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Compiling Dossier
Because every family deserves the blessing of a child with Down Syndrome...
Alison is a single Registered Nurse. She has always dreamed of having children, but has not been so blessed. Alison has worked with children and adults with special needs in the past, including Down syndrome, and has always enjoyed it. One night, she had a dream that she and her sister were looking at a website of children for adoption with Down syndrome. When she woke, she did a search on her computer, and found Reece's Rainbow. After years of looking at the site, and much encouragement from family and friends, she decided to give it a try! There have been many roadblocks in the process, but she has finally fallen in love with the little girl she feels was meant to be her daughter!
Follow the family's adoption journey on their blog at achildforali.blogspot.com
Addison and Kristen have been married for almost 4 years and have 5 children between the two of them. Addison raised two girls who are now 26 and 24 years old. His daughters are both married. The oldest has two sons and the youngest has one son. Addison and Kristen adore all three of their grandchildren and are praying for more! Kristen raised three children. Her oldest daughter is 21, her son is 20, and her youngest daughter is 18. They started talking about the possibility of having a child of their own but because both of them thought they were "done" years ago, that wasn't possible. Adoption and fostering had been on Kristen's heart for many years, she just had to convince her husband! They became licensed foster parents a little over a year ago and since then have had 8 foster children in their home. The first time they brought a newborn home to foster, Addison heart began to open to the idea of adoption. As you can imagine, their hearts were broken when they had to say goodbye to that little one. They knew then that they had to start the adoption process, they just didn't know how they would come up with the money. Kristen began to research special needs adoption, specifically Down syndrome adoption when she came across the Reece's Rainbow web page. After looking over the page and falling in love with several of the children, she just knew that THIS was what she was called to do. She showed her husband some of the babies she fell in love with and although his response was warm, he didn't show the excitement that Kristen felt. Kristen decided to do what she could, and at the time, that was to make small donations to families that were in need. Then one day Kristen saw Greta's profile and read several blogs about her and she knew she had to do something more. She talked to Addison again and showed him some of the pictures of some of the available children. She also showed him a blog that was written for Greta and she could not hold the tears back. Kristen's heart was broken for the many orphans that needed a family so desperately and Addison could see how important this was to her. That day Addison's heart began to change and eventually he was open to getting more information on some of the children. Although he was afraid because of the cost, they agreed to commit to a child and they chose Noah from PRC. They struggled with the thought of the cost and the mounds of paperwork but are convinced that they are meant to do this.
After committing to Noah (soon to be named Corbin), they saw the face of another boy they just KNEW was their son. They received PA for their second child, they call Paxton, about a month after receiving PA for little Noah. They are so excited and can't wait to get their boys home. Addison and Kristen have stepped out in faith for these two boys and would appreciate any help they can get whether it be prayers, thoughts, or donations. They wish to send thoughts, prayers, and words of thanks to those that have and will be there to support them and to all the other families that are in this process. God Bless!!
Follow the family's adoption journey on their blog at ourprincesfromchina.blogspot.com
"Mom, we need to talk. I don't know if it's a thought that God keeps putting in my head or a thought that I keep putting in my head, but I think we should adopt a little boy." "I don't care which of you put it there, you need an eraser!" This was the conversation between my then 10 year old daughter and I in November 2009; a conversation that changed our lives forever. It was the springboard that flung us into the world of adoption! Within two weeks I went from being a single divorced mom of two biological daughters, to a committed adopting mom of a Russian son with Down Syndrome. Fourteen months of paperwork, praying, fundraising, paperwork, praying, 2 trips (5 weeks!) in Russia, and oh, paperwork and praying, my daughter and I brought home our little prince, Maxim Alexey.
After a crazy journey, I was committed to a 5 year old little boy in China, but his file hadn't been prepared because "he isn't as smart as the other children so nobody will want him." Well, that was all it took for me to know that he's a Stickley! They said that it would take a year to get his file prepared and that I would be looking at almost 3 years for the adoption to be complete. Did they really think that was going to scare me off? I decided that not only is he not "unlovable," he is worth the wait!
Then, less than a month later, I was approached about adopting a little girl from China who was 13 and only had 5 months to be adopted. The timing was perfect in that I could adopt her while waiting for the little boy's file to be compiled. Several agencies told me that it would be impossible to complete the adoption in the 4 month time-frame. Well, we proved them wrong! We have now had Ava Monet home for two months! God's timing is perfect!
While in China, I got to meet some of the wonderful orphanage workers from Ava's orphanage. I told them that I advocate for families for these children and asked if they had any other children for whom they would like for me to try to find families. They said that they would give me a website, but then we just all stood around socializing for a long time. Next thing I knew, they introduced me to a seven year old little boy, and the power between us silenced the room! "Mom, we have to come back for him!"
So, I am a blessed mom of two biological daughters (22 and 14), an adopted son from Russia (5), an adopted daughter from China (14), and I've just been approved to adopt BOTH little boys! Oh, did I mention that all 4 of my children from another mother have DS? Three of the four of them were listed on Reece's Rainbow. So, adopting two little boys right on the heals of a previous adoption has caused me to reach beyond my financial comfort zone and step out in faith. Any help and support will be greatly appreciated and I pray that God multiplies it in return to all donors! Thank you!
Follow the family's adoption journey on their blog tinastickleyadoption.blogspot.com
The Stickley family has a $5000 matching grant! Once their FSP reaches $5,246, they will receive an additional $5000!
God has richly blessed our family. God allowed me the honor of marrying my "high school" sweet heart. He blessed us with two children who are an amazing gift to my wife and I. We are a close family who loves time together and are thrilled to be in the process of bringing home our son from China! We began our adoption journey with a beautiful little boy we met on Reece's Rainbow by the name of "Ellison". The door to adoption closed when the Russian adoption law changed. Like many families our hearts were broken and we grieved…but God in his wonderful timing led us to this precious little guy who we can not wait to bring home as part of our family. I am a pastor in Alabama and my wife is a social worker. We, along with our children, are grateful that God in His great mercy is allowing us the privileged of adopting Frankie. I can not wait for the day when we are able to bring Frankie home. We love him dearly and he already is being used by God to teach us more about God's great love and mercy.
Please pray for us as we continue in the adoption process. Pray for "Ellison" and the other children of Russia that God would provide loving homes for each child. Pray for Frankie… God has wonderful plans for the wonderful little boy and I am honored to have a front row seat to watch His beautiful work unfold.
Follow the family's adoption journey on their blog at rickdeerman.wordpress.com
We are so excited to have Laurence/Lance join our family. I have had a heart for orphans starting at a very young age. I currently enjoy working in the field of special education, and have a great schedule for raising a family. I went back to school to get my Masters in Social work to hopefully start a ministry for orphans/foster kids someday. Although I have these big dreams, for right now, I am using what God has given me in the present moment. I didn't really plan to adopt overseas, mostly because of the huge expense. In fact, I got my foster care license so that I can adopt a child from foster care in this country. I guess God has other plans at this time, and I am trusting in Him to provide. Lance will join two brothers. My biological son is 8 years old and he is half-Chinese. Lance's other soon-to-be brother joined us in June of 2013 through a program called Safe Families and will be with us long-term. We are all looking forward to meeting Lance and have enjoyed the pictures and stories from so many people who have already met him and love him.
Follow the family's adoption journey on their blog at lovinglancehome.blogspot.com
Before Amy and Andrew had kids and went to bed nightly before 10pm, they used to travel the world and visit orphanages. It was there that they discovered the needs of vulnerable children and how even two young people can make a small difference for kids in need. Fast forward to now, they have 3 kids, a couple of them adopted from Russia a year and a half ago. These kids have made such a profound difference in their lives as they grew and experienced real love, that here Andrew and Amy are again, one more time. Although they have a fun and busy family life, they knew that they can provide a family for one more little one.
And when they told the kids it would be a little sister, they FLIPPED and talk about and pray for her daily, "Get one more apple sauce — for me LITTLE SISTER!"
She will be loved, she will be cherished. She will be read to, cuddled and eat a variety of home grown healthy food, go to the beach and have dance parties at home with her siblings. For anyone who donates to our little girl and helps us bring her home, we will love you forever. Literally.
Follow the family's adoption journey on their blog tinygreenelephants.com
Kelly and Bill met at a 4th of July celebration 3 years ago. Mutual friends decided to play matchmaker and succeeded! Bill asked Kelly out for coffee the next day and they spent the night talking about everything! The coffee shop closed and they moved on to McDonald's to finish off the night and the "rest is history!" Kelly was quite the package deal bringing 7 children into the relationship; she knew Bill was "the one" when he jumped right in and became an instant part of the family! They were married on May 04, 2013 and moved into their new house in June. In July Kelly asked him if he was ready to start an adoption. He didn't say no (Lol) so she called and set up a homestudy for the beginning of August. Rowen joined their family from Serbia on January 30, 2014! Rowen has that extra special 47th chromosome and everyone fell instantly in love with him so they quickly decided that Eight Was Not Enough and they are heading to China to bring home Silvie as soon as possible! Any help with fundraising is greatly appreciated since they so recently completed Rowen's adoption.
Kevin and Monica Gerber met in college at Liberty University and have been married for over thirteen years. They have 2 biological girls and 1 adopted son from the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo and have been amazed how God has grafted their son seamlessly into their family. God has used a simple act of obedience to love an orphan for his glory and they have watched with joy as countless others have had their hearts softened toward the plight of the orphans around the world.
They and their children are thrilled to be claiming York (Kennedy) and Flora (Ruthie) as their own from Asia. Kennedy is unable to walk due to post-operative hydrocephalus and Ruthie has Down syndrome. It is their sincerest hope that the gospel and God's love for the fatherless would be made famous and multiplied. They would be so thankful for your prayers and financial support.
Follow the family's adoption journey on their blog at www.facebook.com/gerber.family.adoption
Marc and Becky Collier began a relationship in the summer of 2003 and were married in August of 2005. God gave them two beautiful little boys, one in 2008 and one in 2010. After the birth of their youngest, they were sure they were done having biological children, but they were also sure that God had more children in store for them.
From an early age, both Marc and Becky understood the importance of God's call to care for orphans in James 1:27, and they both wanted to be used of God to reach out and care for orphans. They just weren't sure how that would look.
Throughout the year of 2013, both Marc and Becky, through studying God's word, praying, and receiving Christian counsel, felt as though God was bringing them nearer to the world of adoption, but they had so many unanswered questions. How would this fit into their world financially? How would this affect their two boys, one of whom has his own set of special needs? Should they adopt internationally or domestically? Two things they knew for sure: they would NEVER adopt special needs, and they would NEVER disrupt their children's birth order.
Ha, ha.
God placed two families into their lives who were starting the adoption process near the end of 2013. One family adopted a girl domestically; the other family planned to adopt two boys internationally. When shown the two situations, God immediately drew Marc and Becky to the pictures and the stories of the chilren who were wasting away in institutions, who were born into countries that chose not to see the beauty and importance in all human life. And it was apparent to them both that God was softening their hearts towards international adoption.
Early in January of 2014, their friends posted a blog called "Perfect Timing." On it were links to several other children that were in need of homes. All of them had special needs. Becky read the blog and clicked on the links. She went through them once, and said a prayer for each child, asking God to find them a family. When she was finished, she clicked on the last link for a second time. It led to a set of twin girls, born in August of 2007. And though she had just read their bio and seen their pictures, something happened the second time she looked at them.
Becky immediately sat down and wrote out a list entitled "Ten Reasons Why We Should Adopt Nadia and Nancy Now." She hung it on the door for her husband to see when he came home from work. He read it, chuckled, and hung it on the fridge.
The next four months were a time of very difficult growth for both Marc and Becky as they realized that the note on the fridge meant more to each of them than they wanted to admit. They began discussing the possibility of adopting children with special needs who were, in fact, older than their boys. Several times they decided that the idea of adoption needed to be put on hold for one reason or another, but the conviction of the Holy Spirit and the words of scripture would weigh so heavily on their hearts that the idea would once again be brought out for discussion.
Finally, in May, God made it clear that it was time for them to step forward, and so in faith, they committed to adding two to their family.
Follow the Collier family's adoption journey on their blog at www.Rebeccathesaint.blogspot.com
Chad and Kayla have been together for 10 years, and just celebrated their 6th wedding anniversary. Kayla has and in home daycare, and Chad works for a local coal mining company. They have been blessed with 4 beautiful children. Bella is 11, and Chad adopted her when they got married. Asher is 7, Cylus is 4, and Peerson is almost 2.
Chad and Kayla always knew that they would adopt. A friend was in the process of adopting and added them to a group on facebook that had profiles of waiting kids. 6 months later they saw a 3 year old boy named Beckham that was beautiful. They knew he would get a family quickly, but every time they would see his picture, they couldn't help but think he could be their son. He had a family committed to him, but something happened and he was listed as available again. Chad and Kayla talked about whether now was the right time to adopt. Beckham has untreated hydrocephalus, agnesis of the corpus callosum, and a cyst on his 3rd ventricle, so they had to make sure the care he needed would be available in their area. They got the confirmation that every month a team from mayo would be 45 minutes away, and wanted to take Beckham as a patient. This was the time, this was their son! He would finally have his forever family, and they would have the final piece of their puzzle.
Rex and Melissa have a wonderful family and have been blessed with three biological children, but adoption has always been in the forefront of the couples mind as a way to grow their family. Melissa, especially, has been thinking of adopting since she became familiar with Reece's Rainbow back in 2007. In her early career, Melissa worked with many young children with special needs and was drawn to the work being done through Reece's Rainbow. After filling their tree with ornaments of the precious kids that had touched their hearts Rex and Melissa were drawn into the idea of adoption after falling in love with one of the children featured on the website, Susan. After much discussion and prayer, the couple, along with the support of their children and families, made the decision to look into adopting the little girl that had captured their hearts. After contacting the placing agency they began researching the adoption process and decided to make this precious little girl part of their family.
Follow the family's adoption journey on their blog at all4hannah.blogspot.com
The Darrow family met Tatiana when they were in Eastern Europe several years ago, adopting their twins. They came home anxious to see Tatiana with a family of her own. As they have watched the twins blossom, Tatiana has remained on their hearts. Eventually they realized that the time was right to add Tatiana to their family, as well!
Follow the family's adoption journey on their blog iveyrock.wordpress.com
Christie and Raymundo met in June 2000 while they were both living in Hilton Head, SC. It was a chance meeting that changed their lives forever! Two people who probably would have passed each other on the street and not given it a second thought, were now on a path that neither would have predicted.
Raymundo (Mundo) was born in Mexico and always had a passion for learning English and traveling to the United States. When the opportunity arose to come to the US, he seized it! The hardest part of the trip was leaving his family. However, they were (and still are) very supportive of his dreams and urged him to go. Christie is also from a loving family and, at the time had been moving around the country working for Marriott.
Skip ahead almost 14 years later – Christie and Mundo have been married for 11 years and have biological daughter named Laura. Laura is 7 years old and in the 1st grade. Christie now works for the public school system in Savannah, GA as a special education teacher and Mundo works within the hospitality industry. They had been thinking of expanding their family for several years, but wanted to do it through adoption. They both felt that there were too many children who were already here in this world that needed a home and a mom and dad to call their own. They thought of fostering to adopt and made several attempts through the local social services, but it just wasn't the right time or place.
In September, Christie welcomed a new student into her classroom who had been recently adopted from Ukraine. After getting to know his family and learning about the conditions that children with disabilities face and the grim outlook for their future if not adopted, Christie felt the calling to find a child for she and Mundo. Upon finding Reece's Rainbow and searching for children with Down Syndrome, Christie and Mundo found Evan! After much discussion, tears, and prayer, Christie and Mundo made that first step to bring Evan home to live with them. Their daughter, Laura, is beside herself with excitement and cannot wait to be a big sister! Every day she talks about the things that she is going to teach Evan to do.
The Orta's believe that they were led to Evan and that God is calling them to adopt this sweet boy into their family. Many fund-raisers have taken place with LOTS of support from friends, family, and the community! They have loved getting updates on his progress and seeing his pictures as he has grown the past several months. However, no update or picture could ever take the place of holding your child in your arms. They are anxiously waiting for the day when they can board the airplane to bring their son home.
Follow the family's adoption journey on their blog at evan4theortas.weebly.com
Aaron and Julie first met in seminary and have been married for 17 years now. They have two biological children – Winter (12) and Noah (10). Aaron is a pastor and Julie is working for the local school system.
When Aaron was in seminary he tried to make a few deals with God. First, he told God that he would do anything for Him – except be a youth pastor. Second, he would do whatever that was anywhere in the world- except India. Well, God has a really great sense of humor. After graduating from seminary, Aaron took a job as an accounting clerk with the University of Maryland, biding his time and waiting for a ministry opportunity to open up. Four years later, he really was ready to do anything just to be in ministry…. even be a youth pastor in the inner city. And guess what, he loved it! During those years working for the university, Aaron met his best and lifelong friend, Suresh, whose family is from India. Do you hear God giggling yet? Because this man who wanted to do anything but work with kids or go to India is now desperate to go to India and become a father to more kids.
For Julie, it began at age 12 when her mom took the family on a missions trip to Mexico. It was there in the hotel pool that she was baptized and felt that she was called to the ministry. Every summer following this, Julie traveled with missions teams working in orphanages throughout Mexico and Guatemala. She attended seminary and married Aaron and 2 kids later, the passion for orphans and adoption was still burning in her heart. Right around the time that things were looking financial stable and they were ready to pursue adoption, Julie's father became ill. She quit her job so that she could care for him in his own home, as was his wish. Julie's father was also adopted (domestically as an infant). The years caring for him were overwhelming, but priceless. When he passed away, Aaron and Julie took the inheritance they received and used it for the upfront adoption costs. Now, not only will a lifelong dream of Julie's heart be fulfilled, but her father's legacy will be carried on as his granddaughters are adopted into this loving family.
Follow the family's adoption journey on their blog at cardamomandpoprika.blogspot.com
After a wild roller coaster adoption ride that ended in heartache, the Isom family is back and ready to go full force in their new adoption process. Through a selfless and heartfelt act by another RR family … the Isoms are beyond grateful and overjoyed to have the honor of one day calling this sweet little girl their Daughter.
John and Jenny met in high school and became instant friends. After high school John served a full time mission for their church. When he returned 2 years later the two ran into each other and the rest is history. Ten years later htey have two awesome little boys. Linkon is 5 years old and Hank is 2 years old … both wild energetic funny little boys. Their family also consists of a little dog named George, one rabbit named Rosie, a bird named Pecky and a bearded dragon named Turbo.
They are all excited to share this amazing journey with you and appreciate your love and support.
Hardships often prepare ordinary people for an extraordinary destiny. – C.S. Lewis
Andrea and Jesse met and fell in love on a co-ed soccer team in 2004, he was great & she was not, but they've been teammates ever since. Jesse works in Property Management & is the Worship Leader at their church. Andrea stays at home with their son, Jackson (adopted), and any foster children they may be loving on at the time. While serving the homeless in their city the DeBoer's became increasingly aware that most of the people they met on the streets came from broken homes or were lacking family. The DeBoer's both come from large families & love family life, they recognize their adoption by God is the single most significant part of their heritages, and they realized that extending their family through adoption and foster care was one way they could stand in the gap between brokenness & life on the streets. Andrea and a friend came across Reece's Rainbow, saw one beautiful smile that stood out in particular, and was heartbroken over the plight of orphans and orphans with special needs. The DeBoer's had no intention of adopting internationally but continued to learn more about the orphan crisis. In the time since, they became licensed foster parents & adopted Jackson. In 2013 Andrea saw a face on social media that looked familiar, went back to RR & sure enough it was that same little boy. She asked, Jesse said 'Yes!' and they began the adventure to bring Jaeger home to their family!
The journey is long & complicated, and the costs are high, but the DeBoers know that Jaeger is worth it! They would be grateful for your support, either financially or through prayer, as they go after their little man.
The Davenport's are a family of four, soon to be six that live and serve in Central China (since 2012). Eric and Wendy have been married for 13 years and have two sons that are 11 & 12 years old. They have been touched by and passionate about orphan care since 2009. That's when they spent time in an orphanage in Africa and then later that year welcomed their first foster baby into their home. They fostered 5 children over a two year period. Those years spent as foster parents were treasured times. They continue to reminisce about the little ones that God placed in their home and in their hearts. They didn't initially feel led to adoption but, after moving to China and working with orphans in 2012, God did a mighty work in them and in their hearts to draw them towards the decision to provide a permanent home to children who need a home. For that they are so thankful! They feel so clearly directed by God to adopt that they want to obey Him. God desires for orphans of all nations to be loved, cared for, and adopted into families.
They are well into the long process of providing a 'forever home' to two boys in China. They have been matched with one child and are awaiting a match to the second. They will be traveling to get their first Chinese son in the spring of 2014. He was involved in an accident at the age of two that nearly took his life. He spent 6 months in the hospital and was abandoned during that time. He had multiple surgeries to help repair his injuries. He has recovered and can walk, talk, run and play. He is incontinent and wears a diaper. His incontinence prevents him from attending school.
The biggest challenge is not opening their hearts and home to adopted children (God has already taken care of that!), but it is finding the finances to make this happen. The estimated total cost for the adoptions is $40,000. That's certainly money they don't have. Actually it's laughable from an earthly standpoint. But they know God is faithful and the call to adopt was so strong that He won't leave them alone in this. He is a God who provides.
They are overwhelmed by the support they have been given through encouragement, funding, and prayers. They would like to ask for continued prayers as the process unfolds. Please also pray that their boys in China will be loved and cared for in their absence and daily feel His presence.
Caring for the fatherless is a mark and responsibility of His people and they believe God is moving through the Kingdom in a profound way to care for these precious ones. Perhaps your role is adoption or fostering. Maybe it's being a prayer warrior for the least of these. Or maybe you are called to use the resources He has entrusted to you to help welcome children into Christian homes. If so, please consider helping them overcome this financial hurdle.
Please pray this entire process will glorify God and fulfill His purposes. Thank you for investing in the Kingdom through prayer and finances—it will be an investment with an eternal return!
Stephani has always wanted to be a mother. Since she was a little girl, she knew she would have a big family and at least some of her children would arrive through adoption. She thought her family was going to be starting in 2009, when she found out she was pregnant. Sadly, God had other plans and her daughter Emma was stillborn.
Stephani found Reece's Rainbow in 2011, through a friend that was adopting, She would spend hours looking at the children, reading their stories, hoping that soon, the time would be right to adopt. When a friend posted about "Zola", Stephani knew instantly that hits little girl was meant to be her daughter.
Stephani was raised by a single parent and understands the struggles that lie ahead but knows that with God's blessing and the love and support of her family, she is ready to provide "Zola" with a bright and happy future.
A sincere thank you to everyone for your prayers and financial support.
Follow the family's adoption journey on their blog at snowandhotcocoa.blogspot.com
If you knew me you would know that I have a rather shy personality. I don't like to share personal experiences or do things that might draw too much attention to me. But if you knew me you would also know that I LOVE being a mom more than anything else in the world. I LOVE having babies. I love the entire process. I pray daily for the blessing of more children. I can't wait until I can have another baby. I know it might sound crazy when I already have 5 beautiful children, but I dream every day about having more children. I have always wanted 7 children, my 7 beautiful dwarfs in my fairy tale life. My children bring me more joy than I ever knew existed, and they make my life perfect, each in their own unique way.
I have always thought about adopting a child. I can do without all the different social media like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Pinterest, but I find myself searching Reece's Rainbow constantly. Even though I have this overwhelming desire to adopt, the thought of not going through my favorite part of being pregnant got in the way of really considering it. I worried that by adopting a child I would be taking away from my family, and I was afraid.
In November of 2013, I came across a little girl on Reece's Rainbow that stole my heart. She is a Down Syndrome girl from China that is 2 years old. It was love at first sight. Her eyes were calling to me and I felt an instant connection to her. I really don't know how to fully explain it even now, but I knew in an instant that she was meant to be a part of my family. I sent her picture to my husband and told him that this was our baby. He didn't know whether to take me seriously or not, but he fell in love with her on that day, too. Time went by and I looked up this baby daily, and my husband, seeing that I was indeed serious, agreed that we needed to look into making Ruthanne a part of our family. We inquired about her, but did not hear back.
The next thing I knew I was pregnant. I was SO excited, but something inside told me something wasn't quite right. I could not stop thinking about Ruthanne, but thought that because I was pregnant that I was not meant to adopt her. I tried to move on, but I still had a nagging feeling that something was not right. It was so hard to let go of my thoughts of Ruthanne and it was very confusing for me. I also knew in my heart that my pregnancy was not going to be okay.
I remember lying in my bed, so scared because I felt inside that the road I wanted to take was not the one that my Heavenly Father had planned for me. The next day I started to miscarry my baby, and I was beyond devastated. I have never felt such pain and heartache. As I prayed for comfort I had an overwhelming feeling that Heavenly Father had a different plan for me, and later that day I received a phone call from an adoption agency telling me about Ruthanne. When I got off the phone I knew from the top of my head to the tip of my toes that this was the plan my Heavenly Father had for me. I remember dropping to my knees and praying and feeling complete peace. As the weeks went on I tried to convince myself that I was just emotional and was making myself grasp onto something to try and get over losing a baby, but tiny miracles each day verified that this truly is a divine plan.
I have never had to have faith to this degree. I am terrified and excited, both at the same time. I will be adopting a child from China with Down Syndrome. How will she fit in with my curlyhaired, green-eyed children? Will I be able to care for a child with special needs? This beautiful girl will be with me forever and she will need my full attention, will I be able to give her what she needs and deserves while still having enough left inside to give to the rest of my family? How will this change my perfect family? Will I feel the same about her as my naturally born children?
What will my family picture look like? Will people think I am crazy? After all, I will have 3 year old twins, two 2 year old girls, one with special needs, and yes, I still hope to have one more. How will we pay for the large adoption fees? These are all the thoughts that have been racing through my head. And every time I pray about it, to seek the confirmation that I am doing the right thing for my family and Ruthanne, I receive the same answer. Have faith, and everything will be as it should be.
So, here I am. I am adopting a beautiful Down Syndrome child from China. Right now I don't understand why I am supposed to do this or why I am worthy of this important task. I am terrified. What I do know without a doubt is that I am meant to take this road, and Ruthanne is meant to take this journey with me. I know that if I have faith in my Heavenly Father and his divine plan for me and my family then we will all be blessed. This is not where I thought I would be in my life, but I now truly understand what it means that "My thoughts are not your thoughts neither are my ways your ways" and that sometimes you must forward with faith even when, or perhaps especially when, you can't quite clearly see why. I will move forward with faith that I have never had before. I am afraid, but I have trust in the Lord and know that He is leading me on this journey. I know with all my heart that this is the path my family is destined to take, and I know that we will not take this journey alone.
Follow the family's adoption journey on their blog itstartedoutasafeeling.com
Mark and Mary have been married for 25 years and have 5 children, the last of which was adopted from China in 2013. They are in the process of preparing their dossier to bring sweet Linny home. Mark is a patient, stay-at-home dad, who provides care for the three remaining children at home. He has a history of Traumatic Brain Injury and leads an independent life including coaching baseball and basketball. His experience with therapeutic interventions will help him to be his daughter's biggest cheerleader and support as she makes progress toward independence. Mary is a practicing Speech Language Pathologist who will assist their precious daughter to the highest level of communication independence. Mark and Mary look forward to bringing Linny home from China as soon as possible. Please help with your thoughts, prayers and support to bring sweet Linny home. She has waited way too long.
Follow the family's adoption journey on their blog at maryaske.blogspot.com
Chris, Kami, and their two young daughters' journey toward adoption started before they even recognized it as such. Even upon marriage, Chris and Kami talked hypothetically about a desire to adopt "one day." In the midst of losing three sweet babies to miscarriage over the course of 12 months in 2011-2012, God revealed that "one day" was much sooner than they would have guessed. Slowly and surely, they have been reading and researching, praying for waiting children, supporting others' adoptions, and prayerfully seeking God's timing for their blessed opportunity to give a child a family. They are excited that the time has come!
They feel unequivocally called to adopt a waiting child from an Eastern European orphanage. They are excited to pursue little Ladybug to give her a family, the chance to learn about Jesus, and the opportunity to reach her highest potential. They acknowledge that this will be difficult work. But they know that our God is our Redeemer, our Comforter, and our Strength. And, they simply believe that every single child is a blessing – regardless of his or her abilities, history, future, or labels the world has attached to them. They covet your support in this endeavor and ask for your prayers for Ladybug and their family.
Follow the family's adoption journey on their blog forgoodblog.wordpress.com
Jacob and Sarah had that "love at first sight" moment 10 years ago at Dallas Baptist University and never stopped living the fairytale. Jacob is a risk manager at Alliant Enrisk and Sarah stays home with their 4 children ages 2, 4, 6 and 7. After the birth of number 4, they knew they had room in their hearts and home for one more and started looking at Recce's Rainbow for the perfect child with "something extra." They were surprised when the "something extra" turned out not to be a chromosome but a sibling. Their plans changed the moment they laid eyes on them and suddenly their hearts and home found room for 2 more. The whole family is so excited to welcome their new brother and sister.
Follow the family's adoption journey on their blog at justusholts.blogspot.com
The Abrams have been married for 22 years and have been blessed with 3 amazing daughters age 20, 16 and 12. They live in San Diego, CA where Tim is a firefighter and Michele homeschools their daughters. They are a silly family with lots of joy and they have always wanted to adopt. The Lord opened a door when their 16 year old daughter, Ember went to China on a mission with close friends. The Abrams fell in love with all of the disabled orphans Ember cared for. But one sweet blind boy stole their heart and the Lord began to give them faith to adopt him. They are working hard to get their dossier finished and bring their son home.
Follow the family's adoption journey on their blog at www.adopttimmy.com
Katherine has worked with children as a social worker for almost 14 years. Around 6 years ago she decided she was ready to become a mom. After carefully researching different options she decided on international adoption. She was hoping and praying for the perfect toddler to add to her life. After waiting for a referral for a year she found her first daughter in Bulgaria on the waiting child list. Katherine quickly updated her dossier to match her daughter's age and special needs and excitedly prepared for her. Maria came home from Bulgaria June 2012 and Katherine entered parenthood with a preteen. The past two years Katherine has been focusing on managing Maria's spina bifida and ensuring that Maria has the opportunities to experience life fully. Katherine also spent time helping Maria's close friends find from the orphanage adoptive families. Over the past two years it has been obvious to Katherine that their family is not complete and that Maria misses having the close sibling relationship she had with specific peers in the orphanage. Over the past year Katherine has considered starting the adoption process, but that was put on hold this past spring due to Maria needing 3 unexpected surgeries. Thankfully Maria is recovering well. This summer Katherine saw Layla and knew that she would be the perfect little sister for their family.
Follow the family's adoption journey on their blog at adoptingsinglemom.blogspot.com


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Showing posts tagged Hugo
Countdown to the OscarsBy // January 24th, 2012
Hollywood is all abuzz this morning, because the nominations for film's most prestigious awards were announced. Martin Scorsese's Hugo was honored with 11 nominations, and The Artist was close behind with 10. So which nominations were a surprise, and who got snubbed this year? Many are happily surprised with the supporting nominations for popular comedy actors Melissa McCarthy and Jonah Hill, and agape at the lack of Best Actor nomination for Leonardo DiCaprio and his performance as J. Edgar Hoover.
So who do you think will win this year's top Oscar honors? Will the showdown between good friends George Clooney and Brad Pitt end in one taking home the coveted statue, or will newcomer to the Oscar scene Jean Dujardin best them both for his turn as a silent film actor in The Artist? Will Meryl Streep win her third Oscar for portraying Margaret Thatcher in The Iron Lady, or will Michelle Williams triumph for becoming Marilyn Monroe in My Week with Marilyn? Here at Ask.com, we'll be watching the show on Sunday February 26, and updating our answers live to make sure we have the most up-to-date info possible! And in the meantime, there are so many movies to watch!
Emily Kidder, Knowledge Engineer/Answer Geek

subset: commoncrawl


text: Kannapolis fire safety educator earns state recognition Monday, February 25th, 2013 Text size: A A A Tweet Back To Story Wayne Goodwin, left, N.C. Insurance Commissioner; Ernest Grant, N.C. Jaycee Burn Center, 2012 B.T. Fowler Lifetime Achievement Award recipient; Maria Bostian, Kannapolis Fire Department, 2012 Award of Excellence recipient; and Dolly Hulin, Thomasville Fire Department, N.C. Fire and Life Safety Education Council Chair. (Submitted photo)


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23 February 2011
With the New Year in full swing, employers are looking for unique conference venues that will bring out the best in delegates.
The Shepherd Neame brewery in Faversham, Kent, offers a cost-effective meeting facility just an hour from London, ideal for conferences, seminars and inspiring away-days.
Read more
There are now two more great reasons to visit the Tudor Rose pub carvery at Borden and The Aviator on the Isle of Sheppey.
Diners can choose between a free bottle of house wine when they spend £25 or more on food or the choice of a free starter or dessert with any main meal ordered.
22 February 2011
Shepherd Neame brewery has been announced as a finalist in the Small Visitor Attraction of the Year category at the Enjoy England Awards for Excellence 2011.
Shepherd Neame was named the regional winner in the Beautiful South Awards in October last year, and has now been shortlisted along with three other attractions for the national accolade.
21 February 2011
Shepherd Neame has picked up one gold and two silver medals at the Brewing Industry International Awards, dubbed the Brewing Oscars.
Japanese lager Asahi won gold in the keg lager category, and Chinese Sun Lik picked up silver in the same group. Both lagers are brewed under licence at the Faversham brewery. Whitstable Bay Organic Ale also received a silver award in the small pack ale category.
16 February 2011
Last week I had the great pleasure of being a Judge in the 125th Brewing International Industry Awards held up in Burton upon Trent. There were 796 entries in the competition, samples sent in from all over the world. The judging panel was comprised of 30 brewers who were onganised into small groups for the initial round of tasting.
Contact us by email
Contact us by phone
Shepherd Neame LimitedThe Faversham Brewery17 Court StreetFavershamKent. ME13 7AXUnited Kingdom


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I recently set myself a challenge that will see me cook every single recipe from one of the many cookbooks I own. To keep it fun and economical I choose the recipes from the book "Homemade" at random.
Depending on what I have in my larder or what is being delivered in the organic box scheme, I aim for a new recipe every other day.
If you like to challenge me on my journey please suggest your recipe from the book and I will post you the results. I hope you enjoy my blog and temporary topic deviation.


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INGLEWOOD, Calif. (July 6, 2011)—Chris Skotz was the winner of the two-day NHC Firecracker Handicapping Challenge July 3-4 at Hollywood Park.
The Challenge was a Super Qualifier for the 2012 Daily Racing Form/National Thoroughbred Racing Association National Handicapping Championship to be held next January in Las Vegas.
The top 10 finishers earned spots in the National Handicapping Championship. The winning total of Skotz was $314.50.
Since Skotz had previously qualified for the NHC, 11th place finisher Zev Lederman was the final qualifier.
The rest of the qualifiers: Gary Bain, Brett Kelly, Cheryl McIntyre, Stanley Bavlish, Gary Johnson, Bruce McCraig, Mark McGuire, Dan Harris and Cara Yarusso.
Copyright © 2009-2014, Hollywood Park. All rights reserved.


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Big Knife – Big Fish!
We thought we'd start the new year with something fun – and what can be more fun than this proof-of-concept trailer for a film about sushi chefs fighting sea monsters?
January 8, 2013 Posted by lavietidhar | Uncategorized | movies | Comments Off
The World SF Blog ran from 2009 to 2013. It offered news, links and original content in the form of commentary, round table discussions, essays, interviews, author highlights and original and reprint fiction from around the world.
The site won the 2012 BSFA Award for Best Non-Fiction, a 2012 Kitschies Black Tentacle (Special Achievement) Award, and was a 2011 World Fantasy Award nominee.
The Editor-in-Chief was Lavie Tidhar.
The Associate Editor was Charles A. Tan.
Fiction Editors were Debbie Moorhouse and then Sarah Newton.
Contributors to the blog have included: Anil Menon (India), Guy Hasson (Israel), Kaaron Warren (Australia), Mihai Adascalitei (Romania), Aliette de Bodard (France), Fábio Fernandes (Brazil), Lauren Beukes (South Africa), Harry Markov (Bulgaria), Joyce Chng (Singapore), Athena Andreadis (Greece), Nick Wood (South Africa), Karin Tidbeck (Sweden), Rochita Loenen-Ruiz (Philippines) and many others.
Between 2010 and 2013 the site has published fiction by Samit Basu (India), Zen Cho (Malaysia), Nir Yaniv (Israel), Ma Boyong (China), Tow Ubukata (Japan), Theodora Goss (USA), Ekaterina Sedia (Russia), and many others.
DISCLAIMER: The opinions expressed by contributors to the WSB are solely those of the individual writers and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the WSB administrators. All data and information provided on this site is for informational purposes only. The WSB makes no representations as to accuracy, completeness, currentness, suitability, or validity of any information on this site.
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text:
Shaw R2X Hard Surface Cleaner
Health 1
Flammability 0
Reactivity 0
Personal protection rating to be supplied by user depending on use conditions.
2. Hazardous Ingredients
Ethylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether, CAS 111-76-2, < 1%
3. Physical Data
Density: 1.02 +/- 0.02 g/ml
pH: 6 to 8
Water Solubility: Soluble
Boiling Point: 100 degrees Centigrade
Odor: Pleasant Fruity
4. Fire and Explosion Data
Flash Point: Greater than 200 Fahrenheit by PMCC
Extinguishing Media: water spray, foam, dry chemical or carbon dioxide
Special Procedures: Evacuate personnel to a safe area, avoid breathing decomposition products, fire fighting personnel should wear respiratory protection.
Unusual Hazards: Emits toxic and corrosive fumes when burned.
Chemical Stability: Stable
Incompatibility: None.
Polymerization: Will not occur.
Decomposition: Thermal decomposition may produce oxides of carbon and nitrogen.
Toxicity: Not acutely toxic.
Carcinogenicity: None of the components present in this material are listed by IARC, NTP, or OSHA.
Exposure Limits: Not established
Safety Precautions: Avoid excessive contact with eyes, skin, and clothing. Wash thoroughly after handling, especially before eating, drinking, or smoking.
S R2XHS Shaw R2X Hard Surface Cleaner
7. Employee Protection
Engineering Controls: Use adequate ventilation. Vent fumes outside work area. Use NIOSH approved respirator if airborne concentrations pose a health hazard. Emergency showers and eye washes should be available in work area.
Eye Protection: Wear safety glasses or goggles.
Skin Protection: Wear impervious gloves and clothing suitable to prevent skin contact.
Other: Do not consume food, drink, or tobacco in areas where they may become contaminated by this material. Always wash hands thoroughly with soap and water before eating, drinking, and smoking.
8. First Aid
Inhalation: Remove to fresh air. If not breathing, give artificial respiration. If breathing is difficult or respiratory tract is irritated, consult a physician.
Skin Contact: Remove contaminated clothing. Flush skin with mild soap and water.
Eye Contact: Flush eyes with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes and consult a physician if irritation persists.
Ingestion: Consult a physician.
9. Disposal Information
Spill, Leak, or Release: Contain spill and salvage as much material as possible. Pick up remaining product with absorbent.
Waste disposal: Dispose of product only by methods approved by federal, state, and local regulations.
10. Storage
Store above 55 degrees Fahrenheit. Keep container tightly closed.
11. Transportation
DOT Proper Shipping Name: Not Regulated
DOT/IMO Proper Shipping Name: Not Regulated


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People found car parts, van parts or 4x4 parts cheaper and faster! Let's show you how it works...
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I havent bought cod4 or 5 yet, so hopefully the prices will go down
I havent bought cod4 or 5 yet, so hopefully the prices will go down
This game has lost its competitive edge with all the new releases.
damn activision is like shitting out games they are making new ones so fast i can't keep up
CoD4 was amazing. The only CoD version i liked, so i will probably be getting CoD6.
dude i cant wait for this game to come out its going to be sooo sick !@!!!@!@
From urban environments to jungles, to arctic wastelands... Still seems great to me. Hope they have cooperative campaign modes in this as well!
EDIT: (comparing environments from different COD's, not MW2 specifically, though that would be nice having a multi-environment campaign.)
Josh "Spikey00" Y.
My lonely forums.
Cant wait


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Gray and Gold Showhouse Living Room
This sitting room's gorgeous millwork inspired its elegant palette, created by Michael Carter for the Boston Junior League Showhouse. "I knew I wanted to implement some changes that would highlight the millwork details instead of letting them recede into all-white walls of paint," says Carter. Soft grays coat the walls, the darker of the two adding depth to the moldings. Gilded details throughout further accentuate the crown molding around the walls and over the mantel. The seating elements are appointed in shades of gray spanning from airy silver to velvety slate.
Design: Michael Carter


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SPEC Kit 296 explores public service staffing, reference and public services offered, methods of patron access, types of intellectual access tools used, patron registration, the reference interview process, and public service evaluation and promotion methodsin Special Collections. In addition, respondents were asked to comment on significant changes in reference and public services in the last few years, particularly those related to outreach, instruction, and learning. It includes documentation from respondents in the form of service policies, patron registration forms, job descriptions, and service prices.
This publication is available for purchase in both online and print versions. Download the spec-kit-purchase-options-2013.pdf for complete pricing and purchase options information.
Link to the online SPEC Kit 296 on the ARL Digital Publications website.


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- 22 Resorts
- Consistent Snow
- Diverse destinations
- Resorts open before those of many other states
- Home to Vail, Beaver Creek, Copper Mountain
"Fun and pretty empty today! Thanks to all the lifties for a great attitude all season! PS- if Purg management reads this: Invest in corner mirrors for the Columbine parking lots! Almost got slid into trying to leave the lot after a few powder morning sessions."
"great day, too bad season is over 2 more weekends. "


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Great news for anemia sufferers! Chlorophyll is such a fantastic product that's good for so many things. Because molecules of chlorophyll from plants have a similar structure and function to hemoglobin in human blood, taking chlorophyll can help relieve anemia caused by a low red blood cell count. Chlorophyll stimulates the production of red blood cells and helps carry oxygen from the lungs to the body and the brain, which means more energy for you. It is sometimes recommended that women take chlorophyll during menstruation and after childbirth to lessen a heavy flow and the accompanying exhaustion.
Chlorophyll has great cleansing properties as well. It's been called an "internal deodorizer"—not the catchiest of titles. But regular use of chlorophyll can improve bad breath, as well as lessen the odors of urine and feces, and odors accompanying perspiration.
Chlorophyll is also an anti-oxidant, which means that it attacks those "free radicals" alleged to be a contributing factor to many types of cancer. Its anti-inflammatory properties help with the repairing of wounds. All in all, it's a great thing to take on a daily basis.
Manufactured in the USA.
FDA Disclaimer: * This statement has not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
|Nutrition Facts
|Suggested Use
|take one teaspoon daily
|Other Ingredients
|Vegetable Glycerin, De-ionized Water, Peppermint (Mentha piperita) Oil and Potassium Sorbate. A Vegetarian Formula.
|Contains NO
|Sugar, salt, starch, yeast, wheat, gluten, corn, soy, milk, egg or artificial flavors/colors.
|Caution: Chlorophyll contains a green pigment that could stain your clothing. Handle with care. Shake well before use. Refrigerate after opening.


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Customers who bought this item also bought:
If you enjoy realistic vibrator sex toys but wish you could have a more comfortable and customized feel, the Bend Me Baby vibe is just what the doctor ordered!Embedded inside the vibrator's shaft, is a flexible, bendable core that allows this sex toy to be bent and posed in any number of positions for easy enjoyment!This special feature allows the Bend Me Baby vibrator to be angled for G-spot pleasure before penetration and also gives the shaft the ability to move with your body in the throes of passion.
*Vibrator is Made of Flexible Jelly Material
*Vibrator Shaft has a Special Bending Core
*Dial Base Controls Multi-Speed Vibrations
*Powered by 3 AAA Batteries (Not Included)
*Waterproof Design for Bath Time Bliss
*Fun for Beginners, as well as Intermediate and Advanced Sex Toy Users
*This Vibrator is 7 inches long and 1 inch wide
Inside the base of the vibrator's translucent pink jelly shaft, a bending joint allows the shaft to be shifted in any direction for a uniquely pleasurable sensation. The smooth tapered head features a true-to-life shape with a veined texture below for super erotic penetration. A pair of molded testicles at the bottom of the vibrator shaft makes a great handle when things get heated up. The surface warms up to your body temperature as you relax and indulge your erotic whims for a truly amazing sex toy session.
An elongated bullet motor in the vibrator tip, just below the head, sends strong shivers cascading down the shaft for waves and waves of orgasm as it slides inside.For added fun, the vibrator can also be bent to curve against the body externally, placing the tip against the clitoris for solo satisfaction.To adjust vibrations from a gentle purr to an intense buzz, simply twist the small dial on the base to the left or right until the speed feels just right.
The Bend Me Baby Vibrator is totally waterproof, and can be taken along for a warm bath or steamy shower and worry free water play – simply tighten the cap before using in water. This vibrator sex toy is also easy to clean; just wipe the surface down with mild soap and water or toy cleaner after each use.
Due to manufacturer pricing policies, we are unable to offer further (all) discounts on this item.
|Waterproof, Realistic shape, Textured shaft, Adjustable, Multiple Speeds, Flexible
|7.0 inches
|Cal Exotics
|1.50 inches
Special Features
|Waterproof, Bendable Shaft
|3 AAA batteries (sold separately)
Power Source
|Uses Batteries
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Truman College
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10/14/2014NACCE Names 2014 Intuit Impact Award Winners
10/14/2014NACCE Honors Three Community College Alumni for Their Entrepreneurial Achievements
10/14/2014NACCE Honors Student Entrepreneurs at 12th Annual Conference
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My name is Carrie, and I'm a college student with a passion for playing music, puppies, and Pinterest (much to my boyfriend's demise). I'm a radio announcer-- but an introvert. I have a love for baseball and all things related to the beach. A Californian with a fierce loyalty to the San Francisco Giants.
Provence, France.
Greece, please.
Content Copyright Carrie(d) Away
Watercolor Theme by Sara White


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As Heard on WTOP
On-Air Interviews
Did you hear an interview on WTOP FM? Click to find a chronological list of most the interviews aired on WTOP. Listen on demand or download to listen at a later time.
How to get the most out of your insurance?
Janet Bodnar, editor of Kiplinger Personal Finance
The pope has left the building
Allen Pizzey, CBS News
Health insurance for your pet
Dr. Katy Nelson, veterinarian
Sequester is not a scam or is it?
Cal Thomas and Bob Beckel, commentators
Warnings on effects of budget cuts exaggerated
Michael Tanner, senior fellow, Cato Institute
Chevy Chase couple thrilled after Oscar win
Sean Fine and Andrea Nix Fine, Oscar winners, Best Documentary Short
If Obama stays course, effects of sequestration will be worse
Peter Morici, economist, University of Maryland School of Business
One day before potential sequester, damage is already done
J.J. Green, WTOP's national security correspondent
Tense relationship between White House and media over sequester
Jim VandeHei, executive editor, POLITICO
Voters in time will get angry over sequester cuts
Stan Collender, author of "The Guide to the Federal Budget"
Expect 60- to 90-minute delays as airport runways close under sequester
Ray LaHood, U.S. transportation secretary
Best credit cards for balance transfers
John Kiernan, senior analyst, CardHub.com. Best credit cards for balance transfers.
How sequestration affects healthcare
Gail Wilensky, senior fellow for Project HOPE
Latest sequestration news ahead of Friday
Dotty Lynch, CBS News Political Consultant
Saving money with tablets
WTOP's Tech Guy Gregg Stebben
Woodward feuding with White House over sequestration
James Hohmann, National Political Reporter for POLITICO
Supreme Court heard arguments over portion of Voting Rights Act
Andrew Cohen, CBS News Chief Legal Analyst
White House to nation: the cuts are coming
Major Garrett, CBS News Chief White House Correspondent
A taxing day
Chris Core, commentator
Three factors that can't be ignored in gun control
Jim Johnson, chief of police, Baltimore County
Hi: 59 °F | Lo: 47 °F


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© 2013 MGM Resorts International.
All rights reserved.
Privacy Policy
We didn't invent entertainment—we perfected it. Enjoy star-studded events at the Grand Garden Arena as well as world-class shows, dining and nightlife. Revel in the beauty of our stunning new nightclub Hakkasan with DJs Tiesto, Calvin Harris and Steve Aoki. And live in the moment at KÀ™ by Cirque du Soleil®, Brad Garrett's Comedy Club, and the intimate Hollywood Theatre, home to world-class entertainers including David Copperfield. MGM Grand is the Entertainment Authority.
And when you can't be at MGM Grand in person, consider this your daily dose of all things Vegas: updates on what's new, the inside scoop on our entertainment and guest DJs, recipes from our world renowned chefs, celebrity sightings, and any other fun stuff we come across. It's our way of staying connected with our fans, and bringing you more of what you love about Vegas.
Thanks for visiting.


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B&Q is the UK's leading DIY and garden centre retailer and is nearly twice the size of its nearest competitor.
UK & Ireland
Products in store*
B&Q is the UK's leading DIY and garden centre retailer and is nearly twice the size of its nearest competitor. Its stores offer around 40,000 inspirational home improvement and garden products for the homemaker, occasional to serious DIY'er, and trade professionals.
B&Q Ireland offers a wide range of home improvement products, using both the larger Warehouse and smaller, mini-Warehouse stores.
B&Q is continuing with its renewal programme which includes updating product ranges, introducing more services, and improving the store environments to include more "shop within shop" areas devoted to specific product categories. Improved "showroom" areas to display kitchen, bathroom and bedroom ranges are also being added. Customers can buy a large range of items online at www.diy.com.
* Data correct: 2 August 2014


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Main Content
Keep your head on the island set of mind when you rock this 8mm Rasta Bead necklace from Fad Treasures!
- Beaded necklace
- Button & loop closure
- Vibrant colors
Other Customers also liked:
Special event items are produced by manufacturers only after the outcome of a game or event. These are advanced sale items and will ship immediately after they are received in our warehouse.
Manufacturer direct items are shipped directly from the manufacturer. These items are not available for international or expedited shipping.
Customized items can be personalized with options such as your name, your favorite number, and/or designs. Some options may be limited by league rules.


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Red Butte Garden, a part of the University of Utah, is a non-profit organization located in Salt Lake City, Utah. With over 100 acres including display and natural gardens, walking paths and natural areas with hiking trails, Red Butte Garden is the largest botanical garden in the Intermountain West that tests, displays, and interprets regional horticulture.
To cultivate the human connection with plants and the beauty of living landscapes.
A community that understands,values, protects, and is enriched by the world of plants.


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Addresses changes to Section 108 of the Copyright Act due to passage of the Digital Millenium Copyright Act.
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ARL 21 Dupont Circle NW #800 • Washington, DC 20036
Phone: (202) 296-2296 | E-mail: firstname.lastname@example.com
"Blog" symbol by Alex Berkowitz, from The Noun Project collection.
"Community" symbol by Rémy Médard, from The Noun Project collection.
"Gears" symbol by Jeremy Minnick, from The Noun Project collection.


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Scotts Valley High School's varsity football team could not be stopped, scoring 68 points through three quarters in a blowout of Harbor High School on Oct. 20.
The Falcons (3-5 overall, 2-2 Santa Cruz Coast Athletic League) will host Santa Cruz High School for homecoming Friday, Nov. 2. The freshmen will play at 3 p.m., followed by junior varsity at 5 p.m. and varsity at 7 p.m.
Two weeks ago against the Pirates, star running back Ari Wargon ran for 115 yards and four touchdowns on 11 carries in the 68-19 triumph.
Emmanuel Johnson and Willie Johnston caught touchdown passes from quarterback Jake Lobo, and Andrew Stumbo and Deonte Balhin both caught touchdown passes from quarterback Garrett Johnston.
Anton Galewski had a 94-yard interception return for a touchdown and Jake Rehnberg had an 87-yard touchdown run for the Falcons to complete the scoring.
Lobo, the backup quarterback, finished 3-for-3 with 125 yards passing and two touchdowns while starter Garrett Johnston was 5-for-7 for 127 yards and two scores.
Cougars fall to league-leaders, Maze jersey awarded
After taking a 24-21 lead early in the third quarter, San Lorenzo Valley High School ran out of gas against league-leading Soquel High School in the Cougars' final home game of the season on Oct. 20.
The Knights would score 25 unanswered points to defeat the Cougars 56-24 in what may have been the final home game for Coach Doug Morris.
Following the game, Morris was honored for his 25 years as top coach of the team. Many have speculated that he will announce his retirement at the end of the season.
In addition, senior Derek Poetzinger was awarded the No. 21 Maze jersey in honor of David Maze, a Cougar football player who was killed in a drunken driving accident before the season in 1997.
After Soquel jumped out to a 21-0 lead, the Cougars stormed back on a 68-yard touchdown reception from Isaac Newberry to Lucas Sinnott, a 48-yard scoring pass to Jordan Reynolds from Newberry and a 1-yard scoring strike from Newberry to Robbie Biaggiotti. Ben Knudson hit a short field goal after halftime to give the Cougars the short-lived lead.
SLV will play their final game of the season Friday, Nov. 2 at Aptos High School. The game is scheduled for 7:30 p.m.


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The luck of the Irish…
In this case, it is luck and skill. Edward Fitzgerald Burns has had success since his first film Brothers McMullen seventeen years ago, which was made on a budget of $25,000 (and grossed over $10 million) and filmed at the house he grew up in as a child. Today, still creating his signature films, Mr. Burns filmed his latest project at his childhood neighbor's house – The Fitzgerald Family Christmas.
I met up with Ed Burns at City Winery on Wednesday, December 18 to chat about his family, films, the Irish and Chicago. On that evening, City Winery Founder/CEO Michael Dorf presented a discussion of wine and film with Ed Burns to a sold-out crowd. Mr. Burns chose the films and Mr. Dorf chose the wines. The movies that were presented included: She's the One, The Fitzgerald Family Christmas, Nice Guy Johnny, Newlyweds, and Sidewalks of NY.
Tell me about the Burns' family roots?
We don't know where the Burns are from exactly. They probably came over during potato famine sometime in the late 1840s. The earliest record we found is a census report from 1880 tracing the Burns family to Hell's Kitchen in New York. The Fitzgerald side of the family has been traced to the County of Cork in Ireland.
Have you taken your children (Grace, age 8 and Finn, age 6) to Ireland?
We [my wife, Christy Turlington, and I] go to Dublin every other year. Grace has been there once, and our little guy Finn hasn't made the trip yet. They are so young they still believe in Santa, not sure for how much longer. I told my children that Santa is magic, he picks up a snowball in the North Pole, boom, turns it into a bicycle.
What do you think about Notre Dame's football team playing for the National Championship?
Growing up in New York, college football wasn't popular, we had two professional teams. However, being an Irish American guy, I am very excited for the big game, and have been keeping an eye on Notre Dame.
What do you love about Chicago?
My movies always do very well here [in Chicago] because of the Irish connection, as well as Boston and San Francisco. Chicago is the only city other than New York that I like to get out on the streets. It feels like there's a New York vibe here; I like a pedestrian city; I like to walk around [and] not know where I am going, bump into people on the street, and Chicago has that.
I love the restaurants. The last time I was here, I had one of the best meals that I have ever had at Girl & the Goat. Gibsons Steakhouse – I always gotta stop there and get one of those steaks.
I am a die hard New York Knicks fan. I have been to a number of Chicago Bulls games just so I can root against them.
I am aware of all the great theatre and great actors that come out of here. I plan to take advantage of that next trip
Are any of your films a reflection of your family?
The films are autobiographical in that the Fitzgeralds, McMullens and Burns all come from the same place – working class Irish and Italian families in a Catholic neighborhood. As I sat down to write those scripts, I knew a lot about the characters: where they grew up; what their relationships were like with their parents; where they went to church; where they went to school; when they started drinking; where they were drinking; and everything about their lives up until the point that we meet them. So much of my own life experience was in forming these characters and their decisions that they were going to make in these stories.
Mr. Burns talked about "Brothers McMullen" during the presentation at City Winery:
We filmed Brothers McMullen on a very low budget and I knew that I couldn't pay for any locations, so I thought what location can I get for free and always have access to? My parents house…the house of the McMullen's is the house that I grew up in. There is a scene in the movie where my character Finbar and his brother Patrick are in his bedroom talking and on the wall it says "Eddie #31″ (my High School basketball number). No one seemed to question that after the movie.
Which is more challenging for you – acting or directing?
I would say directing by far. There is so much more on your plate. When you are an actor on a set in someone else's film, you are only there to focus on your scene, your lines of dialogue. You don't have to worry about any of the other actors, when to break for lunch, or how long to get to the next location. All you are doing is answering questions all day long. However, it is all that I have known since my first student film, and I would never want to surrender all of that control. For me, I am happiest when I am making one of my smaller personal films. I am thankful that I get to act for other people; I do that periodically, but the real joy for me comes from doing my own thing.
What is more rewarding – work or being a father?
You can't compare the two. Both have challenges. Where I love my job and what I do, if God forbid, it was taken away from me, I would survive. The joy I get from hanging with my kids, and I am a very [involved] dad: teaching them things; watching them grow; watching them learn; making them laugh; helping them when they cry – nothing compares to it. I did not anticipate nor gave much thought to how much I would love it. I knew I would do it because that is what you do. But, it has been such a welcome surprise and really by far the most important thing in my life.
What are you working on now?
I am writing a big script. [It is] very different from anything else I have done. In addition, I am shooting a new project starting in January called Winter, Spring, Summer and Fall. The story charts two 40-something, middle-aged underachievers. I am going to play a one-time novelist, freelance journalist, who wakes up at the age of 45 with a career that didn't work out and the right girl never entered his life, wondering how did I end up here.
The character wakes up on New Year's Day after a one night stand with an actress who just turned 40 and is in the same predicament. Her career never worked out. She has been with an older guy for 12 years, never got an engagement ring, and was traded in for a younger model. The story charts the couple over the course of a year.
I decided rather than take that script and try to shoot it in eight weeks and sell four seasons, we are going to make 12 short films over the course of the next twelve months starting in January. I will put each short film up online and hopefully engage my audience to participate not only in most immediate things but when we need a scene for February's chapter. For example, when the couple, Abby and Andy, go on date in Connecticut, who in my audience has a restaurant in Connecticut that we can shoot at. Who makes t-shirts and has a t-shirt that our characters can wear? What about a Microbrewery so we don't have to drink Budweiser?
We plan to embrace all of the DIY folks and artisenal folks out there. We will help one another, we promote your brand in our film and you give us stuff for free. When we have the twelve films done, we will piece them together, I will restructure some things and shoot additional scenes to turn it into a feature film. This will keep me sane while I am writing my next BIGGER project.
What is your next BIG project?
I don't want to give too much away. My dad was a New York City cop, and the story is a family saga set against the NYPD. Too early to know what it is exactly. I am on the phone with my dad every day asking questions like, "What would happen in this situation dad?"
What is your opinion on gun control in the U.S.?
We have a major f***ing problem in this country. We have to get these semi-automatic guns off the street. There is no reason that anyone should be able to buy assault weapons. It is absurd.
What organizations do you volunteer with these day?
We come to Chicago two or three times a year. I am involved with Tribeca Flashpoint, owned by Howard Tullman. It is a great school. Last year, I spoke at their commencement. I have also spoken at film classes over the years. Great program.
I also assist my wife with her charitable organization "Every Mother Counts." Last month we held a film screening of The Fitzgerald' Family Christmas in New York City and raised $10,000 for the organization.
Every Mother Counts is an advocacy and mobilization campaign to increase education and support for maternal-mortality reduction globally. Every Mother Counts seeks to engage new audiences to better understand the challenges and the solutions while encouraging them to take action to imporve the lives of girls and women worldwide. For the past two years, Starbucks has collaborated with Every Mother Counts and Christy Turlington Burns to produce a CD of talented and generous artists such as Dave Matthews Band, David Bowie, Seal, Patti Smith, and Coldplay to name a few (from Volume 2).
Photo by Rita Chen


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HOME Denver Broncos Gear Denver Broncos Mens Denver Broncos Mens Hats Denver Broncos Mens Hats Flex Fit (37 items) Product ID: 1133176
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The Broncos already are a great team, but it never hurts to give them some extra luck when they're inside the red zone. This Painters vintage logo flex hat by Mitchell & Ness features a vintage logo on the front and crown, as well as "Broncos" lettering printed along each side. This lightweight hat is a great way to show your buddies your team pride while indoors or outside. You never rooted for "a red zone touchdown" as much as you do now when you wear this Broncos hat.
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text: Interview with Monica Wright, Director of Audience Engagement for Search Engine Land Recently I had the chance to interview Monica Wright, the Director of Audience Engagement for Search Engine Land and Marketing Land. Recently I had the chance to interview Monica Wright, the Director of Audience Engagement for Search Engine Land and Marketing Land. Monica is a seasoned online marketer with over 15 years of media and content advertising experience, building audience and awareness utilizing look, social advertising and diagnostic SEO. She is moreover a general speaker at industry times like SMX, SMX Advanced, PubCon and Social Media Breakfast Maine. Question: What are the principal responsibilities considering the Director of Audience Engagement for Marketing Land and Search Engine Land? Answer from Monica Wright: It's a hot position – my job is to guarantee you're growing engagement with Marketing Land and Search Engine Land about site and by outdoor channels, commonly by social and email. We want the audience to read plus share the content, plus connect along with you 1 system or another. My job is to enhance which. It has merely been a month, and people would haven't enjoyed big changes yet, we're just fairly methodical inside the process. Question: What are some of the favorite SMX sessions that you've moderated over time? Answer from Monica Wright: One of my favorites had been a Google+ session from SMX Social Media December 2012 with Mark Traphagen, Adam Audette and Bob Stanke in the Minnesota Timberwolves. The presenters were fairly relaxed and knew their stuff, and it was 1 of those great panels where the flow just arises. It was fun, yet you can tell the panelists worked difficult and were truly willing. Bob moreover threw little basketballs into the audience. Everyone was just into it. Question: We come in the land of offline print media—did you ought to change anything in regards to the technique you approached content creation whenever we moved online? Answer from Monica Wright: There was normally a sense of urgency, nevertheless now standard and precision appears more immense than ever. The tools to create content now give a lot of sourcing and hearing mechanisms, which is expected to create details easier and accelerate the publishing process. But that's the condition – it's too easy to hit that "publish" switch. There's furthermore that challenge of creating content for different kinds of consumption; you need the headline that's look friendly, a different headline to tweet, a superior image to show up inside a feed, and consider how a content may show up regarding Facebook, LinkedIn, Google+ and everywhere else. Question: Do we see it's easier or harder to create content for the web reader versus the "paper people"? Answer from Monica Wright: In the spirit of transparency, I wasn't a content creator at the publishing companies I worked for – I certainly started inside circulation, which morphed into audience development. But to answer the question, to create superior content takes because much skill and talent online considering it does inside print. If anything, certain different technical abilities or understanding of social platforms allow tell superior stories online. - See more at: http://www.brickmarketing.com/ Category: Search Engine Land Tag: Search Engine Land


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Saturday, November 01, 2014
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STEUBEN COUNTY, N.Y. -- A father and a son are arrested during a drug investigation in the town of Bradford. Authorities say they found meth and a number or guns during a search of a residence on State Route 226.
As a result, they arrested Jonathan Fernandes, 35. He is charged with second degree criminal possession of a controlled substance.
Troopers say that during the search, his father, Joseph Fernandes, interfered with the investigation. He was also charged with obstructing governmental administration. Both were taken to Steuben County Jail. More charges are possible in the case.
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1 package of 10 red 12" latex balloons. Our balloons are helium quality and will last for a long time! Use for centerpieces, room decoration, or to give out to guest - either way they create a festive mood and atmosphere!