text:
This page shows textual changes in the document between the two versions indicated in the dates above. Textual matter removed in the later version is indicated with
red strikethrough and textual matter added in the later version is indicated with .
One of the most common methods for changing spending priorities in appropriations bills on the House floor is through offset amendments. House offset amendments generally change spending priorities in a pending appropriations measure by increasing spending for certain activities (or creating spending for new activities not included in the bill) and offsetting the increase with funding decreases in other activities in the bill. Offset amendments are needed to avoid
the Congressional Budget Act 302(f) and 311(a) points of order enforcing certain spending ceilings affecting regular appropriations bills, continuing resolutions (CRs), and supplemental appropriations measures (supplementals). In addition, amendments to general appropriations bills that would increase total spending provided in the bill must be entirely offset.
Two types of House offset amendments are considered in the Committee of the Whole House on the State of the Union (Committee of the Whole): clause 2(f) and reachback (or fetchback) amendments. As provided under House Rule XXI, clause 2(f) offset amendments consist of two or more amendments considered together (or en bloc) that would change amounts by directly adding text or changing text in the body of the bill. Taken as a whole, the amendment does not increase the amount of funding in the pending bill. Such amendments (1) must provide offsets in both new budget authority and outlays, (2) can only include language transferring appropriations in the bill, and (3) may contain certain unauthorized appropriations.
Reachback offset amendments are generally offered at the end of the bill and change funding amounts in the pending bill by reference. These amendments (1) must provide offsets in new budget authority, but not necessarily outlays; (2) may add new appropriations (and spending set-asides within certain restrictions); (3) cannot include unauthorized appropriations; and (4) may provide across-the-board spending reductions as offsets.
Parliamentary rules governing consideration of offset amendments may be suspended or waived, typically by House adoption of a special rule but also by unanimous
The advantages of clause 2(f) amendments over reachback amendments are that clause 2(f) amendments may contain certain unauthorized appropriations and are typically considered before reachback amendments, sometimes limiting offset opportunities for reachback amendments. The main advantages of reachback amendments are that they may not have to offset outlays, may add new appropriations, and may include across-the-board spending reductions.
One of the most common methods for redistributing spending priorities in appropriations bills on the House floor is through offset amendments. House offset amendments generally change spending priorities in a pending appropriations measure by increasing spending for certain activities (or creating spending for new activities not included in the bill) and offsetting the increase(s) by decreasing or striking funding for other activities in the bill. For example, an amendment increasing funding for one agency funded in the bill by $3 million and decreasing funding for another agency by the same amount in the same bill would be an offset amendment.
These amendments may transfer funds between two activities or among several activities. In addition, certain offset amendments may reduce funding with across-the-board spending reductions.
Representatives use offset amendments for a variety of reasons, including to (1) ensure that proposals increasing funding for certain activities in any appropriations measure1 do not violate parliamentary rules enforcing certain spending ceilings; (2) comply with the prohibition against increasing total spending in a general appropriations bill;2 (3) garner support for efforts to reduce funding for certain activities by transferring those funds to popular programs; and (4) provide a focal point for discussion of a particular issue.
This report is an introduction to selected House rules and practices governing the consideration of offset amendments to appropriations measures considered in the Committee of the Whole House on the State of the Union (or Committee of the Whole).3 It analyzes the parliamentary context providing the need for offset amendments; the two types of offset amendments, clause 2(f) and reachback (or fetchback) offset amendments, including procedural factors regarding each; and the mechanisms for waiving House rules. The report concludes with highlights on the procedural advantages of each offset amendment type.
This report is not an official statement of House procedures. The House Parliamentarian advises the presiding officer on procedural issues regarding offset amendments and other matters. Although this report provides useful background information, it should not be considered a substitute for consultation with the Parliamentarian on specific procedural problems and opportunities.
Offset amendments are needed to ensure amendments increasing funding for certain activities in a regular appropriations bill, supplemental appropriations bill, or continuing resolution4 do not also cause spending ceilings associated with the annual budget resolution to be exceeded. Additionally, a separate order of the House prohibits amendments increasing the total spending level in a general appropriations bill.
Under the Congressional Budget
and Impoundment Control Act of 1974 (or Congressional Budget Act),5 as amended, Congress typically considers an annual budget resolution each spring.6 These measures are under the jurisdiction of the House and Senate Budget Committees. Each budget resolution establishes, in part, total new budget authority7 and outlay ceilings for federal government activities for the upcoming fiscal year. Once these figures are finalized, the new budget authority and outlays are allocated among the House committees with jurisdiction over spending, and each committee is given specific spending ceilings (referred to as the 302(a) allocations). 8 The House Appropriations Committee receives separate allocations for discretionary and direct spending 9 and, in turn, subdivides its 302(a) allocations among its 12 appropriations subcommittees, 10 providing each subcommittee with its spending ceiling (302(b) subdivisions). In the case of the appropriations committee, these allocations are only established for the upcoming fiscal year because appropriations measures are annual.
Two Congressional Budget Act points of order, 302(f) and 311(a), enforce selected spending ceilings.
11 The 302(f) point of order prohibits, in part, floor consideration of any committee-reported appropriations measure and related amendments 12 providing new budget authority for the upcoming fiscal year that would cause the applicable 302(a) or 302(b) allocations of new budget authority for that fiscal year to be exceeded. In effect, the application of this point of order on appropriations legislation is generally limited to discretionary spending. If, for example, the 302(b) subdivision in new discretionary budget authority for a fiscal year is $24 billion and the reported bill would provide the same amount for the same fiscal year, any amendment proposing an increase in new discretionary budget authority for activities in the bill (or creating new discretionary budget authority) would violate the 302(f) point of order. An offset amendment, however, that also includes a commensurate decrease in new discretionary budget authority for activities in the bill would not violate the rule.
The second rule, the 311(a) point of order, prohibits, in part, floor consideration of any committee-reported appropriations measure and related amendments providing new budget authority for the upcoming fiscal year that would cause the applicable total budget authority and outlay ceilings in the budget resolution for that fiscal year to be exceeded.
13 As the amounts of all the spending measures considered in the House accumulate, they could potentially reach or exceed these ceilings. This point of order would typically affect the last spending bills to be considered, such as supplemental appropriations measures or the last regular appropriations bills.
If a Representative raises a point of order that an amendment violates either rule and the presiding officer sustains the point of order, the amendment falls.
Appropriations measures considered on the House floor are typically at or just below the level of the subcommittee's 302(b) subdivision and, in some cases, the committee's 302(a) allocation and the total spending ceiling as well.
First in the 112th and again in the 113th Congress, the House adopted a new separate order in conjunction with adopting its rules. This separate order appeared at Section 3(d)(3) of H.Res. 5 ( 113th Congress). 14 During consideration of general appropriations bills in the Committee of the Whole, Section 3(d)(3) of H.Res. 5 (referred to as Section 3(d)(3) in this report), in part, prohibits consideration of amendments to such a bill that would provide a net increase in budget authority in the bill, as reported or amended. 15 This prevents a Representative from using any difference between the pending bill and the spending ceilings associated with the annual budget resolution to increase spending in the bill. Such a difference could occur if the reported bill were lower than the ceilings or if an amendment(s) were adopted that reduces budget authority in the bill.
If a Representative raises a point of order that an amendment violates Section 3(d)(3) and the presiding officer sustains the point of order, the amendment falls.
The structure of appropriations measures has a direct impact on the form of offset amendments. Because regular appropriations bills and supplementals generally include several lump-sum and line-item appropriations, adding a new appropriation or increasing funding for an appropriation in the bill typically requires an offset. The procedural necessity of an offset for a funding set-aside within a lump-sum appropriation is dependent on the structure of the appropriation in the bill.
Regular appropriations bills and supplemental appropriations measures generally contain numerous unnumbered paragraphs. Most paragraphs provide a lump-sum amount (usually an appropriation) for similar programs, projects, or activities. Such paragraphs are referred to as lump-sum appropriations. A few paragraphs may provide an appropriation for a single program or project, referred to as a line-item appropriation.
16 Most appropriations correspond to a unique budget account.
The total net spending levels provided in an appropriations bill include all lump-sum and line-item appropriations, rescissions,
17 and other provisions affecting spending. An amendment increasing a lump-sum or line-item appropriation as well as adding a new appropriation to a general appropriations bill would violate Section 3(d)(3) unless it was accompanied by a commensurate offset regardless of the level of spending in the measure. In addition, appropriations bills initially considered on the House floor are typically near or at the level of the subcommittee's 302(b) subdivision and, in some cases (particularly supplementals), the committee's 302(a) allocation and the total spending ceilings as well. An amendment increasing a lump-sum or line-item appropriation, therefore, could increase the amount of funding in the bill, causing it to exceed these ceilings. As a result, such an amendment typically requires an offset.
Within a lump-sum appropriation, separate amounts are sometimes included in the bill that set aside spending for specified programs, projects, or activities (for purposes of this report, they are referred to as funding set-asides).
An amendment proposing to increase (or create) a funding set-aside in a lump-sum appropriation that has been entirely set aside in the bill would procedurally require a commensurate offset. In the example below, the three set-asides total $200 million, which is the total lump-sum amount. An amendment proposing an increase in any of the three set-asides that does not include an offset in one of the other set-asides would require an increase of the lump-sum amount.
For necessary expenses, including salaries and related expenses, of the Executive Office for YYY, to implement program activities, $200,000,000, of which $100,000,000 is for the yellow program, $50,000,000 for the green program, and $50,000,000 for the blue program.
By contrast, certain set-aside amendments would not increase lump-sum amounts. If a bill contains a lump-sum amount with no set-asides, for example, an amendment designating part (or all) of the funds for a particular purpose would not increase spending. In cases in which the lump-sum appropriation includes a set-aside(s) that does not affect the entire amount, an amendment setting aside only the remaining funds or a portion of those funds would also not increase spending. If enacted, the effect of either case would be reductions in funding for activities that were not set aside to accommodate funding in the bill that was specified as set-asides. To avoid such reductions, amendments may include offsets from other appropriations in the bill.
There are two types of offset amendments, clause 2(f) and reachback (or fetchback) amendments, available during consideration of regular and supplemental appropriations bills in the Committee of the Whole. Clause 2(f) refers to clause 2(f) of House Rule XXI, which establishes some of the parliamentary procedures governing the consideration of such amendments.
Clause 2(f) offset amendments consist of two or more amendments considered together (or en bloc)
19 that would change amounts by directly adding text or changing text in the body of the bill. Reachback offset amendments, by contrast, are generally offered at the end of the bill, that change funding amounts by reference. The clause 2(f) offset amendment transfers appropriations among objects 20 in the pending bill and, taken as a whole, does not cause the bill to exceed the total new budget authority or outlay levels already provided in the bill.
An example of a clause 2(f) offset amendment follows. This amendment would have decreased the lump-sum appropriation for the Bureau of the Census, Periodic Censuses and Programs account by $10 million; increased the lump-sum appropriation for the Office of Justice Programs, State and Local Law Enforcement Assistance account by $10 million; and increased a set-aside within the latter appropriation for the Southwest Border Prosecutor Initiative by the same amount.
Page 6, line 23, after the dollar amount insert "(reduced by $10,000,000)."
Page 42, line 8, after the dollar amount insert "(increased by $10,000,000)."
Page 43, line 8, after the dollar amount insert "(increased by $10,000,000)."
These offset amendments typically change a spending level by inserting after the amount a parenthetic increase or decrease (see example above). Under House rules, an amendment generally cannot amend previously amended text.
22 Changing a monetary figure by a parenthetic increase or decrease placed after the amount text, rather than changing the amount text, however, is allowed. 23
Under House rules, clause 2(f) offset amendments must be offered when the first portion of the bill to be amended is pending. In practice, however, they may be offered at other times if no Member objects. In the Committee of the Whole, appropriations bills are generally read for amendment sequentially by paragraph. After the reading clerk reads or designates a paragraph, the presiding officer entertains any points of order against that paragraph, and then Members may propose amendments to it. After the clerk has designated or begun reading the next paragraph, amendments to the former paragraph are not in order.
Prior to consideration of a proposed clause 2(f) offset amendment, the presiding officer asks if any Member wants to raise a point of order against any provision the en bloc amendment would change. If a point of order against such a provision is sustained, the provision is stricken from the bill and is no longer amendable. Therefore, the offset amendment would fall as well, unless appropriately modified or amended by unanimous consent.
There are four additional procedural implications regarding clause 2(f) offset amendments. These amendments (1) must offset any increase in both budget authority and outlays, (2) can only include language transferring appropriations, (3) may contain certain unauthorized appropriations, and (4) are exempt from a "demand for a division of the question."
Under clause 2(f) of House Rule XXI, any spending increases in a clause 2(f) offset amendment must be offset by commensurate reductions in both new budget authority and outlays. The 302(f) point of order enforcing 302(a) and 302(b) allocations and Section 3(d)(3) only apply to budget authority.
26 The spending increases and decreases contained in an offset amendment must be provided in the same fiscal year, the year of the pending appropriations bill.
Offset amendments providing equal increases and decreases in new budget authority might not produce equal amounts of outlays in the same fiscal year. The amount of resulting outlays may vary among different accounts because the length of time needed to complete the activities funded may differ. It takes less time to purchase office supplies than to complete construction of an aircraft. For example, in Table 1, the distribution of outlays from $20 million in new budget authority varies between two accounts.
Operating Expenses
Source: Table compiled by the Congressional Research Service.
Based on historical spending practices, the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) each year estimates the speed at which outlays from each appropriation will occur, referred to as the spendout rates (or outlay rates). A spendout rate is the rate at which budget authority is expected to be spent (outlays) in a fiscal year.
27 In Table 1, the FY2015 spending rate for the operating expenses account is 90%, whereas the rate for the construction account is 10%.
The varying spendout rates of appropriations sometimes complicate efforts to increase budget authority. In Table 2, increasing
FY2015 budget authority for an operating expenses account by $20 million produces $18 million in outlays. Decreasing a construction account by the same amount in budget authority, however, produces only $2 million in outlays. Under this scenario, reductions in three accounts produce the $18 million in outlays needed to fund the $20 million budget authority increase in operating expenses. By contrast, increasing the construction account by $20 million in budget authority would be easier because only $2 million in outlays would be required.
Budget Authority
Source: Table compiled by the Congressional Research Service.
Representatives (or their staff) routinely ask CBO to estimate the budgetary effects of their clause 2(f) offset amendments for informational purposes. If a point of order is raised under clause 2(f), the chair relies on determinations made by the House Appropriations Committee as to the budgetary effects of the amendment.
Clause 2(f) offset amendments are, in part, amendments "proposing only to transfer appropriations among objects in the bill"
29 by directly changing dollar amounts. Provisions that would not be considered "transferring appropriations" include adding a new lump-sum appropriation or spending set-aside, changing the amount of a rescission, providing an across-the-board spending reduction, or reaching back to provisions in the bill the House has already considered. 30
Clause 2(a) of House Rule XXI generally prohibits unauthorized appropriations in certain committee-reported appropriations bills and amendments to such bills.
31 Certain amendments, such as clause 2(f) offset amendments, however, may increase the level of funding for certain unauthorized appropriations already in the bill.
Under clause 2(a), appropriations must generally be authorized by prior enactment of legislation concerning a program (or an agency, account, project, or activity). An "[a]uthorization for a program may be derived from a specific law providing authority for that particular program or from a more general existing law—'organic law'—authorizing appropriations for such programs."
32 Authorizations of subsequent appropriations may be permanent or they may be multi-year or annual, expiring at the end of a specific time period.
The rule prohibits floor consideration of appropriations for a program whose authorization has expired or whose budget authority exceeds the ceiling authorized, if any. Appropriations violating these restrictions are unauthorized appropriations.
Appropriations bills frequently include unauthorized appropriations. Such appropriations are allowed to remain in an appropriations bill when the House adopts a special rule waiving points of order against the appropriation or, less frequently, when no one raises a point of order against it.
34 Under House precedents, a germane amendment that merely perfects an unauthorized appropriation permitted to remain in the bill is allowed. 35 An example would be an amendment that would only increase the unauthorized amount and would do so by either amending the amount text or by inserting a parenthetical increase after the amount (such as an en bloc clause 2(f) offset amendment). A scenario providing the stages of action is below:
Although clause 2(f) offset amendments may increase unauthorized
appropriations, they remain subject to budget authority and the outlay offset requirements of clause 2(f) of House Rule XXI.
A clause 2(f) amendment may not propose to increase an "authorized appropriation" in an appropriations bill beyond the authorized level.
36 For example, if an authorization act included a $2 million authorization for FY2015 and the regular appropriations bill provided the full amount, an offset amendment increasing the amount would be prohibited.
Under clause 2(f) of House Rule XXI, these amendments are not subject to a "demand for a division of the question in the House or in the Committee of the Whole."
37 That is, a Member cannot demand separate consideration of two or more provisions in such en bloc amendments. Instead. the House must consider the amendment as a whole. 38
Reachback (or fetchback) offset amendments add a new section (or title), typically at the end of an appropriations measure, that reaches back to change amounts previously considered by reference.
39 For example, the following amendment inserted a new section at the end of the committee-reported FY2008 Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education regular appropriations bill (H.R. 3043, 110th Congress):
Title VI—Additional General Provisions
Sec. 601. The amounts otherwise provided by this Act are revised by reducing the amount made available for the "Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration, Training and Employment Services", by increasing the amount made available for the "National Institutes of Health, National Cancer Institute", and by increasing the amount made available for the "National Institutes of Health, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke" by $49,000,000, $10,000,000, and $10,000,000, respectively.
Prior to adoption of Section 3(d)(3) of H.Res. 5 (112th Congress), reachback amendments to general appropriations bills could have been offered that increased spending provided in the bill as long as they did not violate the 302(f) and 311(a) points of order.
Reachback amendments
Under the 3(d)(3) and 302(f) points of order, only budget authority offsets are needed; but the 311(a) point of order applies to both new budget authority and outlays. Generally, the most restrictive points of order are 3(d)(3) and 302(f) enforcing the 302(b) subdivisions,
both enforcing only budget authority. Furthermore, only the last spending measures considered for a fiscal year, such as supplementals or the last regular bills, are likely to violate the 311(a) point of order. For reachback amendments, budget authority offsets are generally the primary procedural concern.
Opponents of a reachback amendment may, however, raise the lack of outlay offsets as a concern for policy reasons. They may also argue that the resulting outlay increases might present a procedural problem for the bill in the Senate or in conference.
In the case of reachback amendments that also provide sufficient new budget authority reductions to offset any outlay increases, Representatives (or their staff) routinely ask CBO to estimate the outlay effect of their amendments.
42 The spending increases and decreases contained in an offset amendment must be provided in the same fiscal year, the year of the pending appropriations bill.
Reachback amendments may contain new appropriations and set-asides for certain activities not already included in the bill. Such new appropriations and set-asides must be germane to the bill.
Under clause 7 of House Rule XVI,
43 all amendments must be germane to the pending bill. That is, they may not add new subject matter to the bill. Reachback amendments offered at the end of the bill must be germane to the bill, and those offered at the end of a title must be germane to the title. Regular appropriations measures generally have broad subject matter, which may provide flexibility for reachback amendments.
Set-asides may not, however, violate a House rule prohibiting legislation on a general appropriations bill (or legislation). Clause 2(b) of House Rule XXI prohibits legislation in committee-reported general appropriations bills, and clause 2(c) prohibits legislation in amendments to those measures.
44 For purposes of this rule, legislation refers to any provision in a general appropriations bill or related amendment that changes existing law, such as proposals amending or repealing existing law or creating new law. The following are examples of legislative language: abolishing a department, agency, or program; providing, changing, limiting, or waiving an authorization; or proposing new rescissions in the appropriations bill. 45
One of the guiding principles in interpreting this prohibition is that an amendment designating funds may not interfere with an executive branch official's statutory authority. For example, such amendments may not significantly alter the official's discretion. Language doing so changes existing law and is therefore prohibited. For example, if an authorization law provides an agency head with the authority to make decisions allocating funds within a particular lump-sum appropriation, an amendment proposing a new set-aside would alter the agency head's authority and would thus be out of order.
In cases where a new set-aside would violate the rules, an amendment sponsor frequently does not include the set-aside in the amendment; instead, the sponsor merely discusses that set-aside in terms of intent and expectation during debate on the amendment. This approach is used to avoid the point of order against the amendment. The amendment's sponsor may also urge conferees to include the set-aside in any subsequent conference report.
Under clause 2(a) of House Rule XXI, new appropriations and set-asides included in amendments must be proposed for authorized purposes. All new set-asides must also be proposed to authorized lump-sum appropriations.
In contrast to clause 2(f) offset amendments, reachback amendments may not increase unauthorized appropriations permitted to remain in the bill because they do not change the text of the bill. The section added by a reachback amendment is considered adding a further unauthorized appropriation, as opposed to merely perfecting the text.
Under clause 5 of House Rule XVI,
49 a Member may demand separate consideration of two or more individual portions of an amendment if each portion identified, when standing alone, is a separate, substantive proposition and is grammatically separate "so that if one proposition is rejected a separate proposition will logically remain."
Because reachback amendments are potentially subject to a demand for a division of the question, if the presiding officer rules that an amendment is divisible, each divided portion of the amendment will be considered separately and subject to separate debate and amendment, as well as a separate vote.
Members often demand a division of the question on an amendment to more easily defeat one or more of the portions of that amendment separately. For example, a majority of Members might be opposed to the portion of an offset amendment that decreases funds for a particular program. One of them might demand a division of the question that, if granted, would allow a separate vote on the funding decrease portion of the amendment. Even if the amendment as a whole was not subject to a point of order, once one portion is defeated the remainder may be subject to the Section 3(d)(3) or Congressional Budget Act points of order.
Reachback amendments may include as an offset across-the-board spending cuts. Clause 2(f) amendments may only directly change amounts in the bill.
Parliamentary rules may be suspended or waived to consider offset amendments that violate these rules, typically by House adoption of a special rule. However, this approach has been used infrequently.
There are certain procedural advantages of clause 2(f) amendments over reachback amendments and vice versa.
There are generally three limited opportunities to suspend or waive the rules governing consideration of an offset amendment: (1) if no one raises a point of order; (2) if the House adopts a special rule explicitly waiving points of order against the amendment; or (3) if the House agrees by unanimous consent to waive the rules. Otherwise, if the presiding officer sustains a point of order against an amendment for violating the parliamentary rules previously discussed, the amendment falls.
First, House rules are not generally self-enforcing. A Representative must raise a point of order that an amendment violates a specific rule. If no one opposes an amendment, a point of order does not have to be raised.
Second, under current practice, the House Rules Committee usually reports a special rule setting additional procedural parameters for the consideration of appropriations measures. The House typically adopts the special rule and then considers the particular appropriations measure pursuant to it. If an offset amendment would violate one or more parliamentary rules, the sponsor may ask the Rules Committee to include a waiver protecting the amendment from the point(s) of order. Special rules generally do not provide special protection for offset amendments to appropriations bills.
Third, a Member might ask to consider an amendment violating the rules by unanimous consent. A single Member, however, can prevent such consideration by simply objecting to the unanimous consent request.
To attain their policy objectives, sponsors of offset amendments generally select either a clause 2(f) or reachback amendment and work within the rules governing their consideration.
Appropriations bills typically include some unauthorized appropriations. Generally, the House Rules Committee reports a special rule adopted by the House, waiving the prohibition against unauthorized appropriations for most or all unauthorized appropriations in a reported bill. Clause 2(f) amendments can increase those unauthorized appropriations allowed to remain. Reachback amendments, however, can only increase authorized appropriations in the bill to their authorized level (if there is one).
In some cases, entire bills or significant portions of bills have consisted of unauthorized appropriations. As a result, reachback amendments could not increase those amounts. For example, many of the lump-sum appropriations provided in the committee-reported regular defense appropriations bills have typically been unauthorized because of the timing of consideration of the annual defense authorization bill. The House has adopted special rules regarding each bill waiving the application of clause 2 of House Rule XXI. As a result, clause 2(f) amendments to those bills were in order, but reachback amendments were limited to the few, if any, authorized appropriations.
The timing of clause 2(f) amendments is sometimes an advantage over reachback amendments because clause 2(f) amendments are offered earlier in a bill's consideration. By the time reachback amendments are considered, there may be fewer politically appealing offset options available. Amendments, including clause 2(f) amendments, may have already been adopted that reduced the account a reachback amendment sponsor selected for offsets. The account might be reduced to a point where there is no support for further reductions.
Reachback amendments may add new lump-sum appropriations and set-asides within certain restrictions. Clause 2(f) amendments, by contrast, are limited to transferring appropriations among objects already in the bill.
Reachback amendments may include as an offset an across-the-board spending cut, but clause 2(f) amendments may only directly change amounts in the bill.
Another limited advantage of reachback amendments is that for most appropriations bills, reachback amendments must offset only new budget authority. Clause 2(f) amendments must offset both new budget authority and outlays. In practice, however, this advantage of reachback amendments over clause 2(f) amendments is limited because sponsors sometimes provide offsets in both budget authority and outlays to garner political support for reachback amendments.
Author Contact Information
This report was
authored by [author name scrubbed], formerly an analyst on Congress and the Legislative Process at CRS, who is grateful to the following individuals for their advice: Ira Forstater, House Office of the Legislative Counsel; Thomas J. Wickham, House Office of the Parliamentarian; and [author name scrubbed], Congressional Research Service. The listed contact has made minor modifications to the original report and is available to respond to inquiries on the subject.
Appropriations acts are characteristically annual, and funding generally expires at the end of a federal fiscal year. The federal fiscal year begins on October 1 and ends the following September 30. There are three major types of appropriations measures: regular appropriations bills, supplemental appropriations measures (or supplementals), and continuing resolutions. Of the three types, regular appropriations bills generally provide most of the funding (either as separate acts or in omnibus acts). Supplemental appropriations measures (or supplementals) generally increase funding for selected activities previously funded in the regular bills
General appropriations bills are defined by the House as regular appropriations bills and supplemental measures providing funding to two or more agencies (
Clause 3 of House Rule XVIII requires that appropriations measures be considered in the Committee of the Whole before the House votes on passage of the measures; however, continuing resolutions are typically considered in the House. (For more information on considering measures in the House or the Committee of the Whole, see CRS Report 95-563, The Legislative Process on the House Floor: An Introduction, by [author name scrubbed]; and CRS Report RL32200, Debate, Motions, and Other Actions in the Committee of the Whole, by [author name scrubbed] and [author name scrubbed].)
The House typically agrees to prohibit floor amendments to continuing resolutions. A notable exception was consideration of H.R. 1 (112th
In cases in which Congress delays completion of the annual budget resolution (or does not adopt one), each chamber may adopt a deeming resolution (see CRS Report
Congress provides spending to agencies in the form of budget authority, which does not represent cash provided to, or reserved for, agencies. Instead, the term refers to authority provided by federal law to enter into contracts or other financial obligations that will result in immediate or future expenditures (or outlays) involving federal government funds. Most appropriations are a form of budget authority that also provide legal authority to make the subsequent payments from the Treasury. Government Accountability Office, A Glossary of Terms Used in the Federal Budget Process (
Each House appropriations subcommittee has
Both the 302(f) and 311(a)
A separate order is a provision that is not a part of the House Standing Rules but is provided under the rulemaking authority of the House.
Section 3(d) also allows Members to offer amendments transferring appropriations in a regular appropriations bill to a spending reduction account, which is required in each regular appropriations bill. No other type of amendment to this account is allowed.
Each large agency, whether under a department or independent, is typically funded by several appropriations. All programs, projects, and activities under a small agency may be funded with a single
"A rescission is a provision of law that cancels the availability of budget authority previously enacted before the authority would otherwise expire."
Clause 2(f) of House Rule XXI: "During the reading of an appropriation bill for amendment in the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union, it shall be in order to consider en bloc amendments proposing only to transfer appropriations among objects in the bill without increasing the levels of budget authority or outlays in the bill. When considered en bloc under this paragraph, such amendments may amend portions of the bill not yet read for amendment (following disposition of any points of order against such portions) and are not subject to a demand for division of the question in the House or in the Committee of the Whole."
Under the clause 2(f) of House Rule XXI, amendments are allowed to be considered en bloc. Other amendments may generally not be considered en bloc unless by unanimous consent or pursuant to the terms of a special rule.
Objects would include accounts or activities, programs, or projects within an account.
Representative Capito, remarks in the House, Congressional Record (daily edition), vol. 153 (July 25, 2007), p. H8435. The amendment was offered to the FY2008 Commerce, Justice, and Science appropriations bill.
House Manual,
House Practice,
During consideration of appropriations measures, the Committee of the Whole may agree by unanimous consent to open the bill for amendment at any point a portion of the bill, such as several paragraphs or a title. Such an agreement eliminates the requirement that amendments be proposed to the specified portion of the bill in sequential order.
House Manual,
The 311(a) point of order enforces total new budget authority and outlays.
See, for example, the proceedings in Congressional Record, daily edition, vol. 160, part 95 (June 18, 2014), pp. H5445-H5446. For
Clause 2(f) of House Rule XXI.
House Manual,
House Practice,
Unauthorized appropriations for works and projects in progress are allowed. This prohibition applies to general appropriations bills. Because continuing resolutions are not considered general appropriations bills, they may include unauthorized appropriations. House Manual,
Prior to consideration of a regular or supplemental appropriations bill, the House typically adopts a special rule waiving, in part, this rule for the entire bill or the entire bill with selected exceptions.
House Practice,
House Manual,
Clause 2(f) of House Rule XXI.
For more information on a "demand for a division of the question," see "Must Be Drafted to Avoid a 'Demand for a Division of the Question'" under reachback amendments below
In cases in which the amount has already been amended, reachback amendments do not violate House rules prohibiting amendments that would amend previously amended text because reachback amendments change amounts by reference as opposed to by changing the text.
Representative Garrett, remarks in the House, Congressional Record (daily edition), vol. 153, July 19, 2007, p. H8131. The House adopted the amendment by voice vote on July 19, 2007.
For more information on Senate and conference procedures, see CRS Report R42388, The Congressional Appropriations Process: An Introduction, by [author name scrubbed]; and CRS Report 97-865, Points of Order in the Congressional Budget Process, by [author name scrubbed].
See "Must Offset Both Budget Authority and Outlays" under clause 2(f) offset amendments above.
House Manual, clause 7 of House Rule XVI.
House Manual, clause 2(b) and (c) of House Rule XXI.
Although the House Appropriations Committee may report rescissions, amendments may not include them.
For further information, see CRS Report R41634, Limitations in Appropriations Measures: An Overview of Procedural Issues, by [author name scrubbed].
House Manual, clause 2(a) of House Rule XXI.
House Manual,
House Manual, clause 5 of House Rule XVI.


text:
Jaguars Browns Betting – Jones-Drew Carries Jags Past Browns
Sports betting players shouldn't expect many points to be scored in Cleveland on Sunday as the Browns host Jacksonville, as a pair of young pivots will go head-to-head, but it shouldn't be surprising that a veteran running back will take the spotlight as the Jaguars snag a win on the road.
What: NFL Betting
When: Sunday, November 20th, 1:00 PM ET
Where: Browns Stadium, Cleveland, OH
Pick: Jacksonville Jaguars -1
Why Bet On Jacksonville Jaguars (3-6 SU, 4-5 ATS)
The Jaguars came off their bye week and took care of business in a 17-3 win at Indianapolis, which was their first road win of the season. Blaine Gabbert was 14-of-21 for 118 yards, a touchdown and a pick as he threw for 100 yards or more for the first time in three games, while Maurice Jones-Drew ran for 114 yards and a score for the Jaguars, who wore the Colts down and then took over in the second half, although it was the Colts, who may be the worst football team we've seen in the last 20 years. The defense forced three turnovers and held the Colts to 212 yards, which really helped as they gained only 251 yards on their own. Whether or not they would have gotten away with that kind of offensive performance against another team is irrelevant, because the Jaguars only had to do what they could to beat Indianapolis. Remember, Gabbert is still a rookie quarterback that doesn't have many weapons and he is going to be solid, but he needs more than Jones-Drew, who spends most of the time running against eight-man fronts.
Cornerback Rashean Mathis (knee) is gone for the season, which is a big loss for a defense that is ranked fifth against the pass. It's even bigger as the Jaguars don't have much of a pass rush (18th in the league in sacks); it's a good thing they're going up against a team that doesn't have much of an aerial attack. This is a scrappy Jacksonville team that doesn't get blown out much and against a team of equal talent, like Cleveland, a win is definitely possible.
Why Bet On Cleveland Browns (3-6 SU, 2-5-2 ATS)
The Browns have now lost three in a row after falling 13-12 at home to St. Louis, and it was actually a decent offensive performance as they gained 335 yards. Colt McCoy was 20-of-27 for 218 yards, while Chris Ogbonnaya ran for 90 yards, but the Browns were miserable in the red zone, failing to score on all four of their trips inside the 20-yard-line. Even Phil Dawson, who had hit his previous four field-goal attempts, missed a 22-yard attempt with about two minutes left, although it was a bad snap. The defense held the team in the game as the Rams gained only 281 yards, but they were the only team to score a touchdown and sometimes, that is all you need. That has been the story of the season for the Browns, who are ranked sixth in the league defensively (but that's still the lowest of all four AFC North teams), but 30th offensively. They showed some signs on Sunday, but more is needed.
Running back Peyton Hillis (hamstring) is still out, although Montario Hardesty (calf) has a shot at playing and that would be a boost to the offense. Receiver Mohammed Massaquoi (concussion) hasn't had any symptoms this week, but it's unlikely that he'll be ready to go and to be honest, he wouldn't have been much help in the first place. The Browns really need a deep threat, someone who can stretch the defense because they have a potential monster in Greg Little as a possession receiver. The defense is holding up their end of the bargain; it's time for the offense to do the same.
How It Will Play Out
NFL betting odds have this game as a pick'em, which sounds about right as these two teams are very equal in the respect that they're strong defensively, but dealing with young quarterbacks on their offense. The Browns are 3-2 SU and ATS in their last five meetings with the Jaguars since 2002, with three games going over the posted total, and they're 1-1 SU and ATS in the two games in Cleveland.
Expect a low-scoring affair as the defenses will take over and the head coaches will look to protect their young quarterbacks. The Browns may be able to exploit a Jacksonville secondary without Mathis, but the Jaguars have more at the back end than Mathis. If the Browns' defense has a weakness, it's that they're 30th against the run, so look for Jones-Drew to have a field day on Sunday as the Jaguars pick up another win against the online betting spread.
Jaguars Browns Betting Pick: Jacksonville Jaguars

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Liverpool City Region Combined Authority want to get more disabled people into..
Liverpool City Region Combined Authority want to get more disabled people into jobs, we know you may share the same commitment with the hundreds of other City Region employers. Together with the Department for Work and Pensions, the Metro Mayor is launching a call to action to persuade more employers to sign up to the Disability Confident campaign. This will be held at Everton FC's Blue Base on Friday 23 November from 9 am to 11:30 am. Find oure more and book your place here.
Disability Confident is designed to help employers like you, improve how you recruit, retain and develop disabled employees. Over 360 city region employers have already signed up and the number is growing daily. All local authorities in the City Region, together with all the main government departments are signed up. We hope that your organisation can join those if you have not already done so.
Disabled people make up almost 20% of the working age population, many being highly qualified individuals. We understand that employers can be reluctant to employ disabled people, but they risk missing out on a valuable pool of talent. At our Employer Disability Confident Event on Friday 23 November, we would like to show you how much they have to offer your business.
There are many myths about disabled people taking more days of sick, costing money to have work place adjustments and creating a fear of discrimination claims. All these assumptions are incorrect. Join us to hear why they are wrong and listen and talk with employers who can explain the support that is available, the steps they have taken to help disabled people enter and progress at work, and the benefits their businesses have gained as a result.
Please email email@example.com with any access requirements.
The countdown for Liverpool services begins More
Avoid costly mistakes More
Two-time Olympian turned world-famous influential speaker, Matthew Syed, will... More
Members can submit news items and events relating to their business
t: 0151 227 1234 | e: email@example.com | Number One Old Hall Street, Liverpool L3 9HG
Get latest news and updates from the Chamber and its members.


text:
Will & Probate ServicesCertificate of Excellence 2019
Market Deeping, PeterboroughElite Pro (1 Review)
We are one of the most trusted independent Will and Estate Planning firms in the UK.
From writing a simple Will to complex Inheritance Tax planning our consultants are some of the best.
We deal with Probate and Estate Administration when you have lost a loved one.
We help, you and your families make the best of difficult times.
Call us and find out how we can help you.
Will & Probate Services Reviews
Will & Probate Services
Bark Photos
Google Photos
Will & Probate Services Location
Eventus Business Centre, Sunderland Road, Market Deeping, Peterborough PE6 8FD, UK
Video Gallery
Will & Probate Services Q&A
What do you love most about your job?
It is the most interesting job in the world. Everyone is different.
We help people with the big things, Life, Death, Family and Money. Finding solutions to thorny issues is a speciality alongside helping when all hope seems lost. The more time I spend with people the more fascinated I get.
What inspired you to start your own business?
It was a family issue that couldn't be resolved. Nobody wanted to help so I set out to learn everything that I could about the world of Wills and Probate.
Why should our clients choose you?
The short answer is that I am the most respected estate planner in the UK.
The long answer is that I have 12 years experience specialising in Wills and later life issues, I am a Fellow of the Institute of Paralegals. I teach Law for the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives. I have served on the Legal Services Board Consumer Panel, The Society of Will Writers Senior Council and as Chairman of the TAS network of independent Will writers.
My business has transformed into a fast growing legal services franchise and we now offer the Will and Probate Services Experience in 8 locations throughout England and Wales.
Will & Probate Services Services
Lasting Powers of Attorney
Possibly the most important documents you will ever need. They allow the people that you trust to make decisions for you at any time that you can't. Without them you could be at the mercy of your local authority's social services department.
Will Writing and Estate Planning
Your Will is not just about giving your stuff away. It appoints Guardians for your children, can be used to save tax and protect assets. To find out more call us. We know that you have been meaning to get around to it.
Probate is the process that you have to go through when a loved one dies. It can impose a large burden on you at a time of grief. So let us lift your burden. We do all of the administration and deal with the paperwork. Leaving you free to grieve. Call us today for a fixed fee quote.
Will & Probate Services on Twitter
Find companies like this!
Whatever your requirement, Bark will help you find local companies like
Will & Probate Services.
Just post your project to Bark and we'll find the most suitable companies for you.


text:
QUEBEC—Parti Québécois leader Pierre Karl Péladeau will personally pay the contract of a headhunter tasked with recruiting a director for a new institute on Quebec sovereignty.
"I am at the origin of this idea to create the institute and I will defray the costs," he told a news conference Thursday.
Péladeau said the timetable for the creation of the institute, which will produce studies on the advantages of Quebec independence, has not been finalized.
"A headhunter has been mandated to find the management (of the institute)," he said.
Péladeau insists the institute will be independent from the PQ, but members of the legislature from other parties said the situation raises questions about possible links between the two.
Liberal house leader Jean-Marc Fournier said it would be difficult for the province's chief electoral officer to not conclude there is a convergence of interest between Péladeau and the institute.
"Let the (electoral officer) check the entire file, but for the moment the evidence we have is that the leader of the PQ says he wants an institute and the leader of the PQ is determining the selection criteria," he said.
"It will be difficult not to see a convergence."
Last month, Péladeau sent a cease-and-desist letter to François Legault, leader of the Coalition for Quebec's Future, who suggested Péladeau might run afoul of Quebec's election laws if he personally helped finance the institute. The PQ leader threatened to do the same to the Liberals for similar criticisms.
On Thursday, Legault said Péladeau must clarify whether the money is a loan or financing.
He questioned whether the PQ leader could finance more than $100 — the annual limit in Quebec for an individual to contribute to political parties — in an organization that would be promoting sovereignty, which is Article 1 of the party's program.
Péladeau's office would not divulge the value of the contract for the headhunter.
The PQ has previously responded to the criticism by pointing out that the Federal Idea, a Quebec-based think-tank on federalism, has links with the Liberal party.
Premier Philippe Couillard did not comment specifically on Péladeau's financial involvement but said the institute would fail in its mission.
"Each time the PQ has tried to prove that financially and economically separation would be beneficial, they always fail," Couillard said. "They will fail again because it just doesn't work."
He said he wants to see the studies produced by the institute because "every time we have a new study from the PQ, we have a field day."


text:
6 Best WordPress Survey Plugins to Utilize
When visitors come to your website, you want to ensure that their experience is memorable. From your content to your graphic layouts, all items should be of the highest quality to ensure that they will come back for more.
Feedback is also incredibly valuable, as some visitors may have suggestions to improve your website. That's why it is crucial to utilize WordPress survey plugins for your site.
These survey tools can offer the critical feedback needed to make your website and or business grow. Here are six fantastic WordPress Survey Plugins that will help turn your website around in no time.
WordPress Survey Plugin from SurveyFunnel
SurveyFunnel is a responsive WordPress survey plugin for creating surveys, polls, questionnaires, and getting feedback. It has been designed to create curiosity amongst your website visitors and pull them into filling a survey or quiz info, ultimately leading to an increase in conversions rates and overall profits.
All of the quiz/survey functionality is entirely intuitive. All you need to do is configure the settings, enter your survey questions, add your autoresponder info and you're all set.
Some of the features of SurveyFunnel:
• Unlimited real-time surveys to gain as much information as possible
• Integration with all significant mailing services
• Create lead generation forms to capture leads
Plugin from Modal Survey
This plugin allows endless customizations for you to implement on your website. Visual appeal is at the forefront of design here, and Modal Survey doesn't skip out. This plugin has social media integration that allows you to track survey feedback in real time through social media, such as Facebook and Twitter. Here are some great features to the program that make it unique:
• It provides graphic elements and charts that help with data presentation.
• A customizable profile for everyone who participates in a survey.
• Progress bars to track survey goals.
Best Survey Plugin for Wordpress Website
Ignite Feedback Survey Plugin
This is a premium service that offers fantastic features for the user to implement on their website. However, it's recommended to start with a trial version first to ensure that it's the right fit for you. Here are some key highlights of Ignite Feedback:
• Advanced targeting to help find the right people to participate in surveys
• Allows poll sharing in real time.
• Interactive pop-ups on the site to grabs your visitor's attention.
Surveys by Feedback Cat
Feedback cat focuses on one area rather than many and excels in its execution of this method. This is a plugin to install and can be considered a great tool to use for your site. Here are some key features:
• The UI provides a user-friendly and charming visual approach for new visitors and returning ones.
• Sends email notifications with information that has been received from the survey.
• Easy to use, requires very little coding knowledge.
eForm Form Builder for Survey
The cream of the crop, eForm is one of the best premium survey plugins out there on the market. With a sleep interface and much more, this is the must-have for any serious web developer.
• Timers can be added to allow surveys to pop up during certain times, like when the website's reach peak traffic.
• Survey plugin is integrated with payment systems, such as PayPal.
• Features built-in animations for more visual appeal.
Advanced Poll For WordPress
Finally, Advanced Poll for WordPress is another fantastic survey plugin that will allow you to get the feedback you need with little effort. This plugin is easy to install and maintain and can be efficiently used by developers of all levels.
Here are some highlights for this plugin:
• Incredibly easy to get started with.
• Professional security options to avoid scammers.
• Different methods of implementation with either built-in widgets or shortcode.
No matter what size website you have, there will always be room for feedback. Make sure you utilize one of the fantastic survey tools to get your website and business moving in the right direction.


text:
Public Chapter 644 (here) requires each district to post a
link to the list of laws related to the rights of students and
their parents or legal guardians compiled by the
The list required to be posted can be found on the
department's website here.
Accessibility Statement: The Newport City School System is committed to providing a website accessible to the widest possible audience, regardless of technology or ability. This website endeavors to comply with best practices and standards defined by Section 508 of the U. S. Rehabilitation Act. For additional assistance or accessibility concerns, please contact (423) 625-0686, ext. 324. We continually strive to improve the accessibility standards of our website.
Copyright © 2019 Newport Grammar School


text:
The Clinical Radiology Officers group comprises the President and Treasurer of the College, the Clinical Radiology Vice-President, the Medical Director for Professional Practice Clinical Radiology and the Medical Director for Education and Training Clinical Radiology.
Further information about the roles and responsibilities of Clinical Radiology Officers. For enquiries please contact the Clinical Radiology Executive Officer.
- Dr C M E Rubin (Vice-President Clinical Radiology)
Ex Officio
- Dr A M Beale (Medical Director, Membership and Business)
- Dr W H Ramsden (Medical Director, Education and Training)
- Dr N H Strickland (President)
- Professor M P Callaway
In Attendance
- Dr J Dickson (President elect)
- Dr S P Harden (Medical Director elect, Education and Training, CR)


text:
Brick 1-Level and approximately 4,610 SF of living area and no carpet. Only Hardwood on Main Level and Ceramic Tile in finished daylight basement. 3 main level bedrooms, with California Walk-In closets, 2 1/2 baths Jack and Jill bath with separate vanities. Living Room, Dining Room, Very Open plan. Keeping Room with FP open to Gourmet Kitchen with Breakfast Bar, gas cooktop, double oven, 2 pantries,and convenient Screened Porch and Open Deck with view of mountains. 2-Car Main level Garage. Awesome Finished Daylight Basement for Huge Play/Rec Room. Arches Opening to Sitting Area with 2nd Fireplace, Wet Bar with Wine Chiller.Bedroom/Office and Craft Room with windows and Full Bath.Can be an in-law suite. Large Workshop, and additional Unfinished areas great for storage or Exercise Room. Seller is open to an Offer!
Single Family, 1 Story
3 Full/1 Half
0.22 Acres
Public Water Service
Sewer Connected
4,610 sq. ft
Yes - 2 spaces
Trace Crossings
School Information
Room Information
Main Floor
Detailed Room Information
- Rooms
- Inlaw Suite, Kitchen, Office, Playroom
- Bedroom(s)
- Master BR with Closet, Walk-In Closet
- Laundry
- Hookups in Laundry Room
- Kitchen
- Breakfast Bar, Eat-In Kitchen, Island, Butler Pantry
- Bath Description
- Jetted Tub, Linen Closet, Shared Bath, Combined Tub/Shower, Full Bath, Half Bath, Master Bedroom Bath
Interior Features
- Appliances
- Central Heat, Gas Range/Cooktop, Dishwasher, Disposal, Microwave Built-In, Electric Oven, Refrigerator
- Flooring
- Hardwood, Tile
- Cooling
- Central Air, Ceiling Fan(s)
- Heating
- Gas Heat. Forced Air.
- Basement
- Full, Daylight
- Doors/Windows
- Double Pane
- Fireplaces
- 2. Gas Starter, Stone, Ventless, Gas logs, Gas Burning.
- Additional Interior Features
- Attic Storage, Crown Molding, Smooth Ceiling, Window Treatment
Exterior / Lot Features
- Parking
- 2 Garage Spaces.
- Patio
- Deck, Patio
- Sprinkler
- Sprinkler System
- Pool
- Pool
- Pool Description
- In-ground, Community Pool
- Lot View
- Mountain
- Fence
- Fenced Yard
- Additional Exterior/Lot Features
- Street Lights. Cul-De-Sac, Interior Lot, Subdivision, Wooded.
Community Features
- Community Amenities
- Community Pool
Financial Considerations
School Rating Out of 10
|Public Schools
|Private Schools
Data Provided by GreatSchools.org
Walk Score measures the walkability of any address, Transit Score measures access to public transit on a scale of 1-100.
Walk Score
Transit Score
Active Market Trends
Source: MLS DATA
Median list price
Days On Market
Properties For Sale
Sold Market Trends
Source: MLS DATA
Median sold price
Sales-List Price
Properties sold
Median Sq. Ft. Price
Arrows indicate 90 day trend
Source: Birmingham Area Assoc of Realtors


text:
There was a brisk demand for the good show of cattle at Friday's sale.
The following a brief report of prices:
BULLOCKS: D Wilson, Clabby, Char £1050/440 kg. T Gilmore, Dromore, Char £950/370 kg, £700/330 kg. K Rafferty, Fintona, BB £935/440 kg. P Mulligan, Dromore, AA £1025/480 kg. J McClave, Roslea, Char £935/430 kg, Lim £830/320 kg. L McCutcheon, Clabby, Char £890/340 kg, £880/340 kg. S Smyth, Rosslea, Char £995/420 kg, Sim £800/410 kg, Char £800/380 kg. A McBride, Fintona, Char £820/320 kg. E Beggan, Rosslea, Lim £700/240 kg, £630/200 kg, £625/200 kg. S McAleer, Roslea, Lim £840/340 kg. J Pickens, Fintona, Lim £780/360 kg. R Farley, Caledon, Char £885/400 kg, Lim £820/360 kg, Char £795/380 kg. P S of La Fay, Derrylin, Char £730/340 kg, AA £650/240 kg.
HEIFERS: K Rafferty, Fintona, Char £970/460 kg, Lim £915/480 kg. P Mulligan, Dromore, Lim £960/500 kg, AA £920/480 kg, AA £720/380 kg, AA £710/380 kg. S Mellon, Fintona, Char £955/480 kg, £835/420 kg. K Kingan, Tynan, Char £880/430 kg, AA £725/400 kg. P Fee, Tempo, Lim £675/280 kg, £620/320 kg. J Melanophy, Belcoo, Lim £660/220 kg, £600/200 kg, £570/200 kg. L McCutcheon, Clabby, D'Aq £700/340 kg. J McAleer, Roslea, Char £670/300 kg, £595/260 kg.
SUCKLING COWS WITH CALVES: A Wiltshire, Fivemiletown, £1400 for a '07 cow with bull calf, £1390 for a '05 cow with bull calf, and £1340 for a '03 cow with bull calf. E Beggan, Rosslea, £1330 for a '10 cow with bull calf. K Kelly, Trillick, £1250 for a '05 cow with bull calf.


text:
2018 -- End-of-session review
2018 Legislative Session Review
Jump to navigation Skip navigation
2018 Legislative Session Review
End of Session Review, 2017
Published June 1, 2017
Criminal Justice Reform
H. 308 – Racial justice panel / Fair and Impartial Policing
This year's legislative session began with the need to address a significant failure from the previous session concerning education spending caps.
The 2015 legislative session started on a down note (major budget cuts were needed), was hobbled by increased political tension created by a gubernatorial election thrown to the legislature, deflated after abandonment of any immediate plans to create a universal-access publicly financed health ca
Significant strides were made this year in the legislature around a number of civil liberties issues. Here's a quick rundown of the high points (as well as some disappointments).Click the links for details.
It was a very busy session for civil liberties at the Vermont Statehouse this year. A number of positive bills with important civil liberties implications passed.


text:
You asked for it again and here it is! Time to ROMWOD with the crew. Plans are we will do this every three weeks moving forward. If you haven't had a chance to attend a ROMWOD class I suggest going. It's a great way to have an "active rest" day, improve mobility, and just chill.
Coach Jeff


text:
The shamed superintendent of the Roslyn, L.I., schools was sentenced yesterday to four to 12 years in prison after a blistering hearing in which a judge branded him a "traitor" to his community.
Crooked official Frank Tassone admitted stealing $2.2 million in a scheme that milked more than $11 million from the district.
He spared no expense for trips to the Caribbean, gambling junkets to Vegas, luxury autos and gifts for his longtime gay lover – a defendant in the scheme.
The 59-year-old administrator was the last of six defendants in the largest ripoff of a school district in the nation.
"Today you are a traitor . . . and have committed treason against our community and our society," said a stern Judge Alan Honorof, acting Nassau County Supreme Court justice in Mineola.
The disheveled Tassone, his once-perfect hair rumpled and unkempt, sat glumly in an orange prison jumpsuit, his hands shackled before him.
Then, choking back tears, he mumbled his first public apology since the scandal broke two years ago.
"I am deeply sorry to the people of Roslyn, to the youngsters of Roslyn. . . . I am sincerely sorry for what I have done," he said to the packed courtroom.
The sentencing in Mineola – where angry students and parents filled the hearing – came only after authorities were forced to shackle him to his hospital bed and arrest him last week after he repeatedly missed court dates.
Tassone pleaded guilty to grand larceny in September 2005.
Had he gone to trial, he could have been sentenced to up to 25 years.
He also was ordered to pay the $373,895.20 he still owes of the money he stole.
His emotional apology did little to assuage one school official, who angrily addressed Tassone before the sentencing.
"Parents entrust you with their children, they entrust you with our future," said Cliff Saffron, a member of the school district's board of trustees.
"No one in Roslyn would use the term 'noble' to describe Dr. Tassone.
"Other words come to mind: fiend, felon, crook, criminal, scoundrel and svengali.
"Anything positive you may have accomplished during your tenure in Roslyn was washed away in one fell swoop, your own personal tsunami of arrogance, entitlement, materialism and avarice," he added.
Tassone was handcuffed and placed under arrest last Wednesday at Lenox Hill Hospital in Manhattan after missing his scheduled sentencing for the second time in three weeks.
On Monday, he was transferred to the Nassau University Medical Center jail unit in East Meadow to be closer to the Nassau County courthouse for yesterday's sentencing.
Tassone was hospitalized last month with a possible heart attack and missed his Sept. 19 sentencing, which had been rescheduled for Oct. 4.
When Tassone failed to appear again, Honorof issued the arrest warrant.
In all, six people, including Tassone and Pamela Gluckin – the district's former superintendent for business – pleaded guilty in the scandal.
State auditors found that $11.2 million was stolen from the district between 1996 and 2004, but because some of the records are missing or were destroyed, prosecutors were only able to link about $7 million to Tassone and his codefendants.
Gluckin was sentenced last month to three to nine years in prison and agreed to repay $4.3 million.
Last March, Tassone's longtime lover, Stephen Signorelli – whom Tassone involved in the scam – was sentenced to one to three years for his role. Sources said Tassone also cheated on Signorelli with other men and gave evidence against him.
After that hearing, Signorelli's lawyer, Kenneth Weinstein said Signorelli still loved Tassone.
The superintendent lived like a sultan off his loot, booking luxurious cruises overseas, taking trips to Britain on the Concorde, filling his home with fancy furniture and splurging on glitzy jewelry.
Tassone's shopping bill for simple items for his Manhattan home ran an uncommon $30,000 – for toilet paper, pet food and laundry.
To reward both himself, Signorelli and other gay lovers, Tassone made frequent trips to the ATM for cash advances totaling more than $1 million, prosecutors said.
After Tassone's hearing, one angry student vented about the effects of the outrageous scandal, noting how others now viewed students from the oncerespected district.
"Oh, you're from Roslyn. That's a joke," Dianne Milner, 17, quoted others telling her.
Disgusted, she then added: "He didn't look at us when he apologized."
Since the Roslyn scandal broke more than two years ago, school administrators in several other districts have been charged with misusing, or in some cases stealing, taxpayer funds.
Sometime in the mid1970s, state officials looking to cut spending decided that school districts no longer warranted outside audits and left spending reviews to local school boards, state Comptroller Alan Hevesi said.
Since the Roslyn scandal broke, Hevesi has gotten approval to add more than 80 investigators to his staff to specifically monitor school spending.
The Roslyn school district is located in a wealthy community 20 miles from Manhattan.
The village within the town of Hempstead has a median household income of $101,622.
It sends 95 percent of its high school graduates to college, and boasts student SAT scores that are among the best in the nation.
With Post Wire Services
Tutors and looters
More than $11M was swiped from the Roslyn School district, about $7M linked to ex-Superintendent Frank Tassone and his co-defendants. Tassone spent the money on:
* Cruises
* Gambling
* London hotels
* Concorde trips
* Fast cars
* Dog food


text:
Posts Tagged 'WPlus9'
Christmas in July 2017 #5
Good morning!
Today I am sharing card 5 for Christmas in July! Some time last year, I made a list of my Christmas stamps and papers to "match up" along with different coloring methods.
I used a stamp set from WPlus9, paper from Echo Park and distress inks to color the images.
I used Blueprints 15 from MFT to make a layout for my card. The embossed panel was made with Echo Park's Pine Boughs folder.
Have a great day!
Stamps: WPlus9 Friends for All Seasons Winter
Ink: Ranger Archival Jet Black, Tim Holtz Distress inks: Rusty Hinge, Barn Door, Mowed Lawn
CS: MFT Kraft and Jellybean Green, Canson Mix Media
PP: Echo Park I Love Christmas
Other: WPlus9 Friends for All Seasons Winter dies, Echo Park Pine Boughs embossing folder, MFT Blueprints 15
Christmas in July 2016 – Day 2
Today's Christmas card features WPlus9 stamps, Authentique papers and watercolor pencils.
The image from the Merriest Wishes stamp set was watercolored with Lyra Aquarell pencils and fussy cut. Both patterned paper layers were cut with the WPlus9 Sunshine Layers dies. It doesn't show well in the picture but I added Fun Flock to the elf's hat.
Have a great day!
Stamps: WPlus9 Merriest Wishes
Ink: Ranger Archival Jet Black
CS: MFT Kraft, Canson Mix Media watercolor paper
PP: Authentique Believe
Other: WPlus9 Sunshine Layers dies, silver brad from my stash, Stampendous Fun Flock


text:
Steven is an eighth grader who's so good at drums he plays with the high school All-city jazz band. He's had a thing for the hottest girl in school, who hardly notices him, since elementary school. He has a five-year old brother, Jeffrey, who drives him absolutely nuts, as little brothers tend to do. But when Jeffrey falls off the stool in the kitchen and won't stop bleeding, Steven's life is turned upside down.
Drums, Girls & Dangerous Pie is one of the most funny sad books I've ever read. Sonnenblick captures the thoughts of a teenager dealing with school, girls, music, and having a sibling with an illness.
Find out more about Drums, Girls & Dangerous Pie by looking in its Evernote File


text:
By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga
The Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPA) said a black bug infestation in Barangay Batuan, La Carlota City has damaged 4.6 hectares of rice plantations.
OPA head Japhet Masculino said the black bugs caused burn manifestation, or nutrient burn, to rice plantations owned by La Carlota City Councilor Amalia Aguirre.
The OPA head released a warning to farmers in neighboring areas, suggesting they should closely monitor their respective fields because there is a chance the infestation could transfer to neighboring plantations.
Masculino said they are now conducting interventions in the area.
He also advised affected farmers to replant their fields, with the OPA offering seeds for replanting.
Masculino estimated the damage to Aguirre's plantation at P200,000./DGB, WDJ


text:
We live in a pretty small apartment in the city of Chicago… so smells tend to spread.
The ever obnoxious stinky fridge…
Last nights bean burrito…
Too many banana peels in the trash…
Someone's old running shoes…
All these staaanks can travel from the bathroom, to the kitchen, to the bedroom and back! My solution is the DIY de-staaank spray. Some may call is a poo-pourri spray, other's may call it a room spray, but whatever you call it… it's easy to make and can easily replace those air fresheners that do nothing but make your home smell like poo and chemicals. Not to mention most of them have formaldehyde and other carcinogens that are no good for you.
Here's what you'll need:
- 2oz Spray Glass Bottle
- 1 Teaspoon Witch Hazel, Rubbing Alcohol or Vodka
- 10-30 drops of Essential Oil (Click here to find out more about how to get Young Living Essential Oils for 24% off)
- 2oz ish of Water (just fill the rest of the spray bottle)
Some great oils to use are Lavender, Lemon, Lemongrass, or Orange.
You can also use your favorite blend like, Purification, Abundance, Joy or Citrus Fresh
It depends on your personal preference. To me Joy is too floral. I prefer a combination of Lavender and Lemongrass.
Have fun making your de-staaank spray (it take a whopping 2 minutes haha!) and tell me how it went! What oils did you use for your spray? Share your thoughts with me and Monika in the comments!
Want to get started using Essential Oils for yourself and save 24% every time you order? CLICK HERE to get the Young Living Essential Oils Starter Kit and our FREE guide "6 Ways to Start Using Essential Oils"! We'll be in touch within 24 hours ❤ Erika & Monika


text:
Wednesday, July 11th, 2018
Announcements & Upcoming Events
Free "Intro to CrossFit" Class for anyone completely new to CrossFit. Tell a friend, bring a friend, come support someone new! Saturday, July 21st from 11am-Noon. Register Here!
Next Defined Lakeview On-Ramp – Sunday, July 29th: Contact Coach email@example.com, to schedule your Q&A intro session or hold your spot in our next On-Ramp.
We are starting a new cycle today. Our 2nd testing phase of the year will follow starting on: August 6th.
Week's Preview: Week 1/4
Friday: Wendler Sumo Deadlift + Team WOD with rowing/wallballs
5 Rounds: 1 Minute @ each station/ 2 Minute Rest at the end of each Round
Min 1: Double Unders X 35 reps
-Scale to 35 seconds of Single unders or Double Under Practice
Min 2: Single Arm KB Snatch X 15 reps
-using a KB that you can cycle reps with minimal rest
Min 3: Toes to Bar or V-ups X 15 reps
Min 4: Double DB Squat X 15 reps
-using 2 DBs that you can complete 15 squats unbroken
Min 5: Sprint-Run 200 meters
-Sub Row X 250/175 meters if needed)
Rest 2 minutes


text:
#best at travel
best at travel
Never had any experience with them, so can t help there.
Just be sure to read the terms and conditions VERY carefully. It seems that many posters complaining about websites would have made their lives easier if they d just had a thorough read through of the terms and conditions before making a purchase.
We booked our holiday with Best at travel earlier this year.
This was my biggest mistake and the worst experience of our travel lives !
I guess you may get away with them if nothing goes wrong with your holiday before. during or after.
But be aware – if they do mess up – they mess up big and totally not interested in solving their own mistakes.
The holiday we had – was not the one we chose. and paid for – but Best at travel interpretation of what our holiday should have been like according to what we have paid.
They managed to waste 8 weeks of our lives solving nothing.
I guess it was their strategy from the start – try to waste as much time as they could – so there is not enough time to go to arbitrage as we were faced with pre-departure dispute.
I am not going to tell you all 8 weeks of this nightmare but here are some of Best at Travel pearls which may give an idea of what they are:
" we will upgrade you from a SEA VIEW VILLA ( we originally booked) to a GARDEN VILLA"
– Brilliant. I just cant resist this upgrade.
It took us another 3 or 4 weeks to explain Customer Service girl and her manager that it cannot be possible considered " an upgrade"
only to hear in return. " well, in our opinion – it is a brilliant free upgrade!!"
" we had to cancel your original stay at this hotel due to unforeseen circumstances. The hotel is having planned building works during your stay"
So, to sum up – that is UNFORESEEN PLANNED BUILDING WORKS- have you ever heard of them before.
" we can assure you that no further disruptions to your holidays will be during your stay "/
Ok, could you then please add a compensation paragraph in case there are further disruptions. "
Reply – NO, we cannot compensate you if there are further disruptions.
" we did not cancel your holiday package. we simply cannot provide you with the hotel stay you booked. "
And loads of other ones. which I am sure will stay with me forever.
Other more complex problems we had:
-totally ignoring Travel Regulations;
– customer service – it appears that basic listening and comprehending skills were not present at a time.
They are bonded by ABTA.
But let me tell you this – ABTA will not do much for you other than tell you how to go to arbitrage court and how much it will cost you.
I actually do not understand now what is the purpose of ABTA existence?
They do not solve disputes but provide rather vague guidance, which any travel regulation will provide you with anyway. In addition you have to wait something like 28 days reply from them for something you already knew from diy reading.
Oh well, stay away from best at a travel and you live happily ever after !


text:
Revealed - The popular library books flying off the shelves in Suffolk
PUBLISHED: 19:14 09 October 2018 | UPDATED: 22:05 09 October 2018
There is nothing quite like curling up with a good book - it makes life that little bit better.
That message is more important now than ever before, Suffolk library bosses say, as we reveal which books have been flying off their shelves this year.
In a week that has turned the spotlight on reading and its link between mental health and wellbeing, the top ten most borrowed books for children and adults have been unveiled.
Classic favourites like The Tiger Who Came to Tea and The Gruffalo make an appearance in the children's top ten – several decades after they were published – while bestselling novels such as The Chalk Pit and The Midnight Line rank highly for adults.
Baking queen Mary Berry tops the adult non-fiction chart, while Daniel Lipkowitz's LEGO awesome ideas is a hit with the kids.
Bruce Leeke, newly appointed Suffolk Libraries chief executive, said much of what the organisation does is designed to support individual wellbeing – and make life better through a shared love of books.
"We provide a huge variety of content, events and experiences designed to engage, inform and entertain," he said.
"Much of what we already do is designed to support individual wellbeing, and make life better for our customers.
"This week is National Libraries Week and it is a great opportunity to celebrate the positive impact libraries have on people across Suffolk.
He added: "This year's focus is on wellbeing, and there is a proven link between reading regularly and maintaining positive mental health and wellbeing.
"This is particularly the case for young people, with recent research by The National Literacy Trust showing that children who are the most engaged with literacy are three times more likely to have higher levels of mental wellbeing than children who are the least engaged."
Soaring numbers of youngsters took part in the organisation's Summer Reading Challenge this year, with library bosses hoping 2018 attracted record participants.
And a love of reading is something this newspaper is keen to create in youngsters.
With our Books for Schools promotion, we are giving away £20,000 worth of books to primary schools in Suffolk.
READ MORE: Free books up for grabs with Books for Schools campaign


text: Hackney Arts logo refresh, web design and print design Identity refresh and web design for Hackney Arts, an arts platform and social enterprise based in East-London. – Logo Refresh 2017 Keep the generic feeling but make it more interesting and arty. – A4 Folded Activities Programme Flyer September – December 2017 – Styleguide and concept website design, art direction, photo editing and layout design for all pages. www.hackneyarts.com Brief – Logo refresh: keep the feeling and the diamond shape but make the logotype live better with it. Printed Programme: find an interesting way to list all activities, using new logo. Website: easy to navigate with, clear, bright. Main focuse on the the activities, list them by date and place. Using the programme styleguide for banners and graphics. Prev Portfolio


text:
Archive for mission
BAM and churchPosted by: | Comments
With the different wiring and issues facing the mission-oriented person (MOP) and the business-oriented person (BOP), there are several options for how to be about business as mission (BAM). The first option is to determine that one type of individual and resulting strategy is categorically right and the other is always wrong. There are a host of issues that make this a poor choice, so let's put this choice aside for now. Second would be to allow that both have merit and each MOP or BOP should find his or her own way. I have seen cases where this has and is happening, but often with poor results. A third option would be for the church to come alongside the MOP or BOP person and resulting proposed strategy and speak into the conversation, process and strategy. This is, I am convinced, a super healthy way to move forward.
If mission belongs to the church, then BAM is a tool or strategy for the church to use. The church is uniquely positioned to be able to work with the MOP to bring some BOP(s) into a collaborative relationship to be able to speak into strategy and process. On the other side of the scale, the church can bring MOP(s) into a consultative relationship with the BOP person being sent out to provide balance and perspective.
The church that is seeking to take rightful ownership of the commission of Christ can as a healthy body help in addressing strategy in a range of areas including resourcing whether it be expertise, legal counsel, capital fund-raising, business plans, missional living coaching, etc. The church is key in seeing the gospel go forward. If she takes ownership of this responsibility, then she should also prepare to work in a range of ways and strategies including BAM.
As this happens, there will be a slew of new questions to address. At the base level, the church will do well to look to answer the question about her role both if and in BAM as a strategy for her people to reach out to those to whom they have been sent.
business as mission?Posted by: | Comments
There is a rising interest and practice in the use of business to do mission. With this comes both new opportunities and new challenges. As I have been involved in this some over the years in a couple different iterations, I thought it would be helpful to begin writing on the topic here from time to time. Following are some revised notes from a chat I facilitated last month with Skybridge Community. The follow-up post will deal with the church's role in business as mission. While this would not normally be a first post on BAM stuff without laying more groundwork, I have promised to get this up for use by a church I am currently in consultation with on the topic. Of course, we can always go backward in the future…blogs are fluid!
There is, I believe, a distinct difference between mission-oriented people (MOP) that are seeking to use business and business-oriented people (BOP) that are seeking to be on mission. When the MOP speaks of business as mission (BAM), they are usually talking about a platform. For the BOP, when speaking about the business aspect of BAM, they are usually thinking more in terms of a profitable, self-sustaining business model. Both of these have value. At the same time, both wirings come with some difficulties (more on this another time).
Most people will be able to self-identify quickly as being either a MOP or a BOP. Some natural ways to determine this would deal with whether someone is more comfortable developing a business plan or a ministry plan. Are they more comfortable interpreting financial statements or exegeting culture? Is reading business books and magazines more or less desirable than reading Christian literature? Does their conversation tend toward business or church models? Generally, a person will lean in one direction or the other.
The mission-oriented person (MOP) and the business-oriented person (BOP) will naturally have different questions and face different challenges.
Common questions and challenges for the MOP:
– What are opportunities to fund the mission effort?
– How can I get into meaningful relationships with non-believing nationals?
– How do I gain experience / credibility in business?
– How should I pursue / maintain excellence / professionalism?
– How much time do I have to spend on business type activities?
Common questions and challenges for the BOP:
– Where can I find good workers and legal structure to expand my business or outsource parts of my current business?
– What job / business model exists or is possible that fits my giftings and context?
– How do I balance work and mission?
– How can I practically be about the mission?
– How can I fully engage culture / be a learner?
Next BAM post: BAM and church
economics and plantingPosted by: | Comments
It is a common push at the end of the year. Often church leaders are encouraging members to make their contributions by the end of the year in order to get their tax credit. But what if…?
Sitting in a "missional business" that is hotel / hostel / restaurant here in Prague, some interesting questions came up at our table. What would happen to church planting in the U.S. if no tax credits were given to members for contributions? Businessman and JetSet participant Paul Mayfield shared that the normal tax benefit of the average person in the U.S. is a 30% realized return for contributions. If this incentive was removed, would it change the economics of church planting? Further, we discussed what would happen if other charities brought tax benefits to their donors while church contributions did not gain any value beyond itself. For those looking to help others but motivated by tax savings, contributions to nonprofits that were anything but a church would take priority.
Is it possible that assumptions are made about church planting based on economic realities that may fit the exegesis of our tax structure but not the exegesis of our culture? As these tax benefits are not available in most European countries, the question of economics becomes either more or less important. But which is it? Does this lead toward setting up business as mission opportunities, tent-making or other possibilities? AND what would removing or downgrading the economic issues from church or gospel planting do to how we implement in these areas in a current known or future unknown context?
launch of themissionbook.comPosted by: | Comments
Last week The Upstream Collective launched themissionbook.com–a new resource for so much that is mission. It was my privilege to help brainstorm a bit of what this resource could be as we were throwing around ideas for the development of a piece to advance the conversation of missions. The idea we dreamed up and the tool that was born did not match up exactly, but maybe that is a good thing. As collaborators, we are so pleased with what did come out as the still-in-development product. Sure there are still some web tweaks being done to the site (I was told it was done with j-query for any tech geeks out there that care about that stuff) but most importantly it's a place to join the conversation.
Share your one-page contribution. Comment on the voices that are out there. Feel free to share things you agree or even disagree with via Facebook or Twitter. As a tool for furthering the conversation of missions, we feel this one has all the potential to do just that and it has already started. Having you participate in the exploration and discussion could very well make it a more meaningful conversation.
that money thingPosted by: | Comments
Over the past months I have spoken with a number of people that are looking to go on mission, advance a church plant or do some humanitarian effort. Many times a primary sticking point is the funding aspect. I am convinced that there are large numbers of people that are eager to invest their lives in a greater cause if only they can pay the bills. In my mind, this presents a number of options including fundraising, doing business as mission (now being referred to by some as business for transformation) and/or pursuing missional living in an existing or future employment opportunity.
With increased interest in finding ways to do what one feels called to, new funding approaches will be essential. In doing this, I believe it will be helpful for individuals and organizations to look for incremental sources of money. This approach would allow for raising a portion of the funds in conjunction with finding other income sources. For example, a person could raise 50% of their funding, take a part-time job that supplies another 40%, and then have investment income fulfilling the remaining 10%. This incremental approach minimizes risk to some extent in that if one source of funding is impacted, still others remain. This means future disruptions are less impacting and easier to overcome. (Of course it is important to remember that this journey remains a faith-walk with tremendous risk that is best placed in the hands of the Faithful One.)
One tool that is just now coming on-line that already has buy-in from a number of very well-known mission leaders is Moolala.com. Similar to some other social network buying sites, this opportunity is unique in that for every purchase someone in your "paymatrix" network makes, you and/or your non-profit can generate 2% of income. With this going out to four levels beyond yourself, there is significant potential to generate a sizable paymatrix network with those that choose to work this approach. For example, if a person were to get 1000 people in their paymatrix, and each of these were to spend $50 per month purchasing deals that they would have already bought at greatly reduced prices, then the monthly incremental income would be $1000.
This is not AmWay as you are not selling anything. However, friends and family would likely be open to saving money especially if in doing so they can help advance your effort to go on mission and/or plant a church. This incremental approach may deserve serious effort especially while this is in its infancy stage in order to generate residual incremental income by encouraging your network to be a part of your paymatrix. If they generate a paymatrix and choose to donate the funds they make from that to your benefit, then all the better. (smile)
If you poke around on the site you will see that there are not any daily deals available right now. These are expected to be going up in the next 30 to 45 days. Now would be an ideal time to let your network become a part of your paymatrix so that when deals do start coming a potential viral spread of interest could help you increase this as an incremental income source.
Click on the link to get started using Moolala as a tool for incremental income as you seek to be about His business.
ethnocentric gospelPosted by: | Comments
If God's desire was only for a small, homogenous group to live in obedience to Him, the Old Testament would have been significantly different. For example, no mention or model would be found in Melchizedek. Neither Ruth nor Rahab would play a special role. The Ninevites would be left to their own devices and certain peril. Other altered stories would have included Balaam, Nebuchadnezzar and Darius.
If His plan was for only a select number from one ethnolinguistic people group in one geographic area to walk in the transforming love of Christ, then the New Testament would be radically altered–even more so than the Old Testament. If God's desire was not for the nations, then Jesus would have dismissed the woman at the well, the Syro-phoenician woman, the Roman centurion and the thief on the cross. He would not have pointed to a good Samaritan as the hero in the story. The day of Pentecost would not have included God-fearing Jews from every nation. Peter would have had to refuse the invitation of Cornelius. Philip would not have stepped into the chariot with the Egyptian official. Paul would not have written his letters to the churches, as none would be outside of Jerusalem. He never would have gone to the Philippian jailer's home because he never would have traveled to Philippi as a missionary called and sent out by the church in Antioch. And the church in Antioch would have looked nothing like it did. Jesus would not have spoken to the seven churches in Asia Minor. There would be no record in Revelation of "a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language standing before the throne and in front of the lamb" wearing white robes, worshipping God.
These stories and others similar in nature are still with us. They are recorded in the Bible. The reason for this is simple. These stories are key to the plan of God. Removing the above stories would cause the loss of some incredible tales–a huge fish swallowing a man, a talking donkey, a sheet coming out of heaven filled with animals of all kinds, potential jail breaks and so much more. But if these stories were to be removed, it would alter history and eternity forever. The story of redemption would be incomplete. Stories such as that of Rahab and Ruth are more than interesting. The love of God demonstrated to these two ladies from other nations is key to the genealogy of Christ. Following His birth, the Messiah is visited and worshipped by humble, pungent shepherds from nearby and by wealthy dignitaries from the East, possibly from modern day countries like Iraq, Iran or Jordan. Even in the Christmas story God makes clear that He sent Jesus for the entire range of the socioeconomic scale and for the nations. The vast, far-reaching plan of God begins to unfold both prior to and following the coming of the Savior.
(This is an excerpt from beyond myself and even our own city on the Reproducing Churches site.)
key question #1Posted by: | Comments
At the burning bush, Moses received instruction to go back to Egypt. Jonah learned that he was to go to the city of Nineveh. Philip left a movement of God, compelled to go into the desert. Paul, unable to go into Asia Minor, made a beeline for Philippi. God sent these men to these select places. The instruction was clear and direct, though each heard Him speak in a unique way.
When the church prepares to do mission, there are several key questions to ask. The first is, "To whom are we sent?" It is important before moving out to know where and to what people the Spirit is sending His people.
The people to whom we are sent may be similar to us like in the situation with Paul and the Philippians. Perhaps there will be some marked differences in language, culture and station such as with Philip and the Ethiopian eunuch. It is possible that we may be called to a people that we have disdain for according to the story of Jonah–though it seems a wrong understanding of the heart of God and his resulting disobedience greatly impacted his view of the situation and his fish bait outcome. It is possible that the Spirit will send us back to a people we have left as happens in the story of Moses going back to his own in Egypt.
It is a blessing to serve the sovereign God who, in advance, prepares good works for us to do. He is the one that sends us out. Because of this, before setting out on mission, a people will do well to seek God to learn from him: To whom are we sent?
city church. so much morePosted by: | Comments
From the beginning of the church in Acts 2, the gospel went out to the nations. After a short period of time, the believers were scattered and the gospel went again to the nations in Acts 8. Undoubtedly, God's plan for the nations is essential for the city church. Whether a church is the oldest, most traditional church in the community or the newest church plant, it is part of God's plan to be about taking the gospel to the nations. The city church is blessed with the calling to take the hope of Christ to its community and beyond.
When considering the scope of the call for the city church as she seeks to live sent, it may prove helpful to have thought about what did and did not happen in Scripture. If God's desire was only for a small, homogenous group to live in obedience to Him, the Old Testament would have been significantly different. For example, no mention or model would be found in Melchizedek. Neither Ruth nor Rahab would play a special role. The Ninevites would be left to their own devices and certain peril. Other altered stories would have included Balaam, Nebuchadnezzar and Darius.
If His plan was for only a select number from one ethnolinguistic people group in one geographic area to walk in the transforming love of Christ, then the New Testament would be radically altered–even more so than the Old Testament. If God's desire was not for the nations, then Jesus would have dismissed the woman at the well, the Syro-phoenician woman, the Roman centurion and the thief on the cross. He would not have pointed to a good Samaritan as the hero in the story….
(this is the start of a chapter posted on reproducing churches.com's discussion of City Church. Check out the whole piece and the other contributions on City Church starting on Sept. 22. They are all worthwhile!)