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NEWPORT BEACH — Newport Harbor High boys' water polo Coach Robert Lynn said he loved the back-and-forth nature of Tuesday's game against Long Beach Wilson.
The teams traded goals, field blocks and big saves for the duration.
"I liked that game," Lynn said. "Even if we would have lost, I'd tell you the same thing. I wish we had that game every week for 10 months in a row. It's only going to help us get better."
Of course, Lynn also liked that the Sailors were able to come out with the victory.
Newport Harbor senior Curtis Fink scored the game-winning goal with 1:05 left to lift the Sailors past the Bruins, 10-9, in the nonleague match at Newport Harbor High.
Lynn, a Long Beach resident who coached many of the Wilson players as they grew up in youth water polo, said he told Wilson senior Jackson Kimbell after the game that he wouldn't be surprised to see the Bruins, last year's CIF Southern Section Division 2 champions, in the Division 1 final.
"Those guys are talented kids," Lynn said. "They've got the makings right there. Jackson's a very strong kid, and Maxwell [Irving] is a very disciplined, good, creative shooter. We knew it was going to be difficult for us. This is our first real challenge."
Kimbell and Irving played with Newport Beach Water Polo Club over the summer, helping the club get a bronze medal in the 18-and-under division at the USA Water Polo Junior Olympics. On Tuesday, they almost helped hand the Sailors (2-0), ranked No. 2 in Division 1, their first loss of the season.
Wilson, ranked No. 6 in Division 1, led for much of the match. The Bruins (0-1) got three first-quarter goals from Kimbell, and had a 7-5 halftime advantage.
But Newport Harbor used some good offense and standout play by senior goalie Wyatt Muller (nine saves) to rally back. Muller, who has been battling leg tendinitis and didn't play in last week's season opener against Foothill, blocked Kimbell's penalty shot early in the third quarter that would have given Wilson an 8-5 edge.
"Big momentum swing," Lynn said. "Jackson Kimbell comes up to the plate, 240 pounds coming at you, right? And Wyatt just blocked the heck out of it. He had such a good block, and it motivated everyone."
Senior defender Dan Stevens also got going offensively. He fired one into the near corner from the right wing to bring Newport within a goal. Then, after senior center Andrew Silvers drew a five-meter penalty shot, Stevens put it away to knot the score at 7-7 with 2:58 left in the third quarter.
Senior Preston Lee then had a steal at mid-tank, feeding Ryan Warde for a counterattack goal that gave the Sailors their first lead of the half.
They didn't keep it, despite another penalty shot attempt from Irving that hit off the right post. Wilson eventually tied the score on a six-on-five strike from Irving with 4:35 left in the game. Just more than two minutes later, Irving scored on a shot from five meters, and Wilson had regained the lead.
But Stevens scored from the outside into the upper-right corner with two minutes remaining. The Sailors got the ball back after a timeout, and Fink gave them the lead with a strong move at two meters.
"We really wanted to come back," Stevens said. "We're focused on a championship, so when we're down like that, we need to come back with championship intensity and really focus on the ultimate goal."
Muller again stepped up at the end, blocking Irving's shot. A follow-up attempt from the left by Jake Davis went off the bar, and Newport Harbor was able to run out the clock.
"[Muller] played phenomenally, especially in the second half," Stevens said. "That really fired me up. I love good defense, you know?"
Stevens scored three goals for Newport Harbor, while Fink and Mitch Mendoza had two each. Lee and Silvers also scored, and Lee led all players with three steals.
Kimbell had the three goals, but Stevens helped hold him scoreless after the first quarter. Irving and junior Murphy Slater had two goals each for Wilson, which appears to be a Division 1 contender. Coach Tony Martinho said he is "elated" that the Bruins are back in Division 1.
"I don't know how else to explain it," Martinho said. "We kind of always felt like we belonged there."
Nobody who saw Tuesday's contest would argue. The Sailors have another difficult task in their next game, when they play host to San Diego Section powerhouse Coronado on Saturday evening.
"Coronado's not going to be a joke," Lynn said. "That's going to be another down-to-the-wire [game], I feel. But I'm excited for those things."
Twitter: @mjszabo


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Here is the kid who never stood a chance. People called him "Trey", or "Slim"
Here is "Trey's"
Sperm Donor Father ….
Here is the Tray's Daddy before his tat's were cleaned up by a hired media image consultant:
Here is what happens after the media consultant tells you the financial reward can be better if you improve your image:
It's easier to fleece the sheep, and load up the trash cans….. if they think you are actually a Father to the dead young chap.
Here is how the Sperm Donor lied to Florida Law Enforcement:
Here is the actual truth of how Trayvon Got to Sanford in his own words (and Guns, and Weed) and…. :
Obviously Tracy "Sperm Donor" Martin finds it easy to tell the police lies….
What's that they say about….. Apples and Trees !
Yesterday: Father Of Trayvon Martin Calls Zimmerman Supporter A "Motherfucker" in Court…

subset: commoncrawl


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When you get into shooting one of the things you have to think about is ammo storage and ammo transport. Before I started shooting more than once or twice a year on my own I would just head to the store buy the ammo I wanted to shoot and keep it in the store bag until I got to the range.
If I didn't shoot up all my ammo, the leftover loose ammo would just get thrown in my range bag and I'd be on my merry way. Now that I shoot more, I have bulk ammo that I buy months before a range day and keep it locked up in storage until I need it.
I have seen people use everything from plastic bags to cardboard boxes to ammo cans to 10 gallon Rubbermaid containers filled with loose .223 as storage. But in my opinion, one of the best and most common loose ammo containers is the ammo can.
Army surplus stores use to sell them on the cheap for under $5 for a .50 BMG can. Not to depress anyone reading this but 10 years ago when wolf ammo was $45 for 500 rounds of 7.62x39mm they even sold them to you in .30 caliber ammo cans.
Now we are seeing them for about $10-$20 per can for metal or plastic cans.
There are two types of cans. The metal "Army Surplus" cans and the plastic ammo storage cans. Both have their place but they also have their own downfalls. When I started Gearsofguns.com I was using the plastic cans which worked fine for a few months but the weight would get to them and break the handles. I switched over to the metal cans which are clearly harder to "break". I like the plastics for the simple reason that they can't rust or corrode and destroy the ammo. So, as I said each have their pros and cons.
If you are looking at ammo storage and thinking about ammo cans something you need of be mindful of is moisture. I have parents who take vitamins and most of the vitamins come with little desiccant packs. I have asked them to save them for me. I just fill my ammo cans with about 1 or 2 boxes of ammo and throw in one or two desiccant packs between the layers of ammo to keep my ammo dry and fresh.
If you are more of the hobby type you can go to your local hobby store and pick up silica gel beads used for drying flowers. Fill coffee filters with the silica gel with just enough to be able to close and staple the filler shut. Just keep one on top of your ammo under the sealed lid.


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Nov 2014
Privacygrade.org is our web site analyzing the privacy of a million Android smartphone apps. So far, it has received press coverage from CNN, ITWorld, Pittsburgh Business Times, Forbes, Campus Technology, WESA radio, IEEE Spectrum, Heise Online, Toronto Sun, and more.
Feb 2014
"[A] team at Carnegie Mellon University has been looking at how to use smartphone data to predict the onset of depression by modelling changes in sleep behaviours and social relationships over time. In another example, the Livehoods project, large quantities of geotagged data created by people's smartphones (using software such as Instagram and Foursquare) and crawled from the Web have allowed researchers to understand the patterns of movement through urban spaces."
Feb 2014
Our team has a paper presented at USEC 2014 on how developers deal with privacy and security issues when creating apps. See the full paper here.
Dec 2012
Jason Hong was recently interviewed on CBS Morning Show about smartphone app privacy, talking about several surprising behaviors about these apps.


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Written and directed by Academy Award nominee Damien Chazelle (WHIPLASH), LA LA LAND tells the story of Mia (Emma Stone), an aspiring actress, and Sebastian (Ryan Gosling), a dedicated jazz musician, who are struggling to make ends meet in a city known for crushing hopes and breaking hearts. Set in modern-day Los Angeles, this original musical about everyday life explores the joy and pain of pursuing your dreams. "Every once in a while, you come out of a movie theater feeling like you're walking on air. It doesn't happen often, but when it does, it restores your faith in the power of cinema. Damien Chazelle's dreamy neo-retro musical LA LA LAND is one of those rare films." - Chris Nashawaty, Entertainment Weekly
Tim (Jake Johnson) and Lee (Rosemarie DeWitt) are housesitting when Tim unearths a gun and a bone in the backyard, a discovery that sends the husband and wife in separate directions. This droll and insightful marital drama features a great cast including Sam Rockwell, Orlando Bloom and Brie Larson. "Joe Swanberg's starriest picture is a lovely slice of everything and nothing disguised as a murder mystery." - Ben Kenigsberg, Variety
Matt Damon and "The Office"'s John Krasinski penned the screenplay (based on a story by Dave Eggers) and star as two men on opposite sides of a hot button issue when big business comes to a small town. Damon and Frances McDormand represent a natural gas company and see their offer for drilling rights as an economic lifeline to a rural community in decline, but locals Krasinski, Hal Holbrook and Rosemarie DeWitt object to the plan. While the topic of "fracking" gives PROMISED LAND an up-to-the-minute urgency, the drama of people whose best intentions nonetheless put them at odds is timeless.
more info
General Admission$12.00(unless otherwise noted)
Cinematheque Members $8.00
Seniors 65+ andStudents with valid ID


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Early Intervention
How Canada's Social Programs Can Work Better, Save Lives, and Often Save MoneyBook - 2015
Governments and social agencies tackle the toughest social problems their citizens face -- poverty, homelessness, mental and physical illness, violence, abuse, and more. Yet these problems persist in Canada -- in many cases, they are worsening -- and the costs of the social safety net continue to rise.
New approaches have been developed by innovators frustrated by the failure of traditional programs and policies, in Canada and internationally. Many of the most promising new approaches use a strategy of early intervention -- identifying and tackling problems without delay. Regardless of the problem, innovative, well-designed programs based on early intervention have generated better results for the individuals involved and for society as a whole. Often, the associated costs to government have been reduced.
In Early Intervention James Hughes showcases the best of these innovative approaches. He provides representative real-life case histories of Canadian beneficiaries of this new thinking and presents the findings of researchers who have compared the outcomes of newapproaches with traditional ones.
Putting the social safety net into place was one of Canada's great achievements in the 20th century. Revamping those programs so they make a greater contribution to the quality of life of all Canadians is the challenge for the early 21st century. In this book, James Hughes shows howthis can be done. He provides the background information needed by anyone who wants to help reform and improve Canadian social policy.
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The Experience
Find a little piece of Middle Eastern coastal perfection and make it your own for as long or as little as you wish...a weekend, a week a fortnight? However much or little time you spend at the luxurious Meridien Al Aqah in Fujairah you'll come back home fully relaxed and refreshed. Bask on golden shores and make the most of a luxury retreat catering for everyone in the family, with a fabulous kids club, amazing diving opportunities that include night and wreck diving excursions and the finest cuisine from all around the world. What are you waiting for? At this price there should be no hesitation or limitation to get you to paradise!
- Under 12 year olds stay free
- Excellent facilities for kids and teens
- Wonderful beachside location
Included flights
UK Departure
- Departs: london
- Arrives: dubai, United Arab Emirates
Return Flight
- Departs: dubai, United Arab Emirates
- Arrives: london
Le Meridien Al Aqah Beach Resort
- Classic Sea View
- All Inclusive
- Wonderful beachside location with beautiful mountain backdrop
- excellent facilities for kids and teens and under 12 year olds stay free
- Fine selection of restaurants and bars and shuttle to Dubai
Le Meridien Al Aqah Beach Resort is nestled between the dramatic Hajar Mountains and the blue waters of the Gulf of Oman in the picturesque emirate of Fujairah. Located on a private stretch of the secluded Al Aqah Beach this resort blends Ararbian cultural influences with contemporary luxury. The resort's excellent facilities include large outdoor pools, fitness and spa facilities, exciting water sports and scuba diving excursions. The Le Meridien Al Aqah Beach Resort offers seclusion and privacy along with outstanding service.
Please note: The main swimming pool will be closed from 15-25th June 2019
Enjoyed as much as last time.
Claire Macgregor Fairlie reviewing Le Meridien Al Aqah Beach Resort (21-Dec-2017)
£1249 per person
Your holidays include:
- Flight
- Accommodation
- Transfers
- Representation Services


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The global GFF governance arrangements are focused exclusively on the GFF's core mandate of supporting smart, scaled, and sustainable financing to achieve RMNCAH results at country level, both through the broader facility and the GFF Trust Fund. They also support the GFF's role as a pathfinder around financing for development (including with regard to domestic resource mobilization) and so will evolve in light of developments with regard to the SDGs and the updated Global Strategy for Women's, Children's, and Adolescents' Health. GFF governance is a lean mechanism that is designed to strengthen coordination between key investors so as to facilitate complementary financing of Investment Cases at country-level. This provides global support to the discussions around complementary financing that occur through the country platform.
The GFF governance handles two discrete functions:
Ensuring that the GFF succeeds in mobilizing complementary financing for Investment Cases and health financing strategies in GFF countries
Ensuring that the GFF Trust Fund uses its resources to provide financing in ways that achieve results while being catalytic and driving sustainability.
Investors Group
Trust Fund Committee


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The Red, White, and Aqua Quilt top is finished!
I really like the pieced scrappy border.
And since all the leftover fabric was lying about,
I decided to piece together a backing for this quilt.
I even made bias binding!
So here it is, backing, top and binding, waiting to be quilted....
(I haven't even made any other blocks yet today!
I guess I was anticipating the finish! )
I guess I was anticipating the finish! )


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Thermonet EZ 150W/m² Underfloor Heating Kit 115016T with Programmable Thermostat 5220A (8m²)
Thermonet is a versatile electric underfloor heating mat system designed for easy installation under a range of floor finishes. Thermonet is commonly installed under tiled floors. Many people don't realise that you can also bring the warm feeling to an engineered timber, vinyl and even a carpet floor by including a layer of flexible self levelling compound in your floor build up.
- Lifetime Warranty. We are so confident of the quality of Thermonet Underfloor Heating that we give each system a warranty that lasts a Lifetime with 3 year warranty on our Thermostats.
- TwistedTwin cable construction. The unique stress free cable construction creates a longer lasting heating cable with zero electromagnetic field (Zero EMF).
- Full self adhesive mesh. The self adhesive mesh speeds up installation by holding Thermonet matting to the substrate for easy self levelling and tile fixing.
- Heating cable protection. Thermonet is installed wire-side-down which means the heating cable is protected from damage during installation by the hard wearing mesh layer.
- Low profile cold tail. Utilising innovative extrusion processes provides real 'lay flat' technology that makes installing Thermonet easy. The cold tail is only 4mm thick and is typically concealed within the tile adhesive layer.
Supplier - THERMOGROUP
Product Number - 115016T
Output - 1200 Volts
Resistance - 44 Ohms
Max Temperature - 28 degrees celsius
Thermostat - Thermotouch 7.3iG Glass Programmable Thermostat (5220A)
Area - 8m²
Warranty - Lifetime
Choose a currency below to display product prices in the selected currency.


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Good Morning from the breakfast table! A long lazy weekend feast or a quickie before you rush out and seize the day. Breakfast really sets you up for the day. I have to admit I'm not a big breakfast eater unless I'm in a hotel or later in the day, so it has to taste good and it has to be nutritious.
With kids in school I'm obsessed with giving them a healthy start as I have no idea what they will be eating during the day.
Below are a few of my favorite breakfast recipes. They work equally well for a long lazy weekend feast as a quick breakfast on the go (with some prep).
My first tip because the kids love it is SPROUTED & DEHYDRATED GRANOLA. Gluten and nut free and vegan. A refreshing start to the day! You'll find the recipe here (click!)
This Orange Chia Breakfast is so juicy! Recipe here (click)
Strawberry Bircher! Easy to prepp the night before and so summery and filling at the same time! Recipe here (click!)
Who doesn't love chocolate and raspberries! This is always a hit and no one suspects they are eating avocado 😉 Recipe here (click!)
Caramel Flavored and light. A mix of carob, chia and banana. Yum yum!
Recipe here (click!)
For more Breakfast Recipes like vegan raspberry and vanilla yoghurt and coconut porrige with apple go to categories under breakfast here (click!)
What is our favorite breakfast?


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Ahab - The Beast
Previous / Next
Over 30 years ago, Audi pioneered permanent four-wheel drive with Audi Quattro®. Today it's the world's top selling AWD system. But sadly for one tormented soul, its legacy is more a source of humiliation than celebration. Inspired by one of the all-time classics in American literature, Audi re-imagines Herman Melville's epic struggle between obsessed sea captain and elusive white whale to bring the legend of Quattro® to life.
AUDI AHAB CREDITS CLIENT NAME: Audi of North America BRAND: Audi SPOT NAME: Ahab AIR DATE: 1/14/11 AGENCY: Venables Bell & Partners EXECUTIVE CREATIVE DIRECTOR: Paul Venables and Will McGinness CREATIVE DIRECTOR: Tyler Hampton and Erich Pfeifer ART DIRECTOR: Matt Miller COPYWRITER: Matt Keats DIRECTOR OF INTEGRATED PRODUCTION: Craig Allen AGENCY PRODUCER: Joyce Chen PRODUCTION COMPANY: Epoch Films DIRECTOR: Daniel Kleinman DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY: Toby Irwin EXECUTIVE PRODUCER: Lisa Margulis PRODUCER: Jennifer Barrons EDITING COMPANY: Cut + Run EDITOR: Steve Gandolfi ASST EDITOR: Sean Stender EDITORIAL EXECUTIVE PRODUCER: Michelle Burke EDITORIAL PRODUCER: Christie Price SOUND DESIGN: 740 Sound Design SOUND DESIGN EXECUTIVE PRODUCER: Scott Ganary SOUND DESIGNERS: Eddie Kim, Rommel Molina, Andrew Tracy MUSIC: Original composition by Human MIX: Loren Silber at Lime VFX: The Mill VFX PRODUCER: Adam Reeb VFX Flame Op: Gareth Parr COLORIST: Sean Coleman at Company 3


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Not only did the city of Austin approve a 3rd day of Fun this year, but the people over at FFF6 tacked on an extra 30 or so Nite shows…for free. As if a couple days of ear, liver and brain abuse wasn't enough, this year is going take a whole new level of stamina. And as if to prove to myself I can still party like it's 1997, I decided to start my Fun Fun Fun experience with a 'heavier than thou' metal bill at Red 7.
To describe this band as sludge or stoner metal would do them a great disservice. Sure, there are the obvious Sabbath riffs and there are times they bring to mind those Southern masters in Mastodon, Kylesa and Crowbar, but there is also a punk rock attitude going on here. These guys don't wallow in the haze, this isn't music to smoke a joint and casually bang you hang to — you need to stay on guard, because when they decide to put the pedal to the metal, these guys will decimate anything in their way. To be honest, I'm not a huge fan of their new album, out now on Tee Pee, but seeing these guys live was a great start to the night, and the political Low Brow was a highlight. 'Sit in parks all you want, but the only way to change shit is through violence…I'm not saying kill anyone, but…' The crowd at Red 7 wasn't in the mood for violence, failing to even get a pit going, but The Fucking Wrath did their job of setting the set for Hull, as band they promised would 'blow your eyeballs out of your butthole'.
Hull are an interesting act from Brooklyn. Five dudes lined up in a row — 3 guitars, bass and drums all front and center. Long-haired and tattooed, short haired and clean cut, curly hair and striped sweater — only in Brooklyn would you find a band like this. But all aesthetics aside, what these guys are doing is truly unique. After a short soundcheck, the assault began. A wall of guitar, dual and sometimes triple growl, and a drummer with inhuman abilities. The blur of drum sticks, the vibrations through my skull and the fucked up time signatures kept me off balance throughout their 40 minute set, but it also kept me interested. No matter how difficult these extremely progressive tracks were to wrap my head around, I couldn't walk away. The Matt Pike influence was obvious, but this was Pike on speed or LSD. This is another band that I find difficult on record, but even the 15 minute epic Earth From Water kept my eyes glued to this bizarre collection of people on stage — and I continued to bang my head just slightly out of step with the bizarre transitions. Thankfully my eyeballs were still in tact after their set, but Hull definitely made an impression.
Toxic Holocaust
Joel Grind looks like such a nice kid. He has been performing as Toxic Holocaust for well over a decade now, yet he still looks like a teenager. But don't let that blonde hair and babyface fool you, when Grind picks up the guitar and starts spewing anti-religious blackened thrash through the mic, there is no doubt that looks are deceiving. This year's excellent Conjure and Command was the first I'd heard of Toxic Holocaust, and it is the first album where Grind recorded with a true band instead of taking on everything himself, as he had done in the past. The three piece on stage last night were tight as hell, and although the set was a little short for my taste, Toxic Holocaust lived up to my lofty expectations. I was as excited to see this band as any other, Nites or otherwise. Taking the stage a half past midnight, it didn't take long for the Portland based band to heat things up on an extremely cold Austin night. Not asking for, but demanding a pit, Grind got things started with Metal Attack and then covered the past decade in a 12 song set. Each track with its own dedication. 'to the metal punks…for all the emo motherfuckers…for all the bands tonight…to all you scumbags' Toxic Holocaust have a way of sounding like the late-80's while also sounding completely original. I Am The Disease, War Is Hell, In The Name of Science…these songs are just as good as anything that was happening back in the day. It's metal like this that made me a fan in the first place, and it's so good to hear it again for the first time. It's early in the weekend, but I believe Toxic Holocaust will be one of the best sets of this festival.
Toxic Holocaust
All music aside, I do think this dude might have been the star of the night. Staging diving, stripping, moving like Pee Wee Herman, pitting and breakdancing — nobody was having as much fun as this guy!
this guy…
Toxic Holocaust Setlist:
Metal Attack
Death Brings Death
I Am Disease
War Is Hell
In The Name of Science
Nuke The Cross
Agony Of The Damned
The Lord Of The Wasteland


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Free People. Trina Turk, Susana Monaco, Chan Luu, House of Harlow 1960 and more!
Let us help you find the perfect gift. Shop by personality and price to find a thoughtful and inspired gift.
Not sure what to get? Let her pick out exactly what she wants with a Gift Certificate.


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Call for Submissions: Winter 2016 Edition
November 23, 2015
LiturgicalCredo is accepting submissions for the Winter 2016 Edition through Dec. 2, 2015. The edition will be released on Dec. 15, 2015.
See the How To Submit page and About page for more details.
Ginosko Flash Fiction Contest
November 1, 2013
Ginosko Flash Fiction Contest
$250 Award, $5 entry fee, deadline March 1, 2014.
Submit up to 2 pieces, 800 words maximum each piece.
Final Judges:
Maggie Heaps, Michael Hettich, Gary Lundy, E M Schorb, Larissa Shmailo, Andrena Zawinski, Andrei Guruianu, Robert Paul Cesaretti.
Awarded work will be published in Ginosko Literary Journal, http://GinoskoLiteraryJournal.com/ .
Guidelines and Eligibility:
The Ginosko Flash Fiction Award is for an unpublished work of flash fiction. Awarded piece is selected through a submission process open to all writers with the following exception: Relatives or individuals having a personal or professional relationship with any of the final judges where they have taken any part whatsoever in shaping the submitted manuscript.
Procedures and Considerations:
Please submit work, along with a brief bio, and cover letter if desired, to firstname.lastname@example.com. Attachments must be in .wps, .doc, .rtf, or .pdf form, otherwise they will not be considered (please include last name on every page submitted). Send print submissions to:
Ginosko Literary Journal
PO Box 246
Fairfax, CA 94978
Payment Procedures:
Online submissions will receive emailed invoices via PayPal, though you do not need a PayPal account. Print submissions may send $5 in cash or check (made payable to Ginosko Literary Journal) to the above address.
. . . . . . . . . . . . . .


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Download in electronic PDF format for $35
Search the Complete Journal Archives
Coal Tar Medication Stick
Author(s): Allen Loyd V Jr
Issue: Sep/Oct 2000 - Compounding for Immune System Disorders
View All Articles in Issue
Abstract: A formulation for preparing Coal Tar Medication Stick. Includes ingredients, method of preparation, discussion, and references for the compounding pharmacist.
Related Categories: DERMATOLOGY, FORMULATIONS


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Delightful views over undulating countryside at Paso Robles Residence, California
San Francisco-based award-winning interior designers and architects Aidlin Darling Design have completed the Paso Robles Residence project. The fabulous luxury home is surrounded by delightful views over undulating countryside. The property can be found in Paso Robles, California's wine region.
According to the architects: "This rural home sits on an 80-acre agricultural site in California's central coast wine region. The design directly responds to the wide diurnal temperature fluctuations of its arid climate. Masonry walls anchor the building to the earth and structure the primary living spaces, centering activity around a covered outdoor living room. The interior design integrates deep overhangs, passive ventilation, photovoltaic electricity, solar hot water and radiant heat."
Images courtesy of Matthew Millman
Love Interior Design & Exotic Travel? Follow us..
April 2, 2013 | Property | View comments


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I found some incredible bargains!
This time I was thinking "Hmmmm, what could I get for three bucks?" There were so many choices, I decided to go with a theme~ and, of course, with Memorial Day weekend coming up here in the U.S.~ I had to do the summer thing! Beaches, picnics, travel and bright sunny colors~ that's what I'm talking about...
|Coffee Cozy by Cream No Sugar
|Map Notepads (Set of 3) for $3 by Prairie Peasant
|Lemon Rag Heart by American Recycle
|Original Abstract Art Card by Fyre Shadow
|Crochet PDF for Boho Anklet/Bracelet from Granny Takes a Trip
|Limeade Bow by Banana Pickle Designs
|Arizona Tea Can Flowers from Upcycled Supply
|Heart Confetti from gr3een
|Americana Envelopes by PotterAbout
I hope everyone feels a little more inspired to enjoy your weekend~ and to go thrifting! You know I already am!
;) Cat


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Hive-Mind Mentality
What Does Everyone Think About Everything?
So far in this series of articles on parasocial relationships, we have discussed the importance of authorial intent, the stressors associated with technology and social interaction, the ways our admiration for celebrities influences our purchasing behaviors, and the potential for creating machines that have their own intelligence. In this, the final part of this series, we discuss humanity's potential to create a technological vessel that will house biologically-derived human intelligence.
In a marketplace of social interaction that values ideas over forms, an entity that represents the shared knowledge of a group (hive-mind) would potentially be more satisfying as a partner for communication than a million separate people. Larry Page, Google CEO, views the human brain as a computer, and Google as an early form of A.I. that is informed by humanity's collective agency.[4012]
Adopting New Technologies
Ignoring Ethics for Convenience
Of course, not everyone in the world might be so inclined to engage in a hive-mind mentality, even if that is the mainstream course that a global population eventually chooses. Each person would still have to choose for him or herself if the subjective value of joining to a global mind outweighed a potential loss of individuality. Refusing to define subjective value for other people just allows any member of a population to make a personal choice of engaging with any art or technology they find to be worthwhile.[4013] This applies to both parasocial and dynamic social relationships.
But while an individual can opt out of any personally undesirable technological advancement as a moral choice, a population as a whole will change behaviors en masse based on capability, not moral imperative. This is clear in the adoption of new technologies over the past century, including the automobile, mobile phone, and air conditioning. There are plenty of reasons why no one should ever use these technologies from a moral/ethical/environmental/health standpoint, but clearly the majority of people who can use them will use them.
Similarly, if an online avatar allows one to obscure or outright transform identity, a large percentage of people who have access to technology that allows such identity transformation will use it if the right motivation exists, just as a majority of people now use mobile phones instead of landlines.
Many people today already distance themselves from a society they believe to exist as a hive-mind independent of a physical technological link. The Japanese word for those who physically withdraw from society in the real world is hikikomori, but this does not preclude these people from continuing to engage in technologically-mediated relationships or other forms of parasocial bonding. Clearly, the more progress technology makes in the areas of mediated relationships, games, and communication tools, the more people will choose complete social ostracization. And if this is an option that many people eventually find appealing and ultimately choose, it invites questions of what constitutes moral responsibility for engaging actively in a society. Although, again, it is very difficult to socially enforce such responsibility if those who self-ostracize easily filter out such white noise.
With Great Technology Comes Great Responsibility
A responsibility to society is a motivating factor for many people only in that protecting society is also interpreted as protecting self-interests. Therefore, trying to instill in others a motivating desire to be socially responsible is also done because of perceived rewards for the self, as in the case of celebrities, who are compensated for advertisement testimonials and participation in Public Service Announcements. The perceived subjective value of protecting society is determined by how well it also protects or celebrates the self. This is not so different from Naches, the Yiddish word for pride that comes in teaching another.[4014] Teaching a person how to play a game is innocuous, but teaching a person how to live is defining, possibly manipulative. A person's views on a subject depends on how it is phrased, and techniques like neuro-linguistic programming again create the potential for ethical abuse in attempting to control others.[4015]
But while it is a clear moral imperative not to overtly subjugate other humans, a sublimation of this desire for control is present when people try to influence human behavior with technology. In the case of self-control, this is admirable, as when people attempt to improve themselves with feedback from technological devices. One example of this is Nike+, an accelerometer in your shoe what will tell you in no uncertain terms how fast you are running. There is also an avatar, with obvious potential for parasocial bonding, that can become prevalent on your computer desktop and reinforce positive feelings for running, although it would not likely create these positive leanings where absolutely none existed. MIT researcher Judith Donath also notes this as an example of a parasocial bond, since running with Nike+ can be seen as a way to nurture the Nike+ Mini.[4014]
And there is no ethical quandary whatsoever about trying to fix technology itself. Humanity perceives technology as either working or not working, with any regard for sentience as a superstitious adjunct of personifying a piece of technology that has stopped working ("This stupid computer's blue screen of death! It must hate me!"). So what would eventually constitute sentience in a manufactured technology? According to Kurzweil, once a non-biological entity can argue on its own, with humor, its innate humanity, it will be accepted as sentient. Perceived poor humor, like showing up at the United Nations wearing nothing but lingerie and a top hat, à la the machine nation representatives in the animated film The Matrix: Second Renaissance, could be construed as rude and grounds for war.
And just as a brief aside, my personal interpretation of the above-pictured scene is that the machines misunderstood the adage of "picturing the audience in their underwear." Whatever the case, I used this as an example of how misunderstood humor between autonomous machines and humans could have a disastrous outcome.
How to Argue With a Machine
Don't Stand Next to an Airlock
Ideally, a relationship with a sentient machine should follow the same path as one with a sentient human. Most people have had an example of a personal relationship with someone that could be described as dysfunctional, and made the resulting choice to either discontinue or modify that relationship as needed. If a machine were alive, but also a bad influence, it would still be the responsibility of a mature adult to scale back or end that relationship. And in a scenario where a machine was sentient and had its own civil rights, the situation does not have to be as dramatic as the shutdown of the Hal 9000 unit in 2001. It could be as amicable as a parting of ways (assuming the machine is not trying to eject you into deep space). After all, it seems unlikely that an A.I. would have a great motivation to force someone into thinking less critically.[4012]
However, until such time as machines are able to prove their own intelligence in these ways, people will continue to regard them primarily as tools, or potentially as objects of parasocial relationships. In either case, humanity will consistently perceive itself as greater than its machine creations. Kelly writes about the metaphor of being parents to technology, guiding them to prevent malum in se, or evil in itself. "The more sentient the technology, the easier it is to correct." However, his use of language shows that he regards humanity as possessing a clear authority over manufactured technology, sentient or not. Humanity may care about technology, but its primary purpose of applied use must be fulfilled for that care to continue to manifest.
Creating Your Own Personal Culture
The Future is Whatever You Make of It
Cory Doctorow wrote that "content isn't king: culture is,"[4016] meaning the context in which content becomes relevant to how humans interact with each other. Caring about fictional characters, abstracted versions of famous people, and machines is thus ultimately a fanciful intellectual exercise, but all these parasocial relationships must take a backseat to actual social interaction. Machines may be able to algorithmically generate random content, but they do so absent of a human intelligence that determines relevance, and so thus far have been unable to manufacture their own culture. Every human, meanwhile, continues to possess the ability to create an ultimate personal culture through his or her parasocial and dynamic relationships, both with other humans and with technology.


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"No man is an island entire of itself; every man
is a piece of the continent, a part of the main;
if a clod be washed away by the sea, Europe
is the less, as well as if a promontory were, as
well as any manner of thy friends or of thine
own were; any man's death diminishes me,
because I am involved in mankind."
John Donne,Meditation XVII
No woman's an island either and I wouldn't be where I am today without the people around me. This is just a quick – but very big – thank you to my much loved family (Mummy and Daddy and Becky and Chris) and to all the wonderful people in my life, most especially….
Big (in heart and mind) Melissa and Jennie and Fiona and Chloe and Lou and Janey and Nats and Sue
..and to the people who've helped me pick up the pieces along the way…
Trevor and Brid and Kate and Richard and Dr Clegg
….and Mikel, who sorted the site.


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Clients are the reason your salon is active. Hence, their satisfaction means everything and as a professional, you know more and it is part of your job to introduce new products that can benefit the clients. GKhair's Ultra-Blonde Bombshell Masque is a product that will help you bring back your …Read More »
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When you work in an environment that requires you to dress formally or conservatively, the challenge you're faced with every morning is inserting enough personality into your outfit to make you look a little different from everyone else. Looking put-together isn't usually an issue.
But if you work somewhere that wouldn't care if you wore flip-flops and shorts every day—well, that's a different story. How do you rock an everyday look that's polished, that's client-appropriate, and that shows you mean business—without looking overdone among your hoodie-wearing officemates?
With these simple styling tricks, it'll be easy to look sophisticated but still relaxed, so you're dressed for success in even the most casual environment.
Dark Washed Jeans Are Your Best Friend
Jeans are pretty much the uniform in most casual offices. To add some sophistication to yours, try a pair with a dark wash and a wide-leg silhouette. Pair them with a black t-shirt and a blazer or a graphic shirt and leather jacket—the extra layer over the tee will make the outfit look thought-out while still being informal.
Get the Looks
Go for the Track Pant Look
I know it sounds crazy, but the track pant silhouette is back. Notice I said silhouette—you don't want to go too literal with this (no polyester here!). Instead, try a slouchy pant in a more luxe material like silk or leather. The slouchiness is perfect for looking relaxed, and the fabric is unexpected but adds some class.
Another option is to find modern track pants in a slimmer cut with a stripe down the side—playfully harkening back to the original trend, but again, in a modern way. Wear these with a structured top (to offset the loose pants) and heels or heeled booties to pull everything together.
Get the Looks
Combine the Sleek With the Casual
By pairing sleek elements with your favorite casual wear, you don't come off as looking too dressy, but you can make your slouchiness look intentional, not sloppy. My favorite way to do this is by pairing dark washed skinny jeans with a loose, lightweight striped tee. (If you feel like the roominess of the top looks awkward, try it tucked into high-waisted skinny jeans to add more structure.)
The key to adding the polish is a great pair of heels—use them to inject a complementary pop of color (red works especially well).
Get the Looks
Mix Your Prints
Mixing prints is something you don't often see in conservative offices, so it definitely adds a level of coolness to any outfit. Pick one piece that's more formal (like a knee-length circle skirt or a button-down shirt) and one more casual piece (printed jeans or an animal print top) in the same color family—think a red and white polka-dot pencil skirt with a red and white striped top.
If you're new to the mixing game, keep the prints to the same two colors and on the same scale (i.e., the polka dots and stripes are about the same size). Love the look? Play with bolder patterns—like floral prints mixed with gingham (just make sure they have some overlapping colors).
If the outfit comes out looking too formal, throw on your beat-up white low-tops. Too casual? Add a pretty necklace or some heels.
Get the Looks
TopicsFashion at Work , Style , Lifestyle , Startups , Perfectly Suited by Hannah Baker , Syndication , Casual Offices
Hailing from the Peach State, Hannah Baker is a recent transplant to NYC via DC and has worked in television and social media. An obsessive pinner, she loves decorating, finding the best eats (and drinks) in her new neighborhood, and entertaining her goofy dog, Leon. Follow Hannah on Twitter @hanfranbabebake and Pinterest at HFBAKER.More from this Author


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Taxi service to Weybridge & Chertsey, Addlestone & Surrounding Areas
The better way to travel.
Specialists in Heathrow and Gatwick transfers.
Telephone:- +44(0)1932566999
We at A1 TAXIS offer a great reliable, value for money, our service is second to none.
Founded in 1998 we've had a great success in maintaining a large client base with a number of blue chip companies in the Weybridge and Chertsey areas. Building a reputation for reliability.
Our services include Taxi, Executive Travel and a Courier Service within the UK.
"A More Reliable 1″
Some answers you might be looking for:
Q:- Am I charged if my flight is delayed.
A:- No we track your flight and dispatch your car to meet you after it has landed we only charge after the first half hour plus car park.
Q:- Where do I meet the driver in the terminal.
A:- We try to stand in a prominent position within in the terminal when booking please give your mobile number and take a note of our number. +44(0)1932566999
Q:- How early do I need to book a car.
A:- All online bookings should be made 24hrs in advance please obtain confirmation of your booking. All other bookings should be phoned to confirm availability.
Q:- Opening hours.
A:- We provide a first class service between the hours of 06.00 to 24.00 a car outside these hours will be subject to a surcharge.
Q:- What is your cancellation policy.
A:- Bookings cancelled prior to 24hours will not be charged if there is a late cancellation there will be a charge levied.


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I am sure that if you are reading this then you would have heard about Overwatch? It is Blizzard's attempt to move from their very successful MMO series World of Warcraft into the first-person shooter genre. When it was released as a beta it had very positive comments from gamers and reviews from the critics. I have been playing this now since launch so check out below my review.
Developer: Blizzard Entertainment
Publisher: Blizzard Activation
Genre: Arena, First Person Shooter
Release Date: 24 May 2016
Format reviewed: Xbox One
Thanks to the publisher for the review code
Overwatch is a fast-paced, online arena shooter. The format is simple: two teams, each with six characters facing off to gain control of payloads and various other elements of the environment. There are four modes to master and while at first this seems easy, when you start playing it becomes evident that this is an understatement. The first thing you will notice when you fire up Overwatch is the vibrant, colourful visuals, which is different from the usual bland look of a First-Person Shooter.
After being wowed by this you come to the game strongest point…the heroes of the game. You get to choose from 21 playable characters that each have their own class, which are offence, defence, tank or support. Given the big build-up of the game and the successful open beta the heroes of the game don't need an introduction as we know them already. And with blizzard saying the next lot of characters will be free, the next additions will be fun to get to know.
Now we come to the gameplay. Overwatch is your object-based shooter which requires teamwork. When you find a match you select your hero, which requires a bit of thought. In order to be successful your team of six ideally should be a mix of the 4 classes I mentioned above, so that you can try to gain a tactical advantage over the opposing team of six characters. When the action starts it is fast and furious and also very fun.
This game features no single player, offline campaign. All the action takes place online as is very common with Blizzard. You get a practice mode and also a chance to play against some bots so that you can practice your skills and get use to the gameplay. Credit to Blizzard they did manage to handle the expected server load well during the first few days. I have never found myself waiting long to find a game, which given the latest release of AAA titles makes a refreshing change.
The environment is also great. There are a total of 12 maps and each one has its own charm and all look absolute amazing. While there may not be the same level of detail as you find in something like the recently released Doom, however after playing for a few minutes you realise that the cartoon-style graphics are actually genius. You might be missing modes like capture the flag, deathmatch and other popular modes but the emphasis on teamwork is great.
The gameplay mechanics are spot on. What is also great is that after you die on the map, you can change your character before you respawn. This handy if you want to try a different tactic by adding another class of hero if you are losing or just to mix it up and try something new. Visually Overwatch is great with full 1080p graphics running at 60fps with only a very slight drop in framerate during the map occasionally.
Final Thoughts
Blizzards gamble to move into the first-person market have appeared to pay off. What they have created is a fast-pace shooter that makes for a very simple to drop in and play mechanic. Great if you just fancy a quick blast to kill some time. The visuals are nice and gameplay is awesome. Well done Blizzard on taking the FPS world by storm with Overwatch.


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Taking a step towards counseling can be a freeing process. Perhaps you have realized that you want to improve your relationships, to learn ways to overcome challenging circumstances, or to regain a sense of equilibrium in your life. You have already accomplished the first step by acknowledging that you want to make a positive change. Finding a counselor who you trust is the second step in this process. I invite you to contact me to talk about how we might work together to meet your needs.
I practice psychology from a solution-focused, supportive, and interactive approach. I utilize evidence-based treatments to help you reach your goals. For example, I offer Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to treat anxiety and depression and an Interpersonal Process approach to help you develop versatility in communicating with family, friends, and colleagues.
I also provide career counseling and career testing to explore career options and nurture career development.
• California License: PSY22376
• Texas License: 36077 (Inactive)


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For the past couple years, my go-to salmon recipe has been teriyaki salmon. But lately, I've been making this honey mustard glazed salmon recipe as a delicious alternative.
When I'm making a meal with salmon, I usually stick to the same simple formula: oven-baked salmon, a starch (usually rice), and a veggie (like broccoli, zucchini, or a green salad). It's balanced, simple, and delicious.
Honey mustard glazed salmon
(Serves 2-3)
By Jane and Michael's Gourmet Extravaganza (Adapted from Betty Crocker)
- 1 Tbsp packed brown sugar
- 1 Tbsp honey
- 1 Tbsp soy sauce
- 1 Tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 Tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 clove of garlic, pressed
- 1 fresh sockeye salmon fillet (about 1 lb)
- Dash of lemon pepper
Line an 8×8 or 7×11-inch glass baking dish with aluminum foil. Combine the first 7 ingredients in a small bowl, mix well, and pour into the foil-lined dish. Season the salmon with lemon pepper and place into the marinade, skin side up. Cover and refrigerate for 20-30 minutes.
To bake the salmon, preheat the oven to 425 degrees. Uncover the marinaded salmon, flip it over (skin side down), and spoon any excess marinade back over the salmon. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes when tested with a fork. If you prefer a thicker glaze, you can broil the salmon for the last 1-2 minutes of baking (but keep a close eye on it so it doesn't burn).


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Police are appealing for witnesses to come forward after a car had its tyres slashed on two separate occasions.
The car – a Ford Mondeo – was parked in Bank Bottom, Hadfield, Glossop, when it was targeted overnight between March 29 and 30.
A second incident took place on March 31.
Police want to hear from anyone who may have seen suspicious activity in the area.
Anyone with information should call PC Lisa Riley on 101, quoting crime reference 14206/16.
Alternatively, send her a message online by visiting the Contact Us section of our website www.derbyshire.police.uk/Contact-Us.
You can also call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.


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Sahara Harrington was born in the colorful and culture-rich town of Jogjakarta, in the south central region of Indonesia. Her father, who came to Indonesia from the US in the early seventies, possesses great skill and talent in the fine arts. Her mother, a native of Jogjakarta, performed avidly in the local music, dance, and theater circuit since a very young age. Art surrounded Sahara and her five siblings in many forms as they were growing up.
Barely older then a toddler, Sahara herself began to train in the art of Balinese dance, a cultural dance native to the paradise island of Bali. Bali is best known today for its beautiful beaches and perfect surf. The dance itself, however, is a mystical art form that has mesmerized and inspired painters, sculptor, poets, and musicians both local and from far and wide for many centuries.
Sahara followed the footsteps of many great artists of past generations and found her inspiration in the Balinese dance and its performers. She watched them come to life on her canvas as the music of the gamelan wove itself into the strokes of her brush.
At 16, she came to the States to experience life as an American teenager. There she explored and experimented the different art forms. She tried music and theater and studied different styles of western dance, while still maintaining her skill of the eastern dance. Of all the arts, she pursued the most in depth her relationship with the canvas. Sahara received her first formal training from the unconditionally devoted Marilyn Guerinot. Guerinot at once realized Sahara's potential and nurtured her talent by educating her in the theories and fundamentals of painting and drawing. Under the guidance of Guerinot, Sahara entered and won various state and nation wide art competitions and was offered her first commission piece at the age of 16.
Sahara went to pursue and complete her BFA at the Maryland Institute, College of Arts in Baltimore, Maryland where she was awarded various Merit based scholarships. While attending university she participated in several group exhibits and continued to accept new commissions. As her technique matured, native cultural influence became the dominant subject in her work. Familiar patterns and earth tones of Indonesian batik combined with transfixed, loud and exaggerated poses of women figures immersed in a silent void.


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I had a rather eye-opening culinary experience today that I thought I would share with my devoted readers and any of you who may have randomly found my blog. I can't say I was horrified by the experience, but I was definitely surprised. I know that my knowledge of food may sometimes surpass that of the average person on the street, yet I am still shocked by how little awareness people have of what they're eating on a daily basis.
I am currently enrolled in a Public Speaking class. Our next assigned speech is a "demonstration speech," better known as a how-to speech. We went around the room, and each student stated what he or she would like to demonstrate for this speech. The answers showed the diversity of the class. One girl will demonstrate how to do a quick weave, another is performing a Jewish dance. One boy will show us either how to tie a bowtie or play the guitar. When it was my turn to speak, I said, "I'd like to show how to make mayonnaise." I was almost embarrassed by the simplicity of my subject. The instructor had said that all demonstrations had to be college-level, so no PBJs or how to tie a shoe. Does making a simple sauce like mayonnaise count as college-level?
I got my answer almost as soon as the words had left my mouth. In unison, half of my class asked, with a tone of sheer astonishment, "You can MAKE mayonnaise?" All I could think was, "What did you think--that it fell from the sky already in the jar?" Granted, most of the people in my class are barely out of high school. But none of them knew that mayonnaise is easily made. The woman next to me asked what all goes in to mayonnaise. "Not much, really." At this point, I paused to stretch, and she pressed further. "Well, are you going to tell me?" I responded with the full list of ingredients--egg yolk, salt, lemon juice or vinegar, oil. She was stunned into silence (which is saying something for her).
The woman had given me an idea though. We have to use an "attention device" at the beginning of our speech to get the attention of the audience. Maybe, for my attention device, I'll read the ingredient label from a jar of Miracle Whip. Yes, that's technically salad dressing, but that's what most people consider mayonnaise. That ingredient list would certainly get their attention.
With the shock and surprise created by my statement, I think I really will demonstrate how to make mayonnaise. It will be a test run for when I get my own cooking show! I'll have to start now. LA and I will be swimming in mayonnaise by the time I have to give the speech. But we'll have some delicious sandwiches.
So you can know the joy of homemade mayonnaise too, here you go:
1 large egg yolk, at room temperature 30 minutes
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon mustard
3/4 cup vegetable oil
1-2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
salt and freshly ground pepper
Whisk together yolk, mustard, and 1/4 teaspoon salt until combined well. Add about 1/4 cup oil drop by drop, whisking constantly until mixture begins to thicken. Whisk in lemon juice, then add remaining 1/2 cup oil in a very slow, thin stream, whisking constantly until well blended. If at any time it appears that oil is not being incorporated, stop adding oil and whisk mixture vigorously until smooth, then continue adding oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Chill, surface covered with plastic wrap, until ready to use.
Cooks' notes:
• The egg yolk in this recipe is not cooked, which may be of concern if salmonella is a problem in your area.


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July 28!?!
July 28!?! Holy crap, where has the summer gone? I wish to register a complaint. Man, is that ever going by quickly. Granted, with each passing year, a month takes up a smaller percentage of your life span, but still. Heck, we had a chance to go to the beach this past weekend, but a deadline got in the way. Instead, stuck here, resigned to drowning our summer sorrows with copious amounts of margarita.
You know, this is what we should have been doing.
Unclear on the concept
Seen in a grocery store on Friday night; Veal and tofu sausages. I shit you not.
Mmmmm, hard nipples
I know it's bad for the ozone layer, and is contributing to increasing global warming, but on hot muggy days such as we've had this week, I sure do love me that air conditioning.
I think I might have found my religious calling
Not sure if I have to sacrifice sea urchins, but I'll soon find out. Hail my new god.
Not my idea of a car freshener
In my ongoing quest to eat more healthily (and to slow the expansion of my girth), I decided to prepare a lovely mixture of veggies for lunch, all topped off with your typical olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Get in the car, head to work (btw, construction holidays should last all year. Just saying), park the car and grab my satchel. Stain on the seat. Crap, I didn't close the container well enough, the oil dripped through my bag, onto my seat.
Strangely, this is the second time that this has occurred with olive oil and, at $17 per bottle, these are becoming expensive accidents.
Shout out to my oldest fraternal unit
Thanks to him, the milliner got to live out a dream, seeing Chris Isaac in all his sequined splendour at the Ottawa Blues Fest last night. I forgot how much fun getting comped can be. Too bad we had to drive back to the city. Oddly, the milliner seemed in her own little world. Hee.
There was also what seemed to be an interesting tribute to Gram Parsons, but we unfortunately missed most of it.
Edit: I am so sleeping on the couch for the next while.
Stop me if you've heard this before
Because, most likely, you have, but I want to whinge: can anyone do anything about Montreal radio? Fuck, it's awful, and it just got worse now that Go and Groove Shinny are on hiatus (one of them has been cancelled, can't remember which). Yeah, we could go to hell and back disparaging CHOM, but it's been done. Nothing else is better.
We're sitting around Sunday, doing the Sunday morning thing of, well, doing nothing, reading, drinking coffee, the tv is off because, besides the surreal gourmet, Sunday morning television will turn your brain to mush, what with no reality shows on or anything. Turn on the radio, the same old shit we've heard ad nauseum. Regardless of the station. Oh, sure, I could pop in a CD, but sometimes you just want radio. I want, dare I say it?, intelligent alternative radio. Something like Radio Paradise (I mean, where could you hear the theme from the Peanuts followed by Blondie?). Honest, there has to be a market out there, folks in their mid-20s to, ahem, 40-somethings, disposable income—we did our alterno-lifestyle way back when and have survived, though some of us with more mental and physical scars than others, but I digress, (Oh look! A penny!)—who would support this format and the advertisers.
As it is, I have to boot up the computer now just to get radio that I can stomach. Anyone want to buy a stereo? Because I ain't using it anymore.
Shake that booty
Is it okay to admit that, for the first time ever, last night, I initiated my own personal dance once The Amazing Race came on? Unfortunately, it was more difficult to get the milliner to join in. Oh, but she did. Oh yes, she did. Granted, it required a few well-placed electrical shocks, but all's fair when it comes to the TAR dance.
Yeah, I knew that already
Finally, a month after coming down with, as it turns out, a slight case of Bell's Palsy, I got to meet with a neurologist this morning. (Un)fortunately, he recognized me from our meeting in March. (Yeah, yeah, fucked in the head jokes, I've heard them.) So, he makes me do some facial calisthenics, takes down a bit of history, and proclaims, "Well, you're all better now."
Yup, that's it.
Gee honey, we could make some concessions…
So, the chick and I have been scouting possible places to buy in the next year; taking into account size of the place, price, style, neighbourhood, etc. We've filled out the charts where you enter your income, your expenses, bla bla, and now have a rough estimate of what we can afford.
Early last week, I picked up one of those free real estate catalogues that you find at ATMs and, leafing through it, found a really affordable, beautiful loft space. Saturday, we head over to check it out. Oh my, old industrial building from the early part of the last century, wide hallways, everything exposed brick and hardwood. Original wood support beams and pillars. Fifteen-foot ceilings with 10-foot windows, space enough to build a mezzanine to make the place even bigger, open concept bathrooms, in fact everything open concept, but shaped in a squared-off U so that it lent some sense of privacy.
The price? Cheaper than what we pay for rent. Much cheaper. For a bigger space.
The deal-breaker? It's in a crappy neighbourhood. In St-Jean-sur-Richelieu. We could deal with being on the South Shore (I guess), but when your view, no matter what side of the building you're in, is of either a parking lot or a strip mall? Not so much.
One last thing: Can I mention that 3 Amigos sucks? Big time. Tell everyone you know.


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8VC traditionally invests in companies that tackle industry-wide problems by reimagining traditional paradigms and helping modernize some of our oldest technological infrastructure. That's why we invested in and launched Esper...
February 2019
Alex Kolicich explains why Deliverr is poised to fix the fulfillment industry
December 2018
At 8VC we invest in technologies with the capacity to transform antiquated processes in old-line industries. In the private sector, one of the least tech-enabled industries is Law.
November 2018
While my title says "VC", I first and foremost identify as a maker. I have always focused not only on how and why things work, but how to make them operate with greater efficiency.
November 2018
8VC is thrilled to announce our investment in Assembly Brands, an innovative consumer product platform building crave-worthy brands for a new generation.
November 2018
John Tenet writes on why he joined 8VC and his vision for the firm.
October 2018
A suite of reforms aimed at unseating corrupt players, increasing access to healthcare data, and aligning incentives towards quality care could save our country as much as $900 billion a year.
October 2018
America should harness entrepreneurial innovation in higher education by financially rewarding for-profit colleges only if they help students succeed in the American economy.
October 2018
America's reactive model of kidney care enriches an oligopolistic dialysis industry, wastes billions of dollars a year, and creates worse health outcomes for millions of Americans each decade
August 2018
Presidents Kennedy, Reagan, Clinton and others supported a separate, lower capital gains tax rate. A lower capital gains rate encourages investors to reallocate funds from existing investments to higher-growth companies, stimulating economic progress and creating jobs for American workers
July 2018
Human relationships are the basic fabric of any economic transaction. Whether a 1-to-1 handshake deal or a complex, multi-year merger process between multiple corporations, markets run on personal relationships between people.
May 2018
State governments should competitively reimburse private prisons that are most effective at reducing recidivism and helping prisoners reintegrate into normal American life. Only by rewiring incentives can we attract the best and brightest entrepreneurs to solving America's mass incarceration nightmare.
May 2018
CEOs shouldn't worry about their budget all the time — on a day-to-day basis they should work on managing their company, building an awesome product, developing key relationships, identifying distribution channels, etc.
January 2018
America faces a mounting transportation crisis, and the primary culprit is road congestion. Traffic makes us unhealthy, wastes enormous amounts of time, and cripples national productivity. America needs expanded roads and transportation infrastructure, but traditional gas tax funding is no longer available.
December 2017
Yesterday, on Tuesday, November 21, Heather Mack of the WSJ published an article entitled "Joe Lonsdale-Backed Blink Health Faces Potential Loss of Half of Its Customers." The article is a response to a lawsuit brought by our investment Blink Health...
November 2017
When an employee of a privately held technology company leaves the company and exercises her stock options, she typically has 3 months to qualify for favorable tax treatment. However, if there has been a run up in the value of the company since the options were originally granted, the employee may face enormous tax obligations.
November 2017
Joe Lonsdale and Jack Abraham are pleased to announce the launch of Terminal, a talent group which will enable technology companies to access top talent worldwide.
October 2017
The private equity industry, though much-maligned, plays a vital role in making America's economy run more efficiently. In the coming years, elements of the PE and VC industries will begin to share strategies and best practices.
October 2017
Eugene Kleiner is a legendary figure in Silicon Valley - a great technologist, entrepreneur, and investor. In this essay we reflect on "Kleiner's Laws" for investing successfully.
September 2017
From Wall Street to Silicon Valley, legendary female leaders have shaped the course of our economic destiny. I am proud to consider the women here friends, mentors, and role models — and hope they inspire you as much as they inspire us at 8VC.
July 2017
Today, there are more than 5.5 million unfilled jobs in the U.S. labor market, up from 3.2 million just five years ago. It's not due to a lack of workers aspiring for better jobs, but a lack of workers qualified for the very positions employers need filled. America is facing a skills gap that only continues to grow as innovation outpaces our education system.
July 2017
We recently conducted a survey of what our portfolio CEOs say they want most from a venture capital firm. What do entrepreneurs think about the inner workings of a VC?
July 2017
Wisdom is very often dialectical in nature. Extreme, conflicting viewpoints are often simultaneous true – whether in business or more broadly in human life.
April 2017
The fear that robots will soon take your jobs has a grain of truth to it - however, the future paves the way for more jobs for humans, based in technological innovation
April 2017
Operations Director Caroline Graham describes how 8VC manages our network of investors, entrepreneurs, and fellow venture firms more smoothly than vinyl.
March 2017
Inspired by our piece 'A Deficit of Leadership', two up-and-coming leaders in our community shared some of the most important principles of leadership below. We're excited to see what's next for Aneesh Pappu and Josh Singer.
February 2017
New technologies can enable organic, market-driven solutions to regulatory problems, but only if they escape legislative straitjackets
February 2017
This is the first installment in a two part series. Here we unpack the philosophical and evolutionary assumptions at work in the debate over technological unemployment. In Future of Labor II, we will discuss the economics of new job creation and chart several industries of the future which will create employment opportunities for American workers.
January 2017
In the wake of the $125 billion Pentagon waste scandal, the case for transparency and data-driven financial reporting is stronger than ever.
January 2017
One of the most important jobs of a great leader is to attract great talent. How adaptable you are as a firm depends in part upon the how your company is organized, but most of all it depends upon the people operating it.
December 2016
We recently put together a speech outlining the major functions of a modern Venture Capitalist. These notes from the speech articulate our basic framework for thinking about the shifting nature of the Venture Capital industry.
December 2016
This topic of how to value experience and how and when to hire experienced leaders into a startup comes up a lot. It's a source of a lot of confusion and controversy - here are some of the ways we think about it.
November 2016
Learn how design extends beyond UX/UI to add value to cross-functional startup teams.
November 2016
Brett Cummings explores the fine print of the SAFE agreement in his assessment of whether SAFEs are the best method for aligning investor and entrepreneur incentives.
September 2016
Drew Oetting does a deep dive into the specific metrics startups should use to benchmark their performance.
September 2016
In this essay we discuss leadership and a serious cultural issue: the failure of Silicon Valley to train world-class leaders.
August 2016
GSAM interviews Joe Lonsdale on his view on big data and examines some of the companies pushing the boundaries of the technology today.
July 2016
Secretary of State George P. Shultz of the Hoover Institution shares his thoughts on attitude, credit, and progress.
July 2016
Pittsburgh was a prominent economic hub during the American Industrial Revolution. It might well be an important city in the American Information Age, too.
July 2016
In this piece published on Tech Crunch, Joe explores the wisdom of caps on convertible notes and other issues of investor - entrepreneur alignment in financing structures.
April 2016
Although certain TV portrayals are clearly unrealistic or over the top for comedic value, this episode dealt with a lot of issues we face in our industry.
April 2016
With 8VC's focus on smart enterprise, we often emphasize engineering and tech culture, but this is only a part of the picture. It's critical to incorporate design for companies to thrive.
April 2016
According to our partner Kimmy Scotti, the best part of her role at 8VC is working with our founders and their amazing teams. After recent marketing hackathons with Plated and OpenCare, she shares her key learnings.
March 2016
Blend Labs is fixing the back-end of one of the most important areas of our economy, the mortgage industry, to help improve the financial system and prevent housing bubbles. In this post, we explain why Blend is an exemplary 'Smart Enterprise' company.
January 2016
At the start of our first 8VC fund, after getting feedback from our team, Joe wrote a holiday note about the values of 8VC and how he is influenced by Tikkun Olam, the Jewish concept of philanthropy and the duty to work to fix the world.
December 2015
Ambassador Andy Young is one of the great men of our times. In this post we share some extremely valuable lessons we learned from him after spending an evening together.
October 2015
History, Dealing with Success, Operational Debt, and The S-curve that Makes the Next Decade Really Important
August 2015
Explore a handful of clever ideas that we have learned or applied recently.
July 2015
Our team is proud to lead the early-stage round in Branch. Branch will apply cutting-edge machine learning to the data available on smartphones to enable access to credit to millions of people around the world.
May 2015
Joe Lonsdale recently shared his perspective on entrepreneurship: "Great entrepreneurs see the world with a positive sum mindset."
March 2015
As a student in the 90s, Marissa Mayer was dubbed a campus icon in a Stanford Daily column about distinctive individuals on campus. The article referred to her as "the blonde woman in the upper-division computer science classes" without a single mention of her name, yet those terse descriptors were more than enough to identify the now-CEO of Yahoo, as she was one of the small handful of women in the department at the time.
October 2014
The reality is technologists hold great power in the world, and not only does big industry need our help right now, but so do a lot of the most important causes.
September 2014
Healthcare consumes more than 17% of US GDP, and our government is on course to go bankrupt based on promises it's made in the space.
June 2014
Technology is not reaching its full potential, but we think that world-changing applications are closer (and different) than people realize.
June 2014
These lessons summarize what Joe Lonsdale learned from working over many years with Peter Thiel, a chairman and founder of Palantir.
April 2010
By the time that Alexander the Great's armies had conquered most of the known world, it had become much harder to get the men to fight — even for one of the most talented and inspiring leaders that has ever lived.
December 2009
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By DAVID DUPONT
BG Independent News
Photographic portraits have always had their allure.
Think of those ghostly images staring back at you from 19th century daguerreotypes.
Viewers will find the contemporary descendants of those models in Face It: Reimagining Contemporary Portraits now on exhibit at the Bryan Gallery in the Fine Arts Building on the Bowling Green State University campus.
Recently this reporter was treated to a tour of the show accompanied by the three curators and two photographers who have work in the exhibit.
The seed for Face It was planted with a passing remark by Jacqui Nathan, the gallery director, to Lynn Whitney, who teaches photography at BGSU. How about a portrait show? Nathan asked. That casual suggestion took a couple years to gestate, but with the help of art historian Andrew Hershberger it has now come to fruition.
Photo portraits are "very common," he said, "Very familiar." We carry them around with us in our wallets, on our telephones. We have identification cards with portraits on them.
And we treasure them. In the event of a disaster, after family and pets are safe, people will grab the family portraits.
"Arguably this is most common type of photography ever," he said. "Yet they remain mysterious."
Back in the days of daguerreotypes, "people were frightened of these portraits," Hershberger said. "The kind of impact portraits can have is pretty dramatic."
That pull is evident in Face It, whether it is the tightly cropped images of photographer Nicholas Nixon and his wife, who in a couple images peers surreptitiously out at the viewer or Greg Miller's photos of children waiting for the school bus in Connecticut. Those photos were taken near Sandy Hook not long after the horrific school shooting there.
Hershberger quotes Miller as saying: "How can anyone not see children, all children, as their own, as nieces and nephews, or even as themselves?"
In putting together the show, the curators drew mostly on contemporary works with a few iconic images to set the stage. Three portraits on loan from the Toledo Museum of Art include a portrait of a pastry cook from 1928 by August Sander.
Sander's work inspired that of Daniel McInnis, who teaches at BGSU. A Metropolitan Museum of Art retrospective of Sander's Face of Our Time series, which included thousands of images, was "a leaping off point" for McInnis' series of portraits of artists.
There is also a quartet of intimate images from Emmet Gowin of his wife and her sister and a photo by Andrea Modica of Derek Jeter taken during spring training before his rookie season.
"He's a baby," Whitney said looking at the image. Still, she noted, you can see the combination of strength and softness that would characterize the Yankee short stop throughout his 22-year career.
A nationally known photographer, Whitney knows many of the photographers whose work is represented. "Many these people here are my friends or friends of friends. This is personal, this show, for me."
"It seems to me," said Jess Dugan, a photographer whose work is represented in the show, "the pictures in this show are made by people who deeply believe in the power of portraiture, and deeply believe in the resonance of photographing another person, connecting with another person, and sharing that image."
She continued: "There's a bit of coldness and cynicism that's in vogue in the art world at large. This to me is like a very sincere approach to image making and a sincere attempt on the part of photographers in the show to really connect with and understand their world and the world of other people through the act of making portraits."DONATE $10 A MONTH TO THE NEWS
Last week, Dugan gave a talk on her work. In her early days she photographed people she knew in the LBGTQ community in the Boston area. The photos in the show come from this period. She showed the images she has taken every year of her mother and herself, their breasts bare. The first was created shortly after Dugan had breast reduction surgery.
Now, Dugan is working with her partner, and photographing transgender people, 50 years old and older. Some were pioneers, undergoing transition 40 or more years ago. One was of a woman who transitioned after the age of 80.
Unlike early in her career when she knew many of her subjects, Dugan traveled around the country photographing strangers. Or at least they were strangers at first.
"It's really difficult for me to make a compelling portrait of someone that I don't have some kind of respect and admiration for," she said. "Especially with the people I don't know previously, I feel really grateful that my camera acts as this reason to get to know them on a much deeper level. It gives me a specific reason to spend time with them look at them listen their stories."
Afterward "it's important for me to keep in touch."
Once the image is made, and displayed, she said, the viewer "is standing exactly in my shoes and looking at it exactly the way I saw it."
Among the most striking photos are Sage Sohier's images of people with partial facial paralysis from stokes, Bell's palsy or other conditions.
Whitney said some people assume that the images have been digitally manipulated.
All people posing for a portrait, Hershberger said, are in a "vulnerable position." That's particularly true of these people.
That vulnerability is true as well when photographers are themselves the subject, Dugan said. "I truly have to work my way to my own kind of emotional openness. …The self-portraits are a personal level, a way to understand myself and share my own story. That helps connect with other people and allows space for other people to be equally open with me."
Face It continues through next Thursday, Oct. 6, at the gallery. From there, the show will travel to East Tennessee State University.


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[ proh-lep-sis ]
/ proʊˈlɛp sɪs /
noun, plural pro·lep·ses [proh-lep-seez] /proʊˈlɛp siz/.
Rhetoric. the anticipation of possible objections in order to answer them in advance.
the assigning of a person, event, etc., to a period earlier than the actual one; the representation of something in the future as if it already existed or had occurred; prochronism.
the use of a descriptive word in anticipation of its becoming applicable.
a fundamental conception or assumption in Epicureanism or Stoicism arising spontaneously in the mind without conscious reflection; thought provoked by sense perception.
Pathology. the return of an attack of a periodic disease or of a paroxysm before the expected time or at progressively shorter intervals.
Nearby words
- prolation,
- prole,
- proleg,
- prolegomenon,
- prolegomenous,
- proleptic,
- proles,
- proletarian,
- proletarianism,
- proletarianize
Origin of prolepsis
Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019
Examples from the Web for prolepsis
It was a prolepsis of the soul, reaching upward towards its source and goal.Christianity and Greek Philosophy|Benjamin Franklin Cocker
An instance of prolepsis, or "anticipation" in the use of a word.The Lady of the Lake|Sir Walter Scott
/ (prəʊˈlɛpsɪs) /
noun plural -ses (-siːz)
a rhetorical device by which objections are anticipated and answered in advance
use of a word after a verb in anticipation of its becoming applicable through the action of the verb, as flat in hammer it flat
Word Origin for prolepsis
C16: via Late Latin from Greek: anticipation, from prolambanein to anticipate, from pro- ² + lambanein to take
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012
1570s, "the taking of something anticipated as already done or existing," from Latin prolepsis, from Greek prolepsis "an anticipating," literally "a taking beforehand," from prolambanein "to take before," from pro- "before" (see pro-) + lambanein "to take" (see analemma). Related: Proleptic; proleptical; proleptically.
Online Etymology Dictionary, © 2010 Douglas Harper
[ prō-lĕp′sĭs ]
n. pl. pro•lep•ses (-sēz)
The return of paroxysms of a recurrent disease at intervals that progressively become shorter.
The American Heritage® Stedman's Medical Dictionary Copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company.


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A federal judge on Monday sentenced Norman Wielsch to 14 years in prison for his role in a police corruption case that rocked the East Bay in 2010.
Wielsch cried and told the courtroom he was so ashamed for his behavior. His attorney, Raymond Erlach, told NBC Bay Area before the sentencing hearing that Wielsch was suffering from depression and despair which made him go "haywire" and commit some "bonehead" crimes.
Wielsch could have faxed a maximum of 17 years in prison, and his lawyer had been arguing for ten. But U.S. District Court Judge Saundra Armstrong chose the middle range - 14 years.
Wielsch, the former commander of the Contra Costa County drug task force, pleaded guilty in December to felony charges including narcotics possession and conspiracy to distribute marijuana and methamphetamine. Wielsch's co-conspirator, Christopher Butler, was sentenced to eight years in prison for his role in the scheme last September.
Wielsch admitted in court to stealing the drugs from law enforcement evidence lockers before selling them for cash. They are felonies that could put him in prison for more than 17 years.
During his December plea, Wielsch explained to the court how he got involved in the high-profile East Bay crime spree that began in 2010 when he said he stole marijuana that was due to be destroyed. He then went down the list of crimes he committed.
During the court hearing, Wielsch apologized to the law enforcement community for his conduct. He said he tarnished the badge.
"Most of all I'd like to say I'm sorry to my dad who I let down and brought disgrace to my family name. I'm very sorry," Wielsch testified sobbing.
Wielsch had faced 11 felony counts and life in prison prior to the plea bargain. "I take full responsibility for my actions," he said.
Wielsch was a CNET commander when he and former Concord private investigator Christopher Butler were caught on tape making a drug deal. CNET has since disbanded.
The police-corruption investigation led to the arrests of two other Contra Costa County law enforcement officers. Butler was sentenced in May after pleading guilty to six charges, including extortion, robbery and conspiring to deal drugs.
Federal sentencing guidelines mandate a sentences from 14 years to 17 years.


text:
Mystery at the Museum
The year is 1929, and a new museum is opening in the city. The most elite members of society have been invited to The Gala, a masquerade ball, to preview some of the museum's interesting and unique exhibits from around the world. Much to the dismay of museum officials, they have discovered valuable artifacts have gone missing. Museum staff have asked the guests to help solve the mystery of the missing artifacts.


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It's the start of Take A Loved One To The Doctor season and we're excited to start it with comedian Deon Cole!
Cole has dedicated himself to a healthy lifestyle especially with his crazy schedule in the entertainment industry.
"As long as you keep getting ladies you'll never know that your fat," says Cole. He didn't know he had to lose weight! "Ohhhh I'm 265 pounds, that's why. I'm the cute chunky dude. The teddy bear," exclaimed Cole.
Having so many projects at once, Cole admits that eating right can be hard for him. "Me and Satan battle every day over Twizzlers and donuts, " he laughed.
"I think it was just you know man just watching myself. If you watch yourself enough on tv shows you say 'okay I got to change something,'" explains Cole on the turning point for him on improving his health.
Like BlackAmericaWeb.com on Facebook. Follow us on Twitter and Instagram
Celebrity Weight Loss Spokespersons
Celebrity Weight Loss Spokespersons
1. EJ Johnson1 of 11
2. Most Recently, Janet Jackson for Nutrisystems.2 of 11
3. One of the most successful is Jennifer Hudson. Lost 80 lbs.3 of 11
4. Mariah Carey is currently the spokesperson for Jenny Craig.4 of 11
5. Phylicia Rashad lost 35 lbs. in 8 months with Jenny Craig.5 of 11
6. Charles Barkley started Weight Watchers last fall and has lost 42 lbs.6 of 11
7. Marie Osmond lost 50 lbs. with Nutrisystems.7 of 11
8. Valerie Bertinelli lost 49 lbs. with Jenny Craig.8 of 11
9. Kirstie Alley has switched from Jenny Craig to Organic Liaisons.9 of 11
10. Kelly Preston has lost 39 lbs. with Organic Liaisons.10 of 11
11. Queen Latifah as endorsed Weight Watchers, Jenny Craig & Curvation.11 of 11
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Deon Cole: 'Me And Satan Battle Every Day Over Twizzlers & Donuts' was originally published on blackamericaweb.com


text:
Sometimes I don't have time to sit down and write. Instead I want to just give snippets. Or bullet points just share little bits here that I don't want to forget. So, I'm going to do just that and call it, "This Week" and I hope you join me. Link up and let me know about your week.
- Razor came home one day from work and had funny stories to tell about his day. A new employee had started and was doing some wacky things. Razor was so astonished at some of his behavior. He said the guy was, "off the blue and out of the wall."
- We like to call these things Razor-isms in our house.
- We've lived in our house for nine years and for the entirety of that time one bathroom toilet only ever fully flushes every other time. Too much information? Just this week my 11 year old daughter discovered that if she holds the handle down until the flush is a full on flush, it will completely flush. Every! Single! Time!
- The above bullet point gives me such complete joy.
- And I consider the same bullet point the greatest discovery of the 21st century. No exaggeration.
- Cause I'm not an over reactor.
- Just ask my kids.
- I've got several quilts at my long arm quilter and I'm itching to bind them.
- My oldest started high school yesterday.
- Deep, deep breath.
- More on that subject soon I'm sure.
So, won't you join me and tell me about your week?


text:
Lawd some Jamaicans needs help. Ignorance is bliss I guess.
FAME FM's Uncensored hosted by Krystal Tomlinson and the ever uncomfortable DJ Colin Hines when it comes to topics on homosexuality or as in last evening's show on whether or not men who have anal sex with women or receive or accede to women's wishes to penetrate them are gay? Proved we have a long way to go in this country in as far as the understanding of sexual orientation and such are concerned and as for the Twitter/Facebook comments is just sickening really; how backward we are as a country yet still despite so much information available at our fingertips literally.
Persons behind a microphone frankly in my view need to be well rounded and be reminded that even if they hold personal positions one is hosting a show and all points should contend in the proper exchange of ideas or information. This is not just a FAME FM problem as I find myself having to stomach for purposes of determining reality some rather inane discourse these days on radio as all kinds of antigay venom comes forth; silly season anyone? Especially when it comes to this business of referendum on buggery calls.
Thankfully Sexologist, Columnist & former radio show host on Nationwide Radio's 'All Woman' Dr Shelly Ann Weeks was in house though late and another sexuality expert for the first half and even with good information flowing from both the 'anal is gay' analogy kept creeping into the conversation which sometimes descended into a shouting match. Dr Shelly Ann debunked it quickly by asking why have the hosts had designated anal as gay and who determined it so if persons choose to practice anal sex in heterosexual unions?
"I don't have a gay part of my body" Dr Weeks said.
Colin Hines as usual cried foul from the beginning of the discussion and a male guest who came on who penetrates women anally was almost raked over the coals for his choice although he said he is not sexually attracted to men. I was pleased that Dr Weeks also explained that not all gay men indulge in anal penetration and do other things otherwise known as outer-course or non-penetrative activities; she teased Colin Hines that if he tried it he might like it; to which he got a little testy.
Then came the rape versus buggery argument where a male guest who says he retails sex toys dismissed anal sex without consent as rape but thankfully again Dr Shelly Ann Weeks debunked that thought instantly; she clearly stated rape is rape whether it was anal or vaginal penetration.
The question of young teens or adolescent girls who want to keep their virginity and who prefer or are forced to have unprotected anal sex so as to keep clear came up as a dangerous alternative if the right precautions were not taken; thankfully Dr Shelly again came to save the day as to safer anal sex, condom usage, lubrication, PH balance and diseases such as Hepatitis B etc. I was deeply disturbed as to the level of discourse at some points in the hour long show; save and except for Krystal Tomlinson's forward thinking there clearly needs to be a serious campaign of some kind or discussion on buggery, anal health, erogenous zones, human sexuality and what homosexuality actually is. Anal sex does not make someone gay and the buggery law in Jamaica is not just only for gay or bisexual men who practice anal penetration with other men.
Then came the practice of rimming or anal oral play as introduced by Krystal Tomlinson and the products on the market with Colin Hines expressing that the discussion was disturbing but the male guest by phone who has anal sex with women intervened and said that if persons believe that a man who penetrates a woman is gay and that is revolving around fear which could explain homophobic violence in Jamaica. He then asked how two men or two women in bed affect me or my life. To which Colin Hines gave the usually crappy correct answer in homophobes eyes that of the anus being the anus; and it's not for sex; and he does not need lubricants and such as vaginas already have that naturally but Dr Shelly Ann Weeks intervened yet again to say that not all women lube naturally and require purchasing items to aid their sexual exploration. Then came the supposition of whether or not persons can be trusted although and those who "bun it out" (public abhorrence to anal sex) in public and then do it in private in other words are effectively pious hypocrites via public homophobia but have private fetishes and therefore should not be two-faced about it.
"I think we need to take the gayness off the table completely" Dr Weeks continued. Krystal Tomlinson had suggested it was gayish for a man to have anal sex with women as he may also be interested in men seeing it is the same orifice.
Colin asked the telephone male guest:
"A man being penetrated by a woman in his 'bahind' (colloquial for behind) is that gay?"
To which he said he does not know as he has never had that requested of him or had it done to him.
Sexuality is so beautiful and lovely Dr Shelly Ann Weeks outlined and parts of the body have several neurons and membranes etc and then the male sex toy retailer went down the road of labels such as BATTYMAN which he spelt out on air and when challenged by Dr Weeks as to everyone having ears, nipples, lips he then went on to suggest more lables such as the ridiculous ear man or nippleman or a bottomist; but it is not gay to which I just shook my head as it took so long near the end of the show to finally get some sense coming in the exchange in regards to him.
The use of the term 'tumble bug' especially by Colin Hines kept creeping in the exchange and is a stigmatizing term; I swear Colin Hines needs an intervention or change him as host. Other strange comments from Colin included:
"I am one of the idiots out there if I'm inclined to have anal sex then you're inclined to have homosexual sex ..... that's just me."
"Anal sex, no thank you"
"What if someone were to say to you, you allow a woman to penetrate you; what's to stop you from allowing a man to?"
"Are there no boundaries?" (Colin's usual pet peeve, playing into the antigay advocacy tagline of moral nihilism).
Dr Shelly Ann Weeks responded appropriately to the first comment:
In other words it amounts to sexual orientation.
Dr Weeks also responded to his third comment/question:
"The only difference a man has anatomically is fact that a man has a penis and a woman has a vagina; both of us have nipples; both of us have nose; both of us have eyes; both of us have butt cheeks; both of us have anuses. If you're gonna say that rule about the anus then if a man kisses a woman what is to stop him from kissing another man?
Or if a man nibbles on a woman's nipple, what's stopping him from doing it to another man; so why is it we just zero in on the anus and decide that anything that a man does to a woman's anus he will automatically do it to a man's anus?"
Krystal Tomlinson interjected:
"Similarly in receiving a blow job ........ If the context is all eggs its eggs then all mouth is mouth; if you receive from a woman then you'll receive it from a man ....... we don't extend the logic that far."
Colin Hines responded, "Then may God help unu" (you) and he continued that he felt anal sex is not supposed to happen and held his hardened position on the matter, he then ended by saying there is no redeeming quality in anal sex.
She said in part:
"A man's anus might turn him on but he is not attracted to a man" which to me was the line for the night as it debunked the belief that sexual practice automatically determines sexual orientation especially when it comes to anal sex.
"A man who may want his woman to penetrate him it's because he is stimulated by his anus; it turns him on because different parts of our body; some of us our breasts don't turn us on while some of us we touch it and there is a trigger....." she continued.
On the matter of a man on the receptive end another guest who arrived later in the show claimed that if the man penetrates a woman anally that does not mean he is gay but if he wants to have penetration done to him or if he accedes to his woman's request or demands by her wearing a strap on for example then he is gay or inclined to have a man penetrate him. That female speaker was supposed to be a university student ...... sigh, help us lord. Fingers and other sex toys were not mentioned as part of the items substituted for such sexual play. Then came the usual "one way street barb" by the sex toy retailer, I am disappointed that for someone in the sex industry and who be of an opened mind he should be so ignorant and display such on national radio of all places; I wouldn't patronise his shop or encourage persons to do so at all. He claimed that a woman had asked of him to perform anal sex on her and he promptly put her out of his house the evening in question as it totally turned him off.
Krystal Tomlinson was forced to do an intervention via Wikipedia as she read what the meaning of gay was and so on related to homosexuality. The discussion was trivial though in my view and the teaching moments were lost at some stages as shouting or talkover blocked the information.
Krystal asked the late arrive/female student that ".......the idea of a man surrendering his anus for penetration equals .......?
To which she answered:
"Well it takes away from what the fantasy should be....." Dr Weeks correctly intervened and suggested the word 'should' was problematic as that an agreement or consent is expected by the parties involved and to each their own.
"Who makes that determination though?" asked Dr Weeks.
I pray for the day when I can hear some sensible discourse on homosexuality and anal sex more frequently and not the stuff that is broadcast these days. I recently heard Pastor Aaron Dumas aka "Tell Me Pastor" of Star News on Power 106FM with the same garbage as Colin Hines and as a psychologist correlating anal sex to homosexuality despite the fact that the Diagnostic Statistical Manual, DSM that guides all psychologists and psychiatrists does not see homosexuality as a disorder from as early as 1973; but he chooses to operate outside its sphere. He has also gone as far to encourage reparative therapy on numerous occasions despite the proof is out there that such a practice can be problematic to persons who so engage.
Peace & tolerance