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Tuesday, October 06, 2009
idea: the LRD (life requirements document)
Recently I've come to appreciate that there's a document that must be written prior to the MRD.
It has nothing to do with your market, your products, or your company. It has everything to do with you.
I can't take credit for this - my wife made it clear to me that I needed to write down "what I wanted" if I was going to conduct a successful search, whether it was for consulting clients or a full-time gig.
"If you're such a hot-shot product manager, Bob, where are your requirements? Have you written down what you want, what's important to you, and what you will and won't accept? I think I recall someone saying 'if it's not written down it's not real' so get busy."
And so was born the LRD, or "life requirements document".
My headings are values, work (vocation), work (avocation), family, location, priorities, outcomes and challenges. Your headings will be your headings. Like the MRD, it is a living document.
I'm sure there are folks out there who are very adept at the "writing down of goals" part of this thing. But what I think is illuminating was the idea of treating it like a PM document, and as a private precursor to the MRD.
So where the MRD helps you understand:
Who are we selling this product to?
How are we going to sell this product?
What is the competitive landscape we're selling into?
What are the sizes of our buyer segments?
The LRD helps you understand:
What sorts of problems are you interested in solving?
What sort of customers are you interested in helping?
What markets are interesting to you?
What sort of people do you want to work with?
What motivates you?
What will make you feel like you've "won"?
What constraints do you need to work around?
What other activities do you need to pursue to make you feel "complete"?
What gaps exist in your capabilities that you must address or can safely ignore?
I could go on like this for a while, but you get the idea.
I've written a lot of MRDs for products and customers that frankly I wasn't all that interested in. Maybe it's a function of age, experience and scar tissue, but I am very focused today on making meaning, not just money.
If you're staring down the barrel of another development adventure and wondering what your life has come to, perhaps a little time spent writing your own requirements would help you understand whether or not you're doing work that is going to meet those requirements.
3 comments:
- Chris Cummings said...
I don't usually like to post "ditto" comments or "love it!" comments. But I just really like the thoughts in this post. Answering these kinds of questions can help make decisions in your life - maybe, not easier, but at least rooted in something you can understand and believe in.
- Todd Wyder said...
Bob,great article. I have always found that the best way to achieve success is to focus on something one can be really passionate about. Then, success is contagious.
- Tim Johnson said...
There was seminal book (for me, anyway) from the 80's called, "Go Hire Yourself an Employer" that used similar techniques to help people craft a career view and a functional resume.
The tenets, for me, have evolved into answering two questions in order to get the product marketing process kicked off: "Who cares and why is that important to them?" It only stands to reason that turning the same process on yourself is how you are going to be happy and successful - and that you know what "done" looks like.
Great post. Thanks.


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(Written in 2004)
I bought a Family Grain Mill first, because I liked the name, the "easy-turning" claim, and it was cheap. It did turn very easily, yes, but the flour was coarse. It made really good bread, but you cannot make cookies or pie crust out of it. The brownies I made fell apart and pie crust was impossible. If I ran the flour through twice or three times, it would start to turn into what I would describe as fine flour. I sent it back, and paid $30 shipping both ways to find out the hard way that "fine flour" is the coarsest kind of flour, just like "large" is the smallest size of clothes dryer. If you want a large dryer, you have to buy a "super-capacity", and if you want fine flour, you have to search the description for modifiers like "powder-fine flour".
Then Lehmans had their Christmas sale on their "Lehman's Best" mill with both iron and stone burrs for less than the price the mill usually is, so I bought one. Drawbacks I noticed right away-- the design of the clamp is so deep that you need at least a 2" lip on your counter or it won't fit. And the grain hopper is a huge plastic thing that just rests in a receptacle-- one bump of an elbow and you've got five cups of wheat all over the floor!
Then I cranked the handle. Around two times and I knew I had another mistake on my hands. It's nothing a Clydesdale couldn't handle! It's like, *heave*, up one side, *grunt* down the other, *hurg* up this side again, *haul* down the other. I did some experimentation, and discovered that with the stone burrs and the right setting, I could produce what it was fair to say was "fine flour", with only as much effort as the average aerobic workout or shoveling of snow. I'd be in a sweat after five minutes, and take five minutes to rest; go again another five, and just think about what fine arm muscles I was building, and upper-body strength's a thing most women need more of, isn't it? After only forty-five minutes, I'd have five or six cups of flour for bread-- if the kids hadn't distracted me before that time. Forty-five minutes is rather long for Mother to be off the scene, and there's no way any of the kids could do the cranking. The kids had really enjoyed turning the Family Grain Mill, and watching the flour pour out! They tried to crank this one and were not able to. I have three year old twin boys, and if one of them would hang his entire weight on that handle it would go down slowly, but he certainly couldn't get it back up the other side. So I had to watch their disappointment as well as my own! Another thing-- the stone burrs weren't solid stone, and they were still shedding little rocks even after I'd put multiple batches of flour through the machine. My husband had just had his first broken tooth, so he wasn't in the mood for finding rocks in his bread. He insisted I use the iron burrs, but with iron burrs it's even harder and the flour is even coarser. At least the Family Grain Mill had had a steel blade, and made good bread! I was wishing I had kept it, while the second expensive mistake sat there on the counter.
Third option, the Country Living Mill. I'd heard nothing but good things on the internet, so I ordered one. It was quite a bit too much money for me, especially after I'd wasted $60 on the two-way shipping of the previous two mistakes. But I want a hand mill, I've wanted one for a long time. I told my long-suffering husband that I promised to be happy with this one, and it would definitely be the last mill and I would keep it. When it arrived I was almost afraid to set it up. But I did, and it was perfect! With the plates as tight as they arrived, the flour was as soft and fine as baby powder. I couldn't believe it. I loosened them a partial turn, and still the flour was extremely fine and soft, much softer than Lehman's stone burrs, and with the power bar on, it was extremely easy to turn. That handle is so BIG and easy to grab! You don't have to grip the handle hard, which is easier on the wrists. I can push it around by holding the handle lightly. One of the three-year-olds climbed up on a chair and started cranking, and he was able to do it.
To test the speeds I'd been reading about on the net, I started cranking in a comfortable but steady fashion with one eye on the clock, and got three cups in six minutes, beautiful fine flour too. This means to make six cups for my usual bread recipe, I'll have to stand there for twelve minutes. That is doable.
My daughter stood there flipping through a catalog with one hand, cranking with the other, and pretty soon we made cookies out of the flour. When we came in from outdoors and I paused to clean up the entryway, I said, "Go crank some flour!" and by the time I came to the kitchen, there was enough for the waffles. This is COOL. I made bread and muffins, then needed more flour for putting in the casserole so I hopped over there and turned for one and a half minutes-- fresh flour.
There are two unexpected surprises with having this mill clamped to my counter. #1, that hopper on top is raised from the counter and steady, not wiggly like the other ones, so I've started setting my spiral recipe book on top of it. That way it's up at a handy level for reading and out of the way of the stuff on the counter, safe from being spilled on. #2, the mill is a visitor-magnet. People who wander into the kitchen usually end up leaning against the counter being in the way, but they can't resist the uniqueness of the hand mill, and end up cranking the handle, making admiring exclamations and making flour for me. So I get a lot of flour I didn't crank, and the idle hands are doing something useful and staying out of the cookie dough.
So I am happy. I LIKE this thing. It's a beautiful mill, country-looking and old-fashioned, yet sturdy and streamlined at the same time. Fine flour. Easy to turn. Gets the job done quick. I'd say it's worth the money I spent for it AND the money I spent on the shipping of the other two-- because in the end, I have a really superior product that is perfect in every way!

subset: commoncrawl


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Dramatic landscape and planting provide the backdrop to contemplative but inspirational artworks. More than twenty artists, including five members of the Royal Academy of Arts – James Turrell, Richard Long, David Nash, Peter Randall-Page and Tim Shaw – have interacted with the garden to create site-specific permanent works of art in Cornwall, that harmonise beautifully with the setting. The land also provides a forum for ever-changing temporary, or even ephemeral art in all its forms.
The concept is to have a balance of artwork and planting within a beautiful landscape – allowing room for all elements to flourish with the idea in mind that the number of artworks is kept limited but of high quality and presence.
Perhaps best known for his epic walks and stone intervention in wilderness locations, Richard Long on this occasion has chosen a work sympathetic to the garden and it's stunning view, inviting an inspection of a line of grass from the uppermost point of the garden – facing due south.
Temples are usually made of stone and stand still, glorifying mortal and immortal power. This temple is made from wood and moves between the power of wind and gravity, always at the mercy of nature and challenging our preconceptions of what we hold secure and stable in everyday life.
Carefully sited to sit comfortably in a pivotal point within the landscape, internal images present a 360° view of the gardens in a hypnotic and magical way. Images of the plants and views are often compared to landscape portraits – albeit alive with movement and light.


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Rodrigo Aguilar (Photo@ El Sol de Puebla)
On November 3rd, Monsignor Rodrigo Aguilar was named by Pope Francis as Bishop of San Cristobal de Las Casas. The new bishop, born in Valle de Santiago, Guanajuato, was bishop of the Diocese of Tehuacan since January 30th, 2006. Prior to that diocese, he had headed the Diocese of Matehuala, Jalisco.
The new Bishop Aguilar follows in the footsteps of others, Bartolome de Las Casas (1543-1550), Samuel Ruiz Garcia (1959-2000) and his predecessor Felipe Arizmendi Esquivel (2000-2017).
According to the Yucatan newspaper, "they asked in the diocese of San Cristobal de las Casas that whoever arrived had episcopal experience and work in indigenous towns, since the diocese is mostly indigenous."
In a statement on the episcopal succession, Bishop Arizmendi mentioned about his successor "that Monseñor Ruiz García fought hard with persecution, for the defense and dignity of the native peoples, so that their rights were respected. He promoted peace, always with the foundation of truth and justice. You should not lose your pastoral heritage" and also in the letter gave "thanks to God and the Catholic community for the almost 27 years of episcopal service in Chiapas: a little over nine years in Tapachula, where I arrived on March 7, 1991, and 17 and a half years in San Cristobal de Las Casas, from May 1st, 2000 to date."
For more information in Spanish:
El Papa nombra a Rodrigo Aguilar obispo de San Cristóbal de las Casas (El Proceso, 3 de noviembre de 2017)
Defensa de los indígenas debe prevalecer: Arizmendi (Cuarto Poder, 6 de noviembre de 2017)
Nombran a Rodrigo Aguilar como obispo de San Cristóbal de las Casas (El Sol de Puebla, 3 de noviembre de 2017)
Se despide de Chiapas (Diario de Yucatán, 4 de noviembre de 2017)
For more information from SIPAZ:
Chiapas: El obispo Felipe Arzimendi presenta su renuncia al Papa (8 de mayo de 2015)


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3pcs/bag White 22cm Christmas Snowflake Hanging Decoration Tree Home Festival Decor
Color: White Material : plastic Quantity:10Set (30pcs) Size:22cm/8.6\'\' Length (approx) Can stick on the glass, hung on the Christmas tree, cane, lei, can also take in hand to dance to the party! Note: Due to the difference between different monitors, the picture may not reflect the actual color of the item. Thank you! Package includes: 10 Set X Christmas Snowflake 22CM
Tags: decorated black christmas tree, tree branch wall decor, decorate small christmas tree, Cheap decorated black christmas tree, High Quality tree branch wall decor, China decorate small christmas tree Suppliers.


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Man charged over drought cash claimBy Country News
A Queensland man has been accused of trying to falsely claim more than $60000 intended to help drought-stricken farmers.
The Cunnamulla man, 41, was charged with 41 charges, including five counts of fraud and 18 counts of forgery on December 6.
The Department of Agriculture and Fisheries referred the matter to police last month alleging the man falsified documents to claim money under the Drought Relief Assistance Scheme.
Police said it was disappointing someone had allegedly tried to defraud the scheme while other farmers were genuinely doing it tough.
''We take offences like this quite seriously as it has the potential to affect those who genuinely need and deserve this assistance,'' Queensland police said.
The man is due to appear in St George Magistrates' Court on January 22.


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Pennsylvania Pepper
There's something almost magical, and yet incredibly simple about a top-quality gourmet pepper blend like our Pennsylvania Pepper. Just about everybody grew up with those familiar salt and pepper shakers on their tables. While the shape of the shakers would vary from house to house, the contents wouldn't. We've had both home cooks and some of our wholesale restaurant customers fall head over heels in love with this gourmet pepper blend and we've heard from more than a few tell us that they've made our Pennsylvania Pepper a permanent replacement to the ground pepper and even peppermills on their kitchen and dining room tables. For some, they've even discarded the salt altogether in favor of adding only the complex flavor that our Pennsylvania Pepper can give to nearly any dish.
Black pepper, Piper Nigrum, is the most traded spice in the world. It is ubiquitous in the modern world as a seasoning. Pepper derives its spicy heat from the chemical compound piperine. Black pepper contains between 4.6% and 9.7% piperine by volume, and white pepper contains a bit more than that. By weight, refined piperine is about one percent as hot as the capsaicin compound found in chile peppers. Capsaicin is the compound that makes chile peppers spicy.
The Story Behind Our Pennsylvania Pepper
Pennsylvania Pepper was the second blend that we created from scratch when we first started our business back in 2008, right after our Manzanillo Seasoning. Prior to starting Spices Inc we of course placed orders with many of the companies that we felt would be our competitors and came across a pepper blend that we liked so much that it inspired us to start experimenting in the kitchen to create one of our own for us to sell. When creating this blend, we also set out to make sure that it was salt free to boot, since we weren't particularly fond of salt in our food to begin with and we knew this blend was going to be something special and popular with our customers. While we didn't know it at the time, creating this blend was also the start of what would turn out to be our very comprehensive selection of salt free seasonings.
Today Pennsylvania Pepper is one of our signature blends, one of the most popular samples that we send out to first time customers, one of our most reviewed products, and also one that is most likely to be shared by our customers with close friends and family.
Flavor Profile
In addition to the peppery flavor that you'd expect, you'll also pick up hints of garlic and even some gentle sweet notes provided by the green and roasted red bell peppers. The celery seed also gives it a bit of a vegetal flavor that adds to the complexity of this pepper blend.
This is our most popular salt free seasoning blend and it's stuffed full of zesty flavor without being hot! In addition to being salt free it's also is sugar free!
What's a Good Salt-Free Blend?
Our Pennsylvania Pepper makes for a fantastic salt-free blend. This blend can replace your standard salt and pepper combination and give you a much more interesting flavor profile without the added salt. We like how this blend stands up against regular ground pepper to taste more complex, and we love how we don't need salt to enhance the flavors of the dish! This blend takes all the hard work out of eating less salt!
Cooking with Pennsylvania Pepper
We use Pennsylvania Pepper on everything from grilled burgers, baked or grilled chicken, fish, scrambled eggs, omelettes, roasted, grilled or steamed vegetables and sprinkled on salads. While it's great as a finishing element of any dish, you can incorporate it into your cooking as well. Try it in homemade spaghetti sauce or mix it into your favorite mashed potato recipe. We like to use it as an ingredient in soups, particularly squash soups. It can be used to season bacon, add it to your marinade for meats and tofu, or incorporate it into stir fries. Replace regular cracked black pepper with Pennsylvania Pepper in your steak au poivre recipe to make a delicious recipe perfect.
Some of our favorite recipes using Pennsylvania Pepper are Italian Wedding Soup, Grilled Vegetable Sandwich and Wild Salmon with Romesco Sauce.
What's in Our Pennsylvania Pepper?
Hand blended in small batches with black pepper, onion, garlic, roasted red bell pepper, green bell pepper and celery seed.


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Goal And Advantages of an Architect
Clearly, the above situation is a bit extreme, and my former teammate was given forty eight hours inside which to straighten up the mess in her room; otherwise, she would have been kicked out of the dormitory and been compelled to pay a hefty positive. The point is this: organization ranks proper up there close to cleanliness. The extra organized your house is, the more presentable it will be not solely to those that come to visit with you and your family, but the extra presentable and welcoming it is going to be to you whenever you stroll in the door.
If you find yourself serious about the bathroom cabinets by way of type they can be put into two separate groups. You have got both your American fashion cupboards as well as your European model cupboards. The standard or American model cabinets will usually be enclosed within a body. Whereas the European type cupboards will include open edges that have what are often known as trim strips aligning the outside of them.
Memory foam pillows are good for aspect and back sleepers. Reminiscence foam is warmth sensitive and conforms to your head and neck as you lay on it. … Read More


text: Domain Registration .jeSearch Domains | Domains | Domain Extensions | .jeRate it: Domains .jeJE is the contry code ccTLD domain of Jersey. In a simple way a JE domain name serves to identify you with a name, product, brand, ... in the Internet through a web page or other services such as email. For example, if someone wants to see your web page that is under your JE domain name, they will write in a browser www.yourdomainname.je - Requirements .je - Domain register avaliable for every person, organization or Business who wants to register a .je de Jersey.Additional services- With the purchase of your .je domain you can select our DNS servers for the activation of your ".je" domain.- Entorno puts at your disposal with .je domain registration a wide range of services of hosting, virtual servers and SSL certificates.- If you are interested in recovering or monitoring a domain .je you can check our corporate services section.- When buying web domain with the .je extension we can help you in your online presence project with opensource applications such as Wordpress, Drupal, etc. or custom projects hosted on your .je web domainFeatures Registering a ccTLD domain .je from Jersey only you will have to complete an on-line registry form. Allowed characters: - Minimum: 3 - Maximum: 63 - Letters and numbers. - Hyphens ("-"), Hyphens are not allowed before or after the domain name. The registration is done for a year. How to renew To renew a ccTLD domain .je from Jersey the domain must be on the renewal period and it can be renewed for one year. The renewal period starts 40 days before the expiration date and the domain can be renewed next 30 days. After these 30 days please contact us if you are still interested in renewing the domain. How to transfer To transfer a ccTLD domain .je it is necessary: - The owner must send us a signed document with the logo company. We will pass the text of this document. - The domain must have been registered/active for at least 30 days. - The domain must be un-locked for transfer by the actual registry. If so, the client must contact the current registrar to un-lock the domain for transfer. The transfer usually completes within 5 and 10 days. We suggest you transfer your domain name enough days before expiration in order to avoid your transfer being denied. The domain is not renewed in the transfer. Owner change Contact with Entorno Digital in order to do a holder change for a domain .je Contacts and DNS update You can modify your contacts and DNS servers of your .je domains through you control panel on our website, on the field "REGISTERED USER" on our website. The changes have a cost. TLD Fees .jePeriodRegisterRenewalTransferUpdate1 year€240.00€120.00€40.00€20.00* Prices without VATIf you manage several .je domains or other ccTLD domains, please contact us to find out about our volume discounts.If you need any clarification to register .je domains or contract a hosting service please do not hesitate to contact us.93 594 21 01ContactOfficesContact +34 935 942 101 firstname.lastname@example.com


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Specific antibiotics linked to risk of hospital-acquired VRE infections
German researchers have found indications that the risk of acquiring healthcare-associated vancomycin-resistant enterococci (HA-VRE) is linked to the use of specific antimicrobial agents, according to a study yesterday in Antimicrobial Resistance and Infection Control.
The study, conducted at a hospital in Berlin from January 2014 through December 2015, included data on more than 200,000 patients from 61 wards, including surgical wards, medical wards, intensive care units (ICUs), and hemato-oncology wards. VRE isolates, both from clinical infection samples and colonized patients, were labeled as HA-VRE if they were identified 3 days or later after hospital admission, and otherwise as community-acquired (CA-VRE). The researchers also collected data on all antibacterials for systemic use to calculate ward-specific antibiotic consumption
Overall, 1,430 VRE cases were identified, with 409 (28.6%) considered hospital-acquired. The highest HA-VRE rates were observed in ICUs, and the lowest rates were on medical wards. Median antibiotic use on all wards was 76.8 defined daily doses (DDD) per 100 patient-days (PD), with use of broad-spectrum antibiotics (carbapenems, third-generation cephalosporins, and glycopeptides) 3 to 13-fold higher on ICUs compared with medical wards.
Using a multivariable regression model, the researchers determined that carbapenem use in the current month and glycopeptide use in the previous month increased the risk for HA-VRE by 1% per 1 DDD/100 PD and 3% per 1 DDD/100 PD, respectively. When just clinical VRE samples were considered, only glycopeptide use showed a statistically significant association. Detection of at least one patient on a ward with CA-VRE in the current month was found to nearly double the risk of having HA-VRE, a finding that suggests person-to-person transmission.
The authors say the study indicates that a multifaceted approach to lowering HA-VRE rates is required, "including prudent use of antimicrobial agents as well as implementation of and strict compliance to infection control measures to prevent VRE transmission."
Sep 13 Antimicrob Resist Infect Control study
EU initiates Joint Action to combat resistance continent-wide
A European Union Joint Action on Antimicrobial Resistance and Healthcare-Associated Infections (EU-JAMRAI) was launched yesterday at the French Ministry of Health in Paris. More than 44 partners and 22 collaborating stakeholders participated, according to a news release from the EU Consumers, Health, Agriculture and Food Executive Agency (CHAFEA).
"The Joint Action EU-JAMRAI aims to bring together the participating EU member states and international organizations, institutes, universities in order to contribute towards tackling antimicrobial resistance and healthcare-associated infections," CHAFEA said in the release. "It will capitalize on existing initiatives and propose concrete steps to reduce the burden of antimicrobial resistance."
EU-JAMRAI will identify the best programs for combating antimicrobial resistance (AMR) currently in use and examine how cooperation at the EU level can improve national AMR-related policies, according to a Science/Business story. The effort will also identify and test evidence-based measures to address AMR and hospital-acquired infections in different contexts and provide recommendations to policymakers.
EU-JAMRAI has a €4 million ($4.8 million) budget to support EU member states in developing and implementing national strategies, ensure a common approach in Europe to the global AMR action plan, and produce guidance documents and tools for member states, among other goals, the story said.
Sep 6 CHAFEA news release
Sep 12 Science/Business story
Sep 13 agenda of kickoff meeting
Antibiotic-resistant brucellosis case tied to raw milk
A person who consumed raw milk from the K-Bar Dairy in Paradise, Texas, is hospitalized with brucellosis, caused by a rifampin/penicillin-resistant strain of RB51 Brucella, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said in a Health Alert Network (HAN) statement yesterday. The Texas Department of State Health Services and the CDC are investigating the case.
According the CDC, milk samples from the dairy tested positive for the RB51 Brucella strain. People who consumed milk from the dairy between Jun 1 and Aug 7 should receive appropriate post-exposure prophylaxis, which is a combination of doxycycline and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole, for 21 days, the agency said.
Brucellosis is a serious infection that can lead to swelling of the heart, liver, and spleen. It commonly causes fever, sweating, malaise, and joint pain.
Sep 13 CDC HAN statement


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A Step Closer for Local Radioin Crewe and Nantwich
From Monday 21st November RedShift Radio are back on 87.7FM with their second 28-day broadcast of the year.
RedShift Radio, part of RedShift Media Services have been broadcasting online since September 2010 and are fast becoming a household name across Crewe, Nantwich and surrounding towns.
Living up to their motto of "Bringing Communities Together", the RedShift Radio team of over 50 dedicated volunteers present a broad range of shows appealing to all. From Toddler Talk and Grey Natter to Health & Healing and Charities Today, the two-hour radio shows are full of chat with interesting and inspiring guests, local news, travel and weather.
Children and young people are included in the programming and schools are invited to hire the studio for between six and 12 weeks to learn how to produce and present their very own radio programmes! Schools taking part this term and throughout the 87.7FM broadcast are: Brine Leas, Shavington High, Malbank Stapley Broad Lane and Highfields in Nantwich.
RedShift Radio have formed some strong partnerships with local organisations. On home match days at the Weaver Stadium, RedShift presenters commentate live on the Nantwich Town football matches and travel to away games as the official media partner to the club.
The relationships with local businesses continue to develop with strength and Dr Gav and Bizzy Lizzy hosting the South Cheshire Chamber of Commerce Awards on 2nd December at Crewe Hall. It was at the 2010 awards that Dr Gavin Hammond, co-founder of RedShift himself won the Young Business Person of the Year Award and he urges other businesses to enter.
Show your support of this much needed local radio station by tuning in to 87.7FM and having a listen. Any events, celebrations, dedications or requests can be sent in by text to 01270 262 262 or firstname.lastname@example.com
Redshift Radio are recommended by thebestof Crewe & Nantwich
Read here what people say about Redshift Radio
Jon O
Member since:
10th July 2012
Owner of thebestof Crewe & Nantwich a web portal for all the great things going on in our local commuinity


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Chuck Wysong
Executive Director
Mission Springs is led by a dedicated team of Christian men and women who desire to serve God in this unique camp ministry. Read more about each staff member below. You may also contact them directly.
Executive Director
Director of Business and Finance
Director of Youth and Adult Camps
Guest Services Director
Food Services Director
Outdoor Education Director
Programs Coordinator
Outdoor Education Associate Director
Marketing & Communications Coordinator
Retail Manager
Group Sales Coordinator
Adventures Coordinator
Hospitality Supervisor
Director of Youth
Program Assistant / Camp Registrar
Financial Controller
Executive Director
Husband, dad, friend, old surfer, golfer and love to read and lead! I am a communicator and have spoken to NFL chapels, NBA chapels, all school assemblies, weddings and special occasions. I now serve as the Executive Director of Mission Springs Camps and Conference Center here in the Santa Cruz Mountains of Scotts Valley, CA.
Site & Facilities Director
Director of Business and Finance
Clement obtained his degree in Accountancy from London School of Accountancy and a fellow of The Association of Costing and Executive Accountants. After many years of practical and teaching experience, he has distinguished himself in the Hospitality and Foodservice Industry. A widely published writer, Clement has authored several texts and references for the Hospitality and Foodservice Industry. Before joining Mission Springs as the Director of Business and Finance, Clement worked at Seascape Resort in Aptos. Clement will soon be married to his fiancé from Nigeria.
Director of Youth and Adult Camps
I grew up in Davis, CA and shortly after 8th grade accepted Christ while attending Summer Camp in the Santa Cruz Mountains. I quickly fell in love with Camping ministry and proceeded to work at Camp Hammer for five summers. My heart for ministry expanded and in 2006 I began working for Twin Lakes Church in Aptos as a High School Ministry Associate. There I met my bride Lacy and we were married in 2009 and moved to Fresno, CA to start a Middle School ministry at The Well Community Church. I went on to become the Director of Student Ministries and enjoyed five years of pouring into High School and Middle School students at The Well. In 2014 God called me and Lacy back to the Santa Cruz Mountains to be the Director of Youth Ministry at Mission Springs.
I love animals, and if i'm not walking my dogs you can catch me watching movies with Lacy, or going to the boardwalk with our 3 year old daughter Sage.
Guest Services Director
I started working in guest services at Mission Springs in 1991, but long before that, I worked in the dining room as a teenager. I guess I'm one of the old-timers now!
A California native, I love my crazy, beautiful town of Santa Cruz. Food is my passion; I love to read about food, watch the Cooking Channel, and cook, although my main hobby is going out to eat so that someone else will cook for me. I also like to proofread things, which I admit is kind of nerdy. The best thing about working at Mission Springs is the fun staff and hearing stories about how God has blessed those who retreat here. My favorite comment from a guest: "I infinity percent believe in God now; it's all because I came here."
Food Services Director
Hi! I am Rebecca Berroteran. I was born in Modesto California. I came to Mission Springs for the first time in the summer of 2001 as a summer staffer. Like many people who visit Mission Springs, I fell in love with this place. I moved here permanently in 2002. I also met my husband Greg Alexander in 2002 while I was working at the old Blockbuster Video in Scotts Valley. We were married in January 2007. I graduated from culinary school in 2009 then worked in some wonderful Santa Cruz establishments, but I finally made my way back to Mission Springs in March of 2012. I am so happy to be serving here; it is an incredible thing to work in a place so beautiful with so many wonderful people. Mission Springs has been a tremendous blessing for me and my family and we are so glad to be a part of this amazing community.
When I am not at work I enjoy reading, traveling, and playing with my dog Chancho.
Outdoor Education Director
I first fell in love with Mission Springs the summer of 2003 while working at one of our summer kids' camps. I spent two more summers at Mission Springs while completing my Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Education degrees at Trinity Western University in British Columbia, Canada. Excited to teach outside the classroom, I became a Naturalist at Mission Springs for the 2005/6 & 2006/7 seasons. I then moved to New Zealand for 2.5 years where I coordinated school groups as the Education and Activities Manager at a camp. I then returned to Mission Springs as the Assistant Director of Frontier Ranch and Adventure Programs Coordinator, serving in that role for three year. I've had the honor of being the Director of Outdoor Education since February 2013. I love combining my passions for education and camp as I guide our amazing Naturalists in providing a vibrant outdoor education experience for students. I personally come alive when in nature, as I am often found trail running, surfing, hiking, and traveling.
Programs Coordinator
I was born and raised in Grand Rapids, Michigan. I grew up spending my summers swimming in the Great Lakes (Fresh Coast Best Coast) and my winters snowmobiling in below zero windchills. I attended Michigan State University (go green) where I studied both psychology and criminal justice. During college, I spent three summers on summer staff at Frontier Ranch and I fell in love with camping ministry, redwood trees, and the west coast. My favorite part about working at Mission Springs/Frontier Ranch is that I get to create an environment where kids get to be kids AND I get to sing/dance/talk about the Gospel. This job rules. In my free time, I can be found looking for sea glass, working on a puzzle, or watching crime shows.
Outdoor Education Associate Director
I grew up in Illinois and attended North Park University, which introduced me to Mission Springs. I came to work on summer staff after graduating, and fell in love with the Santa Cruz area. Since that time, I have lived in Michigan and Arizona, but returned to Mission Springs because of the redwoods, ocean, and community. I have worked in the kitchen, adventure department, maintenance, and now Outdoor Education. I love the outdoors and have a passion for teaching others about the environment. I enjoy rock climbing, hiking, gardening, listening to podcasts, and identifying plants on our trails. I love being near the ocean, exploring tide pools, and SCUBA diving. I am constantly in awe of the underwater world that is so close to us. I am grateful to work with a great Outdoor Education team, and to promote stewardship of our environment to students, teachers, chaperones, and fellow staff!
Marketing & Communications Coordinator
Born and raised in Eastern Iowa, Adam spent much of his time outdoors exploring the woodlands and prairies of the Midwest. He grew up heavily involved in the local Covenant church. After working at summer camps in the northeast Iowa for 3 consecutive years Adam decided to go into camp ministry full-time with a growing passion of providing safe spaces for youth, adults, and families to step out of their routines & reset spiritually, physically, emotionally, and relationally with others. After graduating from Iowa State University with a Communication Studies B.A., Adam came to California excited to join the Mission Springs team.
Retail Manager
Born and raised in California, I've lived in the Santa Cruz area since 1984. I live in Soquel with my husband, Scott, and our two dogs. We have one daughter (Lilly), who lives in Boulder, CO.
My background is sales, marketing, training and fund development. I've worked in the software industry, UC Santa Cruz and Girl Scouts. I was also a licensed real estate agent for ten years.
I started working for Mission Springs in November of 2016. What I love most about working at Mission Springs is the ministry and beautiful environment. So many wonderful people come into the gift shop and I love meeting and talking with them.
When I'm not working, I love to travel, read and do anything crafty. I make jewelry and other items from recycled and re-purposed items so you may run into me selling at a craft fair someday.
Group Sales Coordinator
Rachel grew up in Orange County, CA attending camp throughout her youth. She is an alumnus of Humboldt State University where she received her Bachelor's degree in Recreation Administration. After college she worked for Marriott and Wyndham resorts in various departments. Rachel served as an intern at Mission Springs 2011-2013 during which time she met her husband. Following her internship, Rachel served as a youth pastor at a local church then came back to Mission Springs full time in 2016 in group sales. She lives at Mount Hermon with her husband Matt, daughter Alexandra, sons Landon and Ashton where she enjoys reading, baking cookies and a good cup of coffee.
Adventures Coordinator
I was born in Santa Cruz, but grew up in Kingsburg, CA. I was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes in junior high and it changed my entire life; my whole world was flipped upside-down. Through that hard time I was reminded how much God loves me, and how much love He has for everyone! I graduated from Fresno Pacific University with a degree in Contemporary Christian Ministries. I started at Mission Springs in 2012 as a Frontier Ranch Ropes Instructor. It was that summer that I fell in love with the Christian Camping world and all that it entails! I worked at Frontier for four more summers. For the past two years I was an Adventure/Recreation intern at Mount Hermon, and now I'm back at Mission Springs! I'm excited to help serve others and bring closer to Christ through all of the ropes courses and adventures that Mission Springs has.
When I'm not working, you might find me in a hammock reading a book or two…or seven, surfing, playing music, water coloring, fixing my bike, or somewhere down by the ocean.
Hospitality Supervisor
Amanda first came to Mission Springs as an Outdoor Education student in 6th and 7th grade, while growing up in Campbell, CA. When she was considering camps to apply to for summer jobs while finishing up my Business degree at Biola University, she decided she wanted to work at a camp that had impacted her life growing up. Amanda worked on Conference Center summer staff for three summers in Retail and the Administrative Office, serving many, many Oreo milkshakes, and answering many, many phone calls. Since graduation, she came on staff year round in a variety of roles, from intern to ropes to housekeeping, and now works with guest groups making their retreat visions become reality!
In her free time, Amanda loves reading, enjoying the beautiful surroundings of Santa Cruz, hanging out with friends and family, and going to SF Giants games!
Director of Youth
Jeff grew up the in small town of Clymer, New York. His family still owns the general store next to the only stop light in town. He went to school in Rochester, NY to study design and photography and then moved to California to pursue ministry. Took a job at Camp Hammer in Boulder Creek, CA where he fell in love with the redwoods and a girl from Seattle. Jeff and his wife, Erin have lived in the area for ten years and love hiking, skiing, watching/discussing great movies, and eating amazing tacos.
Special Diet Coordinator
Program Assistant / Camp Registrar
I joined the Mission Springs team in March of 2007, the days of paper registrations and mailing out of registration information to parents and conference attendees. What changes have been made to the registration process and how my position has evolved throughout the years! Born on the east coast, I still miss the changes of the seasons but am able to enjoy a smidgeon of color changes through my corner office window. A studio art major in college with an emphasis in bronze casting, I have had a varied career starting with customer service to inside sales, outside sales, back to school for an ECE degree to teach 10 years at Mount Hermon Playschool, and I've spent since 2007 here at Mission Springs! It is a joy to work with wonderful people God has put in my life.
Financial Controller
I was born the daughter of two military parents in West Virginia and have lived in several places across the US and then in Germany for a time. I graduated from Lompoc High School and earned by B.S. in Accounting at Azusa Pacific University, where I met the love of my life, Matt. I completed my CPA certificate and worked as an accountant in public and private sectors in the L.A. area before the Lord moved us to Northern California and into full-time ministry. I helped Matt start Calvary Chapel Gilroy where we served for 12 years and then the Lord moved us to Scotts Valley in 2012, where I have the privilege of serving alongside my husband as he pastors ReGeneration Church. I began working in the Business Dept. at Mission Springs within the first few months of moving here and am currently the Financial Controller. The Lord has blessed us with 5 wonderful children ages 25 to 12 who love the area and the memories they have made at Frontier Ranch. I have the joy of doing ministry both at work as I support the vision and people of Mission Springs and outside of work ministering to those the Lord brings into my life.


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closure of SR 63 closure scheduled
Warren County (Tuesday,
Oct. 13, 2015) –Culvert work will require a 12-day closure of State Route
63, beginning Monday, Oct. 26.
SR 63 will be closed between McClure Road and SR 741
with westbound traffic detoured to SR 123 to SR 122 to SR 741; eastbound
traffic will be detoured to SR 741 to SR 122 to SR 123.
The closure will begin at 7 a.m. Monday, Oct 26, and
reopen to traffic by 4 p.m. Friday, Nov. 6.
boards and/or signs will be in place to alert motorists of the upcoming road
and lane closures. To help ensure the safety of the
construction workers as well as the traveling public, motorists should remain
alert, reduce their speed and watch for stopped traffic while passing through
the work zone.
more information contact:
Smigielski, Public Information Officer, at (513) 933-6511
Lyons, Public Information Specialist, at (513) 933-6534


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Lively times at Buxton Museum
While these events aren't being organised by Stone and Water, artists who lead our events are leading these ones so we thought you might like to join in!
All events
Venue: Buxton Museum and Art Gallery, Terrace Road, Buxton, SK17 6DA
Times: 10am – 12noon
Booking: no booking necessary, just turn up and join in – but allow 45 minutes for making things
Costs: free events, just bring yourself and a cheerful grown-up if you are 7 years old or less
Ice Age Life
Wednesday 29th July
Step back in time with artist and storyteller Gordon from Creeping Toad and make your own model of Peak District life in a colder age. Inspired by mammoths and sabre-tooths, cave lions and reindeer we'll make pop-up landscapes and the animals and people who lived here 10,000 years ago
Peg People of the Peaks
Wednesday 12th August
From elegant Victorian ladies to medieval villains, Norman knights to Robin Hood, all sorts of people have visited the Peaks. Artist Sarah Males will help you make your own characters, real or imaginary, nice or nasty, from the history of the Peaks
Lost tales of the Peaks
Wednesday 19th August
using photos of local buildings and places that feature in local stories, Gordon the Toad will tell old stories and help us invent new ones. From murder mysteries to wild romances, treasure hunts and terrible ghosts, we'll spin new stories out of the hills, dales and buildings of the Peaks


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Copyright © Panorama Group 1991 - 2020
In KB "Panorama" the GIS Constructor version 12.3.2 the GIS is developed for operating system MSVS 3.0. The new version adds the ability to build a surface profile along a specified line or selected object using a matrix of heights. The result is displayed in a window as a graph, with help of which the user can interactively determine the elevation parameters at the selected point (profile height, degree of slope). Automatically calculates the elevation's values of current and end points that must be added to ensure line of sight. The building results can be exported to a text or graphic file (bmp, png, jpeg). Import of high-altitude data from the exchange format grd is realized.
The visual component of animation of objects of a vector map is added. It allows you graphically to select an arbitrary set of objects with a given color and periodicity. With this functionality, you can implement an animated representation of the result of a search or the operations of adding, deleting, editing objects. Selection of objects for marking is carried out using standard tools of work with the context of the search from the MAPAPI interface. The animation component can be used in combination with the Qt framework's drawing tools to implement arbitrary dynamic selection of spatial data.
The set of test examples is expanded, including: creating of a matrix of qualities, constructions of a visibility area, import of the height data from the grd format, a changing the coordinates of the metrics of object. The functionality of the basic demonstration example mapview is supplemented by map turn, change of parameters of displaying the spatial data (brightness, contrast, transparency), moving of window to the point and center of the object, displaying the cursor coordinates in the status bar.
In the print component, the functionality of outputting spatial data to a physical printer is realized. There is increased the maximum number of processed search contexts for processing vector maps with a large number of sheets in the search component. The processing of the classifier in the component of the road graph is improved.
GIS Constructor is a set of geoinformation components for use in the visual programming environment of Qt Designer, which allows you to develop your own GIS applications. The visualization of the contents of digital maps is made in conventional symbols adopted for topographic, geographical and various special maps. Geoinformation system has ample opportunities for performing calculations, for providing display of spatial data on various graphic devices in standard and user systems of conventional symbols. The main functions can be executed in multithreaded mode. It supports automatic optimization of used memory for processing large amounts of data (tens of gigabytes) on limited resources (hundreds of megabytes).
The toolkit is adapted to work on a wide range of platforms and supports operating systems such as Astra Linux SE, MSVS, CRTOS Neutrino, Elbrus, Zarya, Ubuntu, Alt Linux, QNX, CentOS and others. It can be used in computer complexes with processors of architectures ARMv7, Elbrus, PowerPC, Intel x86, Intel x64 and others.
The new version of the program is available for download in the
On the geoportal
Publishing of updates in bank of spatial data is made by using the program of
Free maps on the basis of OpenStreetMap data are available for download on the page "Digital maps and images".
In KB "Panorama" the
The mechanism for saving user's session settings has been improved. Now the parameters file is written not into the temporary directory of the system, but into the user's home directory. This allows you to save the settings after rebooting the system and to differentiate the sessions of the individual users. The convenience of working with the dialogs "Map print", "Label options", "Matrix builder" has been improved. In the dialog "Create object" the checking of entering an incorrect metric is extended. Displaying objects of operational situation in accordance with the CEUZ is refined.
GIS "Operator" is an universal domestic geoinformation system for power structures. The program is intended for accumulation, the storage, the automated processing and displaying the data, results of calculations and the forecasts having a geospatial binding. GIS "Operator" contains tools for displaying and processing vector, raster and matrix maps. The application provides users with tools for solving specialized tasks of modeling the movement of special objects against the background of 3D model, a forecasting the consequences of emergencies on hazardous objects, a monitoring the movement of aircraft, a performing the geodetic and topographic work, processing data from GPS/GLONASS navigation devices, a printing the displayed spatial data to various output devices and many others. GIS "Operator" SE is certified by the 2nd level of control of the absence of undeclared capabilities in the RF Ministry of Defense.
The new version of the program is available for download in the
On the geoportal
Publishing of updates in bank of spatial data is made by using the program of
Free maps on the basis of OpenStreetMap data are available for download on the page "Digital maps and images".
KB "Panorama" prepared a digital geographical map of scale 1: 1 000 000 in format SXF for the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia.
The map contains information about the quantity of inhabitants for cities and the names of settlements in Russian. As additional materials the World Map of scale 1: 5 000 000 and data of
The map is distributed free according to the free


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RRB Mumbai Group D Admit Card 2018-2019: Aspirants those who are in deep search of the process to download rrbmumbai.gov.in Hall Ticket can check this article. Railway Recruitment Board has now released the latest job notification of RRB Mumbai Group D examination. All the contenders are showing a lot of interest towards this post. Hence, the aspirants who have applied for the RRB Mumbai Group D Recruitment 2018-2019 can now download RRB Mumbai Group D Hall Ticket 2018-2019. In addition to this, the board wants to release the examination in April or May. Hence, we suggest all the aspirants stick to our post to find the latest information regarding the RRB Mumbai Group D Admit Card 2018-2019. And, before going to the written test it is an essential thing to carry the RRB Mumbai Group D Hall ticket.
RRB Mumbai Group D Admit Card 2018-2019
Contenders are now eagerly browsing for RRB Mumbai Group D Admit Card 2018-2019. If you are one of them read this whole article. We are providing you with the direct links. So, by clicking the link given at the bottom of our article you can redirect to the official website. Admit card acts as a proof that your registration for the exam is successful. Hence, we suggest all the aspirants not to forget the hall ticket before attending the written test. In addition to this, we also help you out with steps to download the hall ticket, exam pattern, syllabus, previous year papers, etc. And, before browsing other websites and wasting your time. We advise the aspirants to refer our website. Also, we have provided you with the selection process, written test date, admit card release date etc.
In addition to this aspirants can also check RRB Mumbai recruitment 2018, RRB Mumbai vacancy, group d RRB, www.rrbmumbai.gov.in 2018. Contenders, those who are worrying about the RRB Mumbai Group D Admit Card 2018-2019 need not worry. Officials of Railway Recruitment Board of Mumbai are thinking to release the admit card in March or April. So, candidates can now take a deep breath. Aspirants can download the admit card before 10-15 days of the written test. Moreover, without wasting your time we suggest the aspirants study well for the written test. As we all know that getting a government job is not an easy task. So, aspirants have to work hard to attain the job they dreamt of. Therefore, you can also check the RRB Mumbai Group D Previous Papers, Syllabus, and exam pattern.
RRB Mumbai Group D Admit Card 2018 | Overview
|Name Of The Organization
|Railway Recruitment Board of Mumbai
|Name Of The Post(s)
|Group D
|Number Of Vacancies
|Date Of Written Exam
|Upcoming Months
|Hall Ticket
|Availability Of Admit Card
|Before 10-15 Days Prior To The Exam Date
|Official Website
As you can see, from the above table aspirants can get the information about the name of the organization, the number of posts. Also, date of the written test, availability of Admit Card, the number of vacancies, and official website. Before few days the higher authorities of Railway Recruitment Board has announced proudly that they are recruiting 62907 candidates for various posts. So, the candidates those who have applied for the Railway Recruitment can now download this RRB Mumbai Group D Admit Card 2018-2019. Also, RRB will send acknowledgment and emails whenever there is any update regarding RRB Admit Card. Moreover, many candidates will be in an illusion that the RRB Mumbai Group D Hall Ticket will be sent a post. But the aspirants will receive the admit card only through the online format in a form of PDF.
You Can Also Check: ★ RRB Group D Recruitment & RRB Group D Syllabus
Download rrbmumbai.gov.in Hall Ticket
In general, the RRB Group D Hall Ticket 2018-2019 will be available before 10-15 days of the examination date. Every year Railway Recruitment Board is offering various vacancies for all the aspirants. As per every year, this year also it is releasing many job notifications for all the aspirants who are Graduates as well as, Postgraduates. So, the contenders who have completed their 10th standard to Postgraduation can now check out the latest job notifications of Group D. And, the candidates should meet the eligibility criteria to apply for these jobs. Furthermore, aspirants those whoever have registered for the RRB Mumbai Group D Recruitment 2018-2019 can only download the RRB Mumbai Group D Admit Card 2018-2019. This can be considered as a massive opportunity by all the aspirants. Hence, we suggest the contenders utilize this great chance.
You Can Also Check: ★ RRB Group D Admit Card & RRB Group D Answer Key
Many contenders are eagerly searching for Railway Jobs. Our website provides you with the best and finest information about the Railway Recruitment. And, many job hunters are hunting for the Government Jobs. So, this a golden opportunity for all the aspirants. Without wasting your time apply for the RRB Group D Notification and download the RRB Mumbai Group D Admit Card 2018-2019. Moreover, to save your valuable time we are providing you with the useful and efficient links which redirect you to the official website. Aspirants should strictly carry the hall ticket to the exam center. Along, with the hall ticket contenders should also carry the following things. The Original documents and Adress Proofs like Adhaar Card, PAN Card, Passport, Voter Id, Ration Card, Driving License, etc.
RRB Mumbai Group D Exam Pattern 2018-2019
In this section, we will provide you with the RRB Mumbai Group D Exam Pattern 2018-2019. So, the aspirants those who want to attend this written test should compulsorily follow the exam pattern. And, mainly aspirants should have a clear knowledge of the Quantitative Analysis, Logical Reasoning, General Awareness, General Knowledge, Technical Knowledge, and Verbal Ability. In addition to this, there is multiple numbers of positions and exam patterns differ from one post to another. Hence, we suggest all the aspirants check the notification clearly before applying for the job.
You Can Also Check: ★ RRB Group D Mumbai Recruitment
RRB Mumbai Group D Selection Process 2018-2019
In RRB Mumbai Group D Selection Process 2018-2019 there are four rounds. These rounds are the following.
- Written Test.
- Screening Test.
- Physical Test.
- Personal Interview.
- Final Documentation.
Procedure to download the RRB Mumbai Group D Admit Card 2018-2019
- Go to the official website of Railway Recruitment of Mumbai @ rrbmumbai.gov.in
- Search for RRB Mumbai Group D Admit Card 2018-2019.
- As soon as, you find the link click on it.
- You will be displayed on the homepage.
- In the home page, you can find the Hall ticket and password particulars.
- Fill the empty particulars with appropriate details.
- Check the details twice before submitting.
- Click on SUBMIT.
- Download the hall ticket or take a photocopy for further use.
To download the RRB Mumbai Group D Admit Card 2018-2019: Click Here
Furthermore, for more updates and important stuff regarding RRB Mumbai Group D Admit Card 2018-2019 and Download rrbmumbai.gov.in Hall Ticket closely follow our website Freshersnow.com or just bookmark it.
★ You Can Also Check: ★


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Flowers, Plants and Pots, so therapeutic!
When you begin working with your jewelry again you need to make me some with black stones, or even bluish green or brown. I've had so many compliments when I wear the ones you gave me. You do such good work!
A Window into the Artist's Mind
short and insightful writing about a long and complex history
The latest news on WordPress.com and the WordPress community.
Inspiring Leadership
Do or do not, There is no try.
Write Wild. Write Now.
Welcome to my corner...
Just another WordPress.com site


text:
In appointing a Commission of Inquiry (CoI) under Section 3 1 (b) of the Commissions of Inquiry Act to probe into the allegations of `snoopgate,' the Centre seems to be on a strong wicket as the Supreme Court had in 1977 rejected an argument raised by the State of Karnataka that such an appointment impinges on the federal structure.
The Leader of the Opposition in Rajya Sabha Arun Jaitley on Thursday tweeted that the matter would be challenged in the court of law. In this context it would be worthwhile to recall a similar instance in 1976 when the then Central government appointed a CoI to probe into allegations of corruption, favouritism and nepotism against the then Chief Minister and other Ministers.
Karnataka government filed a suit in the Supreme Court questioning the jurisdiction of the Centre to appoint such a commission. The Karnataka government took the stand that the Centre had no jurisdiction or authority to constitute the CoI under the CoI Act; the action of the Centre in appointing the Commission against the Ministers of the State government was destructive of the federal structure of the Constitution and the scheme of distribution of powers between the Centre and the States; under the Cabinet system of government the Council of Ministers was responsible to the Legislature for all its actions and the inquiry ordered by the Central government against the State Ministers, while they were in office would subvert the principle of collective responsibility of Ministers to the Legislature.
Rejecting the argument, a seven-Judge by a majority of 4:3 said "Since the two notifications [by the State and the Centre] authorise inquiries into matters which are substantially different in nature and object, the inquiry of the Central Commission cannot be said to be barred by reason of the State government notification under proviso (b) to section 3 (1 ) of the CoI Act even if, in order to deal with a substantially different subject-matter, central areas of fact or rules governing the transactions may be common. If the objectives are different the examination of common areas of fact and law for different purposes will be permissible."No violation of law
The majority ruling held that the obvious intention behind the CoI Act was to enable the machinery of democratic government to function more efficiently and effectively. The court said "it could hardly be construed is an Act meant to thwart democratic methods of the government. In all democratic countries when allegations and rumours circulate causing crisis of confidence in the integrity of public life or about other matters of public importance, it is essential that public confidence should be restored and this can be done only by thoroughly investigating and probing the rumours and allegations. Such an inquiry might reveal either that the evil exists or that there is no force in the rumours. In either case confidence is restored. There is no substance in the argument that a Commission appointed by the Central government to inquire into the same matter for which a Commission had already been set up by the State government is violative of Section 3(1) (b) of the Act."
The Commission appointed by the Centre will have the powers of a civil court and it can summon and enforce the attendance of any person from any part of India and examine him/her on oath; require the discovery and production of any document; receive evidence on affidavits; requisition any public record or copy thereof from any court of office and issue Commissions for the examination of witnesses or documents and the Gujarat government is bound to cooperate in the inquiry unless it is able to get a stay on the Centre's probe in a court of law.


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Click to read all about coronavirus →
Former President John Dramani Mahama, if re-elected to lead the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) into the 2020 elections, will "mess up more" than he did in the 2016 polls, Joseph Bipoba Naabu, NDC Member of Parliament for Yunyoo, has said.
There have been calls on Mr Mahama from some NDC members and executives to return to lead the party in the 2020 polls after his defeat to President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo in the 2016 election.
However, speaking to Class News' parliamentary correspondent Ekow Annan, Mr Naabu noted that Mr Mahama was not the only person who could lead the NDC and questioned why he should be re-elected as flag bearer.
"He was the president and he went and contested with Nana Akufo-Addo and lost so miserably... Now, if President Mahama comes, what is he going to do? Is he the only person and why should it be him? I want to tell him categorically that if he comes, he will rather mess up more. And those people calling for him to come back were the people he appointed as ministers, people he made deputy ministers, they were the people who were chief executive officers of government institutions – they are the people calling him to come back," the lawmaker stated.
According to him, the NDC's defeat was self-inflicted, citing Mr Mahama's appointments during his tenure as president as key to the party's defeat.
"Even though it's my party and I wish that we would have won the elections, it was because of our behaviour, and the president himself took things for granted, that was why we lost. He thought he was going to win hands down but rather he lost heavily and massively. I will say lack of competence and he also not having control, people were just telling him lies within the presidency.
"Take Omane Boamah for instance. What experience has he got in politics? If he goes to contest elections in the constituency where he comes from, can he win that election? But the former president was listening to such people and that is the problem with him. Those who were surrounding him were not telling him the truth," he stated.
Send your news stories to and via WhatsApp on +233 55 2699 625.
- GHS390m for new register "worth it" – Sylvia Annoh
- Sunyani: EC to re-conduct district level election at Low Cost Electoral Area
- Mahama, Debrah must be banned from Ashanti Kingdom - Wontumi
- Manyhia persuaded losing candidate in 2016 polls to accept defeat – Asantehene reveals
- Please, leave Rawlings alone, he had no hand in Mahama's 2016 humiliating defeat


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Y traethodydd
Cringing at the first one! Apologies I interrupted you at lunch the other day, bad of me. I was a bit flustered but that's no excuse.Something which caught my attention - the reference to the website "Rate A Teacher". Had never heard of it but felt intrigued enough to check it out just now. Blimey, there's a dangerous idea if ever I saw one.
Post a comment


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Atlas Network is proud to co-host a special program on Monday, Nov. 16, at the Union League Club of Philadelphia with the Commonwealth Foundation. Atlas Network CEO Brad Lips will give a featured presentation on how free-market "Davids" are standing up to big government "Goliaths" in 100 countries. (Click here for a clip of Brad Lips on Stossel for a taste of the kind of discussion to expect.)
Gabriel Calzada (President of the Universidad Francisco Marroquín in Guatemala) and Rainer Heufers (founder of the Center for Indonesian Policy Studies, a new think tank concentrating its early efforts on education policy) will provide stirring examples of how freedom is on the march in different parts of the globe.
President of Americans for Tax Reform Grover Norquist has said, "If you want to help America foster natural allies all over the world — committed to free enterprise, limited government and the rule of law — Atlas Network has the most effective strategy I've seen."
Learn about that strategy and how it is being implemented in 100 countries.
The program will include a complimentary cocktail reception with heavy hors d'oeuvres. This will be a unique opportunity to learn first-hand about reasons for hope for the future of freedom.
Date & Time: Monday, Nov. 16, 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
Location: The Union League of Philadelphia. (140 South Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19102 tel: 215-563-6500)
We do ask that our audience members make a charitable contribution to support the mission of Atlas Network and show solidarity with its partners that stand up for liberty in difficult environments around the world. Please make your donation at AtlasNetwork.org/Donate
Register today to ensure your spot at this important event.


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Prep: 35 minutes
Makes: 4 sandwiches
red onion, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 cup melted butter
1/4 cup olive oil
8 slices Horseradish Cheddar cheese
(or cheddar + grated horseradish)
12 ounces shaved roast beef
sourdough bread, cut into 3/4-inch thick slices
[1] Saute onion slices in 2 tablespoons olive oil in a medium saucepan until tender.
[2] Combine butter with olive oil. Brush 1 side of 4 slices of bread with the butter mixture and place, butter side down, in sandwich grill.
[3] Top each bread slice with 1 slice of cheese, beef, onion and a second slice of cheese. Brush 1 side of remaining slices of bread with butter mixture and place over cheese, butter side up.
[4] Cook 4 to 5 minutes or until browned and cheese melts.
Recipe: Tracy Rabenberg, Executive Chef, Apples Catering, St. Paul, Minnesota


text: Rerednaw 0 Posted December 18, 2017 (edited) Between the extremely improbable streaks of bad coin flips and turn 1 Raichu's with full Benches...I could really use some help. I have the starting theme decks...the first few games were okay though the RNG was heavily skewed in my favor so I didn't feel like I actually won from strategy or deck design. Now I have a few of the trainers defeated so I have about 3-4 cards replaced. And now, when I sort of feel strategy may start to matter...the RNG is going the other way. The theme decks so far as I have found have little mitigation or elimination...not so for the AI trainers. Their decks have many cards that are specifically geared vs. your theme decks. Just looking for some tips here. Thanks! Edited December 18, 2017 by Rerednaw Share this post Link to post Share on other sites


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Sheriff's Office
There were 80 bookings at the San Joaquin County Jail in the 24 hours ending at 8 a.m. Sunday. At that time, there were 1,265 people held at the jail, which has an official capacity of 1,665. When the jail is full, some inmates may be released early.
Stockton Police
Robbery arrest: After allegedly concealing merchandise in his pockets inside a business in the 5000 block of Montauban Avenue about 1:50 p.m. Saturday, a man was confronted by employees. He then reportedly started to pull a handgun from his waistband but was tackled by the employees and held for police. Officers arrested Anthony McManus, 30, on suspicion of robbery.
House shot: A home in the 200 block of Cordova Lane was shot several times while a woman and her four children were inside about 10:15 p.m. Saturday. No injuries were reported. No suspect information or motive was provided for the shooting.
Stockton Fire
The Stockton Fire Department responded to 116 calls for service in the 24 hours ending at 8 a.m. Sunday, including six vehicle accidents, 83 medical calls and one structure fire.


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March 29, 2018
Two Good!
Karinya House enjoys a wonderful association with the inspiring team to Two Good Co! As part of their #loveanothermother campaign in 2017, we received three boxes filled with the most gorgeous care packs, beautifully packaged with love.
To quote from the campaign:
Two Good Care was inspired by a lady who escaped to a women's safe house with nothing. On arrival she was given a toiletry set but for her it wasn't the toiletry set that made the difference. It was the fact that the set was tied in a neatened bow. That someone had gone to the efforts of neatening a bow demonstrated to her that she was of value. It was a pivotal moment in her healing process. Each luxury care pack is sent with a neatened bow in hope of recreating these neatened bow moments. You buy a care pack for your mum, and we donate a care pack to a woman in a domestic violence shelter or service supporting domestic violence survivors.
This year, as a champion for this campaign, Karinya House can both raise funds and give the women we support beautiful gifts throughout the year. We have partnered with Two Good Co on their #loveanothermother campaign. Two Good has developed a luxury set of all natural, Australian made, toiletries. For each care pack we sell another care pack is donated to us to provide to the women we work with. We also get the profits on each sale. It really is Two Good. The campaign goes live in April. If you haven't yet got your mothers day gift sorted, we would love you to consider one of these. Head over to www.twogood.com.au/lifestyle and select a gift. Please be sure to use the promo code Karinya on purchase to have the profits and other product donated to Karinya, or another women's support service.
So this Mother's Day, This Mother's Day, we are asking you to #LOVEANOTHERMOTHER.


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Dec 17, 2012
The first 10 minutes from the season-two premiere of MTV's were-drama Teen Wolf have been posted online, and the action picks up right where it left off last year.
Breaking out as a surprise hit series last year, the modern-day reboot of the cheesy 1980s classic film has developed into a true sci-fi guilty pleasure.
The series stars Tyler Posey, Colton Haynes, Crystal Reed, Holland Roden and Dylan O'Brien.
Season two premieres Sunday, June 6, at 11 p.m. ET/PT, immediately following the MTV Movie Awards.
Check the clip out below:
Get More: Teen Wolf, Full Episodes
Will you be watching?
(Via The Hollywood Reporter)


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You will need to determine on furnishings for max versatility when your coping with a limited house. For example, use an ottoman in lieu of a settee or chair. You should utilize the ottoman as each a desk, in addition to extra seating. Discovering gadgets with two capabilities would possibly help maximize tiny areas.
Attempt to match the interior design of your home with the model that you just and your husband favor. This is going to be the place the place you spend essentially probably the most time in your life, so you'll need to really feel cozy all the time to assist in the reduction of stress throughout the day.
Whether it's attainable for you to take motion, chances are you'll make your entrance room look higher by putting within the fireplace. In addition to giving the living room a snug feeling, it might even be nice for resale worth, do you need to decide to promote your home sooner or later.
A espresso desk is without doubt one of many additional vital elements that you will want to place in your home, as it is both practical and aesthetically pleasing. Guantee that once you buy your coffee desk, that it matches the fashion of your home and comes with coasters to protect the floor.
Remember to think about the room's guests whilst you're putting furnishings. It can be crucial that the furnishings matches and that there's room to walk round. When you have an occasion at your home, you don't need individuals to get crammed strolling by your home.


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Fire Up the Night - Coney Island
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On September 22, Germany, France, and Mexico will be competing in Coney Island's annual firework competition, Fire Up the Night. Spend the day riding rides, canoeing on Lake Como or playing a round of mini golf. Enjoy a LaRosa's pizza and other Cincinnati favorites plus live entertainment at the world's largest "empty-pool" party at Sunlite Water Adventure. Beginning at 8:30 pm, the competing countries will light up the night sky with 3 firework displays as they compete in hopes of being voted the winning display. Rozzi's Famous Fireworks will end the evening with a fantastic finale over Lake Como. This family night out begins at 4pm and is sure to be a night your family will never forget.
In Moonlite Pavilion visitors can experience the unique cultures of one of the countries competing in Fire Up The Night. Interactive music, dancing, and art displays will be presented to be both fun and educational for family members of all ages.
Families can also join in the world's largest "empty-pool" party. Starting at 4 p.m., Coney's massive Sunlite Water Adventure will be home to this waterless pool party featuring live entertainment by Marsha Brady.


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Did you know that KDG was featured in Res Ipsa Loquitur?
Download Bio
Kurt Van Sciver focuses his practice on trusts and estates litigation. He has served as lead counsel in multiple bench trials before the probate court. He regularly litigates issues such as breach of fiduciary duties, accounting issues, spousal property petitions, and trust ownership of property. Representative clients include trustees, trust beneficiaries, executors, and conservators.
Kurt primarily practices in Kern County. He has written briefs for state and federal appellate courts and he has argues in front of the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. He began his legal career by clerking for the Honorable Stephen J. Markman of the Michigan Supreme Court and the Honorable Daniel Manion of the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals.
Kurt is the former President of the Probate Section of the Kern County Bar Association. He is a co-founder of the local chapter of the Federalist Society.
He lives in Bakersfield with his wife Megan and their five children.
Kern County Bar Association, 2009 - Present
Kern County Bar Association, 2013
- Probate Section President
Kern County Bar Association, 2012
- Probate Section Vice President
Kern County Bar Association, 2011
- Probate Section Treasurer
Klein, DeNatale, Goldner, Cooper, Rosenlieb & Kimball, LLP, 2009 - Present
Michigan Supreme Court, Honorable Stephen J. Markman, Lansing, MI, Law Clerk, 2006 - 2008
U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit, Honorable Daniel A. Manion, South Bend, IN, Law Clerk, 2008 - 2009
4550 California Avenue,
Second Floor
Map & Directions [+]


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Cisco has announced that its "5G Now" portfolio for service providers is all set. The portfolio has launched with an intention to provide an array of hardware solutions and associated services for the service providers. The announcement was made a week prior to the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona. At this event, lots of service providers would be on a lookout for new ways to tackle the ever-growing customer data demands and intense pricing pressure.
Cisco is well-known for producing networking gear that routes big volumes of data. With "5G Now," the Silicon Valley Company will be providing key features like the IP packet core, an access solution combining cable, fibre, Wi-Fi, and radio solutions. The portfolio also offers the capacity to manage workloads between different clouds and offer client services like the enterprise-focused Cisco Spark and IoT solution Cisco Jasper via the network and built-in security.
Yvette Kanouff, GM of Cisco's Service Provider Business, said: "4G was about buying connectivity, and 5G is about buying experiences. 5G creates a new environment for service creation, giving operators what they need to deliver next-level entertainment experiences. Only Cisco has the services, infrastructure and automation portfolio to support our global customers with their 5G initiatives."
Through this attempt, Cisco is trying to get a bigger share of the mobile market by supporting these alternative providers instead of manufacturing the radio access equipment itself.
As of now, the company is working with more than 20 network operators who are committed to delivering faster phones and video, connected cars, and internet-connected industrial sensors over the next ten years.
The vendors who have confirmed their participation in this venture are Altiostar, Aricent, Intel, Mavenir, Phazr, Red Hat, and Tech Mahindra. These companies will perform the testing, validation, proof of concept, and the roadmaps for vRan solutions. Reliance Jio, an Indian operator, is also supporting this effort.
Kanouff stated, "We believe it is an ideal time to align and collaborate on these issues to deliver innovative solutions ready for commercial deployment. Together with the ecosystem parties, we're making leaps forward in developing a customer-centric ecosystem focused on accelerating innovation and enabling new business models to dramatically lower costs, add capacity and improve network performance."


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Learning and generalizing social skills is a dynamic process. As children grow, they are confronted with constantly changing social demands. Many Lunch Buddies continue to work on showing interest and responding to others. When it is difficult to learn from experience, we provide a framework and scaffolding in addition to practice, practice, practice.
I love to pull together a variety of resources when working on difficult concepts. I am so glad that I bought this book. Just using the word "rule" to describe what the students need to do makes it very important!
I followed up with "Wh" Question Prompts" activity by KID CODES: Helping Kids Figure It Out. This packet provides just the right visual support/scaffolding that some Lunch Buddies need. It is available at http://teacherspayteachers.com/Store/kid-codes-helping-kids-figure-it-out.
Another KID CODES activity that provides a framework for showing interest is
We use these visual supports to help the Lunch Buddies to know the difference between a Curious Question that seeks information and shows interest and a Wacky Question that one already knows the answer to and does not seek information. The above activities are very effective in helping the students to expand their ability to engage in thoughtful conversations.
My Best,


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After a rather late night, we got up early and waited for them to drop our hire car off at the hostel so that we could drive The Great Ocean Road. About half an hour later than it should have, it finally arrived.
Our little beast for the day was a Hyundai Getz (it was the cheapest to hire at 20quid). I must say it didn't look too bad and around the streets of Melbourne it handled pretty well. That is until we reached the freeway, suddenly any power which we did have seemed to dissappear once we got past 3rd gear. So after just over 2 hours of sluggishly cruising down the freeway we reached the turn off for the Great Ocean Road. The road itself isn't great… of course its just made of asphalt like any other road, but we soon realised why they called it great.. it was because of the views. After a lot of twists and turns and ups and downs we finally reached the 12 apostles. These big stacks of sandstone are really famous apparently and so we got out to take pictures. Unfortunately for some reason down this road, there seemed to be an excessive amount of flies everywhere and so it was pretty disgusting as they kept landing on your lips, trying to dive bomb into your ears and fly up your nose. Needless to say we weren't out of the car long as it was simply unbearable.
Next stop was Loch Ard gorge… same story, way too many flies and again we weren't out of the car long.
We then carried on driving north until we reached what is called London Bridge, doesn't look much the same though. At this stop the girls just handed me their camera's and told me to take the pictures. Yes you guessed it, i got attacked by more flies. I don't know if it was the weather or what but there were millions of them.
By this point I had been driving for about 4 and a half hours and it was starting to get late and as we had a 15 hour greyhound back to Sydney that evening we had to start heading back. So back over all the ups and downs, twists and turns, and back down the freeway in our extremely slooow car, we finally arrived back in Melbourne just in time for our bus.
My verdict, yeah, i'm sure the Great Ocean Road is great when the sun is shining and there aren't a million flies trying to land on you. But i was happier sat in the car looking at the views through the windscreen where the flies could not attack me . After nearly 9 hours of driving yesterday i don't have to tell you that as soon as I sat on the Greyhound i fell fast asleep and remained that way for most of the journey.
Finally arriving back in Sydney this morning, I'm going to spend the day purchasing typical Australian tat such as boomerangs and then I'm going to climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge at 7pm before flying out to New Zealand in the morning. I can hardly believe that my time in Australia is already over… i've met so many nice people that it is going to really suck knowing i will probably not see them again for a long long time.. if ever! But i'm sure i will meet loads of cool people in NZ too.


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Soso Bay is home to our ultimate adrenalin rush. Its here you have the opportunity to snorkel with the white reef sharks. Our Blue Lagoon Crew will be in the eater with you for the entire time and will closely monitor the sharks behavior to ensure your safety. A must do activity in the Yasawa Islands
You'll also have the option to visit the chiefly village of Soso, meet the locals and learn about the local customs of the indigenous people of Fiji


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Ines loves food and cooking (mostly baking). Her passion is turning 'regular' recipes into 'healthier' versions. When creating recipes, Ines uses ingredients like gluten free flour, coconut sugar, cacao, coconut oil. She believes that you shouldn't have to give up on taste and indulging in foods you like because of your food intolerances or dietary preferences.
Go-to morning beverage?
Water, then coffee.
What inspires you?
Other like-minded people and their commitment to living a fulfilling life. For me it's all about living the life you want to live, not about expectations. I understand that this is not easy for a few different reasons so when I see someone doing something they love, that inspires and motivates me.
What's your philosophy when it comes to healthy living?
Balance - eat well during the week and live a little on the weekend. It's more about listening to what your body wants without necessarily binging or overindulging.
The one healthy treat you can't live without?
Acai bowls.
How do you relax and spend your 'me' time?
Watching a movie with my boyfriend.
Where's your ideal coffee date?
Somewhere I can get an almond milk cappuccino (with extra chocolate please).
Is it OK to eat chocolate for breakfast?
Favourite foodie or health & wellness instagram accounts?
Panaceas Pantry, Elsa's Wholesome Life, Pheebsfoods.
Dark or milk chocolate?
Dark, preferably dairy free
What's your favourite recipe that uses cacao?
Brownies (healthy of course)
One mantra you live by
Eat dessert for breakfast!
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kkao Co. Founder, Kara Conroy, shares an insight into the story behind the brand, and paints a picture of where it all began. The creation of kkao Co. has been brewing for a while...
We tell you the best method to brew a really amazing cup of cacao tea, and some delicious variations so you can adjust as you like to your personal taste.


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RSU No. 5 – Freeport High School
Track & Field
In conformance with Title 5 M.R.S.A., sections 1747 and 1748, RSU No. 5 will qualify Contractors to bid on the Freeport High School Track & Field. Interested Contractors are required to complete a Pre-Bid Questionnaire in order to be considered as qualified to receive the construction documents and participate in the bidding process.
Pre-Bid Qualifications Questionnaire
RSU No. 5 – Freeport High School
Track & Field
The Pre-Bid Qualifications Questionnaire may be downloaded from <www.rsu5.org> Direct questions to Patrick Carroll by email at firstname.lastname@example.com or by telephone at 207-772-1552. Submit completed questionnaire / qualifications package to Superintendent of Schools, RSU 5, 17 West Street, Freeport, ME 04032. Interested parties should submit six (6) copies of their qualifications package on or before 4:00pm on Friday, March 3, 2017.
The Project consists of an Athletics Complex with eight lane track, artificial turf field, softball field and associated site improvements at Freeport High School located on Holbrook Street in Freeport, ME. Estimated construction cost is $3.5M. The Consultant is Carroll Associates Landscape Architects of Portland, Maine
RSU 5 will evaluate qualifications submitted. Evaluation criteria for qualifications will be based on criteria in Title 5 M.R.S.A., section 1747.
Bidding documents prepared by Carroll Associates Landscape Architects will be available to pre-qualified Contractors no earlier than Friday, March 17 2017 with notice to proceed anticipated April 14, 2017 and Final Substantial Completion by September 8, 2017. A mandatory pre-bid site walk for General Contractors is scheduled for March 22, 2017 for contractors that are placed on the qualification list. Additional site walks to be determined during the bid period.
Bid document information will be provided in advertisements to follow.


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Phone: 905-660-3312 or Toll Free: 1-877-398-8220
Another very nice RHD Honda Odyssey with low millage and many luxury features, this Odyssey features, power windows, power locks, power mirrors, CD/mp3 player, Air conditioning, and of course this is the more powerful v6 3.0L AWD version.
A powerful yet reliable and comfortable vehicle with lots of cargo and passenger space.
Just arrived in Canada. Pre-Examined and selected by our partners in Japan as usual, the interior/exterior are in very good condition. Don't miss out!
Photos coming soon.
Comes certified and e-tested with postal service plans available.
Finance with $0 down (On approved credit). Ask about our RSMC buy back guarantee.
Trade-ins of all types of vehicles are accepted.
Price includes all OMVIC and Postal Vehicles (Right Drive Inc.) administration fee`s as well as 100 point mechanical inspection. All mandatory HTA modifications also included (DOT tires, daytime running lights, child safety latch).


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Bodysuit Catsuit – Off The Shoulder
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Stay – August 12, 2018
Posted on August 12, 2018 by admin No comments
Sermon Preached by the Reverend Peter Thompson
St. Paul's on the Green, Norwalk, CT
Twelfth Sunday after Pentecost
August 12, 2018
Let us pray.
Take our lives and let them be
Consecrated, Lord, to Thee;
Take our moments and our days,
Let them flow in ceaseless praise. Amen.
You never can tell.
The former Episcopal bishop of Massachusetts John Coburn once volunteered that if he had a motto in life, it would be this: "You never can tell." "I've presided over dozens of marriage ceremonies," he said. "Statistically and anecdotally, I know that a percentage of those marriages ended in divorce. But if I were to have guessed at the ceremonies themselves which marriages would make it and which ones wouldn't, at least 50% of the time I would have guessed wrong. Some of the couples that seemed ideally suited for each other didn't make it past 5 years; others whose relationship seemed rocky at best have gone on to have long and healthy marriages. You never can tell…I've [also] presided at many ordination services. Some priests whom I rather uncharitably assumed would be mediocre at best have gone on to serve with faithful and fruitful distinction. Others that I thought were among our most gifted stalled out after only a few years. A few of our brightest stars are now in jail. You never can tell."
Or as Forrest Gump would say, "life is like a box of chocolates. You never know what you're gonna get."
Life is indeed full of surprises. When we look back at the twists and turns of the preceding years and decades, we see that much has happened as we planned and much has happened in deviation from our plans. Sometimes we saw the promotion or the cross-country move or the death of a parent coming. Other times the proposal or the illness or the market change came out of nowhere and caught us off guard. There is no way we can tell for certain what the future holds, whatever we think we know about the present; Jesus, the son of Joseph, whose father and mother we know, may also turn out to be the bread that came down from heaven. The whole story, full of nuance and intrigue and complication, is still unwritten, hidden from sight, out of view. We only see fragments: our capacity to comprehend the possible is limited; we don't have the ability to figure everything out on our own. No one can truly know God's purposes except God's own self.
In today's first reading, Elijah was too overwhelmed with desperation to recognize the limitations of his own perspective. Elijah found himself in the wilderness because he was running away from King Ahab, who was seeking to kill Elijah after Elijah threatened his power. Elijah could not see any way out of his predicament; he believed he was doomed to be as irrelevant as his ancestors; he thought he should just as well die now and get it over with. But God did not listen to Elijah's request, and, after a brief rest and some food and drink provided by an angel, Elijah lived to see another day. He went on to speak with God on the same holy mountain where Moses met God and to become one of the greatest and best-known prophets in the Judeo-Christian tradition. What a shame would it have been if Elijah had died when he wanted to! The miracle of Elijah's story is that there was indeed a future where Elijah saw none.
About a decade ago, within the span of about two years, the poet and scholar Jennifer Michael Hecht lost two of her friends from graduate school to suicide. She was shocked and disheartened. To cope, she read about the history of suicide and the arguments against it. She was trying to understand why someone would want to kill themselves and to find out if there was anything anyone could say in order to prevent them from doing so. She decided to collect her thoughts into an essay that she addressed to anyone who might be thinking about suicide. Her message was simple: stay. Life can be really, really difficult, she told her readers, but ending it all hurts the people who love you and also deprives the person you could be of a chance. Hecht aimed not to condemn those who had already lost their lives to suicide, but to prevent those who were thinking about suicide from losing their lives as well.
Hecht later expanded her essay into a book, which examines the history of suicide and argues vociferously against it. In it, she wrote this: "Everyone changes, but at a given moment, we tend to feel that this is the way we always have been. With depression, that despair of the possibility of change is even more intense; the depressed person is convinced that she will never come out of it. But even that person has had periods of happiness. It is the nature of existence that this happiness will return—if we stay around to enjoy it…As the talk show host Phil Donahue put it, 'Suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem.' [His comment] is a pithy reminder that if you live you will have to continue to face this difficult life, but that the particular element that you despise in your life today may be utterly gone tomorrow, or soon after. Of course, depression is more durable than any given setback, but even depression is not permanent. One characteristic of major depression is that it feels as if it will never end, but in fact, even untreated it waxes and wanes, and with treatment most people will experience considerable improvement. There is always hope for a better life in the future, a life that may be sufficiently rich and strange, creative and beautiful, peaceful and vibrant to have made the wait worthwhile." Elijah was wrong when he thought there was no future for himself—when he thought he might as well die—and so are we when we think the same.
We never can tell, can we? When life seems to be going well, despair can hit us suddenly, out of nowhere, changing our whole outlook, upending our entire world, yet when we think we have hit rock bottom, an angel might arrive to comfort us and prepare us to keep going. Our God is a God of resurrection, who hates death so much that he defeats it, who always offers us a new future. So don't for a second think that there's no hope. However difficult things have been for however long they've been difficult for, make the decision to give it all another shot. Make the decision to stick around and see what tomorrow will bring. Make the decision to stay.
1 As related in Mariann Budde's "Priesthood: You Never Can Tell," https://www.edow.org/about/bishop-mariann/writings/2017/06/22/sermon-ordination-priests.