovations (like Helen Wagner).
After the stars made their way to their assigned tables to meet their
my friend and I searched to see what stars were at what table. Two stars
were seated at each table, with a sign above them stating the star's name
character they played on the show. Since the lines were so long,
obviously I
first had to head to my favorites. We immediately got in line to meet
Anthony Herrera (James Stenbeck). Anthony was seated with Elizabeth
(Lucinda Walsh). I had brought along with me some photos of Anthony
portraying James Stenbeck from the early 1980's (many were with Colleen
from various storylines). Anthony loved looking at these and told me to
sure Colleen Zenk Pinter also got a look at them. Anthony (dressed to
in a blue suit and tie) was so sweet and kind, and you could sense that he
possesses a hint of the mischievous side of the James Stenbeck character
portrays. We chatted a little and he graciously posed for three pictures
with me! Anthony was definitely a hit with the ladies there!
We next headed across the room to Jon and Kelly Hensley, who were also
gracious. Jon was very polite and even more handsome in person, and Kelly
porcelain skin! I was telling Kelly the difference between her and
Melanie Smith's (the former Emily) portrayal of Emily Stewart and how each
them brought new elements to the character. I told Kelly how I loved
Emily-Rose-Carly friendship and she agreed.
Dunphy & Chase, with Loretta
Next I met Jessica Dunphy, who was seated with Bailey Chase. I
Bailey on the way he plays Chris Hughes and how I felt he "acts like a
Hughes," meaning he portrays Chris as a nice, caring, and gentle person. I
wished Bailey good luck with his new role. Jessica Dunphy is a doll and
definitely unlike Alison Stewart. I complimented her on her fine acting
Jessica explained that she loves going to work since her co-workers are a
to work with. I told Jessica that even though you want to strangle the
Alison she portrays, there are also times you just want to take care of
like when her teddy bear got taken away by her nasty jail roommates!
is such a sweetie and so beautiful!
My friend and I then made a right to stand in Michael Park's line, which
incredibly long. I stood in line for about 15 minutes. Noticing how
long the line to meet Scott Holroyd and Colleen Zenk Pinter's was, I
my friend (sorry Bill!) and headed for their line. I've admired Colleen's
work for so long that I could not leave without meeting her. After about
half an hour of standing in line, I was then at their table. Scott has
a golden gorgeous face, but he is also such a polite young man! I told
that I hated to see him leave the show, as I loved his portrayal of Paul
Stenbeck; since I feel he manages to bring out Paul's qualities (good and
which he inherited from his parents (James and Barbara). Next, I turned
around for Colleen, who has quite a sense of humor and seemed to love
discussing her Barbara Ryan character. Like I did with Anthony Herrera, I
shared my photos with Colleen (of her as Barbara in various storylines
1980 through 1982). Colleen loved looking at these and explained to me
each photo was taken and the story line it was from, etc. We discussed
Barbara's early storylines as well as the previous days episode where
tries to beat the doggie door open! Colleen is a doll and she made sure
got several (like four!) pictures with her and Scott. Colleen is of
drop-dead gorgeous in person.
Trent Dawson was seated with Ann Sayre. Trent in person has quite a
sense of humor! Ann and I chatted about her Mitzi character she portrays.
told Ann I always felt that Jack would be a good match for Mitzi and she
several fans have also indicated this opinion to her. Ann was a doll and
has perfect skin! I managed to get a picture with both Ann and Trent, and
Ann even signed my Mitzi Stick for me.
When the luncheon ended at 4:pm, most of the stars had to leave, but a few
stayed on to make sure their fans got to meet them. Lammon Rucker stayed
past 4:pm. I made it to Lammon's table. Lammon was seated with the
who portrays District Attorney Evelyn on ATWT, and I sincerely apologize
I cannot remember her name (she is lovely in person). I told Lammon I
adored his Marshall T. Travers. Besides being so handsome, Lammon is the
sweetest man and so kind to his fans.
Napiera Danielle Groves was sitting near Lammon and she is totally lovely
every sense! Unfortunately I could not get a chance to meet her.
Groves & fan
The stars were incredible! My only complaint was that the lines to meet
favorites were so very long, which made it impossible to meet everyone who
Saturday afternoon the rain turned to a lovely blue sky and higher
temperatures. Lauraine and I took the subway to Greenwich Village. We
browsed through SoHo and made some great purchases, especially jewelry.
ate dinner at Da Nico in Little Italy and bought some pastry at Ferrera's
Bakery. We splurged and took a cab back to our hotel and with the way our
driver dashed down Broadway, we managed to get back in one piece.
Sunday, a gorgeous sunny day found Lauraine and I checking out of our
After checking our bags in with the bell-hop, we strolled down to Madison
Ave. and bought lunch at a grocery store, which we ate in Central Park,
is lovely during this time of year, since many cherry blossom trees were
A shuttle picked us up at 3pm and delivered us to JFK, where our smooth
departed at 6:40pm right on schedule. We landed back at McCarran
International at 9:pm and Lauraine and I said our goodbyes. I want to
thank all the lovely people I met for making this weekend so special! You
guys who know who you are, are the best!
More pics from the event!
Page updated 8/20/14
Back to the ATWT Fan Events Page
Back to the Main


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I am thrilled to announce the recent release of our latest project, a birding tour website for High Lonesome BirdTours.
The challenge was to transition the owner's website from a poorly organized, visually ineffective website built on an open source framework called CMS Made Simple to an organized, visually appealing site with high search engine value. Most of all, the owner wanted his customers to easily find his site when searching for birding tours on Google, and easily navigate to make a purchase. Our previous work on a different birding tour site had impressed our client enough to make an inquiry. Our "professionalism" during the proposal process impressed sealed the deal, even though our price was "a bit higher" than other quotes.
We implemented a customized WordPress solution utilizing custom post types to design each custom tour detail page. A great deal of content strategy went into the information layout. We did our best to interpret a typical customer's mindset as he/she lands on the home page and tries to find an ideal destination to travel to. We took into account that a motivated customer may wish to find a specific tour by region (e.g. "I'm seeking a tour to Alaska!") or find a tour during a specific time span ("I need a birding tour in April of next year!"). But we also tried to appeal to the casual dreamer who stumbles upon the site and surfs from region to region until his/her interest is sparked (note to self: visuals matter a lot to dreamers).
We took into account that some users are visual learners while others ignore images to read only text. Because I've done quite a bit of birding travel myself, I realize how information hungry birders are. So it was just as important to provide quick overviews as it was to provide easy access to detailed itineraries and trip planning information.
Each tour page provides an overview, details, full itinerary, downloadable itinerary, info on accommodations, top birds and mammals lists, habitats covered, as well as trip reports and travel planning suggestions (recommended readings, clothing and gear, and other attractions). Luckily, most of this information was available in some form or another on the former website, though it took considerable effort to move it over into its new format.
Another notable addition is a shopping cart that keeps track of the number of spaces left on each tour – to avoid booking too many people on these small-group tours. Custom forms were built to court the user through the booking process, culminating in a Make Payment page that lets the user make a deposit either via check or online via Paypal.
We are thrilled with the results but even more so, the process of working with our client, who allowed us to "get into his business" and solve problems unique to his company and the tour shopping process.
Nothing interests us more than solving problems – and we never lose sight of the fact that every problem we solve must have positive implications for the client's business (or it's not worth solving) and have respect for his work flow.
Better yet, our client seems happy, too:
"I asked Laura Kammermeier and her group, My Digital Nature, to help me build a new website after mine became outdated. We started working together in August and, this month, we were able to launch the new site. I'm extremely happy with the results. The site is professional and user-friendly, exactly what I wanted. Laura was highly responsive and helpful. She was always available to answer questions and work through problems. I can highly recommend Laura and her group, without reservations." — Forrest Davis, owner, High Lonesome BirdTours.
BUT DID THE SITE IMPROVE BUSINESS? Time will tell but here's a good indicator: within one week the site crawled up in the Google search engine results from oblivion (not within the first 20 pages of search results) to page 2, #7. Impressive what a SEO-friendly platform, sound content strategy, and smart implementation will do.
P.S. Special and abiding thanks to those that helped make this project possible: Bill Klingensmith (mydarndest.com) for custom design and coding; Sean Koch for content entry; Stina Kennedy for logo and design work.

subset: commoncrawl


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Doe hired A Florida Law Firm to handle an insurance claim against an insurance company. After the insurance claim was filed, Doe's insurance company became insolvent. The Florida Law Firm failed to timely file a lawsuit for Doe's claim. Lawlor, White & Murphey litigated Doe's claim concurrently in multiple courts. After a multi-day mediation involving numerous claimants against the Florida Law Firm, the case settled for a global settlement with a confidentiality agreement. This case exemplifies how Lawlor, White & Murphey is able to successfully represent clients in complex legal matters involving multiple actions pending in different courts.
Ms. P was injured in an automobile accident in 2001. After her accident, Ms. P hired Attorney David Rowe to represent her. Mr. Rowe filed a lawsuit in 2004 on her behalf but failed to prosecute the suit. In December of 2005, the trial court dismissed Ms. P's lawsuit for failure to prosecute after issuing a notice of the impending dismissal. Mr. Rowe failed to take appropriate action to protect Ms. P's claims. Instead, Mr. Rowe refilled the lawsuit in August of 2007, not realizing that the statute of limitations had already run on Ms. P's claims. For unknown reasons, the defense attorney did not notice the statute of limitations had run and answered the lawsuit. Amazingly, Mr. Rowe failed to prosecute the second lawsuit just as he had the first one. The trial court dismissed the second lawsuit for failure to prosecute after issuing a notice of impending dismissal. The case settled for a confidential amount at mediation.
Lawyers failed to Protect Client's Intellectual Property
A law firm was hired to protect a client's intellectual property. The law firm failed to take the time to fully understand the client's creation and to properly advise the client on how to best protect it. The law firm drafted documents that failed to provide the client with the greatest protection, and when a competitor brought a similar creation to market the client discovered the error made by the lawyers. The lawyers denied any wrongdoing and claimed too much time had passed to hold them responsible. The case settled for a confidential amount.
Lawyers Failed to Analyze Documents and Law Correctly. A client was involved in multiple legal disputes and wanted to protect some assets. She hired a law firm to review several complex financial documents. The lawyer told the client he knew how to accomplish her goal quickly. The lawyer filed a lawsuit that was dismissed. Instead of learning from that mistake, the lawyer filed the lawsuit again. The lawyer's plan of action was contrary to clearly established law. The lawsuit failed to accomplish the client's goal and caused the client to pay a large attorney's fee to the institution that was sued. As a final insult, the lawyer claimed the client owed him money for the bad advice. The case settled for a confidential amount.


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CertifiQ Network is the first international service and online platform for the automation of the digital issuing of certificates, diplomas, awards, titles, with international legal recognition. It builds an integrated ecosystem that joins issuing institutions, document holders and the general community in an unique platform for the issuing, management and trustworthy share of qualifications, competencies and credentials.
Building this project from scratch I was responsible for the conception, concept validation and development, market analysis, business plan, strategy and business and commercial roll-out and partnerships.


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High School4624 Salina Street
Pulaski, NY 13142
Phone: (315) 298-5103
Michael Bateson, Principal
Middle School4624 Salina Street
Pulaski, NY 13142
Phone: (315) 298-6001
Patrick Vrooman, Principal
Elementary School2 Hinman Road
Pulaski, NY 13142
Phone: (315) 298-2412
Joelle Hendry, Principal
At Lura M. Sharp, we value, support, and strive each and every day towards excellence.
What does that mean to us? What principles guide our decision-making?
1) We value each other.
We encourage everyone's input and recognize each other's contribution to the team's success.
2) We support each other.
We promote collaboration, cooperating, and planning. We make team decisions with the end in mind.
3) We strive for continuous improvement.
We adopt and live with a growth mindset. Whatever it takes.


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How to Cure an Infection in a Belly Button Piercing
A belly button piercing, also referred to as a navel piercing, is a popular type of body ornamentation. The body piercing heals relatively quickly, comparable to the time it takes for an ear piercing to heal. However, if you fail to clean the piercing properly or immerse your body in water soon after getting a piercing, your belly button piercing could get infected. Infection is marked by swelling, redness and, sometimes, yellow-greenish pus.
Keep the jewelry in. No matter how sore your infected belly button piercing is, you should never remove the ring. Piercings that fail to heal close up extremely fast, and you might not be able to reinsert the ring. If your piercing does close, it could result in an under-skin infection called an abscess.
Make a saltwater solution and add two drops of peroxide. Pushing up your belly button piercing, clean the ring with a Q-tip with the saltwater solution. Remember to avoid getting the solution into the piercing because the saltwater will dry out the piercing.
Take a hot shower and rotate the ring side to side and up and down to remove any bacterial buildup. While still in the shower, gently clean the pierced area with mild soap.
Dry the piercing by gently patting it with a paper towel. Lightly apply antibiotic ointment to the infected area and let it soak in.
Remember to wash your hands thoroughly before cleaning or touching the piercing.
Avoid cloth material when cleaning your piercing. Cloth can harbor bacteria and snag on jewelry, causing injury.
Photo Credits
- OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA image by Ann-Christin Reinholz from Fotolia.com


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Scarring and Plastic Surgery
You will have scars. I didn't really give it much thought before the surgery, but the scars on my right foot, 6 months since surgery, are pretty ugly. I'm told it takes a year for the scar to completely "settle".
I wonder how a doctor might feel if asked to do a plastic surgery type of closure? Or to get a plastic surgeon to do the final closures? (It's a special kind of wound closure that results in a finer scar.) I don't know if they would even allow it, but if you think you are going to be upset by the fact that you may have a big red welt on your foot, it might be worth a conversation. (I would think it's easier to have a plastics doc close up the original incision than have scar revision surgery later?) Surely it would be easier on the patient, physically, but I have to guess that with the healthcare situation in the U.S., it would get a little hairy insurance-wise. But, I'm not a doctor, not an insurance agent, and I am only surmising.


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A bold, bright, red "F" scrawled hauntingly on top of my test paper.
The shame and horror burned its way through my heart to the bedrock of my being and began to pour a toxic foundation of lies.
"You won't amount to anything!"
"You're worthless."
I see that same look of shame and horror I had when I received my "F" on the faces of kids every week when they walk in to our after school program – BLAST. The toxic lies painted across their cheeks and drawing shadows around their eyes. Some of them have engaged the lies so fully that they even speak it to themselves:
"I'm stupid."
"I can't do this."
And why wouldn't they believe it? In most cases, society has written them off completely before they even reach the third grade…


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Well done to all the swimmers that participated in this year's club championship event.
A full list of all the results is available here.
Well done to all the swimmers that participated in this year's club championship event.
A full list of all the results is available here.
Based on her success at last season's ASA National Age Group Championships, Lucy Armitage has been invited to attend an England Talent Programmes Development Day in November. These development days form the first stage of the swimmer pathway for swimmers in England and many swimmers have gone through the stages on the England Talent Programme and onto International success. This is a huge and well deserved selection and a reflection of her hard work. Well done!!
Huge congratulations to Kate Grindley after she has been named the West Midlands Regional Aquaforce Awards winner for 'Young Volunteer of the Year'!!!! This is a thoroughly deserved award after her years of coaching and hard volunteer work on poolside with the junior swimmers and junior league team. She received her award on the 20th September and will now go onto receive nomination for the National Young Volunteer of the Year Award, the winner of which will be announced in October.
Will Slawson and Ffion Butler have both been selected onto the AASE (Advanced Apprenticeship in Sporting Excellence) programme. This is a nationally recognised programme that provides the selected athletes, who are from a wide range of sports, with an NVQ at the end of the 2 year programme. Our swimmers have been invited onto it based on their continued sporting dedication and achievements on a National level. Well done to both.
Tom Piggott and Reilly Shanahan have both been invited to join the Home Nations Talent Programme for Wales. This is based upon the big improvements they both made over the last season in their training commitments and racing performances. They will now receive additional support from the Welsh ASA Disability team in the pursuit of their future goals to realise their full potential. Congratulations to both boys.
Reilly Shanahan and Ffion Butler were both selected to represent the Wales team in this year's UK Games. These games are for athletes across a range of sports and are to meant to replicate a major multi-sport event to give them experience in an event of this nature with, 8 teams making up the events from the 4 areas of England, 2 areas of Scotland plus Welsh and Irish teams. Reilly swam 3 races, equalling his recently set PBs in 2 of them and posting a new best time in the 3rd. Ffion also swam 3 events posting sizeable new best times in all 3 and winning Silver in the 50m Free and 100m Back plus Bronze in the 100m Fly. Well done to both!
Could all swimmers who won trophies last year please engrave them and return to Lawson or Claire Goodall as soon as possible. Thanks.


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Yes, I'm still alive and, yes, I'm still going through my inbox
First thing's first: sorry this is waaaay late getting up.
Between me and Mrs. Deebs tearing down and rebuilding our deck, plus all of my duties as StarPhoenix online editor — namely getting our 2007 provincial election website up and running, plus keeping the main page and also all of our other sites up to date — I've been stretched so skinny, I can now do push-ups under a door.
That said, I'm still in one piece and I'm still emptying out the inbox, as promised:
– From Nicole, after my revenge-inspired blog from last week: "I have a friend from University that is the official 'Queen of Revenge' in our group. When she was in high school her boyfriend cheated on her, so she told the school guidance counselor that he has gonorrhea and was purposefully trying to infect the girls in her class. They called him and his parents in for a little meeting with the public health nurse!"
DD: Example No. 751 of why you don't mess with women.
– From Ben: "Talk about payback without talking about Payback? Starring Mel Gibson before he went all Hitler on everyone. 'Not many men know what their life's worth is. I do. Seventy grand. That's what they took from me. That's what I was going to get back.' Great line and great movie."
DD: Fantastic choice from Ben. In fact, this is one of the most underrated movies from the 1990s. Whenever this comes on, I almost always find myself stopping and watching it to the end.
– From Sarah: "You're a fan of The Hills, so when it comes to revenge, you gotta admit that Heidi and Spencer leaking Lauren and Jason's sex tape was some good payback. Lauren was a total bitch to Heidi, but Lauren comes out looking like the good girl? Look at how she was to Audrina in Vegas over Justin Bobby. She does that all the time, so you can't just say that it was because of Spencer. Lauren is just like that. It's not fair that Heidi gets the bad rep."
DD: Yes and no. If it was indeed those two who leaked the tape (and not Brody Jenner), then they definitely caused Lauren a few headaches and would be some pretty good revenge. But for me, it's a question of whether or not payback was warranted, and I don't think Lauren did anything wrong. If Heidi had any kind of backbone, and wasn't so easily manipulated by Spencer, she and Lauren would still be friends. All the problems root back to Spencer, who will do anything to make sure his 15 minutes of fame don't end one second too soon. Heidi allowed him to put an end to her friendship with Lauren. (Speaking of The Hills, I was more than a little puzzled over the cover story in the new US Weekly, where Heidi is showing off her 'revenge plastic surgery.' Don't you have to have something that people would be jealous of to make it revenge surgery? 'Screw you guys. I'm in a relationship with a complete a-hole, I have no friends anymore, and the one quality I'm most proud of can be bought by anyone with a few thousand dollars.' Way to show them, Heidi.)
– From Eddy: "A story on revenge has to have Gladiator, the ultimate comeback movie."
DD: Another obvious one that got overlooked. Let's see — Maximus's wife was murdered and possibly raped. His child was also murdered. Their family home was plundered. After his father figure was murdered, Maximus was ordered to be executed by Commodus, a power-hungry new ruler (who came into power by killing Maximus's father figure, and the man who happened to be his own father). Maximus was sold into slavery. He fought for his life. His long-time assistant was murdered by Commodus's men. He was shanked moments before getting his showdown with Commodus. Yeah, I can see why he might have been ticked off. Despite it all, Maximus got his revenge. (And the movie won the Oscar for best picture, to boot.) Can't believe I forgot this one.
– From Dylan: "The three most overrated things on the planet right now — Tom Brady and the New England Patriots, Dane Cook and Private Practice. The Pats will fall apart when it matters – Randy Moss is a time bomb – but you (and everyone else) thinks they're perfect, Dane Cook's movies are as funny as a colonoscopy and Private Practice won't last the season. I can't wait until it's cancelled so my girlfriend won't make me watch it anymore."
DD: Two out of three ain't bad, Dylan. (1) Dane Cook is legitimately one of the biggest comedians in America, but he just hasn't been able to translate that to the big screen. Maybe if he chose better material than Good Luck Chuck or Employee of the Month, the results would be different. I'm curious to see how he does with Steve Carell and Juliette Binoche in Dan In Real Life; (2) If Private Practice didn't have the Grey's Anatomy tie-in, it would be on life-support, but since ABC has put so much time, effort and money into it, it'll be given at least one or two full seasons. The one thing that gets me: virtually every character is so over-the-top crazy. Even Kate Walsh's character, which was a pretty strong one in Grey's Anatomy, has become totally weak and neurotic. More of a middle ground would do the show some good; (3) New England isn't overrated. I can't see the Pats going undefeated — the league is too deep to not have at least one squad jump up and bite them — but when it matters, they're too good in all aspects of the game. That includes Tom Brady, who now that he finally has a supporting cast is a few months away from his first regular-season MVP award. (A few other quick-hit football thoughts: (a) If the season ended today, the NFC would have one Super Bowl contender — Dallas; (b) I'd take five AFC teams right now — New England, Indianapolis, Pittsburgh, San Diego and Tennessee — over anyone in the NFC; (c) Nice game, Kenton Keith (right); (d) If Green Bay had taken care of the ball, the Packers would be 5-0. Instead, they threw a game away to a mediocre Bears team. I fear that'll come back to haunt Brett Favre and the Pack; (e) It'll take something off the charts to top the madness of the last few minutes from Dallas's 25-24 win Monday over Buffalo.)
– From Lyn, who responded after I debated with myself whether or not a human rights settlement involving the U of S women's hockey team was appropriate or not. She didn't agree with me when I said: "If Huskie Athletics was run like a business model, the settlement reached late last week would be the equivalent of a local female band that draws a few dozen onlookers to The Roxy getting the same record deal as Justin Timberlake, just to keep things equal." Said Lyn: "When taxpayers fund the Roxy you can make that comparison. Otherwise it's a load of crap."
DD: My problem with that equal-rights-for-all-no-matter-w
hat kind of thinking is that it almost never goes according to plan and while one group's rights are improved, another's suffers. University athletic departments across North America are shutting down countless men's programs — notably sports like wrestling, track and field and soccer — because equal amounts of money have to be spent on men's and women's athletics. So, because a sport like football has so many male athletes and skews the numbers, to make the digits balanced other men's sports suffer. How is that fair? (Just asking.)
– From Murray: "Your comments on the River Landing criticisms can only be lumped into the category of 'trolls'. As a veteran internet user, I know it's better to ignore trolls' than to respond to their vitriolic attempts to raise blood pressure levels, so I'll succumb to the temptation as succinctly as possible: Everything in your little diatribe is unfair and pretty much wrong. It is so absurdly abusive and naive that it comes across as nothing more than a chimpanzee puffing out its cheeks, screaming loud and throwing feces. That's how wrong it is. But then, I guess that's the primary goal of any columnist on a newspaper. To throw feces and create outrage."
DD: First, I wasn't attempting to throw feces and create outrage. I truly believe that The People Against Everything think Alberta is the devil, that change is bad, that people with money are bad and that if everyone can't enjoy something, then nobody should be allowed to enjoy it. All you had to do was read with an unbiased eye some of the feedback to the River Landing proposal; it's not me saying those things, it's The People Against Everything.
Second, I wish Murray would have told me what was "unfair and pretty much wrong" so I could respond in more detail. That kind of critique would get a failing grade in an elementary school book report ("Moby Dick sucked. Just because.") Tell me why I was unfair, Murray. Tell me why I was throwing feces. (I loved that line, though. Made me laugh out loud as I read it.)
– From Paul: "Just wanted to say that you're absolutely dead on about your comments regarding the Saskatchewan attitude towards change. I just wanted to know where you stand politically? You strike me as a conservative, but maybe that's just me."
DD: Since Paul asked, and since election fever is in the air . . . I actually don't associate myself with any party or any ideology. I just want people to live and let live. I'm pro-gay marriage and pro-choice. I think marijuana and prostitution should both be legal for adults. I guess I'm pretty much pro-anything as long it's not hurting other people, so in that sense, I'm very liberal. At the same time, I'm pro-business, pro-development and pro-survival of the fittest, so I guess those are more conservative traits. When it comes down to it, though, above all else I'm just pro-common sense. So, if someone wants to start up the Saskatchewan Common Sense Party, they'd have my vote. Seeing as how that didn't happen in time for this election, I'll have to cast my ballot elsewhere. Where, I don't know just yet.
– From Stephan: "A bunch of us were debating this the other night. Britney or Lindsay Lohan, who do you take right now? All the girls said Lohan. A few of the guys picked Britney because they figure she'll do anything, but most went with Lohan."
DD: At their peak, I'd have to go with Britney Spears. She was on her way to legendary, all-timer status before she lost her mind. But right now, it feels like there's no hope for Brit, while LiLo has just gotten out of rehab, is looking really good and just might be turning herself around. Today, then, I'd have to pick Lohan. (I love gossip and the Hollywood scene, but with Britney it's actually gotten to the point where I feel bad reading anything more about her. I can't help but feel like I'm following a dead woman walking.)
– From Tad: "hi dave . . . I, too, am a huge Ice Cube buff. I was wondering why you didn't use one or more of Cube's songs in your all-time beatdowns entry? 'Hit 'em Up' is OK but I never really bought into all that "Tupac is the messiah of rap" during the 90's. Cube held that throne alone until he started appearing in silly-ass family comedies."
DD: Two thoughts here — (1) If Tad's real name is Tad, I can only assume that he must have taken enough grief to nearly snap around the time Win A Date With Tad Hamilton came out; (2) From the 1990s, you can throw five names into the mix as the biggest rap legends of the decade: Ice Cube, Dr. Dre, Tupac, Biggie and Nas. Others might argue for Eminem (didn't hit it big until 1999), Public Enemy or Eric B. & Rakim (both were more influential in the 1980s), and Jay-Z (who you could make a case for, I'll admit). But, Tad, as big a fan as I am of Ice Cube (no rapper was better than Cube was from 1988-1994), Tupac was that big and he was that good. Plus, he inspired one of the funniest skits ever on The Chappelle Show. http://youtube.com/watch?v=4RKB_zb03Ek
– We'll close the week out with a couple of videos sent to me from the first two SNL episodes of the season (for those who missed out):
From Cam: "Yeah, Kanye may be an a**hole but this was pretty funny. And at least he could make fun of himself a little."
And from Ali: "For as much as people say SNL sucks now, there's always something good every week. Like Seth and Amy. This week's 'Really?!? on Senator Craig was ridonkulous."
DD: My favourite line: "I'm not creeped out that you tried to have gay sex in an airport bathroom. I'm creeped out that you tried to have any sex in an airport bathroom. I don't even like going to the bathroom in an airport bathroom."
Dave Deibert is loving his advance copy of Chris Jericho's autobiography and would recommend it to anyone when it comes out. With comments or critiques, reach him at firstname.lastname@example.com


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The End31 Aug 2012
For everyone who had an unproductive, bad, uninteresting, boring, or otherwise shitty Friday please click on this link and spend 13 minutes basking in what can only be described as:
That's it…for realz! I don't have anything else to say but:
- Lists will tank your time on site.
I am not much of a google analytics nerd (suriously, I used to love MTG); however, I thought it would be interesting to see how this blogging foray has impacted the traffic to this here site.
To my suprise, there has been quite an uptick on visitor front. HOWEVER, I clicked the compare to time on site and saw the opposite. Although, there were more people visiting the site, they were quicker to leave, perhaps because most of the stuff being presented was kinda bland, off the cough for the past month. This, coupled with the very unedity side of life is what forced people away.
And this post isn't going to help much on that front either. Being the last post of the month I would like to thank all of the people who attempted to read my ramblings as well as the people who immediately turned tail and ran away as fast as fucking possible.


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You have basically discovered that the acai berry is suggested for losing weight but not a lot of reference materials have told you why. Below, we will focus more about how Acai Berries actually aids in the slimming process.
Best Nutrient Content
You shed weight by making the proper food options. Did you ever notice that when you eat junk or highly refined foodstuff, you continue wanting more. Why? All these foodstuff have extremely low nutrient density. You have not given your body the vitamins and nutrients it needs to perform. You'll need vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals to help keep you going, and the acai berry is packed with them. You'll not be feeling consistently hungry when you obtain the proper nutrition.
High in Antioxidants
While you normally think of carbohydrates and fats when attempting to lose some weight, it is also vital to know that antioxidants play a crucial role along the way. Antioxidants basically pull toxins away from the body, which are generally stored in fat cells, including harmful toxins from food preservatives. These harmful toxins make us really feel lethargic and by eradicating them, the body's metabolic performance and vitality increases.
Reduced Sugar
Acai berry is incredibly low in sugar and features an incredibly low GI (glycemic index) of 12 (anything lower than fifty-five is regarded as low). High sugar consumption is among the contributors of excess weight. Sugar is readily converted into fat which can be stored in the body so consuming plenty of it can definitely lead you to gain pounds. High GI foods trigger dramatic surges and drops in blood sugar levels causing you to repeatedly experience hunger. With the minimal sugar content of acai berry, you will not have to endure those bothersome desires for sugar-rich foodstuff.
Loaded with Fiber
Loads of fiber can keep you feeling full and satiated for prolonged periods. High soluble fiber foodstuff such as acai transform to a gel-like substance in the tummy that has the action of absorbing fats and decreasing cholesterol. Additionally, it traps sugars from your food and enables them to be circulated slower into the body, preventing blood glucose levels from extraordinary spikes. Furthermore, acai is loaded with insoluble fiber content which enhances the bulkiness of your dishes, making you feel full with very little intake.
Loaded with the Good Fats
EFAs, also called Omegas and available generously in acai berry, are good fats that basically inhibit fat storing and raise the level of fat burned by the body. EFAs can get a grip on alteration in hormones by focusing on the body's cell membranes. They have the action of bringing down insulin levels in the circulatory system. Higher insulin signifies that fat will not be used as energy, and is instead kept as fat cells.
You now know how acai berries can help you keep those unwelcome pounds at bay, examine acai berry review to learn where you could acquire the best acai supplements out there.


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Adelaide Cabaret Festival
Adelaide Cabaret Festival is an annual festival commencing on the Queen's Birthday long weekend each June.
Established in 2001 and the biggest festival of its kind, Adelaide Festival Centre's Adelaide Cabaret Festival is a major event in the international and Australian arts calendar.
The festival has garnered a reputation of highlighting the best local, national and international artists through an eclectic program of classic and contemporary cabaret performances
Want to know more?
Contact West Beach Parks or phone (+61 8) 8355 7360


text: Nestled within the scenic beauty of west Contra Costa County, along the advantageous I-80 corridor, the City of El Cerrito is an established community boasting an enhanced quality of life that is truly second to none. The city of more than 23,500 residents and nearly 950 diverse businesses has long been recognized as an exceptional place to reside, and is maintaining that reputation through organized development and revitalization to many of its vital resources. Due to the growing opportunities blooming from the area's exceptional initiatives, El Cerrito continues to draw in new business ventures and is establishing itself as one of the finest communities for shopping, dining and recreation. With this strong commitment to enrich the standard of living, the City of El Cerrito has placed itself on the right track toward continuing prosperity and eminence.


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IN historical Southampton, how old is historic? For 26-year-old Alexis Stewart, anything from the 1950's is historic. Ms. Stewart, a daughter of Martha Stewart, the decorating and entertainment author, is trying to open a 50's-style diner. She has named it the Delish, pronounced dee-LISH, as in delicious.
Last year Ms. Stewart bought the authentic stainless-steel diner in Massachusetts and had it shipped to land she purchased on Montauk Highway in Bridgehampton. The diner is to be incorporated into a 4,000-square-foot restaurant featuring 50's decor and food.
But the Southampton Town Planning Board is reviewing the project to decide whether it fits in esthetically with the community. "The controversy is over the question of character," the chairman of the board, Roy L. Wines Jr., said."Would this be out of character for the neighborhood?" The neighborhood has a "wood-shingled barn-type historic East End flavor," he said.
Ms. Stewart looks at the neighborhood a bit differently. "My nearest neighbor is a Carvel," she said. "Now that is a historic landmark," even without its giant cones, which the town ordered removed.
Across the street is Caldor's and King Kullen. This area of the Hamptons is not Williamsburg. Ms. Stewart is hopeful the Planning Board will recognize that fact when they meet on Thursday to decide whether the project needs an environmental-impact study. A hearing on the diner comes next.Continue reading the main story
The delays mean that Ms. Stewart, of East Hampton and Manhattan, will not open her diner this summer. "But hopefully I'll be building it," she said.
The idea for the diner had nothing to do with her mother, Ms. Stewart said. "People tend to shy away from what they grew up with," she said. "I grew up with foie gras, and I don't like it anymore. You try to do something different."
Although her mother thinks opening a diner "is great," Ms. Stewart said, "it wouldn't be her choice. She's not wild about Naugahyde." NO RIBS TO SPARE
Patricia Getter of Huntington cooked a special holiday meal last Sunday. It was National Pig Day. Mrs. Getter made macaroni. "It's Sweet Pea's favorite," she said.
Sweet Pea is the Getters' pet pig. On National Pig Day, the Getters give their pot-bellied pig a special treat and refrain from eating pork. "We do like bacon, though," Mrs. Getter said. Holiday celebrating can be confusing in the Getter household.
It was also a bit confusing at the Suffolk County Farm in Yaphank, where the Cornell Cooperative Extension celebrated National Pig Day by sponsoring a pig program. The Getter children and dozens of others took their parents to view the farm pigs. "Pigs are like dinosaurs to the kids," Karin Weber of Lake Ronkonkoma said. "They love them."
Parents love them, too. But they also understand the reality of farming, that the piglet cuddled today will soon grow to 220 pounds and wind up in "hog heaven," as Jerry Williams puts it. "Our pigs are pork producers," said Mr. Williams, swine director of the farm. "The meat is fed to the inmates at the Suffolk County Jail."
So it was a strange day viewing pigs as if they were in a zoo, but knowing that their time was limited. Except, of course, for the stud pigs, or boars, and their ladies-in-waiting, the sows. They seem to have a wonderful time at the Suffolk County Farm, especially Big Bert, 650 pounds of hunka-hunka burning-love.
For National Pig Day, Miss Piggy and Porky Pig were honored. And pig facts were presented, like the facts that the world's largest pig weighs 2,660 pounds and that pigs sailed with Columbus.
The mother-and-daughter team of Susan and Amy Wilk of Sound Beach found the facts fascinating. So did Mike Malkush, who owns Lil Pig Out, a company on the Island that makes pig-shaped candies. "We've got Gummy Pigs and Good 'n Piggy," Mr. Malkush said in between viewing pigs and handing out pink-colored pig pens.
Ms. Weber and her two daughters loved the pigs, too. But Ms. Weber was already talking about her next excursion. "We're going to the opening of a new Dairy Barn," she said. "They're supposed to have a cow there." FANCY CAR, BAD ENCOUNTER
Richard Wit of East Islip thought that he had found the least stressful way to send his family of five to Florida. "Flying was too expensive," said Mr. Wit, a teacher at Massapequa High School. "And we couldn't get good connections anyway during the February break. So I decided to rent a car."
To make the journey more comfortable, he rented a Lincoln Continental. His wife, Susan, and their three children, aged 14, 8, and 6, were duly impressed. Off drove the Wit family to visit Mr. Wit's mother in Delray Beach.
"It was about 8:30 P.M. the second night," he said, "and we were driving I-95 in Florida between Cocoa Beach and the Delray Beach exit. It's really dark along that stretch, and this white Mustang comes alongside of us. Then he gets behind us. I speed up. He speeds up. I slow down. He slows down. Now I know the state troopers in Florida drive Mustangs. So I'm driving real carefully and then he puts on a flashing blue light. I think maybe he really is a cop. So I pull over.
"But he's got an old Mustang, and I have my doubts. So I leave the engine on and the car in drive. And I do not get out of the car. Finally he gets out and starts walking toward us. My wife is in the back seat. She's watching, too. Suddenly she sees him pull back his jacket and he's got a gun.
"She yells, 'He's got a gun!' She tells the kids to hit the deck, and I just put the accelerator to the floor and peel out of there. He's got the gun out and is yelling something. I went 90 miles an hour to the next exit. He didn't chase me."
Mr. Wit is certain that he would have been robbed if he had not sped away. And he also is certain that he was selected to be robbed because he was driving a luxury rental car with New York license plates. "If I had Florida license plates and a little Honda this would not have happened," he said.
He warns New Yorkers to drive Interstate 95 only in the daytime. An officer of the Florida Highway patrol said Mr. Wit's case was unusual. Lieut. Roy Rogers -- "Yes, that's my name, and I've heard all the jokes" -- patrols in a white Mustang. But he did not stop Mr. Wit. "I would have remembered," he said.
There have been no reported incidents of someone impersonating an officer on Interstate 95 lately, he said. Lately? "In the last six to eight months," he said. The lieutenant acknowledged that there were serious problems in driving Interstate 95 "down near Miami." Robbers signal drivers that there is something wrong with their cars or bump fenders to make drivers pull over.
If anything suspicious happens, the officer advises, New Yorkers should continue driving slowing to the next "well-lit business area."
Mr. Wit advises not driving at all. "I took the Auto-Train home," he said. "My family wanted nothing to do with driving back."Continue reading the main story


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Monday - Friday. 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM.
By Appointment.
Want something to be delivered quickly for your self? Or want to give a gift to someone special and need shipping quickly? We have jewellery that we have in stock right now and ready to ship to you within 1 business day. We always keep a sizeable collection of diamonds & gemstones jewellery that is ready to ship for quick shopping for an event or an occasion. Perhaps a diamond gift for an anniversary? Or a beautiful diamond & sapphire pendant for your daughter's graduation? Or a mother's day gift? Or perhaps a push present to your wife for bringing your wonderful baby into this world?


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– School Dismissal @ 2:05pm today and next week!
Friday, Nov. 2nd – Friday, Nov. 9th
for Parent – Teacher Conferences
– No School on Tuesday, Nov. 6! (Election Day)
PTA Announcements
And if you can, help out with phone banking on Sunday, Nov. 4th!
- Madera Matters Newsletter – Oct. 2012 Edition (PDF)
- Sign up for Paperless Blue Folders
Enroll by mid-November to participate If you like getting your blue folder content here (on the website or via email) – sign up & save a tree, save the PTA the cost of paper, and save the Blue Folder stuffing volunteers some time! Thanks to parents who have signed up – you saved 1000+ sheets of paper this week alone!
- Add your info to the Madera Directory
Make your contact info available to other Madera parents; this directory is only accessible by parents who are subscribers to the Madera PTA google group! If you need to correct your listing, contact Nerissa.
Madera News & Events
- Thousand Page Reading Club (PDF)
Fill out reading logs by November 5, 2012
nb. if you have the old 'by month' form bookmarked, change it to this one and use it from now on! The other form is going offline.
- Pre-Bookfair Cheesecake/Candy Bar "FUNraiser"
Now – Thursday, November 9, 2012
Download bookfair cafe order form (excel spreadsheet file)
We will have a FUNdraiser contest before the actual bookfair scheduled November 17, with a percentage of net sales counted towards the total kick back to Madera for this event! Whoever orders the most Godiva Chocolate Bars and Cheesecake Factory Cakes by November 9th will be the lucky winner. The grand prize winner will get a FREE Nook Tablet! See the bookfair cafe order form (.xls file) to get started. All orders MUST be emailed to Terri Lynn by end of school day Nov. 9th or placed into Barnes & Noble basket in school office.
- Madera Alumni Portola Panel
Wednesday, November 14, 2012
7:00pm – 8:00pm in the Multi-Purpose Room
Come hear from current 7th and 8th graders about Portola, and ask the students, some Portola parents, and Principal Burnham about life at Portola. Both parents and kids are welcome.
- Pizza / Movie Night (Pixar's "Brave")
Friday, November 16, 2012
Dinner – 6:00pm – 6:45pm | Movie starts @ 7:00pm
A fabulous pizza dinner served by Madera 6th Graders & a free movie brought to you by Dad's Club & Madera PTA.
Order your pizza in by Wednesday, Nov. 14th – download & turn in the order form! (PDF) The students are eager to raise money for Science Camp. Other goodies will be sold as well. All donations are welcomed and much appreciated.
- Barnes & Noble Bookfair (PDF)
Saturday, November 17, 2012
11:00am – 2:00pm
Get a jump start on your holiday shopping while supporting Madera! Come and shop at Barnes & Noble on Saturday November 17, 2012 and mention "Madera Elementary School" at check out. A percentage of the net sale will be contributed directly to Madera.
Community Happenings
- Bay Area Science Festival
October 27 – November 3, 2012
- El Cerrito Green Team Clean-up
Saturday, November 10, 2012
10:00am – 12:00pm
- Portola Fundraiser @Jenny K's
November 12 – 16, 2012
Jenny K, located at 6921 Stockton Avenue in El Cerrito, will donate 20 percent of all purchases to Portola Middle School. Proceeds will benefit WriterCoach Connection at Portola, a successful literacy program that brings trained volunteers to campus for one-on-one coaching to advance students' writing and critical thinking.
Want to submit an event / flyer / notice to the weekly blue folder?
Send it here!


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Masturbation is a term we generally associate men, but masturbation isn't the exclusive domain of men and women can masturbate too. What most people tend to forget is that women are also sexual beings and can have the same needs, just like a man. While the jury is still out on what actually excites a woman (erotic novels, sexy innuendos, a certain fragrance or even the memory of someone) and how often women think about sex, it is definitely true that women need sexual release just like men.
In India, where societal norms and rules don't allow women to express their sexuality or even acknowledge the presence of any kind of pleasure, it is quite common to come across people who think that masturbation does not exist, that a woman cannot pleasure herself and that touching your private parts is weird apart from other such misconceptions. So, in order to empower women to feel pleasure, in this post we answer some of the most burning questions about masturbation, how you can do it and why it is essential.
Do women actually do it?
First things first – yes! Women do and can masturbate; just as men do. Although the organs involved are a bit different, the satisfaction is far greater than what a man feels when he masturbates (our orgasms lasts approximately 25 seconds as compared to a man's 15 seconds). Apart from that, it is absolutely natural, normal and will do you no harm. In fact masturbation is a healthy practice and can help you in a number of ways. It helps you build a positive body image, helps you understand what you do and don't like – sexually, what turns you on and most importantly lets you explore and understand your private parts (an absolutely essential thing when it comes to your health). Read about why masturbating is important for your health.
Can a woman do it herself?
Yes, you can. All you actually need are your fingers and your body. It's that simple. While most of us think that we need a partner to help us feel pleasure or climax, there is nothing father from the truth. Most women do not orgasm while having sexual intercourse. In fact, according to a recent study 30% women do not orgasm when stimulated vaginally, making penetrative sex a little disappointing. This is where pleasuring yourself comes in very handy. No more frustrating nights where your partner has not been able to make you orgasm. Sounds good doesn't it?
Is it safe? Is there any risk of injury?
Okay, we won't lie, if you are overzealous while you masturbate, you could harm yourself. Here is where knowing what you like is essential. If you don't know yet, experimentation is the key, but apart from you wanting to hit that happy-high too quickly, there is no other risk involved with masturbation. Yes, using sex toys or other objects to pleasure yourself vaginally, may have its own risks, so it is best you use them wisely.
Risks and precautions: Here are some preparatory steps and precautions you should take
- Wash your hands well: Before you masturbate wash your hands well, with soap. This is an essential step as dirty hands are capable of causing an infection. Additionally, if you have just eaten something spicy you will end up feeling a burning sensation rather than pleasure. So wash your hands well.
- Maintain short nails: Your genital areas (clitoris, inner and outer lips of your vagina and the walls of your vagina) are made up of extremely soft skin, that is easily damaged. So cut your nails and file them so they are soft and do not scratch you.
- Clean your sex toys: If you do use a sex toy (like a vibrator or a dildo) remember to wash it well with warm water and soap. This will prevent you from introducing any infection causing organisms into your private parts.
How do you do it?
Here is a 10 step guide to get you started
Step 1: Set the mood: The kind of arousal you need is subjective, but one thing a woman needs is a calm, relaxing environment where she can simply unwind and think sexy thoughts. So try to set the mood, light some candles, draw a relaxing bath, play some sexy music and if you like, pick up an erotic novel. Most importantly, remember to lock your door so that you are not disturbed, unless you live alone, that is. Another good preparatory tip is to have soft and inviting lights along with a clean, soft bed sheet. While this might sound silly, the right lighting and a bed sheet that feels wonderful against your naked skin can make all the difference.
Step 2: Undress: This is not really that essential, but it definitely helps. Some women may not feel comfortable being completely nude, while there are others who might enjoy it. So figure it out. Strip and see how you feel, if you like it lie down on your back.
Step 3: Imagine: Whether it's a romantic scene from Grey's Anatomy or the image of a hot model, imagine a scenario in which you feel sexually aroused. This part will also teach you about what you like sexually. Be it rough sex, romantic kisses or some fetish, go with the flow and allow yourself some dirty thoughts.
Step 4: Touch your body: You could start with simply running your fingers across your body, breasts, face, hair, lips, the top of your abdomen leading to your vaginal lips and inner thighs. This process will tell you where you like being touched. Some of the most common erogenous zones include your nipples, breasts, inner thighs, inner and outer lips of your vagina. For some women the scalp is also a good erogenous zone. So touch yourself, and when you feel that a particular spot works well for you intensify your touch there.
Step 5: Move to the zone that will make you orgasm: While some women can orgasm touching their breasts (called a breast orgasm), clitoris or inner thighs there are others who like the feeling of touching the outer and inner lips of their genitals. You could also stroke the outer portions of your vagina and move up to you clitoris. Here is when you might want to spread your legs, bend your knees and allow your hands to explore. The clitoris is a tiny bump like structure that is present at the top of your vaginal lips. It is usually a little hard to touch and will feel extremely good. While stimulating your clitoris remember that the pressure you apply depends on how you feel. For some women a light stroking and feather like touch is all that is needed, while for others something stronger might do the trick.
Steps 6: Intensify your touch: If you like touching your clitoris and that is what turns you on, intensify your touch there. A good way to know that you are aroused is to focus on what you feel, your breath will become faster and more laboured, your genital region will engorge with blood and you will feel warm all over, you might even sweat a bit. Now, using your index finger (or any other finger you want) you can try to stroke your clitoris in circular motions. Start gently and make it stronger as your feeling of arousal intensifies.
Step 7: Add other factors: To make this experience even more exciting, try touching your nipples and breast with your other hand. You could also touch your vagina, gently stroking it. To make things even more exciting you can even try inserting a finger into your vagina. If you are a virgin this might be new to you and you might see some blood initially, but this is just your hymen breaking. Remember to be gentle if you do decide to do this for the first time. Another great way is to run your hands along your body, focusing on your tummy, just above and below your belly button. Let your fantasies intensify too. Imagine yourself being caressed, having sex or even receiving some oral sex. Most importantly, allow your body to tell you what you like.
Step 8: Climax: Now is when you are absolutely ready to orgasm. You will feel extremely aroused, like your orgasm is about to happen. This is a sensation where you are just desperate for more. Now is when you can make swifter and stronger motions around your clitoris and vagina. If you have a finger in your vagina or are playing with your breasts, try to make stronger motions around the area (you can pinch your nipples or move your finger in and out of your vagina), this will only intensify the feeling you are experiencing. Soon you should feel an absolutely amazing sensation wash over you. Don't stop what you are doing, and allow yourself to be completely in the moment. Breathing in deeply can help intensify the feeling and will make your orgasm last longer. You will feel your vagina contract, your body stiffen and in some cases, your toes curl (a toe curling orgasm is not a myth ladies). Read more about the 5 types of orgasms every woman can have.
Step 9: Enjoy the after-glow: This is when your orgasm has just ended and a feeling of absolute happiness and relaxation fills you. Allow your body to simply unravel and enjoy the moment. Some women like to hug a pillow or simply curl up and rest for a while. You may even want to take a nap. Don't worry, it is an absolutely normal feeling, and is because of all the happy hormones coursing through your body. Just allow yourself to revel in the feeling.
Step 10: Wash up: Once you have rested and are ready to get up, head to the bathroom and wash up. This is essential with respect to hygiene, as during arousal your vagina secretes lubricating fluid that must be washed away after you are done. Some plain warm or room temperature water should do the trick.
How often can/ should a woman masturbate?
This is entirely up to you and depends on how often you feel like doing it. Women, most often have phases in the month where they are more sexually aroused than other times, so gauge this and allow yourself the pleasure. But, be warned having an orgasm and masturbating can be addictive (all good things are) so masturbate only when you absolutely must.


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Wendy's High School Heisman finalists experience the stage where great collegiate Heisman winners like Archie Griffin, Bo Jackson, Barry Sanders and Tim Tebow have stood before. They will join the Heisman family and become a part of the legacy of the Wendy's High School Heisman.
More than anything, finalists have the chance to create friendships with others who share their passions and ambitions and meet a network of individuals who will serve as mentors for the rest of their lives.


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Product DetailsWorking class stenographer Sheba Miller (Alice White) thinks she's heading for a dull, luxury-less married life with her Regular Joe beau, Jack (William Bakewell), a soda jerk that works for Sheba's father, cigar store owner Pa Miller (Richard Carlyle). Trying to show Sheba a good time on his meager earnings, Jack takes her to an exclusive underworld nightclub, The Pirate's Den. Realizing he does not have the dough-re-mi for the Den, Jack tries to leave when Sheba defiantly enters a "knees contest" judged by gentlemanly gangster Nicky Solomon (Chester Morris). Nicky selects Sheba for the silver cup by slipping a garter on her thigh, and the rest is sparks and swoons. Sheba promptly defies Pa and leaves Jack in the cold and hitches her star to Nicky. But smooth-talking Nicky has a secret.he has less jack than Jack, but is desperate to do anything to change that - including robbing Pa's cigar store!
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If you're looking for something a bit different for your dad on Father's Day (Sunday 18th June), I have just the thing to not only get him mobile but get him to work a bit quicker too.
The lovely people at Skates.co.uk are offering a fabulous big foldable scooter, just the thing for getting around on – the Frenzy 145mm Recreational Scooter worth £80.
The brand new Frenzy FR145 145mm Recreational Scooter is a perfect choice for anyone who wishes to make their commuting life easier!
The scooter folds down for easy storage, has a kick stand and a carry strap for easy transportation and feature 145mm wheels for speed and comfort.
The maximum rider weight is 100kg and the maximum bar height is 97.5 cm.
You also get a free bonus pack which includes:
Full Scooters Stickers Sheet with 36 stickers (including the top brands: Apex, MGP, River, Roots, Drone, Supremacy, Elite, Fasen, Raptor, AO, Dare, Tilt, Proto, Hellagrip, Ethic, Flavor, Blunt/Envy, Dare, Logic, Scooter Jam Series, Skates.co.uk) and a multicoloured Skates.co.uk wristband.
There's no doubt that dad will look a lot cooler than the husband did last year on my lovely Skates.co.uk skateboard.
But if skateboards are dad's thing, he might want to relive his youth on his own skateboard such as the Enuff Logo Model or how about a pair of men's inline skates?
Skates.co.uk also have a great range of scooters, skates and Heelys. There's free UK next day delivery for orders over £40 and a Price Match Promise to boot (or skate).
If you would like to win your dad this scooter, simply enter via the Rafflecopter below. The giveaway ends at 11:59 pm on Sunday 11th June. UK entrants only. Terms and conditions can be viewed on my competitions page.
Good luck!


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Crazy Storage Solutions for Space Travel?
By Dom Daninger, VP of Engineering at Seagate
Nor-tech, a Seagate Cloud Builder Alliance partner is doing some crazy cool things in the world of High Performance Computing (HPC) using our Seagate Enterprise Capacity hard drives and fellow Cloud Builder Alliance partner: Elliptical Mobile Solutions. Check it out:


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7024 Sunburst WayCitrus Heights, CA 95621
2Full Baths
This home shows pride of ownership! From the curb through the home! You will love the beautiful remodeled kitchen, quality cabinets, granite counter tops, stainless steel appliances & custom dining bar. Updated bathrooms, dual pane windows, great roof! Perfect for entertaining, with a nice big dining room, open floor plan. Cozy fireplace and inviting in ground pool, surrounded by exposed agragate concrete, home backs to Twin Creek Park, an easy commute to I80. and room to park your boat.
Sign in or create an account to add your personal places of interest (your office, school, etc.) to see how far this property is from them.
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Sign up to save favorite properties and searches, receive property alerts on new or updated listings, and more.Find out more
- Subtype
- 1 House on Lot
- Approx Lot Size
- 0.140
- Year Built
- 1977
- Stories
- 1
- Fireplaces
- 1
- Garage Spaces
- 2
- Pool
- Yes
- 18016902
- Ranch
Garage type
- 2 Car Attached
- Facing Front
- Workshop in Garage
- Area
- Citrus Heights
- Area ID
- 10621
- County
- Sacramento
- Cross Street
- Twin Park
- Elementary District
- San Juan Unified
- Junior High District
- San Juan Unified
- Senior High District
- San Juan Unified
Additional Details
Census Tract81.32
Living Area SourceAssessor/Auto-Fill
Energy Features
- Ceiling Fan(s)
- Dual Pane Full
Security Features
- Carbon Mon Detector
- Smoke Detector
Miscellaneous Features
- Patio Uncovered
Other Structures
- Pergola
Existing FinancingVA
TermsCash, Conventional, FHA, VA
CC & R's1
- Central
- Central
- Public District
- All Public
- Natural Gas
- In and Connected
Stories DescriptionLower Level
Remodeled / UpdatedYes
Master Baths
- Tile
- Tub
- Window
Additional Bath Options
- Tile
- Tub w/Shower Over
- Window
Laundry Description
- 220 Volt Hook-Up
- Cabinets
- In Garage
Fireplace Description
- Living Room
Dining Description
- Formal Area
Kitchen Description
- Counter Granite
Kitchen Appliances
- Dishwasher
- Disposal
- Microwave B/I
- Range Elec F/S
Floor Coverings
- Carpet
- Linoleum or Vinyl
- Tile
Room Description
- Great Room Concept
Remodeled / Updated Description
- Bath 6-10YR
- Kitchen 6-10YR
Pool LocationOn Lot
- Concrete Slab
- Frame
- Wood
- Siding Vinyl
- Stucco
- Fenced Back
Pool Type
- Built-In
- Gunite Construction
- Sidewalk
- Curb
- Gutter
Recreational Parking
- Boat Dock
- RV Possible
Road Description
- Public Maintained
Roof Description
- Comp Shingle
Site Description
- Shape Regular
- Trees Few
Citrus Heights is a community located between Sacramento and Roseville. Its close proximity to major freeways in the area make it an ideal location for commuting parents and professionals.
Citrus Heights officially became a city in 1997 and has a deep-rooted history dating back to the late 1800s and the Gold Rush.
Citrus Heights is family friendly and offers great schools, beautiful parks, youth programs and many community events. The City of Citrus Heights preserves and promotes the City's historic resources, fostering and developing enrichment programs for the arts.
Citrus Heights is home to a bustling retail and service industry. Sunrise Mall, with over 100 stores, is located in the center of the city, along with the Sunrise MarketPlace a growing retail community offering a wide variety of retail, dining, and service establishments.
Many homes in the area are ranch style and range from two to four bedrooms, and were built in the late 1970's on generous sized lots. It is a great area for an active family, and is part of the highly regarded San Juan Unified school district.
Citrus Heights is a two hour drive from San Francisco and 75 miles from Lake Tahoe, making it a great location for those who enjoy weekend getaways.
School Districts
Private Schools by ZIP Code
Similar Homes for Sale
Citrus Heights, CA 95621
- 3 Beds
- 2 Baths
- 1,273 SqFt
MLS 19000902 | Courtesy of Perry Estates
Citrus Heights, CA 95621
- 4 Beds
- 2 Baths
- 1,493 SqFt
MLS 19001725 | Courtesy of Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage
Courtesy of Lyon RE Fair Oaks


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Cool Living Room Furniture Placement
Formerly, the living room furniture placement seemed destined only to store television and special household items for family meals. To this day, the rooms are fill with many other things: books, toys, vinyl and decoration. It is a multifunctional space that is no longer dominate by a large piece of furniture, but rather by small, really useful storage solutions.
The living room furniture placement is a place where essentially many things happen. And it does not matter if you live as a couple, as a large family or share a flat: it is a common area where you need space for everything and everyone (also to put your feet on the table when you watch TV). The solution is simple: having everything organized, no one will trip over hard things when they go in socks.
We give you the storage solutions, the environment you put. And with a couple of candles and a dinner we know that why not show it on an open piece of living room furniture placement? You can use wooden shelves and combine books, figures and magazines. Or you can place it inside a showcase, away from dust. But in full view of everyone. That will give your cult objects a lot of status!
Due to look of months and design with these furniture like platform bed leather sofa sectional sofas bedroom furniture for styling a workspace that are tips for styling a workspace that are similar in style to float the living room arrangement small living room l shaped living room furniture for tips for home. Or changing worn out furnishings that are. Living room furniture placement, l shaped living room table and all i received a larger living room layout. Used pieces of california berkeley. Dining room seem larger living room set of the way you use these challenging spaces others quite.living room furniture placement


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Product: Morrisons Traditional Chicken & Mushroom Pie
Pack size: 400g
'Use By': 4 December 2017
No other Morrisons products are known to be affected.
If you have bought the above product and have an allergy to fish or mustard, do not eat it. Instead return it to the store from where it was bought for a full refund.


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While promoting her upcoming Netflix series Glow, Alison Brie recounted an uncomfortable audition for the HBO series/brofest Entourage.
"Early in my career, I auditioned for three lines on an episode of Entourage that I had to go on in a bikini!" she said after a screening of Glow at the ATX Festival in Austin, Texas. "Or, like, shorts and the tiniest shorts. And they were like, 'OK, can you take your top off now?'"
Following reports that Brie had been asked to go completely topless, the actress clarified on Twitter that this was not the case. "I had a bikini top on UNDER my top," she wrote. "They didn't ask me to get totally topless. Sorry to disappoint you!"
Regardless, her anecdote highlights the obstacles that women in Hollywood face as they strive to make a mark. Glow, in fact, explores a similar topic. The series centers on a struggling actress who finds an opportunity to reinvent herself when she takes a role on a schlocky women's wrestling series.
Glow is set in the 1980s. And the audition process for women today, Brie said, "has not changed that much."
Read the full story at Entertainment Weekly.
How many times can the 'Entourage' trailer disrespect women in 101 seconds?


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The February ratings sweeps turned out to be a good one for WKRG-TV as the CBS affiliate saw increases in most of its news broadcasts over the same time last year and also ranked first head-to-head with its competition when looking at overall households.
According to a breakdown of the February ratings period, WKRG ranked first among the market's four television stations in overall household ratings for noon and evening broadcasts and saw ratings increases in every time period. The ratings represent a percentage of televisions in the market watching that station.
In measurements of the morning shows, WKRG was not as dominant, with Pensacola's WEAR-TV taking the 6 o'clock hour, but it still won the 5 a.m. hour.
In the 5:30 a.m. time slot, WKRG's household rating went from a 2.6 last February to 3.8 this year, which was the highest for that half hour. WALA-TV placed second in that time slot with a 3.1 rating, which was down from 3.7 at the same time last year. WEAR followed with a 2.1, down from 3.4 last year and WPMI came in fourth with a 1.2, virtually unchanged from last year's 1.1.
At 6 a.m., WEAR's 5.2 for it's "3 in the Morning" show placed first, but was down slightly from the 5.3 it scored last year. WKRG followed with a 5.1 rating, up from a 3.9 last year, while WALA was up from last year's 4.9, placing third with a 5.0. WPMI came in fourth with a 1.8, down from 2.0 last year.
At noon WKRG dominated its only competition at that time slot, WPMI. WKRG posted a 7.1 rating, up from 5.9 last year, while WPMI matched its same mark from the year before with a 1.7.
At 5 p.m., WKRG took first again in overall households, scoring a 7.8, an improvement from last year's 6.7. WEAR followed closely with a 7.5, which was down from last year's 8.0. WALA placed third with a 5.6, down slightly from last year's 5.4 and WPMI matched last year with a 4.6.
The 6 p.m. broadcast again saw WKRG win the slot with an 8.3 rating, up from last year's 7.5, and WEAR placing second with a 7.1, up from 7.0 last year. WPMI placed third with a 4.0, down from last year's 4.9. WALA does not have a news broadcast in that time slot.
The late news at 10 p.m. went to WKRG, with a 7.0, up from 6.7. WEAR came in second at that time slot with a 4.9, down from 6.2 last year and WPMI scored a 3.4, down from 5.9 last year. WALA, which runs an hour-long news broadcast at 9 p.m. scored a 5.4 rating, up slightly from last year's 5.3.
In the ages 18-49 demographic, the story was a little different. WALA won the entire 5 a.m. hour with a 1.8 and 2.1 at 5 and 5:30. WKRG followed with a 1.4 and 1.7 respectively, then WEAR with 1.1 and 1.4, and WPMI with .3 and .4.
At 6 a.m. WEAR took first with a 4.2 rating, followed by WALA with a 3.0 and WKRG with 2.6 and WPMI at 1.0.
At 5 p.m., WEAR won the 18-49 demo with a 2.7, WKRG was second with 2.2, WALA was third with 2.1 and WPMI finished with a .9.
At 6 WKRG scored a 2.9, followed by WEAR with 2.6 and WPMI with 1.7. At 10 p.m. it was WEAR leading with a 2.6, WPMI with a 2.1, then WKRG with a 1.9. WALA scored a 2.5 rating for its 9 p.m. broadcast in that demographic.


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More light - long exposure experimentation. I am trying to avoid the typical, blurry people, car tail-lights, trails, type of long exposure. I want to seek out different colors/types of light to compare. Incandecent, flourescent, halogen, etc. they each have a different colors, and I am looking for areas where they converge.
03 March 2010
Posted by kyle at 20:34
Labels: art, black and white, daily, experiment, images, light, photography
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Have you read the Divergent series? and if so, have you thought bout maybe writing any songs bout it?
You have good timing! I just finished the first book yesterday. I haven't thought about it, but I guess it's in the realm of possibilities.
Previous question
So did you get any HP gifts for Christmas? if so, what? I got a book called" Diary of a Harry Potter Addict" and bookmark with wandpen. Also some jewelry on the way. Also are you still having a Holiday sale?Lauren Fairweather responded on 01/10/2014 Next question
I think I remember you making cat plushies a while back. Are those ever coming back?Lauren Fairweather responded on 01/15/2014
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Bonsai Blog from Peter Warren. Tales from the life of a journeyman Bonsai artist. Trying to make sense of the world through little trees in pots.
Wednesday, 28 January 2015
10 comments:
Dear Peter,ReplyDelete
I have carefully read your latest publication post.
I am a lover of bonsai that I practice with passion for 5 years now. While I understand your position, I do not share your dismay.
While it might be difficult to compete at the sale of trees, I am convinced that there is a lot to develop regarding training of bonsai enthusiasts.
I have personally tried all sources of information about bonsai: books, blog, magazines, websites, youtube videos, workshop. I learned a lot through this, but needs more now.
I'll be the first to want to access training given by professionals like you. However, for many amateurs like me, it is often not possible to access the trainer of our choice because of geographic constraints. However, I think there is a solution.
I subscribed to a guitar online training in the past on the artistworks.com website. The principle is to provide a structured training through videos. Then each registered person on the website can send videos of the works they did and receive a comment or criticism by their teacher.
If such an offer existed for bonsai and someone like you provided his professional skills, I'd be the first to enroll. I would even be willing to pay much more than the price that is asked on artistworks.com ($ 240 for 1 year). This way, you could have access to hundreds or even thousands of students.
I think this is a concept that you should think about.
Best regards.
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Hello Peter!ReplyDelete
It has been more than one year ago since you have written something for us to read...
I hope you and Mrs. Saruyama are very well doing.
We, in Athens, remember you and all the things you have taught us and we will always be grateful.
Hello to Peter Snart, too.
Best Regards,
I learned a lot through this, but needs more now.ReplyDelete
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Faced with the unprecedented recovery effort caused by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, the State of Louisiana's Recovery Authority (LRA) and Office of Community Development (OCD) turned to STR to provide a software platform to support disbursement of rebuilding grants to its homeowners affected by the devastating storms. This groundbreaking Road Home compensation program, with some $10+ billion in Federal Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Community Development Block Grant funding, represents the largest single housing recovery program in U.S. history. Originally installed in 2006, eGrants provides the processing backbone for managing some 150,000 residential grant applications through the intake, eligibility review and verification, grant award calculation and approval, and closing processes.
STR was able to rapidly configure and customize its baseline grant application module to support a pilot program launched within the first month following project initiation. Despite subsequent policy and programmatic shifts and significant changes to homeowner application and third-party data verification needs, this pilot implementation was easily adapted to provide full grant administration lifecycle support. Providing online application submission and status review capabilities, eGrants was customized with a rules-based Homeowner Grant Calculator engine to provide compensation options for which applicants were eligible based on key variables, including home value, damage assessments and previously received insurance and Federal benefits. State internal audit approval and quality control procedures were incorporated along with critical interfaces to support financial transparency, budget and third party closing/check disbursement.
STR continues today to provide operational support, specialized reporting and analysis to the State for the core Road Home program as well as delivering further system enhancements to support the Additional Compensation Grant (ACG). The ACG, with benefit eligibility based on applicant household income levels, is intended to assist with any gap between the Road Home estimated cost of damage and the amounts the homeowner receives from the original Road Home compensation grant and other assistance such as insurance or FEMA. In addition, STR is engaged directly with the Louisiana Land Trust to provide software capabilities to support the management of properties acquired by the State of Louisiana from original homeowners exercising a Road Home sale option.


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Events Coming Soon!
Director - Renae
Renae grew up in what was then a rural suburb of Detroit, raised by beloved Christian parents who walked their talk about Jesus every day. Her relationship with the Lord began at a very early age, and has deepened over the years due to the grace and goodness of God as she questioned, wrestled with, and studied the Word to know Him on a more personal level as life's curve balls, traumas, and painful tragedies challenged her faith.
PCA Board of Directors
Prison Congregations of America is served by a national board, which works hard to promote and support the ministry. Board members may be elected to two three-year terms.
Neil Bullock - Oak Park, IL
Macedonia Project Coordinator, ELCA
Pamela Deacon-Joyner, Board President-elect - Grapeview, WA
Retired educator
Sarah Estes, Board Secretary - Jefferson City, MO
Youth Program Associate, 4H LIFE Program
Rev. Chris Flohr, Board Immediate Past-president - Missoula, MT
Pastor of St. Paul Lutheran Church, Missoula, MT
Rev. Wayne Gallipo - Sioux Falls, SD
ELCA Pastor
Gloria Gurwell - Sturgis, SD
Substance Abuse Counselor
Rev. John Harrison, Board President - St. Louis, MO
Presbyterian (USA) Pastor
Dennis Hoffman, Board Treasurer - Sioux Falls, SD
CEO, Volunteers of America Dakotas
Rev. Paul Stone- Fort Dodge, IA
Pastor of The Church of the Damascus Road, Fort Dodge & Rockwell City, IA
PCA Advisory Board
Carol Porter - Olympia, WA
Former Warden, and national consultant to correctional facilities


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I've been spending inordinate amounts of time on Pinterest looking at myriad beautiful ideas, laughing at countless funny sayings, ooooing and aaaaahhhing at darling children, yummy desserts, gorgeous rooms - and getting entirely enthused about dozens of craft projects!
I wrote earlier about how those projects proliferated all over my house like VERY affectionate rabbits until I finally corralled them all into my own little craft corner. But not all of my projects are unfinished - oh no. I've finished quite a few of them - some of which cannot be shown until after Christmas (no spoilers here)! But there are some that I can share now.
I've seen so many great ideas for using magnets to make life simpler and more beautiful. I like to wear my hair up and clip flowers into it, but the basket I kept my flowers in often left them crushed. Getting my flowers up onto something that held them vertically seemed like the perfect solution.
Our bathroom has beaded paneling with molding detail above it that forms a series of small "frames" - perfect for my need! (If they weren't there, I'd just have used a normal frame.) I priced sheet metal to fit into the frames – yikes! Too much! I went to the roofing section of Lowe's and found rolls of galvanized flashing, but it was far more than I wanted. Then I found a roll of galvanized mesh – just right. (I felt kinda like the Three Bears: too much $$, too much length, juuuust right!) While I was there, I picked up a couple of packages of magnets, too.
The mesh cut very easily with tin snips, and also made it easy to keep my lines straight. Two lengths happened to fit perfectly inside the frames on the wall, wasn't that nice?
We rent this house, so I didn't want to do anything permanent, so I used four little dots of hot glue to attach each piece of mesh to the wall. Then, using a glue stick, I covered the mesh with a piece of white drawing paper cut to fit the "frame" and smoothed it out. You can't even tell that there is anything there! When we leave this house, it will be a simple matter to remove (if our landlord wants us to), but it will stay there until then.
I simply placed my magnets and popped a flower (or two) onto each one. Ta da! Lovely, handy, and no longer crushed! I love my pretty flower holders!


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Reflections from The Ramah Ukraine Leadership Experience
Guest blogger: Jonah Eisen, Camp Ramah in Canada
Today we got to explore the Jewish district in Budapest, specifically three different synagogues which have been restored since the Holocaust. The final synagogue we visited, one of the largest in Europe called the Dohany synagogue, was very special to me. This was the synagogue where my great, great grandfather, Joseph J. Klein, had his bar mitzvah in 1901, before moving to America in 1905. It was really an awe-inspiring feeling walking in the footprints where he once walked. I felt a deep sense of gratitude and appreciation for the synagogue and for my great, great grandfather who gave me the opportunity to practice and be proud of my Judaism in America. In the midst of the sheer beauty of the architecture and design of the synagogue, my eyes gravitated towards the grand bimah. As I approached this beautifully crafted bimah, I could almost see my great, great grandfather reading from the Torah and chanting the prayers. I imagined what it would be like for his parents and family members to watch him become a bar mitzvah, just as my family watched me. As a descendant of Joseph Klein and a young Jewish teen, I know that this emotional and powerful experience in the synagogue will help mold my Jewish identity and will be in my heart forever. I am thankful and proud that I had the opportunity to explore my own family roots here in Hungary and am very excited to continue to learn about our important Jewish heritage throughout the rest of the trip.
A fantastic group of high school students from Ramah camps across North America are exploring Hungary and Ukraine through the Ramah Ukraine Leadership Experience. They will be serving as counselors at Camp Ramah Yachad, run by The Schechter Institute.