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- Sherrlene Uy
- Quezon City
- Philippines
Teacher - English and Research, Glendale School, Inc. (QC, Phil)
This conversation is closed.
What are the challenges that gifted and creative individuals face at present?
Hi everyone! I am working on a research about the gifted and creative individuals. I'd like to know what are the challenges that the gifted and creative people experience in your country. Share your thoughts please :) Thanks!
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Feb 21 2013: I like how you phrased your statement! It says it all! Thanks :)Mar 8 2013: I have learned much more independently through the internet's awesome and efficient knowledge gathering functions then I ever did in school. No college credits for that though, just intellectual satisfaction.Feb 18 2013: Gifted and creative individuals often go unrecognized because of close associations they have with introversion. Introverts are sometimes not very good at 'getting themselves out there' in order to be discovered or to profit from their own talent.
I suggest that too often, gifted individuals are subjugated by standardized education and by the workplace, such that their natural talents are never realized properly again in adulthood. A talent that has become profoundly inhibited in this way I believe can lead to mental health problems, the more that person tries to conform to someone else's 'normality' other than their own.
Feb 18 2013: Well said! Thank you very much!Feb 18 2013: "...the more that person tries to conform to someone else's 'normality' other than their own. "
You truly hit the nail on the head, Allan!
I totally agree with you!
I think it is the way they—creative individuals—yield that makes the challenges that gifted and creative individuals face at present. Sometimes not knowing what we're destroying, we just give up on our creativity!
The judges aren't others; those are us.
. .
Feb 20 2013: Allen, My inner introvert thanks you for giving her a voice ;-)Mar 3 2013: As a parent of three children who have been placed in the category of "Gifted," I have found that resources in the public school system for nurturing gifted abilities are extremely lacking; resources for students with "special needs" unfortunately in most cases do not include resources for the gifted, only for students with disabilities. I believe it is important to meet the needs of students who struggle as well as students who have the potential to excel. They each have unique needs that differ from the average student. According to the neuropsychologist who completed our testing, gifted students who are not sufficiently intellectually stimulated and nurtured to reach their potential are at the highest risk of quitting school and engaging in destructive behaviors in attempts to meet these needs. This should be of great concern to our society considering the incredible potential that is lost due to neglect. We need more thriving brilliance in our world.
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Mar 3 2013: I agree absolutely - both as a parent of a gifted daughter whose school is having trouble recognizing her needs, and also based on my own personal experience (the words "engaging in destructive behaviors in attempts to meet these needs" is close to home!).
We do need more thriving brilliance in the world - along with some of the other things that many gifted people bring, including a preoccupation with justice.
Gifted people are often indestructibly creative - but their creativity can go unrecognized because it's 'outside the box'.Feb 17 2013: Difficulty to conform and downscale to common understanding.
Feb 17 2013: I look forward to Pabitra's response before offering my own as I believe this is the most relevant to your question…
And in support of Mary's response, hitting the "reply" button for each comment sends a email message to the poster to engage...
Feb 18 2013: A gifted and creative mind sees, internalizes and reflects on things in unique ways. Unique, in the sense it is least bothered with authority but seeks authenticity of the substance in question. For example one can sense gender in colors without being influenced by prevalent memes. There is a musical software available which can create symphonies in response to chromatic inputs such that a person with musical gift but no formal training or knowledge of notations can create an orchestra just by interacting with the software for some time. The persons behind the two examples are gifted and creative.
I have seen with my modest experience that such people are either terribly weak or naturally indifferent to the social standards. Their partners, parents and families need to be extra careful in protecting them because the large part of their conscious energy is engaged with a creative process leaving least resources for socail interactions. They find it difficult to conform to the role of a colleague, partner or a friend and also to general order of the society.
The challenge for a gifted and creatively inclined person is to moderate his/her expressions to be undestandable by common folks. This is because, gifted as he/she is there is also the need of companionship, acceptance and fondness. My observation is that when they are young and just about learning the reality of making connections in life, they suffer and dubbed as either rude or nerdy or callous despite their brightness. If you sample the lives of few gifted celebrities you will be surprised to note how badly they fare in their private lives. Aging brings a wisdom, however, and they learn the trick.Feb 18 2013: Oh, that was fast! Thanks a lot! :)
Would you mind elaborating your thoughts about this issue? I am really interested how people from the other parts of the globe think about this :) thanks again ^^
Feb 18 2013: Please check my last comment in reply to Daryl Roche.
Jacob Clark
Mar 6 2013: I think the general public categorizes genius, creative or otherwise, as impotent. Money is worshiped and great ideas are only great if they are valuable. People need a realization that art and the future we make for humanity are more important than what we do for ourselves in the here and now. Beautiful minds face short sight; the inability to look at what one is doing as good on a larger scale (a more real scale) than an economic one.
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Mar 7 2013: This is why people who are gifted and talented need to be provided with support to reach their best selves, both in terms of mentoring and economics. Many gifts and talents don't fit in convenient "job boxes", and trying to stuff someone into such a box results not only in failure for the organization, but also disheartening of the individual. This can and will crush creativity in many people.Mar 7 2013: so you say "People need a realization that art and the future we make for humanity are more important than what we do for ourselves in the here and now."
I say that you have just stated a bunch of nonsense.
1st if art is so important, pay all the artist and not just a few "known/famous" ones, not only pay them but pay them more than what you pay an engineer!
now the future of humanity is not in opposition of what we do for ourselves in the here and now, because we are humans and we need to take care of the here and now to be able to have a future.
so unless the person is very rich, money is always needed, or are you going to pay the bills of all those artists? are you going to pay those surgeries and other hospital bills the people may need? are you going to pay their debts?
I don't think so
a pipe dream that renders every one poor and in misery
Mar 7 2013: I think you and I are what some would call prime examples of a 'realist' versus an 'idealist'. I world where art is valued hire than economic status is a pipe dream?
You've taken my comment to it's most extreme interpretation. My main point is that 'artists' are viewed as non-conributers. Amanda Palmer talks openly about being degraded as a street performer, being yelled at regularly to 'get a real job'.
I think Sugata Mitra's discussion gives good examples of how encouragement is key; not just for children's education but growth as individuals.
Even adults.
Futurism is another matter entirely. My point is people have a 'whats in it for me' mentality when they make life choices. Such as the importance of getting their children involved in an after school art program versus paying for monthly cable. We need to invest in ourselves versus creature comforts.
I see how I may have been mis-interpreted; I should be more clear.
time bean
Mar 8 2013: AND, if there is an invention that makes its way to market, the inventor is made a celebrity, rich w/ endorsements and becomes highly visible all very quickly. That can be destructive to ones internal organization too, highly restrictive success rate which denies public access to progress and ppl believe they rose from nothing bec THEY never heard of them. Reading backgrounds of pop stars, for eg: most have been performing for many many years, supported in their talents and educated "fame style" schools for performing arts, not just lucky.
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Also misleading to general public who think then that success is a result of pure chance so don't try for themselves to create what they love
Grace Greene
Feb 27 2013: This thread has been haunting me, so I've been giving it deep thought.
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It seems to me, now that I have read so many comments from so many like-minded people, that all the shame I carried with me for so long, was spent on naught.
SHAME - forcibly instilled in the young - shame for being different - shame for being "wrong" when they "know" that they aren't (and no one says why) - shame for wanting more than I was allowed (by public education) - shame for difficulty staying awake in the face of incredible boredom - shame for having unconventional ideas - shame for being ME. Shame, I think, is the greatest problem I faced. It was debilitating, and so unnecessary!
I hope that you use your position to help those who are still trapped in hell. Thanks for the question. I am better for it.
Matt Nelder
Feb 27 2013: Well said, I feel you there. Creative, novel thoughts or ideas are often mocked or put down. People who do this make the creative individual feel self conscious or uncomfortable with sharing, let alone acting on their ideas. It`s a shameMar 1 2013: Gifted & Creative individuals are naturally driven by a passion.
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They forget that their gifted talents and skills have to be useful to people around them. If their talents are not useful to people around them then Gifted people suffer.
Gifted people find it very difficult to go the extra mile to ensure their talents are useful to people around them.
People around gifted people could help Gifted people to tap their talents for benefit of society.
Then their would be Win-Win situation.
Crystal B
Feb 19 2013: I cannot speak for those who are gifted, because the definition of gifted to me is someone that is a high scholar in which I am not.
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However, I am a creative individual and I am currently fighting the challenge against my family which is success within happiness. I come from an Asian background and at first I didn't think my family was that stereotypical until I started standing up for my own happiness of pursuing something I enjoy. By stereotypical I mean they expect me to follow the route of medicine or business. I received comments such as "It's time to be a grown up", "You'll never make any money doing that", "That's not a real career", "Passion doesn't take you anywhere", "It's too late" and "It's stupid to spend money on stuff like that".
Another challenge I run into is criticism. Instead of beneficial criticism, I'm often fed opinions that I should change my art work to something that's more "appropriate". To me that's difficult because that would mean I need to change my emotions, my mentality and literately myself - it's not that easy. I had the harshest criticism so far from one of my parents who told me to stop creating "funny stuff" and to throw away some of my art work.
Which leads to my next challenge.. Myself. I really had to sit down and question everything constantly. Should I be shaping myself according to what everyone says is right? Or should I become my own unique individual and express who I really am? Is it disrespectful of me not to listen to my elders? Is it disrespectful of them to not accept me and support me?
I had to figure out who I really was and what I was all about and not be my past but be the future I want. Gaining the confidence to put my foot down against those around who disagreed with my decisions, my creativity, my expression, and overall myself. Finding my own voice.It literately feels like you're fighting a lonesome battle against an entire army but it's become such a euphoric feeling I must say!
Hope that helped!
Feb 20 2013: Hi Crystal, I love your post. You are very courageous. Most people are tuned into making money. Making money is actually creative too. Not everyone is creative at making money. Don't let others define for you what success is. The artist is someone who takes in their environment and lets it resonate with their genetics and their life experience and creates something original. Passion can propel you for many years. It's a good thing to have. The artist is sensitive. The artist is the 'canary in a coal mine', overly sensitive compared to others. That's how they resonate with their world. Art is a mirrored reflection of the world. It is like anthropology in the sense that the rest of the world can't see what you can see until you reveal it to them in your own way. It is a lonely battle and you are courageous. Make it work. Education will give you permission to do what you want to do and more. A future father in law once asked me . . ."When do you think you will become successful?" I replied "I feel successful right now!" He said "Touche".
Raam Anand
Feb 18 2013: Great question Sherrlene Uy,
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Gifted and Creative individuals have special faculties, either born with or developed over time. The biggest challenge that I have seen such people face are...
#1. Inability to EXPRESS their creativity so that other people understand
#2. Lack of knowledge that their special skills are indeed special (they think everybody has it!!)
#3. Being in the wrong neighborhood (means... no recognition)
I wonder what others would be saying.
Also, let me know what you think... and "Like" this answer if you do.
Gail .
Feb 18 2013: I STILL think that everyone has it - but that most are not self-aware enough to know it.Feb 21 2013: I totally agree! This is very evident nowadays. Thank you for your response.
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Gail .
Feb 18 2013: I would like to try to simplify & condense my previous response:
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Biggest challenges for the gifted:
Getting through compulsory education without coming to the conclusion that they are stupid, wrong, inadequate, inferior, and incapable because they perceive what most do not.
How nice it would be if adults did not generally think that children are empty sponges waiting to be filled with knowledge. Had my parents and educators believed me with respect to some of the most essential things I had to say, how different my life would have been. For me, compulsory education was formalized, legalized abuse.
Abuse is not just physical. The only difference between physical abuse and mental/emotional abuse is the choice of weapons.
Feb 21 2013: I couldn't agree more
Gerri K
Feb 24 2013: Whoa! Amazing words! They are likely EXACTLY how my 13 yr old gifted daughter feels! This is so very true for her existence, and my husband and I struggle as parents to cope with her needs. I finally railed at the school's administration for not listening to her and her needs.
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I have found myself time and again telling her to "wait". Wait until next year - It'll be better, etc. How can I reasonably ask a child of 10 or 11 to wait? On one hand that's what she needs to do, on the other hand it is total torture.
Our educational system does not adequately address these childrens' needs and it is far too bad because they are future of of our world.
greg dahlen
Feb 17 2013: I think people can be jealous of gifted and creative individuals. They don't realize that gifted, creative people often are working harder than everybody else, but perhaps make it look easy.
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People may be suspicious of gifted, creative individuals, as gifted, creative individuals are often proposing new ideas and new ways of living that are different from the mainstream.
Feb 18 2013: Oh, I love the term! "Suspicious"!
It's like all their actions are being screened every now and then huh? Right right... I never thought of that! Thanks! :)
Jotted it down! :) Salamat! (Thank you!)
Craig Weiler
Mar 9 2013: I think that there are two topics here. Gifted individuals and creative individuals. Not all gifted individuals are creative and not all creative people are gifted.
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Creative people, in fact, typically don't do all that great on intelligence tests because those tests are heavily weighted towards analytical thinking.
The best book I have ever seen on creative people is The HISS of the ASP by David Ritchey. ASP stands for anomalously sensitive people.
Creativity is just another trait that goes along with a whole constellation of personality traits associated highly sensitive people.
Fritzie -
Mar 9 2013: True indeed. While there is some dispute about it, it is probably most valid to think of the two as overlapping categories, with some people fitting in both and some in only one.Mar 13 2013: That is true :) They are 2 different ideas
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david madsen
Mar 4 2013: i have an extremely difficult time not only expressing myself, finding others even remotely interested in that which consumes me, but rare are any hopes of being understood.. as such, a lonely reclusivity with only my mind's eyes is unfortunately my world. it is not a gift - it is a doomed life of complete misunderstanding and marginilization.
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John Gianino
Mar 4 2013: Start a topic you like, put details about your interests in your profile, and see who responds. If your topic is not eye catching or its to gaudy, work on presenting your information a little better. When you see who responds, check their demographics. Maybe there's a concentration of like mined individuals in a particular network or location.
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John Gianino
Mar 4 2013: How do you know if you are gifted or creative?
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Floyd Piedad
Mar 4 2013: I think the challenge is more long-term: acceptance in society and in the business world in particular. Will businesses give the right kind of work (and credit) to gifted individuals, and pay them for their talents and not for their ability to conform to the workplace? How do you develop the unique talent of the gifted individual to its fullest extent, and then have the person use that in the work environment - especially in developing countries such as the Philippines.Mar 3 2013: I should have mentioned that several of my children were identified as gifted in kindergarten. Unfortunately for them, too meant teachers were unwilling/unable to differentiate their curricula and insisted that all steps be completed in the correct sequence before moving on. Most of my children were reading fluently when they began school but were still required to digest every primer and pre primer in existence. My experience in classes with gifted students is that most gifted students will challenge themselves and find work to keep them busy. Truly gifted students often find solace and safety in books.Mar 3 2013: Throughout the comments that I have read, I have seen no mention of Gardiner's theory of Multiple Intelligences. My many years as an elementary educator have convinced me of its validity. Every teacher has encountered students who struggle academically but are brilliant leaders, musicians, artists, athletes, etc. The individual who is gifted/talented in every aspect of learning is a true anomaly. Unfortunately, schools generally focus on cognitive/academic skills as those by which a student is defined. For this reason, it is critical that education be of a classical nature so that any child has an opportunity to shine in her/his area of strength. Perhaps when this is done all gifts will be seen as just that...gifts. Also a student never exposed to art may not realize their talent. The same principle applies to all areas but seems to be easily ignored in the Arts. As for engaging students, I have found that the use of Dramatic Arts ( not theatre) is a "way in" for almost every student for it helps to put the question/problem in a context that allows safe and creative exploration. When I began using Dramatic Arts as a teaching method, it was a watershed moment for me. I had always had the ability to intuit and identify individuals who were gifted but I became even more effective as a teacher and was able to witness creative growth in many who seemed reluctant to take chances previously.
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James Todd
Mar 3 2013: I am from Canada, identified as 'gifted' in Grade 4, and I have identified with that gift all my life. Although that giftedness showed as a talent for schoolwork, and is usually interpreted as analytical work, I uncovered my own creativity in stages. So first, it must be clear that in a post-industrial, neo-information economy, creativity is given secondary status to giftedness.
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Second, and especially when a person has the gifts of both logical and non-linear thinking, we are deluged with options. Almost any traditional discipline, from anthropology to zoology, from medicine to management science, are available to us. How does one decide? We are not taught how, and most people project onto us their own image of achievement, and do not or cannot help us identify our own. It may appear to be lovely and charming to have so many options: in reality it is horrific. So many open doors, and no means to select.
I have had broad experience: architecture, IT, advertising, business strategy, animal genetics, corporate finance, IPOs, privatization, landscape design, political economy, community economic development, diagnostic imaging. Frankly, I suspect that many people read my resume and think I am lying, so I twist it to artfully leave out large swaths to be acceptable. I am tired of the chameleon life. I have been part of innovations in almost every one of the fields listed. But do not be fooled - organizations say they want creativity and innovation, but they are for the most part unable to tolerate us.
I have learned, later in life now, that one must choose. Variety may be interesting, but it can only offer limited success, and that the real joy comes from mastery, which requires dedication. If I knew then what I know now, I would allow myself to have chosen anything, and would tell myself to trust that the choice is not a loss or a limit, but a passage to freedom within it. Our world values focus, not adaptability, repetition not innovation, in spite of what you hear.
Mar 3 2013: Well said . We are intolerable I suppose.. As for myself I have already changed the world somewhat developing software which Kodak has used since I was 19 when I developed this digital innovation for the corporate giant .. 1996 - 2004 were great years although I should have aimed higher. The systems replace Polaroid in malls at Santa venues and theme parks coasters but I feel that's somewhat insignificant as to how or in what way I'd like to help the world and its people .. I know now its tools they need in real world scenarios work play education law government or to earn money since millions sit home after have great careers with corporate giants like GM. These people need help more importantly their children for future economic stability. To me the visions are simplistic yet most can not see .. Which is probably why Mark Z needs to see Instagram or xplatform before he makes his choice and that's fine I can't even spell algorithm but I know what it can do and how and whee to apply it .. This creativity is always with us from early sages that's where order is needed and a standard to be set for the recording or creating of such ideas or innovative solutions. Everyone has their place on a team this position however in bench or Allstar no I between I have weathered both now benched watching Kodak as they have no idea and Facebook with what they can do for people in many walks of life as well as many others I feel I am doing the world and its people am injustice by not voicing that I know what the people need want and how Facebook Google the web the cloud mobile advertising etc can do easily to provide or give back to help and obviously help their bottom line ..
But whom do I tell now Steve Jobs would have listened for I feel I have the same type vision although I can improve the iPhone features tremendously ... Maybe my mentor is by my side knowing I have true goals to help change and simplify not scams n shame to rape people of their hard earned dollar ..imj2013Mar 4 2013: I recall that, as a grade school student, I began to realize that turning in my test paper 10" before the next kid resulted in resentment of other kids, an invitation to be bullied, no playmates at recess, demands w/o reward from parents expecting perfection as a base line of all performance (can't draw, awkward physically, poor handwriting) accusations of plagiarism for original work, talking too much and generally irritating teachers with questions and needs for alternative activities while waiting for others to finish (beyond, "ok, you can choose a book,") from the 5 or 6 on a back table, and parade my differentness throughout the entire classroom.
I recall an example from a bright boy's contribution: we'd been studying multiplication memorization from 2 to 3 etc. When we got to 10, he raised his hand and said, "Or, you can just move the decimal point one number to the right."
Tcher: "That is not what we are learning right now"! !Mar 7 2013: I have had similar problems...when asked "What will you be when you grow up?" I had no answer. The options available overwhelmed me, and I really didn't have any strong guidance. I drifted through school, and I have not been very successful, by many standards (eg. career, relationships, etc.) I have often been angry, and occasionally grateful, to my parents for insisting I stay in public education--angry because it was a great waste of time for me, grateful because it gave me at least a minimum level of social skills.
Additionally, my own abilities have worked against me in the sense that I have been burdened with the idea of my own intelligence. It is very hard when you know you are smart to accept failure. My lack of success has constantly been a boondoggle, hanging over my shoulder. I have always had the feeling that I am capable of so much more than what I have, yet what could that ephemeral thing be? I am capable of almost anything, and so I don't know where to turn to do something. Most of my life has been defined by what I know I can't do, narrowing the field, when what I so dearly want is some help figuring what I can do.
And knowing that I am highly capable in potential, I can be paralyzed by the fear of defeat, or the overwhelming view of knowing all that would be required to achieve a goal. Sometimes, someone far less "talented and gifted" than I can accomplish something that I cannot, simply because they do not see the great wave of obstacles standing before them. Taking things one step at a time, without consideration for these factors, is very difficult for me.
I am rarely satisfied, craving perfection and never achieving it. It is difficult, even, to find good conversation at times. So I post in places like this, or compile other peoples works. I long to be creative, yet I am not able to exercise creativity because I have suffered under the smothering effects of terror of failure for so long. Talking to you now is me trying to escape this terror.
Mar 7 2013: Oh Marla (James here...) I hear you. I know that anger and that terror, too.
My way out of that morass has been first, to rely on Julia Cameron's "The Artist's Way"... get the book, read it and work through the questions, week by week. It does not demand production, only that you care for yourself. It is the only way I have ever found to uncover our creative treasures. It is often a solitary path we tread, but we must walk it.
Second, pick something to do nearby ("bloom where you are planted"). Third, and I learned this the slow painful way, just pick something, anything. At first, it does. not. matter. (You cannot turn a motionless ship... pick any course, and work with the wind.) You will learn to sail. Later you will master it. And the real joy juice comes from knowing inside that you did it, not any external measures by the world. It is that internal joy juice that fuels the next step.
Finally, read the book by Brene Brown The Gifts of Imperfection (and revisit her TEDtalks). We need to be vulnerable to let the world in and let our talents out, and Brene has written a wise book about the hurt we feel and how we can honor ourselves.
I am sure that you, like many of the voices here, have profound intuitive powers. Lean on them now to choose one of these pieces of nourishment.
Mar 8 2013: Thanks for your quick response James. I am trying hard to do some of the things you have suggested. I really appreciate the resource suggestions! I will keep on working on this.
MarlaMar 3 2013: The challenge is to focus and express creative energy and not let it overwhelm you. Creative thoughts simmer down deep and then weave their way to the surface. If they cannot find an outlet, they erupt. They destroy. They cause illness. They poison relationships. They feel almost evil, yet they are our life blood.
Mar 4 2013: YES! They become "stressors!"
Scott Bell
Mar 3 2013: The biggest challenge is that most creative endeavors are tied to the need to make Money from that endeavor. It constrains the diameter of the creative pipeline. Not good or bad.....it just IS...
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Sandy Chase
Mar 3 2013: Funding is the easy answer, but the full reason is often not articulated. When we start out as artists, especially independent artists (rather than creative professionals working at a job) we are often not good enough to make money at what we love to do. At this point, we try and try and then give up. As Ira Glass calls it, it's the GAP between our taste and our skills. It takes years to get good at our craft. Most people give up when they get discouraged that their work isn't world-class or at least remunerative. Finding ways to bridge that gap is essential: to get encouragement and support and venues and funding while we get better at crafting and sharing our vision, of becoming successful artists.
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Mar 8 2013: This gap used to be filled in the traditional arts by a combination of the apprenticeship/journeyman systems from guilds and the patronage of the Renaissance. We could really use something like these systems in the modern age...hopefully without the flaws that these systems had, which led to their ultimate end.
JS Cardinal
Feb 27 2013: Creation is a process that starts with inspiration and is followed by action. To create something, beyond the vision, there's all the work required to bring the idea to life. That part is not so creative anymore, it's mostly just work. I think that's a challenge for the most creative minds, to be able to focus on the gruntwork and the uninteresting details as they see a project to completion.
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To lead a productive life, a creative individual must find an efficient balance between dreams and reality.
Deb Lawley
Feb 27 2013: A major challenge to the gifted and creative in the United States is the culture of bullying. Bullies are threatened by these individuals and feel free therefore to threaten, hurt, demean, and undermine them. In school, bullying is looked at as a right of passage. The media encourages this behavior to get ratings. In the workplace coworkers and bosses participate in this behavior because it is rewarded from above. Today's capitalists promote "innovation" rather than "invention" - i.e. tweaking someone else's work, rather than creating anything new, because it is a quick profit rather than long term costly research. Politicians play to the lowest common denominator, dumb themselves down, and are mean-spirited to get elected. So when a gifted, creative individual comes along they don't fit into the crowd and they make those who profit from mediocrity nervous. The sad thing is, that gifted creative individuals who successfully buck this trend, eventually give in and become bullies themselves.Feb 24 2013: Thanks for your feedback Sherrlene,
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This has not been a struggle but a journey of discovery. As a dyslexic (not profound) I was always on the back foot academically yet seemed to understand and grasp the core values and mechanisms quicker than others.
I had a natural creative ability and spirit that has guided my path all my life. The biggest hurdle was not being creative, but finding those who understood creativity in itself.
I feel that the greatest issue is one of frustration in getting people to understand that another world exists on the other side of their mind.
We are taught to see everything in black & white and if the idea falls beyond this we are asked to question it till it is proven or debunked.
I have come to the point where I just do.... and wait for the truth of the matter to reveal itself through the actions of those involved.
And how did I get through, by simply refusing to be anything other than who I am. This has not been the best path as you can imagine, but despite the issues this has 'created" in my life I would not have it any other way.
Creativity is a state of mind, that when embraced "like a drug" will send you on journeys without end, sights beyond imagination and experiences that will leave you breathless.
The real challenge is find others brave enough to come with you.
Sherrlene Uy
Feb 25 2013: Hey Michael you are amazing! :) I am particularly happy that you're able to overcome your dyslexia and made yourself aware of it and the things you can do to improve yourself^^ NICE!
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I agree with you that there are people who frown because others do not see the same light as they do. It is like THE ONLY CORRECT ANSWER IS THEIR EXPECTED ANSWER (which is not possible).
In the school where I am teaching, it is (almost) forbidden to tag a student's answer as WRONG because he might be right in his own respect.
EXPECTATIONS kill the creative minds of people, would you agree? We tend to put these people in cans of sardines, pack them and declare that they are good stuffs because they're controlled. The norms in our society now dictates what's "normal" and what's not. So when you're "different" it always goes to the negative perspective.
Here's a hug >:D< Thank you Michael for sharingFeb 27 2013: Michael: Most excellent post!Feb 21 2013: As a creative, and one who has to work within the paradigm of business, I see not the creative as the issue, but those who have to deal with the creative.
Most of the business leaders I deal with are left brain thinkers, not to say they themselves don't possess creativity in some form, but more they can't calculate it in an academic way. I have experienced this response to ideas and creative thinking most of my life and now, with bitter sweet resolve, except and work with it.
Being a creative has always been a lonely place on this planet, it is what makes us special. Embrace this loneliness and let your mind roam free of the clutter.
The greatest challenge "in a nutshell" is to not care about the challenge but get on with feeding the gift with out fear.
Feb 23 2013: Hi Michael! thank you for sharing this! : I truly appreciate your thoughts. I was just wondering, how did you manage to get through it all? I hope you can share some of your struggles as a creative individual :) Thanks
adesh saxena
Feb 18 2013: Though India is a very good country as far as religeous freedom is concerned. But gifted individuals may face opposition from pockets of religeous fundametalists.Main challenge they face is that they have to be politically correct.
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Feb 18 2013: Hi Adesh! I hope you wouldn't mind if I ask more information about the status of gifted and talented individuals in your country. I'd love to hear more from you :) Thank you!
Atul Jadhav
Feb 17 2013: 1. Acceptance of individual differences by family, friends, community, country and the world. People differ on many traits.No two persons are exactly alike. Normally, the less gifted ones don't accept the higher gifted-ness quotient of the more gifted ones. They tend to disparage or downplay the unique ability of such naturally gifted individuals.
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2. Defiance to Societal norms creates new set of problems.
3. Conformity
4. Lack of adequate Exposure and recognition to such individuals
5. Self-pacing while learning course materials is not necessarily an available option.
6. Social isolation. Loneliness.
7. Boredom due to monotonous nature of work.
8. Labels that not so creative individuals assign to them.
9. Lack of career counselling facilities.
10. Lack of Mentors.
11. Lack of Motivation.
12. Substance abuse
Feb 18 2013: So would you guys agree that while most people think that technology help creative enhancement, it can also kill the talent? How is that so? Thanks to you both :)
Gail .
Feb 18 2013: I would GUESS that is kills talent because it works as a sedative - just like any other mind-numbing drug. Humans are a social animal. The gifted live in part in another world. Technology can in some small way, bridge the divide. But I'm not so sure that the gifted that I speak of get caught up in the addiction to hormonal responses that technology invokes.
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How can one study this if those who study don't know what a truly gifted child's world looks like because they equate "gifted" with too much emphasis on "learning style"?
Gerri K
Feb 24 2013: You've listed them so clearly. I would add DEPRESSION. I have a nearly 13 yr old gifted daughter and this becomes the consequence of all that Atul outlined above. My daughter struggles with trying to control her anger at the "stupidity" of everyone else around her because it takes so long for them to "get it" when it takes her only a few seconds. She is clustered with other TAG students, which helps, but doesn't alleviate the mind-numbing boredom she feels when classes are paced for the common student. I'd like to place her in another school, but between cost and the fact that it would affect her friendships I haven't.
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Gail .
Feb 25 2013: I feel for your daughter. There MIGHT be an option. I had a friend whose daughter had the same complains as yours (and as I did - though I didn't rail at the stupidity of others. I railed at the boredom and disrespect shown me by teachers in oh-so-many subtle ways.)
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When my friend's daughter was ready to quit (in her junior year), her parents were alarmed. Luckily, the father was well placed as the director of a museum, so he walked in circles that my parents didn't walk in. He heard about how Exeter Academy (New Hampshire) might be the solution for her.
Exeter Academy is where movers and shakers from around the world send their children. These are very wealthy people who endow the school with significant funds. These funds are used (in part) for scholarships for those special ones who would otherwise be unable to find a suitable education. My friend's daughter received a partial scholarship - based on the parent's income (which was not "poor").
At Exeter, there are no rows of desks. There are circular tables. Class size is 8-10. Students aren't given mathematical formulas to memorize. They are given word problems and must then find a formula that leads them to the answer. They then present their findings to the other students.
Imagine what it would feel like to suddenly be told that "you are smart enough to do this"! Imagine realizing how much more you can do that anyone ever thought you could do. Imagine learning the leadership skills that such practices engage. Imagine coming away from school with self-esteem still in tact. What an advantage!
I would love to engage in the education of students. I know how good I am at it when children are around. Unfortunately, I gave up on school when I graduated H.S. I just couldn't endure the torture any more. I began educating myself - and WHOAH!!!! How much fun that was! How much better educated I am than most of the world: A very broad-based education I wish for everyone.
Isolation remainsMar 11 2013: Central I think is communication, looking at he notebooks of leonardo davinci as an example; I have three but importantly 'without' drawings & illustrations. This to me became obvious and very disruptive so having a clear comprehension of his expressions without this form of leonardo's communications made them much less understandable, okay to me. lol Additional point, I know a brilliant son of a ivy physicist who is pigeonholed as attention disordered who is very much thwarted by this diagnosis emotionally I feel it stymies his pursuit big time.
Rhona Pavis
Mar 10 2013: Staying alive. Creative people need to receive money income that reflects the value of their work over time. The way things are now, first they need to die to receive sufficient respect and the money value of their creative output goes to the marketing sector, rather than the creators of the valuable goods and services.
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Sherrlene Uy
Mar 13 2013: I think this is a problem for everyone. Sad isnt it? thanks Rhona
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Mar 14 2013: You are welcome, Sherriene. Let's change our world to continuously elevate the joy level of all humanity.
Xiao Zhi
Mar 10 2013: Earning a living.
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The internet has raised the expectation of the public that creative works are free and this has made a difficult and unpredictable working environment even more so.
Creative workers have always had to be self-reliant and resourceful but now I would say they have to consider whether creative endeavors are a viable way to earn a living to support a family or whether we should approach our work as a hobby (i.e., not depend on earning much).Mar 5 2013: early challenge is to recognize their own gifts or creative spirits. adequate confidence and self esteem challenges follow as one tries to exercise the nascent potential. promptly, challenges of fortitude emerge in order to look beyond or overcome those threatened by one's boldness. upon adolescence, the difficult pressures to conform or quiet the inner energy are almost as challenging as the vastness of web resources that invite one to reach toward too many diluting opportunities. with maturity arises the challenge of humility, as there are always others with powers to complement, supplement or simply foment. if recognized as a leader, the gifted or creative than must learn to inspire and unleash more than teach. And as you've done, to maintain the grace to be thankful for what each of us has to offer others.
Erin Palmer
Mar 5 2013: I work as an American English teacher in Thailand. Every day I see gifted students and gravitate toward them because I remember being one myself in both family and school environments that had no idea what to do with me. I feel the biggest challenge faced by creative young people is ignorance on the part of those who are their parents and educators. Not only ignorance, but also the resistance and fear of change that is part of the human condition. Rather than trying to fit everyone into a box because that box is what is known, we must be willing to take the risks necessary to enlarge the box and to finally release the box altogether. Doing this means working in the dark in a certain way. Making a choice, taking one step, seeing what happens and using that result to inform the next choice. Ignorance is not a sin, it's just not knowing…yet. Fear is part of the process, part of facing what is yet not known. Creativity is not linear; for some it's a spiral, for others possibly circular or something completely random. We all must learn -- and I think this is already in motion -- to welcome change, to embrace and support our children who don't "fit the mold"…indeed to allow that mold to melt away and free not just them but ourselves as well.Mar 4 2013: I think this conversation is the very point, some believe creatives are "lonely" people walking the planet in misery, others asking "what is" and "is not" defined as creative, and still others talking about things that have no relevance to the subject of creativity and its challenges.
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I define myself as highly creative, possible gifted? The reality here is everyone has an opinion on being creative, creativity and the very act itself.
The truth is we are all gifted in one way or another, the trick is to understand your own gift. We are all creative in one way or another, the trick is to understand your own creativity.
I have seen people who have never shared their creative spirit, yet when by themselves, exhibit a natural talent that makes your jaw drop, from wood working to dancing, from writing to painting, from physical abilities to emotional intelligence.
Who cares what it is...
The real challenge is not what other people think about the subject, it's what "you" think about the subject.
Break free from what others believe and start believing in the gift you all have, your minds ability to conceive an idea, imagine a solution and create the result regardless of how good or bad others "think" it to be.
time bean
Mar 4 2013: Others seem to feel more envious and/or competitive with ppl who seem to have high general intelligence (information, degrees, curiosity, interests, etc) more than with different talents such as artistic, scientific, social, physical etc. Frequently, hi IQ ppl find their statements rejected, questioned, suspect and receive reactions such as rolling of the eyes, condescension and contempt.
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Over time, there may be permanent isolation from or rejection by others, even family members, that think they think "they're so smart." Conversation becomes a frightening prospect and finding friends a difficult process on account of these reactions as well as the smallish number of ppl with whom they can find acceptance and enjoy discussion.
e.g: Statement X made to bright person; "Wow! I didn't know that! I wonder if it relates to _______
" average person: "Oh, yeah? And where'd you get THAT idea?
It's basic prejudice and stigma and the emotional wounds are huge not to mention that if these ppl must hide their talent, society as a whole is deprived of their possible contributions.
Gifted children should receive the benefits of Special Education funding, preserving/enhancing their abilities and participation.Mar 4 2013: I believe many challenges:
1. The challenge of making things happen
2. Lack of mentors to evolve, since they tend to be lonely
3. Envy from people that are notMar 3 2013: For me the word 'creative' is key here - probably because I consider myself to be a member of the 'creative arts'! With that in mind, the main challenge is simply the lack of funding in the UK - especially in terms of government bodies. Large, already-established organisations receive funding, but can only employ so many. Individuals may have to work in jobs not related to what they want to do in order to make enough money just to survive, let alone fund their own ideas, and the longer that they have to continue in that job, the further away from their aspirations they get. I'm speaking from the experience of friends and from the point of view of the theatre. Of course, those who are determined to succeed WILL, no matter what challenges or obstacles are thrown into their path - but it's not easy, and certainly not encouraging!
amacker b
Mar 3 2013: Based on the circumstances of a large majority of my friends — many of them fellow artists —I'd say the first thing that jumps to mind is their lack of gainful "employment" — making enough money to not only survive day to day but to pay for medical care and support themselves in their elder years.Mar 3 2013: Well, if it's not time, it's money. If it's not money, it's time. I've been unemployed with plenty of tme to create and work, but no money to do it with. I now have three jobs just to keep going, and no time - and seldom energy - to do anything really creative. Off the op of my head, I'm thinking creativity spaces using empty shops, etc.tMar 3 2013: Excessive support and attention.
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Creativity needs unconditional passion, not money and fame. I don't believe that exaggerated rewarding helps in nurturing one's creativity.
T.J. LeDoux
Mar 2 2013: When you have a vision the hardest part is funding it to reality! No matter what you have created in the past you can only do so much to bring it to the level you want it to be. Our site www.profylestudios.com shows what we are capable of as a collection of artists and gifted individuals in different fields. Taking things to the next level of success is a hard mountain to climb.
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Mar 3 2013: Awesome !!
I will check the site out & pass it around to many .
Thank you!! :)
email@example.com 4 2013: Woah that is incredible!!! So that's how they build the alien-cyborg from Predator. Amazing what the imagination put into action can do. Thanks for sharing!
Josh Edwards
Feb 28 2013: I think one problem we run into with this question is figuring out how you define "gifted". I know there are many different ways to define it and the traditional I.Q. method is often used, but it can sometimes leave people out. I'm curious as to how others define who is and who isn't "gifted".
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Tobias L
Feb 28 2013: They are sometimes ostracized as they are separated from the main student body. This causes both envy and a formation of a mentality of "them vs us", which does not aid in social integration.
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Matt Nelder
Feb 27 2013: I would say that the biggest challenges presented to gifted, intelligent individuals are less gifted, unintelligent people who possess and control a substantial amount of the cash flow on a national or even provincial/state level (whichever works for your country)
- +2
Calvin Davis
Feb 26 2013: The difference in being creative and being a capatalist seems to be the largest creative barrier. I contend that those with true creative ability often disregard the value of any monetary system; which in the end results in either lack of funds to further their creative notion or allowing their creative results to be taken advantage of. The vast majority of humanity would rather monetize creativity rather than marvel at its beauty.Feb 25 2013: Einstein once said "Inspiration is the impact of a fact on a prepared mind"
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I believe this to my core.
Knowledge is the key to any creative mind, it's not about knowing it to be right or wrong, it's just the knowing.
I have been a visual learner and have had the ability to take it all in and remember 90%. It has been this fountain head of information that has enabled me to do what I do.
When faced with the task at hand - creative or cultural (I work in Strategic Brand Marketing) my mind dives in to the store room of knowledge and seemingly connects the dots as if by magic- thats what I would class as creativity. The subconscious act based on the immediate need.
I believe it is vital that all creatives learn to marshall their minds and foster the ability to focus on the subject.
In my early days I was easily drawn of task by wayward lines of thinking. Discipline is the key to great creative insight.
To nurture a creative mind, give them the facts and then let them create a new truth for the pieces that work for them, just ask Einstein if it worked for him.
Feb 27 2013: (That's a Louis Pasteur quote, not Einstein.)Feb 24 2013: Personally I think that the problem is the attitude to education. I am still in high school but about to leave for college and I have noticed that many people disregard you scores in any subject but maths, English and science. Then even for English many think that those gifted in English simply are not as intelligent as those gifted in maths and science. Also when you see people doing construction whilst your sat in Maths and people belittle them for not possessing the skills required for academic subjects. Personally I'd like to see some of the people in my class redo a pavement. Some people may be gifted at academic subjects, or maybe they are better with their hands. Some people might be incredibly creative and brilliant at subjects like art, others not so much. It doesn't mean that one or the other is less valuable or makes one person better than another. Ignorance is one of the main challenges a prodigy could go unnoticed due to the simple fact that people do not care. Innovation is not valued, the lack of stress put upon certain subjects and the misleading stereotypes attached to certain skills could prevent a person going from mediocre in the 'preferred' subjects to astonishing in places deemed unnecessary and unworthy of time. It may seem cliché but I do think that they are tortured genius' unappreciated and overlooked; forced into mediocrity. This I personally believe is the biggest issue concerning gifted induviduals
Feb 25 2013: Hi Meghan! I can see how eloquent you are in language :) I totally agree with you that while you are pushing yourself hard to master the gift that you have, some may look down on you for not being as good in other subjects. I got the same experience as yours when I was a student. While I was doing my own thing in journalism, my grade in Math and Chemistry are basically just winding... And no matter how good I am in writing, it seems like it isn't enough for others.
Bob Stiglitz
Feb 21 2013: The hardest challenges are communicating new knowledge to others, especially when that knowledge is discovered 'outside' the system of the traditional academy.
- +2
Good luck working on new knowledge if you don't have a traditional degree or the stamp of social approval a degree confers. There's plenty of obvious solutions to problems but communicating them over human biases and illusions of understanding is a lost cause much of the time. Take the comment by Max Planck
"A new scientific truth does not triumph by convincing its opponents and making them see the light, but rather because its opponents eventually die, and a new generation grows up that is familiar with it."--Max Planck
Feb 23 2013: Hey Bob thanks! :) Yes I do agree on this one, too. Communication is also essential. Worse, people tend to take in only those that will benefit them. If it's all for work, most wouldn't mind taking up the responsibility.. We need to shake the society up. thanks againFeb 21 2013: I think it is the acceptance of our individuality and over commercialization.
Feb 23 2013: Hi Alex! Could you please expound the part about commercialization? It intrigues me :)
Jim Smithson
Feb 20 2013: The biggest problem that gifted and creative people face is that they are sometimes identified early and then educated by a system run by people who want to train them like show horses or exploit them. The present educational system is geared to create orderly classrooms and low but steady progress. Education does not create or develop genius.
- +2
Feb 23 2013: Any proposals on how to solve this? Thanks
Feb 27 2013: My proposal is to take education out of the hands of commerce. Let it be a stand-alone adventure.
Right now, education exists to turn individuals into commodities - commodities who can get jobs that allow them to consume, thus funneling profits back into the hands that have the most to gain from our current educational paradigms that intentionally kill innate genius (which incudes creativity) that all are born with.
Next, get those teachers who love teaching away from students who love learning. Education should be about the student, not the teacher.
Also, get rid of the power hierarchy. I knew in 2nd grade that I was being disrespected and devalued when my teacher called me by my first name but I was required to call her Mrs. X. It just wasn't right. It was shaming.
Use traditional methods to teach reading, writing and arithmetic and then non-traditional methods to teach the incredible JOY of learning. Once the JOY of learning is discovered, then students do not need teachers as much as they need tour guides & inspiration.
Make the question more important than the answer. Reward good questions as much as good answers. Without questions, no education is taking place. How many times were you chastised for asking a question that the teacher said "isn't relevant" to the topic at hand, or that will be addressed in a few years-after enthusiasm dies
STOP TELLING STUDENTS THAT WHEN THEY HAVE A DIPLOMA OR DEGREE THAT THEY ARE EDUCATED. They are not. They may have basic knowledge. If they went on to earn a specialized degree, they have specialized knowledge; but they have left so much out, they are functionally uneducated. (too few pieces of the big picture)
Life-long learning is a personal responsibility that comes with GREAT rewards. This is one of the secrets that current educational paradigms work hard to keep secret. The message from our educational paradigms is that self-education is dangerous. I've heard that too many times.
for starter
Mar 8 2013: Joy of learning. I think I am one of the lucky ones to have that joy of learning. I do best when I can read, think and absorb the information by myself with someone available to consult if I have a problem understanding something. I am 65 years old, and just started a year long college level class about nutrition. It is distance learning, and uses all the ways people learn. The school is the Institute for Intergrative Nutrition. Brillant program designed to make people succeed, however they personally define success.
I wish I had been able to go to such a school when I was a child. Since I was so smart I was expected to get A's and only A's and anything less was failure. Set me up for perfectionist failure, time after time. My creative side was encouraged at home with access to art supplies and craft kits given year round. I continued to play with my creativity. I have in the past founded a writer's support group. As the 'leader" I encouraged other creative people who were stuck or blocked to just "play". It was wonderful to be around other people who wanted to create. One thing I did notice was a lack of confidence that was shared by most. So few had been understood or encouraged ever before in their life. Everyone should encourage the "spark of creativity" that exists in each person. What that spark might become is unknown sometimes but just giving a person permission to play can work wonders. They can take that spark, that permission to shine and do whatever they feel is their creative gift to the world.
Fritzie -
Feb 20 2013: Let me add a few more leads for you.
- +2
If you are doing scholarly research or research for professional development, three compendia of research articles will provide an excellent foundation. They are the Handbook of Gifted Education (child-focused), the Cambrdge Handbook of Learning Sciences, and the Cambridge Handbook of Creativity. In these you will find papers by the leading researchers in this field.
In terms of organizations, the National Association for Gifted Children is a leading professional organization, which publishes the Gifted Child Quarterly for scholars in this area and a second journal for teachers and parents.
Other leading organizations that focus on gifted young people and those who teach them that I think are worthy of your taking a peek are the Davidson Institute in Nevada, which takes prodigiously gifted kids out of normal school and transitions them to college work with age-appropriate guidance, the Early Entry Program and Young Scholars Program at the University of Washington, which do the same, and the premier online course offerings specifically tailored to the learning needs of gifted children in the US - Stanford;s Education Program for Gifted Youth, the Stanford Online High School, and Johns Hopkins' Center for Talented Youth.
The best known public magnet school for gifted children in the US is probably Thomas Jefferson of Alexandria, Virginia, though there are a large number of stellar magnet schools in medium to large cities, as well as private schools for gifted kids. One of the best known, particularly for mathematically precocious kids, is Phillips Exeter Academy.
One superb online learning source not connected to a brick-and-mortar school or college, again for mathematically gifted kids, that offers not-for-credit courses and a community of learners is Art of Problem Solving. This website draws students from all over the world. Their offerings are superb.
Feb 23 2013: Can I give you a hug? This is such a big help! THANKS! Will research on how to get hold of those handbooks.
Feb 23 2013: Oh, I am glad! This is my area of specialty. As you are at a university, you know the benefits of looking at research rather than going with anecdotes that tend not to present a valid general picture.Feb 19 2013: Gifted and Creative individuals exist in everyone, but there is a lack of environment and a lack of support for people to rise above what they are currently situated in. For example, a gifted single mother with 3 children that strives to overcome poverty without lapsing to her own mental illnesses of childhood trauma.
When I mention lack of environment, I mean that there isn't enough space in current education and society to explore and work on our inner selves. We are dealt with what we have and those who don't thrive can not relocate or no one cares to try to understand the person who is different and helping others is a problem when we can't even help ourselves.
The lack of support is just self-explanatory. Where is compassion and empathy these days? We could all use some good guidance in life or at least someone who can give constructive criticism. I think anyone who is creative or gifted is stifled by the opiates of the masses (capitalism and materialism) as well as social conformity without room to expand upon the frameworks that have been built by the media and authority figures, though we are probably doing much better than people 20 years ago.
It is just my limited perspective from my limited understanding of the world, but I hope it can aid you somehow. =)


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Welcome to The City of Dunkirk
City Bulletin Board:
Seventh Street to be closed from Monroe to Deer this Friday, September 4
September 3, 2015-Brush Pickup Schedule
August 12, 2015-Residential Asbestos Survey for 7 Properties
The City of Dunkirk's web pages contain information on various aspects of City government and the wonderful City of Dunkirk. Over the upcoming weeks you will see this welcome page evolve from its current form into an interactive page featuring polls, news and other information pertinent to City affairs.
It is our hope that this website evolves into a vital source of information for citizens and an effective medium for receiving feedback from concerned stakeholders.
For those visitors to this website that are not familiar with Dunkirk, it is a community of hardworking, caring people who are proud of their heritage and the City's history. You will find that Dunkirk has a great deal to offer. Our recreational facilities are unsurpassed throughout Western New York for a municipality of our size. Our housing stock is plentiful and diverse, offering everything from historically renovated homes to a modern apartment or a lake front lifestyle.
Whether you call Dunkirk home, are visiting for the first time, or you are just getting reacquainted with her, I hope that you and your family enjoy this wonderful City and all that it has to offer. This site is designed to be both informative and helpful and I hope you will find it as such.
Link to Assessment Roles online
2014 City of Dunkirk Water Quality Report

subset: commoncrawl


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Movies and television programs from Sony Pictures.
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15 October 2010
Posted in Press and Media
It's Also Walmart $5 Day! See Everything at the Science Center for Only $5
All the exhibits, films and live programs plus all the eco-friendly activities, thanks to the Walmart Foundation
Saturday, October 16 only, 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
WHO: Guests coming to the Orlando Science Center for Greenovations will get to make cookies using solar ovens!
WHAT: During Walmart $5 Day, all visitors get in for only $5 and get access to all the Science Center's engaging exhibits and films plus enjoy activities and displays during Greenovations - a day-long exploration of renewable energy and green living.
WHEN: Saturday, October 16 - 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
WHERE: Orlando Science Center, 777 East Princeton Street, Orlando - Solar Ovens will be set up on the fourth floor terrace.
WHY: Targeted at the residential energy consumer, Greenovations offers hands-on activities for all ages with an environmental awareness focus. Exhibits, speakers, films and displays will highlight the fast-developing world of clean, renewable energy, recycling and energy efficient technology. Make artwork of recycled plastics, ride a Segway, learn how worms are better than a garbage disposal and bake cookies using a solar oven.
SUN BAKED GOODNESS! Cooking with a solar oven is easy and fun and helps the environment, too! The sun energizes your food using reflectors made of highly polished, mirror-like anodized aluminum. Demonstrations of solar ovens will include baking cookies using the sun with temperatures of 360-degrees or more (just like your oven at home) - no fossil fuels or electricity is required.
COST: Admission is only $5 for everyone (regular admission is usually $17 for adults, $12 for kids - ages 3-11).
INFO: Please call 407.514.2000 or visit www.osc.org.
SPONSORS: OUC - The Reliable One, Walmart Foundation, Kohler, Ferguson, the Florida Renewable Energy Association, Azur Solar, City of Orlando, IKEA, Nova Charge, Orange County/CFEEA, Segway, Superior Solar and Sybac Solar.


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Holistic Health
Create greater health, happiness and peace of mind in your life.
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Alternative and/or/not Complementary
Did you ever hear the saying: "Be careful what you wish for…" At the end of last week's post I threw out the teaser that we'd explore the adjectives "Alternative" and "Complementary" in terms of health care this week. Little did I realize the linguistic minefield I had just chosen to walk through. The sheer […] [Read More]


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Grants Pass, Ore. -- Starting on Monday, April 14th, the Josephine County Sheriff's Department will have double the number of current deputies on patrol.
The new addition brings the patrol force to two.
The Board of Commissioners Tuesday approved the move which requires the use of backfill funds.
Backfill funds are typically used to fill temporary positions when someone is out sick.
Sgt. Ray Webb has been the department's lone deputy since a decline in federal timber payments forced the layoffs of nearly two-thirds of the department's 98 staff members in 2012.
Webb says he's looking forward to getting caught up on uninvestigated crime reports.
The new position is approved through June 30th.


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Strings (2004)
Drama, SciFi/Fantasy
In a fairy tale land, living puppets jostle for control of the kingdom after a monarch's death. Old emperor Hebelon commits suicide so son Hal can ascend to the throne. But Hal's scheming uncle Nezo and his henchman tell Hal his father has been killed by the Zeriths, nomadic warriors who had their homeland usurped by the denizens of Hebelon, in order to send him on a suicide mission to avenge his dad, leaving Nezo clear to take the throne. All the while, the timber-and-stone race acknowledge the ropes leading out of their bodies into infinity and carve their children out of wood.
Cast: James McAvoy, Ian Hart, Catherine McCormack, Derek Jacobi, Julian Glover
Produced by: Sam Taylor, Niels Bald, Mike Downey
Directed by: Anders Ronnow-Klarlund
Written by: Anders Ronnow-Klarlund, Naja Marie Aidt
Running time: 1hr 28min
Opens: Sep 30, 2004 Limited
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Home > Watches & Accessories > Watch Winders > Dual Watch Winders > Steinhausen 4-mode Dual Wood Watch Winder - Holds 5
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A Brief History of Glass Making
Glass is an ancient invention, dating back to the Bronze Age, circa 3000 BC, and Egyptian glass beads have been found dating back to about 2500 BC. Modern glass originated in Alexandria during the Ptolemaic period, when artisans first began creating glass mosaics. The Syrians invented glass blowing in the 1st century BC, and this method was used for centuries to make windows and other large glass surfaces. The first clear glass was created in Venice in the 15th century; however, it was not until 1902 that Irving W. Colburn invented the first sheet glass drawing machine, which enabled the production of panes of glass for windows. This invention revolutionized glass making and paved the way for modern glass that you see on windows and glass interior doors.
Interior French Doors Are the Perfect Fit for Any Home
Though most people consider French doors the type of door that leads outside, interior French doors are a lovely design element that looks great when used any number of ways. French doors come in a variety of styles, but there is a basic structure to all of them. They are made of glass panes that extend from the floor to the ceiling, and the panes are symmetrical and evenly spaced, usually eight panels to a door. Within this basic structure, however, you can have a number of variations.
Office Dividers Increase Productivity and Collaboration
As a good employer, you not only care about productivity, you care about your employees' overall well-being, as well. If you are looking for a way to boost both, consider installing an office divider. In today's workplace, employers are moving away from a traditional office structure with private offices and cubicles. Instead, they are embracing open work spaces with plenty of communal areas. A recent poll showed that by 2015, over three-quarters of all offices in the U.S. plan to use this model. But researchers warn that while there are some benefits to this system, there may be drawbacks, as well.
Pocket Doors Maximize Space and Maintain the Aesthetic Flow of Your Home
Pocket doors are a unique style of doors that were incredibly popular during the Victorian era. These sliding doors roll into a cage enclosed in the wall, and according to Tim Carter, a building expert, they can add up to 10 extra feet of floor space. Though these were rather ingenious inventions, as the Victorian Age waned, the manufacturers who made hardware for pocket doors began to go out of business. However, these doors have begun to surge in popularity again, thanks in part to improved hardware and also to the rise of smaller urban lofts, apartments, and condominiums. In these dwellings, pocket doors can be a lifesaver when it comes to maximizing square footage. They are often used for bathrooms, closets, and utility rooms, and they are particularly helpful for the handicapped, since they are much easier to open than regular swinging doors.
Bypass Doors for the Do-It-Yourselfer
You have worked hard to decorate your home, choosing the best paint, fabrics, and furniture, working to optimize the flow of the rooms, and opening the space to plenty of natural light. You certainly don't want to mar the design with obtrusive closets, a conspicuous shower, or a glaringly obvious laundry room. With bypass doors, you can avoid this problem, closing off these utilitarian spaces with a sleek, minimalist door that is as beautiful as the rest of your home. Bypass doors slide one behind the other so that space is minimized.
Custom Doors for Any Space and Style
At The Sliding Door Company, we not only offer beautiful, safe, and environmentally friendly doors, we also offer our customers the unique opportunity of designing their own doors to meet their specifications. Our custom doors are available for homes and businesses, and with a wide variety of frames, finishes, and hardware, everyone is sure to find something that will fit both their needs and their style.
The Room Divider: From 7th Century China to the Contemporary U.S.
If you live in a small space like an urban loft, or if you are trying to decorate your home on a budget, a decorative room divider can be a great help. Though room dividers are becoming more and more popular in sleek, modern decorative style, room dividers actually date back to China in the 7th century AD. These weighty, highly ornate screens were primarily used by royalty. One hundred years later, the Japanese adapted the decorative room divider and began using Shoji screens—light panels that were easy to move. Shoji screens were – and still are – used for tea ceremonies and religious events, and for maximizing space inside Japanese homes. As Europeans discovered the wonders of China and Japan, they brought the style back home with them and created beautiful Asian-inspired room dividers made of wood, leather, silk, and decoupage. In the U.S. today, practical screens are often used in hospitals, offices, hotels, schools, and restaurants. In recent years, the decorative room divider has become an increasingly popular feature in interior design, as well.
Flex Walls: Renovation without the Mess or Expense
For those looking to save money, economize space, disguise a utilitarian corner in their homes, or create more privacy in an office, few things are as helpful as a flex wall. A flex wall is a temporary wall that looks permanent but stays up using pressure. This means it does not actually attach to the walls, ceiling, or floor, it is easy to remove, and it doesn't leave major damage to the existing walls. Despite the fact that it is temporary, however, a flex wall is quite stable and provides the same benefits as a permanent wall.
French Doors throughout the Centuries
French doors are a staple of classic architecture and interior design. Their symmetrical panels, classical shape, and optional ornate hardware make them an excellent choice for nearly any home – from a small country cottage to a large antebellum-style home, from a large home with a porch across the front to a small, urban apartment with a balcony. Though they come in many different styles, French doors typically follow the same basic design with panes of glass that extend the entire length of the door; usually, these glass panes are grouped together in pairs.
17th Century Style with 21st Century Functionality
Just as science continues to evolve, change, and advance throughout the centuries, so too, does architecture. Though French doors have been around since the 17th century, modern technology and techniques have allowed designers to utilize this classic style and update it to the 21st century. French sliding doors allow you to embrace the lovely, classic style while maximizing space and maintaining your open, modern floor plan. When you buy French sliding doors from The Sliding Door Company, you are getting even more advanced technology with our patented wheel-to-track locking mechanism that ensures your door will never leave its track. Not only does this track enhance its beauty and functionality, it also makes our doors safer.


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We're seriously buzzed. Overly caffeinated. Jittery, even. Cue the coffee puns, because we just got an entire pot of inspiration from one of our morning fixes, A Cup of Jo blogger Joanna Goddard. When we heard the stylish scribe was redecorating her bedroom, we knew we had to get in on this fix-up. And, since Jo is one of our internet besties (and we heart her in real life, too), she obliged, letting us into her West Village pad to snap the new sleeping quarters. Of course, we weren't letting her go without some light interrogation questions, and thankfully she can chat as much as we do! The writer—whose legions of fans follow her every word, so get your pens out—gave us the exclusive on everything from her sneaky storage tips, money saving secrets (the makeover was affordable!), and of course, all the kid friendly advice any interior-obsessed mom could want. Cool beans, right? (Can't believe we just said that.)
Click through to see Joanna Goddard's beautiful new bedroom.
Photographed by Oh Darling! Photography.


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Series: Saturday Science Links (29 entries)
The biggest science stories of the week are reviewed.
The Resource Finder has powerful filtering features — check out the tutorial to learn more.
The biggest science stories of the week are reviewed.
This series features the plenary lectures from the Evolution and Christian Faith conference in Grand Rapids, MI, held from June 20 to July 2, 2015.
The history of interpretation of Adam from Genesis to the 1st Century reveals a bold and astonishing diversity in which the authors made of Adam what they needed of Adam.
When we make distinctions between natural and supernatural activity in Scripture, not only do we push our modern categories into the Bible, but we also limit God's action.
In both form and content, then, Genesis 1 reveals that its basic purposes are religious and theological, not scientific or historical.
In the early 1700s, Isaac Newton and Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz famously disagreed about whether God periodically "corrected" the orbits of the planets. Why their disagreement matters for today's debates about God and evolution.
Evangelicals are skeptical of space exploration—but can pastors change this from the pulpit?
The former chair of the Harvard University physics department muses on how faith gives meaning to his scientific work.
The story of the Genesis Rock reminds us of how biblical and scientific accounts, despite their different purviews and purposes, remain inexorably linked in our understanding of origins.
Some of the Christian objections to evolutionary creation come from a misunderstanding of what the Bible means when it says "God created".
Are black holes in trouble? Could life have come from space? What do we know about the religious lives of Indian scientists? Find the answers to these questions and more.
When we sit down to read sacred Scripture, we need to develop a rapport with the Bible's various authors and their worldviews. Otherwise, we will unintentionally demand they communicate in the same manner we do.
This week's news features volcanoes, skeletons, and stars, as well as a thought-provoking new book from InterVarsity press.
From science and religion blogs: quantum uncertainty and God, the remarkable fact that we have come to understand our place in the created order, and the role of theology in making wise choices about the use of technology.
God could have created a fertile planet miraculously in an instant, but when we look carefully at the physical evidence, it appears that the earth has a longer history as part of the universe.
God could have created a fertile planet miraculously in an instant, but when we look carefully at the physical evidence, it appears that the earth has a longer history as part of the universe.
This is a transcript of an interview given by Dr. Jennifer Wiseman at The Faith Angle Forum Conference on Religion, Politics, & Public Life on November 5, 2013.
Astronomers have many different methods for measuring the age of various objects in the universe, and they all support ages of billions of years, not thousands. Even if the assumptions of one or two methods were faulty, it is highly unlikely that all of the methods would be affected.
Over the next few months, with permission from Yale University Press, BioLogos will offer edited versions of chapters from John Polkinghorne's best books, Belief in God in an Age of Science and Theology in the Context of Science, in order to help readers delve more deeply into some of his most important ideas.
Although committed to the principle of sola Scriptura, Calvin recognized that the Bible would have been written in terms its original recipients would have understood. Calvin inherited the medieval cosmology of his time, a way of viewing the world heavily influenced by Greek thought and one which was about to receive shocks from astronomers such as Copernicus and Galileo. But not just yet.


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We supply a huge range of outdoor clothing and accessories which we are sure will meet your needs.
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Our product lines are chosen on merit not profit margin by staff and customer input, although we are able to order any current lines from any of our suppliers.
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