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When developing a defense it is important to start with the front and work back. Lining up correctly to formations, understanding keys, and developing a plan to stop the run all starts with the front seven. In a 4-3/4-2-5 (or 3-4 Hybrid) defense, the secondary players become the adjusters. Playing a single-gap defense and using formations to dictate alignments allow defensive players to see the formation quicker and align correctly. Each player in a defense is anchored to one another in some way. Understanding these anchor points, and how they change depending on formations, is crucial to the success of any defensive unit.
The Spread's utilization of space has put aligning correctly every play at a premium. It is easy to align to a simple 2×2 formation, but when offenses utilize 3×1 formations (primarily Trips Open) the defense must understand how it adjusts will dictate their areas of weakness. Offenses make use of Trips formations because it forces the defense to give something up. To gain a six-man box a defense must spin, either to the Trips or away.
To keep the front side pass distribution (and a four-over-three pass distribution) the defense can insert the backside safety into the box (see left). This allows the frontside Mike to cover down to the #3 WR. The Down Safety (DS, or backside safety), inserts into the box and will relate to #2. This creates a Cover 3 scheme to the single WR side and places a secondary player as a primary fitter (he is responsible for a single gap). The issues with this are obvious, most defensive coordinators do not want to put a safety in the box. The defense is also susceptible to any backside vertical route by #2. Traditionally, offenses have used the "X" WR in Trips to gain one-on-one advantages because many DCs chose to "kick" to Trips or spin to single-high to gain a six-man box. The point of stay in a two-high shell versus Trips is to protect the easy vertical throw to "X."
The more frequently used adjustment to teams that run out of Trips formations is to spin to single-high and run a Cover 3 scheme over the formation (see right). Spinning to the Trips side allows the Mike to work back into the box. The front side safety works down on top of the #3 WR. The Sam works to his typical cover down to #2 and plays a two-on-two over/under scheme with the CB. Both safeties will bracket the #3 WR in a similar fashion. If the RB flares to the field, the spinning safety and Sam will exchange any push or rub routes. The main advantage of this scheme is the Mike is now in the box and only responsible for a gap (though he must push with the RB to the field) and the defense has created a six-man box. The Will is responsible for #2 weak if the back flares to the boundary. Like the weak spin discussed earlier, the disadvantage of this scheme is the manned CB on the single WR ("X"). The vacating boundary safety creates an easy throw to the middle of the field (or near the seam) for the QB. Many offenses that see a "kicking" safety attack the vacated zone behind him.
Using a Two-High Shell to Gain a 7-Man Box
Trips formations force a box player out of the box. This can lead to a lack of numbers when defending the run. Especially if a DC does not understand how a Trips formation changes who is deemed a "box" player from a two-high scheme. Many DCs when defending the Spread want to stay in a two-high shell. This allows them to protect the backside CB and gain run fitters from the safety position. Even staying two-high, some DCs will still "kick" the backside safety to account for the vertical of #3. See below:
The issue with both of these coverages is that the offense can easily use a false read by the #3 WR to get the DS to kick frontside. This creates issues to the boundary because the Will is technically the new Mike and there is no one outside the DE. Essentially, by kicking, the defense has lost its plus-one. The point of staying even and using a two-high shell is to always have a plus-one in the run fits and pass distribution. One way to do this is to use Stress or Special as a base coverage. Most offenses do not utilize the #1 WR to the three WR side (plus, it is a hard throw to make from the boundary). By using the law of averages and challenging the offense to complete low percentage throws, a defense can stay plus-one and protect the boundary CB by keeping a two-high shell.
In the image above, the defense is utilizing Stress as its base and an Under Front to gain a cover down for the Mike. This setup allows the defense to gain a seven-man box. Most OCs do not see the DS as a "box" player because he is aligned at 10 yards. This is an advantage to the defense because he is a box fitter. To the OC, he may see a 4-1 box because the DS is deep and the Mike is "hipped" on the DE (not in his open gap). Offenses choose to attack this defense by putting the RB to the three WR side and run the ball to the weak side. In an OC's eyes, there is a numbers advantage weak.
In actuality, the numbers are there for the defense to gain a plus-one. As the Sam covers down to his responsibility in the #2 WR, he has removed himself from the box and is no longer responsible for a run fit. This defensive alignment shifts the defense to the three WR side. The responsibilities in the box shift as well. Using Stress as a base coverage and leaving the backside safety (DS) to help with the run, the defense now must adjust the fits. The Will becomes the new Mike and the Mike and DS take the roles as the OLBs. By doing this the defense still has four down linemen and three "LBs." The fits should stay the same as though the formation was a simple 2×2. As stated earlier, the offense will see this as an advantage because they will believe they have a 4-1 box and now fit support defender to the boundary.
By adjusting (and sliding) the LBs to the three WR side, the defense has created a numbers advantage against the run and the pass. To the front side, there is a four-over-three pass distribution advantage, and in the box, there are seven defenders six potential blockers (QB run). If the offense does not utilize the QB in the run game, the advantage is even greater for the defense.
Run Fits vs. Popular Spread Plays
Zone Read
Versus the Zone Read, natural gap exchanges to the front side allow the Mike and play side DE to keep option responsibilities (Mike = QB/DE = Dive). Using single-gap principles, the Will can take his "A" gap and the DS acts as a plus-one to the backside of the play. Even if the offensive tackle sifts (holds the DE from crashing by duck walking vertically), the DE will still have time to take the cut back and the Mike does not have to move (negating the sift). The ability to "hang" in his position allowed by natural gap exchanges also helps if the QB decides to throw a WR screen. The Nose pays a key role in collapsing the play from the backside. If the offense "bangs" the Nose to allow the Guard to overtake, once the Center climbs to the Will, the Nose must cut off his backside. This movement can allow the Will to "belly key" to the opposite "A" gap for the cutback. The DS acts as the adjuster to the Will. If the Will gets walled by the Center, the DS can scrape to the opposite side for the cutback. If the Will belly keys and gets caught outside, the DS will fit into the vacated "A." Either way, the defense is granted a plus-one.
Power Read
Power Read (and all its variations) might be the toughest play in football to defend. The issue with the Power Read is that it is in fact Power. The major difference is the path of the RB. In traditional Power, the RB is downhill and the play side DE is asked to spill any puller or "J"/out block. Versus a 3×1 formation, the DE is responsible for the Dive. This creates a problem.
Power Read flips the read traditional rules for option. The Dive is no longer going to the RB, it is going to the QB. The path of the back is flat like stretch. If the DE climbs to get the RB, the QB pulls to a spilling Will. The Mike, who is outside the box, should climb to the RB working outside. Now the defense finds itself with two players outside and no one for the QB. If the DE plays it like Power and attempts to spills the puller, the Guard can log the DE and still work vertically. This is why as a DC, it is important to teach the DE to read the RB's path. If it is downhill, the DE should play it like Power. If the RB's path is flat and fast (Stretch), the DE should climb to the QB.
With any gap play, a defense wants a man on either side of the puller. Versus Power Read, if the DE reads the path of the RB (flat and fast) and climbs to the outside shoulder of the QB, he technically is the "boxer" on the pulling Guard. If the QB escapes the DE he will have to cut it back to the Will who is fitting inside. This fit should create a "give" look and the Mike should tackle the RB as he exits the box. Here are the base fits versus strong and weak Power Read:
If the play is run to the weak side, the DE will climb to the RB (he has first outside threat) and the QB should pull. Using Power fit rules, the Will spills the play to the DS. Mike works into the box as the cut back player (to the front side that would be the DS). Fitting Power Read as though it is Power allows an easy transition and simple rules to follow when defending the Spread's most dangerous play.
Counter GT (Read)
The Counter GT from a 3×1 formation can be a tough play to defend. With two pullers, the defense must account for two created gaps. When ran to the weak side, there are two options a DC can have: 1) Spill the pull or box the pull. If the DC decides to have the DE spill, it conflicts with his Power Read responsibilities. The objective of the spilling DE would be to force the Tackle to log or stop him from wrapping. The DE could box the kick out block, but that would allow the pulling Guard to easily work upfield. Either way, the play is elongated and it frees up the LBs. The Will fits the puller the same way he would Power (spill). The DS should fit on the outside of the puller and work the alley if the play spills.
The easiest way to keep things consistent, and to ensure the DE does not have to "read" is to keep this simple rule: DE with the Nose = Spill, while the DE to the 3 tech. = Box. This would keep the DE's action the same. If reading the play by the DEs, the trick is to read the QB. In first-level read schemes, the QB will look directly at the DE he is reading. In Power Read, the QB will stare down the front side DE. In Trips, this would make the DE climb to the QB as the OT down blocks. If the offense is running Counter to the weak, the DE would close off the OT's down block, see the QB's back and spill the first puller. Obviously, this is to the DC's discretion. See the two fits below:
The backside of the play is just as important as the front. With the running back working flat and fast away, the DE can close off the pulling Tackle's back (Dive). The objective here is to muddy the QB read. If the DE stays at home and keeps his shoulders square (or climbs), the QB will give the ball (if reading the DE). The Mike LB only works into the box for the cutback when the QB hands the ball off. Otherwise, he stays at home taking the QB (Option rules). Another way to play the DE would be to read the RB path like he would verse Power Read. Flat and fast means take the QB, downhill means take the Dive. The only problem with this is the offense can play with the way the DE reads the RB. Leaving two players on the QB can also open a hole for the cutback, especially if the Nose cannot cross face.
The main issue with defending Trips from a two-high shell alignment is the DS must be aggressive to any run weak. This makes him susceptible to play-action. By using a Sky technique and setting the front away from the three WR side, the backside safety (DS) is allowed the luxury to step-off from his alignment. By placing the front away from the offensive strength, the defense has created a natural barrier to the boundary. The DE to the 3 technique's side will hold the edge versus any stretch or outside run. This allows the safety time to run the alley or work into the box.
Keeping fits consistent throughout a defense is a key component to getting players to play fast to the ball. Understanding how a two-shell can adapt to work as a 4-3 front seven can help a DC in much more than run fits. Utilizing the DS in a Sky scheme to the backside of Trips can help with the run and pass. When the offense shifts to a Trips formation, the defense must adjust accordingly, taking the Sam out of the box. This shift makes the DS the new Will and the "box" LBs shift to cover down on the #3 WR ("pull the rope").
Looking for Part 1 and Part 2? Click the links below.
Part 1: Why You Should Run an Under Front to 3×1 Sets
Part 2: Top Trips Coverages Explained
© 2017, MatchQuarters.com | Cody Alexander | All rights reserved.
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text:
US discharges troops for abuse in Iraq
( 2004-01-06 10:27) (Agencies)
The U.S. Army discharged three soldiers for abusing prisoners at a detention center in Iraq, a U.S. military spokesman said Monday.
The three soldiers, all from Pennsylvania, were scheduled to face courts-martial this month but opted instead to submit to a nonjudicial hearing, in which their conduct was judged by a commander without a jury, Lt. Col. Vic Harris said. Such hearings are common practice, he said.
Brig. Gen. Ennis Whitehead III, the acting commander of the 143rd Transportation Command, found the three soldiers had maltreated prisoners at Camp Bucca, southern Iraq, on May 12. He demoted two of the soldiers and ordered that all three forfeit their salaries for two months.
The general found that Master Sgt. Lisa Marie Girman, 35, of Hazelton, Pa., knocked a prisoner to the ground, "repeatedly kicking him in the groin, abdomen, and head, and encouraging her subordinate soldiers to do the same," Harris said.
Girman received an "other-than-honorable conditions" discharge from her immediate commander.
Staff Sgt. Scott A. McKenzie, 38, of Clearfield, Pa., was found to have dragged a prisoner by his shoulders and then to have held his legs apart "and encouraging others to kick him in the groin while other U.S. soldiers kicked him in the abdomen and head," Harris said.
McKenzie was also found to have thrown the detainee face-down to the ground and have stepped on "his previously injured arm."
The general also found McKenzie made "a false sworn statement to a special agent of the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Division."
McKenzie was demoted to sergeant and later received a "general, under honorable conditions" discharge.
Spc. Timothy F. Canjar, 21, of Moscow, Pa., was found to have made a false statement to the army's criminal investigators and to have held a detainee's legs apart "while others kicked him in the groin," in addition to "violently twisting his previously injured arm and causing him to scream in pain."
Canjar was demoted to private ― a rank two lower than specialist ― and received a "general, under honorable conditions" discharge from his commander, Harris said.
The findings were handed down at Camp Arifjan in Kuwait on Dec. 29. The three soldiers have now returned to the United States.
A fourth soldier was charged in the same case, but Sgt. Shawna Edmondson, 24, requested and received an "other-than-honorable" discharge from the military last year rather than face a court-martial.
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subset: commoncrawl


text:
Platform two of St James Park railway station is set to finally to be extended.
The platform is approximately 37 metres long, which means it can be served by only one or two coach trains. Other train formations, such as a Class 158, must use selective door opening or single door opening at the front carriage for passengers to embark or disembark the train.
The short, Exmouth-bound platform, causes issues on matchdays, as trains no longer stop at the St James Park halt when an Exeter City game clashes with an Exeter Chiefs fixture.
But councillors on the Devon and Exeter Rail Project Working Party on Friday afternoon were told that the Department for Transport had agreed and signed off on the extension to the platform.
Network Rail will be funding the work as part of the Devon Metro strategy, but Lewis Ward, Assistant Regional Development Manager for Great Western Railway, could only tell councillors that a date for construction work would be announced by Network Rail this year.
Mr Ward said: "St James Park station is a charming station but it has small platforms and it doesn't match the user requirements. We have been making the case with Network Rail for a long time for this and we expecting to hear a construction date announced this year for the platform extension.
"The massive pressures have meant we have to suspend services at St James Park when the Chiefs and City play on the same day, but the platform extension means we will be able to revise this in the future."
He added that passengers having to exit from a single door does have safety implications and is a performance issue for GWR as it is a single track of line.
Cllr Sue Aves, the ward councillor for St Sidwells & St James, told the committee that St James Park was a heavily used station with around 87,000 people using it each year, and it was great news that the work had been agreed.
She said: "This short platform affects trains all the way to London Waterloo and I am concerned about the safety aspects of single door opening if people had to get off in a hurry. This should also help on matchdays as it should stop people parking on the roads where residents live nearby, cut congestion heading into the city, and make it easier to get to the game."
She added that she wanted to thank Exeter City fan Roger Hamilton-Kendall who had called on his fellow supporters to back a petition calling for platform two of St James Park railway station to be extended.
He had launched a petition calling for platform 2 to be extended, saying: "The volume of passengers at this popular halt has resulted in train services being suspended on certain days where the football and rugby club's respective fixtures clash. Supporters of both these clubs are now asked to board at Exeter Central to venture to their Sandy Park ground (Digby Station) and to alight at this same station and walk over a mile to the St James Park football stadium, or to their homes in the area.
"This has a negative impact on the local area and Exeter. This is a public transport service that is not providing a service. A station just yards away from a stadium that you are denied to travel too all because too many people want to use it! With sometimes one door for exit and entry for 100s of commuters it is now deemed a safety issue as well as time delaying on the rail network.
"If the platform 2 was extended then all doors of a two or four unit train could be utilised and the issue would be resolved for the good of everyone."
Mike Reddaway, chairman of the Avocet Line Rail Users Group, after the meeting said it was great news that the platform extension will go ahead. He said: "We have worked towards this for many years. It will be an improvement for passengers and for their safety, but will also improve the punctuality of trains along the line. This is big news for the station and good it is going to go ahead."
No date for when the work will take place has yet been announced.


text: This year, we lost a dear friend, Bernie Kelly. Bernie served as our racing secretary, organizer and fervent supporter," said VDM chairman Derek Delaney. "We created the Bernie Kelly Memorial Mares FFA Pace in her honour. Bernie always encouraged us to keep evolving, this will be the inaugural running of a Mares FFA Pace at the VDM in her memory.


text:
Prominent Site off I-695 Now Being Cleared for Development
Whalen Properties has begun the grading process for the first phase of development at 350 Kenwood Avenue in Catonsville, Maryland. Sitting immediately off I-695 at the Wilkens Avenue interchange, plans call for a four-story, 90,537 square foot class A LEED Silver office building.
"We are excited to kick off the development process for 350 Kenwood and are committed to keeping the project moving," stated Steve Whalen, owner. "Initial interest has been strong, we look forward to moving to the next phase."
350 Kenwood presents a sought-after corporate address in Baltimore County. The building will offer tenants unmatched visibility and access, highly efficient building systems, a compact core, extensive window lines, and more. 350 Kenwood will also include three levels of free garage parking plus surface parking.
"350 Kenwood presents companies the opportunity to obtain prominent Class A office space in western Baltimore County with unmatched Beltway access and proximity to numerous market drivers including CMS and Social Security," stated Hayes Merkert, Senior Vice President with leasing company MacKenzie Commercial Real Estate Services. "This project fills a void of class A office space in this market segment and is ideal for a number of users."
For more information on this project, please visit www.350kenwood.com. For leasing inquiries contact Hayes Merkert at firstname.lastname@example.com or 443-798-9344; Adam Nachlas at firstname.lastname@example.com or 443-798-9343; Maggie Merkert at firstname.lastname@example.com or 443-573-3214; or, Karen Deeley at 410-494-4871, or email@example.com.
MacKenzie Ventures, LLC (MacKenzie) possesses the multi-disciplined team necessary to excel in Maryland's corporate real estate community. Comprising seven firms, MacKenzie provides clients a competitive, full service platform of offerings in leasing, sales, investment sales, tenant and landlord advisory services, corporate and business consulting, commercial and residential development, general construction, property and asset management, debt and equity capital placement, and market research. With more than 225 employees and offices in Annapolis, Baltimore, Bel Air, Columbia, and Lutherville, Maryland, MacKenzie is one of the largest full service commercial real estate firms in the Mid-Atlantic. Please visit www.mackenziecommercial.com for more information.


text:
The following email brings up an important subject that is so misunderstand that I think you could ask 1,000 Christians to explain it and probably not get one who understands it correctly:
Something that has bothered me recently. What do Jews use now for a "sin offering?" Since there isn't a temple or animal sacrifices and the bible makes it clear in the Old Testament that these offerings (sin, grain, guilt etc.) are to be observed as a permanent law for the People of Israel and it must be observed from generation to generation.
Thanks, Gail
The subject this email brings up is what exactly was the purpose of the animal sacrifices commanded in the Torah to Ancient Israel? If you read the Torah itself, it gives you the idea that the sacrifices made atonement for ones sins in the same way that Jesus' death on the cross did. Under this assumption, Christians see Christ' death as the (Passover) Lamb of God as fulfilling all the sacrifices and bringing about their obsolescence. The destruction of the temple 40 years after Christ died on Passover, 30 AD seems to prove this. God didn't want them doing it anymore. Christians even go so far as to state that any attempt to resurrect sacrifices would be an affront to Christ and his work on the cross.
Of course, it does not help that most Christians are not very familiar with the Old Testament. Because there we have some very clear prophecies of the coming Millennial Temple and the animal sacrifices that will be done there. Complete with the return of Levitical priests to administer them (didn't Christ do away with that, too, when he became the high priest?). Just turn to Ezekiel 40-48 for endless details on the temple activities of the Millennium.
Ezekiel 40:42 (NIV2011) — There were also four tables of dressed stone for the burnt offerings, each a cubit and a half long, a cubit and a half wide and a cubit high. On them were placed the utensils for slaughtering the burnt offerings and the other sacrifices.
Jeremiah 33:15-18 also tells us that in the Millennium when Jesus "the Branch" is king, the Levites will make offerings again.
Jeremiah 33:15-18 (NIV2011) — 15 In those days and at that time I will make a righteous Branch sprout from David's line; he will do what is just and right in the land. 16 In those days Judah will be saved and Jerusalem will live in safety. This is the name by which it will be called: The LORD Our Righteous Savior. 17 For this is what the LORD says: David will never fail to have a man to sit on the throne of Israel, 18 nor will the Levitical priests ever fail to have a man to stand before me continually to offer burnt offerings, to burn grain offerings and to present sacrifices.
All of this is literal as it makes sense literally fine.
So why does God bring the sacrifices back? The Book of Hebrews thankfully gives the answer. First, for what the sacrifices are not see the underlined verses:
Hebrews 10:1-2, 4 (HCSB) — 1 Since the law has only a shadow of the good things to come, and not the actual form of those realities, it can never perfect the worshipers by the same sacrifices they continually offer year after year. 2 Otherwise, wouldn't they have stopped being offered, since the worshipers, once purified, would no longer have any consciousness of sins? 4 For it is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins.
Hebrews plainly says the sacrifices never took away sin. That was not their purpose. What was their purpose then? Go to verse 3
Hebrews 10:3 — But in the sacrifices there is a reminder of sins every year.
The sacrifices were an object lesson. Ancient Israelites under the Torah had to regularly give up something of value, something that cost them, to comply with the law. To put it dumbly, sacrifices were a sacrifice. You learned the dear price of sin by seeing them done by the priests regularly and having to make some out of your own wealth yourself.
This then is the key to why the sacrifices can come back and are coming back when the Kingdom of Israel is restored again (Acts 1:6). In the Millennium, the people we glorified saints rule will still be in the flesh. They will be the same slow learning, forgetful, flawed people that we all are today; people in need of constant reminders and helpful object lessons. That's what they will get again thanks to the restoration of the animal sacrifices. Because they typify the sacrifice that Jesus made, they actually glorify him, rather than denigrate or insult him.


text:
I love antique quilts. When the hubs and I go "antiquing," I'm always on the lookout for old quilts and quilt tops that need rescuing. I consider it my mission to help them escape from the store, clean them up, and give them a good home. My favorite era of antique quilts are those from the 1930's. I love the colors, the feed sacks, and the fact that the women (and some men) during that time made do with what they had. They took the time and the resources on hand to make something beautiful that would brighten their lives during the dark times of the Great Depression.
My favorite group of quilts from the 1930's is the Mountain Mist Quilts. Several months ago, my friends Lisa and Susan asked me to go with them to the Quilt Museum in Virginia. At that time, the museum had a group of the Mountain Mist Quilts on display. You could look as long as you wanted and take as many pictures as you wanted, as long as you didn't use a flash.
Before I show the pictures of the wonderful Mountain Mist quilts, let me give you a little background on the company. Mountain Mist was and is a batting company. For more than 180 years, Mountain Mist has produced batting and it's still available for purchase. Nowadays, the batting is packaged in plastic bags, but during the early days it was sold with paper wrappers around the batts. These wrappers protected the batting during shipping and while it was on the shelf. On the inside of these wrappers, the company included full instructions for one of the featured quilts. Directions for making the quilt, color suggestions, and quilt designs were also included. As new quilt patterns were developed, the outside wrappers were updated to show the new designs.
As the 1930's brought a resurgence in quilting (partly due to necessity), the Mountain Mist Company upped their quilt game a bit. They contracted with various quilters across the country to make quilts from their patterns. They worked with only the best quilters and these women would take the patterns and create beautiful quilts. These quilts made up the Mountain Mist Collection. During the 1930's and until some point in the 1960's these quilts were shipped across the country to stores that sold Mountain Mist Batting. The quilts were displayed with the batting and patterns to promote sales. And it worked beautifully. Eventually as time and tastes and hobbies changed, Mountain Mist discontinued shipping the quilts with the batting. Most of the quilts were collected at the Mountain Mist company offices and eventually they became a permanent display at the International Quilt Study Center and Museum at Quilt House at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Occasionally the university will allow the quilts out to be displayed at other museums so that quilters everywhere can enjoy and be dazzled at these quilts. That's why Lisa, Susan, and I were on our way to The Virginia Quilt Museum. The International Quilt Study Center had loaned them out to the museum for several months. And the Quilt Museum, housed in a historic house, was the perfect backdrop to these wonderful quilts.
I know this blog is "picture heavy," but these quilts are worth the viewing. If you ever get a chance to see them in person, go for it. And if you're near the Virginia Quilt Museum, be sure to take time to visit. Bonus — there's a great fabric store right down the road from it!
Until next week, Quilt With Passion!
Love and Stitches,
Sherri and Sam


text:
How can I use Flipsnack Automation for
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For instance, marketers or graphic designers can use Automation to streamline the catalog-making process. Likewise, real estate agents can create real estate listing presentations within minutes by copying data from an external database directly in their presentations.
Automation can be the perfect tool for whoever is involved in producing a large number of materials filled with many products or services, reducing the repetitive and tedious task of copy-pasting.
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text:
With one small change, we've cut out 5,042 miles of bottle travel each and every time we stock up on bottles. Over 80,000 miles of travel will be saved this year.
For the past eighteen months, we have been making strides to decrease our environmental footprint. One small step in the right direction is right here in front of you. We have switched from our 11.2-ounce, European-made bottles to 12-ounce, American-made bottles. This seemingly small change not only gives you a little more beer but also allows us to reduce our carbon emissions by way of shipping lighter weight glass over a shorter distance. Now all of our glass bottles are produced in Windsor, CO, much closer than Europe which reduces our bottle shipping distance from 5,055 miles to 13 miles!


text:
Fleece Lined Zip Jacket
Size Range: Misses
Color: Very Berry
Clearance priceActivating one of these elements will cause the product image to be updated.
Easy care and easy wear, this warm and cozy hoodie is fully lined with soft polar sherpa fleece, including the sleeves! Plus, it's packed with plenty of great style details! It has a 3-piece hood with the draw cord threaded through the button holes, a full zip front, long raglan sleeves for added warmth, front single welt pockets, a straight bottom, and ribbed cuffs and hem. With the Fleece Lined Zip Jacket, we've got you covered!
• Fleece Lined Zip Jacket.
• Fully lined with soft polar sherpa fleece, including the sleeves!
• 3-piece hood, draw cord threaded through button holes.
• Full zip front for easy on and off.
• Long raglan sleeves.
• Front single welt pockets.
• Straight bottom.
• Ribbed cuffs and hem.
• Hits below hip.
• Approx. 28"L.
• 60% cotton/40% polyester fleece knit.
• Machine wash and dry.
• Imported.


text: Everyone loves Christmas, right? It's a magical day full of food, family, new soles and yes, those ugly knitted sweaters your relatives gave you, because frankly, love knows no means of conventional fashion. Theming out of control, colab connoisseurs Concepts return with their newest project alongside Nike SB. Sticking to their guns off the back of the 'When Pigs Fly' rendition, the Dunk High silhouette is reworked with a touch of extra special holiday happiness, and is proudly named 'Ugly Sweater'. Boasting a fun-filled scene of all your favourite festive faces across the snowy grey upper, look for these arriving at select retailers just in time to get them wrapped under your tree, or better yet, an ironic gift for your most insistent yarn-yielding relative. These festive foot treats will be available in-store and online from Concepts on December 12th. Stay tuned for potential wider release info.


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Monday, 28 December 2015
Monday, 21 December 2015
Wednesday, 16 December 2015
Paperartsy | New blog post
Monday, 14 December 2015
Thursday, 10 December 2015
Sizzix | Big Shot Plus Starter Kit giveaway
Do you fancy a Big Shot Plus Starter kit?
Well, Sizzix is running an Exclusive December blogger giveaway!
Closing date: Friday 18th December 2015 at 10am GMT.
Wednesday, 9 December 2015
Sizzix | Free Coloring Paper Downloads
If you like colouring, here you have some Christmas freebies from Sizzix.
Monday, 7 December 2015
Sizzix | Gatefold Birthday card using Sizzix dies
Today I amsharing how to make this simple but effective card using the Diorama Gatefold card die from Sizzix.
Thursday, 3 December 2015
Monday, 30 November 2015
Monday, 23 November 2015
Sizzix | Quick and easy Christmas cards using die cutting
Click here or on the photo to see how.
Wednesday, 18 November 2015
Sizzix | Giveaway
Win a Big Shot Plus machine! It has the versatility of working with the entire Sizzix product library (with the exception of Bigz Pro dies) but including our smallest to our big 9" wide dies and embossing tools.
Don't miss out and enter today!
Closing date: Friday 27th November 2015 at 10am GMT.
Monday, 16 November 2015
Friday, 13 November 2015
Sizzix Competition
The Christmas Season is upon us and Sizzix is giving you a chance to win this fabulous prize? You can WIN the Big Shot™ Machine and a selection of festive dies including my snowflakes and Christmas trees, as well as other Christmas sentiment and more!
With this prize you can create wonderful holiday cards, decorations, wrapping paper, tree decorations and much more for your friends, family or yourself this Christmas.
To enter you need to click here and sign up on the Sizzix website (here)!
660200 Big Shot™ Machine
659999 Textured Impressions™ Embossing Folders 2PK - Yuletide Boulevard Set by BasicGrey®
659913 Thinlits™ Die Set 4PK - Christmas Trims #2 by Debi Potter
659914 Thinlits™ Die - From Our Home by Debi Potter
658622 Framelits™ Die Set 8PK w/Stamps - Snowflakes #2 by Paula Pascual
659002 Thinlits™ Die Set 5PK - Christmas Tree by Jen Long
660058 Thinlits™ Die Set 17PK - Holiday Words: Script by Tim Holtz®
659976 Thinlits™ Die - Ornament Tree by Paula Pascual
659978 Thinlits™ Die Set 9PK - Winter Borders & Rosette by Paula Pascual
659916 Thinlits™ Die - Merry Christmas by Debi Potter
By entering this competition you will automatically be signed up to the Sizzix.co.uk newsletter so you can be the first to hear the latest news, views and more! Closing date: Friday 27th November 2015 at 10am GMT.
Thursday, 12 November 2015
10 things I learnt at Pinterest
A couple of weeks ago I attended one of the Pinterest UK seminars which was full of information about good practices on Pinterest:
- If you run a blog or love Pinterest, getting the business account is the way to go. Its free and allows you to access a whole load of information regarding popular pins, traffic and so on.
- The number of followers is not a measure of success, engaging is (repins, favourites, traffic back to site) you can access all that info from your business settings.
- Rich pins are an important way to engage more. As are authentic long descriptions of the images will make your pins more easily found.
- Make sure that your website and blog are optimised for mobile as it does help a lot with Pinterest.
- Put the very obvious Pin It button on your blog or website.
- Content is evergreen - there is no best time to pin, and you should not be worried to pin a whole load of stuff at the same time. Well, as long as your personal and professional life allows it!
- Don't delete boards or pins. Almost no one goes to the bottom boards anyway, so even if your pride wants to make you delete unpopular pins, its not necessary! Maybe edit the description to make more authentic and/or accurate.
- You should only join Group Boards with people you would go (and probably have gone) to dinner with. Otherwise, you never know what your may get!
- Images should be very good quality and vertical. Obvious, I know! But Instagram quality isn't good enough.
- Business centre is where you should find all your information. Its a brilliant resource.
Also, I strongly suggest to follow Jennifer Priest on Social media or on RainMaker Media Works.
Now, I need to do some work on my blog...
Monday, 9 November 2015
Sizzix | Tutorial Envelope die
One die a few ways of using the envelope
Last time I was here, I showed how to make a card using the actual envelpe die. Today I am still using the same die to create cards, but slightly different this time.
For this project you will need:
Sizzix Big Shot Plus Machine Only - 660020 (for the envelope you need the larger 9" width of the Plus)
Card, Stamp, tag and adhesives
I took a prescored card that was 5 x 5 inches square when folded in half.
I placed the square die in place and secure it with low tack tape.
Because the die is almost exactly 5" you can use your standard Sizzix Big Shot to die cut this die, but for the envelope die you will need the Big Shot Plus.
Because of the amount of detail, before lifting the die I always turn it around to make sure that I have cut it through. Usually with 2 passes it is perfectly cut, but it will depend on the card.
Gently I removed all the excess bits. Because they are rather large, I didn't use the die brush.
I cut a square piece of hot pink card and attached it to the back.
Finally, I stamped the message in a white tag and added a brad trough.
I used my Big shot plus to die cut a matching square envelope.
And this is another version which I think would be nice for a wedding, two halves!
I hope you like it and try to use your dies to be creative!
Monday, 2 November 2015
Craft Asylum | New blog post
Today on the Craft Asylum blog I share a stamped garland card, using Craft aAsylums latest stamps.
Click here or on the photo to read more about it.
Saturday, 31 October 2015
Big Shot Starter it 2013 Card Butterfly
Another from the archives. I made this card in 2012 using the Big Shot Starter kit. Its busy but still I like it!
I am so happy the Starter kit is back! Makes me super happy to know that the dies and embossing folder that I designed are still liked!
Thursday, 29 October 2015
Craft Conversations with the Pros | Lara Watson
Today I have one very exciting conversation: Lara Watson, the editor of Mollie Makes.
When and how did you start in the magazine business?
I graduated with an English degree and a post-grad in magazine journalism and my first job was coordinating editorial on a trio of little local food magazines. I worked there for over 3 years before moving on to a new craft mag at Future Publishing called You Can Craft. I was production editor there – which in this case meant I was in charge of the words, scheduling, news sourcing and online work.
It closed after a year and I worked on a family history title for a little while before hearing colleagues chat about a new launch in the works called Mollie Makes. I offered to write for them in a freelance capacity and was asked to join the team as Creative Editor, where I compiled news pages and looked after social media. My Deputy Editor and Editor moved on to other projects in quite quick succession so I climbed the ladder pretty quickly, which is unusual!
You are currently the Mollie Makes editor, What responsibilities do you have as such?
It's my job to lead and manage the editorial team, plan content, watch trends and the industry. I liaise with other internal departments such as marketing and advertising, make sure everyone gets paid and has the right contract. I commission, advise, proof pages, sign things off and keep an eye on or organise all brand extension work such as our events, our book series and more. I do lots of networking!
Out of everything you do and have done, what is your favourite?
There's nothing I enjoy more than putting creative people in touch with each other and seeing how ideas can get better and better with collaboration and support. Our Mollie Makes Handmade Awards day is an annual highlight of this job for me. I'm also always striving for intelligent editorial and love the lifestyle element we have in Mollie Makes, where we can develop features and spotlight great writing, illustration and creative talent, not just step-by-step craft projects.
Your proudest moment and achievement?
Being shortlisted for Editor of the Year at the PPA New Talent Awards and Rising Star at the British Media Awards in 2014.
Is it hard to work full/part time in the magazine industry? Can you name your major challenges you face working in the craft magazine world?
The biggest challenge is resource and time. There's so much we want to do on our small team but there simply isn't room for everything when you're filling at least 108 pages from scratch every 20 days, running a world-class social media brand and writing a blog. And the rest! Editors these days have to be multi-skilled and willing to turn their hands to everything: marketing, writing, styling, event organising, presenting, video-making and shop-curating... The list goes on with each new development in our changing media environment. What was traditionally a print-based job is very different now.
What do you think is more important to succeed in this craft industry: creative talent, hard work or luck?
Truthfully it's a bit of everything. I'd say talent is the most important – it's how you first get noticed. Luck plays a part as so much of this industry can come down to whether you're in the right place at the right time, connecting with the right people. And it's never been easier to reach out to the people that make decisions now we have Twitter etc! Hard work keeps you relevant and fresh, and means you're likely to be invited back.
If you could go back in time, what would you do differently career wise?
I don't believe in regrets. Every job I've had has pushed me on in a positive way depending on what I needed at the time. Whenever I've ended up not enjoying a role, it's taught me a good lesson about myself. It's meant I've looked around for the next, better thing. Joining Mollie came at a time when I really wanted to focus on my career so I was able to throw myself in completely. At any other time it may have been overwhelming! I think you get to know what kind of work suits you over the years.
What do you look for in submissions for Mollie Makes?
Really I'm looking for something a bit different with a level of neatness, professionalism and consideration. A slightly different or unusual angle will always make me sit up and take another look. I like to see that people who pitch to me have read our magazine and understand our aesthetic. Good photography and presentation is increasingly important.
Any top tips when working with craft magazines?
It's a collaboration rather than a transaction. Working together, reading a brief thoroughly and discussing and sharing ideas is key. Keep to your deadlines (or ask for an extension if you need one!) and be friendly.
What is your favourite type of project to feature in Mollie Makes?
I'm a big crochet fan but my first creative love is papercraft so a fresh idea with pretty papers and washi tape is right up my street! I have a weak spot for stationery. Good photography and styling makes me very happy! Our art editor, Helena Tracey, is a star.
What do you think it appeals more to the Mollie Makes crowd: quick and easy; useful or really pretty projects?
We have such a wide range of readers that I try to include something for everyone. We like to always include a more time-consuming project for people who like to have a work-in-progress on the go at all times. Quick and easy is always a winner – everyone loves that feeling of completing something in an afternoon! Again, a mixture of decorative and useful is important for any craft magazine. Let's say Mollie readers aren't adverse to something as frivolous and fun as a crochet apple cosy.
What is your favourite colour in general? And to feature projects for the magazine?
I love mustard yellow, bright cerise red, duck egg blue and neutrals paired with neon yellow. Eclectic! To wear, I prefer black, navy, beige, copper or metallics with a little hint of pattern at the moment.
As a crafter yourself, what is your style, technique, project wise?
My main projects are crochet granny square blankets, scrapbooks and greetings cards. I like having a crochet blanket on the go all the time to give as a gift. I travel so much that it's handy to carry around with me on the tube etc.
Where do you go for inspiration?
Instagram and Pinterest of course! I follow a lot of great craft companies on Facebook too and am always screen grabbing interesting stories or images. Otherwise, it's just watching people, having a look in interiors and fashion shops, flicking through magazines. I like noticing what people are pinning, wearing and photographing. I love a good film, art exhibition or museum.
And finally, What is next for you? Any art or craft dreams to be explored?
We're working on our latest special – a colouring-in book with a Mollie twist, which is very exciting. We're also looking at e-commerce and the wider brand. I'd like to do more video, events and classes.
Thank you so much Lara!
You can find Lara here:
Monday, 26 October 2015
Sizzix | New tutorial make a card using the envelope die
Hi! Today I would like to share a card that I made using the new Square Envelope Die for the Big Shot Plus.
For this project you will need:
Card and adhesives
I die cut the envelope using hot pink card.
Using the scored lines as a guide, I trimmed two of the opposite triangles.
I folded the other two to make sure the scoring lines were properly marked. Then, I placed one of the detail Thinlit dies that come in the set. You get 5 different ones so there is plenty to choose from. I secured it with tape.
Because of the amount of detail, before lifting the die I always turn it around to make sure that I have cut it through. Usually with 2 passes it is perfectly cut, but it will depend on the card.
To remove all the small intricate die cuts, I used the Die release Brush and mat.
I then die cut the circle with the flower Thinlit in and the spiky one, all three dies included on the set. I die cut the spiky one out of light pink, but then preferred in white.
Finally I added a piece of lighter pink for contrast and then the seal.
This would make a lovely wedding invite, I would print the text in the light pink paper and make it double, like a card within a card.
And there it is finished. Very simple with gorgeous detail!
I hope you like it too!
Thursday, 22 October 2015
Craft Conversations with the Pros | Katie Skilton
Today I have the Craft Conversation with a new friend of mine, Katie Skilton. You may have seen her on Hochanda recently as well as other Craft TVs.
I have been paper crafting for 15 years. It started when my eldest daughter Annabelle was born and I wanted a way to document her life. I came across scrapbooking, although back then it was very basic.What type of job at first? Did you started as a creative straight away?
In 2012 I gave up my full time job as a sales and marketing manager in the orthopaedic industry as it was just too much after I had my son Jude. I originally planned to make a few cards to sell at fairs and through friends and family. I started a blog and this is when I found out about design teams. I joined a couple and from there it just took off.
I was asked by a company to do some paid work which I jumped at. From there I contacted my first magazine Cardmaking & Papercrafts who offered me some design work.Was it full time? Part time?
It started off as a part time job but I found that I loved this type of work and put a lot of time and effort into contacting editors and companies. My aim was to become full time by the time both my youngest boys were at school. This happened much sooner and I now work pretty much full time, although the hours can be spread out to suit me and my family.How do you describe your job nowadays?
Nowadays I do a real variety of work from magazine commissions to designing projects to go on the front of packaging. If there is one thing I love about this job is the versatility.
Is it hard to work full/part time in the craft industry? Can you name your major challenges you face?
It is very hard to work full time in the industry, mainly because being a freelance designer the work can come and go. Often I can have a quiet couple of weeks and then a really busy few weeks where I am working night and day to fit it all in. This is my biggest fear, as a freelance designer it has taken a huge amount of work to build up my business and this is something that I have to really focus on as without the hard work and networking with companies and people I would lose a lot of work very quickly. I think one of the biggest challenges I face is not having a design background. I am self taught but if I could do it all again I would have concentrated on design when I left school.
Out of everything you do and have done, what is your favourite?
I really like working at the craft shows around the country and sometimes further afield. It is lovely to get out and meet all the crafters that visit these shows. I get a real sense of achievement when I teach someone new to crafting a new technique and show them the best way to get the most of a product. The TV work is something I never thought I would be doing but I actually really enjoy being in front of the camera!Your proudest moment and achievement?
I have been nominated twice in 2014 and 2015 for British Card Designer Of The Year. This was a major achievement for me as only being in the industry for a short period of time I was amazed to be up there with some really talented designers.
What is your favourite project type (mini albums, cards, layouts, home decor...) and colour?
I love all paper crafting projects and it is hard to name a favourite but I do still have a real love for cardmaking. It is like miniature pieces of art. I also love home decor and the way you can make something from nothing. Although I started with scrapbooking I find this the hardest projects these days. I have to really think about the design and it doesn't come as naturally to me as other paper crafts, although I would love to do more of it and as they say practise makes perfect!
I love colours and matching the right colours are so important when designing. I like bright, fresh colours but to me white is very important as I love white space on projects. I feel this really brings out the colours in the project.
Where you go for inspiration?
I spend so much time on Pinterest! I get lost in all of the wonderful projects I see. But inspiration comes from everywhere. I live in a small fishing town and often get inspired by the seaside theme with boats and nautical themes. I also like taking ideas from fabrics and clothing I see and add those ideas into papercraft projects.
I like to think I am always moving forward. Over the past couple of months I have taken a step back to focus on family but I have a few plans for the upcoming months. I am hoping to make some changes to my existing website and add some new features. I am hoping to continue working with some of the fabulous companies I have been working with over the past few years and also looking to expand to new companies with new ideas. Eventually I would like to put my product ideas into practise but that will be a could of years off.
And finally, Do you remember when we first met? Any good/bad impressions?
I knew of Paula Pascual for a while before I met you and always found your work very inspiring so when we first met I was really excited. We first met at Stitches in Birmingham in 2014 but it wasn't until 2015 that we got to work together at Paperworld and in Glasgow. I can honestly say I have learnt so much from you from product information to great ways to teach. It has been a real pleasure to get to know you better.
You can find Katie here:
Monday, 19 October 2015
Craft Asylum | Making quick and easy cards
Today on the Craft Asylum blog I share this quick and easy cards, perfect when you have to make many in a short amount of time.
Click here or on the photo to read more about it.
Thursday, 15 October 2015
Craft Conversations with the Pros | Sara Naumann
Today is the turn for one of the most gorgeous crafters I have ever met: Sara Naumann. A really talented, hardworking and not to mention super sweet designer!
When and how did you start in the craft industry?
I started in the craft industry right after graduating from university. I answered an ad for a receptionist at a publishing company in Oregon called Hot Off The Press (HOTP). My degree is in English literature; at the time, HOTP was a craft book publisher and I thought this would be a stepping stone into the world of book publishing.
Was it full time? Part time?
I began full-time answering the phones and doing administrative work, then because the company was so small—just 25 people—I got pulled to help out in various departments. Through that, I realized I would not be happy with the tedious work of editing as I'd originally thought, but that I loved the excitement of marketing. I was lucky to discover this at the beginning of my career!
What type of job did you have at first? Did you start as a creative straight away?
Answering the phone (this was—ahem—when people used to phone companies to place an order or ask a question!), then admin work for salespeople, the marketing manager, even packing up orders. Super glamorous! After a few months, I was asked to attend an industry trade show in Chicago and help work in the booth. I couldn't believe it…traveling to an exciting city like Chicago for work felt like big time!
Shortly after I started, HOTP got in on the scrapbooking boom and changed from being a craft book publisher to being a scrapbook paper manufacturer. It grew at an amazing rate, basically doubling the year that scrapbooking really took off in the US. I was fortunate to be in on the ground floor of that and as the company grew, I took on more and different jobs and positions, including product design with sarabooks™, sarabinders™ and sarapapers™. When I left, 15 years later, it was as the Vice President of Sales and Marketing.
How do you describe your job nowadays?
I'm a freelance designer for the craft industry—as such, I'm a columnist in US and UK magazines, I design stamps for PaperArtsy, I host a weekly You Tube show, demonstrate on craft TV and write books for Search Press.
Out of everything you do and have done, what is your favourite?
I'm really lucky to say that I love it all—and love the variation. I suppose if I only did one thing, it might get repetitive after awhile. Teaching in person and demonstrating on television is amazing and really fills me up—but it can also take a lot of energy, so I'm lucky to have the chance to refuel with magazine articles and book projects that let me squirrel away in my studio and get into my zone.
Your proudest moment and achievement in this industry?
Striking out on my own after working for HOTP for 15 years. My husband got a job in the Netherlands, so we moved from Oregon to Amsterdam and I continued to work remotely for HOTP for a couple of years until I realised we weren't planning to got back to the US any time soon. The US economy hit the wall at about the same time, and I realized I needed a change from the pressure of sales and business travel. I decided to take a break, then began my own business as a freelance designer.
Shortly after, I became pregnant with my daughter and realized I was going to shift everything around in terms of work hours, projects and where I put my energy. Looking back, I can see that I was much braver than I felt at the time—that was an unsettling period and I'm proud that I stuck with it even when it felt so, so hard sometimes.
Is it hard to work full/part time in the craft industry? Can you name your major challenges you face working in this industry?
There are challenges like with any other industry. To be a freelance designer, you've got to hustle for every job—even after 20+ years in the industry, it's rare that jobs simply fall in my lap. I send a lot of proposals, go to a lot of trade shows and networking events and have a lot of meetings in order to get work. Relationships take a long time to build up and often, an opportunity comes along years after an initial meeting!
And as a freelancer, you need to be on top of your business finances and goals. This is not the most fun part of the job but it's so important to make sure that you're earning what you're worth, and spending your money and your time in the most effective way possible.
What do you think is more important to succeed in this industry: creative talent, hard work or luck?
Oh dear, I think I have to say it's that magic combination of all three—plus a good reputation, strong ethics and a dash of humor! And you've got to have patience…it can take a long time to develop a career, and you must be persistent.
One more thing: As a designer, teacher, writer…you need this unique combination of passion and pride in your work, along with a certain amount of distance and objectivity. Not everyone will love what you do, and if you work for a company, they may ask you to change some things or design to certain specifications.
If you could go back in time, what would you do differently career wise?
I'm sure there are a zillion things I could or should have done differently but I really believe that nothing is wasted. I did spend a lot of time on projects or proposals that never took off or never earned much money, but the skills I picked up or the lessons I learned from each experience added another layer to my career.
Also, what would you like to do differently style, technique, project wise?
After many years of a vintage, shabby chic look, I'm moving more and more into clean lines and contemporary colours and lines. It's actually quite fun to stand back and see how one's personal style can evolve.
What is your favourite project type to make?
Anything with paper! Cards, little books, journals, you name it. And I'm a long-time jewelry-maker, too…right now, I'm writing a book on resin jewelry that includes paper, so this combination is making me really happy!
What is your favourite color in general? And to make projects with?
My favorite color is one that PaperArtsy has produced so perfectly as a Fresco Finish paint: Mermaid. There's something about it that instantly makes me happy. I like to use this color on my projects too—in fact, I sometimes have to force myself to try different colors that I find harder to work with, like purple. Other than that, I love incorporating yellow into the mix, since it tends to either add a punch of color, or gives a gentle glow, depending on the shade and application.
Where do you go for inspiration?
Sometimes it's a matter of getting out of the studio and into real life. Clothing store displays, IKEA catalogs, going on a photo walk, traveling, music videos…they all give me a new perspective and get my brain going in a different way. I also journal every morning, and sometimes my writing will lead me to try new things as I think about projects I'm working on and wonder what might happen if I did X, Y or Z.
The worst thing for inspiration? Comparison will always get me down!
What is next for you? Any art or craft dreams to be explored?
My art and craft to-explore list is about a million miles long! The front-runner at the moment is video classes and tutorials. I'm doing more and more video work instead of traditional in-person teaching, and that's been a lot of fun and very fulfilling!
And finally, Do you remember when we first met? Any good/bad impressions?
and how important it is to meet people and network and keep craft friendships.
The first time was when you worked on creating project samples for Dawn Bibby's show on QVC. I think we met in the hustle of the craft prep room in London—that room was always so packed with craft supplies and projects in process and it seemed so fun and energetic. But there was also the time pressure of prepping for a live show, so we didn't get a chance to talk much because you were working and I was nervous about going on live TV!
Then later we both went to Portugal for one of Dawn's retreats. This was also a lot of work, but there was an evening party at the hotel—you sailed across the floor in the most amazing flamenco dance and everyone was in awe!
I also remember wanting to break out my high school Spanish with you but then realized your English is perfect and that I was probably better off not embarrassing myself.
Paula's version:
I remember seeing Sara at QVC and being so gobsmacked at how beautiful she is. Then I got to meet her over the years, and Sara is just as beautiful inside as she is on the outside!
You can find Sara here:
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Lucubrate Magazine, Issue 33, July 20th, 2018
There is no quick and easy way to export a vocational training system, or individual components, to other countries. Each country's social, cultural and economic conditions determine the methods and strategies to be used in this process.
The dual system for Technical and Vocational Education and Training
Around the world, governments, educators, and employers have expressed growing interest in German-style methods of technical and vocational education and training (TVET). In such countries, schools and firms share responsibility for providing technical and vocational education, a model often called the 'dual system of vocational training and education.' The dual system means that occupational training occurs at two linked sites, educational institutions, and workplaces. Dual education aims at matching the demands of a dynamically changing economy with the skill profiles of those graduating from educational institutions. To a large extent, dual education systems enable young people to acquire not simply technical and occupational skill, but broadly defined competencies that serve as the foundation for rewarding careers and social esteem. Little wonder that many countries have turned with renewed interest to the dual TVET system. [1]
Photo: Christina Morillo
The dual system in Germany
The dual system is firmly established in the German education system. The main characteristic of the dual system is cooperation between mainly small and medium-sized companies, on the one hand, and publicly funded vocational schools, on the other. This cooperation is regulated by law. Trainees in the dual system typically spend part of each week at a vocational school and the other part at a company or they may spend longer periods at each place before alternating. Dual training usually lasts two to three-and-a-half years.
There are currently around 330 occupations requiring formal training in Germany. Employer organizations and trade unions are the drivers when it comes to updating and creating new training regulations and occupational profiles or modernizing further training regulations. The shared responsibility between government, employers and trade unions also helps in responding to emerging new challenges such as digital innovations like the "Internet of Things" which will have an increasing impact on manufacturing and the way work is organized.[2]
In 2017, some 52 percent of young Germans graduate from Dual VET apprenticeships – and in a great many cases, once they graduate, they're offered long-term employment at the company where they did their apprenticeship. [3]
The dual system worldwide
TVET policies, and apprenticeships, in particular, have gained increased attention worldwide, and the main reason seems to be the high levels of youth unemployment internationally. German, Switzerland, and Austria, representing nations that consistently have low (youth) unemployment rates, are considered to provide a high quality of vocational training, and, are often asked for their assistance in transferring their dual models of provision abroad. These countries employ an approach which requires that the training delivered is a combination of company-based training and a part-time vocational school for apprentices; which is compulsory. One of the major advantages of this system, both for the apprentice as well as the company, is that apprentices may be employed as fully qualified skilled workers right upon completion of apprenticeship training. The apprenticeship or dual TVET system is highly recognized worldwide due to its combination of theory and practice embedded in a real-life work environment. [4]
There are many examples where the benefits of apprenticeship and dual TVET system are publicly acknowledged. After several decades of focusing on academic education and the ratio of college and university graduates as the sole indicator of the success of a national educational system, it appears that the tides have turned, with widespread praise for apprenticeship training now being at stake. Having said that, it is also important to notice that dual TVET embody policies that international academic and comparative education scholars have defined as being a "traveling policy" or a "global education policy". In general, these travel policies are the result of the successful globalization of a particular localism. These policies have strong historical, political and economic roots in specific countries, and commentators suggest that they have become global export successes due to the action of international organizations, cooperation agencies, governments of other countries and a wide range of entrepreneurship policies.[4]
Photo: Pixaby
Does one size fit all?
In a brochure in 2017 form the German government we can read [5]:
TVET "made in Germany' has become a brand name that enjoys international recognition. A low youth unemployment rate, high employment rates, and a stable economy in Germany are evidence of the fact that investing in TVET pays off.
Germany's development cooperation activities in the field of TVET are inspired by our "dual' (school- and industry-based) vocational training model. Together with our partner countries, we develop solutions tailored to their conditions and needs. At present, we are supporting more than 100 projects in 63 partner countries to assist them in improving their TVET systems.
However, is it like the dual system is the best system everywhere? In a study published in 2013, the conclusion is that "One size doesn't fit all". The vocational training systems that exist today are the result of certain historical and cultural forces. Germany's dual system, like those of other countries, has been shaped by prevailing legal norms, traditions, pedagogical principles and institutional structures. This leads to two main conclusions:
- A national vocational training system is a tool for achieving certain objectives, and these objectives can differ from one country to another. There is no "best" system; each one can be judged only by its success in achieving those objectives.
- A vocational training system is influenced by other social subsystems, and exporting it is possible only if conditions in the respective countries are comparable.
Should we then export the German vocational training system to other countries? Some argue that this would promote economic growth in the importing countries while others see it as a way of dramatically reducing the rate of (youth) unemployment. So far the results have been disappointing, as most evaluations of attempts to export the German system show little long-term effects. [6]
A closer look shows that importing a system, or parts of it, involves more than mere duplication. It is a process of selecting and adapting certain components to suit the objectives and conditions of the potential importing country. In the case of a vocational training system, a country seeking to reform its existing system does not simply replace it with that of Germany or any other country. Instead, it reviews the experiences of various countries and selects the features that best fit its own goals, structures, and culture, adapting them as necessary. [6]
There is no quick and easy way to export a vocational training system, or individual components, to other countries. Each country's social, cultural and economic conditions determine the methods and strategies to be used in this process.
Do you have a comment or do you want to give your feedback on this article? Do you want to write letters to the editor? Please use the link https://lucu.nkb.no/feedback/
References[1] Thomas F. Remington: Public-private partnerships in TVET: adapting the dual system in the United States. Journal of Vocational Education & Training (June 2018) [2] The German Vocational Training System (https://www.bmbf.de/en/the-german-vocational-training-system-2129.html) [3] https://www.dw.com/en/germany-exports-a-secret-of-its-success-vocational-education/a-38114840 [4] Dr. Oscar Valiente & Dr. Hugo Fuentes: Pilot evaluation of the Mexican Model of Dual TVET in the State of Mexico. (February 2018) [5] Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (June 2017) [6] Dieter Euler: Germany's dual vocational training system: a model for other countries? Bertelsmann Stiftung (2013)
(Photo on top: Josh Sorenson)
Lucubrate Magazine, Issue 33, July 20th, 2018
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Why Native is one of the best fast casual food franchises for entrepreneursStrong results. An impressive track record. And the freedom to innovate.
Why Native is one of the best fast casual food franchises for entrepreneursStrong results. An impressive track record. And the freedom to innovate.
In 2019, Native Grill's average sales topped $2 million.
Our restaurant franchise has been thriving for more than 40 years. But the success hasn't gone to our heads. We know that franchisees have great ideas, and we're eager to hear them. We're one of the best restaurant franchises for you to consider because we are a tight-knit group that listens and isn't afraid to try new things.
As one of the youngest and newest franchisees in the system, Michelle Kim of Mesa, Arizona, was invited to be part of Native's COVID task force in 2020. That made a big impression on Kim, who did not have previous restaurant experience. "I was invited to be part of that team along with the most tenured and experienced owner, and that just spoke volumes to me in terms of, wow, they're not only going to listen to my perspective, but they're valuing my perspective since I bring such a different viewpoint to this team.
"They just really receive my feedback well, and I can tell that they value it," she says.
Bigger isn't always better
As a smaller franchise system, we can empower franchise owners by giving them a bigger voice and room to experiment. Pat Kieny, an experienced restaurant franchise owner, was able to launch a successful catering arm at his Phoenix-area Native Grill restaurants.
"Some of the more corporate franchise brands are very rigid," Kieny says. "You have to do things exactly this way at exactly this time, blah blah blah… But Native Grill is a small enough franchise group that franchisees have some flexibility in doing things like catering, and it allows you to really take pride of ownership."
CEO Dan Chaon says offering flexibility to experienced entrepreneurs is a big deal. Brand standards maintain the franchise system's consistency, but it's important to give entrepreneurial franchise owners a voice in shaping those brand standards.
"Most of them came from big organizations like McDonald's or Wendy's or Olive Garden," Chaon says. "So for them to be able to come in and have a say-so on how the brand is run and how we develop it, that's a big deal. We let them be entrepreneurs, and we seek a ton of input from them to help the brand get better."
A franchise family
As a Native Grill franchisee, you're part of an elite and close-knit group of experienced entrepreneurs. We refer to ourselves as a franchise family, because everyone knows one another so well.
Our strong franchise support systems are backed by an informal support group of fellow franchisees, which many owners find to be just as valuable.
"There's a call every week and we text, we talk," says franchisee Matt Thiara, who has 35 years of experience in the business and has worked with some of the biggest restaurant franchises. "It's a small group, but a good group."
The svelte size of our restaurant franchise — we're still under 25 units — is one of the reasons we were able to pivot so quickly in 2020 to contact-free curbside pickup and third-party delivery. Making changes and trying new things in a large chain can be like trying to steer an oil tanker — change is slow. Native Grill & Wings is more like a speed boat — nimble and able to respond quickly to new opportunities and challenges.


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HoneyTree is very priviledged to be apart of such a special day. Very friendly and accomodating to help any bride feel at ease. HoneyTree prides herself on enhancing your beauty with a choice of a glamourous, subtle, natural or romantic hair & makeup styles preparing you in every way I can. No job is too big or too small. Bridal Trials & Group pamper parties also available .
Brides Hair & Makeup. $135
Brides Hair or Makeup. $80
Maids Hair & Makeup $105
Maids Hair or Makeup $75
Flower Girl From $35
Any other guests $105
Eyelash Strips $10
Bridal Trials available by appointment only.
Mobile - Travel fee applies
Price may vary due to technical skills required for intricate styles.


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Even stubborn organizations can change if HR professionals step up to be heard.
For more human resources stories, visit the HR Storytellers video archive.
Even stubborn organizations can change if HR professionals step up to be heard.
For more human resources stories, visit the HR Storytellers video archive.
Suppose that your former employee files a Charge of Discrimination with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. After an investigation, the EEOC concludes that there is probable cause that your company violated one or more of the federal anti-discrimination laws that the agency is tasked with enforcing.
As the topic of tax reform continues to dominate the news cycle, don't just pay attention to the hot topics like tax brackets, mortgage interest deduction and the AMT! There's some potential changes on the horizon for employer-sponsored benefits and employers and employees alike are going to be affected.
A-APPRAISE the customer's need(s).
B-BEHAVE politely and professionally.
C-CARE about the person and their concern(s). Pretend if you must.
D-DOTE on them.
E-ENJOY the interaction as much as possible.
F-FAKE it if you must, but FLOW in friendliness.
G-GRIN! Yeah, I said it.
H-HEAR the customer. Humble yourself. Don't assume you know.
I-INTERPRET their inquiry/observation/concern/praise/comment/etc. for what it's intended to be.
J-JOKE. But be careful not to go too far #inappropriate
My company typically hires interns, directly after graduation, from colleges all over the country. We hire technical degreed graduates, most with their Master's degree, to work in a highly technical profession. The degree is required, and the skill sets they learn in college are the basis from which they are mentored into a licensed profession.
Young professionals are often stereotyped for being demanding, impatient and entitled, but one thing they cannot be labeled is afraid. In fact, they're pretty much fearless. And this fearlessness is turning the workplace on its head and driving a lot of long-overdue change.
Case in point: sexual harassment.
Let's take a trip down elementary geography lane for a second. The triangle is considered the most stable shape which is why it's so commonly used around us – from bridges, camera tri-pods and bicycles – triangles provide the stability and support in many things around us.
The 2017 SHRM Diversity & Inclusion Conference & Expo in San Francisco was without a doubt an amazing experience that I will never forget. SHRM posted my first blog about the conference on October 24. This is my second blog about the conference.
It's been nearly 40 years since employers first were able to offer tax-free education assistance for undergraduate, graduate or certificate level work to their employees. The benefit was semi-permanent, with Congress reauthorizing it (sometimes retroactively) numerous times until it was finally made a permanent part of the law in early 2013.
On October 25, @shrmnextchat chatted with special guest Jennifer Benz – (@JenBenz) about Creating a Better Open Enrollment Experience.
I have been thinking a lot about Harvey Weinstein and other high-profile cases of serial sexual harassment. These cases are extraordinarily disturbing, to say the very least.
There are some who have suggested that the Weinstein nightmare is simply a Hollywood problem, dismissing it as nothing more than the age old "Hollywood casting couch." How patently wrong they are.
Attending the SHRM Diversity and Inclusion Conference & Expo has truly been an amazing experience. I first must thank the Garden State Council SHRM (GSC-SHRM) for sending myself and my Co – Chair to this amazing conference. It has been nothing but a fantastic learning experience.
1. Don't Ignore It!
I have seen it all when it comes to Halloween in the office. From nothing to all out costume and Halloween Parties with drunken pirates and everything in-between. So, what should HR allow and where is the line in the sand?
So, let's start with your actual work environment. Here are a few quick questions to ask:
Are customers or clients regularly on-site or are you sheltered from contact?
Two of the most important skills the military gave me!
Earlier this month, 18,000 people descended upon Orlando for the annual Grace Hopper Celebration of Women in Technology.
We live in an amazing time, where the influence and impact of technology permeates every aspect of our lives. We rely on technology to do our banking, stay connected with our friends, book our travel, and to manage our schedules. And yet women make up a relatively small percentage of the technical workforce.
On October 18, @shrmnextchat chatted with special guest Colmon Elridge @colmonelridge about Coaching for First-Time Leaders.
In case you missed this informative chat, you can read the tweets here:
Janet Garber tells her harrowing story about a terminated employee and his bag of knives.
To see more HR Storytellers, please click here.
In 2009, the Department of Homeland Security ("DHS") began auditing the I-9 practices of Asplundh Tree Experts Co. Last month, the Company pled guilty in Pennsylvania federal court to a charge of knowingly employing immigrants without authorization to work in the U.S. The fine: a record $95 million.
Technology is supposed to help us work smarter, not harder. While many in the U.S. report working 50 to 60 hours a week, they are shunning the traditional eight-hour workday and other outdated practices that destroy work/life balance and are no longer effective in the new world of work.
"The ultimate test of a leader is how well he/she can build leadership in others." ~ Dave Ulrich
Coaching in the workplace – it's not just for executives anymore.
There are 32 fully accredited tribal colleges and universities (TCUs) in the US with over 30,000 part and full-time students. TCUs support students in the most remote and poorest areas of the country. There are 183 tribal K-12 schools in 23 states. According to the National Science Foundation, these schools - along with non-tribal colleges and universities - produce a total of about 4,000 STEM undergraduate and graduate students per year.
My Monday Morning Musing and Challenge...
If you can quiet your mind, you can become more present with the people you meet, you lead, you follow, and you inspire. This quiet will also focus the work that you set forth to accomplish, but today's challenge is to be more present with your audience. The power of connection has more promise when you are paying full attention.
By: Lesley Simental
SHRM/CHCI Summer 2017 Scholar-Intern
"Take care of your employees, and your employees will take care of your guests." This is one of the strongest statements that I am taking away from this summer. In a hotel/resort like The Gaylord Texan, customer satisfaction and customer service are key to success.
By: Jose Chavez SHRM/CHCI Summer 2017 Scholar-Intern
By Araseli Gutierrez
SHRM/CHCI Intern
The SHRM/Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI) Internship Program opened the door to my career in human resources.
By: Erika Enriquez Zamora SHRM/CHCI Summer 2017 Scholar-Intern
On October 11, @shrmnextchat chatted with six amazing women in HR: 2017 HR Technology Conference presenter Cecile Alper-Leroux @cecilehcm; and HR leaders from the HR Tech Insiders Blogger Team – Dawn Burke @DawnHBurke, Heather Bussing @HeatherBussing
The word hacker, for most, conjures up images of a dark figure in a hoodie hunched over a keyboard.
However, as Joe Gerstandt and Jason Lauritsen shared in their 20th Annual HR Technology & Exposition Conference session The HR Hacklab: What New HR Tech Solutions Are Needed Now?, hacking in the workplace has an entirely different meaning.
We all know that not all bias is conscious. Some bias is unconscious—often, referred to as implicit bias.
This means that we may be engaging in bias without even knowing we are doing so. This is most likely to occur when we make snap judgments.
Not too long ago, women who worked in the technology industry or in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) careers would tell you that they were often the only female in the room.
As my great-grandfather would always say: "Expect the unexpected so when it reaches you you're not surprised." Good advice generally . . . but especially today. . . given the chaos caused by recent major weather events. So, what can employers do to "expect the unexpected"?
The answer is . . . Prepare.
The 2017 Human Resource Executive 20th Annual HR Technology Conference takes place October 10-13 in Las Vegas. As a 2017 HR Technology Conference Insiders Blogger, I interviewed several human resources and technology experts to get their perspective on how technology and trends are impacting the HR profession.
Portals and apps are trending, but employees still prefer talking with HR
HR is tasked with implementing strategies to develop the competencies of all employees within an organization. But often, it's HR's own staff that gets overlooked in the process. Phyllis G. Hartman's A Manager's Guide to Developing Competencies in HR Staff (SHRM, 2017) is here to help.
On October 4, @shrmnextchat chatted with special guest Jason Averbook (@JasonAverbook) about The Frictionless Workforce Experience.
In case you missed this informative chat, you can read the tweets here:
Retiring SHRM CEO Henry G. Jackson looks back on his legacy and forward to the future of HR.
Henry G. "Hank" Jackson, president and CEO of the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), will soon retire after serving since 2010 as the Society's sixth CEO. During his tenure, the world's largest HR association grew to a record 289,000 members, launched SHRM competency-based certification exams and created the SHRM Competency Model, which supports practitioners in their professional development and helps organizations identify strong HR leaders.
Arte Nathan describes his unique technique for recruiting the right employees.
For more human resources stories, visit the HR Storytellers video archive.
Balancing work and family responsibilities has become increasingly difficult in the modern workplace, as advanced technology, economic concerns and societal pressures make it hard for people to keep job and home separate. October was designated as National Work and Family Month by the U.S. Senate in 2003. This month is a good time for HR professionals to reflect and consider innovation with programs to help reconcile work-life issues.


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Following a long line of queer and feminist thinkers who have taken up intimacy as a key terrain of biopolitical struggle, this talk will explore possibilities for living intimately with plants, and especially so-called "invasive" plants, as an important invitation to rethinking ecological relationships in and for the [M]Anthropocene.
The talk will focus on mulberries in Southern Ontario – both Morus alba and M. rubra – as a way of considering the historical and ongoing biocolonial linkages between the regulation of mulberry intimacies and the regulation of human intimacies. Mulberries are particularly good plants with whom to think to imagine revived multispecies intimacies and kinships for these biopolitically complicated times.
Catriona (Cate) Sandilands is a Professor in the Faculty of Environmental Studies at York University, where she teaches in the Environmental Humanities. Her most recent book (edited) is Rising Tides: Reflections for Climate-Changing Times (Caitlin, 2019); her in-progress book
is Plantasmagoria: Botanical Encounters in the [M]Anthropocene, and she is still fielding questions about Queer Ecologies: Sex, Nature, Politics, Desire (Indiana, 2010).
Tue, 12th November, 4:00-6:00 PM, Brock University
Read more here
Posthumanism Research Institute


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dlf prominade vasant kunj
- 011- 49536395
Mon - Sun:None
Branded formal shoes for men | casual shoes for men | Joe Shu
By JOESHU
JOE SHU offers a beautiful collection of hand made Italian shoes for men which all stylish men would love to own. Joe Shu shoes are hand-crafted by a highly skilled team of designers and craftsmen from all European Countries such as Spain, Portugal, Italy and many more. JOE SHU store design is straight line and functional with an international vibe. First JOE SHU store in India has been launched at DLF PROMENADE. You can also visit the online store to shop from an amazing collection of formal shoes for men. Pay online and get your shoes delivered at your doorstep. For Domestic Shipping, we offer free shipping anywhere in India. Please allow 1-3 working days for your order to be dispatched. For International Shipping, charges are mentioned on our website. Shipping charges and transit time will vary, depending on the location. All international packages are shipped via DHL / FedEx. International delivery time is approximately 5 to 7 days.
Following categories of shoes are available in the price range of Rs. 7990 to Rs. 14990 :
FORMAL: Double Monk, Lace Up- Oxfords, Lace Ups- Brogues, Laser Cut Lace Ups, Laser Cut Slip On, Penny Moccassin, Single Monk, Slip On, Slip Ons, Tassle.
CASUALS: Lace Ups, Tassles with Fringe, Lace Ups, Tassle- Slip On, Slip Ons, Brogues- Lace Ups
SPORTIVO: Lace Ups
DRIVERS: Loafers With Ties, Penny Moccassin
HIGH TOPS: Boots, Boots- Side Zippered With Laces, Cap- Toe- Zipper, Chelsea Boots, Chelsea Brogues, High Top Plus Laces,Oxford Zippered With Laces, Zippered With Lace Up
HAND MADE IN ITALY: Brogues Lace_Ups, Cord Stitch- Lace Ups, Lace Ups, Penny Moccassin, Single Monk, Slip On, Tassle
MOC PRINTS: Capsule Slip On, Casual Slip On, Lace- Up, Lace Up- Oxfords, Penny Moccassin, Slip On With Ties,
SEMI FORMAL: Lace Ups- Brogues, Penny Moccassin, Perforated LaceUps, Slip Ons, Tassle, Tassle- Slip On
CASUAL SLIP ON: Brogues- Tassles with Fringe, Laceless Slip On, Tassle
DRESS FORMALS: Lace Ups


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The Hollywood Reporter has confirmed an earlier exclusive scoop that former "The X-Files" star Laurie Holden will play the love interest of Michael Chiklis' The Thing in 20th Century Fox's Fantastic Four, directed by Tim Story. Holden has started shooting in Vancouver.
You can check out Holden's full filmography here.
Source: Superhero Hype!


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Anam Cara Manor Enniscorthy is the perfect location to explore the South East. Located within two kilometres from Monart Destination Spa, awarded one of the top three Spa Resorts in Europe, and within one kilometre from the historic town of Enniscorthy. Enniscorthy is well known for its heritage, arts, and events.
Begin your discovery of our beautiful county by exploring some of Ireland's most popular and iconic landmarks; journey the expansive blue Flag Beaches, Garden Trail, Heritage Trail, and Craft Trail, or hike off the beaten track on one of Wexford's Walking Trails, Wexford truly has something for everyone.
Looking to relax? Explore the grounds of the Manor with its own winding woodland paths along the streams over an impressive 4.25 acres.
There are a host of activities to enjoy in Wexford, whether you're up for golf, gardens, wildlife or walking, cycling or kayaking, swimming or horse riding! The tourism industry in Wexford has been working hard to ensure our guests get the most out of their precious family time.
A calendar full of festivals, events and cultural activties are on offer year round, there's always something fun to see and do. From the renowned international Wexford Festival Opera, Rockin Food Festival to the Focal Festival in Enniscorthy there is something most weekends.
For a full list of Attractions & Events in the Area Click Here.


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At Target.
Cashier is ringing me up.
"How's your day?" he asks.
"Good! How's yours?"
"Happy New Year!"
"Happy New Year! How was your last night?"
"Good. But I'm really looking forward to this year. A fresh start, you know?"
"Yeah. Me, too." He rings up an item, "Protein bars? What, are you trying to get buff or something?"
I laugh, because I've just worked out and I'm standing their in an athletic cut t-shirt.
"Yeah. I'm trying! Trying to *cultivate mass, man!"
I'm not sure he caught the It's Always Sunny reference, but he laughs.
I'm liking this new year so far. The people of 2014 are nice.
Although I appear to be surrounded by sarcastic comedians. But I could get used to that.
Good times.


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Search UMMC
Mobile Navigation
The Advanced Education in General Dentistry Residency Program (AEGD) and the General Practice Residency Program (GPR) at the University of Mississippi School of Dentistry will provide training at levels beyond the pre-doctoral education in all aspects of general dentistry and increased comprehension of the specialties. This expanded body of knowledge will also augment the practitioner's ability to interact with other health care professionals in the modalities of treatment of the medically compromised patient.
Department of Advanced General DentistryUniversity of Mississippi School of Dentistry2500 N. State St.Jackson, MS 39216-4505Phone: (601) 984-6028


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Reminder: There is still time to register for the upcoming Virtual Conference on Jan. 15 to explore tools and techniques for teaching in the digital age. Registered attendees can log in to view presentations by local experts in the field, including transitioning from Blackboard to Canvas, Canvas Gradebook Essentials, as well as taking a deeper dive into the world of Canvas. Registration is open and free to UMKC faculty and staff.
The Virtual Conference will begin at 9:35 a.m. with an introduction from Dr. Molly Mead, Assist Vice Provost of Academic Innovation, and will conclude at 3:00 p.m.
An eighth session has been added to the agenda: UM System (and UMKC) Open & Affordable Resources Initiative. Those logging in to attend the session will learn about the University of Missouri System Affordable & Open Educational Resources Initiative, the approaches to working with faculty to expand campus conversations around affordable and open educational resources for classes, and have a discussion on what OER are and the advantages and disadvantages of using them for class.
The Canvas 101 session will focus on navigation and customization basics. At the end of the training, participants will be able to customize their Canvas profile, navigate the Canvas LMS and Canvas course sites, communicate with their students via the Inbox, make their courses and course content available to students, add and edit content, and adjust course settings.
During the Transitioning from Blackboard to Canvas session, attendees will learn how to export their Blackboard course and upload their course into the Canvas LMS platform.
In the Canvas Gradebook Essentials session, attendees will learn fundamental tips to navigate Canvas Gradebook.
Turnitin is a plagiarism prevention and etection tool. Those attending the Using Turnitin Plagiarism Detection session will be able to explore two ways to use Turnitin in Canvas courses and evaluate the benefits of the two methods.
Using Canvas and UMKC Connect for Student Retention will discuss student retention and how attendees can create early warnings using Connect's "zoom in" feature with Canvas.
In Conducting One-On-One Student Interviews with Canvas Calendar and WebEx, the presenter will demonstrate how she uses the UMKC Connect calendar, embedded in Canvas, to make appointments that are then conducted online via WebEx with students. This method of scheduling meetings can be used to advance step-by-step assignments or consulting on research, with online or face-to-face students.
Those who attend the Critical Thinking, Canvas, and Research: Designing Thought Provoking Online Research Assignments will be able to explore the various ways students go astray when approaching research assignments, and how instructors can guide them to more thoughtful, critical engagement with information sources and the research process. The presenter will discuss where critical thinking intersects with information seeking, common misconceptions and shortcuts, and practical strategies for assignment design that will help students avoid them.


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Occasionally, when I'm alone (a rarity in this e-era) a thought comes to me. But I was unable to elucidate it in sentences. Now, Atul in one of his sixteen blogs, coincidentally, expresses those feelings in a manner (as usual) that I wouldn't have managed to.
…blogs, like memories, don't die. Or something to that effect. And I believe so. People delete blogs, they stop writing at their blogs, yet blogs themselves don't die. They may be pushed back in the darkest deepest recesses of an inaccessible server somewhere, but they don't die. At worst, they don't grow – they stagnate for want of nutrition.
Blogs don't die. Bloggers do. They die two kinds of death, one of which is certain.


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Nude Descending Again
By Richard Hundley
Duchamp, the anti-artist, has always fascinated me to the point of envy. His irreverent behavior and ground-breaking ideas were so engaging that they force me to rethink my work and its purpose. His work is humorous to the passerby yet far more intelligent than any work of its time. The idea, rather than the product, was his focus. He was the greatest, laziest person ever.
Instead of creating a sculpture of a woman he became one (Rrose Sélavy). Instead of creating something that looked like a urinal he used an actual one. Instead of cleaning the dust off the glass he and Man Ray just took a photo of it.
I am a painter by training but I feel it takes too long to paint a good painting. So I began to experiment with my work by turning photography into painting. I feel as though I have found a new window of photography that has not been explored and treated as I have been doing. I have never seen results like that which I have been producing. I shoot in complete darkness with an open shutter and compose these paintings with light.
With this photograph, in particular, I wanted to recreate Duchamp's famous yet "absurd" take off on Futurism and Cubism. This photograph and my work in general have received much of the same criticism that his painting did.
click on images to enlarge
This shot is one of 20 negatives attempting the Nude. I have plans to use all the images in one frame in the form of a lenticular (3-D) print. As the viewer walks across the frame the images shift from one to another.
I currently reside in Austin, TX and collaborate with a friend on more painting-based photographic work. Our recent body of work has taken influence from the paintings of Francis Bacon. We call ourselves the Industry of Light and our new body of work is titled "Innocent X."
Please view it online
@ www.innocentx.2y.net,
William Richard Hundley