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Freshwell Health CentreWethersfield RdFinchingfieldBraintree, CM7 4BQTel: 01371 810 328
July 2020
Homerton University Hospital has produced an excelled patient information and support pack designed to help you to recover and manage your symptoms following COVID-19 infection. You can download here - Post Covid Patient Support and Advice
Hearing Help Essex offers NHS hearing aid re-tubing, cleaning and maintenance. Due to Coronavirus they are unable to visit our practice to offer this service but you can still see them by appointment at their centre in Moulsham Street Chelmsford. They also offer a doorstop service for those who are vulnerable or have been shielding. Please contact them direct by telephone on 01245 496 347 by Text 07950 406 173 or email email@example.com
Hearing Help Essex is a registered charity (No: 113498)
April 2020
Since 6th April we have changed our dispensary opening hours.
Medication can now be collected between 10am - 1pm and 2pm - 6pm Monday to Friday.
When ordering your repeat medication please allow 5 working days for the team to process your request. With current pressures on the supply chain some medications are taking longer to get to us. We don't want you to come out on a wasted trip and our team are working as hard as they can!
Please continue to order in good time by either using Systmonline or by direct email email@example.com
We thank you for your patience and understanding during this time.
20th March 2020
Our dispensary is open as normal. Please do not phone us to ask about this - our reception team are currently being overwhelmed with such phone calls. We will let you know via our website if anything changes. Thank you
February 2020
Hospice Outreach Project
Farleigh Hospice are back at Freshwell Health Centre on Wednesday 12th February 2020 offering their drop service in for information, support & advice. Find the team in our waiting room between 9 - 11:30am.
Closed for Staff Training
Don't Forget we are closed from 1pm on Tuesday 11th February for Staff Training. We will reopen at 8am on Wednesday 12th Feb. if you need medical advice whilst we are closed please dial 111 from your telephone and speak with NHS111. If you have a medical emergency please dial 999
January 2020
Due to upgrading our computers here at the surgery we are experiencing a few teething troubles with out IT systems. Please bear with us whilst we get these rectified as soon as we can. We appreciate your patience and support.
Farleigh Hospice is returning to Freshwell Health Centre on Wednesday 15th January 2020 offering their drop service in for information, support & advice. Find the team in our waiting room between 9 - 11am.
September 2019
We have contacted the company who have placed road closure signs up in the area. This is due to improvements to broadband connectivity in the area and have been assured that the affected areas will be:-
17/09 à 09/10
Howe Street/Duck End/B1057 to junction of B1053
10/10 à 20/10 (provisional - dates may be subject to change)
Church Hill/B1053 to junction of Vicarage Road
We are sorry if this will affect you however they are outside of our control. Should you need any further advice on these closures please contact the John Henry Group on 01954 288011
We are now taking "early bird" bookings for the 2019 Flu Vaccinations campaign for the Over 65s. If you are 65 or over and would like to be vaccinated this year you can call to book an appointment at our clinic on SATURDAY 5th OCTOBER 2019 which starts at 8am. We are currently taking bookings for 8.00am-9.30am andwill release later appointments when they fill up. Call reception on 01371 810 328 to book your place.
June 2019
We are very excited to announce the launch of the Freshwell Low Carb Project, which has been set up to help our patients eat well & lose weight. Please click here for further details.
May 2019
The practice is delighted to welcome Mr David Shedden as the new practice manager. David brings a wealth of experience and knowledge having worked at other practices within Mid Essex for a number of years. This new post follows the resignation of Mrs Linda de Silva who, after 11 years, has stepped down and accepted a part-time position with us from June. We are pleased to keep her local knowledge within our organisation.
February 2019 - Are you interested in a healthy diet and / or losing weight?
The clinicians here at Freshwell are becoming increasingly excited about the low carbohydrate Mediterranean lifestyle revolution. There is emerging strong scientific evidence for the benefits of this way of eating, which can also be a very effective means of losing weight.
Also, we are hoping to host a course to help people diagnosed with prediabetes in the near future.
Please click the link in the right hand column of the homepage on this website for further details.
January 2019 - CHANGE TO STAFF TRAINING CLOSURE TIMES
We will be closed for training between 11am and 3pm on Thursday 31st January. From February 2019 we are changing our training times to be in line with all other practices in Mid Essex. We will be closing at 1pm and will not reopen on the following dates in 2019: Wed 13th Feb, Tue 12th Mar, Tue 14th May, Wed 12th Jun, Thu 11th Jul, Wed 11th Sep, Thu 10th Oct, Tue 12th Nov, Wed 11th Dec. These dates are also listed on our Opening Times page with details of what to do if you need urgent medical attention whilst we are closed.
April 2019 The Creamer Fund Easter raffle will be held here 8-16 April. Any suitable prizes will be gratefully received and can be left with our reception team. CREAMER are looking for Volunteers to assist selling tickets 8-16. Please leave your contact number with reception and their Social Secretary Sylvia Gould will contact you.
Extended Access and Care Navigation Update
The new care navigation system has been working really well so far. We are delighted that a pharmacist and an advanced nurse practitioner have now joined our team. In addition to these in-house appointments, there are also extended access appointments that our patients can access at weekends and in the evenings. These are held in Chelmsford, Halstead and Braintree. Please ask reception if you would prefer to see someone out of our opening hours at another location.
Aug 2018
Care Navigation
The Freshwell Management have recently been finding ways to diversify the clinical team at the surgery to add further expertise and capacity. Since February we have had an MSK specialist and from next month we will have a pharmacist available in-house. We also hope to recruit a nurse practitioner in the near future. On 3rd Sept we will be introducing a national process called Care Navigation. This involves the reception team asking why you are requesting an appointment. This information will be used to ensure that you are directed to the most appropriate clinician or service. When asked, please give a brief reason eg knee pain or medication review. Please be assured that all staff at Freshwell sign a confidentiality agreement and understand the importance of keeping your information safe and secure.
July 2018
Your Data Matters to the NHS
Information about your health and care helps the NHS to improve your individual care, speed up diagnosis, plan your local services and research new treatments.
Since May 2018, the strict rules about how this data can and cannot be used were strengthened. The NHS is committed to keeping patient information safe and always being clear about how it is used.
You can choose whether your confidential patient information is used for research and planning.
To find out more visit: www.nhs.uk/your-nhs-data-matters or call 0300 303 5678
If you have already opted out of data sharing you will NOT need to opt out again.
May 2018
With the General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR) coming into effect from 25th May 2018 we have been busy updating our policies to reflect the increased security surrounding your data. As part of our on-going commitment to data security you can now read and download our privacy notice along with our information leaflet on our website under further information or click here
April 2018
NHS England have advised the Mid Essex Clinical Commissioning Group that they must encourage all member practices to reduce the money spent on prescribing OTC (Over the Counter) medicines.
In the first instance, we will no longer be prescribing the following medicines to patients aged 18 year and over: cetirizine & loratadine tablets, sodium cromoglicate eye drops, beclometasone (beconase) or fluticasone (flixonase) nasal sprays. You will need to buy these from a chemist in future.
Click here for further information http://www.freshwell.co.uk/info.aspx?p=6
February 2018
When you book an appointment, please let the receptionist know a brief reason why you need to see a clinician. This will allow them to book you in with the most appropriate person. Thanks to CREAMER funding, we now have a Orthopaedic Specialist Practitioner working here twice a week. He is able to give advice regarding musculoskeletal injuries. You can book to see him directly without a referral from one of our doctors.
January 2018
Think #3beforeGP
The Royal College of General Practitioners is currently running a campaign asking everyone to help alleviate the pressure on GP Practices across the UK. It simply asks you to consider....
Before making a GP appointment, can I?
1) self-care
2) use NHS Choices or a similar reputable UK resource
3) seek advice from a pharmacist
December 2017
To improve communication we are introducing a new FREE text message appointment booking confirmation and reminder service for all patients aged 18yrs and over. If you would like to be included in this service please make sure we have your current mobile number.
If we already have your mobile phone number you will receive a text messaging asking if you would like to opt in/out of this service. If you choose to opt out this can be done by a simple return of text, but you can always opt in at a later date if you change your mind.
If you remain opted in you will start to receive text messages to confirm your appointment giving you the option to cancel your appointment directly by return of text.
Our plan is to expand this service to allow us to inform you if a clinic has been cancelled, the flu jabs are now available or if the Doctor would like you to book an appointment to discuss recent test results.
Please help us to keep your records up to date by informing us on any changes to your mobile telephone numbers to ensure you continue to be included in this text messaging service.
October 2017
Our children's flu vaccines have now arrived. Children who were 2 or 3 on 31st August 2017 are eligible. Please ring for an appointment if you would like your child vaccinated. Primary school aged children will be vaccinated at school.
We have now installed hearing loops at both the reception and dispensary counters. We would like to thank The CREAMER Fund for financing this important improvement to our practice for patients who are hard of hearing. We have added signs to each counter to help them know where to stand for the best reception. There is also a portable device available for use in the consultation rooms. Please ask at reception if you would like this to be made available when seeing a doctor or nurse. the portable device can be used without a hearing aid if necessary.
September 2017
We are now taking bookings for our flu clinic on Saturday 7th October. Eligible ADULT patients (over 65s, pregnant women, carers, patients with certain chronic diseases, immunosuppressed and obese patients) should phone reception to book. Further information relating to flu vaccinations for children will follow shortly.
August 2017
Our Summer 2017 Newsletter is now on the website and available to download. Head over to the newsletters page to find what has been happening behind the scenes at Freshwell Health Centre.
4th July 2017
Building works are currently underway at the surgery. Because we are having a new reception counter fitted the main entrance is not in use. Please follow the signs to enter at the rear of the building. We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.
June 2017
Please note that due to a technical error on the website previous news items have been lost.
Your surgery is the 10th Best in England
The Daily Mirror have looked at the National GP patient survey and found that The Freshwell Health Centre is in the Top 10 surgeries in England based on patient experience. The team here are very pleased to have that recognition. We are also grateful to all the help and support we get from the CREAMER fund. The input they give to the surgery is invaluable and does help us offer a service that meets the needs of our patient population. Read the article here: Top 10 Surgery Thank you too to the patients who filled in the survey and gave feedback to the NHS.
Are you interested in a healthy diet and / or losing weight?
We are delighted to announce that following our inspection in May 2016 the practice have received an outstanding rating from the Care Quality Commission. Please click here to view the report or visit cqc.org.uk. Freshwell Health Centre CQC Report 2016
We have installed a new automated check-in screen. This is on the left of the reception area. It is hoped that this will reduce queuing in the reception area. Using the screen is easy and there are clear instructions but if you would rather speak to a receptionist please do so. The reception team will help you if you have any queries.
If you have an urgent medical problem and you are unsure of the correct course of action to take, PLEASE DO CONTACT US FOR GUIDANCE IN THE FIRST INSTANCE.
For many years we have closed for training on the last Thursday of each month. From February 2019 we will be changing this to be in line with all other GP Practices in Mid Essex. The training dates (when we will be shut from 1pm) are listed on the rolling news and opening times.
Is available for anyone living within the Braintree District Council area who is unable to access public transport. The Council can provide affordable accessible transport to your appointment and home again. Please visit their website for more information www.braintree.gov.uk/communitytransport, e-mail them on email@example.com or call their friendly Team on 01376 557883.
Copyright 2006 - 2020 My Surgery Website | Privacy Notice | Edit | Staff Home | Site Map | Accessibility | Site T&C's | Cookie Policy


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It's been a little over 3 weeks since VIVIR UNIDOS. As soon as the event was over, I had to rush over to Cali (SF) to participate in the National Conference on Volunteering & Service to present the Community Engagement Toolbox and of course, sneak in some tacos! My welcome back to Austin came in a form of…more work, this time with some face to face time with a teleprompter (via youth engagement video project) y mas Hispanic Engagement workshop planning. So basically that means that I had very little time off. But oh well, gotta keep moving adelante right?
So here's recap (in case you're interested)…
Austin American-Statesman: United Way reaches out to Central Texas Latinos
GivingCity Magazine: Hundreds attend VIVIR UNIDOS party
Ahora Si: Buscan a latinos con ganas de ayudar
Community Engagement Toolbox
Click on the link below to view or download the 56 slide (yikes!) presentation
Now for the fun stuff…
My guest blog posts on SF Weekly: SF Taco Tour
Taco talk with TastyTouring on KGSR
Welcome back right? Siguimos Adelante!

subset: commoncrawl


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Cue the *NSYNC, because BlackBerry's co-founders may want the company back.
According to a regulatory filing released today, Mike Lazaridis, co-founder and former co-CEO of BlackBerry, and fellow co-founder Doug Fregin are kicking around the idea of bidding on the struggling firm.
Lazaridis and Fregin already own a combined 8% stake but have entered into an agreement "to explore the possibility of submitting a potential joint bid" for the shares owned by everyone else.
The company formerly known as RIM already entered into an initial offer agreement with a group led by Fairfax Financial Holdings for about $4.7 billion (about £2.93b, AU$4.98b).
Beggars apparently can be choosers.
Go it alone
According to sources of AllThingsD, the co-founders aren't working with Fairfax Financial on this.
The financial holdings firm is still trying to shore-up funding for a buy-out, and meanwhile the BlackBerry 10 maker has reportedly made passes at several tech firms, looking for any taker it can get.
Among the list of desired suitors are Cisco, SAP, Samsung and Intel. Bloomberg reported that while none are biting at the idea of picking up all of BlackBerry, some are open to the idea of owning parts of it.
The saga continues.


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*June 29 - July 5
Rough Start
MEMORY TEXT: Seeing that Abraham shall surely become a great and mighty nation, and all the nations of the earth shall be blessed in him? (Genesis 18:18).
FAMILY SQUABBLES. The books of Kings and Chronicles are, in many ways, a family history. Much of the Bibleat least the Old Testament, particularly the earliest booksis the same: It is the story of a family, not just any family, of course, but the family that comes from faithful (but flawed) Abraham, the one through whom all the nations of the earth shall be blessed (Gen. 18:18).
Unfortunately, as with so many families, the examples of Abrahams and his descendants families hardly present a model home. Kings and Chronicles continue what has been, and still is, a sad storyone with occasional and brilliant spasms of divine light, interspersed between the constant current of human darkness.
In Kings, starting in the first chapter, both the light and darkness are presented. Let us learn from both. Each has lessons for us, as we seek to cling to the Light amid the rush of darkness that surrounds us in this fallen world, just as it surrounded those of whom we are about to read.
THE WEEK AT A GLANCE: Why did Adornjah rebel? What was the cause of his rebellion? Why did Nathan side with David and Bathsheba? Are sins ever partially forgiven? Where is the foundation of forgiveness to be found? Can we still suffer from forgiven sins?
*(Study this week's lesson to prepare for Sabbath, July 6.)
Sunday June 30
Then Adonijah the son of Haggith exalted himself, saying, I will be king: and he prepared him chariots and horsemen, and fifty men to run before him (1 Kings 1:5).
The book of 1 Kings begins with what was to become a perennial problem in Israel and Judah, that of royal ascension. Israel was not, originally, supposed to have a king; God Himself would be their ruler (Judg. 8:23; 1 Sam. 12:12). However, once they had a king, it was not too long before they suffered from the many political problems associated with earthly government. Part of the book of Samuel, in fact, deals with David fleeing the wrath of Israels first king, Saul, who saw David as a political threat to his throne. The book of Kings itself starts with a similar problem, only now with the next generation. It was a rough start, indeed.
Who was Adonijah, and why did he think that he should be king? See 1 Kings 2:22. What other factors (see 1 Kings 1:6) contributed to his rebellious attitude?
Notice the words that Adonijah spoke: I will be king (vs. 5). How interesting that they reflect the words of another privileged biblical character, Lucifer, who exclaimed: I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God: I will sit also upon the mount of the congregation, in the sides of the north: I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will be like the most High (Isa. 14:13, 14). Adonijah reflects the same attitude of self-exaltation, the same desire for supremacy, that led to the fall of Lucifer, even to the point where he was willing to rebel. Read through verses 7-10 in 1 Kings ito see some of the things Adonijah did in an attempt to secure the throne, things that mirrored Lucifers acts during his rebellion in heaven (read Ellen G. White, The Great Controversy, p. 495).
|Whatever valid reasons Adonijah might have had for thinking the throne belonged to him (after all, he was the older brother [see 1 Kings 2:22]), his attitude and actions reveal a spirit of rebellion and self-exaltation. Can you find, in your own life, traces or hints of this same attitude? If so, how does looking at Jesus, at His acts and expression of self-renunciation and self-denial, protect us from this common and, oftentimes, subtle sin?
Wherefore Nathan spake unto Bathsheba the mother of Solomon, saying, Hast thou not heard that Adonijah the son of Haggith doth reign, and David our lord knoweth it not? (1 Kings 1:11).
Notice who first revealed to Bathsheba the plot against her and her son. It was Nathan the prophet, the same Nathan the prophet who had exposed Davids sin of adultery many years ago (2 Samuel 11; 12). Now, however, he is taking the side of David and Bathsheba, the two parties in that terrible episode.
Though we do not focus much on her part (the biblical emphasis was on David), Bathsheba suffered the consequences of adultery, as well. In contrast to David, Scripture gives numerous examples of those who, in similar situations, refused to succumb to pressure from abovewhatever kind it was: Joseph (Genesis 39), Vashti (Esther 1), Daniel (Daniel 6), to name a few.
What biblical examples can one find of those who refused to give in to people who attempted to use political power to bully them?
Nevertheless, regardless of Davids sin, he was forgiven. When forgiven, we are completely forgiven. Those who have accepted Christs righteousness (the only means of forgiveness) are covered in His perfection, the perfection that He wrought out in His life here. When God looks upon us, who have accepted Christ as our Righteousness, He no longer sees our sins, our failings, our shortcomings. Instead, He sees Jesus in all His holiness and sinlessness. There is no such thing as being partially forgiven. We are either wrapped in the robe of Christs perfect holiness or we stand in the shame of our own nakedness. When we are forgiven, our sins are, in a sense, forgotten by God.
For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their iniquities will I remember no more (Heb. 8:12). And their sins and iniquities will I remember no more (Heb. 10:17).
No wonder Nathan the prophet could side with David and Bathsheba, despite their terrible past.
|The good news of the gospel is that, no matter what our history has been, regardless of our past, or however low we have fallen, through the righteousness of Jesus, God, in a sense, wipes our past slate clean. Even more than that, He replaces that slate with the record and the perfection of Jesus. Dwell on what that good news means for you. Share with someone the freedom, the liberation, and the joy that this most wonderful of all truths provides.
Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth,
that shall he also reap
A man had been sexually abusing his young daughter for years. One night he had a miraculous conversion. Repenting, he dropped to his knees with bitterness and sorrow of heart and soul, confessed his sin, and with acid tears, pleaded with Jesus for forgiveness.
If his repentance was genuine, would he be forgiven? Be careful how you answer, because if you say Yes, then you are saying that this child molester, this man who perhaps a day before had been having sexual relations with his daughter, was now perfect in Christ. Perfect? Are you saying that this heinous sin was now pardoned by the blood of Christ and that this man now stood clothed in the perfect righteousness of Jesus? (See Rom. 3:22.)
Are you prepared to say that?
What else can you say? Where sin abounds, grace abounds more, right? (Rom. 5:20). Pardon to the chief of sinners, right? (1 Tim. 1:15). Christ died for the ungodly, right? (Rom. 5:6).
There is another side to the equation, however. Through Christ, God promises that our sins can be forgiven (Eph. 1:7; Col. 1:14). Davids and Bathshebas lives are great examples of that promise. God, however, never promises that we will be spared the immediate, earthly consequences of our sins, even those sins that have been forgiven.
Though the father could have been pardoned instantly from the legal consequences of his foul acts, the results of those foul acts were not disposed of so easily. One night of bitter weeping did not eradicate the results. On the contrary, the abused little girl had crumbled into an emotionally destroyed adult, who, for years, suffered from alcoholism, suicidal depression, and drug use that destroyed two marriages, leaving in her wake four children, all of whom paid dearly because of their mothers emotional woeall brought upon them by sins that had long ago been pardoned!
|Ellen White tells us that even though Davids sin had been forgiven, the results were seen for generations afterward. Who knows, perhaps Adonijahs rebellion indirectly resulted from the lack of respect that fomented in the house because of sins that already had been forgiven. How nice, indeed, if relief from the consequences of our sins could come as fast as pardon for them does. It, however, rarely works that way. What lessons can we learn from this painful story?
Nathan the prophet goes to Bathsheba and warns her about Adonijahs political machinations and plots. The issue here, at least as far as she and her son are concerned, is greater than just who will be the next king.
What did Nathan say would happen to Bathsheba and Solomon if Adonijah became king? Why would such a measure be taken if Adonijah succeeded?
It is interesting that Nathan would be so sure that Adonijahs succession would lead to the death of Bathsheba and Solomon. Maybe he was looking at how Saul had responded to the threat of David; maybe he was looking at what happened to the nations around them. Whatever the reasons, even in this early stage of Israels history, when there had been only two kings so far, Nathan saw the danger that awaited those who lost out in the bid for power. All this was happening in the nation that was to represent the true God to the world? See Deuteronomy 4:5-8. How quickly the corruptions of the world had infiltrated the Hebrew nation! No wonder God did not want them to have an earthly king.
David had promised Bathsheba that Solomon, her son, would reign after him. Why did David make that promise to her?
First Chronicles 22 makes it clear that Solomon was to follow his father on the throne. And David said to Solomon, My son, as for me, it was in my mind to build an house unto the name of the Lord my God: But the word of the Lord came to me, saying, Thou hast shed blood abundantly, and hast made great wars: thou shalt not build an house unto my name, because thou hast shed much blood upon the earth in my sight. Behold, a son shall be born to thee, who shall be a man of rest; and I will give him rest from all his enemies round about: for his name shall be Solomon, and I will give peace and quietness unto Israel in his days (1 Chron. 22:7-9). David, obviously, felt a divine imperative to stop Adonijah. His choice was not arbitrary. He was simply following Gods Word to him.
|Look at the royal mess caused by Israels choice to have an earthly king. Why did the Lord, who knows the beginning from the end, allow them to make such a disastrous decision? In the same way, in our own lives, we have the same freedom to make right or wrong choices. How crucial that we weigh our options before turning them into decisions.
And the king sware, and said, As the Lord liveth, that hath redeemed my soul out of all distress, even as I sware unto thee by the Lord God of Israel, saying, Assuredly Solomon thy son shall reign after me, and he shall sit upon my throne in my stead; even so will I certainly do this day (1 Kings 1:29, 30).
In haste, and probably in a certain amount of fear, Solomon was named by David as his successor to the throne. More than likely this was not how David envisioned his son to succeed him, even though great rejoicing erupted in the city (vss. 39, 40). David was able to bring some personal good out of it, though: Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, who has given one to sit on my throne this day, while my eyes see it! (1 Kings 1:48, NKJV). David was able to see the promise being fulfilled that God had made long ago to him. No doubt, he viewed this as another way in which the Lord was being gracious to him.
Meanwhile, Adonijah had tried to usurp that throne, not just from Solomon but from David, who was still alive and still king when the son proclaimed I will be king! (vs. 5). Thus, this was a coup against the reigning monarch, not just a bid for power between rival contenders. His was a full-blown revolution in which he had a lot of support, even from within the kings own family (see 1 Kings 1:9).
After his revolt failed, Adonijah obviously felt that he had reason to fear, now that Solomon was king, which is why he found sanctuary and asylum by taking hold on the horns of the altar (vss. 50, 51). Though, perhaps, Solomon could have felt justified in immediately putting to death the one who, more than likely, would have had no qualms about eliminating him, Solomon, instead, gave him a chance to redeem himself:
And Solomon said, If he will shew himself a worthy man, there shall not an hair of him fall to the earth: but if wickedness shall be found in him, he shall die. So king Solomon sent, and they brought him down from the altar. And he came and bowed himself to king Solomon: and Solomon said unto him, Go to thine house (1 Kings 1:52, 53).
In what ways can one see, in Solomons words to Adonijah, hints of the new kings wisdom, graciousness, and greatness in this, his first recorded act as sovereign? Though, as it turns out, his first act probably was a mistake (see 1 Kings 2:13-28), Solomon at least erred on the side of mercy and graciousness. If we, who usually do not have the wisdom of Solomon, are going to err at times, as well, why should it not be on the side of mercy and grace too?
In the context of what went on in the first chapter of the first book of Kings, read these words: Though the books of Kings present the history of the Hebrew rulers from the death of David and the reign of Solomon to the final destruction of the kingdoms of Israel and Judah, the primary purpose is not to present the facts of history for the sake of history. There is history, but it is presented with a purposeto show how the experiences of the Hebrews relate to the plans and purposes of God. The object was not so much to write a detailed chronicle of the bald facts of history as to present the lessons of history. The compiler of these books had a deep religious motive and a very practical aim. The children of Israel were the people of God, and it was their task to fulfill the divine purpose and live out on earth the principles of the kingdom of heaven. Righteousness was to be the foundation for national prosperity. Sin could end only in ruin. If true to its divine mission, the nation would grow in strength and greatness. If kings and rulers failed to live up to the divine purpose, Israel as a people would perish. The nation could not exist without righteousness and without God.The SDA Bible Commentary, vol. 2, p. 717: Theme.
Meichie Tonog
I was a new student missionary in the Manobo village. My partner had gone to Mountain View College for our monthly report, leaving me alone in the village. I planned to use her absence to get to know my students and work on learning the language.
But my partner did not return when she planned. A week passed, and still she had not returned. Then I learned that she had to go home to care for her seriously ill mother. I was on my own. The Manobo children comforted me and helped me cope. After class I visited homes in the village. At one little home I found a young mother crying.
What is wrong, Ayo? I asked. Then I heard her babys gasping breath. He was congested with thick phlegm and could barely breathe.
I checked his temperature; it was dangerously high. I had no medicines, but I sponged him to bring his fever down, but it remained high. Ayo, I said, Let us ask God to heal your baby. She consented.
Dear God, I prayed, You are the Great Physician. We need Your presence and Your help. Please touch this baby with Your healing and make him well again. In Jesus name, Amen.
Thank you, Ayo said.
The babys breathing did not improve. Desperate, I told Ayo, We must take the baby to the hospital.
Ayo looked at me, puzzled. But why? Weve prayed, havent we? We need only to trust in God, and my baby will be well.
But Ayo, I am not a doctor, and your baby is so sick! I pleaded.
Ayo looked straight at me. Town is a three-hour hike down a steep mountain and across many rivers. Then we must ride two more hours on the rough road to the nearest hospital. My baby might die on the way. And when we get to the hospital, the doctor will charge us much money for medicine. Do you have money? I shook my head No. It is enough that we prayed. God will heal my baby, she smiled confidently.
I stayed with Ayo and her baby a while longer. Before leaving, I offered another prayer.
The next morning I hurried to check on Ayos baby. Hes well! Ayo greeted me with a smile. I took the babys temperature. The fever was gone. He was well!
Choked with tears, I offered a Thank-You prayer. Then silently I added, Lord, please help me to have faith like Ayo.
Meichie Tonog is a SULAD student missionary from Mountain View College serving in the village of Dapilo-an in southern Philippines.
Join the SSNET moderated email discussion group. You are also warmly invited to join a group discussion of this lesson Sabbath morning with your local Seventh-day Adventist congregation.
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Wrong-way Milwaukee driver charged
Cameras capture 6-mile wrong-way trip Dec. 14
A Hales Corners woman seen driving the wrong way on a Milwaukee interstate highway now faces charges.
Alicia Sulok, 33, faces a felony count of recklessly endangering safety in the Dec. 14 incident.
VIDEO: Cameras catch woman driving wrong way for six miles
Wisconsin Department of Transportation cameras showed Sulok's vehicle traveling south in the northbound lanes of Interstate 43 around 2:20 a.m.
According to the criminal complaint, a Milwaukee County Sheriff's deputy was traveling north on I-43 near Chase Avenue when he saw Sulok's car traveling toward him without headlights on.
The deputy and Sulok were in the same lane of traffic until the deputy swerved to avoid a collision.
The complaint said Sulok continued southbound after the near-collision and several other vehicles swerved to avoid her car.
According to the criminal complaint, the deputy then drove next to Sulok on the other side of the median, and she pulled over at Howard Avenue. The complaint states Sulok "stared confusingly at the deputy as if she had no idea of her surroundings or her behavior." The sheriff's office said Sulok then looked away and drove off into oncoming traffic.
The complaint states Sulok finally came to a stop south of the Mitchell Interchange, and deputies smelled a strong odor of intoxicants on her breath.
Documents indicate that Sulok's field sobriety tests showed impairment, and a field breath test indicated a blood alcohol level of 0.18.
Sulok has no prior record. The commissioner released her without cash bail.


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President Obama has a Jewish Problem.
The left's hostility to Israel is ancient news. (Even members of the pathetic Park Slope Food Co-op tried to ban Israeli-made products from the store.)
But in a revealing episode tarring the Democratic National Convention, we learned last week who Israel's friends are. And who would ape Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, and enjoy seeing the Jewish state wiped from the map.
On Wednesday, Republicans put out the word that "God'' had been edited from the Democratic platform. Plus, a passage stating that Jerusalem is the capital of Israel vanished — poof! — like Jews from Germany.
What to do? At the 11th hour, these slights were called to attention of Obama. Which raises the questions: Did the president know about the platform changes, and ignore them? Or should he have known, but was kept out of the loop?
The platform malfunction could threaten the support, particularly financial, that Obama enjoys from Jews. So scrambling Democratic leaders said the president personally reinserted both "Jerusalem" and "God."
But not without a vicious fight.
Los Angeles Mayor and convention Chair Antonio Villaraigosa called for a voice vote from delegates to restore the words, which should have been routine. Instead, "those who shouted opposition to the language change were as loud, if not louder, than those who voiced their support,'' is how the liberal Huffington Post described it.
Villaraigosa awkwardly asked for second vote. Same thing. He looked around the hall for guidance, but the almighty was noticeably absent.
The third time delegates voted, it seemed the "nays'' had it, and "God'' and "Jerusalem'' would remain on the cutting-room floor. But Villaraigosa declared that two-thirds had approved, and the measure passed.
The crowd booed, loudly.
The episode reveals the deep rifts between Dem moderates and the far-left wing, emboldened by a president perceived as a pal. As charged in the surprise documentary hit, Dinesh D'Souza's "2016: Obama's America,'' the president is blatantly hostile to Israel and deferential to the Arab world.
He's called on Israel to return to its pre-1967 borders, which Israelis say would make the country unable to defend itself. He enraged Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu by doing, as D'Souza says, "nothing significant" to prevent Iran from acquiring nukes.
Obama was spiritually advised for decades by a fierce anti-Semite, the Rev. Jeremiah Wright. (Greatest hit: "God damn America!") During the last campaign, he was advised by Zbigniew Brzezinski, national security adviser to noted anti-Semite Jimmy Carter. (Brzezinski groused that the United States' special relationship with Israel resulted from Jewish pressure.)
Jews traditionally vote Democratic by 3-to-1, but Obama can't afford to lose the support of voters like Terri Rose:
"The party has gone to a place in which I no longer feel comfortable. God being taken out of the platform seems like the Democratic Party is taking the place of the higher authority.
"Jerusalem being taken out of the platform, I think, was designed to appease Palestinian sympathizers who have grown both in number and in voice."
Said Dem pal Michael Shapiro, "The anti-Semites are getting bolder and more influential."
The convention debacle plunged Jewish leaders into damage-control mode. Democratic National Committee Chair Debbie Wasserman Schultz told CNN there was "no discord" when the platform was amended — making Anderson Cooper accuse Schultz of living in an "alternate reality."
New York Sen. Chuck Schumer minimized the Jerusalem diss. "It was just sort of left out." And so on.
The president must take a clear stand on Israel and its haters. His Jewish Problem won't go away.
Please tarnish Silver!
State Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver, the sex fiend's best buddy, seemed ready to walk away from disgraceful behavior without a scratch. Not so fast!
Silver arranged to pay $103,080 of taxpayer hush money to two alleged victims of Assemblyman Vito "Gropez'' Lopez, accused of putting his filthy hands on at least four young staffers.
But two days after The Post reported that the special prosecutor in the case, Staten Island DA Dan Donovan, planned to let Shelly skate, Supreme Court Justice Fern Fisher stopped the insanity. She authorized Donovan on Friday to give the powerful lawmaker no special breaks.
As well as investigating Lopez, Donovan now will look into possible violations related to the payoff. Is the boys' club doomed?
The Albany cesspool must be cleaned.
It's a gho$t of a chance
Staten Island cop Paul Pizzuto was fired for ticketing dead people, a police version of "The Sixth Sense.'' But he contends in a state Supreme Court lawsuit that he should not have been canned because he was just trying to meet ticket quotas that the NYPD denies even exist. I have a solution.
The city could raise revenue by fiercely ticketing entitled bicycle riders. Like the menace who blew through a red light and into a crosswalk last week, laughing as he narrowly missed scoring a direct hit. Getting serious about rogue riders will help us all.
Ripping off state taxes is an 'art'
Owners of the upstate jiggle joint Nite Moves have asked the state's highest court to classify $20 lap dances put on by the club's buxom babes as "dramatic or musical arts performances'' — exempt from state sales tax.
Hey, why not? The government supported Andres Serrano's photo of a crucifix submerged in the artist's urine with a $15,000 federal grant. Courts upheld the Brooklyn Museum's right to display Chris Ofili's painting of the Virgin Mary caked in elephant dung.
Culture vultures on the Court of Appeals should open their eyes and empty their wallets.
Naked cuties grinding against slobbering patrons may be one guy's pleasure. But they're another man's art.
Oh, this poor kid
"For me, it was, like, 'OK, whatever.' "
Ireland Baldwin, 16, told Page Six Magazine that she scoffed at dad Alec's infamously scary voicemail.
The bloviating actor railed at his daughter, then 11 — calling her a "rude, thoughtless little pig'' — for having missed his phone call.
She excused his hobby of roughing up photographers (and journos like me on Twitter), saying he's "pretty frustrated'' by the attention he brings upon himself.
Tragically, the bully's chief enabler is just a kid.


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Mass shootings survivors, victims' relatives gather in Oak Creek
Community remembers Sikh temple shooting
Survivors and loved ones of those killed in other mass shootings gathered in Oak Creek on Monday for the anniversary of the Sikh temple shooting.
Carlee Soto's sister died shielding her first-grade students from a gunman at Sandy Hook Elementary School in December. She said it was her duty to come for the Sikh temple shooting anniversary.
"I still can't believe it happened, and it's still so unreal to me," said Soto. "I needed to be here for them, like they were there for us."
Sam Granillo is a survivor of the Columbine High School shootings. He also lost a friend during the Colorado movie theater shootings in 2012.
"It's incredible to have so many people from all over the place really come together, connect, create communities, because this is the foundation of what's going to help you long term in terms of healing," said Granillo.
Nardyne Jeffries lost her teen daughter in a mass shooting in the nation's capital.
"Making deadly choices leaves a path of destruction that (despite) many years, you can never recover from. After three years, I still don't sleep well," said Jeffries.
Those who gathered Monday hope there will be less gun violence in the country.


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Earlier today, we enjoyed some footage of Rob Gronkwoski boogieing at XS Nightclub in Las Vegas. Thanks to reader Tony, we have been blessed with even more Gronktastic dancing. Although this clip doesn't feature any wrestling moves, it does have the added hilarity of a nearly naked guy with a cardboard box on his head joining Gronk and his bros on stage. And you won't want to miss Gronk's spirited booty-popping at the 28-second mark.
We thought that last summer's shirtless, Bud Light-fueled rampage through every bar and nightclub in America was a one-time thing for Gronk. The Patriots reportedly put the kibosh on it last July. But a second Summer of Gronk has arrived, and it's already off to a roaring start. We're excited.


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My Own Written Song "Christmas Evening"
"Christmas Evening" is Marie-Juliette's first self written song, centered entirely on the visit from the Three Wise Men to Jesus Christ on his Brith. "Christmas Evening" is available on the online store on this website, but of course also downloadable on iTunes, GooglePlay, and Amazon!
On the 28th of October I will be giave a Benefit concert.
Photoshoot in Buenos Aires
Recording my newTango Album
I'm now currently working on my upcoming Album "Tangos" in Buenos Aires...
Rose of Summer
(Click on the picture below)


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On its own, a project to improve the water and sanitation systems in booming areas of Saudi Arabia represents a critical undertaking. The project is a crucial step toward protecting the public health for generations to come.
Ali Qarni Al-Rizqi Contracting took the improvements many steps further by thoroughly assessing their construction processes—particularly their method for removing asphalt. The firm then made adjustments that reduced cost, consumption of resources, and exhaust emissions. Two keys to Ali Qarni Al-Rizqi's efforts were finding a creative solution, and their willingness to implement that solution during the project.
The result was a win for all involved. Ali Qarni Al-Rizqi Contracting found an improved, more efficient process. The Saudi Arabian government saw the work completed more quickly, limiting the interruptions to businesses and citizens. The government's costs were reduced as well.
The people of Saudi Arabia, meanwhile, received significant upgrades to their water and sanitation systems—with limited interruptions and reduced emissions in their neighborhoods.
Ali Qarni Al-Rizqi Contracting is a national Saudi company established in 1979. Its primary work is infrastructure projects, including water connections and sanitation, in all regions of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Clients include numerous governmental agencies—most notably the Ministry of Water and Electricity and the National Water Company.
Those governmental entities saw the need to install new systems in Riyadh—specifically the Azizieh, Bader, Faisaliah, Dar Baidah and Erejah areas. It was a significant undertaking, with a cost of 135 million Saudi Riyals.
The project consisted of removing a layer of asphalt from existing roadways so that pipe could be placed below ground. The asphalt had to be cut at a depth of 5-15 cm but the real challenge—and ultimately the found efficiency—lay in the width of the cut.
The pipelayers needed a cut only 1 m wide. However, the work required a straight edge. This left Ali Qarni Al-Rizqi with few desirable alternatives.
First, it could use a wider cold planing machine that removed more material than necessary. But this approach meant material would have to be unnecessarily removed, transported and replaced. Most milling machines in the country work at a minimum width of 2 m, meaning twice as much material would be removed as necessary. Spending and waste would be increased significantly.
Ali Qarni Al-Rizqi realized the costs of using a wider cold planer were too much. This led the contractor to utilize a skid steer loader with a cold planing work tool attachment.
That is how the project began. The skid steer loader and attachment made a pass, removing the asphalt. A small wheel loader then loaded the material onto a truck, which transported it from the jobsite.
This process created several problems. First, the skid steer loader did not provide adequate production. The machine would have worked adequately, for a limited time, on a smaller project. But the pipelaying project was a tremendous undertaking in many areas of the city.
Loading created another challenge. A small wheel loader was the machine of choice because of its size, and the fact it didn't further inhibit traffic on the crowded city streets. Also, a large wheel loader simply wasn't necessary to keep pace with the slow-moving skid steer loader and cold planer attachment.
However, the small loader couldn't reach over the sides of larger haul trucks. That meant multiple, smaller trucks had to be utilized—which increased cost, fuel consumption, engine exhaust and jobsite congestion.
The contractors were well aware of what they had: A slow project with many moving parts.
Ali Qarni Al-Rizqi is an innovative contractor always looking for ways to improve processes. An ongoing project evaluation led the contractor to explore the use of a Cat® PM102 Cold Planer.
Ali Qarni Al-Rizqi learned the PM102 is capable of working at a width of a single meter. Yet its power of 168 kW meant the machine could move at a much faster pace than the skid steer loader and attachment.
The PM102 leaves a straight edge, meeting that requirement. But what about the loading challenges?
An on-site demonstration of the machine caught the attention of the leaders of Ali Qarni Al-Rizqi. The cold planer removed the materials and its conveyor delivered them directly to a haul truck. The conveyor easily reached over the side, where the small wheel loader couldn't.
Now the contractor saw the possibilities: Cutting and loading could be integrated into a single step. There would be no reason for a wheel loader, and the project would move much more quickly than with the skid steer loader. The contractor could achieve production that equaled a larger cold planer but at a fraction of the operating costs and waste.
Training was provided to the operators of the PM102, ensuring its potential was realized. The project proceeded at a much more rapid pace.
Many infrastructure improvements are occurring in Saudi Arabia as the country experiences tremendous growth. That growth also tightens timelines. Streets are conduits of commerce, and interruptions impact many.
The growth also puts tremendous demand on the existing systems, meaning projects need to be completed quickly to relieve pressure.
These challenges are being met head on by a contractor that will consider new methods and take advantage of available machinery that perfectly matches the project requirements.
The water and sanitation project in Saudi Arabia proves, once again, that found efficiencies have far-reaching benefits. In this case, the time savings provided quicker relief to the stressed systems, helping prevent unhealthy failures. Cost-savings, meanwhile, helped officials fund new improvements ahead of schedule.
The time and money saved have been well spent. The ultimate beneficiaries are the generations of Saudis who will realize improved public health—and ultimately a better quality of life.
We've put the tools you need to succeed right at your fingertips—including mobile apps, calculators, application guides and more. Unlock the value inside our online paving resource center today. It's just one more way we're with you from the ground up.Unlock Resources


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Beat the Streak Report: Monday, May 19
Today's Top Picks
Lance Berkman, 1B, Astros
.535 AVG during 17-game hit streak
.399 AVG overall in '08
Alfonso Soriano, OF, Cubs
.556 AVG in last 9 G
4-for-7 since '03 vs. HOU RHP Brian Moehler
Ryan Zimmerman, 3B, Nationals
9-for-22 (.409) vs. PHI RHP B. Myers
Yesterday's most selected players
Manny Ramirez (BOS): 5.7% of picks, 1-for-5
Derek Jeter (NYY): 4.4%, 1-for-3
Chipper Jones (ATL): 4.2%, 1-for-3
Lance Berkman (HOU): 3.5%, 2-for-5
Ichiro Suzuki (SEA): 3.5%, 1-for-3
Yesterday's top fan results
The current overall Beat the Streak leader went with yesterday's most popular pick, and it paid off — albeit at the 11th hour, as Manny went hitless in his first four at-bats before collecting a single on a sharp grounder to left in Boston's final at-bat in the bottom of the eighth.
Meanwhile, two fans extended their streak to 29 games thanks to the efforts of Michael Young (1-for-4) and Albert Pujols (3-for-5).
3 Comments
Early favorite in the clubhouse for Most Popular MLBlog Not Named The Pulse or Inside The Dodgers.
Do you know if MLB will be starting an official MLB Beat the Streak: Home Run Edition blog, similar to this one, at any point?
Also, will this blog be updated every day?
Finally, do you know when the MLB.com Survivor contest plans to start, since the 2007 page said it would be starting again in March and yet it is May 20 and still says "Coming Soon."???
Some answers:
1) We have yet to determine whether we'll be starting a Home Run Beat the Streak blog.
2) The BTS Report will be updated every weekday for now, but Friday?s blog will include picks for the entire weekend.
3) MLB.com Survivor is scheduled to launch June 2.
— The MLB.com Fantasy Staff


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Turns out "Two and a Half Men" is not exactly a cultural indicator. Single women are not desperate to marry. Single men get baby fever. And women want more personal space in relationships than men do.
These are just a few of the findings from a comprehensive new study of 5,200 singles in America.
"Stereotypes of men are being dashed. Stereotypes of women are being dashed. Stereotypes of older people are being dashed," says biological anthropologist Helen Fisher, who helped facilitate the study, along with social historian Stephanie Coontz and evolutionary biologist Justin Garcia. It was funded by dating site Match.com. "It's a reflection of a real shift in attitudes in so many areas."
Some highlights
96 million: The number of single people in the United States, roughly one-third of the population.
43 percent of single women ages 35-44 answered yes to the question: "Do you want to get married?" 36 percent of men answered yes. In the 21-34 age range, 63 percent of single women and 61 percent of single men answered yes.
51 percent of men ages 21-34 want kids, versus 46 percent of women in the same age group.
54 percent of singles have had a one-night stand, while 36 percent are open to a casual hookup in the near future. 35 percent have had a one-night stand that turned into a long-term partnership.
77 percent of women in a committed relationship say they "need personal space," versus 58 percent of men. 35 percent of women want "regular nights out" with friends, versus 23 percent of men.
Singles age 65 and over report the greatest level of happiness during the last 12 months, followed by 21- to 24-year-olds. Seniors are also less likely than any other age group to compromise on either love or sexual attractiveness in order to have a committed relationship.
20 percent of men and 29 percent of women said finding a partner of their own ethnic background is a "must have" or "very important."
"We've turned away from pleasing society and pleasing our parents and pleasing cultural norms with who we marry in favor of building a lasting relationship with our very personal need for intimacy and compatibility in mind," says Fisher, an adviser for Chemistry.com and Match.com.


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(The Root) — This image is part of a weekly series that The Root is presenting in conjunction with the Image of the Black in Western Art Archive at Harvard University's W.E.B. Du Bois Institute for African and African American Research.
A scene of suffering answered by charity takes place in a crude dwelling, engendering a moving tableau between the humble and the exalted in the city of Boston. This work in plaster served as the model for a bronze panel on the base of a monument to the Catholic priest Jean-Louis Lefebvre de Cheverus (1768-1836), erected in his hometown of Mayenne, France.
Cheverus' emerging clerical career in France was cut short by the French Revolution. In 1796, while in exile in Great Britain, he was appointed to undertake missionary work in New England. He became the first Catholic bishop of Boston in 1810 and was later elevated to the rank of cardinal.
Four reliefs on the base of the monument celebrate the popular clergyman's renowned piety and devotion to the poor. The scenes depict his mission to the Native Americans, his benevolence toward the ailing wife of an absent sailor, his prayer for the rescue of his ship at sea and, as seen here, his solicitude for a poor, bedridden man. The striking examples of Cheverus' charity depicted on the monument are taken from a popular biography published by a colleague shortly after his death.
According to this source, Cheverus heard of a black man lying ill and neglected in a shack along one of Boston's main thoroughfares. He hastened to the man's side and then faithfully came early every morning to light a fire, dress his sores and make sure he was comfortable for the rest of the day. Overcome by curiosity, his servant followed him one day and is seen here peeking through the door at the right.
The bishop holds the black man in an act exemplary of Jesus' parable to his disciples regarding compassion for the unfortunate (Matthew 25:35-36): "I was naked and you clothed me, ill and you cared for me … " The Christian content of the benevolent act is made explicit by the interaction of the two men.
As Cheverus wraps the black man's arm, the afflicted man gazes upward into the eyes of his benefactor, his lips nearly touching the cross suspended before him. The motive of salvation, defined by its air of intense devotion, may be seen simply as a demonstration of Cheverus' universal charity but also recalls the passive depiction of blacks in contemporary anti-slavery imagery.
Cheverus was active in Boston amid a growing climate of abolitionism and black self-agency. Most of the notable advances in the social and legal status of blacks resulted from the resolute self-determination of the African-American citizenry.
The African Meeting House was founded in 1806 by several prominent blacks who were dissatisfied with their religious experience in white congregations. During the latter half of the 1820s, David Walker, a pioneering abolitionist, rejected all affronts to his race, taking Thomas Jefferson to task for his racist views of blacks and urging fellow blacks into action against slavery and discrimination.
What separated the early abolitionists from Cheverus was their unswerving commitment to radical social change through legal and at times extralegal advocacy. His dedication to the conservative religious and political authority of prerevolutionary France, represented by Catholicism and the divine right of kings, would seem to have embraced an altogether different form of altruism, one that alleviated social ills within the established order of things. In this regard, one wonders how he felt when the oppressed slaves of Haiti took matters into their own hands and revolted against their French masters.
The Image of the Black in Western Art Archive resides at Harvard University's W.E.B. Du Bois Institute for African and African American Research. The director of the W.E.B. Du Bois Institute is Henry Louis Gates Jr., who is also The Root's editor-in-chief. The archive and Harvard University Press collaborated to create The Image of the Black in Western Art book series, eight volumes of which were edited by Gates and David Bindman and published by Harvard University Press. Text for each Image of the Week is written by Sheldon Cheek.
The Image of the Black Archive & Library resides at Harvard University's Hutchins Center for African and African American Research. The founding director of the Hutchins Center is Henry Louis Gates Jr., who is also chairman of The Root. The archive and Harvard University Press collaborated to create The Image of the Black in Western Art book series, eight volumes of which were edited by Gates and David Bindman and published by Harvard University Press. Text for each Image of the Week is written by Sheldon Cheek.


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Recipe Swap: Pork & Apple Pot Pie with Rosemary Gruyere Biscuits
It's recipe swap time again!
For those of you who are unfamiliar, I am part of a group of bloggers that reinterprets recipes from an old cookbook called "All Day Singin' and Dinner on the Ground". CM at Burwell General Store started the recipe swap this past December, and for the very first swap it was just Christianna and I, making our best persimmon creations. And here we are, just a few swaps later (this is our 4th recipe swap), the group has grown to 13 members! If you'd like to see a full story of how the swap began, a full list of recipe swap participants, as well each participant's recipe swap creation please visit CM's dedicated Recipe Swap Page (It'll be worth it, I promise. SO MANY AMAZING BLOGS!).
For this particular recipe swap, Christianna asked us to recreated "Grandma's Chicken Pie with Drop Biscuits". I was really excited when I heard that she had picked this recipe, as the last couple of recipes we've reinterpreted were originally sweet dishes. I was ready to take on a savory challenge. I'm a sucker for a good pot pie, and with all the wretched weather we've had lately, this dish sounded like the answer to all of my winter woes.
I've made a few different pot pies over the years, and they never fail me. Pot pie is always delicious. Always! So with my reinterpretation of "Grandma's pot pie", I wanted to stay true to the spirit of the original recipe. I wanted the flavors to be simple and classic. I wanted the dish to be warm, hearty, and comforting. After gazing at various recipes online and searching my own brain for inspiration I finally settled on this: Pork and Apple Mini Pot Pies with Rosemary Gruyere Biscuits.
Here's the thing with this dish: it sounds fancy and complicated, but it really isn't. The ingredient list is simple and made up of mostly pantry staples. The flavors are classic and familiar (Nich actually said that it "tasted like Thanksgiving"). Quite frankly, the only thing you need for this recipe is a bit of time and planning. This is the perfect lazy Sunday dish, as you can pop it in the oven and let the pork slowly braise while you accomplish other things (or laze on the couch and watch a No Reservations marathon. It happens.)
As always, I had a great time participating in the recipe swap. Yet again, I was forced to be creative and think outside of the box…and I loved the results! I loved the biscuit topping so much, that I've already made the biscuits again on their own (they can be slightly modified with more flour to be rolled out and cut into traditional biscuits). I'm quite sure this pot pie will find a place in our winter meal rotation.
Please do scroll down to see my recipe and tips on making this delicious dish. And check out the gorgeous dishes my fellow swappers created!
The recipe swap currently includes: CM @ Burwell General Store, Boulder Locavore, The Tomato Tart, Chef Dennis @ More than a Mountful, Spicy Living, The Unexpected Harvest, The Adventuresome Kitchen, The Cake Dutchess, Good Food Week, Fat and Happy, The Herbed Kitchen, and Cindy @ Tyro Tidbits
Mini Pork & Apple Pot Pies with Rosemary Gruyere Biscuit Topping
(Pork filling adapted from Bitchin Camero)
For the pork & apple filling
1 tbsp. olive oil
3 lbs of pork shoulder, divided into 6 equal pieces
1 tbsp. salt
1 tbsp. freshly ground pepper
2 yellow onions, diced
2 cups chicken stock
2 granny smith apples, peeled, cored and sliced
2 tsp. fresh thyme leaves
2 tsp. fresh rosemary
1 bay leaf
Dash of cayenne pepper
For biscuit topping
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
1 stick (8 tablespoons) chilled unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
1/2 cup finely grated gruyere cheese
2 teaspoons of finely chopped rosemary
1 cup well-shaken buttermilk
Preheat oven to 275 degrees.
First, trim any excess fat from the pork shoulder pieces. Sprinkle all sides of the pork with salt and pepper.
Using a dutch oven (or other oven-proof pot), heat olive oil over medium heat (on the stovetop). Once the oil is hot, add in the pork (if the pan is too crowded you may have to cook in batches). Brown the pork shoulder pieces until nicely browned on each side (a few minutes per side). Remove the pork to a plate.
Add the diced onions to the pot and cook until tender, about 5 minutes. Add in rosemary and thyme, stir, and cook for one minute more. Place the pork shoulder pieces back in the pot and add the stock, bay leaf, and a dash of cayenne pepper. Once the stock comes to a rapid simmer, transfer pot to preheated oven. Cook for 1 – 2 hours, turning pieces occasionally, or until the pork is fork-tender. (My pork took 2+ hours to reach desired tenderness)
Once the pork is fork-tender, remove from pot and transfer to a plate. Using 2 forks, pull the meat apart into large chunks. Once the pork is "pulled" to your liking, add the apples and a bit more fresh thyme to the pot and cook on the stovetop over medium high heat. (Meanwhile: turn your oven heat up to 350) Allow this mixture to simmer until most of the cooking liquid has reduced (about 10 minutes). Taste and add salt and pepper if needed. *Note: be careful not to overcook the apples, as you will bake these mini pot pies in the oven and the apples will continue to soften. For now, just cook until the apples are starting to become tender.
Scoop the contents of pot into individual ramekins (I had enough for 4 sizeable ramekins with a little meat leftover for snacking).
Now, to make the biscuit topping.
In a large bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and pepper. Blend in the chilled butter cubes with a pastry cutter, 2 knives, or your fingertips until the mixture resembles a coarse meal (I always find that using my fingers works best). Add in cheese and rosemary, mix to combine. Then, add in the buttermilk and stir until just combined.
Drop a large dollop of the biscuit mixture on top of each ramekin, and spread to make sure the pork mixture is covered by the biscuit dough. Bake in a 350 degree oven for 15-20 minutes, or until biscuits are golden brown. When the biscuits are done, remove from oven and allow pot pies to cool for 10-15 minutes before serving. Warning: they will be VERY hot!
24 CommentsLeave a Comment
Boulder Locavore / Mar 6 2011 5:25 pm
Gorgeous! I almost died when you announced what you would be making. It is a total 'updo' of Grandma's original. The flavors sound incredible. You are so inspired Linsday! Glad to get an early peek! Also agree about loving the swap and the push on my thinking.
C.M. Reinhardt / Mar 6 2011 8:24 pm
I heart you. And your gruyere! Always love seeing your creations, they are so inspiring to me.
sarah, simply cooked / Mar 7 2011 1:34 am
I have noticed that you usually come up with an inventive twist on things, Lindsay. 🙂 This sounds delicious–and simple, as you said.
Sara Tetreault / Mar 7 2011 7:23 am
Lindsay, this looks heavenly! My family isn't crazy about fruit with meat but I love it and may just slip it in to see if anyone notices. Your pictures look amazing with this post, also. Great job.
Katie / Mar 7 2011 9:38 am
Lindsay this looks amazing! I hate cooking meat, but I think I'm just going to have to now 🙂
Sabrina Modelle / Mar 7 2011 11:51 am
Oh Lindsay, this looks divine! Pork and apples are the best combination. I can only imagine how tender and sweet that pork shoulder is. The gruyere biscuit is just over the top deliciousness. Loving it. As always, I think you're pretty rad. So thrilled to be part of the swap with you!
Lora @cakeduchess / Mar 7 2011 1:16 pm
Hi Lindsay! Your mini pork and apple pot pies look amazing! I love your take on the recipe. I'm so happy to be a part of this wonderful vintage recipe swap:)
Mari / Mar 7 2011 1:49 pm
Linds, it took everything I had to resist that biscuit. I nearly caved 100 times. This was DELISH!
Shari Wakefield / Mar 7 2011 2:27 pm
This is such a great addition to the Recipe Swap – and have you changed your background colour of your site? If yes or no, I do love the green.
Chef Dennis / Mar 7 2011 4:42 pm
I absolutely love your gruyere biscuits topping it looks amazing, and adding apples to your pork pot pie was such a wonderful idea!
I am sorry that I missed you, but you will laugh when I tell you why, I copied your list, since it looked so nice, I took myself off, but didn't even think to add you to it…I am so sorry! You have been added back in.
Carina - Kitchen Groovy / Mar 7 2011 8:39 pm
How innovative! What a great combination and to incorporate it into a pot pie!?! Genius!!
A Cajun Down Under / Apr 27 2011 7:51 pm
I found this recipe while looking for something to do with leftover roast pork from Easter lunch. It has been so cold and rainy here, that I thought this would be the perfect way to warm us up, and when I realized that I had all the ingredients in the fridge/pantry, I was sold. I made this on Monday night for dinner, and it was simply delicious. The only change I made was to incorporate the leftover roast rather than cook fresh pork. My hubby was so impressed that he has already asked me to make it again next week.
Thanks for this delicious recipe!
paper canuck / Nov 13 2011 2:13 pm
Whilst looking for ideas on what to with leftover pork, I stumbled upon your site. Thank you! thank you! thank you! Since the meat was already cooked I altered the method slightly and stretched the original sauce with the chicken broth and proceeded. The biscuit topping was to die for! My DH and I really enjoyed this and practically flipped a coin for the last bits. Rest assured, I will be checking out your blog regularly from now on.


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Research: Alignment's Leadership Gap
By CIOinsight Print
CIO Insight's survey on the development and communication of IT and corporate strategy reveals that execs doubt their message is reaching employees.
Leadership Gap
Our research on the development and communication of IT and corporate strategy showed that many business and IT executives feel they do a relatively poor job communicating that strategy to employees. Sadly, there's a similar trend when it comes to managing the link between overall strategyand IT strategyand the needs of employees as they go about their jobs. Companies as a whole make some effort to measure performance against strategic goals, as do their IT departments, but our respondents don't seem to think much of the alignment results.
The results are available in Adobe Acrobat PDF format. To download the free Adobe Acrobat Reader plug-in, click here.
This article was originally published on 07-01-2002


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Oil floats on water in the foreground as the half-sunk Cyprus-flagged carrier Thmothrmopolyseara lies in the Indian ocean off the southern suburban coast of Colombo, Sri Lanka, Aug. 26. Authorities mobilized coast guards and volunteers to clean beaches following an oil spill after the Thmothrmopolyseara sank off-shore because of bad weather. The ship went down Thursday after remaining in anchorage for over three years following a dispute over its cargo.
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at odds with (someone, something, or oneself)(redirected from at odds with them)
at odds with (someone, something, or oneself)
1. In conflict with someone or something. They are at odds with each other over the best way to lead the committee. Our fact-checker found that the witness's story was completely at odds with what the reporter had written.
2. Displeased with or unsettled in one's life. In this usage, a reflexive pronoun is used after "with." Sally still seems at odds with herself, but I think she'll feel better once she starts school again.
See also: odds
at odds with someone
COMMON If one person or group is at odds with another, they disagree about something. Their two sons were at odds with each other. Note: You can also say that two people or groups are at odds. The Education Secretary denied reports that he and the Chancellor had been at odds over university funding.
at odds with something
COMMON If one thing is at odds with another, they are very different or do not seem as though they can both be true. His outlook on life was pessimistic, quite at odds with his wife's description of his normal out-going personality. He was a good piano player, but slightly ashamed of it, as it seemed at odds with his macho image. Note: You can also say that two things are at odds. Last month the two reports were at odds, since employment figures indicated strength while the index predicted a worsening economy.


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GFELLER + HELLSGARDUntitled 89, 2017
Screenprint on paper.
80 x 60 cm.
Edition of 20.
Signed and numbered.
Contact Collectionair for details about the artwork:
- Ships in 10 to 20 business days.
- We allow returns within 7 days of reception.
- Shipping cost and taxes will be automatically calculated at checkout based on your location.
- All artworks are sold unframed unless stated otherwise.


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- Stocks To Watch
JC Penney Margin Pressures to Continue, Goldman Sachs Says
- Order Reprints
- Print Article
December has been a harsh month for JCPenney (JCP)--and it looks to be getting worse following a Goldman Sachs note this morning.
Shares of JC Penney have dropped 22% this month, while Macy's (M) has dipped just 1.8% and Kohl's (KSS) is off 0.9%. Only Sears Holdings (SHLD) among the major retailers has seen a larger December drop: It's plunged 30% so far this month.
Now Goldman Sachs' Stephen Grambling and Christopher Prykull say JC Penney could face continued margin pressures. They write:
Last week, J.C. Penney Company announced it is continuing to reduce portions of its national branded inventory to emphasize more of its private label merchandise. Specifically, JCP plans to shrink the size of its Joe Fresh assortment and move the shop from its prominent location in the store, replacing it with A.N.A and JCP brand women's wear. The company is also eliminating its JCP men's wear, reducing Michael Graves inventory, and plans to introduce a line of Liz Claiborne home goods to replace the Martha Stewart designed products.
Longer term, we believe a greater emphasis on private label should help JCP recapture its traditional customer as well as drive gross margin back towards historical levels. However, the re-merchandising suggests incremental markdowns are likely to continue in the near term.
As a result, they expect now expect 20% of JC Penney's merchandise to be on clearance, up from 15%, resulting in margins falling to 46%m from 48%. The analysts also lowered their earnings forecasts for 2013, 2014, 2015 and 2016. Their target price fell to $9.50 from $11.
Shares of JC Penney have dropped 2.4% to $8.06 today at 9:49 a.m., while Macy's has gained 0.4% to $52.34, Kohl's has dipped 0.1% to $54.73 and Sears has risen 1.7% to $44.68.


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It's not just the revamped luxury interiors, it's the places along the way that make the Indian Pacific a true-blue experience.
'You're not from around here, are ya?'', asks a bloke in a grubby stetson, jeans and thongs, a stubby grasped firmly in his right hand. ''Can't be, not lookin' as clean as that!'' He guffaws away with his mate as I look down at my all-white ensemble, as yet untouched by the red dust swirling around us. I have to laugh along with them.
They're right – I'm a long, long way from home. It's taken me 50 hours to get from Sydney to remote Rawlinna in Western Australia. There's not much to see here. A sandstone station house. A few jackaroos lounging in slivers of shade. One lone, skinny palm attempting to wave away the raw heat of the day.
I've arrived on the iconic Indian Pacific, the Great Southern Railway train that runs coast-to-coast, 4352 kilometres from Sydney and Perth in three days. We're nearing the end of our journey and this is our second stop on the vast, arid and famously treeless Nullarbor Plain.
Of course, all-white seemed perfectly appropriate when I boarded the Indian Pacific at Sydney's Central Station. From the moment I was greeted on the platform by Jos, the train's tall, elegantly mustachioed hospitality manager who ushered me gently through to my Gold Service sleeper cabin, I felt as if I was being transported back to a more gracious, elegant age of travel.
The cabins – dinky but refined spaces featuring wood panelling, mirrors etched with cute vintage pastoral motifs and large windows through which to gaze, slack-jawed, at the passing scenery – were given amakeover in early 2012 as part of a $22million refurbishment of the train. There's new patterned carpet and fabric upholstery, upgraded mood lighting, a five-channel sound system through which beams the ever-chipper journey commentary, and surprisingly comfy upgraded bunk beds that are stowed away during the day to make way for athree-seater lounge. Most impressive are the completely revamped, white-tiled bathrooms, which are stocked with complimentary toiletries and now have fixed (rather than fold-down) toilets, sinks and showers that make washing oneself while travelling at 85km/h a slightly more sophisticated experience.
The train's cosy, club-like lounge and restaurant carriages were also given a bit of a spruce-up in the March upgrade. The Outback Explorer Lounge (think polished wood, rich in velvet and brass) is the place to park your bottom and, gin and tonic in hand, gaze at the awe-inspiring scenery as the train rattles its way through the lush eucalypt forests of the Blue Mountains, the shimmering salt plains of South Australia, the scrappy beauty of the grey-green mallee scrub and the vast emptiness – save for a few emusand kangaroos – of the baked desert interior.
You can ogle at the awe-inspiring plains from the on-board Queen Adelaide Restaurant, too, but once you're there, eyes are generally fixed firmly on the a la carte menu (also upgraded), which offers mouth-watering produce sourced from the regions through which the train passes. Blue swimmer crab from Western Australia, Spear Creek Dorper Lamb from South Australia and an unforgettable creme de menthe tart are just a few highlights.
From 2013, as part of a range of proposed changes to the service that will take place about April, the food and wine will be co-ordinated with the regions the train is travelling through at that time of day, so passengers will be able to link the environment they're seeing outside the dining car windows with the food on their plate. But not even a $22 million upgrade can change thefact that the true highlights of the Indian Pacific are those found outside the carriages, at some of the major pit stops the train makes along the way. For me, they included strolling down the deserted main street of Broken Hilljust after sunrise, flanked by charming, old-fashioned shops and Federation hotels. Exploring Cook, the ghost town of the Nullarbor, with its abandoned swimming pool, population of four and views across the endless scrolls of spinifex and saltbush. Zipping about Adelaide on a whistle-stop tour, taking in its picturesque churches, gorgeous colonial architecture andperfectly manicured rose gardens. And, of course, discoveringthat no true-blueAussie would ever dare wear white tothe desert, in a little town namedRawlinna.
The writer was a guest of Great Southern Rail.
Christmas Train
2012 marked the 12th annual Indian Pacific Outback Christmas Train event, which each December welcomes twospecial guests — Santa Claus and anotable musician (this year, Brian McFadden; in years past, Jessica Mauboy, Human Nature and Jimmy Barnes) — who perform for local communities during the three-night journey across Australia. It's a way for Great Southern Rail to thank communities for their support, and to raise money for the Royal Flying Doctor Service.
Changes on the way
As of April 1, the full journey (Sydney to Perth or vice versa, excluding return flights) will increase to $2420 for a Gold Service twin ticket and $3890 for a Platinum Service ticket. The Gold Service single ticket price will not change. The fares will include all beverages (wine, beer, spirits and soft drinks are currently at additional cost), and wayside ''explore and discover'' tours (also currently at additional cost). Guests booking six months or more in advance will also receive a 25 per cent discount off the full Gold Service fare.
Later next year, there will be a GPS tracking the train's progress that guests will be able to view in the lounge car, a webcam on the front of the train to show guests where the train is travelling, and wi-fi on board. An app is also in development, which will allow guests to experience virtually the areas, towns and sights along the way.
Trip notes
The Indian Pacific leaves Sydney for Perth on Wednesday each week year-round, and on Saturday between September 1 and October 27.
A Gold Service single ticket is $2178; holiday and celebration packages are available.Partial trips and other classesare available. 13 21 47, greatsouthernrail .com.au for a full listing of fares and timetables.


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Lakewood Real Estate
The charming neighborhood of Lakewood is known for its great public and private schools, historical homes, community and parent involvement plus outstanding natural amenities including White Rock Lake and the Dallas Arboretum. One of Dallas' oldest and eclectic neighborhoods, Lakewood was established in 1882, only a few decades after the city itself was founded. Its overlapping neighbors; Hollywood Heights, the "M" Streets, Forest Hills, Historic Swiss Avenue, East Dallas and more, group themselves under the title of Lakewood. All enjoy the quiet small town feel that's nestled east of dynamic Downtown Dallas. The area is privy to many popular restaurants and stylish shops, specifically in Lakewood Village, Mockingbird Station and Casa Linda Shopping Center. Neighborhoods throughout Lakewood are well established and consist entirely of well-kept single-family homes. Residents are committed to maintaining its distinctive neighborhood character. From...
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KANSAS CITY (AP) – A person familiar with the situation tells The Associated Press that Andy Reid is nearing a deal to replace Romeo Crennel as coach of the Kansas City Chiefs.
Reid has no plans to interview for other jobs, according to the person who spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity Thursday because they were not authorized to discuss the negotiations.
The Philadelphia Eagles fired Reid on Monday, the same day the Chiefs parted ways with Crennel. Several members of the Chiefs met with Reid, who has also been linked to openings in Arizona and San Diego, for close to nine hours on Wednesday.
Reid was fired after 14 seasons, six division titles and a Super Bowl appearance.
(© Copyright 2013 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)
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Explore the Science Museum and find the Roving Scientist. You never know what kind of demonstrations and hands-on activities they have in store for you!
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Family Science Adventuresmross
January 5, 2019 @ 11:00 am–2:00 pm
|Recurring Program (See all)
An event every week that begins at 11:00 am on Sunday and Saturday, repeating until March 31, 2019


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Gift Guide
Finding the perfect gift can be tough, but the pilots at Sporty's are here to help. Check out our comprehensive gift guide, where you can shop by pilot rating or by price range. From the latest in iPad accessories to unique aviation memorabilia, our gift guide is packed with unique ideas they haven't seen before. Have questions? Email us: firstname.lastname@example.com
Garmin D2 Delta Watch (Brown Leather Band Band 47mm )5768AFREE Shipping!$949.00The fourth generation of Garmin's popular D2 aviator watch now includes music storage and even GarminPay. Learn More


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Great Drills and Explanations.
I have been training in Systema for 3 years and have had the pleasure of learning from Vladimir on multiple occasions and I can honestly say that his skill is unrivaled. During my 3 year journey with Systema I have become fascinated/obsessed with learning to hit as ..read more >>


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Unless it's a very specific ESP class, I'd say it's likely to be the language of advantages/disadvantages, ec.
English Teacher
I am writing an essay based around the ARC descriptive tool (scrivener). I have been given this situation and asked why the class is not a logical / cohesive progression.
a- Students, in groups, discuss pros and cons of cloning A
b- Students read an authentic text on cloned animals A
c- Students hold a debate on the possible advantages of genetically engineered food A
d- Gap-fill exercise with expressions used to highlight pros and cons of things R
I have begun by answering that there is no clarification or focus to the lesson and have gone on to say that I would change the class to a text-based approach. However, I'm a little unsure of exactly what could be the teacher's objective of the class. would it be vocab on cloning? or is the target language getting the students to speak about advantages and disadvantages of topics. How do you see the objective of what the teacher is trying to teach? Some advice would be much appreciated! thanks!
Unless it's a very specific ESP class, I'd say it's likely to be the language of advantages/disadvantages, ec.


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The Mod Squad was a police drama which ran on ABC from 1968-1973. The series followed three young counterculture teens, who are offered a chance to fight crime rather then face incarceration.
A Mod Squad parody was part of episode 202 of Muppets Tonight. Clifford explains that Rick Moranis got his big break as a guest star on "The Muppet Odd-Squad", an early 70s TV show with the Muppets as Little Ricky Cool.
- Claire Danes played Julie Barnes in the 1999 film
- David Ketchum played Jake Barry in "Never Give the Fuzz an Even Break" (1969)
- Richard Pryor appeared in the episode "The Connection" (1972)
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