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IAEA Nuclear Security Series
Nuclear security issues relating to the prevention and detection of, and response to, theft, sabotage, unauthorized access and illegal transfer or other malicious acts involving nuclear material and other radioactive substances and their associated facilities are addressed in the IAEA Nuclear Security Series publications. These publications are consistent with, and complement, international nuclear security instruments such as the Convention on the Physical Protection of Nuclear Material and its Amendment, the Code of Conduct on the Safety and Security of Radioactive Sources, the Supplementary Guidance on the Import and Export of Radioactive Sources, the United Nations Security Council resolutions 1373 and 1540 and the International Convention for the Suppression of Acts of Nuclear Terrorism.
Categories in the IAEA Nuclear Security Series
Publications in the IAEA Nuclear Security Series are issued in the following categories:
- Nuclear Security Fundamentals specify the objective of a State's nuclear security regime and the essential elements of such a regime. These provide the basis for the Nuclear Security Recommendations
- Nuclear Security Recommendations publications set out measures that States should take to achieve and maintain an effective national nuclear security regime consistent with the Fundamentals
- Implementing Guides provide guidance on means by which States could implement the measures set out in the Recommendations. As such, they focus on how to meet the Recommendations relating to broad areas of nuclear security
- Technical Guidance publications provide guidance on specific technical subjects to supplement the guidance set out in Implementing Guides. As such, they focus on details of how to carry out the necessary measures
Nuclear Security Series Glossary
The Nuclear Security Series Glossary is a compilation of the terms and definitions used in guidance publications issued to date in the Nuclear Security Series. At present, its primary purpose is as a working document for drafters and technical officers preparing future publications in this Series, and reviewers considering drafts of such publications, to ensure that terminology and usage is consistent with existing publications. As such , it will be updated as further Nuclear Security Series publications are issued.
In the longer term, it will also be used, in consultation with the Nuclear Security Guidance Committee and subject matter experts, as a basis for refining terminology and definitions where necessary to help further improve the clarity, consistency and coherence of the IAEA's nuclear security guidance. With this in mind, it is being made available to a wider audience for comment.
Any comments on the Glossary should be submitted to
Drafting and review
The preparation and review of Nuclear Security Series publications involves the IAEA Secretariat, experts from Member States (who assist the IAEA Secretariat in drafting the publications) and the Nuclear Security Guidance Committee (NSGC), which reviews and approves draft publications. Where appropriate, open-ended technical meetings are also held during drafting to provide an opportunity for specialists from Member States and relevant international organizations to review and discuss the draft text. In addition, to ensure a high level of international review and consensus, the Secretariat submits the draft texts to all Member States for a period of 120 days for formal review.
The process for drafting and reviewing publications in the IAEA Nuclear Security Series takes account of confidentiality considerations and recognizes that nuclear security is inseparably linked with general and specific national security concerns. An underlying consideration is that related IAEA safety standards and safeguards activities should be taken into account in the technical content of the publications.
Nuclear Security Guidance Committee
The Nuclear Security Guidance Committee (NSGC) is a standing body of senior representatives in the area of nuclear security, open to all Member States of the Agency. It was established by the Director General in 2012 to make recommendations to the Agency on the development and review of the Nuclear Security Series publications. The objective is to significantly contribute to greater transparency, consensus, quality, coherence and consistency by engaging more Member States in the development of international publications for nuclear security.
- All IAEA Member States have been invited to nominate a member of NSGC, and members are expected to represent the views of their State
- Relevant international organizations and relevant non-governmental bodies may be invited to attend NSGC meetings as observers
For further information please contact


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text:
Mike Conway went from watching to winning IndyCar events in a week, less than a year after backing out of an oval race and wondering when he'd get another shot.
"Amazing,'' he said.
The British driver dominated the first of two races at the Detroit Grand Prix, finishing nearly 13 seconds ahead of defending series champion Ryan Hunter-Reay on Saturday.
"What a weekend for Conway to show up'' Hunter-Reay said.
Conway's margin of victory set a race record, beating the 12.2-second cushion 1999 winner Dario Franchitti had over Paul Tracy, and making team owner Dale Coyne seem as if he's the smartest guy in the Motor City. Conway's only other IndyCar win was at Long Beach in 2011.
Coyne picked Conway to drive one of its two cars this weekend - after Conway helped tend his father's garden in England during the Indianapolis 500 on Sunday - and wasted no time offering him another opportunity.
"You want to go to Toronto now?'' Coyne asked Conway after the race.
Yes, he does because the Streets of Toronto race in July suits his road-racing preference.
Conway chose not to race in last September's season finale at Fontana because he's uncomfortable racing on ovals. He had serious leg and back injuries after a 2010 crash at Indianapolis and wrecked there again in 2012.
In his only other IndyCar race since then, he qualified fifth and finished 25th this year at Long Beach for Bobby Rahal.
"I knew it would be hard to make something possible for this year,'' Conway said.
The open-wheel series is running a second, full-length race in the same weekend for the first time Sunday when Conway will start up front for the first time in his career.
If Conway can finish first again, he'll get a $50,000 for the sweep.
"You can get a new suit,'' Coyne cracked.
"I can get my name stitched on it,'' he responded with a grin.
Justin Wilson finished third and was thrilled for Conway, his Dale Coyne Racing teammate, for winning just four days after finalizing a deal to race in Detroit.
"I think it's just a really cool story,'' Wilson said.
Scott Dixon finished fourth and Helio Castroneves was fifth, putting him No. 1 in IndyCar points just ahead of Hunter-Reay.
Indy 500 champion Tony Kanaan was 13th after starting 19th in the 25-car field.
Marco Andretti, who put his famous family atop the standings for the first time in more than a decade earlier in the week, finished 20th and made at least one other driver very angry.
Sebastian Saavedra hit a tire barrier on lap 33 after Andretti ran him into a wall.
"It's just frustrating to see that Marco keeps doing these dirty moves and as usual nothing is done to him,'' said Saavedra, who extended his middle fingers toward Andretti when he passed by on his next lap. "It's just a very frustrating day.''
It was for AJ Allmendinger, too.
After it was announced that he's going to run two NASCAR Nationwide road race for Penske Racing, he failed to finish a lap after getting squeezed between Scott Dixon and Wilson.
"It's just my fault,'' he said. "I feel bad.''
Allmendinger, and the rest of the drivers who didn't win, will have a chance to bounce back in Sunday's race on the 2.36-mile Belle Isle street course that held up much better than it did last year.
Dixon won last year's Detroit Grand Prix marred by pot holes and grooves that stopped the race for a little more than 2 hours and shortened the 90-lap race to 70.
To avoid embarrassment and create more opportunities to pass, Roger Penske's Michigan-based company and Chevrolet invested nearly $2 million to improve and reconfigure the track.
It looked like money well spent.
Drivers had opportunities to make more moves and Conway took advantage right away and pavement stayed in place.
"It was much better passing for sure,'' Hunter-Reay said. "It was a big difference.''
Conway went around E.J. Viso, who started first, heading into Turn 1 on the opening lap to take his first lead since a race in Edmonton on July 24, 2011.
Hunter-Reay took a turn with the lead as well from lap 23 to 43, but couldn't prevent Conway from getting inside of him on lap 44.
"I thought I was turning some decent times at the time and he was still under my gearbox at every corner,'' Hunter-Reay recalled. "It was a good, clean pass. And once he got by me, he was gone.''


text: Tips on how to find a pediatrician and make the most of the doctor/patient relationship. Note: Doctor profiles, reviews and ratings are the property of Vitals.com and should not be taken as recommendations from Parenting.Working with your pediatrician How to Change Pediatricians Choosing a Pediatrician (Part I of III) 8 Times Your Pediatrician Wants You To Call Questions to Ask a Pediatrician How to Talk to Your Doctor 5 Questions You Should Ask Your Baby's Doctor New Parent tips for infant health and care Can Colic Be Cured? Your Baby's Poop 5 Common Infant Skin Conditions news from the American academy of pediatrics Early Signs of Autism in Infants 7 Social Media Safety Tips for Kids AAP's New Rear-Facing Car Seat Safety Guidelines expert advice from Dr. sears Ask Dr. Sears: A Common Skin Problem Ask Dr. Sears: A Hesitant Crawler Ask Dr. Sears: A Sweet Child Turned Sour


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Cameron Diaz doesn't believe in sharing her bed with the same person for her "whole life".
The 37-year-old actress - who has most recently been romantically linked to baseball player Alex 'A-Rod' Rodriguez - believes monogamy is an outdated concept and says it's perfectly acceptable not to spend your life with one partner.
She said: "Relationships can last two, five or 20 years. I don't believe in sharing your bed with the same person your whole life, though. That might be a reality for some, but it surely isn't for me."
Cameron - who has enjoyed a string of high-profile romances with the likes of Justin Timberlake, Matt Dillon and Jared Leto - believes society puts too much pressure on people to get married and says there is nothing wrong with staying single.
She added in an interview with German magazine Bunte: "You don't find true love, it finds you. Somewhere out there, there's someone you can share your love with. Our society tries to makes us believe you're ready for love at 18, have to get married and spend the rest of your life with the same man. Bullshit! That's not the ideal anymore these days. Some people find their true love at 50 and with today's life expectancy you could live another 50 years with that person. Just imagine having to sleep with the same guy for 20, 30 or even 50 years. If you can't you shouldn't go there." The Himalayan


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Hi everyone,
My wife was going to do a downwinder and then the wind died and turned offshore sending her under the San Mateo bridge, and she had to jettision the equipment. .
If anyone finds a loose 8M orange Ocean Rodeo Rise with bar, or a purple DCboardz 128cm board (has her nickname Jambsta on it, with cell 415-438-0508), please send me a PM... we'd really really appreciate it. Email would be easiest to reach us as we are going on a trip soon.
Many thanks to the Coast Guard for helping out, and for the kiters at the shore who helped and called them-- very much appreciated.
Ed (415-867-6058), firstname.lastname@example.com


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Une lectrice m'a mis sur la piste d'un descendant d'Olivier Charbonneau…
Non celui-ci ne vit pas à Sainte-Anne et il ne sera pas du dîner de lundi en compagnie de Paul.
Intéressant comment des gens d'ici ont marqué l'histoire des États-Unis.
Si vous lisez l'anglais, cliquez ici, car on vous donnera plus de détails.
Jean-Baptiste était un descendant d'Olivier Charbonneau.
Il est le fils de Toussaint fils de Jean qui est le fils de Michel, fils de Michel, fils d'Olivier.
Pour en savoir plus, cliquez ici.
J'ai trouvé ces informations sur un site en anglais qui donne toute la lignée.
b. 1611 Maran diocese of La Rochelle, France
d. bur 21 Nov 1687 Pointe aux Trembles, Montreal
m. Marie Marguerite GARNIER in France before 31 Dec 1655
b. ?
d. ?
Children: (born before 1766 – there could be other children b. after 1766)
i. Anne b. 11 Apr 1657 in France d. 11 Apr 1729 m. 23 Nov 1671 in Montreal
Guillaume LABELLE
ii. Joseph b. 16 Dec 1660 in Montreal d. 24 Sep 1722 St Francois de Sales m. 8 Jan 1688 in Boucherville Anne PICARD
iii. Jean b. 3 Nov 1662 Montreal d. 7 Jan 1730 Varennes m. 15 Jul 1686 Boucherville Marie Jeanne PICARD
iv. Elisabeth (Isabelle) b. 11 Jul 1664 Montreal d. 18 Feb 1738 St Francois de Sales m. before 5 Mar 1681 Andre CYR
v. Michel b. 2 Oct 1666 Montreal d. 3 May 1724 Bouchervlle, m. 12 Nov 1692 Boucherville Marguerite DENOYON
MICHEL CHARBONNEAU (2, Olivier 1)
b. 2 Oct 1666 Montreal
d. bur 3 May 1724 Boucherville
m. 12 Nov 1692 Boucherville Marguerite DENOYON d/o Jean Baptiste Denoyon and
Marie CHAUVIN and brother of Jacques Denoyon
b.20 Aug 1673
d. ?
Children: (born Boucherville except Jean Baptiste)
i. Marie m. 7 Nov 1712 Louis REGUINDAU
ii. Jacqus m. 29 Oct 1725 Marie Francoise LAMOUREUX
iii. Jean Baptiste m. 10 Jan 1729 Marie Catherine DENIAU
iv. Michel m. 12 Oct 1722 Genevieve LACROIX
v. Marguerite m. 27 Sep 1723 Jean Baptiste SICOTLA dit LIBERETE
vi. Pierre m. 26 May 1732 Angelique Marie Anne FAVREAU
vii. Marie Louise m. 10 Feb 1727 Louis QUAYDARAGONGUAY
MICHEL CHARBONNEAU, JR (3, Michel 2, Olivier 1)
b.22 Nov 1699 Boucherville
d. ?
m. 12 Oct 1722 Genevieve LACROIX (Geneveva Babin dit Richaume) d/o Pierre
BABIN dit LACROIX and Magdelene RICHAUME
b. 1730 Boucherville
d. ?
i. Marie Madeline b. 1723 d. 1723
ii. Marie Madeliene b. 1724 d. 1733, age 9
iii. Michel m. 1747 Marie Madeleine ROBERT
iv. Jean Baptiste b. 1727 d. 1728, age 1
v. Pierre m. 1754 Marie Louise PETIT
vi. Joseph b. 1730 d. 1731, age 1
vii. Francois b. 1731 d. infancy
viii. Marie Anne m. 1756 Pierre LABADIE
ix. Jean Baptiste b. 1734 d. infancy
x. Jean Baptiste b. 1735 m. 1756 Marguerite DENIAU
xi. Elisabeth b. 1736 d. 1744, age 8
xii. Marie Madeleine b. 1738 d. 1738
xiii. Francois b. 1739 d. 1739
xiv. Gabriel b. 1740 d. 1744, age 4
JEAN BAPTISTE CHARBONNEAU (4, Michel, Jr 3, Michel 2, Olivier 1)
b. 1735 or 1727
bur 17 Jun 1791 Detroit MI
m. Oct 10 1756 Boucherville Marguerite DENIAU d/o Pierre and Marie Angelique
JOACHIM (Reguindeau per Denissen)
b.19 Apr 1735 Longueuil
d. ?
Children: (born before 1766)
i. Marguerite b. 15 May 1757 Boucherville
ii. Francoise b. 24 Oct 1759 Boucherville
iii. Jean Baptiste b. 7 Dec 1761 Chambly
iv. Marie Amable b.5 Sep 1763 Pointe Olivier St Mathias
v. Marie Therese b. 1 Apr 1765 Boucherville
(born after 1766)
vi. Toussaint b. 21 Mar 1767 Boucherville
(possibly other children born after 1767)
TOUSSAINT CHARBONNEAU (Jean Baptiste 4, Michel, Jr. 3, Michel 2, Olivier 1)
b. 21 Mar 1767
d. possibly at Fort Mandan after 1837
took as wife Sacagawea (Shoshone) ca 1803/4
b. ca 1790
d. 1812 Fort Mandan
i. Jean Baptiste (« Pomp » meaning first born)
b. 11 Feb 1805 Fort Mandan (was raised by William Clark)
bp 28 Dec 1809 St Louis Old Cathedral Parish
d. 16 May 1866 age 61 in Cow Creek, Danner, Oregon
Placer Herald of Auburn, California July 7, 1866
J. B. Charbonneau Death of a California Pioneer
A letter announcing the death of Jean Baptiste Charbonneau who left the country some weeks ago with two companions for Montana Territory. this letter is from one of the party who says,
« Mr. Charbonneau was taken sick with mountain fever on the Owyhee and died after a short illness. He had remained here with little intermission until his departure for the gold fields of Montana, which strangely enough was the scene of his birth. His father was a French Canadian and his mother a half breed of the Crow tribe. As a young man he went to Europe. At breaking out of the Mexican War was engaged as a guide and came to California. He determined to return to the scene of his youth, but the weight of years was too much for him, and he now sleeps alone by the bright waters of the Owyhee. »
The Owyhee Avalanche, Ruby City later moved to Silver city Idaho, gave another obituary on June 2, 1866.
« At Inskip ranch, Cow Creek in Jordan Valley, Jean Baptiste Charbonneau, aged 63 years, of pneumonia. Was born at St Louis, Missouri, one of the oldest trappers and pioneers; piloted the Mormon Brigade. Resided Placer County, was on route to Montana. »
The Children of Sacagawea & Toussaint Charbonneau
Jean Baptiste Charbonneau lived at least until 1866. His life can be traced through various records of explorers and fur traders up until that time. He was said to be a remarkable man; superior as a guide and trapper, but also well-educated and conversant in French, German and Spanish as well as his native Shoshone. He was with Prince Paul of Wurttemberg on his travels of the American West in 1823, and returned with him to Germany where he stayed for several years, returning in 1829.
He was with Jim Bridger in 1832, with Kit Carson in 1839 and in charge of a fur-trading party in 1842 when they met Charles Fremont. He was included in George Frederick Ruxton's book, « Life in the Far West » as one of the important fur traders of that time. He was with Lt. Abert on an exploration down the Canadian River and with Col. Philip Cooke and his troops from New Mexico to California. In 1866 he started for the gold fields in Montana and Idaho, but is said to have died on Cow Creek near the present town of Danner, Oregon in 1866. Shoshone oral traditions, however, say that he returned to his tribe during that time and was re-united with his mother, Sacajawea where he lived until his death in 1885.
Lisette Charbonneau died 15 or 16 June 1832, age 21, Old Cathederal St. Louis, MO
Clark Guardianship 11 August 1813 Orphans Court Records in St. Louis Missouri:
The court appoints (John Luttig crossed out) William Clark Guardian to the Infant children of Toussant Charbonneau deceased*, to wit Tousant** a boy about the age of ten years and Lisette Charbonneau a girl about one year old. The said infant children not being possessed of any property within the knowledge of the court, the said Guardian is not required to give bond.
* Toussaint Charbonneau did not die until many years later
** child's name was John-Baptiste
Great Grandmother of Toussaint Charbonneau
Marguerite Denoyon was the daughter of Jean Baptiste Denoyon and Marie Chauvin
Marie Chauvin was the only child of Marin Chauvin & Marie Gillette Banne.
After the death of Marin Chauvin, Gillette Banne married Jacques Bertault.
They in turn had six children one of whom was Elisabeth-Therese bp Jan 1659. Elisabeth was married at age 12 to Julien Latouche, age 30. Latouche turned out to be lazy, domineering, abusive and alcoholic. Elisabeth and her parents murdered Latouche. Jacques Bertault & Gillette Banne were hanged for this crime 9 June 1672, Gillette being the first female hanged in Canada. Because of her young age Elisabeth was spared death.
Marguerite Denoyon was the sister of Jacques Denoyon who married in 1704 Abigail Stebbins of Deerfield MA just prior to the French-Indian raid on Deerfield. There is endless information on Jacques Denoyon and Abigail Stebbins whose family came to New England in 1634.
Pour terminer…
On February 11, 1805, Captain Meriwether Lewis wrote: » … about five oclock this evening one of the wives of Charbono was delivered of a fine boy. » This was the first journal entry of the infant, Jean Baptiste Charbonneau, who would become the youngest member of the Corp of Discovery. Charbonneau traveled from North Dakota to the Pacific Ocean and back as an infant, carried along in the expedition's boats or upon his mother's back.
Charbonneau's image can be found on the Sakakawea dollar.
He is the only child ever depicted on U.S. currency.


text:
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Raiders add experience to untested secondary, signing CB Tracy Porter
ALAMEDA, Calif. – The Oakland Raiders have signed free agent cornerback Tracy Porter, adding an experienced starter to an untested unit.
General manager Reggie McKenzie announced the move Wednesday.
Porter played only six games last year for Denver because of problems with seizures and a concussion. He spent the previous four years in New Orleans. Raiders coach Dennis Allen was the secondary coach for the Saints in Porter's first three seasons.
His most productive season came in 2009, when he had four interceptions in the regular season and a Super Bowl-clinching interception return for a touchdown against Peyton Manning.
The other cornerbacks currently on Oakland's roster have combined for four career starts.


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Sarkisian easily wins Armenian presidential vote
YEREVAN, Armenia (AP) — Armenia's president easily won a second term, according to preliminary election results Tuesday, but his main rival claimed vote fraud and thousands of his supporters held a protest rally.
President Serge Sarkisian received nearly 59 percent of the vote, enough to avoid a runoff, Tigran Mukuchian, chairman of the country's Central Election Commission, said Tuesday.
The 58-year-old Sarkisian was widely expected to win. He has overseen a return to economic growth after years of stagnation, although the former Soviet republic still suffers from widespread poverty.
The closest of his six rivals, American-born Raffi Hovanessian, got 37 percent of the vote.
Hovanessian, Armenia's first foreign minister after the 1991 collapse of the Soviet Union, on Tuesday called the election unfair and rigged, claiming cases of ballot-box stuffing and voters being coerced to back Sarkisian.
At a protest rally in the capital that drew 2,000-3,000 people, Hovanessian declared himself the genuine winner and called on Sarkisian to arrange a transfer of power by Wednesday evening.
The rally ended peacefully, but some participants later held a march chanting "Raffi is president."
Just over 60 percent of Armenia's 2.5 million eligible voters cast ballots in Monday's election, the election commission said. All the votes have been counted, but the winner will not be officially declared until Feb. 25.
International observers from the Organization for the Security and Cooperation in Europe say the election "lacked competition," but they noted improvements over the previous poll.
OSCE observers said the fact that several influential politicians decided not to run may have "contributed to apathy and a lack of trust among voters."
Observer mission chief Tonino Picula said Tuesday that competition is "critical" if Armenia wants to live up to democratic aspirations.
Another OSCE news conference in Yerevan, this one by its Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights, was disrupted Tuesday when protesters stormed the room, jeering and demanding that OSCE representatives leave the country.
"You're legitimizing an illegal vote by your declarations!" said one protester, Artur Minasian.
He and other protesters would not say whether they backed Hovanessian or another opposition candidate.
The landlocked country's economy is hobbled by the longstanding closure of its borders with Azerbaijan and Turkey. Both neighbors reject the occupation by Armenian troops and ethnic Armenian local forces of Azerbaijan's Nagorno-Karabakh region. That conflict shows no signs of resolution despite years of international mediation attempts.


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Continued from Part 1.
After I handed off the baton to our next runner, we leap frogged the rest of our runners into the early evening. We had a blast cheering on our runners, ringing the cowbell, and chatting with our teammates and other runners. Our last runner finished just as the sun went down, and handed off the baton to the first runner in van #1, and we drove to the next major exchange (#18), stopping for some dinner along the way. At the exchange area, we tried to get some sleep. Cramped in an SUV with 5 others didn't make for very comfortable sleeping arrangements, though. I think I slept about 30 minutes before it was time to get up and meet van #1.
Somewhere around 1:00 am, our van's first runner got the baton, and took off for his 7-ish miles along the quiet highway. We met him three times along the course to give him water and encouragement (and cowbell). During one of our stops, we saw a police car, with lights flashing, fly by us. We then headed to the next exchange where I was to get ready for my 8.8 mile run. When we arrived, the volunteers said the parking lot was full. I jumped out, downed a gel and some water, and they directed the driver to pull back out on the highway and park on the shoulder. When I thought our first runner was getting close, I pulled off my jacket and pants, and headed to the start line. As I was waiting, they told us that there was a serious accident down the road, and the road was blocked, and that they weren't letting anyone go yet. So, we waited and waited. Our runner arrived to pass off the baton, and we waited some more. And then some more. Then, they finally told us that, due to the accident, everyone was to go directly to exchange 24, skipping legs 20-24 all together. Needless to say, we were all disappointed, but our thoughts were with the runner, or the volunteer, or the individual with no association with the race whatsoever (the rumors were flying, and nobody really knew what was going on).
At exchange 24 (where van #1 would have been scheduled to run), we were told that they would be starting everybody from that exchange, but there was a lot of confusion as to what was to be done with the rest of the legs. It turns out that we could pretty much do whatever we wanted. We contacted van #1, and found out that our captain was sick and not able to run again, her husband was hurting, and everybody else was indifferent on whether they ran their final leg or not. So, we decided that van #2 would run the 6 legs van #1 would have run (legs 25-30), and three of us would join three of van #1 for the final six legs of the race.
Coming out of exchange 24, I ran the first leg of 8.5 miles, all of which was uphill. Prior to starting, the accident was really getting to me. It put a real damper on everything. None of this mattered. Somebody was hit by a car, badly injured, or dead for all we knew. But once I started running, I began to feel invigorated, grateful to have the opportunity to run, grateful to be alive. As I ran, the sun was just starting to rise. A new day was beginning, and the world was brightening. I was filled with energy, and hardly noticed the hill. I began passing person after person, encouraging them as I passed. And my teammates were there for me, cheering me on. I reached the end of that 8.5 mile long hill with all smiles in an hour and 2 minutes, wishing I had said I'd run that last 8 mile run instead of the 3.3 miles in the last stretch to the finish.
Click here for Part 3.


text:
Congratulations to 4th round selection .... defensive tackle Jaye Howard for making his NFL regular season debut against the Jets last Sunday.
Jaye had 7 snaps with the defensive unit and 7 snaps with special teams.
That means 9 of 10 draft picks will have seen the field during the regular season. Only fifth round LB Korey Toomer will not make it to the show this year.


text:
'It smelt like hail," says Gavin Quinney. The Englishman, who moved his family to Bordeaux to make wine 14 years ago, had taken his dog for a pre-dinner stroll through his vineyard a week last Friday when he noticed the storm blowing in.
"The clouds were coming in towards us from the Atlantic side. I've seen this before, specifically in May 2009, and then again on September 1 2011 when a hailstorm went right over our heads and landed on nearby villages.
"I've not come across the same kind of thing in the UK. You get this build-up of heat, and still the sun shining, then a chill – not a wind, just a chill – and you can see from the way the clouds are moving in different directions…"
Back at the farmhouse where he and his wife had some friends round for supper, they were still debating whether it was warm enough to eat outside. "They all thought, oh, here's Gavin, the voice of doom," says Gavin.
Never mind the damage to dinner or a final outdoor aperitif. Hail is potentially catastrophic for a grape grower. Raining down like a biblical pestilence, the destructive pellets of ice tear shoots and branches off the vines, puncture leaves – or rip them off the plant entirely – and smash into bunches of pristine berries, splitting the skins, exposing the flesh to the air. A bad direct hit can destroy an entire year's harvest – in other words, an entire year's income – in less than 10 minutes.
Or, as Gavin puts it, "One minute you're moaning about coulure and millerendange on the merlot – and the next it's completely irrelevant."
Hail – grêle in France, where they mark up the weather forecasts with an ominous "G" in areas where a hailstorm is predicted – is, of course, just one of many weather problems that afflict farmers of all kinds. It's also one of the cruellest, landing on a vineyard like a ball settling into its slot on a roulette wheel, wreaking havoc on one man's crop and leaving his immediate neighbour's completely untouched.
This year has been a particularly bad one in France for the extreme weather patterns, as unsettled as a drunkard's walk, that bring hail.
In mid-July, vineyards in Provence, including Domaine Sainte Lucie and Domaines des Diables, who make the perfectly pale Made in Provence (MiP*) rosé sold by Lea & Sandeman, were hit. MiP* is a wine I love, and I am not the only one. Charles Lea tells me that the main cuvée is the biggest-selling product at L & S, "We have already sold out this year, despite having 40 per cent more than last."
An initial stock-take suggested that 40-100 per cent of the crop might be lost. "This is a real economic disaster," said Guillaume Philip, whose vineyard took a bad hail hit four years ago. Three weeks on, and the weather has been kind – dry and warm – allowing some split grapes to heal rather than rot – they will still be down, which isn't helpful if you are trying to build a business: "But there is a chance we will still make some wine."
At the end of July, a 10km stretch, including many premier crus vineyards, in Burgundy's Côte de Beaune was pummelled with hail, as well as violent storms, heavy rain and floods. Burgundy also suffered hail damage last year, so it is no surprise that with 2013 yields set to be low again there is a lot of talk of price rises. Champagne, too, was hit by the storms at the end of July.
As for the storm that ravaged the Entre Deux Mers region in Bordeaux – one that makes cheap, everyday wines rather than big, pricey ones – it struck the Quinneys' Château Bauduc with a bang at 8.40pm on August 2.
"The force of the wind was extraordinary," says Gavin. "The hailstones weren't huge – the biggest about the size of a pound coin – but the wind was blowing them, we watched them strike a metal watering can, the noise was like the soundtrack to Saving Private Ryan – ting, ting, like bullets."
And then, afterwards, the surveying of the damage. How much did Gavin lose? "Your guess is as good as mine. I'll send you photos. Fifty per cent? Maybe more? Depends how things go. You do think, 'What have I done to deserve this?' Then I went out and followed the line of destruction and saw some of the wastelands around Château Bonnet – vineyards that looked apocalyptic…"
In Argentina, hail is so common in some areas that growers net the vines to protect them from it. It's expensive, but not as expensive as losing a whole crop. In Bordeaux, netting is just not done. Is Gavin insured? "No. But look, it's not like getting car insurance. It's tens of thousands of pounds a year."
According to the CIVB – Bordeaux's bureaucratic body – only 15-20 per cent of growers are insured. It just costs too much. And although most regions experience some hail most years, the risk of a really disastrous storm has traditionally not been thought high enough to warrant the premium.
It's a tough business. Especially in this cut-throat market – where the attitude of high street retailers is: "We'd better tie growers to prices before the season ends, not afterwards, so we can guarantee our supply at a price. If it hails – that's their problem." The wines below might help.
Do your bit to help the hail-stricken
Grêle Rosé 2012 France (13%, Lea & Sandeman, £12.95/£11.95 case price; stjohngroup.uk.com; Townends of Hull)
A happy tale – and a good wine. On July 1 last year, Raimond de Villeneuve of Château de Roquefort in Provence watched in anguish as a hailstorm obliterated his crop. "I was up to my knees in hailstones, blue with cold." To salvage his year, 35 local vignerons donated grapes – and four special Grêle cuvées were born. This one is a perfect dry pink – with a heart.
Château Bauduc Bordeaux Blanc 2012 France (12.5%, bauduc.com, £9.33/bottle or £112 plus del/case of 12)
My pick of Gavin Quinney's (pre-hail) wines is his sauvignon blanc, as crisp as a bite of green apple. This has long been a house wine at Gordon Ramsay, also the white I chose to pour at a big family party –and I still like it. From unfashionable Entre Deux Mers, which helps the value. Buying direct is the best way to secure a good deal for you and them.
Finest* Côtes Catalanes Grenache 2012 France (13.5%, Tesco, £5.49 down from £6.99 until Sept 3)
All right, I admit that this one has absolutely nothing to do with hail, it's just a good red wine that, at the discounted price, is almost impossibly cheap. Both Tesco's Côtes Catalanes reds (the other is made from carignan) appear regularly in this column for that reason. This one's soft, smooth, a little bit fiery – redolent of stewed plums and chalk dust.


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Canada Geese Regulations & Community Actions
Federal Regulations
The Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBA) of 1918 gave the Department of the Interior's Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) oversight authority to manage and regulate the harvest of migratory birds in the United States. The MBA consists of four international treaties with Canada, Mexico, Japan, and Russia. This act made it illegal to harvest waterfowl or other migratory birds except during the hunting season or by permit. It prevented the unrestricted egg harvesting and commercial hunting for meat and feathers that was commonplace in the United States in the late 1800's and early 1900's. Initially, the federal government was in complete control of migratory bird management. In 1999, the federal government introduced a special Canada goose permit that was specifically for the management and control of resident Canada geese. Permits were issued to State wildlife management agencies so states and their designated agents could initiate resident Canada geese damage management within the conditions and restrictions of the permit. Control activities, including those intended to either scare geese out of or preclude them from using, a specific area, such as harassment, habitat management, or repellents, do not need a permit.
New rules went into effect in September 2006. The Indiana Division of Fish and Wildlife will still issue permits for agricultural depredation and trapping activities concerning resident Canada geese. However, landowners and managers of public lands can register online directly with the United States Fish and Wildlife Service to receive permission for egg and nest destruction activities. An annual report must be filed by October 31 of the same calendar year the nest and egg destruction was completed, by logging onto the same site and clicking on Report of Activity. If no report is filed, the landowner could be denied permission in future years.
Home Owner Associations and Communities
The information provided in this section is meant to help you organize your community to begin reducing your Canada goose population. Reducing damage caused by Canada geese takes the cooperation of the entire community. It may surprise you, but the first steps do not involve geese.
Step 1: Commitment
Often relying on one technique is not sufficient to observe relief from the damage. Control of geese requires a long term community based approach. If the community makes only a minimal, short term effort, no reduction in damage will likely occur, and your time and money will be wasted.
The ultimate goal is to reduce the number of human/goose conflicts. Each landowner and community will have their own tolerance for and relationship with Canada geese. The challenge is to balance the need for nuisance relief with appropriate respect for wildlife. Because Canada geese may fly from lake to lake within an area, the plan also should include working with neighboring communities and property owners to reduce goose damage and population growth in their areas as well.
Step 2: Take Charge
Although it is important to have a committee for support, one person should be in charge. This person, whether elected or appointed, should:
- have the desire and ability to lead other community members in measures to control geese.
- have the authority and the support of the community to modify the surrounding habitat as needed.
- be well educated on goose management issues.
- be willing to communicate regularly with a qualified wildlife biologist about the latest goose abatement methods.
Step 3: Obtain Community Support
Each person in your community will have a different attitude about the Canada geese in your neighborhood. Be sure that you have the community's support before taking action. As well, your Home Owner's Association Board (HOAB) may be more willing to act if you have documented the community's desire to control the geese. Click here for a petition to circulate in your neighborhood. (in Adobe Acrobat format)
Step 4: Create a Plan of Action
Now that you have the support of the community and the HOAB it is time to create a management plan. This website lists a variety of methods to control goose populations. Goose control can be grouped into three categories: Habitat Modification, Hazing/Harassment, and Hunting. Each community will have to determine the best options for their neighborhood. In some instances the HOAB can relax local bylaws to facilitate the reduction of Canada geese in problem areas. Your Urban Wildlife Biologist can help you decide on a course of action and help determine the best options for your situation.
Remember reducing Canada geese in your area is going to require an integrated and multifaceted approach. There is no one best answer.


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SNMP operations on the Voice MIB not fetching any output
From DocWiki
SNMP operations on the Voice MIB not fetching any output
|Problem Summary
|When doing SNMP GET/Walk operations on the Voice MIB, it is not fetching any output.
|Error Message
|Possible Cause
|The relevant SNMP services may not be running, or there might not be any workflow applications configured on the Unified CCX system yet.
|Recommended Action
| Make sure that the following services are up and running: SNMP Master Agent, Cisco Unified CCX Voice Subagent, Cisco Unified CCX SNMP Java Adapter. If the Cisco Unified CCX SNMP Java Adapter is stopped, start the service. Then start the Cisco Unified CCX Voice Subagent service.
If the issue is still seen, collect all the logs for the services mentioned above using RTMT Trace and Log Central for further investigation.
|Release 8.0(1)
|Associated CDETS #


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The purpose of this blog is to explore cross-cultural Saudi/non-Saudi relationships and their broader Arab-Muslim/Western contexts, as well as the background for improving understanding across these cultures.
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Saudi/non-Saudi Students: Marriage and The Marriage Permission Process--Part I Ellen
As students Ellen of Australia (and of the excellent blog Steadily Emerging with Grace) and M of Saudi (now a student in Australia) approach graduation and a new phase in their relationship, they have agreed to tell their personal stories in order to share their journey, and to gain some guidance from the expertise of readers. Here, in their own words, and with some questions for readers, are Ellen in Part I, and M in Part II.
Ellen's Story
I was born and raised in Western Australia until I was 8. Both of my parents were present until that age, then they separated and my mother moved us (my brother and I) over to NSW which is the other side of the country. It wasn't difficult for me at the time (I don't remember thinking about it that much at that age), but looking back I know that was only because my grandfather became like a father figure to me. He was also the one who gave the stamp of approval for M and I.
I suppose the ethnic and religious identity of my family would be WASPs, Protestant Christians, but none of them, save my grandmother, were practicing. My own religious evolution started when I was about 13 or 14, when I decided to be confirmed into the Anglican Church. This was first and foremost something for my grandmother and then I guess after that I started to really think about my new identity as a Christian. I was fine like that for about 3 years. I was about 17 when I started to study Islam. I never questioned Christianity - I still don't. While now I've come to terms with the fact that it might not be for me, I still don't doubt that it is a religion of truth for many people including some members of my family. I don't know what I'd call myself now. I've incorporated more Islamic practices and beliefs into my life so I don't think I've completed my evolution.
I met M while he was in a home-stay that was run by my mother's friend. I remember trying to catch his eye and then not getting any "signals" so to speak! Then again, before M I had had no experience with guys whatsoever. My birthday was the week after that (he must have heard about it from the host mother) and he bought me some candles. That was probably how we both knew that something was "brewing".
I'm not quite sure how our relationship developed to be honest. After we met, both of us spent time away from each other (I was visiting Western Aus and M was back in Saudi Arabia) so I guess it developed with a lot of phone conversations and MSN! Somehow it did evolve into a committed relationship and we have had an Islamic marriage for almost two years now. That was our only option at the time, as M is a Saudi government scholarship student. We still can't make it fully legal yet as students on a scholarship, as M is, run the high risk of their scholarship being canceled if they marry legally.
I'm very happy we chose to have an Islamic form of marriage, without a full legalization because although the maternal half of my family accepts the idea that this man is my life partner, my father, and his side of the family still find it hard. So going into a legal marriage head on may have really damaged any chances M and I had at getting him and them on our side.
Gosh, hahah. I still have trouble believing that we actually got married. We just had two of M's friends as witnesses and it was in their apartment. I remember thinking "Was that it??", but I checked with scholars and we did it the right way, and that's what matters to me. It was in Sydney so we all went to dinner. My mahr was a ring that I always wear.
Our relationship didn't change at all after marriage to be honest. The only difference then was that I think it became more important for his family to know. Now, I'd say our relationship together has improved for the better. We know each other better.
As for future marriage plans, I know what I'd hope for – two weddings, one here in Australia, and one either in Saudi (insha'Allah) or Bahrain. That would be the ideal for us. Right now we're waiting on the end of year results (as M is supposed to graduate this year) so we'll only know for sure after that whether M will be finished with his studies and scholarship needs.
We are in Australia at the moment, and after I finish my degree (in another 2 years) we will probably move to wherever M gets the best job, whether that's somewhere here or in the Middle East. Seriously considering the option to live in Saudi was a massive decision. When we first entertained the idea, about a year ago, I remember being very optimistic about it. Then M told me about the persecution that Shia Muslims face in Saudi Arabia. That made it difficult to make the decision – if we had children, what would happen to them? Would they go through what M, for example, has been through? After that, I thought a lot more. I think that I really decided that living there was an option after meeting M's family. That took away my doubts.
The meeting with M's family was wonderful. I couldn't have hoped for it to turn out any better! I think M's mum summed it up when she said to a friend of mine: "I used to have two daughters and now I have three". I think that my family suddenly realized that moving to Saudi Arabia was actually a real possibility. Like me, they hadn't realized that that could actually happen. In terms of M and I, there has been a very positive impact. Alhamdulillah his family have accepted me and our relationship, so that has made things between us a lot easier in terms of not carrying any weight on our shoulders!
I guess my own challenges about living in Saudi would be what every woman faces there - getting a job and keeping some sense of independence. I think it would also be a challenge making friends, which is half the reason I visit sites like this blog: because going there thinking "Hey, at least there is a girl who runs a blog who's getting through it" means that I'm not alone.
M and I have discussed various options regarding employment. I am studying Politics at the moment but will also take a certificate in TESOL after my degree so I will hopefully have more options. We have planned for me to begin working from home if I can't find something straightaway. As for the independence, I think that will be okay. Bahrain was our trial run, in a sense, in terms of me taking in the sort of environment I'll be in.
God Willing, we will have children! Raising them, though, that will definitely be a lot harder, as they will have two very different cultures around them. Insha'Allah we will raise them in a family environment, with them having lots of contact with M (as that wasn't something I had with my own father growing up). Insha'Allah they will be raised knowing that they are strong and independent human beings.
I would like to let other couples know that coping with the extended Saudi family won't be that hard if you have his immediate family with you. After all, when you meet the immediate family, they are the ones who will be talking about you to members of the extended family. Their opinion of you matters. BUT it is also not the end of the world if initially, it's a bit hard. Thank God I didn't have that problem when we physically met but I know that in the beginning, it was hard for them to accept us. So it's not abnormal for them to second guess you. I think the most important thing is to take it easy and not to stress. Think about how you'd feel in their situation, but don't forget that you're a good person. Be yourself. Don't pretend to be someone that you're not. If you're not religious, don't pretend to be. If you are, don't over-do it to get them to like you. Just be natural. It's easier said than done, but it's important that the struggles you might face don't take a toll on your relationship.
Questions for Readers
To respect our privacy, I won't say how old M and I are (got to keep some things secret) but neither of us is near the 35 years old "approval" age. We know that being younger than that will probably slow down the marriage permission process a lot, but we're trying to be optimistic. I guess I'd like to ask how old any of the readers were/are when their permission was granted, and how old they were/are when they applied?
Should we start with the Saudi Embassy in Australia?
What main differences can I expect between what I saw of life in Bahrain, and life in the nearby Eastern Province, or the rest of Saudi?
Any other recommendations for Ellen and M on how to best carry out the marriage permission process in their circumstances?
What can they do now to facilitate an eventual transition to life in Saudi Arabia?
Any other comments, thoughts, or similar experiences?
*Ellen and I share a passion for flowers and florals--as is evident on her beautiful blog Steadily Emerging With Grace--as well as an interest in history. I was happy to learn she shared my love of the prints of Pierre-Joseph Redouté (1759-1840), painter and botanist, who is particularly well known for developing the stippling technique that makes these illustrations so nuanced in colour, and for his roses as reproduced here. Redouté was the illustrator for the Royal Gardens of Marie Antoinette; and, unlike her, survived the French Revolution to become a botanical illustrator for the République Française and the Empress Joséphine. He accompanied Napoléon on his expedition to Egypt, where it was Redouté's delightful task to record exotic flora in his exquisite, and exquisitely accurate, style.
Coming next...Part II M's Story!
18 comments:
- angie nader said...
what a nice story....its nice to see how your relationship developed...now i will go read part 2..
p.s thanks for sharing.
...and thanks for posting Chiara
- Saturday, December 12, 2009 8:21:00 PM
- Chiara said...
Angie Nader--Thank YOU! and I am looking forward to your comment on Part II. Ellen and M were a delight to work with on this.
- Saturday, December 12, 2009 9:48:00 PM
- Murtadha said...
what a great story to share and read Chaira. Thank you so much having it in your blog.
as for the first question, the process of getting marriage approval would be easier if M is over 30 years old. however, that doesn't mean that you lose hope. There is always hope as long both of you have the strong commitment to each other.
One of my friend have gained the marriage permission from the government by providing the government papers proving that he has a health problem. The government allow some Saudi under some condition (like health problem) to have an Exception and marry whoever they want from outside.
That is what I know from my friends. However, I will try to get more facts and info about this so it can help you in your marriage approval process.
Oh one another point I forgot to say, you should start saving money from now, because you may need to use Wasta in order to get the marriage permission from the gov if all the other options don't work out!. The wasta means paying an official in the gov to make an exception for your case. I have seen many people who have done it and it works with them !
as for your second question about the differences between Saudi and Bahrain. The differences are huge. Bahrain is very open country for foreigners and you aren't forced there to wear the hijab or follow specific religion, while Saudi arabic is very closed country, rarely you see foreign people there and you have to follow the religious instruction in Saudi otherwise you will be in trouble. women can drive in Bahrain while they don't in Saudi. I don't know about the economy and job potential in Bahrain but I think u should easily find a job in teaching english. I really really think Bahrain is great choice for you to live and work and even if your husband works in Saudi, both of you can easily see each other because Bahrain is close to Saudi. If your husband lives in Alqatif or Alhassa (the two shia cities in Saudi) then it is only couple of hours of driving.
My advice for you: plan ahead, make as many friends as you possibly can from Bahrain and Saudi. Friendship is valued so so much there and it can help you so much in adjusting your life.
My last point here is: marriage permission isn't as important as marriage itself. Never lose hope. As long you love each, and made the commitment to be with each other, then everything will take care of itself.
My grandfather always tells me that when a man falls in love with a woman and marry her for the sake of love, Allah will take care of everything in their life and make the an easier and joyful path for both of them.
apparently I realized that he is telling me that in attempt to convince me to get married soon lol
Many of my friends told me it is true statement but I can't confirm it... because I am not married yet lol
I wish both of you best luck in the most enjoyable journey of your life!
- Monday, December 28, 2009 4:12:00 AM
- Chiara said...
Murtahda--thank you for your wonderfully comprehensive and sensitive comment on this! You obviously have knowledge of the region, and have offered good advice and things to think about to Ellen and M. I think that your comment about building friendships in Saudi and Bahrain now is a particularly wise one that gets left out. Friends can help smooth transitions, and give meaning living anywhere.
Your grandfather sounds like a wonderful man. He also sounds like one who wants the best for you, ie now that you are graduating a nice wife and a nice life in Saudi! LOL :) Grandfathers can be very powerful influences as you know, and yours sounds like one with advice worth following--later! LOL :)
- Tuesday, December 29, 2009 6:03:00 PM
Regarding the first question.
You would be wise to disclose your Islamic marriage to the Saudi Embassy in Australia, however, that would be best after your Husband has graduated and had his certificate verified and accepted by the Minsitry of Higher Education. You will be asked to disclose lots of information, give them whatever they will deem necessary. How it proceeds then is dependent on them, however in your case, it will be a bit sketchy, as you have never been to Saudi Arabia and will not know if you are serious in residing there and making it your future home. Also you were never born or raised there, so expect it to also be a sticking point with them.
Having said that, this allows the second question to be answered quite easily, you have been to Bahrain to meet your Husbands family, and I'm sure you found it alot more relaxed and to your liking, and its not as if its a million miles away from Qatif, your Husbands family can visit you on the weekend if the permission is not forthcoming, and it has a majority Shia populace, so doubtful any discrimination will be present, and lets not forget you would be able to drive and not cover your head if you so desire. As for the discrimination in the country as a whole towards Shia people, its true. But as a proud Eastern Province resident myself I can say that its not present within the people of the region themselves, its purely prejudice of the newly arrived from certain parts of the country best left unmentioned. I've friends of the Shia branch of Islam and several are more than family, so to disparage them would be the same as disparaging me, times have changed here in the Eastern Province. I honestly wish you both the best of luck and that things move well for you both.
December 2, 2009 11:40 AM
- Monday, January 18, 2010 8:52:00 AM
- Chiara said...
Aziz--thank you for your wise advice to Ellen. I would only add that one should plan for a long process and intermediary stages, while developing more knowledge about language and culture that would be useful in Saudi, and contacts there as well, including more family meetings. In the meantime the 2 years in Australia to finish a degree, and perhaps an initial move to Bahrain would make sense.
I recently spoke to a Palestinian Jordanian whose cousin married a Saudi, and she had little difficulty getting the permission, Iqama, and citizenship. That seems to favour the idea that Arab Muslims have an easier time of the process, because there is greater evidence that they will adapt better culturally, and pose fewer international problems for the Saudi Government if the marriage does end. However,there may have been other factors involved in the facilitation. LOL :)
I do hope others will share their views, suggestions, and experiences to give Ellen and M more information to work from in their decision-making process.
December 2, 2009 7:38 PM
- Monday, January 18, 2010 8:53:00 AM
- Chiara said...
One other thought, when I married Islamically and legally in Morocco, no mahrem was required. I did have a notorized, officially translated (to French and Arabic) letter from my father giving his consent to my marrying that specific Moroccan (DOB, place of birth, National ID no. as well as name), but it wasn't required. It did reassure the adoul who were hesitant because we were marrying outside my hub's city of birth and residence (long story). The letter remains in the archives of our paperwork odyssey (though not nearly as odyssean as that of the Saudi permission process).
It seems from the comments on other posts that the mahrem's presence and approval are less rigorously required outside the Gulf. We know others who had their French marriage approved Islamically in Morocco by having 12 Moroccan men testify that they were man and wife.
So Ellen and M may or may not have to do something more about their Islamic marriage, it seems to me.
Perhaps others will comment on this aspect as well.
December 2, 2009 7:48 PM
- Monday, January 18, 2010 8:54:00 AM
I was just a little over 23yrs old when my brother started the permission process with the Ministry of Interiors. I got the approval abt a yr later when I was 24. My brother did mention tht age was an issue but I think it applies more for the woman than the man. Saudi women are supposed to marry early on and so anyone over a certain age might be considered a spinster and somehow the govt would be more willing to let her marry a foreigner. Or so I was told.
Good luck to you Ellen and your husband. It's a very trying and tiring process to embark on but God-willing it will have a happy ending.
December 2, 2009 10:40 PM
- Monday, January 18, 2010 8:54:00 AM
- Chiara said...
Nadia--Thank you for your comment and sharing your experience. For clarification, you are Saudi and your husband is? Was getting an Iqama for him a problem?
December 3, 2009 12:21 AM
- Monday, January 18, 2010 8:54:00 AM
Wonderful story!
I am just surprised to know that students on scholarships are not allowed to get marreid! This is really unfair and I can't see the reasoning behind it.
As for moving to Saudi Arabia, Ellen, if you decide to live in Jeddah, you will surly have better and more job opportunites, especially if you choose to teach English. We are dying to find good English teachers :)
Regarding the Saudis treatment of Shia, I know they are not liked here, but I've never seen any shiite treated badly. In fact, I have a Lebanese friend who is a Shiite and we're fine together as long as we don't discuss religion...we actually never brought up such a topic..
Also, my father (who lives in Makkah) has been renting his house for about 8 years now to a Shia group and the group's coordinator is a very respectable man and he feels very happy dealing with my father and brothers all those years.
Ellen, I wish you the best, and if you come to Jeddah, I'll be your friend, so don't worry :)
December 3, 2009 3:35 AM
- Monday, January 18, 2010 8:55:00 AM
Chiara - The post looks beautiful, especially with all the flowers!
Aziz - The verification of his degree is the annoying part, hahah. I wish we could get it done in a second but again it's something more that will take time. And yes I definitely agree with you - the people of the EP, as M has told me, are lovely. It's just in terms of the government and some jobs that I personally feel that Shias are discriminated in. But knowing that the actual people in the area we'd be in support us makes that easier.
Chiara - Yes, the move to Bahrain was definitely one we're thinking about! It seems easier to live there until the approval is (hopefully!) granted as I would imagine that the Bahraini government would recognise our marriage and hopefully that would make it somewhat easier. And yeah we need to more in regards to the marriage - as in it's an Islamic one at the moment, not a legal one. Making is legal is important to me (considering I'm not Muslim) so that's definitely something we're trying to figure out how to do haha.
Nadia - I'm happy to hear that it only took you a year because I thought it might be harder for women to get the permission. InshaAllah our process will go well too!
Maha - Me neither :( And yes Jeddah is a beautiful city! I can't see us moving there because M's family's house is in the EP but it'd be a lovely place to live. Jeddah to me seems much more multicultural as well. And that's wonderful about your father! MashaAllah.
I'm happy to have a friend already ;)
December 3, 2009 5:13 AM
- Monday, January 18, 2010 8:56:00 AM
- Chiara said...
Ellen--I am glad you like the way the post looks, and thanks for commenting.
Eventually moving to Bahrain might be a confirmation that you are willing and able to adapt to living in an Arab Muslim culture.
Systemic discrimination like the one you are describing against Shias is truly awful, but knowing that individuals are more accepting must be a relief.
If you were to marry either legally in Australia, or legally in an Islamic country (where it would automatically be an Islamic marriage at the same time) that should cover both religion and the law. Being a Daughter of the Book meant for me only that I had to have a Christian man represent me (not my father as it turned out because of travel issues) to ensure my rights were respected and speak on my behalf. Not easy to find a Christian man on short notice in Morocco! LOL :)
Unlike my husband I was not required to repeat an Islamic prayer, nor was anything mentioned about converting. The marriage contract indicates that I am Catholic (they assumed so) and that the children would be raised Muslim, which is non-negotiable, but we had discussed and agreed on that anyway. I have no problems with that as long as they are knowledgeable about and respectful of Christianity. It shouldn't be a problem since the hub and his siblings were all educated by the nuns ages 3-6 LOL :)
Hmmm must get Coolred commenting on life in Bahrain as she spent 20+ years living there! LOL :)
December 4, 2009 11:03 PM
- Monday, January 18, 2010 8:57:00 AM
Dear M. first of all are you planning to get you degree, because if you're willing to, believe me then you will not have any problem in getting the suitable job you want anywhere in the world, however I get to since that the issue is your attachment to you family and your people(culture), and this is coming amongst people of Qatif despite their life style I think, so if I have to put myself in your shoes, my first options would be working for Saudi ARAMCO or Juabyl Industrial City, I'm sure you are familiar with those 2, in regards of so many factors one of them that you only have experienced the first impression from your family side and that is regarding the way you and your wife want to live your life and how you want to raise your kids, you have given what you think and hope for in that matter but fact will present itself indeed, considering all ethical & religious criteria's, and the interference you would face from family side and/or society, my second choice would be Bahrain, unless you can bare the distance and Conceder livingin Australia where you seem have no problem in doing so based on you ideology you have presented in your story, don't get me wrong, I'm not trying to make it hard on you but you have to be prepared for the challenge you might face, and yes walli or mahram is one of the basics requirements however considering some circumstances "Aurf" sometimes apply, as long you did your best in asking to do it right IA.
As of the way to approach you marriage permission, well from my experience, although there is no certain order applies here, the main rules are;
1- No marriage before permission ( not an obstacle).
2- Age should be 45 and above, exceptions: if you're handy capped, some restriction keeping you from marrying a Saudi, and if you are divorced from one.
However your already married, so it gets easier when you have your first child, so the mistakes you will need to avoid is NOT acquiring marriage certificate from Australia- after graduation that is- and you must authenticate it from Saudi Embassy, then ministry of exterior here in Saudi, only then you can approach ministry of interior, Private Affairs Dept. and complete all requested Doc. they ask you for and the rest depends on your luck on how long it will take, yet Insha'Allah you will get it in the end, I hope this would be a for the benefit, and wish you both all the best.
December 6, 2009 12:44 AM
- Monday, January 18, 2010 8:58:00 AM
- Chiara said...
Silver Tone--Welcome, and thank you for your comment, and suggestions.
You made some helpful suggestions about where to work and live in Saudi after M completes his degree, and Ellen hers; and, gave some good warnings about the impact of living close by family.
While it is true that for persons deemed less marriageable the permission is easier, I think the advice you gave in this regard about being sure to have things cleared with the Saudi Embassy in Australia first, and then proceed through the other steps is the most applicable to Ellen and M's situation.
I am sure they appreciate your good wishes.
I hope you will read more in Part II, and comment there as well, and on newer and older posts that may interest you. Thanks again for your comment.
December 6, 2009 4:58 AM
- Monday, January 18, 2010 8:59:00 AM
Mashallah thank you for this. I am much earlier in the process than Ellen and M. I am Australian, and he is Saudi. I am Muslim. We have approval from both of our families (which for us was the most important thing), which was surprisingly easy to get from his father. He agreed the first time it was mentioned, much to our surprise. The legal part is the issue now though. We know about the issues with the scholarship, and don't mind waiting until he graduates. I was wondering about two things:
1. his family has a genetically inherited disease, which he does not have himself, but his other brothers do, and one sister. I read what has been said above about more leniancy for health conditions. Will this hold any weight that there is a genetic disease through his family?
2. I also read about the 35 and over age limit for the man. Is there any way around this?
3. Is an Islamic marriage enough to be able to visit his family in Saudi? I have met some here, but we would like for me to meet all of them. Is there a way to do this?
Our plan now, since we have gained the agreement of both our families, is to first speak to the saudi embassy to see what we need to do. We are currently keeping everything a secret, due to what friends will think if we are not married and together. Once we have spoken to the embassy and have the plan clear, perhaps we will make an Islamic marriage to make things easier for us, but we would like for me to make that with his family.
Finally, I know i probably shouldn't ask about this, but sometimes we have to find alternative methods. What exactly is the deal with wasta?
Thanks again everyone, it helps reading that others are going through this, and knowing that if they can get through it I can too.
- Friday, April 29, 2011 12:59:00 PM
- Chiara said...
Anonymous--thank you very much for your comment. My apologies for the delay in replying.
First, congratulations on having both families' permission. That can for some be the greatest hurdle.
Second, I would be cautious about approaching the Saudi Embassy since he is on scholarship. Most embassies like to stay on top of "eventualities". For example, as soon as we asked the Canadian Embassy in Morocco about how to go about getting married, they put the hub on a list to block him from getting any visa, even a tourist visa which he had had before. I'm not sure about the Saudi Embassy but perhaps others would know how risky it is to hint at any intention to marry while on the scholarship. It seems that Aziz commenting above, whom I know has a lot of knowledge about this, was saying not to disclose even an Islamic marriage, so a general cautionary note.
Third, I do know others who have received permission without the man being 35 so I think it can depend on other factors as well.
I know less about which illnesses would qualify as giving greater hope for permission, but perhaps others will.
Fifth-an Islamic marriage would not be sufficient for you to visit Saudi together as a couple. Only a marriage approved by the Saudi government is considered a legal marriage. You could meet other family members in a nearby country, like one of the other Gulf States, or Middle Eastern countries, for example. You might also get a different type of visa but then you would not be able to behave as a couple, and certainly not to be alone together in private or in public. As punishment for this would be severe it is not worth the risk,
Finally, wasta can help, but generally a very thorough adherence to procedures is necessary. Certainly having family onside is a great help, just in negotiating the process, and sometimes a family member knows someone who knows someone, etc. Some have found writing to the governing Prince and getting a letter of support to be helpful.
I would strongly encourage you to check the other stories under the category Marriage Permission/ Visa/ Iqama in the sidebar, and Personal Stories for more information and insights including in the comments.
Also, if you are willing, doing your own post here would make sure that people saw your questions and elicit more answers. Check the page under the opening banner called Personal Stories for more details, and the Personal Stories category for more examples. I would certainly help you with it.
BTW Ellen converted to Islam, and they married legally and Islamically in Australia. They still don't have the marriage permission from the Saudi government, and have been living a long distance relationship since M graduated and had to return to Saudi. Bahrain has remained a meeting place for them and for family. M just received his visa to be able to return to live and work in Australia. M and Ellen have an online business selling Islamic clothing. More information and updates are available on Ellen's blog which is still at the same link as in the post.
I look forward to hearing from you here or about the post at the blog email address chezchiara2 AT yahoo DOT com.
All the best!
- Saturday, April 30, 2011 7:27:00 PM
- Chiara said...
PS I fixed the blog link at the opening of my post, so you should be able to link easily to Ellen's blog.
- Saturday, April 30, 2011 8:27:00 PM
An extremely stupid move to marry a Muslim/Arab. The true face of Islam will be known after she goes to SA. She should have read "Not Without My Daughter" before making this ill-advised move.
- Monday, April 28, 2014 8:42:00 AM


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