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The bishop's beggar.
It seems that in the old days there was a bishop of Remo, and he was a heedless and proud young man, though of good intentions. Now, that was possible in those days, when the fire and light of the new learning had spread through Italy and men drank, as if intoxicated, at a new spring. There were bishops who cared less for the Word of God than for their own splendor, and cardinals who were rather men of the world--and of no good world --than sons of the Church. I do not say that our bishop was as idle and self-seeking as some of these; I do say that he was a child of his time. He would have liked to be a lord, but his eldest brother was the lord; he would have liked to be a soldier, but his second brother was the soldier. So he went into the Church, for there, too, a man who bore a great name could rise. He was clever, he was ambitious, he had great connections. Now and then, to be sure, he asked a disquieting question, but the Baldis had always been original. The path that is rugged for many was made smooth for him from the first. When he was made bishop of Remo, at an early age, the fact did not surprise him. Since he was to be neither lord nor soldier, he found that pleasant enough.
All went well for him, at first. They were glad to have a young and handsome bishop at Remo, for the bishop before him had been old and ill-favored. It was a pleasure to no one to kiss his ring, and he frightened the children with his peering eyes. With the coming of our bishop all this was changed. There was a great to-do and refurbishing of the bishop's palace; the smells of good cooking drifted again from the bishop's kitchens; when the bishop drove through the city, men threw their caps in the air. There were fine new frescoes in the cathedral--a new way of chanting in the choir. As for sin and suffering-- well, they are always with us. The people of Remo liked to sin pleasantly and be reminded of it as little as possible.
Nevertheless, at times, a grayness would come over our bishop's spirit. He could not understand why it came. His life was both full and busy. He was a friend to art, a host to the gay and the learned, a ruler of men. He did not meddle in things which did not concern him; he felt in his heart that there was no prize in the Church which might not be within his grasp. And yet, at times, there was a grayness within him. It was singular.
He could not show that grayness before the world, he could not show it to his secretary or the witty company that gathered at his table. He could wrestle with it in prayer, and so he did. But he found it no easy task. Had the Devil appeared before him with horns and a tail, he would have known what to do. But a grayness of spirit--a cool little voice in the mind which said to him now and then, "What do you in these robes, at this place, Gianfrancesco Baldi?'--that was another matter.
He came to find by experience that motion in the open air helped him as much as anything. When the grayness oppressed him too severely, he would summon his coach and drive about the countryside. So one day, as he drove through a small country village in the hills beyond Remo, it happened. It was nobody's fault; the bishop's least of all. He saw to it that he had a skillful coachman and good horses as he saw to all such matters. But when a tall, gangling boy darts across the street right under the nose of the horses, the most skillful coachman cannot always save him. There was a cry and a scream and a soft jar. Then, where the coach had passed, the boy lay writhing in the street.
The bishop always showed at his best in emergency. When he got out of the coach the angry shouts of the crowd died away to a respectful murmur. He lifted the boy into the coach with his strong arms and drove back with him to Remo. On the way he talked to him soothingly, though the boy was in too much pain to pay much attention to this graciousness. When they got to Remo he had the boy carried to a servant's room in the palace and doctors summoned for him. Later on he gave instructions about cleaning the coach.
At dinner his secretary recounted the little incident and all men praised the kindliness of the bishop. The bishop passed it off pleasantly, but, at heart, he felt a trifle irritated. He had not felt particularly drawn toward the boy; on the other hand, he could not have left him lying in the road.
By the next day, as such things do, the story had gone all over Remo and there were unusual demonstrations of good will as the bishop passed to the cathedral. The bishop received them with dignity, but his irritation remained. He disliked ostentatious shows of virtue and distrusted the fickleness of crowds. Nevertheless, it was his duty to see the boy, and he did so.
Washed, combed and rid of his vermin, the boy looked ordinary enough, though somewhat older than the bishop had thought him. His body was slight and emaciated, but he had a well-shaped head and large liquid eyes. These stared at the bishop with some intensity; indeed with such intensity that the bishop wondered, at first, if the boy might not be an idiot. But a little conversation proved him sound of mind, though rustic in speech.
His name was Luigi and he was an orphan, living as best he could. In the summer he tended goats; in the winter he lived with his uncle and aunt, the tavern keepers, who fed him and beat him. His age was about 19. He had made his Easter duty as a Christian. He would never walk again.
Such were the facts of the case, and the bishop thought them over clear-headedly. He wondered what to do with the boy.
"Luigi,' he said, "would you like to go back to your village?'
"Oh, no,' said the boy. "It is a very good village, but now that I can no longer herd goats, there is no place in it for me. Besides, one eats better in Remo--I have had white cheese twice already.' And he smacked his lips. His voice was remarkably strong and cheerful, the bishop noticed with surprise.
"Very well,' said the bishop patiently. "You need not go back if you do not choose. You are now, in some sense, a ward of the Church, and the wings of the Church are sheltering.' He looked at the boy's legs, lying limp and motionless under the covers, and felt, though against his will, the natural distaste of the hale man for the maimed. "You might learn some useful trade,' he said thoughtfully. "There are many trades where the hands do all--a cobbler's, a tailor's, a basket weaver's'
The boy shook his head joyfully. "Oh, no, your lordship,' he said. "Trades take so long to learn and I am very stupid. It would not be worth the expense; your lordship would be embarrassed.'
"My lordship, perhaps, is the best judge of that,' said the bishop a trifle grimly. He kept thinking of the boy's remark about white cheese; it must be a spare life indeed where white cheese was such a treat. "But we are reasonable,' he said. "Come, what would you be?'
"A beggar!' said the boy, and his dark eyes shone with delight.
"A beggar?' said the bishop, astonished and somewhat revolted.
"Why, yes,' said the boy, as if it were the most natural thing in the world. "For ten years my father begged on the cathedral steps. That was before your lordship's time, but he was an excellent beggar and a master of his craft. True, he was subject to continual persecutions and jealousies from the honorable corporation of the beggars of Remo, coming, as he did, from outside the city. It was that which caused the ruin of our fortunes, for, in the end, when he had begun to fail, they threw him down a well, where he caught a bad cold and died of it. But in his good days he could outbeg any two of them. If your lordship would care to have me demonstrate his celebrated fainting fit, when his eyeballs rolled backward in his head----'
"I can think of nothing I should like less,' said the bishop, shocked and disgusted, for it seemed to him an unworthy thing that a sturdy young man, though a cripple, should think of nothing better than beggary. "Besides,' he said, "these other beggars you speak of--if they persecuted your father, no doubt they would persecute you.'
"Me?' said the boy, and laughed. "Oh, once they understood, they would not dare touch me--not even Giuseppe, the Hook. I would be your lordship's beggar--the bishop's beggar!' And a light as of great peace and contentment spread over his countenance.
The bishop stared at him for a long time in silence. "That is what you wish?' he said, and his voice was dry.
"That is what I wish, your lordship,' said the boy, nodding his head.
"So be it,' said the bishop with a sigh, and left him. But when his coachman came to him the next morning for orders, it was all he could do to keep from reviling the man.
The bishop was not the sort of man who liked beggars. Indeed, were it not for custom and Christian charity, he could long since have cleared them from the steps of his cathedral. He could not very well do that; he knew what an impression such a move would make. Nevertheless, when he passed among them, as he must at times, he saw to it that his almoner made a suitable distribution of small coins, but he himself did his best to see and smell them as little as possible. Their whines and their supplications, their simulated sores and their noisome rags--these were a fret and a burden to him.
Now, it seemed, he was to have a beggar of his own. He would have taken it as a suitable humiliation for pride, but he did not feel himself to be a proud man. Nor could he think of the accident as anything but an accident. Had he deliberately trodden the lad beneath the hoofs of his horses--but he had not. He was well liked, able, decisive, a rising son of the Church. Nevertheless, he was to have a beggar--every day he must see his beggar on the steps of the cathedral, a living reproach, a living lesson in idleness and heedlessness. It was a small thing, to be sure, but it darkened his dinner and made him sore at heart.
Therefore, being the man he was, he put a mask upon his face. He meant to speak of the thing, so it should be known--at least that might ward off ridicule. He spoke of it to his secretary; the secretary agreed that it was a very seemly and Christian idea of his lordship's, while the bishop wondered if the man laughed at him in his sleeve. He spoke of it to others; there were compliments, of course. Each time he spoke of it, it turned a small knife in his breast. But that did not keep him from speaking of it, nor from seeing that every care was given Luigi.
Nevertheless, he dreaded the day when Luigi would take up his post on the steps of the cathedral. He dreaded and yearned for it, both. For then, at last, the thing would be done. After that, like many things, it would become a custom and in time Luigi himself would fade into the mass of whining beggary that haunted the steps of the cathedral. But things were not to be quite that way.
He admired, while he detested, the thoroughness with which Luigi prepared himself for his profession. He heard the whine ring out from the servants' quarters--"ten scudi for Luigi!'--he saw the little cart and the crutches Luigi had made for himself. Now and then he heard his own servants laugh at the beggar's stories. This was hard enough to bear. But at last the day of parting came.
To his disgust, the bishop found the boy neither clean nor well clad, as he had been since his accident, but dirty and dressed in tatters. He opened his mouth to reprove the boy, then he shut it again, for it seemed pitifully true that a beggar must dress his part. Nevertheless, the bishop did not like it. He asked Luigi, coolly, how he meant to live.
"Oh, your lordship's secretary has found me a very suitable chamber,' said Luigi eagerly. "It is on the ground floor of a rookery by the river and it has room for my crutches, my gear and my cart. He will move me there tonight. Tomorrow I will be at my post on the steps of the cathedral.' And he smiled gratefully at the bishop. "That will be a great day,' he said.
"So,' said the bishop, who could not trust himself to say anything further.
"Yet before I go,' said Luigi, "I must thank your lordship for his kindness, and ask your lordship's blessing on my work. That is only suitable.'
The bishop stiffened. "I may bless you, Luigi,' he said, "but your work I cannot bless. I cannot give the blessing of the Church to the work of a man who lives by beggary when he might live otherwise.'
"Well, then, I must go unblessed,' siad Luigi cheerfully. "After all, your lordship has already done so much for me! The bishop's beggar! How my uncle and aunt will stare!'
Now, of all the vainglorious, selfseeking, worthless, rascally sons of iniquity--and to think that I stand your sponsor, said the bishop, but, fortunately, he did not say it aloud. Silently he extended his ring and Luigi kissed it with such innocent reverence that the bishop was sorely moved to give him his blessing after all. But he summoned up his principles and departed in silence.
The bishop slept ill that night, tormented by dreams of Luigi. He dreamed that, for his sins, he must carry Luigi on his back all the way up the steps of the cathedral. And as he mounted each step the weight upon his back became more crushing, till at last he woke, unrefreshed.
The next day he went to the cathedral in great state, though it was an ordinary Sunday. Yet he felt the state to be, in some measure, a protection. When he passed by the steps of the cathedral, the beggars set up their usual supplications. He sent his almoner among them; it was over quicker than he thought. He did not look for Luigi and yet he felt Luigi's eyes upon him as he stood there for a moment, splendid in robe and miter. Then the thing was finished.
In the cathedral that same day, he preached passionately against the sins of idleness and heedlessness. Seldom had he been so moving--he could feel that from his congregation. When Mass was over he retired to his palace, exhausted. Yet it was pleasant for him to walk about the palace and know that Luigi was not there.
It was just after vespers when his secretary came to him and told him that a man called Giuseppe, self-styled provost of the company of the beggars of Remo, requested an audience. The bishop sighed wearily and ordered the man brought before him. He was a squat fellow of great strength and an evil cast of countenance, for one side of his face had been so burned in a fire that it was as if he had two faces, one of them inhuman. Also, his left arm terminated in an iron hook.
"This is Giuseppe, the beggar, your lordship,' said the secretary, with repugnance.
"Giuseppe, called Doubre-Face, also called the Hook, provost of the honorable company of the beggars of Remo,' said Giuseppe in a rusty voice, and plumped on his knees.
The bishop raised him and asked his business.
"Well, your lordship, it's this new fellow, Luigi Lamelegs,' said Giuseppe. "I've got nothing against him personal--I wouldn't hurt a fly myself in a personal way,' and he grinned horribly--"but there he is in a good place on the steps, and your lordship's servants put him there. Well, now, if he's your lordship's beggar, that's one thing--though, even so, there's fees and vails to be paid, for that's the custom. But if he isn't your lordship's beggar--and your lordship paid him no attention this morning----'
"Stop!' said the bishop with anger. "Do you mean to tell me that the very steps of the cathedral are bartered and sold among you? Why, this is simony--this is the sin of simony!'
"Your lordship can call it hard words,' said Giuseppe stolidly, "but that's been the way it's been done ever since there were beggars in Remo. I paid 20 crowns for my own place, and fought old Marco too. But that's beside the point. Your lordship has a right to a beggar if your lordship wants one--we're all agreed to that. But the question is: Is this man your lordship's beggar or isn't he?'
"And supposing I said he was not my beggar?' said the bishop, trembling.
"Well, that's all we'd want to know,' said Giuseppe. "And thank your lordship kindly. I had my own suspicions of the man from the first. But we've got him down by the river now--Carlo and Benito and old blind Marta; she's a tough one, old blind Marta--and once we're through with him, he'll trouble your lordship no more.' And sketching a clumsy salute, the man turned to go.
"Stop!' said the bishop again. "Would you have the guilt of murder upon your conscience?'
"Oh, your lordship takes it too hard,' said Giuseppe, shuffling his feet. "What's one beggar more or less? We're not rich folk or learned folk to bother a mind like your lordship's. We breed and we die, and there's an end. And even at the best, it's no bed of roses on the steps of the cathedral.'
The bishop wished to say many things, but he could think of only one.
"I declare to you that this man is my beggar,' he said "I stretch my hand over him.'
"Well, that's very nicely spoken of your lordship,' said Giuseppe, in a grumbling voice, "and I dare say we can make room for him. But if the man's to keep a whole skin, your lordship had best come with me--old Marta was talking of ear slitting when I left her.'
So they found Luigi, bound but cheerful, in his first-floor chamber by the river, guarded by the persons Giuseppe had described--a hunchback, a dwarf and a blind woman. The window which gave upon the river was open, and a large sack, weighted with stones, lay in one corner of the room. The bishop's arrival produced a certain consternation on the part of all but Luigi, who seemed to take it as a matter of course. After the boy had been unbound the bishop addressed the beggars with some vivacity, declared that Luigi was his beggar, and gave him a piece of silver before them all, in token. This seemed to satisfy the company, who then crept away in silence.
"And yet have I done right? Have I done right?' said the bishop, striding up and down the chamber. "I greatly fear I have condoned the sin of simony! I have spent Mother Church's substance among the unworthy! And yet, even so, your blood may be upon my head!' and he looked at Luigi doubtfully.
"Oh, your lordship need not take it so hard,' said Luigi, rubbing his arms. "All is safe enough now. I arranged about the dues and vails with Giuseppe while your lordship was discussing her state of grace with Marta. He's an honest fellow enough and his point is reasonable. One should not take a good place without money to keep it up. Had your lordship given me alms with your own hand this morning, our little difficulty would never have arisen. That was my fault--I assumed that your lordship knew.'
"Knew?' said the bishop. "What should I know of such things? And yet, God forgive me, I am a priest and I should have knowledge of evil.'
"It is merely a difference in knowledge,' said Luigi gently. "Now, your lordship, doubtless, has never been in a room quite like this before.'
The bishop stared at the damp walls and the mean chamber. He smelled the smell that cannot be aired from a room, the smell of poverty itself. He had never doubted his own experience before--when he had been first made a priest, he had gone on certain works of charity. Now it seemed to him that those works must have been rather carefully selected.
"No,' he said, "I have never been in a room just like this one.'
"And yet there are many of us who live in such rooms--and not all beggars,' said Luigi. He changed his tone. "That was a fine rousing sermon your lordship gave us on idleness and heedlessness this morning,' he said. "Hey, it brought the scudi forth from the good folks' pockets! An admirable sermon!'
"I am grateful for your encomiums,' said the bishop bitterly. He glanced around the room again. "Is there nought else I can do?' he said unwillingly.
"No, thank your lordship,' said Luigi, and his eyes were smiling. "I have a woman to cook my dinner--it is true she is a thief, but she will not steal from a cripple--and soon, with your lordship's patronage, I shall be able to afford a charcoal brazier. Moreover, my friends seem to have left me a sack. So, after dinner I shall say my prayers and go to bed to refresh myself for tomorrow's labor.'
I shall say mine, too, for I need them, said the bishop, though he did not say it to Luigi.
So that was how it began. Soon enough, the bishop's beggar was a familiar figure on the steps of the cathedral --one of the admitted curiosities of the town. He was well liked in his trade, for he always had a merry word or a sharp one for his clients-- and it passed around until "Luigi says' became a byword. The bishop became used to him as one becomes used to a touch of rheumatism. Other men had their difficulties; he had his beggar. Now and then it seemed odd to the bishop that he had ever thought of the beggars on the steps as a vague and indistinguishable heap of misery and rags. He knew them all by now-- blind Marta and Carlo, the dwarf, Giuseppe Double-Face, and Benito, the hunchback. He knew their ways and their thoughts. He knew the hovels where they lived and the bread they ate. For every week or so he would slip from his palace to visit Luigi's chamber.
It was necessary for him to do so, for, to him, Luigi represented the gravest problem of the soul that he had yet encountered. Was the man even a Christian? The bishop was not sure. He professed religion, he followed the rites of the Church. Yet sometimes when he confessed him, the bishop was appalled. Every sin that could ravage the human heart was there--if not in act, then in desire --and all told so gaily! Sometimes the bishop, angrily, would tax him with willful exaggeration, and Luigi, with a smile, would admit the charge and ask for still another penance. This left the bishop confused.
Yet through the years there grew up between the two men a singular bond. The bishop may have been heedless, he was not stupid. Very soon he began to realize that there was another Remo than the city he had come to first--a city not of lords and scholars and tradesmen and pious ladies, but a city of the poor and the ignorant, the maimed and the oppressed. For, as Luigi said, when one lay all day on the steps of the cathedral one heard stories, and anyone will talk to a beggar. Some of the stories struck the bishop to the heart. He could hardly believe them at first, yet, when he investigated them, they were true. When he was convinced they were true, he set himself stubbornly to remedy them. He was not always successful --pleasant sinners like the Church to keep its own place. Now and then he discussed his efforts with Luigi, who listened, it seemed to the bishop, with an air of perfect cynicism. His attitude seemed to be that it was all very well for a man like the bishop to concern himself about these things, but he was the bishop's beggar and, if other folk starved and died, it was none of his concern. This irritated the bishop inordinately and made him more determined than ever.
Gradually, he noticed, the composition of his table changed. There were fewer courtiers and scholars; there were more priests from the country, smelling of poverty and chestnut bread. They came in their tattered cassocks, with their big red wrists; at first they were strange and ill-at-ease at his table. But the bishop was able to talk to them. After all, were they not like the old parish priest that Luigi talked of so often? When the ceremony of his table disturbed them he saw to it that there was less ceremony. Luigi mocked him for this and told him bluntly what his richer clients were saying. The bishop rebuked him for impertinence to his spiritual director and persisted.
It is strange how time flies when the heart is occupied. In no time at all, it seemed to the bishop, he was a middleaged man with gray at his temples, and Luigi a man in his 30s. That seemed odd to the bishop; he did not know where the time had gone. He thought of it, one morning, with a sense of loss. He had meant to do many things --he was still ambitious. Now, when night came, he was often too tired to think. The troubles of many people weighed upon his heart--the troubles of the peasants in the hills, who lived from hand to mouth; the troubles of Domenico, the shoemaker, who had too pretty a daughter; the troubles of Tessa, the flower seller, whose son was a thief. When he had first come to Remo, he had not had all these troubles. He picked up a letter on his desk--a letter that had lain there for days--and, having read it, sat staring.
The dreams of his youth came back to him, doubly hot, doubly clear. While he idled his life away in Remo his brother and his friends had been busy. They had not forgotten him, after all. Cardinal Malaverni, the great sage statesman whose hand was ever upon the strings of policy, meant to pass by Remo on his way to Rome. The bishop knew the cardinal--once, long ago, he had been one of the cardinal's promising young men. There was a letter also from the bishop's brother, the lord--a letter that hinted of grave and important matters. The bishop almost sobbed when he thought how long both letters had lain unanswered. He summoned his secretary and set himself about an unaccustomed bustle of preparation.
It often occurred to him, sorrowfully, within the next few days, how foolish it ?? to leave one's letters unopened. The preparations went forward for the cardinal's visit, yet it seemed to him that they went forward ill, though he could not put his finger upon the cause. Somehow he had got out of the way of the world where such things go forward smoothly; he was more used to his country priests than to entertaining distinguished visitors. Nevertheless, he botched together a few Latin verses, saw to it that the hangings in the guest chambers were cleaned and mended, drove his choirmaster nearly frantic and got in the way of his servants. He noticed that these were no longer afraid of him, but treated him with tolerant patience, more like a friend than a master, and this irked him oddly. What irked him even more, perhaps, was Luigi's shameless and undisguised self-interest in the whole affair.
"Ah, your lordship, we've waited a long time for this,' he said, "but it's come at last. And everyone knows that a great man like Cardinal Malaverni doesn't come to a place like Remo for nothing. So all we have to do is to play our cards well, and then, when we move on, as we doubtless shall--well, I, for one, won't be sorry.'
"Move on?' said the bishop, satonished.
The beggar yawned.
"But how else?' he said. "I have been the bishop's beggar. When your lordship is made a cardinal I will be the cardinal's beggar. The post will entail new responsibilities, no doubt, but I have confidence in my abilities. Perhaps I shall even employ an assistant for my actual begging--after all, it is often drafty on the steps of the cathedral.'
The bishop turned and left him without a word. Yet what Luigi had said caused trouble and disquiet in his heart, for he knew that Luigi often had news of things to come before even the count of Remo had an inkling of them.
At last the great day of the cardinal's visit came.
Like all such days, it passed as a dream passes, with heat and ceremony and worry about small things. The Latin verses of welcome were unexpectedly well read; on the other hand, the choristers were nervous and did not sing their best. Two gentlemen of the cardinal's suite had to be lodged over the stables, much to the bishop's distress, and the crayfish for dinner had been served without sauce.
The bishop hoped that all had gone well, but he did not know. As he sat, at last, alone with his old friend in his study that overlooked the garden, he felt at once wrought up and drowsy.
This should be the real pleasure of the day, to sit with his old friend in the cool of the evening and renew contact with the great world. But the bishop was used to country hours by now and the feast had broken up late. He should be listening to the cardinal with the greatest attention, and yet those accursed crayfish kept coming into his mind.
"Well, Gianfrancesco,' said the cardinal, sipping delicately at his wine, "you have given your old tutor a most charming welcome. Your wine, your people, your guests--it reminds me somehow of one of those fine Virgilian eclogues we used to parse together. "Tityre, tu patulae recubans----''
"The choir,' said the bishop-- "the choir usually is----'
"Why, they sang very well!' said the cardinal. "And what good, honest, plain-spoken priests you have in your charge!' He shook his head sadly. "I fear that we do not always get their like in Rome. And yet, each man to his task.'
"They have a hard charge in these hills,' said the bishop wearily. "It was a great honor for them to see Your Eminence.'
"Oh, honor!' said the cardinal. "To see an old man with the gout-- yes, I have the gout these days, Gianfrancesco --I fear we both are not so young as we were.' He leaned forward and regarded the bishop attentively. "You, too, have altered, my old friend,' he said softly.
"Your Eminence means that I have rusticated,' said the bishop a trifle bitterly. "Well, it is true.'
"Oh, not rusticated,' said the cardinal, with a charming gesture. "Not at all. But there has been a change--a perceptible one--from the Gianfrancesco I knew.' He took a walnut and began to crack it. "That Gianfrancesco was a charming and able young man,' he said. "Yet I doubt if he would have made the count of his city do penance in his shirt, for his sins, before the doors of his cathedral.'
"I can explain about that,' said the bishop hurriedly. "The shirt was a silk one and the weather by no means inclement. Moreover, the count's new tax would have ruined my poor. It is true we have not always seen eye to eye since then, yet I think he respects me more than he did before.'
"That is just what I said to your brother, Piero,' said the cardinal comfortably. "I said, "You are wrong to be perturbed about this, Piero; it will have a good effect.' Yes, even as regards the beggar.'
"My beggar?' said the bishop, and sighed.
"Oh, you know how small things get about,' said the cardinal. "Some small thing is seized upon; it even travels to Rome. The bishop's beggar --the beggars's bishop--the bishop who humbles his soul to protect the poor.'
"But it was not like that at all,' said the bishop. "I----'
The cardinal waved him aside. "Do not hide your good works beneath a bushel, Gianfrancesco,' he said. "The Church herself has need of them. These are troubled times we live in. The French king may march any day. There is heresy and dissension abroad. You have no idea what difficult days may lie ahead.' He watched the bishop intently. "Our Holy Father leans much upon my unworthy shoulder,' he said, "and our Holy Father is beginning to age.'
"That is sore news for us all,' said the bishop.
"Sore indeed,' said the cardinal. "And yet, one must face realities. Should our Holy Father die, it will be necessary for those of us who truly love the Church to stand together-- more especially in the college of cardinals.' He paused and with a silver nutpick extracted the last meat from the walnut. "I believe that our Holy Father is disposed to reward your own labors with the see of Albano,' he said.
"The see of Albano?' said the bishop as if in a dream, for, as all men knew, Albano was an old and famous diocese outside the walls of Rome and he who was bishop of Albano wore a cardinal's hat.
"It might have a most excellent effect,' said the cardinal. "I myself think it might. We have clever and able men who are sons of the Church. Indeed. And yet, just at this moment, with both the French and the German parties so active--well, there is perhaps need for another sort of man-- at least as regards the people.' He smiled delightfully. "You would be very close to me as cardinal-bishop of Albano--very close to us all,' he said. "I should lean upon you, Gianfrancesco.'
"There is nought that would please me more!' cried the bishop, like a boy. He thought for a moment of the power and the glory, of the great, crowded streets of Rome and the Church that humbles kings. "I would have to leave Remo?' he said.
"Well, yes, naturally, it would mean your having to leave Remo,' said the cardinal. "Your new duties would demand it.'
"That would be hard,' said the bishop. "I would have to leave Luigi and all my people.' He thought of them suddenly--the lame, the halt, the oppressed.
"Your people, perhaps,' said the cardinal, "but certainly not Luigi. He should come with you by all means, as a living example.'
"Oh, no, no, that would never do,' said the bishop. "Your Eminence does not understand. Luigi is difficult enough as a bishop's beggar. As a cardinal's beggar, he would be overweening. You have no idea how overweening he would be.'
The cardinal regarded him with a puzzled stare.
"Am I dreaming, Gianfrancesco?' he said. "Or are you declining the see of Albano and a cardinal's hat for no more reason than tat you are attached to a beggar?'
"Oh, no, no, no!' cried the bishop, in an agony. "I am not in the least attached to him--he is my cross and my thorn. But you see, it would be so bad for him if I were to be made a cardinal. I tremble to think what would happen to his soul. And then there are all his companions--Giuseppe, the Hook, is dead, but there is still blind Marta, and Benito, the hunchback, and the new ones. No, I must stay in Remo.'
the cardinal smiled--a smile of exasperation. "I think you have forgotten something, Gianfrancesco,' he said. "I think you have forgotten that obedience is the first law of the Church.'
"I am five times obedient,' said the bishop. "Let our Holy Father do with me as he wills. Let him send me as a missionary to savages; let him strip me of my bishopric and set me to work in the hills. I shall be content. But while I have been given Remo, I have work to do in Remo. I did not expect it to be so when I first came here,' he said in a low voice, "and yet, somehow, I find that it is so.'
The cardinal said nothing at all for a long time.
Then at last he rose, and, pressing the bishop's hand, he retired to his own quarters. The bishop hoped that he was comfortable in them, though it occurred to him, in the uneasy sleep before dawn, that the chimney smoked.
Next morning the cardinal departed on his journey toward Rome without speaking of these matters further. The bishop felt sorry to see him go, and yet relieved. He had been very glad to see his old friend again --he told himself that. Yet from the moment of the cardinal's arrival there had been an unfamiliar grayness upon his spirit, and now that grayness was gone. Nevertheless, he knew that he must face Luigi--and that thought was hard for him.
Yet it went well enough, on the whole.
The bishop explained to him, as one explains to a child, that it did not seem as if God had intended him to be a cardinal, only bishop of Remo, and with that Luigi had to be content. He grumbled about it frequently and remarked that if he had known all this in the first place, he might never have accepted the position of bishop's beggar. But he was not any more overweening than before, and with that the bishop had to be satisfied.
Then came the war with the French, and that was hard upon the bishop. He did not like wars, he did not like the thought of his people being killed. Yet, when the count of Remo fled with most of his soldiery, and the mayor locked himself in his house and stayed there, shaking, there was no one to take over the rule of the town but the bishop. The very beggars in the streets cried out for him; he could not escape the task.
He took it with a heavy heart, under the mocking eyes of Luigi. With Luigi in his cart, he inspected the walls and defenses.
"Well, your lordship has a very pretty problem,' said Luigi. "Half a dozen good cannon shot and the city will be taken by storm.'
"I thought so, I feared so,' said the bishop, sighing. "And yet my people are my people.'
"Your lordship might easily compromise with the enemy,' said Luigi. "They are angry with the count, it is true--they thought they had him bought over. Yet it would mean but two scorehangings or so, and a tribute, properly assessed.'
"I cannot permit my flock to be harried and persecuted,' said the bishop.
"Well, if your lordship must die, I will die with your lordship,' said Luigi. "Meanwhile, we might set the townsfolk to work on the walls--at least it will give them something to do. And yet, there may be another way.'
So it was done and the bishop worked day and night, enheartening and encouraging his people. For once, all Remo was one, and the spirit and will that burned within it were the bishop's. Yet it seemed no time at all before the French sat down before Remo.
They sent a trumpet and a flag to demand the surrender of the city. The bishop received the young officer who came with the trumpet--a darkfaced man he was, with a humorous twist to his mouth. The bishop even took him on a tour of the walls, which seemed to surprise him a little.
"You are well defended,' said the Frenchman politely.
"Oh, no, we are very ill-defended,' said the bishop. "My good children have been trying to strengthen the wall with sandbags, but, as you perceive, it is rotten and needs rebuilding. Moreover, the count was badly created on his powder. I must speak to him of it sometime, for hardly a gun we have is fit to fire.'
The Frenchman's astonishment grew. "I do not wish to doubt your lordship's word,' he said, "but if those things are so, how does your lordship propose to defend Remo?'
"By the will of God,' said the bishop very simply. "I do not wish my poor people killed; neither do I wish them oppressed. If needs must, I shall die in their stead, but they shall go scatheless. Ere you hand one man of Remo, I shall take the noose from around his neck and put it around my own.'
"Your lordship makes things very difficult,' said the Frenchman thoughtfully. "My king has no desire to attack the Church--and, indeed, the walls of Remo seem stronger than your lordship reckons.'
Then he was conscious of a plucking at his sleeve. It was Luigi, the beggar, in his little cart, who, by signs and grimaces, seemed to wish the Frenchman to follow him.
"What is it, Luigi?' said the bishop wearily. "Ah, yes, you wish to show our friend the room where we store the powder. Very well. Then he may see how little we have.'
When the Frenchman rejoined the bishop, he was wiping sweat from his forehead and his face was white. The bishop pressed him to stay for a glass of wine, but he said he must return to his camp, and departed, muttering something incoherent about it being indeed the will of God that defended Remo.
When he had gone, the bishop looked severely upon Luigi. "Luigi,' he said sternly, "I fear you have been up to some of your tricks.'
"How your lordship mistakes me,' said the beggar. "It is true I showed him three of my fellow beggars --and they did not seem to him in the best of health. But I did not say they had plague; I let him draw his own conclusions. It took me four days to school them in their parts, but that I did not tell him either.'
"That was hardly honest, Luigi,' said the bishop. "We know there is no plague in the town.'
"We know also that our walls are rotten,' said Luigi, "but the French will not believe that, either. Men of war are extremely suspicious--it is their weakness. We shall wait and see.'
They waited and saw, for that night a council of war was held in the French camp and the officer who had come with the trumpet reported (a) that Remo was held in great force and strongly defended; (b) that its bishop was resolved to die in the breach; and (c) that there was plague in the city. Taking all these factors into account, the French wisely decided, after some 48 hours' delay, to strike camp and fall back on their main army--which they did just in time to take part in the historic defeat of the whole French invasion a week later. This defeat sealed for all time the heroic defense of Remo; for, had the part of the French army occupied before Remo rejoined their main body before, the historic defeat might have been as historic a victory for the French. As it was, all Italy rang with the name of the bishop of Remo.
But of all this the bishop knew nothing, for his beggar, Luigi, was dying.
As the French moved away they had loosed off a few cannon shot, more in irritation than for any real military purpose. However, one of the cannon shot, heedlessly aimed, struck the steps of the cathedral, and you may still see the scars. It also struck the cart wherein Luigi lay, directing his beggars at one task of defense or another. When the bishop first heard that his beggar was hurt, he went to him at once. But there was little that man could do but wait, and the waiting was long. It was not until seven weeks later that Luigi passed from this earth. He endured, indeed, till the messengers came from Rome.
After they had talked with the bishop, the bishop went alone to his cathedral and prayed. Then he went to see Luigi.
"Well?' said the dying man eagerly, staring at him with limpid eyes.
"His Holiness has been graciously pleased to make of me the first archbishop of Remo, placing under my staff, as well, the dioceses of Ugri and Soneto,' said the bishop slowly. "But I have the news from Cardinal Malaverni, and I may remain here till I die.' He stared at Luigi. "I do not understand,' he said.
"It is well done. You have stood by the poor in their poverty and the wretched in their hour of trial,' said Luigi, and for once there was no trace of mockery in his voice.
"I do not understand. I do not understand at all,' said the bishop again. "And yet I think you deserve recompense rather than I, Luigi.'
"No,' said Luigi, "that I do not.'
The bishop passed his hand across his brow. "I am not a fool,' he said. "It was well done, to humble my spirit. And yet, why did you do so, Luigi?'
"Why, that was my great sin,' said Luigi. "I have confessed many vain and imaginary sins, but never the real one till now.' He paused, as if the words hurt him. "When your lordship's coach rolled over my legs, I was very bitter,' he said. "A poor man has little. To lose that little--to lose the air on the hills and the springing step, to lie like a log forever because a bishop's coachman was careless --that made me very bitter. I had rather your lordship had driven over me again than taken me back to your palace and treated me with kindness. I hated your lordship for your indifferent kindness--I hated you for everything.'
"Did you so, Luigi?' said the bishop.
"Yes,' said Luigi. "And I could see that your lordship hated me--or, if not hated, loathed, like a crippled dog that one must be kind to without liking. So I set myself out to tease and torment your lordship--at first by being your beggar, then in other ways. I could not believe there would not come a moment when your lordship would turn upon me and drive me forth.'
He paused a moment and wiped his mouth with a cloth.
"Yes, I could not believe that at all,' he said. "But you were not to be broken, Gianfrancesco, my brother. The evil I showed you daily was like a knife in your heart and a burden on your back, but you bore the knife and the burden. I took delight in showing you how ill things went in your city--how, below the fair surface, there was misery and pain. And had you once turned aside from that misery and pain, I would have been satisfied, for then, bishop or no bishop, you would have lost your soul. Was that evil of me, Gianfrancesco?'
"Very evil in intent,' said the bishop steadily, "for, while it is permitted to be tempted, it is evil to tempt. And yet proceed.'
"Well,' said Luigi, with a sudden and childlike stare, "it did not work. The more I tried to make you a bad man, the better man you became. You would not do what was ill; you would not depart from your poor, once you had known them--not even for a red hat or a count's favor. You would not do ill at all. So now we have defended Remo, the two of us, and I am dying.' He stirred uneasily in his bed. "It is just as well,' he said, with a trace of his old mockery. "I told my uncle I would live to be a cardinal's beggar, but I am not sure that I would have liked it. I have been the bishop's beggar so long. And yet, from the first I have loved you also, Gianfrancesco. Will you give me your blessing now, on me and my work-- the blessing you denied me once?'
The bishop's face was wrung. Yet he lifted his hand and absolved and blessed Luigi. He blessed Luigi and his work in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost. When that had been done, a smile appeared on Luigi's face.
"A very fine blessing,' he said. "I must tell that to the Hook when I see him; he will be envious. I wonder is it drafty on the steps of heaven? A very fine blessing, your lordship . . . ten . . . scudi . . . for . . . Luigi.' And with that his jaw dropped and it was over. But the bishop knelt beside the bed with streaming eyes.
And all that, to be sure, was a long time ago. But they still tell the story in Remo when they show the bishop's tomb. He lies upon it, fairly carven in marble. But carved all around the tomb are a multitude of beggars, lame, halt and misshapen, yet all praising God. And there are words in Latin which say, "It is not enough to have knowledge--these also are my sheep.' Of the tomb of Luigi, the beggar--that no man knows. They say it was beside the bishop's but, in one war or another, it was destroyed and there is no trace of it now. Yet Luigi was an arrogant spirit; perhaps he would have liked that best.
Photo: "Are you declining the see of Albano and a cardinal's hat for no more reason than that you are attached to a beggar?'
Photo: The bishop became used to him. Other men had their difficulties; he had his beggar.
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|Title Annotation:
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|Benet, Stephen Vincent
|Saturday Evening Post
|Mar 1, 1985
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Dunstable Dubbers Volkswagen Club is organising a charity Christmas Bazaar on Sunday, November 29.
Members of the club are hosting the bazaar at Downside Community Centre, Suffolk Road, from 2pm till 5pm.
Children can visit Santa's grotto and there will be a raffle and craft stalls.
Charlotte Green, one of the organisers, said: "The event is free and everyone is welcome to come along, there will be lots of different things going on and any money we raise will go to Macmillan.
"As well as Santa's grotto we will have a tombola, face painting, bric-a-brac, cakes, cookies, mince pies and refreshments.
"I chose Macmillan because a friend of mine from Dunstable Dubbers recently had breast cancer and they helped and supported her a lot. I hope we can raise between £100 and £200 for the charity.
"The idea is that everyone has a great time, gets in the Christmas spirit and we can support Macmillan."
Dunstable Dubbers is made up of Volkswagen enthusiasts who regularly raise money for different local charities.
Last year the group raised £4000 for Keech Hospice Care and took presents for the children at the hospice.

subset: commoncrawl


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The Loire Valley adventure continues… as we made our way to the adorable town of Blois after Chambord. This wasn't initially on the plan but given its close proximity to Tours, our next destination after Orléans, it only made sense to travel through it while we still had a few hours of sunlight.
I fell in love with it instantly. It was everything I had imagined when I first started exploring this stunning region of the country online. It's incredibly quaint, feels old, is very lush and is really just beautiful. Entering the city is impressive as it is spread across two sides of the river bank divided by a bridge. Funny enough, we couldn't locate the Blois château on a map and were not able to see it from where we were (although it was literally just above us) until one woman pointed us in the direction of a long set of stairs that led straight to it. Unfortunately, we were too late for the château but we did get to appreciate it from outside giving us more time to enjoy the small-town vibe of the town and have an excellent dinner.
As we had to climb to get to it, the descent down the sloping street from the other side made for an impressive view of the château perched on a cliff as if a watch-dog guarding over the little city.
There is a Magic Museum just opposite the château. We were all starving so we missed out on that one but that's another main attraction of Blois if you are ever there!
If you get the chance to visit, dont miss this little gem, I adored it and make sure you have dinner in Le Clipper located in the main square of Blois. It may look casual but don't be fooled by its humble exterior, their food is just excellent!
If planning a trip to the Vallée de la Loire, you can read about my visits to Chambord (I) and Cheverny (III) for more background.


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Butter Pecan Turtle Bars are marvelous. Seriously, these luscious brownie-type bars are chocolaty and addictive. They're also pretty easy to make. The bars have a shortbread crust. Then they're topped with a layer of pecans. Butter and brown sugar is caramelized on top of the … [Read more...] about Butter Pecan Turtle Bars
Chocolate Sprinkle Cookies
Have I got a doozy of a cookie for you today. Chocolate Sprinkle Cookies. These delectable goodies start with my Best Sugar Cookies recipe. Then I add chocolate sprinkles to the batter. After that I roll the cookies in chocolate sprinkles for double the flavor. They are soft, … [Read more...] about Chocolate Sprinkle Cookies
Coconut Date Cookies
Happy Valentine's Day! I have a sweet treat for you today Coconut Date Cookies are really terrific. These oatmeal cookies have pecans, coconut and dates. They're a sweet, crunchy wonderful snack any time of the day or night. These particular cookies are not particularly … [Read more...] about Coconut Date Cookies
Oreo Cookie Dessert
Ok guys. Oreo Cookie Dessert will rock your world! No kidding. This is one of the best desserts I've ever eaten. It has a luscious Oreo cookie crust. The next layer is a half gallon of Blue Bell vanilla ice cream. The third layer is a homemade fudge sauce layer with walnuts. Then … [Read more...] about Oreo Cookie Dessert
Almond Toffee Bars
Almond Toffee Bars are absolutely spectacular. The bottom layer is like shortbread. Then the top layer combines toffee, coconut and almonds. After baking, the bars are sprinkled with powdered sugar. Yes, these bar-type cookies are so, so mouthwatering. We finally got through … [Read more...] about Almond Toffee Bars
Pumpkin Better Than Anything Cake
Oh, my gosh. Prepare yourself for one fantastic drool-worthy dessert! Pumpkin Better Than Anything Cake. Yep. This luscious poke cake uses a boxed yellow cake mix that's mixed with a can of pumpkin and pumpkin pie spice. After that's baked, holes are poked into the cake and a can … [Read more...] about Pumpkin Better Than Anything Cake
Coconutty Oat Bars
Coconutty Oat Bars are fabulous cookies that are delightfully chewy. These scrumptious cookie bars are filled with oatmeal, coconut, dates and pecans. While I make them frequently for the Christmas holidays, they can be made any time of year. We love the chewy texture of these … [Read more...] about Coconutty Oat Bars
Oreo Nutter Butter Cookies
Okay, can we just agree that Oreo Nutter Butter Cookies are sensational? Well, they are. These luscious "meltaway" cookies are filled with crushed Oreos, crushed Golden Oreos and crushed Nutter Butter Bites. They have chocolate. They have peanut butter. They have creamy vanilla … [Read more...] about Oreo Nutter Butter Cookies
Pumpkin Toffee Cookies
Pumpkin Toffee Cookies are sensational. These jewels have all the delicious flavors associated with pumpkin desserts. Cinnamon, ginger, cloves and pumpkin pie spice. But they have one thing more. Heath English Toffee Bits. Oh, yeah. The toffee bakes down into the top of the … [Read more...] about Pumpkin Toffee Cookies
Peach Thumbprint Cookies
Peach Thumbprint Cookies are awesome! Here's my final Thumbprint Cookie recipe for awhile. :) I made four different kinds this holiday season: Pumpkin Pecan, Lemon Curd, Blueberry and Peach. All of them turned out fantastic and each one was certainly drool-worthy. These luscious … [Read more...] about Peach Thumbprint Cookies
Pumpkin Pecan Thumbprint Cookies
More Thumbprint Cookies! Yay. These delectable Pumpkin Pecan Thumbprint Cookies are so perfect for fall, holiday or Christmas Cookie baking. Each cookie has a very small spoonful of Pecan Pumpkin Butter. If you haven't had your fill of pumpkin desserts yet, this will surely cure … [Read more...] about Pumpkin Pecan Thumbprint Cookies
Lemon Curd Thumbprint Cookies
Have I got a fabulous cookie for you today. Lemon Curd Thumbprint Cookies. I've wanted to make a version of these cookies for years. :) These mouthwatering cookies are absolutely terrific. They have just the right bite from the Lemon Curd to go with all the sweetness from the … [Read more...] about Lemon Curd Thumbprint Cookies
Blueberry Thumbprint Cookies
Blueberry Thumbprint Cookies are awesome. They're a wonderful holiday treat that everyone enjoys. I used delicious blueberry preserves from Maine that a friend gave me for Christmas a couple of years ago. I knew I needed to use up that jelly and thought this would be an excellent … [Read more...] about Blueberry Thumbprint Cookies
Caramel Chocolate Chip Blondies
Caramel Chocolate Chip Blondies are sensational. These luscious brownies include both caramel chips and chocolate chips. They are absolutely divine! These cookies start with one of my favorite Chocolate Chip Cookie recipes. But the addition of caramel chips makes them super … [Read more...] about Caramel Chocolate Chip Blondies
Butterfinger Chocolate Chip Blondies
Butterfinger Chocolate Chip Blondies will have you salivating after the first bite! No kidding. If you enjoy Butterfingers, you'll be like Pavlov's dogs at the first ding. :) These amazing brownies are filled with Butterfinger Baking Bits and chocolate chips. What's not to love … [Read more...] about Butterfinger Chocolate Chip Blondies


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At Drivers we stock a huge range of accessories for your car or van. From air-fresheners to roof racks and boxes we have you covered.
Some of our key products and manufactures we stock are below:
Need to carry a load of gear?
We have in stock a range of racks to fit most cars and vans, with or without rain gutters. We also sell a range of cycle carriers to carry one bike on the roof to three bikes on the back of your car.
We have in stock a great range of universal seat covers to fit most vehicles We also have waterproof seat covers – available for most vehicles, including single and double front seat covers, as well as universal rears. Floor mats are in stock. Choose from a variety of rubber or carpet mats. Will fit most vehicles.
Designed to make your driving environment safer and easier. Products to hold your mobile in place, compasses, clocks, jotting pads,
We keep in stock a wide range of car accessories and products to make your car smell fresher (we reckon to have the largest range of car fresheners in Jersey!), as well as making your car stand out from the crowd. We sell window tint film, sun shades , door guards, bumper protectors, replacement door mirror glass, etc. etc. – You'll just have to come in and see for yourself keep in stock the latest range of products from True Utility. These include the 'Trolley Dolly' – a really useful keyring attachment for when you are travelling. You simply stick it in to the coin slot in airport trolleys instead of a coin ! It is also a screwdriver…. There is also the 'Beer Hunter' – another really useful tool.
Looking to upgrade your car's music system ?
We now have access to a huge range of car audio, multi-media products, satellite navigation , and related products. Generally we can supply within 3 working days, if it is not in stock.
We can supply car audio from Pioneer, Sony, Kenwood, etc. Satellite Navigation from Tom Tom and Garmin.
We also have in stock Rollei action cameras action cameras
We have a range of bluetooth hands-free kits including the new Parrot Neo HD, which is one of the easist handsfree kits to set, offering HD quality sound. £65.00
Dash Cams
We now have in stock a couple of Mio dashcams – the MIVUE 528, and MIVUE 538 Deluxe
which offer 1080 full HD playback, with a 6 element glass lens. The 538 deluxe has GPS tracking, and speed camera detection.


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The Park on a Nice Day Is No Longer Like a Chicago Song/
Hello? Today was a nice day, and yet the park was a lonely place. Maybe because today was Sunday not Saturday?
Rachel Mackow is a photographer and writer who resides on a ridge in the New Jersey Highlands with her husband and son.
Search through my modern chicken scratch:
I'm a writer and photographer, observer and keeper of memories in this space, The Shagbark Speaks. In the other spaces of my life, which take most of my time, I am a wife, mother, native plant grower & natural lands restoration practitioner, and laundress.


text: I love being a families photographer. I have photographed Candra and Kengie when they were freshly engaged, their beautiful All Saints Chapel/Marbles Kids Museum wedding, Caleb's newborn session and now his one year old session. I am getting to watch them grow. These are the things that make me happy. This is what brings me joy, as a photographer.


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Odyssey PTG will be at Back to School Night to provide information and on-site signups for volunteers.
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I am amazed at the number of folks who profess Christianity but chose to flirt with sin. They don't actually cross the line but they dance on the edge. In other words, they see how close they can get to sin without getting burned. This is a very dangerous behavior because the bible tells us this will eventually draw us right into the middle of sin.
Psalm 1 says this, Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor stands in the path of sinners, nor sits in the seat of the scornful; but his delight is in the law of the Lord.
There is a very subtle progression in these verses that warn us about playing on the edges of sin. First, these verses caution us not to walk in the counsel of the ungodly. In other words, don't be enticed by sin in the first place. Stay clear and walk away. If you don't walk away while you can, the next portion of this passage says we will find ourselves standing in the path of sinners. You see, we were enticed by sin as we walked in the counsel of the ungodly and now we find ourselves stopped, standing and engaged in sin. Finally, this passage tells us if we don't choose to get away, we will find ourselves sitting in the seat of the scornful. We have now embraced sin.
By flirting with sin, by playing along the edges, we are beginning our walk down a path that will eventually lead us to sitting right in the middle of sin. We will follow the path described in Psalms. We will walk into sin. We will find ourselves standing in sin and eventually just sit down right in the middle of it. We have been enticed by sin, we have become engaged in the sin, and finally we find ourselves embracing the sin.
So what is the answer here? It's simple. Don't play around the edges of sin. Get away while you can and simply don't be enticed in the first place. Next time you are tempted by something that is not of Christ, remember to stop, turn around and go the other way. Do not be enticed. Do not become engaged in the sin. Don't embrace sin.
God has great plans for your life. Don't allow yourself to sit and get comfortable in the middle of sin and miss what God has planned for you.


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The 23rd Annual ShareLife Corporate Golf Tournament at Markland Wood Golf Club in Etobicoke will be held on Monday, June 4th. Last year, our Corporate Golf Tournament raised $55,000 in support of social service agencies in the Greater Toronto Area and Simcoe. Many of these agencies would struggle to exist without funding from ShareLife and our golf tournament sponsors.
TOURNAMENT PACKAGE: Green fee and power cart, Sleeve of golf balls and 3 drink tickets, Lunch (11:30AM), Dinner, Prizes, Raffle and Silent Auction
ONLINE REGISTRATION LINK: https://community.archtoronto.org/sl/sharelife-golf-tournament-2018
REGISTRATION DEADLINE: May 18, 2018
CONTACT: Harry McAvoy – Manager, Major Gifts & Corporate Campaigns (416) 934 3400 ext. 553 or firstname.lastname@example.com.


text: These days antibiotics are prescribed for just about anything. You have a cough? Well take some antibiotics! Your ear hurts, Sally? Oh no problem, just take some antibiotics. Oh no, little Joe has a boo-boo on his finger? Let's give him a Z-Pak just for good measure! Oh the insanity! While antibiotics are necessary for … Continue reading


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Protect the liver from oral aas – superiormuscle.com – bodybuilding forums acute posthypoxic myoclonus treatment
It is not often that oral anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) are discussed in studies. Certainly, thats not because they have disappeared from use by bodybuilders, athletes and others interested in building muscle. They are prominently mentioned in doping-scandal stories, prevalently used by drug-enhanced bodybuilders who purchase their AAS illicitly (i.e., illegally) and are often the gateway form of AAS used by those experimenting with AAS for the first time, due to the innate anxiety most people have about needles. anoxic brain injury Yet, there is little research published about oral AAS, as they are very limited in terms of approved indications (i.e., diseases or conditions that are acceptable reasons to treat with the specific drugs), and have recognized adverse (harmful) effects.
Oral AAS are known to be toxic to the liver if they are C17-alpha alkylated, which means that a side chain has been attached at a specific point on the molecule to protect it from being cleared or degraded.1,2 Potentially, they may cause tumors in the liver, including deadly forms of malignant cancers not just in frail people with chronic conditions, but in young, healthy bodybuilders.3,4 While many, possibly the majority of individuals can tolerate C17-alpha alkylated drugs, it appears that 20 percent to 40 percent will experience elevated liver enzymes in blood tests, even on the lowest replacement dose. The liver effect of oral AAS does not appear to be dose-related, but either does or does not occur. This increase in liver enzymes may be due to a backup in bile or drug-induced liver injury, resulting in tissue death.5
The hepatotoxic (meaning liver-injuring) effects of C17-alpha alkylated AAS are not fully understood, but appears to involve more than the effect of these AAS on processes involved in cellular maintenance, such as protecting the cell membrane, vital functions or antioxidant status.6 As well, oral AAS appear to interfere with the processing of cholesterol, and impede protective effects of glucocorticoids (e.g., cortisol).6,7 When cells cannot respond to injury, suffering worsens until it reaches a point where function deteriorates or even cell death occurs. In susceptible individuals, this may result in the promotion of a cancerous growth, much like oxidative damage appears to trigger cancer cells (e.g., sunburns in skin) or toxins from tobacco smoke in lungs.
For the bodybuilder who is committed to his/her choice to misuse oral AAS, bodybuilding lore has suggested a number of strategies to reduce liver toxicity. Some of these have sufficient science supporting these suggestions to merit discussion.
As the common injury is related to bile backup due to cholestasis meaning that the gallbladder gets sludgy and the bile is not secreted into the intestines, but backs up like bad plumbing strategies to reduce cholesterol or increase the bile acid content may be of benefit. The most effective may be the use of bile acid resin drugs, such as cholestyramine. This drug binds bile acids in the intestines, preventing them from recycling through the liver. While this may sound like it would worsen the situation, instead the liver sees the lack of bile acids as a signal to increase the production of new bile acids from cholesterol. hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy life expectancy This provides both a reduction in cholesterol within the liver, and an increase in bile acids that loosen the consistency of bile, making it easier for the gallbladder to secrete bile in response to a meal. Note, it is important not to be on a low-fat diet, as there is less of a signal to the gallbladder when dietary fat is low. Alternatively, bile acid supplementation, such as the use of ox bile extract, may offer relief, but does not offer the secondary benefit of lowering liver cholesterol.
The cell membrane is not only a wall that protects the insides of a cell, but is also the home for a variety of enzymes, receptors and transporters. If the cell membrane is damaged, then the entire cell is at risk. cerebral anoxia definition Early signs of membrane damage include an increase in various enzymes (e.g., LDH, ALT, AST) as the cell becomes leaky. Thus, providing the components that aid in membrane repair and support are vital. This includes phospholipids and antioxidants. Phospholipids are prevalent in a variety of common foods, such as egg yolk and soy lecithin. Thus, it is important to include these food sources in the daily diet. Membrane antioxidants include vitamin E, estradiol and even cholesterol. anoxic brain injury recovery stages However, many oral AAS reduce estradiol, as they are non-aromatizable. A study published in the journal Clinical Toxicology reported positively on the protective effect of a product called Compound N against elevations in enzymes associated with liver damage in AAS misusers.8 Compound N contains phospholipids and vitamins.
Cell death was noted in a test-tube study, and may be a consequence of what is called the integrated stress response. This is basically an overload of the protein-making function of the cell, resulting in bad protein output, like a factory putting out cars that wont start or even move. The production line halts, and the factory is shut down until the problem is solved. If the problem is unsolvable, the factory shuts down permanently. A surprising amount of research supports the potential for a product that is used by a number of AAS misusers to protect against this integrated stress response. This product is called TUDCA, the acronym for tauroursodeoxycholic acid. anoxic brain injury after cardiac arrest Acting as a chaperone, TUDCA prevents various stress responses from occurring, preventing the assembly line failure.9,10 TUDCA is being investigated in a variety of clinical conditions, and appears to be effective.11
Previously, the protective effects of membrane-bound antioxidants were mentioned. Antioxidants within the liver cell are also depleted with prolonged exposure to oral AAS. Among the most potent intracellular antioxidants is glutathione. While glutathione can be taken as a supplement, it is relatively inefficient, as it is digested and must be reformed inside the affected cell. A more practical approach in the prevention of oxidative damage may be supplementation with the precursor N-acetylcysteine (NAC), which is widely available as a dietary supplement.12,13 If pronounced oxidative damage is occurring, combinining glutathione and NAC may have a place if glutathione synthesis is impaired by the degree of damage in the affected cells. While little of the glutathione may be delivered intact, it may aid a liver that is suffering functionally from oral AAS exposure, or other causes of drug-induced liver injury (e.g., alcohol, NSAID drugs, iron overload, etc.). Milk thistle has long held a place as a liver-protectant in bodybuilding lore, and science appears to support this based on animal studies.13,14 In fact, it may be a more powerful option than NAC, though NAC is unquestionably of value in this setting. Berberine is another common supplement that may aid in protecting the liver from drug-induced liver injury.15
There is little doubt that bodybuilders are too often informed they have liver injury, as the lab test used to detect this is not liver-specific.16 In fact, the skeletal muscle releases the same enzymes, so following an intensive training session, it is not unusual to see an elevation in AST and ALT for several days after a single workout. Imagine if one trains daily or almost daily, the enzyme levels remain elevated to a degree that requires a bit more work to determine the cause. However, numerous drugs can cause drug-induced liver injury, and oral AAS are a well-known cause. The liver is a vital organ, and chronic damage may lead to fibrosis (scarring), necrosis (cell death) and even develop into tumors. Do not be falsely assured by the potential excuse of exercise being the cause of elevated liver enzymes, especially if oral AAS, excess drinking or other causes are present. brain anoxia symptoms Inform your physician of your lifestyle so he can order additional tests that are more specific to the liver, to assess its state of health.


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On Tuesday, May 1, 2018 at 1415 hours members of the Mantua Township Fire District were dispatched to the area of 359 Chapel Heights Road for a structure fire. Squad Company 2211, Tender 2214 and Brush 2215 responded to assist with a structure fire that extended to a pool deck and a large area of brush. Crews remained on location for approximately two hours without incident. The fire remains under investigation by the Washington Township Fire Marshal's Office and Gloucester County Fire Marshal's Office.
Units on Location: Chief 2201, Squad 2211, Tender 2214 and Brush 2215


text: in humor 27 Of The Most Unrealistic Things That Happen In Movies by Laura McNairy 10. 11. 12. 13. Page 3 of 7Previous 1234567Next Written by Laura McNairy Laura is a freelance writer for TFLN. She likes to write about what she knows best — dating, sex, and being awkward, but usually in the opposite order. She is the Assistant Editor and videographer for Peach Fuzz, a sex-positive nudie magazine in ATX.


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Four men from the north of the county have been arrested on suspicion of exploiting children online.
Officers from Northamptonshire Police's POLIT (Paedophile Online Investigation Unit) have carried out warrants across the county in a concerted week of activity.
Those arrested have all been released under investigation as forensic examination of their devices continues.
They are a 45-year-old from Wellingborough, a 37-year-old from Higham Ferrers, a 70-year-old from Irthlingborough and a 59-year-old from Desborough.
Police also arrested a 50-year-old man from Northampton and a 48-year-old man from Daventry.
The cases are not connected.
Det Insp Andy Rogers, who heads up the POLIT team, said: "Making and sharing indecent images of children is an extremely serious offence and the force has increased resources into bringing to justice those who choose to exploit children in this way.
"We use the latest, highly sophisticated digital investigative techniques to track down those who engage in this type of activity and anybody who does should expect a knock at the door from one of my officers carrying a warrant for their arrest.
"Along with our partners, we work tirelessly to safeguard and protect children.
"Policing this despicable crime is a priority for Northamptonshire Police and is treated with the seriousness it deserves.
"Anybody with any concerns about the safety of a child or with suspicions about somebody's online activity should call 101 or 999 in an emergency."


text: The SolePower work boot is currently only a prototype but it is designed to reduce the risk of injury or worse. The smart clothing technology industry is a rapidly growing one, despite the fact that virtually nobody is wearing any of it yet. The vast majority of the devices remain in their prototype phase. That said, many are becoming funded or have already achieved their funding and could be seen on store shelves in upcoming months and years. This is the hope of the creators of the SolePower work boot,…Read More


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There's Absolutely No Comparison!
Ranked in the top 1% percent of 1.2 million agents in the United States! Uniquely connected to the highest net worth clients in the world!
The Joe Schembri Team is recognized as one of the TOP 100 Teams for Coldwell Banker Real Estate Nationwide out of 1,400 teams!
We will not rest until your home is sold for the highest price!
Over 3,100 homes sold YTD!!!
Coldwell Banker is the Largest Real Estate Firm in the Bay Area!
Recently named the #1 Team for Coldwell Banker Real Estate Company for the San Francisco Bay Area Region in 2008-2018 & 2019 YTD.
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Allegedly infringing material will be removed promptly by our Copyright Agent provided that your claim notice includes all of the required information. If insufficient information is provided, our Copyright Agent may not process your claim. In the event we remove allegedly infringing materials that were provided by a 3rd party, we will immediately notify the party responsible for posting the materials that we removed or disabled access to the materials. We may also provide the responsible party with your e-mail address so that they may respond to your allegations.
We reserve the right to terminate, limit or suspend access to the website in the event of repeated infringing activity. If you believe repeated infringement is occurring, follow the above instructions to contact our Copyright Agent and include sufficient information to assist us in identifying evidence of the repeated infringement. Learn more about the DMCA here.
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Liz performs in community settings from libraries to theaters. Her family concerts often feature her musical partner Gordon MacFarland and other band members. Contact Liz to book a show! For school programs, Liz books through Young Audiences of Massachusetts.
Private parties and events at individual schools and child care centers are not listed here.
"Thank you so much for bringing your enthusiasm and musical talents to our concert series … The feedback I've received from staff and participants was very positive and we really appreciate all you bring to our library programming."
– Karen Dillon, Robbins Library, Arlington, MA
Event Information:
Sat01Aug20159:30 amWinchester Farmers' Market
Farmers' Market Music
Liz & Gordon MacFarland offer tunes for all ages in this beautiful grassy spot on the Town Common in Winchester center. Bring a blanket, come listen to music and support the market! http://www.winchesterfarmersmarket.org/


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This technique class will cover the ups and downs of Waltz...Literally. Learn the proper way to create rise and fall and the importance of Heel, Toe, Toe. Cat will work with you from the ground up! If you are experienced in the Waltz already this class will give you a chance to practice the foundational technique necessary for advanced dancing.
Offering the highest quality Dance Instruction in Denver and Lakewood
Click on each event for more information.
You can also call us at 720-502-3160 or email us.


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Yeah, when I talk about my native country of Honduras the issues of corruption and crime always come up. The seemingly endless poverty. The fact that almost nobody pays their taxes. The embarrassment of always having to be a beggar nation, having Honduran presidents and ambassadors traveling the world panhandling for more aid, more loans, more debt pardons.
Those are all huge problems that will take a long time to resolve. But really, if you ask me what is the one thing that holds countries like Honduras back and makes their situation untenable, almost hopeless, it would have to be machismo—that sick, medieval attitude of men toward women.
The degradation of women… treating them as objects, as possessions, as things worthy of abuse. That is one of the hallmarks of a Third World country. The United States has made great strides in overcoming this ugly sickness. Anyone who even remotely threatens to reverse this trend should never be allowed near a national stage, anywhere close to national power. It is an automatic disqualification.


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BRUSSELS (Reuters) - The European Court of Justice - the highest court of the European Union - issued on Friday an injunction against the implementation of Poland's new law on the Supreme Court, freezing any changes to the existing system.
Poland's Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki, asked by reporters on the sidelines of an EU-Asia summit if Poland received the ECJ's decision on the interim measures to freeze the implementation of Warsaw's Supreme Court overhaul, said:
"In the last hours... a notification arrived from the European Court of Justice, I can say that certainly after thorough analysis we will take a position."
The ECJ was not immediately available for comment.
Reporting By Jan Strupczewski


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Airport Police Taiwan have purchased a Simfox Pro system for Heimann. The system contains training content for CBS, HBS and Cargo and will be used to certify airport police officers at all of Taiwan's airports.
Renful spent the last week providing training to APT's staff in order for them to get the most out of the products and start delivering training to their workforce immediately.
With Simfox, APT will be able to provide advanced x-ray security simulation training to their screeners.
Simfox delivers simulators for all major x-ray machine manufacturers. The simulators use high resolution images taken directly from the x-ray machine and offer machine specific image enhancement and zoom functions. All this ensures APT will have the most realistic and advanced simulator available on the market.


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Breanna Stewart, Seattle Storm surge past Washington Mystics for WNBA title
- by Juana Turner
- in Sports
- — Sep 14, 2018
"She's victor, what else can I say", Auriemma said, smiling broadly as Breanna Stewart strolled around EagleBank Arena after the Storm's 98-82 win clutching the WNBA trophy in one hand and the Finals MVP award in the other.
Stewart saved her best for last and scored 30 points - a career high for the playoffs - on 11-of-22 shooting, including 4 of 5 three-pointers. She finished with 31 points and 14 rebounds, both team highs.
It was also reported that Mystics star Elena Delle Donne was a guest on the next episode of LeBron's HBO show 'The Shop.' Kristi Toliver had 20 points.
What took place on Wednesday night on the campus of George Mason University, in a green-and-yellow arena turned red-and-blue, would have been hard to imagine just two years ago. Playing with a bone bruise in her left knee suffered in Game 2, Delle Donne returned for Games 4 and 5 and while her scoring was down, her presence on the court was a boost for the Mystics.
Stewart was a unanimous choice to the all-WNBA first team, the league announced Wednesday, while fellow UConn graduate Taurasi of the Phoenix Mercury extended her own record with a 10th first-team selection. The great thing is we can still improve. The game, which saw Seattle overcome the Washington Mystics 98 - 82 for the sweep, was also up 33% from last year's Game 3.
Apple 2018 Event Recap: iPhone Xs, Xs Max, Xr, Apple Watch
The two phones are nearly identical in design and features, with the XS being a refinement of last year's phone. We know that the advanced custom OLED screen on the iPhone X was extremely expensive .
Apologetic Hugo Lloris lucky not to cause accident, says Mauricio Pochettino
Tottenham Hotspur manager Mauricio Pochettino has forgiven Hugo Lloris . 'He is punishing himself. "Now I need to pay like a man". Foyth has now returned to training, however, but Sissoko is not expected to resume training with the group again until next week.
Cuomo mailer: Nixon soft on anti-Semitism
Cuomo controls the state Democratic Party and recently transferred $2.5 million to its account for election-related expenses. Schneiderman in the wake of allegations he physically abused romantic partners, is the first woman to be attorney general.
Like Seattle's group of Stewart (24 years old), Natasha Howard (27) and Jewell Loyd (24), some of the Mystics' best players are young or just entering their prime. "I think that they are really, really good and I love watching them play".
The Storm's championship sparked an outpouring of civic pride from the likes of Seattle natives Isaiah Thomas and Bill Russell, the Boston Celtics legend, who ended his Tweet with a joyful proclamation: #WeRepS3attle. We feel like we've got a lot of young, great talent, and obviously this isn't how we wanted it to end, but it's an experience that we can grow from. Beyond the obvious, the circumstances of a venue change (thanks, Drake and Migos), the rise of the Washington Mystics in a short period of time has been nothing short of remarkable. The Mystics fared well enough without her in the regular season, ending with the league's fifth-most productive offense, but she was sorely missed when Washington was pitted against Seattle's polished sharpshooters.
Check out the brand new t-shirt - which honors the Storm's previous titles and their current roster - below. The club's first-ever trip to the WNBA Finals is even more impressive considering how much better the league is in 2018. She motivates me and in return, you want to give her something too.
Despite the misfires, Washington rallied from down 18 points to trailing 72-67 with 6:49 remaining. In the end, the Storm, who dominated the regular season, proved to be the league's best team. "This is probably going to be one of the most defining moments of my career", Bird said Wednesday night.


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- Mojo is a magical charm bag used in voodoo, which has transmuted into a slang word for self-confidence, self-esteem or sex appeal.
I'm determined to find ALL of it...starting right now. Not at the next meal, tomorrow, or Monday...right now.
Actually, there is no 'magic' to weight loss/being healthy/looking great in your jeans.
I just got sidetracked...tired...overwhelmed.
(My life isn't any harder or more complicated than anyone else...it's just mine)
In a way, I lost myself. It didn't happen all at once...it never does. (I've done this before)
May I share a few things I'm aware of today...it may take me awhile to really sort this out:
1) I wanted my children to be proud of me. In some way, I thought they might love or approve of me more if I were thinner. When in fact, I really need to love/care/approve of myself with the same intensity that I've always given to them...no matter what they say or do, or how they act.
2) I'm getting bored with my 'diet', and I'm really missing fruit. However, I know how to 'spice' up my food life again.
So in reality, I'm searching for myself.
(P.S....I've gained 7 lbs from my lowest since I started BFC. I'm a little teary, but not deterred)


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I love this. A surprising amount of punch for such a simple idea. When I first started watching, in fact, it seemed like an overly-simple idea; an idea that might look nice, but which wouldn't be able to generate any serious emotions impact or have any actual emotional heft.
I was wrong about that.
In a forgotten old penny arcade, a wooden doll is stuck in place and time. (Official music video for Jane Bordeaux's 'Ma'agalim'.)
It's not me that's progressing
It's just the time that's moving on
It's just another passing train
It's a further tightening rope
Attribution(s): Artwork, publicity images, and stills are the property of Uri Lotan, Yoav Shtibelman, and all respective creators and/or distributors.


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Solid Time
Jeff HinshawJuly 10, 2009 12:00 AM CDT
So you may be wondering, "What are those guys doing?! They haven't updated in ages! Come on! Get the show on the road!" First off, let me apologize. I've been very busy working on many different things. We have many videos planned and ready, I just have to get around to those. We also have a new feature for the site rolling around soon as well. But the biggest thing I've been working on; the thing that has me caught up the most is none other than Solid Time.
Solid Time is a movie that I have planned for almost two years. I've scripted, storyboarded, planned, planned some more, and did even more planning. And now that the planning is done, the filming has begun! That's right, I am now in the process of filming this approximate 100-130 minute movie. Let me tell you what this exciting film is about. It's a comedy about Father Time loosing control of time to an evil villain and the pointless, hilarious battle to restore time. So far, filming has been going somewhat great. Day 1 and 2 were great, but day 3 didn't go so well... You see, we were filming at this warehouse. The thing is, the people I got permission from didn't realize we were going to have thirteen people at this warehouse. At first they went with it, but later said that they were too worried someone was going to get hurt or someone would break something. So, they sent us home. Great... I had this whole filming schedule packed full. It's backed up to the first day of school, and I really don't want to be filming during the school year. But now, it looks like I have no choice. Great. That's just great...
Well, that aside, we have some amzing footage so far. There's some great stuff going on! And the video quality is awesome because of the brand new HD video camera I bought for filming! Thanks to this new video camera, not only will the movie look great, but all of Official Orange's new videos will be looking freakin' awesome! HD quality! That's right! So hope you guys are looking forward to that! As for now, I'm going to start working on posting the Mob Wars video and start working on that new site feature!


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Gem Over the Prairie
by Dan Glomski, senior educator at Aurora's Edgerton Explorit Center.
On Monday, August 21, 2017, the path of a total solar eclipse visits the continental United States for the first time in nearly four decades. Grand Island, located squarely within the path of the Moon's shadow, is a prime eclipse-viewing location.
A total solar eclipse ranks among the most spectacular events a person can witness in a lifetime. The Moon passes directly in front of the Sun, covering the solar disk. Day briefly turns into night – twilight, actually – before the Moon's motion around Earth begins to unveil the Sun, allowing direct sunlight to bathe the landscape once again.
Most people have seen nothing like this before. It's an incredibly dramatic, eerie event that can literally make the hair on the back of your neck stand up.
The eclipse path – approximately 70 miles wide – crosses the country from Oregon to South Carolina. This is the first time the Moon's shadow has traversed the United States. coast-to-coast since 1918. Millions of Americans are located either inside the path or within a day's drive, and with thousands of visitors coming from outside the United States. this is likely to be the most-viewed total solar eclipse in history.
Grand Island is an enticing location for eclipse viewers. The Moon completely covers the Sun for 2 minutes and 35 seconds, within six seconds of the event's maximum duration (in southern Illinois and western Kentucky). The city is easily accessible by road or air, and climate data favors viewers: cloud-cover statistics suggest the region has a 70% chance of clear skies for viewing the eclipse. And, should clouds threaten to spoil the show, eclipse chasers can use Interstate 80 and other roads to find sunny skies.
With the thousands of visitors likely to visit the region, plans call for educational activities and other events to be held during the weekend prior to the eclipse. "With an event as rare and spectacular as this, we're going to do everything we can to showcase central Nebraska," said Brad Mellema, Grand Island Convention and Visitors Bureau director.
Eclipse viewing will be held at the Stuhr Museum of the Prairie Pioneer, on the south edge of Grand Island and very close to the eclipse centerline. Stuhr Museum offers a lot of wide-open space and lots of parking.
Stuhr Museum is a tailor-made eclipse-viewing spot.
"Stuhr Museum is a tailor-made eclipse-viewing spot," said Mellema.
The next total solar eclipse visible from the United States occurs in 2024. Another total solar eclipse will not be seen from Grand Island until 2744.
"Take that Monday off and get a hotel room as soon as you can – if any are still left," Mellema said. An informational statewide eclipse website has been set up at NEclipse17.com.
Grand Island averages 225 sunny days a year according to the National Climatic Data Center. The odds of clear viewing from Grand Island are approximately 70-75%. Many people will believe they've seen a total eclipse before, or that a deep partial eclipse is close enough. However, the most spectacular eclipse phenomena (corona, surrounding twilight, etc) happens only during a total eclipse. The difference between a total eclipse and a partial eclipse is night and day – literally!
How Rare are total solar eclipses?
- Last total solar eclipse in Grand Island 22 April 1194
- Next total solar eclipse in Grand Island 31 July 2744
- Last total solar eclipse in Nebraska 30 June 1954
- Next total solar eclipse in Nebraska 3 May 2106
- Last total solar eclipse in continental U.S. 26 February 1979
- Next total solar eclipse in continental U.S. 8 April 2024
- Next total solar eclipse visible anywhere on Earth 2 July 2019 (South Pacific, Argentina)
- Average period of time between total solar eclipses in one spot 380 years
- Average period of time between total solar eclipses on Earth ~1.3 years (67 in the 21st century)
Related Links
Grand Island, 21 Aug 2017 (CDT)
11:34:20am, Partial eclipse begins
12:58:34pm, Total eclipse begins
1:01:09pm, Total eclipse ends
2:26:36pm, Partial eclipse ends
Totality: 2 minutes, 34 seconds
Eclipse weekend activities
Craft beer, locally-made sausages, and live music!
Star Party: Sherman Ranch
Vintage & Classic Wheels car show
Eclipse day activities


text: Cheryl's Sheep Wednesday, February 22, 2017 11:00 AM 1:00 PM 11:00 13:00 Google Calendar ICS This sheep is made with a foam egg base, covered with wool and needle felted. The head, ears and legs are wool. The eyes and needle felting make each critter ewenique! $25.00 includes all materials


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It's that long-awaited time of year when parents get to kick their kids out of the house again. August is back-to-school month, and for some lucky parents, "school" means "college."
That's the case for North Carolina Republican Rep. Ted Budd, who's sending his son Joshua off to Liberty University's School of Business. The father-son duo tag-teamed the move into Joshua's dorm room with help (or lack thereof) from an old colleague, former congressman and tea party favorite Dave Brat.


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Insuflon Subcutaneous Injection Port
The Insuflon is a soft, flexible Teflon catheter which is inserted into the skin for periods of up to 5 days. Thereafter all injections are given through the silicon sealing membrane at the end of the device. This completely eliminates the pain associated with injections, and ensures a more uniform dispersion of the drug by allowing infusion into a consistent location for each injection.
The soft fabric retaining pad secures the device in place and cushions the hub of the injector to ensure maximum patient comfort. There is a transparent 'window' which allows a view of the actual injection site to observe any incidences of leakage or irritation.
The Insuflon is particularly valuable to children or in any case where repeated needle insertions are undesirable.
i-Port Advance
The i-Port Advance is a new concept in injection port technology specifically for subcutaneous injections of insulin and drugs requiring similar administration patterns. It is unique in that it is incorporated into its own automatic insertion system, and will place the catheter firmly into the tissue with minimum discomfort.
The product is available with a choice of 6mm and 9mm lengths and uses a 27g introducer needle which is automatically retracted after insertion.
The top entry configuration for injection may be easier for many users.
The table below gives a comparison between the two systems to allow best choice to meet individual patient requirements.
Both products are available directly from Applied Medical Technology and can be supplied to individuals with their care team's approval. Individuals purchasing from us who are resident in the UK are exempt from VAT.
The Insuflon device is available through the NHS Supply Chain service if purchased by institutions, but neither device is currently on prescription.
Please contact us if you require any further information or samples for evaluation.
For UK pricing and delivery information please contact Applied Medical Technology Ltd.


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My Parents are COMINGGG!!!
It is Christmas Eve night and currently my parents are in the air en route to NEW YORK CITY! As in, my Dad is actually coming to visit too! Crazy right? I'm pretty excited and have a busy week planned for them so I will be back to blogging at the New Year. Enjoy your holidays everyone! :)