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Poland – The major significance of the rulings delivered between 13 and 15 July by the European Court of Justice and the Polish Constitutional Court is not lost on anyone in Poland. Outside of Poland, few media outlets seem to understand what is really at stake in this conflict of jurisdiction and to what extent it actually concerns all Europeans.
The importance of the issue did not go unnoticed, however, in the German newspaper Tagesspiegel, whose commentator considers that these "three days of July have shaken Europe to its foundations": "In the western part of the EU, pent-up rage against Poland – and Hungary – is likely to erupt. Can't we just kick them out? Enlargement to the east was not intended to ruin our community of values! In the East, on the other hand, many citizens will be satisfied.
It's high time someone showed the intrusive moralists in Brussels where the limits of their control lie and insisted on respecting the division of competences laid down in the Treaty,
that is to say, what is the responsibility of the member states and what is the responsibility of the EU. Secretly, some Western citizens may also feel satisfaction."
Indeed, as the German newspaper reminds us, "The source of the EU's political and legal legitimacy is the nation states. What the EU is allowed to do is based on what the member states have delegated to it in the European treaties. The organization of justice is not part of it, nor is the determination of what is taught through sex education and what say parents have in it. If the EU argues that it has no direct competence but can derive its interference from the fact that it must uphold European values such as democracy, the rule of law and equal treatment, it is skating on thin ice." The newspaper's readers are reminded that last year their own Federal Constitutional Court also rejected the idea of an automatic primacy of European law that would apply even in areas of national competence.
This reaction is in line with the analysis made in Poland by the president of the Ordo Iuris Institute Jerzy Kwaśniewski, for whom "the dispute is about whether the EU can extend its competences at will without any control by the member states, to the point of becoming a federation or a European superstate which would have the power to crush any resistance by national parliaments, governments and courts.
And we are not just talking about the EU's illegal interference in our judicial system. We are also talking about family law, which is explicitly excluded from the EU's competences by the Treaties.
Yet in the COMAN case, the ECJ ordered Romania to recognise same-sex unions and adoptions. We are also talking here about the Commission's recent threats and announcements to force member states to implement measures linked to gender ideology. Finally, we are talking about such mundane but crucial issues as the massive EU debt and the conditionality mechanism, which would allow access to EU funds to be denied on the basis of unclear and arbitrary criteria, precisely through secondary legislation. The dispute is about what the European Union should be and what Poland should be. "
And what applies to Poland also applies, of course, to the other 26 nation states that make up the European Union.
But even in Poland, reactions to the conflict of jurisdiction between the European Court of Justice and the Polish Constitutional Court depend largely on which side of the debate commentators are on: the centre-right conservative majority or the nationalist right-wing opposition, on the one hand, or the liberal centre or left-wing opposition, on the other.
For Justice Minister Zbigniew Ziobro, the Polish Constitutional Court's decision protects "the Polish constitutional order against illegal interference, usurpation and legal aggression by the EU institutions".
For Ziobro, if it is accepted that the EU Court of Justice can suspend Polish courts, it could just as easily suspend the President of the Republic or the Parliament in the future.
As for Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki, he does not hide his frustration with the way Poland is treated by the European Commission and the ECJ: "I cannot accept the idea that Poland is treated differently or, even worse, that it is discriminated against compared to very similar legal situations in Germany or Spain." Moreover, Morawiecki said, "Nowhere in the treaties has the power to reform the judicial system been delegated by the member states."
An ongoing "legal Polexit"?
Adam Bodnar, who was Poland's Ombudsman until 15 July, takes a different view: "We are still in the process of this legal Polexit which is taking place step by step. It remains to be seen where this will lead us, or whether we will eventually realise the road we are on, because the British, too, may not have known how it would all end."
Tomasz Grodzki, the Speaker of the Senate, who is a member of the centre-left Civic Platform (PO), questions the legitimacy of the Polish Constitutional Court and believes that by ratifying the Lisbon Treaty, Poland has committed itself to respecting the decisions of the ECJ, whatever they may be.
Donald Tusk, a former president of the European Council and current chairman of the European People's Party as well as interim chairman of the PO, considers that
"It is not Poland, but Kaczyński and his party that are leaving the EU. And only we Poles can effectively oppose it.
Contrary to what PiS propaganda claims, no one is holding anyone in the EU by force." Szymon Hołownia, the leader of the centrist Polska 2050 party, is of a similar opinion, and his reaction to the Polish Constitutional Court's ruling was to propose its dissolution.
However, Deputy Justice Minister Sebastian Kaleta recalled a statement made by the PO's Grzegorz Schetyna 11 years ago when he was Speaker of the Sejm: "The review of EU law by the Constitutional Court (…) is permitted. That it is possible for the Constitutional Tribunal to review EU secondary legislation results from its systemic role as the guarantor of the supremacy of the Constitution in the system of sources of law, as well as the protector of the constitutional rights and freedoms of individuals. Given the position of the Constitution as the supreme law of the Republic of Poland, the possibility of examining the conformity of EU rules with the Constitution must be accepted. "
For Jerzy Kwaśniewski of the Ordo Iuris Institute:
"We must, in the name of the balance of power and the sovereignty of the member states, put curbs on the arbitrariness of European officials.
One of the curbs is the Treaty's principle of conferral of competences, whereby the EU institutions can only act within the limits of the powers conferred on them. However, the ECJ cannot rule on this issue, as it is the very institution whose possible usurpation of power must be subject to review. It cannot therefore be a judge in its own case. The appropriate place to review EU secondary legislation is the constitutional courts, because the EU exercises its competences within the limits of the powers delegated to it under the national constitutions."


text: Key Request Form Easy access. Supervisor Name*This form must be completed by the employee supervisor. First Last Supervisor Title* Department* Email Employee Requesting Key* First Last Employee Email* I request that the above person be issued a key to open:* Key Return Date* MM slash DD slash YYYY Account # to be charged if key is not returned.* PhoneThis field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

subset: commoncrawl


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Increasing Need for Niche Security Solutions, Rapid Advancements in Technology, and Budget Pressures are Driving the Security Industry to Explore Innovative Revenue Models
This study will benefit those who are interested in learning about how business models are evolving in the security industry and potential opportunities in this segment. It discusses the key aspects of security business models and identifies use cases in various types of service-based models being adopted to address security capability requirements by end-users.
This study also details drivers, restraints and trends, and their impact on new business models in security. All security industry participants and the rest of the industry verticals will benefit as this is a visionary study investigating the big-picture perspectives of 'servistization' of security and the revenue models being pursued to achieve security objectives: how it is evolving in the future. Technology companies who are looking to feed into the digital transformation megatrend across industries will also benefit from this study as they will get to understand their potential role in the future, thus enabling them to make key business decisions. This research is aimed at identifying transformation in the industry ecosystem. Emerging business models currently being adapted by security industry stakeholders can be converted to opportunities for revenue/market share growth.
What makes our reports unique?
The research provides diverse research services focused on existing and evolving markets across the aerospace, defense and security markets, covering them at global and regional levels. The publisher provides specialist studies focused on a specific product or market segment that provides deep-dive opportunities for strategists and investors who wish to learn about the future state of any ADS market or product in terms of addressable markets, opportunities and future disruptions.
Research Scope
- Product scope: Industry Mega Trends
- Geographic scope: Global
- End-user scope: All relevant stakeholders in CNI, commercial and government, and security stakeholders
Key Issues Addressed
- How are business models evolving in security?
- What is the importance of data and how is it being monetized in the security industry?
- How is digital transformation shaping the way security products and services are offered?
- What are the major compelling factors driving the emergence of new business models in the security industry?
- Which business model will become the most preferred in each security process/application?
- What impact do new business models have along the security value chain?
Table of Contents
Companies Mentioned
A selection of companies mentioned in this report includes:
- Clear Biometrics
- Onfido
- Stanley Security
- Telstra


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Our Story
Cat & Bug Designs is about creating fun, uplifting products that make life a bit more interesting. It is run by Kristen, an indie author who writes under the pen name Karmen Lee. We specialize in handmade stickers and mugs, mostly relating to books, reading, and our love (aka dependence) on coffee. We also work with authors on creating swag to enhance their readers enjoyment.


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OSHKOSH – U.S. Senator Ron Johnson (R-WI) is filing an amicus brief today in Teigen v. Wisconsin Elections Commission opposing the use of drop boxes in Wisconsin elections.
"Fundamentally, this case must be about restoring confidence in our election system," Senator Johnson wrote in the brief. "The failure of the Courts and Congress to address the shortcomings of the 2020 election has undermined the public confidence in our elections and, in the process, has caused an alarming erosion of faith in our most treasured institutions."
In the amicus brief, Senator Johnson argues:
- Absentee voting requires precise rules to avoid the Appearance of and actual Impropriety, which Wisconsin lacks for drop boxes; and
- Failure to follow explicit statutes and evasion of the rulemaking process enables abuses.
"Drop Boxes are not authorized by any statute or rule," Senator Johnson concluded. "Their emergency use has undermined the foundations of public trust. This Court can begin to restore that public trust in this case by prohibiting the use drop boxes in the 2022 elections."
Click here to read the amicus brief.


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Ann Kurth, PhD, RN, CNM, MPH is a leader in higher education and health—with a passion to improve the world. She is the dean and Linda Koch Lorimer Professor of Nursing at Yale School of Nursing (YSN) and a professor of epidemiology of microbial diseases at Yale School of Public Health. Dean Kurth's trajectory includes education at Princeton (BA magna cum laude); research in sub-Saharan Africa; public health training at Columbia University and clinical education at Yale; and work in sectors both private (hospital systems, nonprofits, and leading universities) and public (health departments and academe). She earned her epidemiology PhD from University of Washington.
Dr. Kurth's skillsets have enabled her to work around the world with colleagues to improve the health of people and the planet. As an epidemiologist and clinically-trained nurse-midwife, Dr. Kurth's research focuses on HIV/reproductive health, and global health system strengthening, in the context of climate change and other planetary stresses. Dr. Kurth understands the mandate to leverage science to advocate for individuals, communities, and populations, to bend towards justice and equity. Dr. Kurth believes deeply in the power of universities—and nurses—to make a difference.
Dr. Kurth states that "nursing continues to be the most trusted profession year after year, and nurses can leverage this trust not only to provide guidance to patients and families, but to partner with local decision-makers in identifying at-risk populations, crafting emergency plans, and monitoring population health. Nurses have the skillsets needed to address pandemics as well as the climate crisis and related health threats: leadership in research and health care delivery; the proclivity and stamina to advocate for the voiceless; and optimism in the face of despair."
Climate change, like pandemics, affects all humans, but not
equally. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates climate change will
cause 250,000 additional deaths between 2030 and 2050 due to malnutrition, heat
stress, and malaria. COVID-19 has shown in glaring detail that communities of
color and low-income communities consistently suffer greater impacts, in terms
of both morbidity and mortality. As health systems work to adapt, nurses will
be leaders in this space.
Of late, the media has been highlighting and portraying nurses as
"heroes" during the COVID-19 pandemic. Nurses have always been
heroes, if that definition means fighting against constraints to improve care
for people and populations: Florence Nightingale, Annie Goodrich, Virginia
Henderson, Rhetaugh Dumas, and Lauren Underwood, to name a few; nurses during
the 1918 pandemic and the HIV and Ebola crises; and the nurses and midwives
that show up every day for their patients, without hesitation.
Nurses are educators, front line providers, policy makers, health systems leaders, and scientists. We can help in the global response to novel pandemics, climate change, and other environmental stressors. Let us take a pause to recognize our interconnectedness with all living things on this Earth, and be grateful for the energy, evidence, and creativity nurses bring every day.


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Washington, D.C. – The Center for American Progress today announced that Elizabeth Edwards, New York Times best-selling author, attorney, and advocate, will be joining the Center as a Senior Fellow. Mrs. Edwards will be working on health care issues and will also write occasionally for the "Wonk Room," the Center for American Progress Action Fund's newly-launched, first-of-its-kind policy rapid-response blog. "Elizabeth is a woman of extraordinary talent, knowledge, and grace," said John Podesta, President of CAP and CAPAF. "She has proven herself to be one of the most effective, tenacious, and caring spokespeople for progressive policies in the country and it is a distinct honor to have her join the Center for American Progress. We are thrilled to have her bring her talent and commitment to CAP."
Mrs. Edwards commented on her new position; "As many can attest, I have an opinion on everything. But I am particularly concerned about the state of health care in America and I am grateful to CAP for giving me the chance to continue to advocate for universal and quality health care coverage for all."
In addition to blogging for the Wonk Room, Mrs. Edwards will host policy forums to discuss issues important to hard-working Americans and central to the public policy debate.


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Dear Classmates,
Recently, I finished reading I Am Malala, a 204-page autobiography novel by Malala Yousafzai. Malala Yousafzai began her campaign for girls' education when she was only ten years old. She has won many prizes including the International Children's Peace Prize, the Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought, and the Amnesty International Ambassador of Conscience Award. I Am Malala is all about how she won these awards, and her life story of growing up in Pakistan fighting for girls' education.
I decided to read I Am Malala, because I received the book as a birthday gift. Also, many people have read it and it got quite popular so I knew it would be a good choice. Finally, I was recommended to read it. All of these things got me quite excited to flip it open and start reading.
I Am Malala, is about a girl named Malala living her ordinary life in Pakistan. She lives with her two brothers, Atal and Khushal, and her mom and dad. She goes outside to play Cricket with her brothers and neighborhood friends. Everything is normal until a man named Maulana Fazlullah broadcasts on radio telling people that woman should only go outside with a man, woman should not go to school, and that television is bad. Life starts to get very bad when he leads a group called the Taliban who goes to war with the army over these rights. Malala cannot take this and decides to spread the word about woman's education. The Taliban hear about Malala doing this and she gets shot by them. She recovers in Birmingham, England where she tells her story today, and how she did not give up to spread the word.
I was surprised when Malala talked about her family owning a TV, computer, and other electronic devices. This is because Malala's family seemed like they were in depth because of the money Malala's dad put into the schools he ran. Also, most people would think that Pakistan is not as fortunate as the United States. This helps me to understand that Pakistan has some similarities to the U.S.
There are many, many themes shown throughout I Am Malala. I'd say that one of the themes of this book is to stand up for what you believe in no matter the cost. Malala strongly believes in a right to woman's education and makes lots of speeches about it. Because of this, she got multiple threats from the Taliban, but that didn't stop her. She continued to stand up for what was right.
The character development throughout the book changed a lot. In the beginning of I Am Malala, Malala prayed to God about silly things such as being taller, but at the end of the book Malala's perspective changed. Instead, Malala was happy about being alive and cherished her life. Her perspective changed so much because of her near death experience.
I was interested in this passage, when Malala is talking about how we should be thankful for our lives. Malala Yousafzai writes:
"We human beings don't realize how great God is. He has given us an extraordinary brain and a sensitive loving heart. He has blessed us with two lips to talk and express our feelings, two eyes which see a world of colours and beauty, two feet which walk on the road of life, two hands to work for us, and two ears to hear the words of love. As I found with my ear, no one knows how much power they have in their each and every organ until they lose one."
What I love about this passage, is that it highlights the author's craft of importing lots of messages and themes into her real life story. In this particular example, Malala speaks about being thankful for your life, since she understand from her near death experience. There are many more themes, or lessons in the novel including standing up for what you believe in, human rights, importance in voices, and more. I Am Malala is a 10 out of 10.
Amelia Wasco


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Romantic 'Perfect' Blooms
Posted by Heather Jacob on
I have a bright and happy layout for you today .
I adore my garden and I took this pic a few years ago before
we had the water restrictions here in Adelaide.
I still have a lush, flourishing garden ,but I limit the blooms to Spring .
I always had plenty of blooms to pick and place inside.
I feel flowers are just perfect in every way .
the Tim Holtz / deep green Kraft-core is a perfect marriage
to showcase these bright blooms .
I added a wide strip of Prima / Romantic Novel Collection
and used Kaisercraft / Pickled Pear each side for contrast.
Prima paper - Romance Novel Collection /wordsworth
Kaiser - Pickled Pear
Tim Holtz Kraft - Core
kaisercraft bubble acrylic stamp
Tim Holtz / film strip
Prima Alphabet stickers
Green Tara Flowers
2crafty chipboard-film strip and tags
black versa color ink
Cottage Cutz / leafy foliage
Vintage Brads
metal Filliagree
gesso and machine stitching
thanks for dropping by my blog and please
why not go over to the Sassy Scrapper store
to be inspired .
bye for now
until next week
hugz from heather x


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Sweet Ticket Offer For Night Ranger This Weekend Only
Hey, Night Ranger fans, the concert thas been moved to the new date of May 27, 2021. If you already have tickets just hang on to them. If you do not have tickets already check out this sweet deal this Labor Day Weekend only:
The District in Sioux Falls is offering $15 tickets to the show Labor Day Weekend only! Here's the link to grab your exclusive offer now. Use the password: LABORDAY but don't wait too long. This offer ends Monday at 10:00 PM.
Night Ranger has a catalog of instantly recognizable hits such as "Sister Christian", "Don't Tell Me You Love Me", "When You Close Your Eyes", the anthemic "(You Can Still) Rock In America", along with "Sentimental Street", "Goodbye", "Sing Me Away", and "Four in the Morning".
Night Ranger is Jack Blades (bass, vocals), Kelly Keagy (drums, vocals), Brad Gillis (lead & rhythm guitars), Eric Levy (keyboards) and Keri Kelli (lead & rhythm guitars)
READ MORE: See 50 remote jobs that can pay well


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Chicken Breast SKNL/BNLS Family Pack 4 pcs* 6-8 oz
April 14, 2020Lean Ground Chicken (454 gram pack)
April 14, 2020Chicken Drum Sticks (2.4-2.8lb pack)
$9.99 $8.49
The Meat mix brings you the Air chilled and the meatiest possible portions of Ontario-raised Chicken Drum sticks that offer great color and juicy taste. It is professionally hand-trimmed to perfect specification at HACCP-certified plants abiding by strict standards for cleanliness. Our Chicken drum sticks are best for Crispy baked Chicken, Jerk Chicken, and or/the BBQ chicken recipes as it is darker in color than chicken breast and tend to be juicier and flavorsome.
You will get 12 pieces of locally raised Chicken Drum sticks, antibiotic-free in a 2.4- 2.8 lb professionally vacuum-sealed bag, which is flash-frozen to maintain its original taste and juiciness.
Out of stock
Chicken Drum Sticks 2.8 -3.2 lb – vacuum pack
Weight | 3 lbs |
There are no reviews yet.


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How are satellites launched in space ?
Credit: NASA – Ariane 5 Rocket
Satellites are launched into space using rockets. This is how a typical Ariane V rocket launch works carrying a satellite.
Firstly, the Rocket fires its main engine and its booster rocket engines to take off from the ground. This stage takes a lot of energy for the rocket to escape Earth's gravity. After the booster rockets finish burning, they fall away to reduce load of the rocket.
Next, the nose cone, at the very top of the rocket, covering the satellite falls off in two halves and following that the main engine stops firing and falls into the ocean.
Finally, the final engine part burns and the satellite is released to fly in its designated orbit and the satellite stretch out its solar panels to generate power as they fly in orbit.
Credit: NASA – Rocket Parts
Did you know ?
The launch rocket is initially placed vertically to allow the rocket to penetrate the densest layer of the Earth's atmosphere quickly, with less fuel consumption.
Once the rocket is launched, the rocket tilts itself in the direction specified by its flight plan, such as to the east since the Earth rotates in this direction, which gives the rocket an extra boost.


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Wondering what to do now that you've assembled your works of art? Obviously step one is to congratulate yourself, then step two is to post on insta (tag us @_youfloral)…. and now its time to think about where to put them until your big day! Depending on what you've made, you after-care instructions will differ a bit, keep reading to learn what to do!
Boutonnieres, corsages, flower crowns
- Find a tupperware container, line it with damp paper towel, put your items inside, and close the lids. Place everything in your fridge, at the warmest setting. If you keep fruits/veggies in the fridge, put them in sealed plastic bags – they emit gases that'll make your flowers prematurely die!
- Given that these items won't have hydration, we suggest making them as close to your event as possible, the night before is ideal!
Vase arrangements
- These are fantastic because they obviously have water with them. Make sure there is lots of water in the vase, no leaves underwater, and just keep these in a cool dry place – don't refrigerate! You can make these two days before the event no problem.
Greenery on a table
- If you're loose laying greenery on the table, you can pre-cut the pieces in advance, just keep them in vases/buckets of water until you're ready to use them. You can lay out the greenery the morning of your event, or even the night before – eucalyptus and ruscus are quite hardy, so they'll be fine out of water. If its really hot out, the greenery will begin to dry out, if that's not your vibe, then minimize the amount of time that the greenery is resting on the tables.
- If you're wiring the greenery into garlands, you can put the garlands into misted plastic bags (garbage bags are great), and then tie up the bag to keep everything damp. Keep the bag in a cool room, or put it in the refrigerator.
Wet foam (i.e. arch arrangements)
- Keep an eye on the foam to make sure it stays damp; you can use your kitchen sink sprayer or garden hose to refresh the foam. Flowers don't love being in foam, so try to minimize the time it'll be chilling in it.
Hopefully you find these tips helpful, if you ever have questions drop us an email (firstname.lastname@example.com) or reach out on IG @_youfloral. Happy DIY'ing!


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Volume 18, Number 06, February 8, 2015
Click here to read this issue on the web
Click here to access the complete archive To comment or submit articles, reply to firstname.lastname@example.com WAYNE'S WORDS: THE E-SYLUM FEBRUARY 8, 2015New subscribers this week include: Sara Soller. Welcome aboard! We now have 1,818 subscribers. This week we open with the latest issue of our print journal The Asylum, an announcement from Kolbe & Fanning, some more book selections from Baldwin's, and one new book. Other topics include Margo Russell, John Burns, Reed Hawn, Encased Coins, the Trial of the Pyx, and Cuba's new banknotes. To learn more about the Black Cabinet, Spintrae, Copper-Plated 1943 Steel Cents, the Queen's Remembrancer and the Five Sisters Born 1854, read on. Have a great week, everyone! Wayne Homren
ASYLUM OCTOBER-DECEMBER 2014 ISSUE PUBLISHEDEditor David Yoon writes: Another issue of The Asylum is at the printers. Here are the contents:
Remember, while The E-Sylum is free to all, only paid members of the Numismatic Bibliomania Society receive our print
journal, The Asylum. Membership is only $20 to addresses in the U.S., $25 for First Class mail, and $30 elsewhere. -Editor
For a membership application form, see:
KOLBE & FANNING ANNOUNCE ONLINE-ONLY SALESDavid Fanning forwarded this press release about a new format for some Kolbe & Fanning literature sales. Thanks. -Editor
Kolbe & Fanning Numismatic Booksellers have announced that beginning on February 28, they will begin to offer a series of online-only book auctions through their online bidding portal at auction.numislit.com. These new sales will be held in addition to our regularly held public and mail-bid sales with printed catalogues. Our plan is to hold these online sales regularly but to keep them small (300 to 400 lots). They will be held using the same online bidding software we've been using for our recent auctions, utilizing the platform developed by iCollector.com. If you've participated through the internet in any of our sales since last May, you'll know what to expect. If not, now is a good time to set up an iCollector account and see for yourself how easy it is. Our first online-only sale will be posted to our website in the next week. We'll send a separate announcement regarding it at that time. It will close on Saturday, Feb. 28 and be held as a real-time online auction. There will be no printed catalogue. While clients are encouraged to participate for themselves online, those unable to do so are certainly allowed to continue bidding in the traditional ways, as long as all absentee bids are received before the day of the sale. A PDF will be posted to the regular www.numislit.com site for ease of reference. We hope our clients will join us in welcoming this additional way of buying and selling numismatic literature. More details to come! David F. Fanning, Ph.D. Kolbe & Fanning Numismatic Booksellers LLC
Members ANA, ANS, IAPN BALDWIN'S OFFER NUMISMATIC LITERATUREBaldwin's have added some more new books to their online numismatic literature list. Here are a couple that caught my eye.
The History & Coinage of the Parthians
For more information, or to order, see:
Le Tessere Erotiche Romane
We've discussed this book before - see the earlier article. While dubbed "brothel tokens" in the past, that may not be
what their erotic scenes depict. Interesting nonetheless. -Editor
For more information,
or to order, see:
To read the earlier E-Sylum article, see:
To view the complete Baldwin's book catalog, see: www.baldwin.co.uk/catalog/category/view/id/321
NEW BOOK: THE D. BRENT POGUE RARE COIN CABINETStack's Bowers Galleries has announced the availability of Dave Bowers' new book on the Pogue collection. -Editor
Hot Off the Press: Treasures From The D. Brent Pogue Rare Coin Cabinet – A National Legacy Q. David Bowers has created another masterpiece. This book tells the story of 100 of the rarest and most interesting copper, silver, and gold coins in the D. Brent Pogue Collection—how they were minted, who owned them in the past, and the factors that have made them the rarest of the rare, the finest of the fine. Written in Dave's highly readable, indeed absorbing style, we guarantee this will be a favorite. Get set for a great experience. What You Will Get
Special value: The book will list for $39.95 plus postage, although normally a limited edition of a comparable book would be $60 or more. To order, see:
MORE ON MARGO RUSSELLCorrections on Margo Russell Coverage
David Ganz Remembers Margo Russell
In those days, congressional hearings on coin matters would usually be scheduled for Thursdays at 930a.m. My job was to take notes and call the story in to Coin World News Editor Ron Keysor in this pre-internet era – a 16 to 20 paragraph story (four typewriter lines to the paragraph) that was tight on deadline. Margo always had the final word, but at 11:30 sharp – whether or not the hearing was over– my job was to call Keysor and dictate the story so that it was complete by 11:45; the paper had to still be plated and on the press at 12 noon. There was never time to type it before hand, but clear dictation and an occasional editorial query gave me a lifetime appreciation for precision in speech. For some of the years (1969-1973), I was the Washington correspondent for Krause Publications (Numismatic News– that's right, I was Burnett Anderson before he was) – and by 1974 (my first year in law school), I was a stringer writing for Coin World as well as Numismatic News and COINage Magazine – all at the same time. I freelanced More than 300 articles That Year, using my column "Under the Glass" which had been running weekly in Numismatic News since 1969, "Insider's Report" for COINAge together with feature articles under my own name and several pseudonyms (Charles Logan and Brendan Thorpe among them). There was also "Coin Market Perspective" for Coins Magazine, and freelanced stories – most of them page one items– for Coin World, to which I also added a weekly (and later monthly) column, "Law & Collectibles" [Krause was proprietary about them using "Under the Glass", which I started writing in 1965). Mostly working with Coin World's editorial staff, and eventually the news editor on a regular basis, Margo and I occasionally spoke by phone or saw each other at events. She frequently testified before the Senate or House Banking subcommittees that dealt with coinage, and, starting in 1974, so did I – but she testified and wrote about the event, and so did I (for Numismatic News and COINage generally). Usually, though we never compared our testimony beforehand, we were on the same page. It is fair to say that she viewed the two of us as competitors – in that respect, we could never be really close friends – though we had a friendly competition despite three decades age difference). She knew she was the better editor and reporter, and tolerated my occasional scoop as well as friendly competition. She was generous in making sure that I was well fed (often her treat) and that I was able to attend functions of the Numismatic Literary Guild as well as press conferences.; she did the same for Paul Whitnah, a lifelong friend of mine (who was two years older than me). But she was an aggressive newspaper editor, reporter, and – she herself was an occasional government official who testified before Congress, was vice chair of the Bicentennial Commission's Coins & Medals Advisory Panel, and a well-known person to run interference if she thought the ANA ought to take a position that was diametrically opposed to her opinion. (She often suggested names to the ANA board for medals of merit and other awards). I look back at my notes to the bicentennial period and think, with hindsight, Margo was under-rated. I know that she pushed Mary Brooks on the issue of a gold bicentennial coin and medal (the medal was produced) and felt that the use of the 50 cent piece and dollar just wasn't appropriate for the 200th anniversary of American independence. The minutes of the Coins & Medals Advisory Panel in or around 1972-3 show how she operated behind the scenes, first advocating a change across the board of US coinage for the bicentennnial and secondly, a gold medal for the event and, possibly a gold coin. (Though not a collector herself, she understood that collectors want to collect and that in and of itself this was sufficient basis to break precedent and have a gold coin issue, My book 14 Bits which appeared in 1976 and later serialized in The Numismatist, briefly recalls some of her positions: "It has been recommended by this Panel that there be a commemorative coin," commented Dr. Lynn Carroll, a staff member of the ARBC, but in what turned out to be a characteristic understatement, he added "we don't have any expertise in the area you have seen recently,... the number of suggestions coming out in terms of paper currency as well as in terms of coins... we had suggested at the staff level, as a kind of amendment to your recommendation, that it would be appropriate to have a two-dollar coin, one cent for each year of the Nation's Independence," he said. Advisory Panel Vice Chairman Margo Russell recognized that this was the panel's first major accomplishment, but also knew that it was long overdue. "We must never let such ineptness or apathy creep into this important program again," she complained in a Feb. 15, 1972 letter to Chairman Lang(photocopy on file, ARBA, p. 4). She scooped me plenty of times, but it was my story as an outsider that broke the news that there was a Coin & Medal Advisory Panel and that its members had called for and backed circulating bicentennial coins (in January, 1970, in Numismatic News). The number of players who remember what happened are dwindling. Eric P., Newman, an advisory committee chair, will turn 104 years of age on May 25th; Mary Brooks, then the mint director, died in 2002 at age 95. (I'm a babe in all this at 63). Margo Russell witnessed history, and the rather-long footnote that I've mentioned above is one side of it that most do not know. Thanks, everyone. What a great lady. -Editor
To read the earlier E-Sylum article, see:
JOHN H. BURNS ESTATE SETTLEDPat McBride of the Pennsylvania Association of Numismatists (PAN) is the Administrator of the estate of the late numismatic
literature dealer John H. Burns. He provided this update on the settlement of the estate. -Editor
John Burns at his PAN show table (undated photo) All of John's possessions have been sold and checks were issued in December to retire his debts. This was no small endeavor, as many of you know. It came to be with a lot of help from the numismatic community. The final items were sold at the recent PAN Fall Coin show this past October. The liquidation went very well. There was a lot of enthusiasm to view and buy the large variety of material that John collected. There are some final papers to be filed with the court over the next couple of months to officially close out the estate. To everyone that helped or bought some of the items, please accept our thanks. Ed Krivoniak and Don Carlucci selling Burns estate items Wayne Homren purchasing Burns estate items As someone who's seen the Before and After of John's townhouse and multiple storage lockers, I know firsthand what a
Herculean task Pat and his helpers faced. He mobilized an army and saw the battle through to the end. He deserves a huge thank you from all of us in
the numismatic literature community. Many thanks also to everyone who donated to the John H. Burns Memorial Fund, which helped Pat defray many of the
up-front costs of administering the estate and final arrangements. -Editor
To read the earlier E-Sylum articles, see:
NOTES FROM E-SYLUM READERS: FEBRUARY 8, 2015More on Counterfeit Detection By Biting
It was only a matter of time before Amos 'n' Andy made into these electronic pages. In a Charlie Chaplin short, the big guy who was Charlie's nemesis, film after film, plays a waiter. Charlie filches a half-dollar tip off a nearby table and presents it to pay his check. The waiter bites the coin, bending it, and then gives it back to Chaplin with a look that promised a beating if a better dime were not forthcoming. To watch the scene on YouTube, see:
Larry Gaye writes: I do remember Amos and Andy from childhood. I can still hear Andy saying "Well now, King Fish" in a deep voice. I don't remember seeing him bite the coin but it certainly would be in character. I certainly will check out the video. Fred Michaelson adds: At the very end of the Income Tax episode, the Kingfish finds a Morgan Dollar on the sidewalk. That's the good news. The bad is that it distracts him so much that he puts his and Andy's income tax forms into the trash can instead of the mailbox. To read the earlier E-Sylum article, see:
Copper-Plated 1943 Steel Cents
I was amused by the advertisement for a money-making device, and it reminded me of something else often found in comic book advertising during my youth. One could purchase a "genuine" copper-plated 1943 steel cent just like the ones the U. S. Mint denied ever making. These have been plaguing coin dealers and grading services for generations and will continue to do so for many more years. Don't forget to bring your magnet... To read the earlier E-Sylum article, see:
What is the Highest Value Currency Unit?
I was wondering what the highest value currency unit is. I do not mean the largest denomination e.g. Million Dinars but the value of the unit itself. I looked online and cannot see anything. I think the lowest value is the Iranian currency. Any ideas? Great question. I'm not sure where to look for this one. Can anyone help? Thanks. -Editor
MORE ON ENCASED COINSRegarding the availability of encased Liberty Head Nickels, Alan V. Weinberg writes: A well-known fairly accessible encased V nickel is in fact known. It is a usually choice Unc 1908 Liberty nickel in a choice Unc alum encasement for a Portland Oregon bicycle shop. I've owned perhaps 5 of them. Value today perhaps $400. Bruce Perdue submitted the following notes and images on encased coins. Thanks! And he just so happens to have an image of one of
those Portland bicycle shop pieces. -Editor
In response to Bob Leonard's comments on the Bakelite encasement; Dating the manufacture of any encasement of a coin is problematical since the date of the coin in no way is indicative of the date it was encased. Point of fact I own an 1847 Large US cent encased in a stainless steel ring with an engraved message. Pretty sure that it wasn't encased in 1847. In response to Bruce Smith's comments: Encased coins are traditionally encased in an aluminum ring or washer. Brass has been used as well. However, I have a stainless steel encasement mentioned above of an 1847 Large Cent. I have encased coins of every US denomination from cent to silver dollar. I have exhibited at the Central States show my exhibit of encased coins, "A Variety of Varieties", which shows different shapes, materials and denominations well beyond the aluminum and brass material and the cents nickels and quarters. I have a loaf of bread, a maple leaf from Canada and four of the known 14 Teddy Bear shapes. I have an image of a 1911 encased V nickel. "I bring Good Luck / Keep Me and Never Go Broke" on the obv and "Guns, Bicycles and Sporting Goods / Watt Shipp Salem, Oregon " on the rev. The close up shows that the nickel was original as the design overlaps onto the coin. I have a 1948 Dime encased in the shape of Wisconsin with a brass encasement. There are many more unusual shapes and materials out there. Of my roughly 700 plus encased pieces these were the ones to come to mind. Heck I have over 75 pieces with coins encased in Lucite. Regarding the bakelite piece - this is a one of a kind hand-made piece. Was it issued? Probably not. Is it valuable? It might be as a curiosity....but I wouldn't bid on it on eBay. I like the Aragon Ballroom piece which is totally encased in plastic. Do you know the significance of Lick Pier and the Aragon Ballroom? Good question. I'm stumped. What do readers say? -Editor
Richard Greever writes: Regarding the Bakelite encasement… and Bruce Smith's comment about not being aware of liberty nickel encasements, there are several years/varieties of encasements from Salem Oregon. Unfortunately, none are in my collection. Richard provided the following entries from his token catalog (tokencatalog.com). Thanks! -Editor
Bob Van Arsdell writes: Since you've been posting encased items, I thought readers might like to see an encapsulated Peace Dollar. It was issued by Buick in 1940 and is usually thought to be a prize from a sales promotion. These tend to circulate inside the antique car hobby, so coin collectors may never have seen one. Over the years I've seen four, including one with a Morgan Dollar. There are also Pontiac money clips with mounted silver dollars; but I've never seen any Chevrolet, Oldsmobile, nor Cadillac items. Thus the promotion involving the encased silver dollars seems not to have been a GM-wide promotion, just one specific to Buick. The legend includes the name "Red" Custice. This would be Harlow H. Custice, who was promoted to President and General Manager of Buick in 1933. He was promoted to VP of General Motors in 1948. Thanks, everyone! -Editor
To read the earlier E-Sylum articles, see:
THE FIVE SISTERS BORN 1854 BY DAVID H. COHENW. David Perkins of Centennial, CO has the following question for E-Sylum readers. Can anyone help? Thanks. -Editor
In 1984, David H. Cohen authored an article in the Liberty Seated Collectors Club (LSCC) Journal titled, "The Five Sisters Born 1854." Cohen told a great story about a gentleman walking into his friend's coin store with an album of silver dollars, mostly circulated U.S. Morgan Dollars. At the end of this run of Morgan Dollars there was one page with five 1854 U.S. Liberty Seated Dollars (!). For those of you who don't know, 1854 Dollars are very rare in all grades, especially as these were "AU to MS-63" grade coins, per David. Cohen also authored one article in The Asylum (Volume VIII, No. 1, Spring 1990). The article was titled, "Dunham's easy finding list (pages 17-20). I am researching the rarity of 1854 Dollars and am looking to get in contact with this David H. Cohen, if possible. If anyone is in contact with David I'd appreciate them forwarding my e-mail contact information to him. I'm also interested in corresponding with anyone who knew him. I can be reached at email@example.com. Thanks. W. David Perkins Centennial, CO THE BOOK BAZARREFOOD STAMP CHANGE TOKEN RESEARCH UPDATERegarding his call for assistance cataloging U.S. Food stamp Change Tokens, Scott Hopkins writes: Here are the folks who responded to my call and lent a hand:
I may have missed someone. But these are the ones who I replied to and answered back, starting a conversation of sorts. Leon Saryan writes: In Bruce Smith's excellent notes about food stamp tokens, he states that the paper food stamp coupons of the 1960s to 1990a were "probably" printed at the BEP. I did not think there was any uncertainty on this point. Can you clarify? I contacted Neil Shafer about this point. He writes: Bruce Smith last week did an excellent job of presenting the overall picture of food stamps. There are just a few items that I would like to clarify. Food stamps were all uniface, from the stamp images of the 1930s to the end in 2009, regardless of design. The Bureau of Engraving did all the printing until 1971, then American Bank Note was given contracts for portions of the production. All Food Stamp Coupons and Food Coupons were illegal for collectors to hold until late June of 2009. The 1961 issue of 25c red and $1.00 black Food Stamp Coupons were issued on an experimental basis to a small number of counties considered to be low-income areas. In 1964 the orange 50c and blue $2 were introduced as the Program got underway big time. In 1970 the $5 was introduced. Change for 49c or less was required until March 1975 when the 1, $5 and $10 coupons came out. Then the change requirement went to 99c or less as the $1 could be used as change. A firm in WI called Tropical Lab and Manufacturing Company based I believe in La Crosse was responsible for large thin plastic tokens Bruce referred to. BEP printed the original food stamps and also the Food Stamp Coupons issued 1961-62. BEP also printed all the Food Coupons without date, then those dated 1967 at first without and later with serial numbers. There were two experimental printings on the Giori press; these were $2 dated 1967-G and $5 coupons dated 1970-G. Both are extremely rare; Amon Carter had the only one I ever saw in a collection; I think it was the $2. BEP printed 1971-dated Food Coupons as follows: 50c only for high value books, also $2 and $5 for regular consumption as well as the high value books. These higher face value books, introduced early in 1972, were called "household" books; they had special combinations of different denominations in the same book. There were three groups of four such booklets, with face values raised twice as allotments were changed. The first group had face values of $32, $60, $88 and $108; serial prefixes F, G, H, J respectively. Group II had face values of $36, $64, $92 and $112; serial prefixes K, L. M. N respectively. This group was in use from July 1972 to July 1973. Group III had face values of $38, $66, $94 and $116; serial prefixes P, Q, R, S respectively. Group III was phased out in March 1975 when the new designs and denominations were introduced. All coupons from any high value books re extremely scarce to very rare. American Bank note printings begin with Food Coupons dated 1971A; these were the first made outside the BEP, even though they carry the BEP logo at bottom. Those dated 1973 were also ABN products, and these omit the BEP logo. Great project. Thanks, everyone. I also put Scott in touch with Neil Shafer. -Editor
To read the earlier E-Sylum articles, see: FOOD STAMP CHANGE TOKEN INFORMATION SOUGH (www.coinbooks.org/esylum_v18n04a06.html) THE HISTORY OF FOOD STAMP CHANGE TOKENS (www.coinbooks.org/esylum_v18n05a11.html) AUTHOR SEEKS RECOLLECTIONS OF THE FRIEDBERGSDave Lange writes: I've completed the catalog portion of my new book on coin albums published by the Coin & Currency Institute, Inc. These include the Library of Coins and the Treasury of Coins. At this stage I'm writing the narrative portion of my book. I'm looking for photographs, literature and reminiscences of the Friedbergs, their publishing and their franchising of retail coin shops and departments around the country. I imagine many readers recall the Friedbergs and their employees, as well as perhaps having sold coins to them. If anyone has advertisements or photographs of a department store coin department stocked by the Friedbergs these would be particularly welcome. David W. Lange
Dave's been doing an absolutely wonderful job of researching and writing on this important area of hobby history. If you have
anything at all to offer, please contact him. Thanks. -Editor
ANA PLANS TOUR OF PROPOSED U.S. MINT SITE AT THE DALLESThe ANA published this announcement of an interesting tour planned for their upcoming March show in Portland, Oregon - a visit to a
mint that never was. -Editor
The Pacific Northwest Numismatic Association and the Willamette Coin Club have arranged a special all-day bus tour of the former proposed U.S. Mint site at The Dalles, Oregon, following the American Numismatic Association's Portland National Money Show, to be held at the Oregon Convention Center on March 5-7. The tour is scheduled for March 8, the day after National Money Show closes. The Dalles, located in Wasco County, was proposed to become a federal mint by Congress in 1864. Wasco was chosen over Portland for its well established federal location with trusted federal officials. The proposed mint was to be an ideal spot for the Gold Rush. "I stopped to look at The Dalles two years ago and thought 'This is really cool!'" Scott McClaine of PNNA said. "I realized there was a lot of knowledge to be discovered here. There hasn't been a numismatic tour of that building for 15 to 20 years; it is well due." During construction of the building, Congress halted the project because builders kept leaving to try their luck with gold in the mines, which stopped production of gold sooner than expected. The building was never finished. It is currently being used as a winery. The tour will leave DoubleTree Hotel in Portland at 8:30 a.m. and return at 6 p.m. Along the way, the bus will stop at the historic Vista House, if weather permits, and Bonneville Lock and Dam in Cascade Locks, Oregon. Registration is $100 per person and includes lunch at The Dalles. To learn more or to register for the tour, go to the PNNA website at www.pnna.org/ana/toursales.html. For more information, contact email@example.com. The Portland National Money Show features more than 500 numismatic dealers with extensive inventories; the ANA Museum Showcase, exhibiting some of the world's most valuable and beautiful coins and paper money; the Collector Exhibits area; and a wide range of educational presentations and seminars. Show hours are 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Thursday, March 5 and Friday, March 6; and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, March 7. ANA members are admitted free. For more information, go to NationalMoneyShow.com. THE ROYAL MINT'S SMALLEST AND LARGEST COINS GO ON TRIALThe Trial of the Pyx is one of the oldest traditions in minting. The February 5, 2015 issue of CoinsWeekly has a nice article
about the latest incarnation of the Royal Mint's annual coin testing procedure. -Editor
On February 3, 2015 both the smallest and the largest UK coins ever minted at The Royal Mint are among 70,000 coins on trial at the Trial of the Pyx. Weighing just one fortieth-ounce and measuring a delicate 8mm wide, the coin features a modern interpretation of Britannia. The imposing Kilo coin measures at 100mm wide and continues The Royal Mint's five-year commemoration of the centenary of the First World War. The Trial of the Pyx is an ancient annual ceremony and is one of the oldest quality assurance trials in the world. At the Trial, samples of circulating and commemorative coins produced by The Royal Mint over the last year are selected at random and weighed for accuracy. Now held at Goldsmiths' Hall, London, the Trial was first recorded publicly in 1282, and is today presided over by the Queen's Remembrancer or their deputy, who are amongst the highest legal representatives in the country, assisted by an independent jury of Liverymen of the Goldsmiths' Company. During the ceremony jury members are presented with Pyx boxes (Pyx being the Roman word for chest). The coins are selected from a random selection provided by The Royal Mint and placed in copper bowls. The remainder are placed in wooden bowls and are then weighed for accuracy. The Trial is then adjourned until May to allow time for trial coins to be tested by Goldsmiths Assay Laboratory and the National Measurement Office. Whilst modern methods such as XRF (X-Ray Fluorescence) are often used in assaying, it is still only the centuries old methods such as cupellation (the fire assaying of gold) that are accurate enough in the testing of metals and therefore remain credible for checking the accuracy of the coins of the realm for the Trial of the Pyx verdict. Modern legislation does not mention penalties for an adverse verdict by the Pyx jury, yet there have been stiff punishments for failure in the past. The Master of the Mint (today a role held by the Chancellor of the Exchequer) went to prison for six weeks in 1318 and even Sir Isaac Newton was at loggerheads with the jury during his time as master of the Mint when the integrity of his coin samples was questioned. To read the complete article, see:
THE BOOK BAZARREFOLLOW-UP ON SEARCH FOR CURRENT WORLD COINSJeff Starck of Coin World writes: In the January 25 edition, Nick Graver inquired about new issues distributors, specifically for two new coins. The Hungarian Mint does indeed have an official distributor here in the United States, and that is Arthur Friedberg (of the Gold Coin book fame). Art operates the Coin & Currency Institute (www.coin-currency.com), which also distributes coins from Germany's mints, Belgium and Portugal, among others. Because of the very focused nature of Hungarian coins, Coin World doesn't report on them frequently, but when there is a theme of broader appeal we will share stories and direct collectors toward the appropriate distributor. I am certain that Coin & Currency Institute can satisfy Mr. Graver's request for the Hungarian coin. Unfortunately, the Bulgarian Mint and National Bank do not have dedicated distributors here in the U.S., as far as I am aware. They were set up at the World Money Fair last week, though. European distributors or eBay are the most likely sources for that coin. Best of luck to Mr. Graver on his search! Nick Graver writes: Once again, the E-Sylum fraternity has come through with impressive help and amazing speed. Fellow reader Paul J. Bosco quickly suggested foreign coin specialist Lauren Benson. Richard Benson, of that firm expects to have the Bulgarian piece later in the year. He suggested Arthur L. Friedberg of the Coin & Currency Institute, official distributor of Hungarian issues. Friedberg kindly sent beautiful illustrations of the 2000 Ft piece. Then E-Sylum reader Dave Hirt wrote from Budapest, offering to go buy the Hungarian coins, which he subsequently did, in both the 10,000 Ft and 2,000 Ft. denominations! Such thoughtful assistance is very much appreciated. We will have several new pieces for our Photographic Numismatic collection and established new friends as well. Dave Hirt writes: The coin comes in two denominations : 10,000Ft in .925 silver, proof, and 2000Ft in copper-nickel, BU. I got a set for Nick and liked them so much, I bought a set for myself. The Budapest mint puts out some very nice products. To read the earlier E-Sylum article, see:
2015 MEDAL COLLECTORS OF AMERICA MEDALSkyler Liechty forwarded the following information about a new medal designed by Alex Shagin for the Medal Collectors of America
(MCA). Thanks. -Editor
The Medal Collectors of America are pleased to announce the release of their 2015 club medal. Designed by the legendary Alex Shagin. Available in a 5 oz silver version for $250 and bronze for $45, orders must be received by April 1, 2015. Please note that they are only available to MCA members. Dues are $55/year and include mailed hard copies of MCA Advisory [6 issues per year]; $25 (Includes subscription of electronic online copies of MCA Advisory). Joining is easy; send an additional payment for the medal with your order to join. For more information see: www.medalcollectors.org Please send your check or money order to:
The following is artist Alex Shagin's discussion of the medal's design. -Editor
History is Always Right
Among the most elegant pairs of sandals parked by the entrance to the Temple of Apollo, there was one that almost certainly belonged to the celator's Muse. No records survive as to an Academy voting on the likeness of the Nymph Aretusa – the one done by Kimon or that by Eautanetos. Today, we simply enjoy them both. When, come the Renaissance, the noble art of medal-making had been resurrected, there still was no "Academy Award Night" to choose between Antonio (of Pisa) and Benvenuto ( of the Cellini family) and many others toiling in their shops to outdo the ancients. When the first steam engines arrived in the 19th century, the art of die-sinking had spread all over Europe. These machines enabled the art of the "mini-monuments" that could be passed from hand to hand and left well rested in the safety of cabinet drawers, or passed from grandfathers to grandchildren as cherished heirlooms. Between Pistrucchi, Wyon and Dupre, there was no bitter rivalry nor Academy Awards at which to aim. The patrons of the arts were just doing what felt right. The "king of hobbies" craved no prime television time, because the celator's Muse preferred to work hand in hand with Clio, the Historian, and stayed away from the executives in Central Casting. Just a short time later came the era of the "Peace and Friendship" medals that got a great deal of recognition and support on both sides of the Atlantic. Native chiefs were proud of these coveted trophies, seeking to show them off even on their way to places of eternal rest. That glorious tradition celebrating the diplomatic ties between the European powers and First Peoples has left modern day scholars with some of the greatest examples of numismatic art – art that served to immortalize. These medals are pieces of our cultural history that have kept civilization on the march (and connoisseurs on their toes). As memorials, they continue to educate and entertain and inspire. This, then, is what the 2015 MCA Club medal is seeking to re-enact, doing so without a big budget, wide screen theatres or Hollywood searchlights. Our medal focuses on some of the golden moments of history, with the aim to appeal to patrons of art and craftsmanship. Our hobby has been "the privilege of few and the envy of many" for over 25 centuries. So many faithful practitioners and generous supporters have worked for so long to preserve this cultural celebration of the creative spirit and the progress of the human race that it feels almost too easy for us today to fill those "sandals" and follow the footsteps of the old masters in our attempt to deliver the "message" and to share the "stage" with all people of good will. Yet, as in so many instances of turbulent eras in the past, we are still finding our culture at the crossroads (and in the cross-hairs) of the conflicting agendas and demands being presented to our small group of enthusiasts as well as modern day society as a whole. Your recognition of the message encoded in this new design ("AS WE REMEMBER, SO WE WILL BE REMEMBERED") will be crucial for the future of an "authors-generated" art and its ability to contribute to the well-being of the medium. This we say even as we witness the ongoing process of revision and "modernization"; ours is like the basketry craft competing with plastic containers. Before we are history let us remember Abe Lincoln's immortal words, "We cannot escape history". Thus, history is going to remain the most demanding judge and jury. I give you this medal not expecting awards or fanfare, just your simple enjoyment of what the art can produce. HARVEY STACK ON THE COLLECTIONS OF REED HAWNThe latest installment of Harvey Stack's blog discusses the coin collection of Reed Hawn. Here it is in its entirety.
Reed Hawn, a Texas oilman and Arabian horse breeder, became known to the collecting world during the last quarter of the 20th century. He started collecting coins from change when he was nine years old, placing them in a coin album. He learned about rarity and quality from handling coins and reading all he could about them. In 1961 at the age of 12, he and his family traveled to New York from Austin, Texas. Reed visited Stack's and began his deep involvement in collecting rare and choice coins, initially with the help of his father, Bill Hawn, who felt that a hobby could offer education and possible investment for his young son. By the time Reed reach age 24, he had assembled an outstanding collection of United States coins, with a specialty in half dollars. That collection was sold by Stack's in New York in 1973, attracting collectors and buyers from all over the United States. Reed recalled in a later interview that the scope and quality of the coins he had assembled led to a standing room only auction venue, where it was difficult to get through the doors. Record prices were bid, large gains in value were attained, and Reed felt his connoisseurship, following guidance from the Stack family, led to the success of the sale. His long time desire, even at the age of 24, was to own two coins heralded as "keys" to the American series. Shortly after the sale of his collection in 1973, he purchased the famous Mickley 1804 Class I silver dollar for $150,000 in a private sale from Stack's. At the time this was a record price for any coin sold at auction or by private treaty. That coin is known today as the Mickley-Hawn Class I 1804 silver dollar. The other prize he always wanted to own was a 1913 Liberty Head nickel, heralded during the 20th century as a great rarity. People were urged by coin dealers to "check their change daily" to find one. At one time, Col. E.H.R. Green owned all five known pieces, but most people never had the chance to own even one. However, the challenge of looking opened the field of coin collecting to many. During the Jerry Buss Collection sale in the late 1980s, the 1913 was offered and Reed bought it. Now he owned both his dream coins! From the time he sold his first collection in 1973 until he decided he needed to sell the second in 1993 Reed traded other series of U.S. coins, from the cent to the double eagle. He sought the highest quality he could find and gathered some great rarities when they became available in the market. Many "finest knowns" were part of his holdings. His knowledge and connoisseurship continued to grow. Reed Hawn's great knowledge of numismatics, and his financial and monetary background led to his acting as advisor to Senator Lloyd Bentsen of Texas, for monetary and coinage matters. Later Reed was nominated and served for over a decade on both the Citizen's Commemorative Advisory Committee for Congress and the U.S. Mint, and the Citizen's Coinage Advisory Committee. When Lloyd Bentsen served as President Clinton's First Secretary of the Treasury, Reed worked with the Treasury as he did during his time on the Advisory Committees. While on the committees, he and Kenneth Bressett, a prominent numismatist, author and past president of the American Numismatic Association, argued with Mint officials and other members of the Advisory committee, about the large quantity of special coins being struck and the profit being made by the Mint. But they were unable to get the Mint to see the collectors' point of view. Many new collectors left the hobby, as keeping up with the many Mint products was nearly impossible and losses were sustained by many who purchased them. Reed Hawn developed a keen knowledge of the way Washington works and the way the Mint functions. Because of this and his background in numismatics and monetary matters, he was asked if he would consider the position of Mint director when candidates were being submitted to the Obama Administration in 2009, When asked if he would consider the job, he said the of course he would. He felt he had the necessary background having worked so long with the Mint advisory committee, his relations with Lloyd Bentsen's office, and his numismatic background. When asked what he would he do as director, Reed responded that he would first listen and review what was done in the past. He would then make suggestions and take actions to improve the performance of the Mint. He would also address the ways coins were handled and sold by the Mint, which had resulted in citizen complaints about the high profits and overproduction of many Mint commemorative issues. He also noted that as a collector he knew what motivated individuals to collect and save. He felt that the Mint could improve how it treated collectors and that he would concentrate on that. As collectors supported the Mint through their purchase of commemorative products and coins with special finishes or strikings, Reed believed: "You got to treat them right!" Reed Hawn's collecting background and personal dedication to what collectors want and need inspires him to be an advocate for the collector, young and old. I personally believe that the next director of the Mint should be a current or past coin collector who understands what supply and demand does for a hobby. If he is still available when the job opens again, I would be the first the recommend and endorse the nomination of Reed Hawn. To read the complete article, see:
PENNIES CHANGED THE COLOR OF A HOT SPRINGOld coins should be disposed of properly, as in piggy banks and coin collections. Here's what can happen when too many tourists
toss coins into an otherwise pristine natural resource. -Editor
Yellowstone National Park's Morning Glory thermal spring used to be deep blue but its current yellow and green hues were caused in part by tourists throwing coins, rocks, and assorted crap into the pool. The detritus has the effect of "partially blocking the underground heat source and lowering the temperature of the spring to a range habitable by photosynthetic microorganisms that probably didn't live there before" and produce pigments that result in the yellow and green color, according to a Science Friday article. The image at right is from 1966 To read the complete article, see:
To read the original Science Friday article, see:
THE BOOK BAZARRECUBA UNVEILS LARGE DENOMINATION BANKNOTESThis article from Cuba describes that island nation's new large denomination banknotes. -Editor
The Cuban largest denomination bills, of 200, 500 and 1000 Cuban pesos began circulating on Sunday in the country, in order to facilitate transactions in that currency (CUP) in dollar stores (TRD) as announced by the Central Bank of Cuba (BCC). Backed by Resolution No. 4 of January 15, 2015, and published on the same date in the Gazette Extraordinary No. 3, the measure seeks to streamline operations and reduce risk levels by avoiding the use of large amounts of money in low denomination bills. Francisco Mayobre Lence, vice president of BCC, recently told reporters that the new notes would be put in circulation on February first but gradually, through entities Banco Metropolitano, People's Savings Bank, the Bank of Credit and Trade and the Exchange Houses, known as CADECAs. He clarified that by now they will prioritize Havana, provincial capitals and some municipalities, which is in line with the level of operations that has manifested in certain places. He emphasized on the need for people to learn to identify the new banknotes, which among its security measures have two watermarks, one with the image of Celia Sánchez; the number that corresponds to them; the security thread; embossed printing, and the initials of the BCC. With predominance of orange, the 200 peso banknote has the image of patriot Frank País and in the back an allegory of the School City July 26, and in the 500, in which prevails the green color, has the bust of Ignacio Agramonte, and on the back a painting of the Constituent Assembly of Guáimaro. The 1000 peso banknote is brown, with the figure of Julio Antonio Mella and a graphic composition of the University of Havana. To read the complete article, see:
THE BOOK BAZARRETEXAS MAN PAYS TAXES IN FOLDED DOLLAR BILLSEvery now and then comes a story of someone who gets the bright idea to "stick it to the man" and pay their taxes in
pennies or some other labor-intensive cash form. Here's a new twist on that gambit (er, a fold, actually). Paul Horner also sent this one in.
Thanks. -Editor
A Wichita Falls man made news last week when he was arrested while trying to pay his property taxes. Only there's a little bit more to the story than that. The 27-year old Texan, Timothy Andrew Norris, arrived in person at the Wichita County Courthouse to pay his $600 property tax with individual dollar bills – only there was a twist. Or, er, a fold. Norris had allegedly folded each bill so tightly that it "required tax office personnel approximately six minutes to unfold each bill." If you're doing the math, that means that it would take 3,600 minutes – or 60 hours, longer than a work week – to unfold the bills. Tax Assessor Collector Tommy Smyth said that the spectacle brought work in the office to a halt so he asked Norris to leave. Norris refused and was eventually arrested and charged with criminal trespass. As you can imagine, Norris was none too happy about being arrested and attempted to break away from the arresting officer, earning him an additional charge of resisting arrest. Texas makes it clear that cash is an acceptable form of payment for property taxes. At Section 31.06 of the Texas Code: A collector shall accept United States currency or a check or money order in payment of taxes and shall accept payment by credit card or electronic funds transfer. The same is true for the feds. There is no law that says you have to pay your taxes by check, credit card or by using the largest bills possible. By federal law, at Section 31 U.S.C. 5103, you can pay your taxes in coins and currency: United States coins and currency (including Federal reserve notes and circulating notes of Federal reserve banks and national banks) are legal tender for all debts, public charges, taxes, and dues. You may not want to try this at home. When you pay your taxes in cash, you'll need proof of payment, which means you need a receipt. If you make it difficult for your payment to be counted, you might not get that receipt. The tax office isn't staying open extra hours to count your money – nor do they have an obligation to do so. I'm guessing that you could make the argument that the tax office is required to count your cash every day until they have a total (and therefore a receipt) for you. In the case of Mr. Norris, assuming that they put a staffer on unfolding and counting his cash payment every day, it would take over a week to process, likely making Mr. Norris' tax payment late. Of course, we weren't in the tax assessor's office that day but I'm guessing Norris didn't offer to come back the next day. Again, we don't know what happened exactly. We just know it didn't end well. To read the complete article, see:
FEATURED WEB PAGE: THE BLACK CABINETThis week's Featured Web Page is the Black Cabinet, an online database of counterfeit American coinage currently in circulation. Thanks to Larry Dziubek for a tip that led me here.When coin collectors have a collection of counterfeit coins for their own personal reference, such a collection is generally known as a "black cabinet." Likewise, The Black Cabinet is a database and reference library of counterfeit American coinage currently in circulation. Its purpose is to educate coin collectors and the general public about counterfeits and their impact upon the hobby. www.theblackcabinet.org |


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How Should I Handle Visitation When My Child Doesn't Want to Go?
- Child Visitation
- Don't Automatically Assume Your Child Is in Danger with Your Ex
- Assess Your Child's Unhappiness With Help From a Professional
- If You Have Real Concerns About Your Child's Safety, Contact a Custody Lawyer Immediately
- What Should I Do If My Ex Is Interfering With My Visitation Rights?
- You can Modify the Visitation Schedule if There's Been a Significant Change in Your Family's Circumstances
- Myers Law Firm: Child Custody Lawyers for Parents in Charlotte and Mecklenburg County
Child Visitation
Watching your child leave for a visitation with the other parent can be gut-wrenching, especially if your child is acting like she doesn't want to leave you. However, children can get upset at a visitation hand-off for many reasons. While you should always take your child's safety and welfare seriously, it's also important that you don't act out of raw emotion and do something that could get you in a lot of trouble with the court.
Rather than trying to prevent the child from going with the other parent, the right way to address a serious concern is to work with an attorney and file a petition to modify your child custody order. However, before you take that step, it's important to assess your child's situation carefully. In this article, we'll provide some guidelines you can use to do that.
Don't Automatically Assume Your Child Is in Danger with Your Ex
It's important to remember that the younger your child is, the fewer tools they have to express and explain their feelings. Depending on their age and level of development, your child may cry because they are anxious, afraid, sad, uncertain, or just tired and hungry. While it can be tempting to assume that your child gets upset at a visitation handoff because they don't like your ex (especially if that's how you feel), that's rarely a fair assumption. Frequently, both parents will make claims that the child is upset when returning to the other parent. Your child might be upset for a variety of other reasons, including the ones listed below.
RELATED ARTICLE: Can I Prevent My Spouse From Seeing the Children During a Divorce?
They're Mimicking Subtle Cues That You're Upset
Even if you're not openly badmouthing your ex, it's easy to accidentally voice your unhappiness with a visitation schedule or some other aspect of your relationship with them. For example, think about the emotional impact of these statements and gestures:
- "I don't want you to go, but your mom says you have to."
- "I'll miss you so much! I'll be sad all weekend without you."
- "I'm so glad you're home! I can't stand being away from you."
- You refuse to leave the car or make eye contact with your ex during the hand-off.
- You're tearful or tense every time you drop your child off.
- You cry in relief when your child returns home.
Children are great observers, but they don't have the sophistication to understand the practical aspects of divorce, which means they'll look to you for guidance. When you seem sad, anxious, or hurt at a visitation hand-off, they may pick up on your emotional state and assume that they're not safe with the other parent or that you're upset with them for leaving.
They're Trying to Validate Your Importance
Sometimes, children will feign sadness to make you feel better. They might know you feel sad or conflicted about their time with their other parent. Because of this, they might feel uncomfortable happily running to their other parent and think that you'll feel better if they seem sad to leave you.
Change Is Difficult for Kids
Changes and transitions can be hard for children regardless of their age. Think about how difficult it was for you to switch schools or move to a new neighborhood as a child. No matter how positive your child's time is with their other parent, the process of leaving you and your home might bring about anxiety.
They'd Rather Do Something Else
As children age, their priorities shift. Rather than spend time with their parents, they may prefer to hang out with friends. They may also increasingly want to avoid chores and other family obligations, and they may resent it when those obligations cause them to miss out on something that they'd prefer to do. If a visitation schedule conflicts with a child's social or extracurricular schedule, either parent can experience pushback from the child.
Assess Your Child's Unhappiness With Help From a Professional
When your child is resisting visitation, do your best to assess the situation impartially. In most cases, you need to encourage the child's relationship with the other parent, even if it's difficult for you to do so. Try not to get into discussions about the other parent that may paint the other parent in a negative light because of your own view. Instead, help make the transition positive and be encouraging.
RELATED ARTICLE: 7 Mistakes That Can Hurt Your Child Custody Case
If you need help with this process, consult a trained counselor or a child custody lawyer. A professional can help you identify the core issues your child is having with visitation and work with you to build a comprehensive plan that protects your child's emotional and physical health.
"I wanted to thank you. I know it takes a lot to put together a case. After the first time meeting with you, you remembered our information, barely referring to your notes and continued to do so. You were generous with your thoughts and ideas as to how we could get what we were hoping for and it's so appreciated. We couldn't have gotten the verdict yesterday without you....It really does make a difference that you seem to care."
"I went to another law firm and they turned me down…would not take my case. Myers Law Firm met with me, handled my case and would not back down from insurance company. Even when they had to file suit to protect me for my personal injury and property damage. I received a very fair settlement. Mr. Myers I appreciate you and your staff."
"Mr. Lee-Thanks to you and Bessie for all of your help last year and most recently with the referral. I sold the house and the kids and I moved 8 days before Christmas. God is good, faithful and true."
Let us help you.
SCHEDULE YOUR CONSULTATIONIf You Have Real Concerns About Your Child's Safety, Contact a Custody Lawyer Immediately
Your child's safety is your top priority, and you have legal options if you genuinely believe that visitation with the other parent poses a threat to your child's safety and well-being. First, if you believe your child is in imminent danger, you should call 911 and inform the authorities.
After that, contact a child custody lawyer. A lawyer can work with you to quickly create an emergency response plan. This plan might involve a protective order against an abusive parent, a temporary modification in the visitation schedule, or other protections for your child.
What Should I Do If My Ex Is Interfering With My Visitation Rights?
North Carolina law recognizes that children typically benefit from having meaningful relationships with both parents and establishes many legal protections for both parents' custody rights. If you believe that your ex is interfering with your visitation rights or attempting to damage your relationship with your child, contact a child custody lawyer immediately. If the other parent has violated the court's child custody order, it can lead to civil or criminal contempt of court charges, and it also might merit a change to your existing parenting plan or child custody order.
You Can Modify the Visitation Schedule if There's Been a Significant Change in Your Family's Circumstances
As your child's needs change, so can your visitation schedule. If it looks like your child has outgrown their existing child custody plan, or if your family's circumstances have changed, it's time to consult an experienced family law attorney.
RELATED ARTICLE: Use These 5 Tips to Make a Parenting Plan That Works
Sometimes, a lawyer can help you negotiate a new parenting plan with your ex outside of court. However, if this doesn't work or isn't appropriate due to your circumstances, your lawyer can help you file a petition to modify visitation.
Myers Law Firm: Child Custody Lawyers for Parents in Charlotte and Mecklenburg County
Myers Law Firm is one of Charlotte's leading family law and child custody firms. If you need help with a child custody issue, contact us to schedule your initial consultation. We'll listen to your story and help you understand your legal options. To request your consultation today, simply complete our online form or call us at (888) 376-2889.
Definitions, Article 1, Chapter 50, N.C. General Statutes. § 50-16.1A. (2015). Retrieved from http://www.ncleg.net/EnactedLegislation/Statutes/PDF/BySection/Chapter_50/GS_50-16.1A.pdf
The content provided here is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice on any subject.
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Wedding plans: it's for the girls
My fiancé and I were g-chatting about the wedding last week and we got onto the subject of cookie bags.
My sister wants to make some sort of personalized treat that we can serve at the end of the night, sort of like an edible favor. I sent Awesome some links to some different treat bags I was considering and asked for his opinion, to which he replied, "Babe. You need to just pull the trigger on some of this stuff. Like bags for the cookies? They could be Ziploc bags for all I care."
Hence the issue with asking your male partner to help you plan your wedding. Weddings are all about the details, and some men just don't get that. It's easy to choose the big stuff – food, venue, DJ. But when it comes to planning the stuff that makes your wedding unique and different from all the others out there, they are clueless.
We are planning to buy and supply our own alcohol – beer and wine, with a signature drink. One night while watching House of Cards (our new obsession) I was inwardly fretting about how we were going to serve the alcohol. I know, how can I be thinking about the wedding while watching a well-written, fantastically-acted Netflix drama starring Kevin Spacey?
Well here's the God's honest truth … I think about the wedding 100 percent of the time I am fully conscious. At work half my brain is thinking about whatever task I am accomplishing while the other half is pondering what color tablecloths would look best with our centerpieces.
Anyway, I'm thinking about alcohol distribution and Awesome can tell I'm not as into the show as I normally am, because I'm not reacting to what's happening on screen, so he asks what is wrong and I tell him. He fires up my tablet and finds some galvanized tin buckets on Home Depot's website, and says "There. We will serve the beers in these things. Done!"
As I slowly realized he was trying to be helpful, it also dawned on me that he had literally no idea what he was getting himself into when he gave me this "solution."
I turned to him, paused House of Cards, and let loose what I was really thinking.
"Sure, we could use those. But tell me, where are we going to get the ice? Who is going to pick it up? How much ice do we need for both drink refreshment and temperature regulation? When the ice melts and the beers get warm who is going to refill the ice? Who is going to refill the beers when they are gone? Where are we going to put the tins? How many are we going to buy? Are we also using the tins for sodas and water? Is the price in the budget?" and on and on until Awesome looked like he wanted a hole in the Earth to open up and swallow him just so he didn't have to hear the true depth of my insanity anymore.
I stopped because it looked like he was about to barf, but then I explained to him that every decision leads to like, 15 more decisions. If we were planning one of our backyard summer cookouts I wouldn't be as crazy about it because who cares who is going to refill the beers? Everyone will. But at a wedding, we are supposed to be serving our guests, and we are not going to have time to stop and solve problems in the middle of getting ready or in the middle of the reception when we are supposed to be thanking all the guests, and oh yeah, HAVING FUN.
I don't want Awesome to be one of those grooms who says the bride made all the decisions. I want him to be involved, not because I need his help, which I definitely do, but because it's his day too and I want him to be a part of everything.
But while he does want to be a part of the big decisions, he doesn't care about the little stuff, and he also wants me to not be insane for the next six months.
So for now, I will keep most of my insanity to myself, and let him deal with the big stuff while I worry about the details.
After all, I want him to WANT to marry me when the big day comes.
Emily Campbell is a perpetually single, 20-something girl-around-town who loves Shakespeare, old movies, Natty Boh, and of course, long walks on the beach. A sales manager by day and freelance writer by night, she was recently forced into a life of involuntary celibacy when her last relationship fizzled out over a text message. She's tired of settling for second – or tenth – best, and she's ready to find Mr. Right. Or, Mr. Nearly Right. No one's perfect…which she has learned the hard (but hilarious) way.


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16 Jun 2007I had some prints made of pictures I took sometime last year but never framed them, so I went to Target and got a decent frame for $20 – white matting, black wood frame – matted to 8x10" – just to see how they look. It looks pretty good, although I am realizing how much I like a lot of the stuff I've done since I made these prints, even. Well, basically since I started project365. Even if it hadn't helped me with my skills (which it has), it would boost the number of pictures I like by sheer volume.
So, uh, if anyone wants a framed 8x10" print of a picture, let me know. I can do it for like $40, assuming you can pick it up and I don't have to ship it.
I made these prints via qoop.com, which probably isn't the best, but honestly, they look pretty good to me. Anyone recommend a printlab?


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- This event has passed.
Geeks Who Drink Trivia Night! (Mueller)
February 22, 2017 @ 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Tonight at 7pm, WhichCraft Tap Room is hosting its Geeks Who Drink Trivia Night! Come in for this free event and put your useless knowledge to the test. Prizes and good times are included!


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The Golden Thread
A while ago, St. Clair's first book, The Secret Lives of Color, was very popular, but I had already read Victoria Finlay's Color: A Natural History of the Palette (which is wonderful, and apparently I read it pre-Howling Frog, which surprises me!) and I -- rather snobbily -- eschewed the newer book, thinking it couldn't be as good. I will have to rethink that snap judgement. I can never resist a book about textiles, and though I kind of thought this might be on the light side, I found that I enjoyed it very much and and recommend it to any textile-lover...or for that matter, anybody who has never given a thought to the huge importance of textiles.
This book is not a comprehensive history of the development of early textiles, though. St. Clair hops around a bit in the fields of history and geography. Each chapter focuses on one sub-topic, and gives several stories about that. So there is no giant history of linen (that might take a very large book); there is a chapter on linen's importance in ancient Egypt, and several different stories about that.
After weaving and linen, there are chapters on silk, wool, cotton, lace, and then more modern fabrics such as rayon, textiles for extreme cold, space suits, sports, and, finally, spider silk. Each one contains fascinating stories and details.
One of my favorite stories was about the work of Su Hui, who composed and embroidered an incredibly complex poem, Star Gauge, on a panel of silk. It can be read in any direction and is divided into panels, as shown:
Su Hui and her poem |
And as I mentioned, there is a lot of information here about modern developments in fabrics, too. The chapter on cold-weather gear was particularly fascinating, involving both mountain-climbing and polar exploration. Early cold-weather gear was ridiculously difficult and inadequate, being mostly wool. Alpinists were ...snobbish? ignorant? about the extreme environment, and so we get descriptions like
By 1924 Mallory had grudgingly accepted the need for gaseous aid to climb Everest. Even today many climbers believe climbing without it is aesthetically preferable; previously Mallory had believed that it was unsporting and, worse, un-British.
[on the first man to try out down clothing, coated in balloon fabric] Finch, an Australian, was ridiculed by the snobbish Alpine Club and his contemporaries refused to adopt the style, even when it proved far warmer than their own gear.This book was so much fun! I loved reading it. In fact, since last week was National Library Week, we decided to celebrate by taking 'quarantine shelfies,' and I chose to use The Golden Thread as my book.


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Sakura leaves are beautiful whether they're clinging to trees or fallen on the ground.
This years has produced a gorgeous display of sakura petals for the annual hanami revelers to enjoy. Sadly, the cherry blossoms don't hang around too long, and the beautiful petals are already starting to scatter. Fortunately, they go out with a gorgeous bang — there's even a term for cherry blossoms floating in the air: "Sakura fubuki," 桜吹雪, which could be literally translated as "sakura blizzard."
And we have to admit, the poetic phrase is surprisingly evocative — as well as accurate. Here are a few of the gorgeous photos Twitter users have shared of Japan's beautiful fallen cherry blossoms.
▼ This photo, taken along the Philosopher's Walk in Tokyo, has been super popular.
https://twitter.com/takuyama_3/status/718303142337716224▼ This video of a duck swimming through sakura-coated water is simply adorable!
https://twitter.com/takuyama_3/status/718331672698228736▼ Another great destination for cherry blossoms is Yasukuni Shrine.
https://twitter.com/firstkiss160814/status/718631451130855424▼ This image of koi and sakura is so perfect it could be a painting.
▼ These photos really do look like a blizzard has just rolled through!
https://twitter.com/kinapom/status/718404755534405633▼ This Twitter user got a little artistic with her pictures.
桜が散り散り桜吹雪も桜の絨毯もたのしい。 pic.twitter.com/QB2QitUZO7
— 眠る。人。zzz... (@enomichupu) April 8, 2016
▼ The Dutch angle works surprisingly well for cherry blossom photography!
There are still a few cherry blossoms on the trees, but we doubt they'll last much longer. So get out and enjoy them while you can!
And when you get done admiring those cherry blossoms (or if you're just stuck inside today), be sure to check out Sputniko!'s new video. It features love zombies!
Source: Hamusoku
Featured image: Twitter/@takuyama_3


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The Right Counselor Can Foster Resilience And Growth
As many as one in six children have a diagnosable Mental Health Disorder (nami.org), and finding the right counselor or child therapist to guide these children through the growing pains of childhood and adolescence can dramatically improve their chances of success in life. It's often comforting for parents who are deciding whether to invest time and money into a counselor to be reminded that mental illness is not a "choice" or a "moral failing." In fact, mental illnesses such as anxiety, mood disorders, and ADHD occur at similar rates around the world, in every culture and in all socio-economic groups.
Therapy is about EMPOWERMENT not INADEQUACY
It's important to remember that everyone has moments of anger or sadness from time to time. Moments of extreme emotion aren't in and of themselves evidence of a need for professional support. But if these issues continue for longer than two weeks, seeking the help of a counselor may be warranted. If you are concerned that your child is experiencing a mental health problem, a behavioral issue, or a social struggle that is too big for them to handle on their own, the best time to address your concern is now. The analogy of a young tree jettisoning to the side then being corrected skywards again by a sturdy stake may be an appropriate comparison with counseling. Research shows that early intervention, with effective therapy, not only increases recovery rates for the child but builds resiliency and provides children with the skillset needed to handle future stressors as well.
Choosing A Child Therapist
Vetting Your Options
Finding a therapist may not be as easy as finding a good dentist or tutor. Because of the confidential nature of therapeutic relationships, many people are hesitant to share openly their positive (or negative) experiences in therapy. Luckily, there are a number of other ways for a savvy parent to begin the search for a child therapist.
A good place to start is through trusted friends, a doctor, or your child's school. Typically, professionals who work with children in healthcare and education keep referral lists of specialists in the mental health arena. Another useful resource is the website PsychologyToday, where you can search by city, insurance company coverage, and specialty. If you are comfortable, crowdsourcing on social media by asking for therapy recommendations or searching previous posts (especially in a parenting group) can also prove effective.
Of course, many parents are limited to what their insurance covers. Unfortunately, in my experience, I've found that lists of approved therapists provided by insurance companies are not always updated. Sorting through these lists and contacting the providers for coverage and availability options may take considerable time. It is not uncommon for therapists to be booked one to four weeks out. Try not to allow the vetting process to discourage you from finding a suitable therapist that fits your needs.
Once you've received a number of possible recommendations, it's helpful to review the therapist's websites and bios. Many therapists will have additional information listed such as their background, education, specialties, accepted insurances, and session rates.
Experience Matters
Choose a therapist with experience and expertise in the areas that your child is struggling. For instance, if your child is exhibiting intense ruminations or repetitive behaviors, a mental health expert who works with kids and specializes in Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders would be helpful. Or if your teen is overly anxious, perfectionistic, and hard on themselves, meeting with an expert in high functioning anxiety is important. If you have a child who is struggling with impulse control, organizing/planning, and social inhibition, finding an ADHD specialist will likely prove beneficial. Although there will be some crossover, each of these specialists will have additional training and tools in their proverbial toolboxes specifically designed to help your child handle their struggles.
Involve Your Child In The Process
After you've researched and vetted a couple of referrals for child therapists, show the options to your child, and let them participate in the decision of who would be a good fit for them. This gives your child a semblance of control. You are essentially saying, "You need to talk to someone, but I'll let you decide who." It also bodes better for treatment outcomes. When a child or adult for that matter, is open and engaged in treatment, they will be more invested and benefit more from the experience.
One note: your child may need to meet with a few therapists before you find the winning combination. Hold on to the list of additional options just in case the relationship doesn't click or falls flat. Sometimes this happens (don't worry, we as therapists understand and want the best for you and your family)! One of the most important factors in recovery rates is feeling a strong connection to your counselor or therapist.
Support Your Child By Building Your Reserves
If your child is struggling with maintaining emotional balance, there is a good chance that you are too. Unfortunately, these kinds of tensions can feed off of each other. You may be unintentionally making things worse. Consider getting support to improve your communication skills, develop strategies for de-escalation, cope with teen angst and rebellion, or better connect with your family. You will likely find that in changing your behavior and attitude, you will impact the rest of the family as well.
Life will throw all kinds of challenges at our kids, some of which require outside support. Therapy can help empower our children to develop the tools to build resilience, utilize coping strategies and shift their mindset to lean into opportunities for growth.