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Meryl Streep: Clint Eastwood inspired Devil Wears Prada role
- Bang Showbiz
- 24 June 2016
Oscar-winning actress Meryl Streep has revealed she copied Clint Eastwood's raspy voice for her character Miranda Priestly in 'The Devil Wears Prada'
Meryl Streep's chilling voice in 'The Devil Wears Prada' was inspired by Clint Eastwood.
The 67-year-old star, who played terrifying magazine editor Miranda Priestly in the movie 10 years ago, has revealed she copied the raspy quality of the legendary 'Dirty Harry' actor for the character's powerful speech and her 'Silkwood' director Mike Nichols' ability to deliver a "cutting remark".
She said: "The voice I got from Clint Eastwood. He never, ever, ever raises his voice and everyone has to lean in to listen, and he is automatically the most powerful person in the room. But he is not funny. That I stole from Mike Nichols. The way the cruellest cutting remark, if it is delivered with a tiny self-amused curlicue of irony, is the most effective instruction, the most memorable correction, because everyone laughs, even the target. The walk, I'm afraid, is mine."
Miranda's wardrobe cost $1 million to supply for the movie and her look was inspired by American model and actress Carmen Dell'Orefice - who is now aged 85 and sports a signature white bouffant hairstyle - and German politician Christine Lagarde, who is Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund.
Meryl added to Variety magazine: "I wanted a cross between (Carmen) and the unassailable elegance and authority of Christine Lagarde."
And Meryl was a big hit with the cast and crew as soon as they heard her read the script.
Anne Hathaway - who played her assistant Andy Sachs - revealed as soon as Streep read the part in front of the cast, they were captivated by the character.
She said: "When Meryl opened her mouth and basically whispered, everybody in the room drew a collective gasp. It was so unexpected and brilliant."
Despite the huge success of the film, which inspired the hit TV series 'Ugly Betty', Meryl isn't interested in making a sequel because the original was so good.
She said: "I'd love to make a movie with all the people again that's something totally different. But I think that one might have just hit the right note. It's good to leave it as it is."
Emily Blunt starred as Emily Chalton in the film and says she gained a stepbrother in her co-star Stanley Tucci, who played Nigel, because he met his future wife, her sister Felicity, at Blunt's wedding to John Krasinski.
She said: "Ten years after 'The Devil Wears Prada' Stanley is in my actual family. How frightening is that? He's married to my sister."
It was also revealed that Hathaway was never the first choice to play the role of Andy, and Fox Studios heavily pursued Rachel McAdams, who turned them down.


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Corn sugar
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Corn sugar may refer to:
- Dextrose monohydrate
- The name for high-fructose corn syrup sugar proposed by the Corn Refiners Association, and ultimately rejected by the FDA.
| disambiguation page lists articles associated with the title Corn sugar.
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subset: commoncrawl


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PowerColor PCS+ Radeon HD 7870 (Tahiti LE) 2GB Myst Video Card Review
Final Thoughts
This new Tahiti based HD 7800 series video card is a nice edition to a strong line up from AMD and really helps add something new to the mix in time for the holidays. The biggest issue when it comes to promoting the new product, though, is because it's not something every partner is picking up, the only way you'll really see what's available is via reviews like this.
If you head on over to Newegg and do a search for the HD 7870, and then cut it down to the PowerColor ones, you'll see a total of five. The new Myst Edition card we're looking at today mentioned (Tahiti LE) in the title, but the problem is that means very little for most people.
You combine the LE tag with the fact that the out of the box core clocks are actually lower than the other model and you wonder why you're going to be paying an extra $10 for the Myst Edition which comes in at $239.99 after rebate. Of course after reading the review today you get a better idea of what's going on with this new model, but unless you do a bit of research, you're not going to know.
For an extra $10 you'd really be crazy to not choose the Tahiti LE based HD 7870 over the Pitcairn XT one. The question is going to be how many people will actually realize that? Stepping away from the general talk of the model, though, let's quickly get a bit more specific.
Package wise like most cards these days we're really not dealing with anything exciting. Outside of the installation guide and driver CD you can see the only other included piece in the bundle is a Mini DisplayPort to DisplayPort adapter.
As for the cooling it doesn't look all that fancy and really overall it just looks quite plain. But it does a good job of keeping the temperature of the card at a nice level. More importantly, though, it manages to keep the temperature at a good level, and the noise level is extremely good as well.
Performance overall is strong and out of the box you can see we're coming in a little stronger than a pre-overclocked Pitcairn XT based HD 7870. Of course at times we do see both cards perform extremely close to each other and sometimes the Pitcairn XT based card manages to sneak slightly ahead. Word is overclocking on the new Tahiti LE based HD 7870 is meant to be extremely strong. Keep an eye out to see what's going on with clock speeds when we fire this new model up under MSI Afterburner.
The new PowerColor PCS+ HD 7870 2GB Myst Edition card is a really nice addition to the AMD line up. If you've taken the time to read the review and you're looking at spending around the mid $200 mark, you'd probably know that you'd be crazy to pick up an older Pitcairn XT based product.
PRICING: You can find products similar to this one for sale below.
United States: Find other tech and computer products like this over at Amazon's website.
United Kingdom: Find other tech and computer products like this over at Amazon UK's website.
Canada: Find other tech and computer products like this over at Amazon Canada's website.
- Page 1 [Introduction and Package]
- Page 2 [The Card and Specifications]
- Page 3 [Benchmarks - Test System Setup]
- Page 4 [Benchmarks - 3DMark 11]
- Page 5 [Benchmarks - Unigine Heaven Benchmark]
- Page 6 [Benchmarks - Phantasy Star Online 2]
- Page 7 [Benchmarks - Lost Planet 2]
- Page 8 [Benchmarks - Just Cause 2]
- Page 9 [Benchmarks - F1 2012]
- Page 10 [Benchmarks - Metro 2033]
- Page 11 [Benchmarks - Dirt Showdown]
- Page 12 [Benchmarks - Nexuiz]
- Page 13 [Benchmarks - Sniper Elite V2]
- Page 14 [Benchmarks - Sleeping Dogs]
- Page 15 [Benchmarks - Far Cry 2]
- Page 16 [Benchmarks - High Quality AA and AF]
- Page 17 [Temperature Test]
- Page 18 [Sound Test]
- Page 19 [Power Consumption Test]
- Page 20 [Final Thoughts]
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REDWOOD CITY -- Don't buy trees from Balsam Hill, period. It's pretty simple. I have had the WORST experience with this company and I've absolutely had it. First off, the tree looked nothing like it did in the elaborate photos they had on their Balsam Hill website. Second, after just 1 uses there were literally hundreds of lights out all throughout the tree.
When I called their customer service line this year for support they offered to send me "a set of lights". Thanks, but guess what... I paid over $1500 for a Christmas tree from Balsam Hill in the hopes that this would be the last tree I'd need to buy for myself and my family for at least 5 to 10 years. The company refuses to replace the tree and I cannot send it back because they don't do repairs at this time of year. I would never recommend purchasing from this company. After doing more research I found they have only been around for a few years in business. Hopefully this is their last.
REDWOOD CITY, CALIFORNIA -- Do not buy from Balsam Hill (www.balsamhill.com). We have had no end of problems trying to get their customer service to assist us. They do not care. We could not recommend this company to anyone. Spent almost $2000 on a tree with defective lights after just 1 month. 3 months later still fighting with them. They will not issue an RMA. They do not return calls. At this time we have filed a chargeback with our credit card issuer. There are plenty of others that have complaints with Balsam Hill and many negative reviews. Wish we had done more research prior to purchase from this shady outfit.
I was sold on the realistic look of the Balsam Hill trees and was told how incredibly easy the setup was. I bought a 7.5 ft tree with both clear and colored lights for about $800. The first year my son and I got the tree up--not without problems but we managed. The second year I was on the phone with a tech support person for over 2 hours (no kidding) as he walked me through getting all the lighting connections right. Their schematic is a joke and there are basically no other instructions.
The inside area of the tree is a mass of cords, all the same color (so no distinction between the cords for the clear vs. the colored lights) and they so very helpfully put little yellow or red stickers on the plugs so as to distinguish them. Only one problem--the little stickers have a tendency to fall off. I tried to take notes from what the tech support person was telling me to do but of course, since you only put up a tree once a year. When I got out the instructions this year, I once again had difficulty figuring it all out. Gave up in complete frustration and bought a fresh tree.


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So while preparing for my first college football game of the season, I read that Temple Head Coach Matt Rhule has his players run Gassers at the end of a practice. I also learned that Coach Rhule runs them too! So I asked Rich Burg, Temple's Sports and Information director, if his head Strength and Conditioning coach, Jeremy Scott (seen in the video with the stopwatch), would put me through a short workout when I arrived in Philly on Thursday. Rich emailed me and said, "Coach Rhule's going to do them with you!" Bonus!!!
Full disclosure, I arrived at practice 15 minutes before the Gassers, straight off the airplane. No warm-up at all! The first few feet of Gasser number one I thought, "Oh no, I'm going to pull a muscle." Luckily, I didn't!
By the way, I have a new respect for football players who have to run Gassers in full pads, post practice. We only did five total, and I was huffing and puffing. Thanks Coach Rhule for being a good sport and taking the time to get a little workout in!
Now excuse me while I go ice my hamstrings…I have some stadium stairs to run tomorrow! And yes, I know I run like a girl!


text: Holidays to Vietnam Licensed and Bonded Call us today 028 9099 7856 Destinations Holiday Types Brand New Special Offers Blog Worldwide Contact Us Departing from? Departing from Departing from Select a range of airports that suit your travel requirements Airports Travelling to? Travelling to Travelling to? We offer outstanding holidays to over 60 countries worldwide Top countries View all countries Top destinations View all destinations When? When When Plan or book your holiday now or next year Month Year How long for? How long for Duration Choose the duration of your holiday Star rating Pricing range Clear Search Departing from?Dublin + 3 Travelling to?Italy + 1 When?March 2015 How long for?7 nights Clear Search Home (Belfast Telegraph) 1 › Destinations 2 › Asia 3 › Vietnam 4 Holidays to Vietnam We've found - Holidays Holiday Departure Sort by Sort results by Price Ascending Price Descending Date Ascending Date Descending Filter your results By price Pricing slider to go here By holiday type Solo friendly 34 Gardening 23 Food & Wine 76 Groups 11 For couples 03 Family & Kids 45 Sports & Recreation 99 Available Departure Points Refine your search By Departure Point By Top Countries A-Z By Top Destination A-Z By Holiday Type By Month By Year By Holiday Duration By Star Rating By Price Currencies are converted at market rates as a guide only By Currency €£ Load more results Peace of mind with Belfast Telegraph & Travel Department Why us The ease of booking a complete itinerary. We offer you affordable luxury. We are experienced and dedicated to your experience. Customers often return to travel with us again. Our guides Friendly and welcoming everywhere you go. Local experts, enthusiastic about their area. Take pride in making your holiday engaging. Innovative itineraries with amazing excursions. Our promise To remember your holiday is a very precious time of the year. To go the extra mile for you, our customers. To describe our holidays in an honest manner. To use your feedback to continually improve our service. Fully protected 24/7 emergency contact number while abroad. We are a privately owned company and have been in business for over 20 years. Travel Department holidays are fully licenced by the Civil Aviation Authority and are ATOL Protected. Transferring you to our sister brand TDactive Holidays to find out more Fully Licensed & Bonded Great Value Activity Holidays Secure Booking Stay on Travel Department


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The formative years in a child's life plays a pivotal role. A child's mind is very impressionable. So during the span of school life whatever he gets from the portals of learning remains ingrained in his mind for the entire lifetime. Therefore atAl-Ameen we believe that children are like clay and it is our duty to mould them in the right manner. It is our belief that our children will be the future helmsmen of our country because here it is a blend of utilitarian and aesthetic education that is provided to them. The teachers at Al-Ameen firmly believe in being facilitators and provide exciting learning opportunities to their young learner's through real classroom situations. This would instill an enquiring mind - set in the child enabling him to make learning an enjoyable experience. The teachers at Al-Ameen employ innovative techniques of teaching helping the child to spread their wings of creative imaginations. We also believe in fostering the strength of character through moral religious and spiritual education. Here concentrated efforts are put in to help the child to touch the zenith of their potentials and finally prepare them to excel in all walks of life.
COMFY- Communal Amity through Familial Harmony. Every student of Al-Ameen visits the families of his/her friends with their parents during
Our nation is a rich land which has embraced all religions and cults with magnanimity. The people of this land are inherently spiritual by nature..
An inter-school quiz and literacy competition will be held at the Al-Ameen Public School on behalf of the freedom quest


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Commited to protecting your
rights & interests
The firm is best known for its expertise in Civil, Corporate and Commercial practice. The firm also has an active real estate and litigation practice.
1. What is Vajrala Legal Associates ?
Vajrala Legal Associates is a modern interpretation of the law firm that's purpose-built for the efficient execution of sophisticated legal work.
2. How do you protect confidential information ?
Varjala Associates goes to great lengths to ensure confidentiality of its customers' information. All information is stored on a secure server, which encrypts transmission of data between users' browsers and the server. In addition, Varjala Associates and its employees are under the same obligation to preserve the confidences and secrets of your clients as your employees, associates and outside counsel. We keep all information disclosed by our customers in connection with a project strictly confidential.
3. How shall I get appointment from you?
You can drop email to email@example.com or reach us through phone.
4. What is the convenient time to reach us over the phone ?
6 pm to 9 pm
5. What type of cases does the Vajrala Law Firm Handle ?
Kindly refer to the area of practice section of the website to get the details of area.
6. How much will it cost to get a consult ?
If you are seeking a consultation for any other matter, give us a call and we will discuss any consultation fee with you when scheduling your appointment.
7. Do Vajrala Associates work together ?
Our Associates occasionally work in teams and frequently alongside each other while serving the same client


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ST. LOUIS COUNTY (KMOV.com) – Traffic is tied up on eastbound Interstate 70 after a semi-truck left the roadway and jackknifed Friday morning.
According to reports, the accident happened just before 8 a.m. near the Highway 170 intersection in north St. Louis County.
Emergency crews are on the scene working to clear the wreckage and traffic is reduced to a single lane.
Authorities have not yet determined what caused the truck's driver to lose control. Police did not say if the driver was injured or if any other vehicles were involved.


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The Eastern Pennsylvania Region of the American Red Cross is part of the largest and most diverse service organization in the United States. We serve more than 6 million people in Berks, Bucks, Carbon, Chester, Delaware, Lackawanna, Lehigh, Monroe, Luzerne, Montgomery, Northampton, Philadelphia, Pike, Schuylkill, Susquehanna, Wayne and Wyoming Counties.
Over 1,200 disasters, including home fires, floods & other emergencies, were responded to by our teams.
Provided financial assistance to more than 5,490 individuals after they had experienced a disaster.
Trained 7,838 students in grades 3-5 in The Pillowcase Project.
Chapter Locations
List of blood locations


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Wed page
Bart & Greg
We had our first date in 1993, but we didn't become a couple until January 1994. We dated for six months then we moved in together. Our first house was a town home in West Palm Beach.
We found we both had a love for Star Trek and SciFi in general, and Disney. Our family started out with Bart's dog, then in 1995 we got our first dog together a little cute Beagle girl. After our first dog past we adopted another beagle, this time a boy.
In 1999 we decided to buy a house together in Boynton Beach. We have slowly made changes to our house and it has become the holiday location for the family.
Our favorite vacations are Atlantis Events Cruises and in January 2008 Greg arranged for us to have a commitment ceremony on the Atlantis Liberty of The Seas cruise which was held on the helicopter pad which was attended by close friends we made through Atlantis.
Now after 17 years together we want our family and friends to join us in New York for our wedding in May, 2012
Fast FactsFirst met: October 1993
First date: October 1993 @ Cinema Drafthouse
Got engaged: June 24, 2011
Ceremony date: 05/19/2012
Ceremony location: Melville Marriott Hotel, Melville, New York
In Case You Were WonderingOur wedding colors: Black and White
We will be wearing: Tuxes
Who proposed to who: Greg proposed to Bart
Our last name will be: We will keep our last names


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The NationaI Assembly turned over to the govemment a proposal for amending the 2010 law regarding the establishment of shareholding Kuwaiti companies specializingin in the construction of power plants and water desalination plants, it was learned here on Tuesday.
The proposal was unanimously approved in its second reading by the lawmakers. The proposal for the amendment would give the ministry of electncity and water a free hand in supporting the state's technical apparatuses in the study and planning for more power plants and water desalination plants, said the minister of eletricity and water Ahmad Al-Jassar, during the Assembly's regular session today.
The amendment states that the ministry of electricity and water can construct however many power and water plants it needs, provided the prior approval of the government.
Following the unanimous vote on the proposal for the amendment, the lawmakers furthermore endorsed two recommendations related to protecting the environment at the site of the construction of any new power plants and water desalination plants. The National Assembly is scheduled to meet tomorrow.
"It is hard to fail, but it is worse never to have tried to succeed."
"Envy comes from wanting something that isn't yours. But grief comes from losing something you've already had."


text: Finish Carpentry - Interior Trim & Moldings in Indianapolis, Indiana, United States Home Businesses Classifieds People United States> Indiana > Indianapolis > Classifieds in Indianapolis > Services in Indianapolis > Repair in Indianapolis > Finish Carpentry - Interior trim & moldings Filter your results Category Babysitter & Nanny Computer Event Services Health & Beauty & Fitness Horoscopes & Tarot Household & Domestic Help Moving & Storage Other Services Repair Writing & Editing & ... Location IndianapolisX Ads With Photos Type All Offering Wanted Finish Carpentry - Interior trim & moldings Photos Location: Indianapolis, Indiana, United States Date: June 29 2011 Description Over 15 yrs. exp. as a finish/trim carpenter. I specialize in custom built bars and entertainment centers. Other specialties include doors, windows, baseboards, chair rail, crown molding, and stair railings. They also include the installation of cabinets and the fabrication/installation of countertops. I have experience in all phases of remodeling. Please check out my website at www.custominteriortrim.net Serving Indianapolis and surrounding areas. Free Estimates Bailey Concrete- Standard & Decorative Concrete Contractor - Licensed, Bonded, Insured July 31, 2011 Bailey Concrete is a third generation concrete contractor. Specializing in new and replacement work from broom and swirl finishes to stamped, stained, textured, overlays, resurfacing, and exposed aggregate. All exterior and interior work, including driveways, walkways, patios, steps, commercial slabs, floors and more. For quality, ... Repair in Indianapolis 317 Local Locksmith July 27, 2011 Only Indianapolis Locksmith provides the widest range of locksmith services including residential, commercial and automotive locksmith needs. We even give emergency services for those who need the quickest response! Our guaranteed 15 minute emergency response period will have you back on the move in no time. Indianapolis Locksmith's products and ... Repair in Indianapolis Handyman Services July 15, 2011 Allsgood Home Remodeling & Repair is a small, family owned, business with Christian values, morals & ethics. We have done small jobs and have done room additions. We specialize in Bathroom & Kitchen remodeling. Other services we provide: - Fence installation and/or repair - Plumbing - Electrical (install fans/lights, troubleshoot ... Repair in Indianapolis OnSite Mower Service July 13, 2011 OnSite Mower Service provides convenient at home maintenance and repair of outdoor power equipment in the northern Indianapolis Metro area. You can expect a trained, timely, and professional technician to arrive at your home for routine tune up or repair. Brands of mowers serviced include but are not limited to; John Deere, Craftsman, Honda, Toro, ... 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Repair in Indianapolis Roofing•Home Improvements and Moore June 14, 2011 "Low Price for High Quality Services" Roofing•Painting•Drywall•Hauling and Moore Repair in Indianapolis Farris Customs June 09, 2011 At Farris Customs, we offer factory paint work, custom paint work, airbrush and detail work, for motorcycles, cars, trucks and all terrain vehicles. Farris Customs also offers complete engine and transmission repair and replacements, also computer diagnostics and air conditioning work. Repair in Indianapolis ELECTRICAL YOU CAN AFFORD June 08, 2011 tired of high prices stopping you from what you want to do.if you have any electrical concerns or need any wiring updates or add ons please call mike @ 317-440-2495 i have 20 yrs experience in the electrical field . i used to work for a big company and now that i am now on my own i can give customers a better deal . i have no after hour rates and am available on ... 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We specialize in light commercial and residential although, all our electricians are trained and certified in all commercial and industrial environments. Thank you for your time, we hope to hear from you ... Repair in Indianapolis Show More Show Less Join CityBase Find Jobs, Cars, Real Estate & Items For Sale Socialize With Professionals, Friends & Family Supercharge Your Business With Business Directroy Type Your City Username Email Password Security Check By signing up you agree Terms & Conditions skip Current Location  United States Indiana Indianapolis Free Classifieds in United States Services in United States Services in Indiana Services in Indianapolis Repair in United States Repair in Indiana Repair in Indianapolis Finish Carpentry - Interior trim & moldings About Us About Citybase Terms of use Contact Us Share on Facebook Twitter Google United States Classifieds Copyright © 2011-2013 CityBase.com Looks like you are not yet CityBase member Signup to start buying/selling CityBase United States Classifieds People Businesses in Select Choose Category ClassesCommunityFor SaleJobsReal EstateServicesVehicle Choose Category AutomotiveBusiness to BusinessComputers & Electronics Education Entertainment & Arts Food & Dining Government & Community Health & Beauty Home & Garden Legal & Financial Services Professional Services Real Estate Retail Shopping Travel & Lodging Choose Country Argentina Australia Austria Bahamas Bangladesh Belarus Belgium Belize Brazil Chile China Colombia Costa Rica Czech Republic Dominican Republic Ecuador Estonia Finland France Germany Greece Guatemala Hong Kong Hungary Iceland India Indonesia Italy Japan Latvia Lithuania Luxembourg Malaysia Mexico Morocco Netherlands New Zealand Pakistan Panama Paraguay Peru Philippines Poland Romania Russian Federation Singapore Slovakia Slovenia South Africa South Korea Spain Sri Lanka Switzerland Taiwan Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom United States Uruguay Venezuela Vietnam Created in 8.8825209141 seconds


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What the ???
That's how I reacted when I watched the last Saturday episode of Legend of Arching Hero (She Diao Ying Xiong Zhuan).
Quite amusing to watch how the protagonist, Guo Jing (GJ) firmly refused to annul his engagement with the Mongolian princess even though the one whom he loved was Huang Rong (HR).
He publicly stated it in front of the two ladies, HR's infuriated father, GJ's Mongolian archery teacher, GJ's Mongolian sworn brother, and GJ's six teachers who would definitely wish to be somewhere else fighting some scumbags than to have to witness such a pathetic drama.
Huang Yao Shi--btw, he's the father of HR--being angry was understandable. Afterall, how could GJ propose her daughter despite he'd already been betrothed to the princess?!
GJ was also superbly adamant with his 'logic':
1. He was taught that it was wrong to break a promise and he had promised to marry the princess.
and (or but?)
2. He only had HR in his heart.
What the ???
I really wondered why the two ladies did not just join hands to kill that indecisive guy. Oh wait, they couldn't. It's not in the script.


text:
If you took the Ian Birk-John Williams shooting and moved it to an island off the coast of Australia, you'd get something akin to the situation explored in Tony Krawitz's superb documentary about the mysterious death of an Aboriginal drunk taken into custody by a white cop on Palm Island. Only here the cop isn't a jacked-up novice to the badge, but rather a seasoned "gentle giant" who's well-respected by Aboriginal leaders. While the filmmaker's sympathies clearly lie with the natives, he shrewdly constructs a nuanced narrative that lets viewers draw their own conclusions, and the score and cinematography give The Tall Man an artistic depth not often found in documentaries. (Also: SIFF Cinema Uptown, 3:30 p.m. Weds., May 30.) MIKE SEELY
Mon., May 28, 6:30 p.m., 2012


text:
Four things to look at this week.
1) "Think Again: Inequality and America's Antiquated Politics"
2) From Dissent, "Something about Christopher"
3) From The Nation, "The Problem With Peretz" (And how happy must this make Marty? "A record number of Muslim workers [were] complaining of employment discrimination, from co-workers calling them "terrorist" or "Osama" to employers barring them from wearing head scarves or taking prayer breaks.")
4) I guest edited the Forward's op page this week, and solicited this fine (but badly titled) piece by Cabalist Matt Duss, "Some Zionist Groups Stoke Fear Of Islam for Political Profit," and Shai Held, "Daring To Dream With God,"
Now here's Charles:
Hey Doc:
"Got my work clothes on for love and sweat and dirt/all this holy dust upon my face and shirt."
Weekly WWOZ Pick To Click: "Growlin' Dog" (Harlem Hamfats)—Once again I forgot to dip into my campaign funds, pay for a bunch of bowling, and then use what was left to buy a billboard in Delaware telling people how much I love New Orleans.
Part The Only—My usual NPR gig brought me to Oklahoma City this week. I spent the morning at the extraordinary memorial that has been built on the site of where the Alfred Murrah Building once stood. It is something I can recommend to every citizen of this country. Come here. Stand by the reflecting pool. Look at the stark, lovely chairs, each of them representing one of the 168 people that Timothy McVeigh murdered out of his twisted, moronic interpretation of what this country is all about. Think about what Americans can do to each other.
(And, not for nothing, but the Oklahoma City Memorial is so moving that it convinced me that the best thing that could be built at Ground Zero in New York is nothing. Screw your real estate values. That's a gravesite. Make a park.)


text: Heyo. Hope you're great. I'm great. And I'm here to tell you that every Wednesday, I'm going to come out with the best thing I've listened to in the last 7 days. There's some good shtuff out there and I'll do my best to narrow it down to one episode, from one podcast. Also I… Continue reading Podcast of The Week: Girlboss


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Postal Rate Commission is due to make its long awaited recommendation on a postal rate increase Monday. The U.S. Postal Service has requested hikes including a 1 cent increase in the 32 cent first-class stamp, but publishers, direct marketers and major mailers are especially watching the recommendations for other mail classes.
Pharmacia & Upjohn to Klemtner, New York, for its forthcoming estimated $20 million direct-to-consumer campaign behind prescription bladder control drug, Detrol.
Kellogg Co. launched what it's calling the most aggressive marketing campaign in its history for new Smart Start cereal. The ad theme, from J. Walter Thompson USA, New York, is ``Seize the day.''
Copyright May 1998, Crain Communications Inc.


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If you already have data in a spreadsheet or database, why retype it or paste it into Dreamweaver? You can import data exported from spreadsheet or database applications into Dreamweaver with the Import Tabular Data command. Most spreadsheets and database applications can export data into a text file so Dreamweaver can import it.
You need to know what character is used in the data file as a delimiter before you can successfully import data into Dreamweaver. A delimiter is the character used between the individual data fields. Commonly used delimiters are tab, space, comma, semicolon, and colon. When you are exporting your data file, you will need to pick a delimiter that does not appear in the data.


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The charity
Solace Women's Aid are a London based charity that supports women and children affected by domestic and sexual violence, helping more than 10,000 survivors of violence each year.
The event
Rock Against Violence is driven by the Power of Solace, a volunteer organization that raises funds to benefit Solace Women's Aid via various events and activities throughout the year. Established in 2011, Rock Against Violence has grown into Solace's annual flagship music event, earning a staggering £26,000 in 2016.
40 ways to raise 40k
Rock Against Violence is presented by Power of Solace, a group of volunteers who believe in our Power to Change… and you can too! This year there are 40 WAYS for you to get involved and help make a difference.


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This Constitution was first published in Grand Rapids, Michigan, in 1980. That constitution was amended in 1984. This present edition is a further revision of that Constitution and was adopted by the church in 1993 The text herein is not under copyright, since we are indebted to other churches, both past and present, for many of the biblical insights embodied in this document. Particular gratitude is expressed to Trinity Baptist Church of Montville, New Jersey, for sharing with us the fruit of their studies on church order. Orders for copies of this document may be sent to the following address: Reformed Baptist Church of Grand Rapids 3181 Bradford NE Grand Rapids, MI 49505
We, the members of the Reformed Baptist Church of Grand Rapids, do ordain and establish the following Articles, to which we voluntarily and solemnly submit ourselves.
The name of this church shall be the Reformed Baptist Church of Grand Rapids.
The purpose of this church is to glorify the God of the Scriptures by maintaining and promoting His worship both individually and corporately, by evangelizing sinners, and by edifying His saints. Therefore, we are committed to the proclamation of God's perfect Law and of the glorious Gospel of His grace through all the world, to the defense of that "faith which was once delivered unto the saints" (Jude 3), and to the pure and faithful celebration of the ordinances of the New Covenant.
A. Introductory Statement
God has graciously entered into a covenant relationship with His believing people (Jer. 31:31-34; 32:40; Heb. 8:7-13; 10:16, 17; 13:20,21). Jesus Christ is the Mediator of the New Covenant (Heb. 8:6). His blood is the blood of the New Covenant, which infallibly secures all the benefits of the covenant for all of God's people (Matt. 26:26-28; Heb. 13:20,21). God has in this New Covenant made us members one of another (Rom. 12:4,5; 1 Cor. 12:12-27; Eph.4:25). Therefore, we have covenant responsibilities to each other, as well as to God. God has promised in this covenant to write His laws in our hearts and to cause us to walk in His ways (that is, to enable us to keep our covenant responsibilities). The motivation and ability to obey God's laws spring from the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who, by His death, satisfied the holy wrath of God that was against us due to our sins. It is by the enablement of the Holy Spirit that we obey, in loving gratitude for Christ's righteousness, which has been imputed to us, and not to establish our own righteousness before God. We obey with the confidence that the end of Christ's death will be realized in us (that is, "that the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us" [Rom. 8:1-4] and that we should be a people "zealous of good works" [Titus 2:14]). The following paragraphs are a summary of what we believe are our covenant responsibilities toward God and toward one another. This summary forms the basis for our giving and receiving instruction for ourselves and for our families.
B. Summary of Our Covenant Responsibilities (The Laws Written in Our Hearts)
We regard the London Baptist Confession of Faith of 1689 (excepting the assertions regarding the salvation of the mentally incompetent [10:3] and the identity of the antichrist [26:4]) and the Canons of Dortrecht (excluding Article 17 of the first head of doctrine) as excellent, though not inspired, expressions of the teaching of the Word of God. Because we acknowledge the Word of God written to be the supreme authority in all matters of faith, morals, and order, we adopt these two historic documents as our doctrinal standards. We find them to be an assistance in controversy, a confirmation in faith, and a means of edification in righteousness.
A. Warrant for Membership
The New Testament demands of all Christians, formal, open, solemn, voluntary and enduring commitment to Jesus Christ, to His truth and to His people. A true Christian's commitment to the Lord Jesus Christ must include, and is inseparable from his commitment to Christ's truth and to Christ's people. Such a commitment to Christ, His truth and His people ordinarily requires a formal, open, solemn, voluntary and enduring commitment of church membership in a local church for the following biblical reasons:
a. be counted (Acts 2:41-42; 4:4)
b. Be added to (Acts 2:47; 5:14)
c. be called upon to select leaders and representatives from among itself (Acts 6:1-6; 2 Cor. 8:19, 23; Acts 15:22)
d. be officially gathered together (Acts 14:27; 15:22)
e. carry out church discipline by vote (Matt. 18:17; 1 Cor. 5:4, 13; 2 Cor. 2:6)
f. observe the Lord's table as a wholly present corporate assembly (1 Cor. 11:17-20, 33-34)
There is therefore clear biblical warrant for the existence and careful maintenance of local church membership involving formal, open, solemn, voluntary and enduring commitment. This biblical warrant compels us to use great care in maintaining a biblically- ordered church membership.
B. Requisites for Membership
1. To be eligible for membership, a man or woman (Acts 5:14; 8:3,12) must demonstrate repentance toward God and the fruits thereof (Acts 26:20), as well as that faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ (Acts 20:21) which produces godly works (Eph. 2:8-10; James 2:18, 22). He must be baptized as a believer and profess substantial agreement with the purpose (as stated in Article II), Covenant (as stated in Article III), Confessions (as stated in Article IV), and government of this church. Furthermore, he must not be under the biblically warranted (Matt. 18:17,18; 1 Cor. 5:11-13; 2 Thess. 3:6,14,15; 3 John 9,10; 2 Cor. 2:6-8) corrective discipline of a genuine church.
2. Church members must be in submission to the ordained rule of the church to which they belong (Heb. 13:17). He who cannot intelligently and freely submit to a church's government should not belong to that church.
3. Anyone who is in substantial disagreement with the constitution or confessions of the church could not be consistently submissive to the church's teaching ministry. Therefore, to admit such a person to membership in this church would be unwise (Eph. 4:3) and unscriptural.
4. Mastery of church confessions is not required of any new disciple before he is admitted to church membership. Such a requirement would violate the order of Matt. 28:19,20, which instructs us to disciple, to baptize, and then to teach the baptized disciple to observe all things whatsoever Christ has commanded. It is necessary, however, that any disciple applying for membership manifest a willingness to be taught and substantial agreement with what he already knows concerning the church's doctrine and government.
5. If one who is already a member of the church at any time concludes that he no longer satisfies the requirements for membership, he is under obligation to inform the elders of that fact.
C. Types of Membership
1. Regular Members
All who are received into the membership of the church according to the procedures set forth in Section D of this Article and who do not come under the corrective discipline of the church as set forth in Article VI, shall be considered regular members in good standing and entitled to all the rights and privileges of membership in the church (Acts 2:37-47).
2. Associate Members
Members of other churches who come to live in our area for a limited period of time (e.g., students, military personnel, persons on special work assignments) may be received into or removed from the membership of the church on the same basis and in the same manner as persons who have permanent residence in our geographical area. Such a person need not be released from the membership of his "home church" but will be regarded as an associate member while in our midst, enjoying all the privileges, performing all the duties, and submitting to all the liabilities of regular membership. When such a person terminates his period of temporary residence, he will be released to the fellowship of his "home church" and no longer be regarded as a member of this church (compare: Acts 18:27; Rom. 16:1,2; 2 Cor. 3:1f; Col. 4:10; 3 John 5-10). If such a person decides to live in our area permanently and to end his membership in his former "home church", he may request that he be regarded as a regular member of this church. Such regular membership will begin once his membership in his former "home church" has ended. A letter will be sent to the "home church" informing it of the new status of all who begin or end associate membership in this church.
D. Reception into Membership
1. Any person desiring to become a member of the church must submit a written testimony to the elders explaining his understanding and experience of the Gospel of Christ. Exceptions to this requirement shall be determined by the elders in cases involving extraordinary circumstances. The written testimony is intended to promote a proper evaluation of the potential member and to encourage knowledgeable fellowship with him. The elders may request further clarification and/or expansion of this written testimony before proceeding with the application process.
2. If the applicant has been a member of another church, the elders will investigate his standing in that church before he is accepted as a member in this church. Where it is possible and appropriate, a letter of transfer will be requested. Reception by transfer does not negate any of the requirements for becoming a member in this assembly.
3. Upon the reception of an acceptable written testimony, the elders may at their discretion ask for a preliminary meeting with the applicant; otherwise, the name of the applicant shall be announced for at least three consecutive Lord's Days at stated meetings of the church. This time period is for the purpose of enabling the members to read his testimony and to raise any questions or objections concerning the applicant's qualifications. Members are expected to consider this a personal duty of the most serious character. They are expected to voice privately to the elders all questions or objections that have not yet been resolved, after personal contact has been made with the applicant (Matt. 18:15ff; Lev. 19:16, 17). During the application process, the applicant will be interviewed. During the interview the elder(s) will seek to clarify any questions the applicant may have concerning the church or church membership. They shall also determine whether or not that person meets the qualifications as stated in Article V, Section B, of the Constitution and, if necessary, resolve any questions or objections raised by the church. The elders may postpone the reception of the person into membership until any objections can be resolved. If the elders are satisfied that the applicant meets the qualifications, the person will be received at a stated meeting of the church (Matt. 3:6-12; Acts 9:26, 27; 1 John 4:1; Rev. 2:2).
E. Termination of Membership
1. Types of Termination
a. By Physical Death
When a member of the church is removed from our midst by death, his name shall be transferred to the file of former members.
b. By Transfer
(1) Because the New Testament norm for Christians is that they be members of true local churches of Christ, and because the spiritual health of believers is endangered when they are not thus committed to a church, any Christian who leaves the membership of this church should seek to do so by means of transfer to another true church of Christ. Therefore, if a church member in good standing whose conduct does not warrant corrective discipline desires to leave the membership of this church, he is strongly urged to leave in an orderly way by privately indicating that desire to the elders along with his reasons for leaving, and by submitting a request to the elders for a transfer of membership to another true church of Christ.
(2) When such a departing member has not yet chosen a suitable church to which he may transfer, the elders may provide, if he wishes, for a transitional period which will allow the departing member to decide where he wishes to be transferred. Such a transitional status will be allowed to continue as long as the departing member maintains regular contact with the elders, does not unnecessarily prolong the transitional process, and does not engage in conduct requiring the exercise of church discipline.
(3) When it is so requested, the elders may transfer a departing member of good standing to the fellowship of another church. A letter of transfer will be sent to the appropriate officer(s) of the church to which the member wishes to transfer. No such letter may be given to a member who is at the time under the corrective discipline of this church. The elders may refuse to grant a letter of transfer to any church which is in their judgment disloyal to "the faith which was once for all delivered unto the saints" (Jude 3) or which does not exercise godly care over its members.
c. By Dismission
(1) Occasionally, a person's membership may need to be terminated under circumstances which make both transfer and corrective discipline inappropriate. In such circumstances a member may be dismissed
(2) While there is no explicit precedent for dismission in the New Testament, it is required by biblical principles, including the voluntariness of local church membership (Acts 5:13; 9:26; 1 John 2:19) and the demands of biblically defined love and justice (Lam.3:31-33; 1 Cor. 13:4a, 5a, 7a; Prov. 17:15; 18:5); and by the exigencies of a church not yet wholly redeemed and facing the results of nearly 2000 years of church history.
(3) Dismission may be initiated either by the written request of a member to the elders, or by the elders themselves when a member ceases to maintain vital contact with this church. In either case, the final decision regarding the action of dismission will lie with the elders. Church membership is a very serious matter. Members, therefore, shall be dismissed only after due inquiry and admonition by the elders, whenever such contact is possible. Before any individual is dismissed, the church shall be informed of the intention of the elders to dismiss the individual. This information must include the grounds for the proposed dismission. A suitable period of time following the announcement shall be given for the church to privately raise concerns with the elders. After due consideration of such concerns, the elders may proceed with dismission. When possible, they shall send a letter to the dismissed individual informing him of his dismission. The elders shall subsequently communicate to the church that the person has been dismissed. If one who has been dismissed applies again for membership, the normal procedures shall be followed as set forth in Section D of this Article.
(4) Dismission may be warranted for any of the following reasons:
(a) A member in good standing concludes that he is not truly saved.
(b) A member in good standing wishes to terminate his membership for reasons that do not impugn his Christian profession.
(c) A member ceases to maintain vital contact with this church due to relocation or other unique circumstances.
d. By Excommunication
According to the teaching of Holy Scripture, a church must cut off from its fellowship and visible membership any person who teaches or insists on holding to false and heretical doctrine, or who blatantly or persistently conducts himself in a manner inconsistent with his Christian profession, or who persists in disturbing the unity or peace of the church (Matt. 18:15ff; 1 Cor. 5:1f; Rom 16:17; Titus 3:10, 11). The procedure to be followed in such excommunication is set forth in Article VI, Section B, of this Constitution.
2. Implications of Termination
a. The Reformed Baptist Church of Grand Rapids does not exist in isolation from, but is part of the universal church of Christ, composed of all true churches. Accordingly, open and forthright communication among the churches is vital for the purity, peace, edification and unity of the church universal. Therefore the elders may, at their discretion, disclose to the members of this church and to other churches the circumstances under which a person's membership was terminated (Acts 15:24; 1 Tim. 1:20; 2 Tim. 2:17; 4:10; 1 John 2:18, 19).
b. In addition, the Reformed Baptist Church of Grand Rapids does not exist in isolation from society at large. Accordingly, this church has a moral obligation to society both to act with integrity and to maintain its testimony (2 Cor. 8:20,21). Therefore, the elders may, at their discretion, disclose to other persons outside the ecclesiastical circles mentioned above the circumstances under which a person's membership was terminated (Lev. 5:1; Prov. 29:24; 1 Pet. 4:15).
c. Termination of membership does not give license to former members to sow discord, spread false teachings or reports, or engage in any other behavior which threatens the peace and unity of this church or the church universal. Accordingly, when it is established that a former member is behaving divisively, the elders may issue whatever warnings they deem appropriate to maintain and preserve the peace and harmony of this church and the church universal (Acts 15:24; Rom. 16:17- 20; 1 Tim. 1:20; 2 Tim. 2:17; 4:10; 1 John 2:18, 19).
F. Privileges of Membership
In God's order, commitment normally constitutes the pathway to the possession of privileges. Therefore, membership in this church includes the following privileges:
1. Participation in the Lord's Supper (Acts 2:41-42; 1 Cor. 11:18-26, 33);
2. Attendance at, appropriate participation in, and voting during church business meetings (Acts 6:1-6 (cp. Acts 2:41; 4:4; 5:13-14); 1 Cor. 5:4-7; 13 (cp. 1 Cor. 1:2));
3. Laboring to extend God's Kingdom in ministries of the church (as one's gifts, graces and calling make appropriate) (1 Cor. 12:4-27 (cp. 1 Cor. 1:2); Eph. 4:7; 11-12; 16; 1 Pet. 4:10-11);
4. Reception of the committed oversight and care of the pastors of the church (Acts 20:28; 1 Pet. 5:2-3);
5. Reception of the committed care and discipline (as needed) of the membership of the church (Acts 6:1-2 (cp. Acts 2:41; 5:13-14; 9:26); 1 Cor. 5:4-5 (cp. 1 Cor. 1:2); Gal. 6:10).
G. Requirements of Membership
1. All the members of this church are required to attend all the stated meetings of the church unless providentially hindered by illness, unusual working conditions that do not violate the Lord's Day, and other such circumstances (Heb. 10:24, 25). The stated meetings of the church are as follows:
a. All services on the Lord's Day (Bible School, morning and evening worship, the Lord's Supper, and baptisms);
b. Midweek prayer service;
c. Church business meetings; and
d. Any special meetings that the elders shall occasionally deem necessary. When any member is absent from the above stated meetings, he should inform an elder directly or indirectly of the reason.
2. All the members of the church are required to make use of the various other means of grace that are available to them, such as daily private prayer and systematic reading of the Bible, daily family worship, and a proper reverence for and observance of the Lord's Day.
3. Because it is clearly taught in the Scriptures that Christians should financially support the work of the Lord by systematic and proportionate giving made through the local church (Mal. 3:8-10; 1 Cor. 16:1, 2; 2 Cor. 8, 9), all the members of this church are expected to conform to this rule of Scripture. The tithe (ten percent of one's gross personal income) is not imposed on the people of God as a tax but is strongly urged upon each member as an expression of worship and the biblical norm for basic giving. Added to this should be gifts and offerings according to one's ability and the willingness of his heart (2 Cor. 8:1-5; Exod. 36:2-7).
4. All the members of this church are required to obey the teachings of Scripture in respect to the life and government of the family. The husband is the God-appointed head of the family and must rule his household with gentleness, love, wisdom, and firmness (Eph. 5:25ff; 1 Tim. 3:4, 5; 1 Pet. 3:7). The wife must be in Scriptural subjection to her husband in all things (Eph. 5:22-24; 1 Pet. 3:1-6). The husband and wife must bring up their children in the nurture and admonition of the Lord (Eph. 6:1-4). This includes setting a godly example before them, consistently instructing them from the Scriptures (Deut. 6:4-9), and administering corporal chastening to them when needed (Prov. 13:24; 22:15; 29:15; Heb. 12:7).
5. It is the duty of every Christian, as an individual and as a member of a local church, to labor by prayer, word, and deed for the extension of the kingdom of God in ever widening circles, beginning at home and stretching forth to the ends of the earth (Isa. 54:1-3; Acts 1:8). Therefore, every member of this church is expected prayerfully to recognize and to seize every opportunity to bear witness to his faith in Christ, both by consistent Christian conduct and by the testimony of his lips.
6. Each member of the church is required to render loyal obedience to all the moral precepts of God's Word in his daily life (Rom. 8:3, 4; 1 Cor. 9:20, 21; James 2:12). If God has not condemned or forbidden a practice in His Word, a Christian is at liberty to participate in it. The exercise of Christian liberty, however, must at all times be governed by an earnest desire to walk in the fear of God and to glorify Him in all things (1 Pet. 1:17; 1 Cor. 10:31), a loving regard for the consciences of weaker brethren (1 Cor. 8:9; Rom. 15:1-3), a compassion for the lost (1 Cor. 9:19-22), and a zealous regard for the health of one's own soul (Rom. 13:14; 1 Cor. 6:12; 9:24- 27; Gal. 5:22, 23; 1 Pet. 2:16).
7. All who come into the membership of this church are expected to recognize and to submit to the authority of the overseers of the church (1 Cor. 16:15,16; 1 Thess. 5:12, 13; Heb. 13:17). This responsibility will include willingly scheduling an oversight meeting with an elder(s) when requested.
8. We who have been joined to Christ by faith and are members of this church are also members one of another (Rom. 12:5). With this privileged relationship come particular responsibilities. We must maintain mutual transparency and honesty (Eph. 4:25). We must rejoice in each other's honor and bear one another's sorrows (1 Cor. 12:26). We must discreetly confess our faults one to another (James 5:16). We must mutually oversee each other, faithfully admonish and encourage one another, avoid all backbiting and gossip, and keep in strict confidence all matters which the elders determine are of private concern to the church (Prov. 11:13; Matt. 18:15ff; 1 Thess. 5:14, 15; Heb. 3:12, 13; 10:24, 25). Also, we must, when necessary, help meet the material needs of our brethren (Gal. 6:10; James 2:14-16; 1 John 3:16-18).
H. Records of Membership
The elders shall keep a file of all past and present members. This file shall have three divisions: regular members, associate members, and former members. The file of former members shall include the date and reason church membership was terminated, as well as any other necessary information (see Article V, Section D).
A. Formative Discipline
Every disciple (follower) of Christ must be under His discipline (His instruction and correction), which is administered to each one through the church (1 Cor. 12:12-27; 1 Thess. 5:12-15; Heb. 3:12,13; 10:24, 25). Mutual submission to one another (Eph. 5:21) and to the overseers whom the Lord has set over His church (1 Pet. 5:5) will result in the sanctification of each member individually and of the whole body of the church collectively. There are occasions, however, when one's failure to respond to this formative discipline makes the application of corrective discipline necessary.
B. Corrective Discipline
1. General Statement
a. Corrective discipline becomes necessary when heretical doctrine or disorderly, immoral, or scandalous conduct appears among the members of the church. As a general rule and whenever feasible, an effort must be made to resolve difficulty, correct error, and remove offense through counsel and admonition before more drastic steps are taken (Gal. 6:1; James 5:19, 20). The principles given to us in Matt. 18:15-16, Rom. 16:17-20, 1 Cor. 5:1-13, 2 Thess. 3:6-15, 1 Tim. 5:19-20, and Titus 3:10 must be carefully followed and applied to each and every case of corrective discipline as appropriate. In some cases public admonition and/or public repentance may be warranted (Matt. 18:17; 1 Tim. 5:20). In the most extreme cases excommunication from the membership of the church may be necessary (Matt. 18:17; Rom. 16:17-20; 1 Cor. 5:1-13; 1 Tim. 1:20; Titus 3:10). All the members of the church are obliged to submit to and enforce as appropriate the decision of the church in acts of corrective discipline.
b. Since the church is a spiritual and religious institution, the punishments inflicted by the church in corrective discipline (2 Cor. 6:7) are also spiritual. They include public verbal reproof (Matt. 18:17; 1 Tim. 5:20), social avoidance (Rom. 16:17; 1 Cor. 5:9-11; 2 Thess. 3:6, 14), suspension from the Lord's Supper (1 Cor. 5:11), and removal from the membership of the church (Matt. 18:17; 1 Cor. 5:13). They are intended to effect repentance through a sense of sorrow and shame (2 Cor. 2:7; 2 Thess. 3:14). The church has no right, however, to confiscate goods, revoke conjugal rights, or inflict corporal punishment of any kind. Nevertheless, a member guilty of criminal actions may be delivered to the civil authorities according to the rule of Scripture (1 Pet. 4:15).
c. The goals of corrective discipline are always the glory of God, the welfare and purity of the church (1 Cor. 5:6) and the restoration and spiritual growth of the offender (1 Cor. 5:5; 2 Cor. 2:5-8; 1 Tim. 5:20).
2. Public Reproof or Censure
Public reproof consists of a pastoral effort, before the gathered church, to call an impenitent church member to repentance for sin too blatant to be dealt with in an exclusively private manner; or to deal with serious sin even where there may have been repentance. The elders may administer public censure whenever in their judgment either public misconduct (Gal. 2:11-14; 1 Tim. 5:20), patterns of sin (Titus 1:12, 13), or serious doctrinal error (Titus 1:10-13) pose a significant threat to the godliness, unity or testimony of the congregation. Those who humbly receive the word of public reproof, own and confess their sin, and manifest a transformed life (Prov. 28:13) shall afterward be publicly commended for their godly repentance (2 Cor. 7:7-11). If the reproof is not heeded, further discipline may be imposed.
3. Suspension
Some misconduct on the part of a member is so detrimental to the unity, holiness and testimony of the church that the Lord requires the suspension of some of the privileges of membership (Rom. 16:17-20; 2 Thess. 3:6-15). In all cases of suspension the offending person is still to be regarded as a brother in Christ and as a member of the church. Therefore, in accordance with the procedures outlined below for each of the five major categories of offenses, the elders shall at a business meeting of the church recommend that the offending member be suspended, specifying its grounds. To be valid, an act of suspension must have the approval of at least two-thirds of the members present and voting. In the interest of maintaining a climate of holiness and peace, the elders shall have the right, at their sole discretion, to impose a temporary suspension upon a member which will bar him from not more than one Lord's Table while they deliberate the most prudent course of action. The major categories of sin which require suspension are as follows:
a. A Stubborn Private Offender (Matt. 18:15-17)
When a private offense remains unresolved even after the method prescribed by our Lord in Matt. 18:15, 16 has been graciously and prayerfully followed, it is considered an aggravated offense. The brethren involved shall bring the matter to the elders who, if they judge the matter to be serious and cannot persuade the brother to repent, shall report the situation to the church, and recommend that the stubborn brother be suspended (Matt. 18:17a). If, even after a period of suspension, the person remains adamant in his sin, excommunication shall be enacted according to the procedure outlined in Paragraph B, 4, b of this Article (Matt18:17b).
b. Divisive Teachings or Behavior (Rom. 16:17-20; Titus 3:10)
When after admonition a member persists in the propagation of serious doctrinal error contrary to the Scripture and our Confessions of Faith, or attempts to sow discord among the membership contrary to the Scripture and this Constitution, he may be suspended as a factious man. Since every member is responsible to help preserve the unity of the Spirit (Eph. 4:1f.), no member is to conceal such flagrantly divisive behavior, but rather to reprove it, and disclose it to the elders (Deut. 13:6f.; 1 Cor. 1:10, 11). Whenever the elders become aware of such divisive behavior, they are to confront it meekly and patiently according to the Word of God (1 Cor. 1:10-4:21; Titus 3:10). If, even after receiving repeated admonition from the elders, a member persists in such behavior, the elders shall report the situation to the church and recommend that the divisive brother be suspended. If, even after a period of suspension, the person remains impenitent, excommunication shall be enacted according to the procedure outlined in Paragraph B, 4, b of this Article.
c. Disorderly Behavior (2 Thess. 3:6-15)
When a member deliberately persists in conduct which displays a flagrant or public disregard for either the order appointed by God for all mankind in the creation ordinances, namely, work, sabbath and marriage (Gen. 2:1-3, 15, 18-24; Exod. 20:8-11; 1 Cor. 7:1-17, 39; 2 Thess. 3:6-15; 1 Tim. 5:8; Titus 2:5); or for the order established by Christ for His church in Scripture (1 Cor. 11:17-34; 14:37-40; 1 Tim. 3:14, 15) and adapted to our church in this Constitution, he may be suspended as a disorderly man (2 Thess. 3:6). Whenever the elders become aware that, in spite of the admonitions of formative discipline (1 Thess. 5:14), a member is behaving disorderly, they are to confront him meekly and patiently according to the Word of God (2 Thess. 3:14, 15). If, even after receiving such admonition from the elders, a member persists in this behavior, the elders shall report the situation to the church and recommend that the disorderly brother be suspended (2 Thess. 3:14, 15). If, even after the period of suspension, the person remains impenitent, excommunication shall be enacted according to the procedure outlined in Paragraph B, 4, b of this Article.
d. A Scandalous Sin
If a member has sinned scandalously but shows hopeful signs of repentance, including submission to the elders, it may still be prudent to suspend him for a time so that he may clearly manifest repentance (Matt. 3:8), so that reproach not be brought upon the Name of Christ and the church (2 Sam. 12:14; Rom. 2:24), and so that others may not be emboldened to sin (1 Tim. 5:20). If fruits worthy of repentance are not forthcoming, the elders may recommend to the church at a later date that this person be excommunicated according to the procedure outlined in Paragraph B, 4, b of this Article.
e. Contempt of Church Discipline
If a person is accused or suspected of a sin requiring corrective discipline, yet absents himself from the meetings of the church, or refuses to meet with the elders so that the matter may be investigated, such a person may be suspended (Matt. 18:17; Num. 16:12, 20, 23-27). The elders may recommend to the church at a later date that this person be excommunicated according to the procedure outlined in Paragraph B, 4, b of this Article.
4. Excommunication.
a. In addition to the excommunication of those who have been previously suspended, some expressions of sin (ethical or doctrinal) are so gross and heinous in nature that preliminary actions like public reproof and suspension are inappropriate. In such cases, the guilty member may be immediately excommunicated by the church (1 Cor 5:1-4). This severe measure is to be employed when both aggravated lawlessness is discovered, and there are no hopeful signs of repentance. This severe measure is designed to purge the lawbreaker of his lethal attachment to his sin, unto a sincere and enduring repentance (1 Cor 5:5; 6:9-11). The elders, therefore, having made earnest but unsuccessful efforts to bring the offender to true repentance and reformation, shall report the same to the church and recommend that the offender be excommunicated.
b. All acts of excommunication must be executed by the gathered church (Matt. 18:17; 1 Cor. 5:4). To be valid, an act of excommunication must have the approval of at least two thirds of the members present and voting.
5. Restoration
Since one purpose of church discipline is to restore a fallen brother or sister, it is the duty of the church to forgive and to restore to full membership a suspended or excommunicated member who gives satisfactory evidence of his repentance (2 Cor 2:6-8). This shall be done in a duly convened business meeting of the church by no less than two thirds of the members present and voting.
A. General Statement
There are two ordinances of special significance that our Lord has commanded us to observe, namely, Baptism and the Lord's Supper. (These are sometimes referred to as "sacraments.") Neither of them has saving merit, nor is any grace imparted to the recipient through the water of Baptism or through the bread and the cup of the Supper. These ordinances are not means of "special grace," but they are special "means of grace" and powerful aids to the faith of the believers who participate in them.
B. Baptism
1. Only confessed disciples of our Lord Jesus Christ are proper candidates for Baptism, and all such persons should be baptized and joined to a local church (Acts 2:38, 41, 47; 5:13, 14). Believing that Baptism in water is the God-ordained sign of one's personal union with Christ in His death, burial, and resurrection, and the door of entrance into the visible community of the people of God, we shall receive into the membership of the church only those who have been baptized as believers "into the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit" (Matt. 28:19). Immersion in water is the biblical mode of baptism, is necessary for its due administration, and is the only mode to be administered by this church.
2. Occasionally, a genuine believer in the Lord Jesus Christ whose baptism is marked by irregularities of mode may apply for membership in this church. It is according to the mind of Christ that a believer who was baptized by a mode other than immersion should be immersed as a believer. Occasionally, such a believer may be prevented by his conscience from doing this. Therefore, should this be the case, the elders may at their discretion admit such a person if they believe that it is in the best interests of the person and this church. Before such a person is admitted, he must be submissive to instruction on the subject and prove to have a teachable and peaceable spirit with regard to the standards of this church respecting baptism. Should such a member come to agreement with the convictions of this church, he must, then, be immersed.
C. The Lord's Supper
Whereas Baptism is the initiatory ordinance by which one enters the visible church, and should be observed only once by each believer, the Lord's Supper should be celebrated frequently by the assembled church (1 Cor. 11:26). While this is a most holy ordinance and should be observed with solemnity and dignity, the bread and the cup of the Supper are and remain only symbols of the broken body and the shed blood of our Lord Jesus Christ. In order to maintain the purity of this ordinance, the elders will faithfully seek to insure that only true believers who are members in good standing of true churches are admitted to the Table. True believers whose church membership involves unusual circumstances may be admitted at the discretion of the elders. The Lord's Supper shall be celebrated by the church no less than once every month.
A. General Statement
Jesus Christ alone is the Head of His Church (Col.1:18). He has ordained that individual churches should be governed by Himself through officers whom He appoints, who are endowed by His Spirit with the gifts and graces needed to accomplish their work. Christ has ordained that local churches are to be administered by elders and deacons. Beside these two offices the Scriptures acknowledge no office which continues in the church today (Phil. 1:1; 1 Tim. 3:1-13).
B. General Prerequisites
1. All officers of this church must be members of it except as provided in Section H of this Article.
2. Any individual set apart to one of these offices must be able to conscientiously affirm his agreement with the church's Confessions of Faith and Constitution. If he should at any time move from this position, he would be under spiritual and moral obligation to immediately make that fact known to the elders in an orderly manner.
3. While we acknowledge the valuable gifts which God has given women and the valuable assistance they may render to the officers of the church (Rom. 16:1-6; Phil. 4:3; 1 Tim. 3:11), the Bible prohibits women from holding either the office of deacon or elder in the church (1 Cor. 14:33b-35; 1 Tim. 2:8-15; 3:1-7). Women, therefore, shall not be nominated, elected, or ordained to either of these offices in the church. It is also contrary to Scripture for any woman to exercise headship or leadership in a formal meeting of the whole church either by leading in prayer, conducting the worship, reading the Scripture, leading the singing, administering the sacraments, or ministering the Word of God (1 Cor. 14:33b-35; 1 Tim. 2:8-15). Since it is also a violation of the Scriptures for a woman to exercise authority over a man in spiritual things outside a meeting of the whole church, no woman shall be appointed to a teaching or authoritative function in a ministry of the church where adult men would be regularly under her ministry. Nevertheless, we acknowledge and encourage the valuable gifts and assistance of women in the formal instruction of children and other women (Titus 2:3-5), in the informal instruction even of men (1 Cor. 11:5; Acts 18:26), and in the diaconal and especially the benevolent ministries of the church (1 Tim. 3:11; 5:9, 10).
C. Elders
1. Those who have been called of God to rule and teach in the church are called elders, pastors, or bishops. These are three interchangeable names designating one and the same office in a New Testament church (Acts 20:17, 28; Eph. 4:11, 12; Titus 1:5, 7).
2. Anyone desiring the office of an elder must evidence to God's people the personal, domestic, and ministerial qualifications that are set forth in the Scriptures (1 Tim. 3:1- 7; Titus 1:5-9).
3. Because the authority of the elders of the church is human authority exercised in the house of God, it has both high prerogatives and important limitations:
a. It is divinely-delegated authority. Thus, elders are answerable to God for the exercise of this authority (Acts 20:28; Heb. 13:17). Therefore, elders are obligated to discharge all of the duties specified by God in the Scriptures (particularly in such passages as Acts 20:17, 28ff; 1 Pet. 5:1-4; and Heb. 13:17).
b. When they exercise this authority by requiring obedience to themselves, they must seek to gain the consciences of God's people through the ministry of the Word (Eph. 4:11c; 1 Tim. 3:2c; 2 Tim. 4:1-2; Heb. 13:17).
c. The authority of the elders does not include the right to make certain decisions unilaterally. In major decisions of church life (such as those having to do with corrective discipline, recognition of officers, and the sale of a church building), the local church as a whole has a voice (Acts 6:2-6; 9:26; 1 Cor. 5:4-5; 13; 2 Cor. 2:6). Yet the elders' must provide definitive leadership to the church in the making of such decisions.
d. The authority of the elders is limited to the sphere of the local church. Thus, they will not require punishments for sin beyond those of biblical church discipline, will not invade the biblically-defined spheres of other divinely- ordained human authorities (husbands, fathers, civil rulers, and employers), and will not command God's people regarding matters not specified in Scripture except to order the house of God by the application of His Word (Matt. 22:21; Luke 12:13-14; Acts 20:28; 1 Pet. 5:3a; Rom. 13:1-7; Eph. 5:22-6:9; 1 Cor. 7:25-28; 35-40).
e. The authority of elders is conditioned by the fact that they are themselves members of the local church. While elders are shepherds over the flock, they are also members of the flock. Therefore, each individual elder is entitled to the same privileges, is obligated by the same responsibilities, and is subject to the same discipline as are all the other members of the church. Thus, each individual elder is both under the oversight of his fellow elders and accountable to the church as a whole (Matt. 18:17; 23:9; 26:31; 2 Cor. 11:19-20; Gal. 2:11; 3 John 1, 9, 10). (However, Section H of this Article does provide for the temporary oversight of elders from a sister church who would not be members of this particular local church.)
f. The authority of every elder (or pastor) is the same. Thus, every elder has equal rule in the church. Though gifts possessed and functions performed will vary from elder to elder, this diversity must not undermine real parity among the elders (Acts 20:28 (cp. 17); Gal 2:11; 1 Pet. 5:1-2; 1 Tim. 5:17).
g. Finally, the authority of the elders is very real authority. God's people are, therefore, required to submit when it is biblically exercised (Heb. 13:17; note also the Scriptural titles and functions of the office).
4. One crucial aspect of the elders' duties is personally overseeing the flock of God. Fulfillment of this duty shall include regularly and systematically meeting with each member of the church on at least an annual basis, except when physically impossible due to distance.
5. Elders will be maintained in material necessities and disentangled from the cares of another vocation according to their gifts, the needs and capability of the church, and the direction of Christ her Head (1 Tim.5:17ff).
6. Though a plurality of elders is the New Testament norm for every church, the New Testament does not specify the number of elders each church should have, nor does it dictate the length of an elder's term of office. One truly called to this office is usually called to it for life. He is a gift of Christ to the church, and the gifts of God are without repentance. Only when an elder fails to meet the necessary scriptural qualifications for his office does he disqualify himself from being an elder.
D. Deacons
1. Deacons are responsible primarily to administer the benevolent concerns of the church as well as its business affairs (Acts 6:1-4). They must fulfill the duties of their office in cooperation with, and in subjection to, the elders.
2. The number of deacons shall not be fixed. The church shall set apart according to its need men who evidence the scriptural qualifications for that office (Acts 6:1-7; 1 Tim. 3:8-13).
E. Appointment of Officers
1. General Statement
The appointment of elders and deacons is the prerogative of the Lord Jesus Christ alone. However, He has ordained that each local church exercise the responsibility of recognizing those whom He is appointing to be elders and deacons in that particular church. Elders and deacons are ordained to office by the laying on of hands by the eldership (1 Tim. 4:14). This is an expression of approval for which the elders are responsible (1 Tim. 5:22). Therefore, each officer must have the approval, not only of the church as a whole, but of the eldership in particular. The Lord's appointment of an individual to either of these offices is recognized by means of that individual's possession of those graces and gifts required by Scripture for the particular office and his own conviction that the Lord is calling him to minister in that office. The recognition of officers is a matter of such importance that it should never be dealt with without much prayerful waiting upon God, an honest perusal of the relevant passages of Scripture, and a frank evaluation of those who are being considered. Each member of the church has a spiritual responsibility to be intelligently informed regarding these matters.
2. Procedure of Appointment
The recognition of those whom the Lord has appointed to bear office in this church is executed in three steps: nomination, election, and ordination.
a. Nomination
Nominations to either office are made by the eldership. At least once every year at the annual business meeting an advisory ballot shall be taken. On this ballot each voting member may write the name of any male members and the office for which he believes that member to be qualified.
b. Election
Any church meeting for the election of officers shall be announced on four consecutive Lord's Days previous to its being held. The names of all nominees shall be separately discussed and voted upon. During the discussion the nominee under consideration and members of his immediate family shall leave the presence of the church until the written ballot is taken. The scriptural qualifications shall be read and expounded, and the nominee's qualifications openly discussed in the fear of God and with due respect for the reputation of the nominee. The church should seek unity of mind concerning each nominee, but should such unity not be fully realized, no fewer than three-fourths of those ballots cast shall be required for election. This vote shall take place by written ballot subsequent to a full and free discussion oriented to the relevant Scriptural passages. The vote shall stand as it is first given in the written ballot.
c. Ordination
Following the election of an officer there shall be a portion of a regular worship service set aside at which time the officer shall be ordained by the laying on of the hands of the eldership. This solemn act should always be accompanied by the special prayers of the whole church (Acts 13:1-3). The laying on of the elders' hands shall signify their approval of an officer-elect. Should the elders be unable to conscientiously ordain an officer- elect (1 Tim. 5:22), they shall inform each member of their reasons in an appropriate manner.
F. Review of Officers
1. Officers shall hold office only as long as they meet the biblical qualifications for their office in the esteem of the church. The church, therefore, shall reconfirm (or withdraw) its confidence in the biblical qualifications of each officer four years after his ordination and every fourth year thereafter.
2. There may arise reasons that would require an officer to be reviewed before the regularly scheduled time. Such a review meeting may be called by a majority of the elders (or a majority of the other elders in the case of an elder). The members may also request such a meeting. This request must be set forth in writing with the signatures of one-fourth of the total voting membership of the church. It must be presented to the elders, who shall in a timely and constitutional way (see Paragraph 3 below) call such a meeting.
3. Any meeting for the review of an officer shall be announced on four consecutive Lord's Days previous to its being held. During the discussion, the officer under consideration and members of his immediate family shall leave the presence of the church until the written ballot is taken. The scriptural qualifications shall be read and expounded, and the officer's qualifications openly discussed in the fear of God and with due respect for the reputation of the officer. Any member who publicly suggests in such a meeting that the officer being reviewed is unqualified for his office must have previously spoken with the officer himself and informed the elders of the church of his concerns (1 Tim. 5:19). He must also present biblical and factual warrant for his concerns at the review meeting. Just as it is wrong for a church to retain an officer who is not biblically qualified, so also it is rebellion against the head of the church to reject an officer for any but biblical grounds. Additionally, any officer about whom such concerns are raised must be permitted, if he wishes, to return to the meeting and defend himself. The church should seek unity of mind concerning the matter, but should such unity not be fully realized, no fewer than three-fourths of those ballots cast shall be required for the confirmation of an officer in his office. Any officer failing of confirmation no longer holds office in the church. This vote shall take place by written ballot; and the vote shall stand as it is first given in the written ballot. 4. An officer may resign his office without prejudice if he does so in an orderly fashion and for good and valid reasons. This resignation together with its reasons and the date upon which he wishes his resignation to be effective shall be submitted in writing to the elders of the Church.
G. Full Support of Elders
1. Though all elders are equal as to the authority of their office, not all elders possess qualifications warranting full financial support in the office. The Bible teaches that special ability in ruling the church and, more especially, in public teaching and preaching are gifts worthy of full financial support (Gal. 6:6; 1 Tim. 5:17; 1 Cor. 9:1-14). Thus, before it undertakes his full support, the church must recognize that an elder or nominee to the eldership possesses special ministerial gifts and that he is excelling in the employment of those gifts for the benefit of the church, in ways appropriate to his opportunities. Special caution should be exercised in giving full support to an elder for the following reasons:
(1) full support necessitates his removal from a secular vocation, which, in the interests of Christ's Kingdom and of his family, might be a more advantageous position for him to occupy;
(2) a major portion of the church's financial stewardship is involved, for which its Head will hold it accountable; and
(3) a fully supported elder has a greater influence upon the church, for good or ill. The provisions of this Section apply to any proportion of financial support required by an increase of ministry that would hinder an elder's full-time employment in a secular vocation.
2. The elders may recommend to the church that an existing elder or a nominee to the eldership be fully supported.
a. In the case of a nominee, full support may be considered in conjunction with the consideration of his qualifications for the eldership. In such a case, the elders will inform the church of their recommendation when the business meeting for this purpose is announced. A distinct discussion and vote for both election to the office and full support in the office is not necessary.
b. In the case of an existing elder who is being recommended for full support, a church meeting to consider this recommendation shall be announced on four consecutive Lord's Days prior to its being held. Such a recommendation may be considered in conjunction with the review of the elder involved. A distinct discussion and vote for both confirmation in the office and full support in the office is not necessary.
3. During any meeting where full support is being considered, special attention shall be given to the relevant teaching of Scripture (Gal. 6:6; 1 Tim. 5:17; 1 Cor. 9:1-14). During the discussion the man under consideration and members of his immediate family shall leave the presence of the church until the written ballot is taken. Such discussion must at all times reflect the fear of God, the claims of truth, and the gravity of the matter. Any vote upon full support requires three-fourths of those ballots cast for approval.
4. The full support of elders as well as their continuation in office will be subject to review (see Section F). Normally a review of full support will take place in conjunction with the review of an elder's qualification for office, whether at regular intervals or at special review meetings. However, circumstances may arise in which an elder's full support may need to be reviewed as an issue separate from his continuation in office. In such cases, a review shall follow the applicable procedures outlined in Paragraphs 2 and 3 above. Continuance of full support shall require three-fourths of the ballots cast.
H. Loss of a Plurality of Elders
1. This Constitution assumes, and the norms of biblical church order require, that a plurality of elders oversee this local church. Therefore, if at any period in the life of the church, there no longer exists a plurality of elders in office; and this lack cannot in a timely way be supplied, the remaining elder (or the church, if there are no elders) shall seek the temporary oversight of the pastors of a trusted sister church holding as its doctrinal standard the London Baptist Confession of Faith of 1689. The purposes of such an arrangement are to provide pastoral care and leadership in the recognition of a plurality of elders.
2. When an eldership meeting this requirement and willing to undertake these responsibilities is located, the church shall within a reasonable period of time officially place itself under this eldership. If the church has a remaining elder, this eldership shall function as his fellow elders. This action shall be taken by a written ballot at a properly called meeting of the church. A 3/4 majority of those present and voting is necessary for such an action. The recognition of the oversight of such an eldership shall be confirmed (or failing a 3/4 majority withdrawn) in the same way at the annual meeting of the church in succeeding years. When a plurality of resident elders is raised up, the oversight arrangement here described shall immediately cease.
In order to "render unto Caesar the things that are Caesar's," this church shall have an official Board of Trustees. The official board shall consist of the resident pastors (elders) as voting members and deacons as non-voting members. In the absence of a resident plurality of elders, both the eldership and the diaconate must approve any decision relevant to the Board of Trustees. The voting members of this board shall serve as the legal representatives of the church.
A. The Annual Business Meeting
An annual business meeting of the church shall be held in January or February of each year. At this annual meeting the advisory nominations ballot shall be taken (see Article VIII, Section E, Paragraph 2, a). A report shall be given by the elders which shall contain an account of the membership of the church. The status of those whose membership involves unusual circumstances will be reviewed. A financial report for the previous year and the proposed budget for the coming year shall also be presented. These reports including the proposed budget shall be approved by a vote of the church.
B. The Occasional Business Meetings
Church business meetings may be called by the pastors or when one-fourth (1/4) of the voting members make a written request for such a meeting. This request must state the reason for the meeting, be signed by one-fourth (1/4) of the members in good standing, and must be presented to the pastors, who shall in turn make the proper announcement of the meeting. Every meeting at which business is to be transacted shall be announced at regular services for at least two (2) successive Sundays. Other business meetings at which there is no business transacted by vote may be called at the discretion of the pastors without previous notice.
C. Voting
All members except those suspended by a vote of the church shall constitute the voting membership of the church (Article VI, B, 3). All voting members should regard their presence at a duly called church meeting with the same seriousness with which they would regard their attendance at a stated service of worship. It shall be our goal to prayerfully discern the mind of God so that in all matters of church business it may be said of us, as it was said of that church business meeting recorded in Acts 6, that this thing "pleased the whole multitude." However, in situations in which this unanimity is not realized, no less than a two- thirds (2/3) majority of those voting will make a resolution valid. In other matters wherein the Constitution requires a different proportionate vote, this two-thirds (2/3) figure will be overridden by the express statements of the Constitution regarding those categories of business. The voting members present at any properly convened meeting of the church shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business. The elders shall cancel any previously announced business meeting of the church if through an act of God (such as inclement weather) an unusually large proportion of the members of the church cannot be present.
A. Nature
This Constitution, as with any other non-inspired document, is not infallible. It does, however, reflect an earnest and sincere attempt to apply the Scriptures in ordering the life of this local church. Furthermore, we as members of this church, including the elders, have solemnly committed ourselves to follow this Constitution in ordering the life of this church (see the Preamble). Therefore the demands of the ninth commandment, and the sanctity of truth in general, require that the elders and all of the members of this church abide by our mutual commitment.
B. Deficiencies
Only when we must obey God rather than the provisions of this Constitution may its requirements be disregarded (Acts 5:29). If at any time a member of this church becomes aware that adherence to this Constitution would violate biblical principle, he should make this known to the elders. If the elders conclude that biblical principle requires disregarding a provision of this Constitution, they are obligated to communicate this together with the reason(s) for their conclusion to the church within one month at a duly called meeting of the church. Furthermore, relevant amendments to this Constitution must be submitted to the church and acted upon in accordance with the provisions of Section C within one year following this informational meeting. The failure of the elders to observe these requirements will constitute a legitimate reason for the calling of a special meeting by the members of the church in accordance with Article X, Section B.
C. Amendments
Amendments to this Constitution may be adopted by three-fourths of those voting at any regular church meeting or at a special meeting called for this purpose provided, in either case, that such proposed amendments shall be distributed in written form to the membership at least four (4) weeks prior to such a meeting.
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The summer break has passed and so too has most of my free time. Normally, this would upset me but this summer was a bit different than the last three or four.
I have never taken any courses over the summer break, initially because my college had made cuts and consequently did not offer any of the courses I need over the summer semester, and I have kept to this rule even after I transferred to a four-year university. I took the summer breaks, and the free time they afforded me, as an opportunity to focus on personal projects, such as reading books, writing for my blog or other things, and social engagements.
I typically get a lot done over the summer but last summer was a different matter. I wasn't nearly as productive as I usually am during the summer break and I failed to complete, or even begin, some of the projects I wanted to work on. I felt very disappointed in myself but, on the other hand, I got plenty of rest and saw friends and family frequently. Sometimes the simple things are enough.
Productivity is a funny thing. I know a lot of it comes down to commitment and perseverance. You can't just wait for inspiration to motivate you. You have to motivate yourself. I often find this to be a problem for me and a especially difficult problem during the long summer break. The other problem is the illusion of time. Whenever I have lot of time on my hands to do things I tend to put them off, thinking I can always do it later because I have so much time, but in actually, this lends itself to perpetual delay.
Oddly enough, I often feel like I can get more done during the semester, when I have more work to do and much less time for anything else, and I believe this comes done to how I perceive time. Because time is strictly limited and I want to work on personal projects, it is easier to motivated myself because I can't really procrastinate, and when I need ti put off my personal projects it is typically for very sound reasons. I can be productive even when I'm not working on my personal projects because I have also important work to do for school but during the summer I don't have this to fall back on.
Next summer may be a different story. One of the courses required for my major includes a internship, which I suspect (but have as yet not confirmed) may be off-campus, and rather than take it during the Fall or Spring semesters, where the demands on my time and energy are strong, I may take it during the Summer semester. I don't know whether it will help to improve my productivity but I intend to make it so.