text:
Find a space with total darkness and slowly move your hand from side to side in front of your face. What do you see?
If the answer is a shadowy shape moving past, you are probably not imagining things. With the help of computerized eye trackers, a new cognitive science study finds that at least 50 percent of people can see the movement of their own hand even in the absence of all light.
"Seeing in total darkness? According to the current understanding of natural vision, that just doesn't happen," says Duje Tadin, a professor of brain and cognitive sciences at the University of Rochester who led the investigation. "But this research shows that our own movements transmit sensory signals that also can create real visual perceptions in the brain, even in the complete absence of optical input."
Through five separate experiments involving 129 individuals, the authors found that this eerie ability to see our hand in the dark suggests that our brain combines information from different senses to create our perceptions. The ability also "underscores that what we normally perceive of as sight is really as much a function of our brains as our eyes," says first author Kevin Dieter, a post-doctoral fellow in psychology at Vanderbilt University.
The study seems to confirm anecdotal reports that spelunkers in lightless caves often are able to see their hands. In other words, the "spelunker illusion," as one blogger dubbed it, is likely not an illusion after all.
For most people, this ability to see self-motion in darkness probably is learned, the authors conclude. "We get such reliable exposure to the sight of our own hand moving that our brains learn to predict the expected moving image even without actual visual input," says Dieter.
Tadin, Dieter, and their team from the University of Rochester and Vanderbilt University reported their findings online October 30 in Psychological Science, the flagship journal of the Association for Psychological Science.
Although seeing one's hand move in the dark may seem simple, the experimental challenge in this study was to measure objectively a perception that is, at its core, subjective. That hurdle at first stumped Tadin and his postdoctoral advisor at Vanderbilt Randolph Blake after they initially stumbled upon the puzzling observation in 2005. "While the phenomenon looked real to us, how could we determine if other people were really seeing their own moving hand rather than just telling us what they thought we wanted to hear?" asks Blake, the Centennial Professor of Psychology at Vanderbilt and a co-author on the paper.
Years later, Dieter, at the time a doctoral student working in Tadin's Rochester lab, helped devise several experiments to probe the sight-without-light mystery. For starters, the researchers set up false expectations. In one scenario, they led subjects to expect to see "motion under low lighting conditions" with blindfolds that appeared to have tiny holes in them. In a second set up, the same participants had similar blindfolds without the "holes" and were led to believe they would see nothing. In both set ups, the blindfolds were, in fact, equally effective at blocking out all light. A third experiment consisted of the experimenter waving his hand in front of the blindfolded subject. Ultimately, participants were fitted with a computerized eye tracker in total darkness to confirm whether self-reported perceptions of movement lined up with objective measures.
In addition to testing typical subjects, the team also recruited people who experience a blending of their senses in daily life. Known as synesthetes, these individuals may, for example, see colors when they hear music or even taste sounds. This study focused on grapheme-color synesthetes, individuals who always see numbers or letters in specific colors.
The researchers enlisted individuals from Rochester, Nashville, Fenton, Michigan, and Seoul, South Korea, but, in a lucky coincidence, one synesthete could not have been closer. At the time, Lindsay Bronnenkant was working as a lab technician for co-author David Knill, a professor of brain and cognitive sciences at Rochester.
"As a child, I just assumed that everybody associated colors with letters," says the 2010 Rochester graduate who majored in brain and cognitive sciences. For Bronnenkant, "A is always yellow, but Y is an oranger yellow." B is navy, C burnt orange, and so on. She thought of these associations as normal, "like when you smell apple pie and you think of grandma." She doesn't remember a time when she did not see numbers and letters in color, but she does wonder if the particular colors she associates with numbers derived from the billiard balls her family had going up. When she donned the blindfold and waved her hand in the experiment, "what I saw was a blur. It was very dim, but it was almost like I was looking at a light source."
Bronnenkant was not atypical in that respect. Across all types of participants, about half detected the motion of their own hand and they did so consistently, despite the expectations created with the faux holes. And very few subjects saw motion when the experimenter waved his hand, underscoring the importance of self-motion in this visual experience. As measured by the eye tracker, subjects who reported seeing motion were also able to smoothly track the motion of their hand in darkness more accurately than those who reported no visual sensation -- 46 percent versus 20 percent of the time.
Reports of the strength of visual images varied widely among participants, but synesthetes were strikingly better at not just seeing movement, but also experiencing clear visual form. As an extreme example in the eye tracking experiment, one synesthete exhibited near perfect smooth eye movement -- 95 percent accuracy -- as she followed her hand in darkness. In other words, she could track her hand in total darkness as well as if the lights were on.
"You can't just imagine a target and get smooth eye movement," explains Knill. "If there is no moving target, your eye movements will be noticeably jerky."
The link with synesthesia suggests that our human ability to see self-motion is based on neural connections between the senses, says Knill. "We know that sensory cross talk underlies synesthesia. But seeing color with numbers is probably just the tip of the iceberg; synesthesia may involve many areas of atypical brain processing."
Does that mean that most humans are preprogrammed to see themselves in the dark? Not likely, says Tadin. "Innate or experience? I'm pretty sure it's experience," he concludes. "Our brains are remarkably good at finding such reliable patterns. The brain is there to pick up patterns -- visual, auditory, thinking, movement. And this is one association that is so highly repeatable that it is logical our brains picked up on it and exploited it."
Whether hardwired or learned, Bronnenkant finds the cross talk between her senses a potent reminder of the underlying interconnectivity of nature. "It's almost a spiritual thing," she says. "Sometimes, yeah, I think to myself, 'I just got this sense from a billiard ball,' but other times I think that being able to cross modalities actually reflects how unified the world is. We think of math and chemistry and art as different fields, but really they are facets of the same world; they are just ways of looking at the world through different lenses."
See video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fNTOvMwbPsc
Story Source:
Materials provided by University of Rochester. Note: Content may be edited for style and length.
Journal Reference:
Cite This Page:


text:
When Wichita Public Schools Superintendent John Allison learned that, thanks to rising revenues, Kansas was projected to have a budget surplus of more than $300 million at the end of the year – the state's first surplus since the recession – he hoped that the legislature would use the money to restore the hundreds of millions of dollars that it had cut from education in the last three years.
From 2008 to the end of the current fiscal year on June 30th, Kansas will have slashed school funding by nearly $700 per student, a decline of more than 12 percent in inflation-adjusted dollars. In Wichita, the state's largest school district, those cuts came to about $60 million of its $600 million budget, Allison said, and translated into large-scale layoffs; the closure of five schools; the elimination of programs such as driver's education, art, and music; the curtailment of professional development for teachers; and the deferral of necessary maintenance to school buildings.
"We couldn't take another year like the last three," Allison said. When news broke about the surplus, "We thought, 'Finally, things are going to start getting back to normal.'"
But lawmakers in Kansas had different ideas. In the final days of the legislative session last month, they used the surplus to justify the largest tax cut in the state's history. Among other changes, the cuts reduce the top rate to 4.9 percent from 6.45 percent, and are projected to cost $3.7 billion over the next five years, converting this year's surplus into long-term budget deficits that could total $2.5 billion by 2018.
Meanwhile, Kansas's schools will receive a modest increase of $58 per student next year, an amount that Allison said "does not even meet inflation, and is a drop in the bucket compared with the cuts we've taken."
That has left Allison feeling betrayed. "Over and over, we heard from our elected officials that this was the worst recession since the Great Depression, and they had no choice but to cut school funding," he said. "We were told that once the economy improves, our funding would be restored. But this year, when they did have a choice, a very clear choice, they decided that tax cuts were more important than education."
Since education funding makes up the largest part of the state budget, Allison expects further cuts in coming years as state revenue falls. "That's going to mean more layoffs, more schools closed. The kids are going to feel it," he said. "The light at the end of the tunnel has suddenly disappeared."
"We have no choice"
When the recession hit, state revenues — made up primarily of sales and income taxes — declined dramatically, prompting deep cuts to state services. In at least 30 states, funding for K-12 education was lower in fiscal year 2012 than in 2008, despite growing student populations. States have also made deep cuts in health care programs and in higher education funding. State aid to local governments has declined, and state and local governments have shed more than 500,000 jobs since the beginning of 2009.
In state after state, politicians justified the large budget cuts on the grounds that the condition of the state budget made it temporarily necessary to reduce services.
For example, when Arizona was facing a budget deficit of more than $2 billion in 2010, state lawmakers closed the budget gap by tightening eligibility requirements for Medicaid — eliminating health insurance for 300,000 people — and by ending a state preschool program and cutting funding from K-12 education.
"We can't spend what we don't have," Bob Burns, then the president of the Arizona State Senate, said at the time. "The choices were education and health care, because to even get us close to being balanced, we had to go where the money was, and the money is in education and health care."
But when revenues increased…
But state income and sales taxes, which were quick to decline during the recession, have also improved relatively quickly in the recovery. According to the Census Bureau, state revenues were beginning to improve by the middle of 2010 and continued to rise last year. Rising revenues have meant that at least 25 states, including Kansas, are projected to finish their current fiscal year (ending in June) with a budget surplus, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures.
Now that states do have a choice about their spending priorities, the question in state legislatures around the country has been, "What to do with the surplus?"
Because of the size of the budget cuts over the last three years, many advocated for states to restore — or "backfill" — funding to programs that had been cut.
"Most states haven't backfilled the cuts they made to education, state services and local governments," said Elizabeth McNichol, a senior fellow at the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, a think tank in Washington. "People are still hurting. States should look at rising revenue as an opportunity to give them some relief."
Additionally, several experts pointed out that, while sales and income tax revenues are rising, property tax revenues have not yet begun to recover. Property tax revenues are the largest source of funding for most local governments, and school districts depend heavily on those revenues, as well.
Because the property values are generally not assessed every year, property tax revenues continued to rise even as property values crashed around the country in 2008. As assessments began to reflect those declining values, however, property tax revenues started to decline. Total property tax collections by state and local governments fell by more than $2 billion from 2010 to 2011, according to the Census Bureau, and experts believe that is only the start. (See sidebar.)
Lucy Dadayan, a senior policy analyst at the Rockefeller Institute of Government, which analyzes trends in state and local revenues, said that while states may be beginning to recover, local governments and school districts may not yet have hit bottom.
"Because it takes states three to five years to do full reassessments, I expect property tax revenues to continue to fall well into 2013," she said. "That may mean even further budget cuts at the local level next year." (See chart showing year-over-year changes to the revenue of cities from 2004 through 2011.)
Most local governments also receive a significant portion of their funding from their states: nationally, state aid makes up about a third of local government revenues. But according to a report released last week by the Pew Charitable Trusts' American Cities Project, from 2009 to 2010, state aid to local governments was cut in the vast majority of states. That decline marked the first time since 1980 that state aid and property tax revenue fell simultaneously, according to Pew.
It appears as though those lost funds have not been restored in most states, even as demand for services in local governments continue to rise. That disjunction has led many experts to advocate for states to increase funding to their towns, cities, and counties to help fill the revenue gap in the coming year.
But instead of either restoring cuts in state services or increasing aid to local governments and school districts, several state legislatures are choosing to use their surpluses to cut taxes. Besides Kansas, at least seven other states have passed bills that cut taxes and reduce revenue in future years, and several more are still considering doing so.
"We have these three factors: huge state budget cuts in recent years, property tax revenues just starting now to show a decline, and state lawmakers seeming to respond to this by passing tax cuts," said Matthew Gardner, the executive director of the liberal-leaning Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy, which tracks state and local tax policy. "If you're looking at those three developments and asking yourself how they can all make sense together, the short answer is that they can't."
Kim Rueben, a public finance economist with the Tax Policy Center, agreed.
"States with a little money to play with have a huge number of worthy ways to use it," she said. "That they are choosing to cut taxes makes you wonder if they even have any kind of long-term plan."
Other priorities
The states that have already passed tax cuts, or have proposals to do so pending, range from Arizona to Michigan, Maine to New Jersey, and Nebraska to South Carolina. The nature of the tax cuts varies, as well. Some will have a relatively small fiscal impact, while others will significantly affect the state budget outlook for many years to come.
But in every state, critics were quick to identify other critical spending priorities that the legislature has subordinated to cutting taxes.
Restoring funding to education was the first priority for many. Indeed, tax cuts were proposed in several of the states that have cut education funding the most during the last three years.
South Carolina, which will have a surplus this year of nearly $1 billion, has cut K-12 education funding by over 24 percent since 2008, the most of any state. The legislature has proposed several tax cuts this year, including one that would reduce the income tax rate on small businesses by five-tenths of a percentage point each year for four years, ultimately bringing the rate from five percent to three percent, at a loss of $65 million a year. Another bill, which Governor Nikki Haley has pushed, would consolidate some personal income tax brackets, reducing revenue by a further $78 million.
"I don't understand how anyone could argue that this a good time for a tax cut," said Democratic state representative Seth Whipper. "After all the money that we've taken away from schools, furloughing teachers, deferring repairs, what sense does it make to give some people $50 in tax cuts?"
"Education was very underfunded before the recession in this state," said Holley Ulbrich, a distinguished scholar at the Strom Thurmond Institute of Government and Public Affairs at Clemson University in South Carolina who has long studied the state's education policy. "Now, we're at the level we were at in the nineties. And that's because every time there's an increase in revenue, rather than catch up on where we've fallen behind, the state wants to give it back" in the form of tax cuts.
Critics in other states argued that the legislatures should use budget surpluses to restore funding to state services that have been cut or eliminated.
Arizona, for example, eliminated more than 300,000 people from its Medicaid roles in 2010, became the first state to eliminate its Children's Health Insurance Program — thereby leaving nearly 47,000 low-income children without coverage — and also dramatically reduced mental health services.
Arizona will end the fiscal year with a budget surplus of at least $500 million. But state Republicans, who control both legislative houses and the governor's office, have passed tax cuts in both of the last two legislative sessions, most of which will go into effect in 2014. In 2011, lawmakers passed a package of cuts that, among other things, will reduce the corporate income tax by a third. The total package will mean $538 million less revenue over the next ten years. This year, the state supplemented those cuts with further cuts in business taxes, and a 25 percent reduction in individual income tax on capital gains, amounting to nearly another $100 million in lost revenue.
"These cuts are coming directly at the expense of the people of this state," said Arizona State Senator Steve Gallardo. "Giving money away to businesses when there are thousands of people who now have to resort to going to the emergency room because the state took their health insurance away shows you something about the priorities of our legislature."
And in other states, local officials who are seeing their property tax revenue drop are asking state lawmakers for help.
In New Jersey, where state aid to local governments was slashed over the last three years, Governor Chris Christie is now proposing to cut income taxes by 10 percent, even though the state's projected $588 million surplus is disappearing as tax collections come in under expectations.
In Maine this year, the legislature simultaneously reduced some funding for local governments and passed the largest tax cut in the state's history. "You can't simultaneously say we don't have money, and then give tax breaks to people that reduce state revenues," said Portland Mayor Michael Brennan.
These states are not alone (see bottom box on the plight of Hillsborough County, Florida).
Broken promises
When the budget cuts were enacted in 2009, 2010, and 2011, many state officials justified them by claiming that, due to the loss in state revenue, there was little choice but to reduce services, school funding, and aid to local governments.
In Oklahoma, before lawmakers voted to cut the state budget by 10 percent last year, a spokesperson for Governor Mary Fallin said, "The reality of the budget situation is that every agency is going to have to find ways to tighten its belt and save money."
As Florida lawmakers proposed cutting public school funding by $455 per student, State Senator David Simmons said, "No one wants to go home cutting school funding, but we've run out of options."
Now that states are using surplus revenues to fund tax breaks instead of reversing those cuts, however, such promises ring hollow to many who had reservations about the cuts in the first place.
"We heard all of this rhetoric about shared sacrifice," said Jeff Clemens, a Democratic state representative in Florida. "And we sacrificed. Students, the poor, seniors all sacrificed. And now, when the state could give them a break, we're giving billions of dollars to businesses that didn't have to sacrifice at all."
Hillsborough County, Florida: "We can't take it anymore"
In Hillsborough County, Florida, which includes the City of Tampa, budget manager Tom Fessler said that property tax revenue has declined by 30 percent since its peak in 2007. At the same time, funding from state revenue-sharing has also declined, meaning that the county has been forced to eliminate 1600 positions and reduce a range of services, from health care to after-school programs..
"We were hoping that this would be the last year that property tax revenue would fall," Fessler said. "Unfortunately, we're still projecting decreases into next year."
But no help will be forthcoming from the state government. Instead, state lawmakers enacted a package of tax cuts this year, including a cut in the corporate income tax, which will cost more than $1 billion over the next three years.
"That's going to put pressure on their budget, and so instead of asking them to help us, the cities and counties are now just asking them not to shift services onto our backs," Fessler said.
Next year, Fessler anticipates further cuts as revenue continues to fall. "We've already cut out all the fat and we're now at the bone," he said. "If we cut one more dollar, our residents are going to feel that."
Even some Republican state officials have been taken aback by the decisions to cut taxes before restoring some of the funding that has been cut.
"I really believe that we did not have a choice but to cut funding in the worst of the recession," said state representative Charlie Roth, a Kansas Republican. "But this year, we did have a choice, and the choice we made was to give away money instead of re-investing in our children. That makes me doubt how sorry my colleagues were about the cuts in the first place."
Remapping Debate asked several state Republicans how they can justify enacting tax cuts during this session in light of their supposed reluctance to cut funding in past years.
Arizona State Representative Victor Williams said of proposed education cuts in 2010, "The good choice [versus] the bad choice doesn't exist anymore. They're all poor choices."
When asked for this article why he did not choose to restore some of that funding this year, Williams said, "Because we are not out of the woods by any measure."
And what about the money for tax cuts? "We think of [the cuts] as economic development," he said, "and that's our priority right now." (See bottom box titled "Rationales for further tax cuts.")
In 2011, when Kansas Governor Sam Brownback cut more than $50 million from public schools, he said, "I wish we didn't have to do this. It's been difficult, but it's something we need to do."
Remapping Debate asked Brownback's spokesperson, Sherriene Jones-Sontag, why, if he wished not to make the cuts in the first place, the Governor chose to reduce taxes this year instead of restoring those spending reductions, but the only answer she gave was that, "The Governor believes that the state government should live within its means."
A new normal?
Other Republican advocates of tax cuts in the states were more forthright about their ultimate objectives.
Tommy Stringer, a Republican in the South Carolina House of Representatives, agreed. "Those who are calling for more money may be disappointed," he said. "They're assuming that we're in 2007. But 2008 established a new baseline for everything, and we aren't going back there."
Owen Donohoe, a Republican state representative in Kansas, said that he saw the income tax cuts there as a step on the path to abolishing the tax altogether. "The faster we can get those rates to zero, the better," he said.
Rationales for further tax cuts
Aside from fulfilling the goal of shrinking the size of governments, the primary justifications used for tax cuts around the country has been the belief that the cuts will improve the economic climate, luring businesses to low-tax states, thereby creating jobs and, it is hoped, greater revenue from the taxes that remain. "It is my fundamental belief that when you cut taxes, you increase revenue," said Owen Donohoe, a Republican State Representative in Kansas.
Thus, many advocates of tax cuts do not accept the projected fiscal impacts of the cuts from independent legislative analysts. The evidence for their position that cutting taxes will actually increase revenue, however, is sparse. In fact, there is substantial evidence to the contrary, including a recent, comprehensive analysis of state fiscal policy by economists at Tulane University that found tax and spending cuts in states are actually associated with lower economic growth.
According to Kim Rueben of the Tax Policy Center, the claims of these Republicans are examples of "supply-side economics," a doctrine that gained prominence during the Reagan Administration, but has since been rejected by most economists and budget analysts. "I don't understand how 30 years later, people still believe that cutting taxes increase revenue," she said. "I don't want to impugn their honesty, but if they truly believe this, then we are not looking at the same evidence."
Kim Rueben pointed out that another common justification for the tax cuts has been the perceived need to compete with bordering states that have lower tax rates. Lawmakers in Oklahoma and South Carolina, for example, said that their states were uncompetitive with states like Texas and Florida, which have no income tax.
What Reuben called the "beggar thy neighbor philosophy" has also been followed by the conservative American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC), a partnership of corporate leaders and like-minded state legislators, in crafting "model legislation" for adoption in the states. Several of the lawmakers who proposed the largest tax cuts in the last legislative sessions were members of the organization. ALEC's analysis, too, has been fiercely challenged by the Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy and others.
"Beggaring thy neighbor is not a long-term economic strategy," Rueben said. "It is not building new industries and creating new jobs. You're just giving the businesses that are already there a present."
Though he firmly believes that the tax cuts passed this year will actually lead to higher revenues, an assessment not shared by many independent analysts, he admitted that if that were to happen, he still wouldn't use that increased revenue to backfill the cuts that have been made since the recession.
"Then we would be able to afford more tax cuts," he said. "I'd like to make this government as small as I can."
Donohoe characterized the current level of services being provided in Kansas as "adequate," an assessment shared by several Republican legislators in other states. John Kavanagh, who sits on the appropriations committee in the Arizona House of Representatives, said that he does not think the cuts there have done very much harm.
"It doesn't seem to me that they've caused people to struggle that much, so I don't see why we should be spending more" he said.
But Scott Smith, the Republican Mayor of Mesa, Arizona, disagreed. "Some of our state leaders seem to believe that when they cut programs, the need for those programs disappears, too," he said. "It doesn't disappear. When you cut funding for homeless veterans, those veterans are still there."
Smith pointed out that while state legislators have the ability to "abdicate" the responsibility for delivering services onto local governments, local governments have no such option. "We are the last line," he said. "If we're not providing services, then people aren't getting them, period." (See bottom box on giving local governments more flexibility to raise revenue.)
But several state lawmakers said that wasn't their problem. "It isn't the state's responsibility to bail out the cities and towns," said Arizona Representative Victor Williams. "They need to figure this out on their own."
What's next?
Smith hopes that as state revenues increase while local governments continue to make cuts in necessary services in coming years, it will prompt a more productive discussion about what the government is supposed to do. "When you're making cuts of the size we've seen here, you're fundamentally changing the understanding of what our responsibilities are. We need to step back and ask, 'what are the basic functions of government?' Then we can fight the battles over additional revenue."
Florida State Representative Jeff Clemens agreed. "These tax cuts are obviously a strategy to 'starve the beast,'" he said. "But I've lost track of who the beast is. Public education, teacher salaries, parks and roads, public safety? Is that the beast?"
As this legislative session comes to a close, some Republican lawmakers are already gearing up for next year's fights. In Oklahoma, several proposals to cut taxes were introduced this year, including one that would gradually eliminate the income tax altogether. In the end, however, none of the proposals passed before the session ended, as lawmakers could not agree on how much to cut taxes, or for whom.
When asked whether he believes that the fight will continue next year, Republican State Representative Don Armes laughed. "Oh, don't worry. This isn't over. We'll be back."
More options for local governments?
In addition to cutting the funding to local governments, many states have placed restrictions on the ability of those local governments to raise their own revenue. Some states, like New Jersey and Indiana, have instituted restrictions on the amount that local governments can raise property taxes each year. Remapping Debate has previously reported on how property tax caps have forced cities to make deep cuts in essential services like public safety as property tax revenue falls. Other states, such as Michigan, have banned municipal governments from levying sales or income taxes without state approval.
"If state governments are going to cut funding to cities, the least they can do is allow them the flexibility to raise their own revenues," said Christopher Hoene, director of the Center for Research and Innovation at the National League of Cities.
In some states the restrictions also apply to school districts, which are often otherwise empowered to levy property taxes to fund their operations. In Arizona, for example, the legislature has restricted some districts from raising property taxes.
David J. Peterson, the superintendent of the Scottsdale Unified School District, said that because the district is not able to raise its own property taxes, even through a direct referendum, he has had to fire 100 teachers over the last three years. Additionally, a one-cent sales tax increase that was put on the ballot by voters in 2010 — part of which funds local governments and school districts — is set to expire in 2013. Because state lawmakers consistently refuse to raise revenues, Arizona residents are currently gathering petitions to put an extension of the tax on the ballot in November.
"If they are not successful in passing that extension," Peterson said, "we will be in deep, deep, major trouble."
We need to update you on where Truthout stands.
To be brutally honest, Truthout is behind on our fundraising goals for the year. There are a lot of reasons why. We're dealing with broad trends in our industry, trends that have led publications like Vice, BuzzFeed, and National Geographic to make painful cuts. Everyone is feeling the squeeze of inflation. And despite its lasting importance, news readership is declining.
To ensure we stay out of the red by the end of the year, we have a long way to go. Our future is threatened.
We've stayed online over two decades thanks to the support of our readers. Because you believe in the power of our work, share our transformative stories, and give to keep us going strong, we know we can make it through this tough moment.
If you value what we do and what we stand for, please consider making a tax-deductible donation to support our work.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
The Secret Beyond Matter
Darwinist Propaganda Techniques
All Superstition will Vanish in the Face of Truth
Every superstitious religion will inevitably fail. This is an immutable law of Allah. No matter how successful they may appear, no matter how much dominion they enjoy, no matter how many people they may influence and no matter how much success they appear to enjoy, all superstitious faiths will inevitably fall. This law of Allah never changes.
The Darwinists have failed to comprehend this great secret of Allah's. They never believed that Allah will inevitably inflict defeat on every perverse idea. They imagined that the transitory victory bestowed on them by Allah was a gain and a superiority. They boasted of this false victory and never foresaw that they would one day be revealed as frauds.
Yet what they never foresaw or expected suddenly befell them. They began to watch their own defeat in complete amazement. They were unable to understand how it had happened. They were at a loss to understand how the theory of evolution, protected under law in all countries, taught in schools and imposed on professors, supported by virtually all the major press and backed with a budget of millions of dollars could have been swept away like this. They failed to comprehend how it was that the fossils completely refuting evolution they had so carefully kept hidden away could suddenly have emerged into the light of day at a time when evolution was so closely protected under national laws, and how the fact that not even a single protein can form by chance had come out into the open. They were stunned to see that the Darwinist dictatorship could no longer protect them.
That huge defeat meant the end of the demagoguery and propaganda that were Darwinists' sole prop. Darwinists probably never imagined that the day would come when they would have to abandon their only means of deception. They never expected that their lies and deceptions based on mass conditioning through the press, and through pressure and imposition, would ever be exposed. They probably never dreamed that all their trickery would one day be unexpectedly exposed.
The Darwinists now have no way back. The true nature of their deceptive claims that "The missing link has been found", or "The missing link has been observed" has now been revealed. A great many people have now realized that evolution is a hollow fraud, devoid of any evidence. Darwinists can use whatever propaganda methods they like, and manufacture whatever false evidence they see fit and depict that as the truth, but they will never be able to go back to their days of glory. The Darwinist deception is finally at an end. This period we are living in, when Darwinists are desperately making a last stand to keep their deception alive, will witness a mighty defeat for them. There is another very important point here that must not be forgotten. It is still not too late for Darwinists. They can still turn away from, and make up for, all their errors. The time has come for Darwinists to realize that all power lies with Almighty Allah, and that whatever Allah ordains will definitely come about. This will be of great benefit to them and allow them to live honorable lives in this world and in the hereafter. It must not be forgotten that no matter how much pride they have in this world, no matter how much they wage an illegitimate struggle against right and truth (surely Allah is beyond that), whatever our Lord Allah ordains is what will happen. Darwinism will absolutely come to an end in this century, and whether or not Darwinists want to see it, the true faith of Allah will rule the world. Allah's promise is the Truth, and the Truth will certainly be made good. Allah reveals in verses:
Say: 'Truth has come and falsehood has vanished. Falsehood is always bound to vanish.' (Surat al-Isra', 81)
Yes, everything in the heavens and earth belongs to Allah. Yes, Allah's promise is true but most of them do not know it. (Surah Yunus, 55)
So remain steadfast. Allah's promise is true. Ask forgiveness for your wrong action and glorify your Lord with praise in the evening and the early morning. Certainly those who argue about the Signs of Allah without any authority having come to them. (Surah Ghafir, 55-56)
Say: 'The Truth has come. Falsehood cannot originate or regenerate.' (Surah Saba', 49)
They said "Glory be to You!


text:
Younger British Guy Takes An Uncut Cock Up The Ass Bareback For The First Time
Here's a hot new release from UK Naked Men for your weekend masturbatory pleasure. Mickey Rush is a younger handsome guy with a nice bubble butt who needs someone to teach him the joys of gay sex. Rado Zusila is an older guy who is the perfect teacher for Mickey — he is firm but fair and knows his way around a hot ass. Mickey has just turned 20 years old and has dreamed about having sex with another man for years. Rado starts by teaching him the proper way to suck a big uncut cock. He pulls his big uncut cock out of his trousers and instructs Mickey exactly what to do. Apparently he does a good job because Rado gets a big boner in no time at all. After the hot cock sucking, Rado bends the boy over the desk and gently but firmly slides his big uncut cock into Mickey's virgin ass. It's the first time anything has ever went into Mickey's ass and it hurts like hell, but he doesn't want to disappoint his teacher so he just grins and bears the pain. Finally, when Rado is all the way inside of him and his ass has loosened up, Mickey starts enjoying the raw cock inside of his ass. Rado starts thrusting his big uncut cock in and out of the virgin ass, while Mickey enjoys the pleasure of an older masculine man fucking his hole. Mickey is ready to shoot his load, so the teacher pulls his cock out of the boy's ass and tells him to open his mouth and take his load! Mickey does as he is told and gets his first taste of another man's hot load of cum! Fucking hot!


text:
[Pub.98TuI] Download :
Closing Down Heaven PDF
by Lesley Choyce : Closing Down Heaven
ISBN : #0889955433 | Date : 2016-10-26
Description :
PDF-dd8ab | In this whimsical free-verse novel, young Hunter quite literally propels himself out of this world and into the next after pushing his bike just a little too far. In fact, he flies right off a cliff only to awaken in a place called Heaven. Here he meets a compelling young friend named Trinity. From this point on, his mission is to love and protect her and all the while, find a way back to life o… Closing Down Heaven
Download eBook Closing Down Heaven by Lesley Choyce across multiple file-formats including EPUB, DOC, and PDF.
PDF: Closing Down Heaven
ePub: Closing Down Heaven
Doc: Closing Down Heaven
Follow these steps to enable get access Closing Down Heaven:
Download: Closing Down Heaven PDF
[Pub.87VcJ] Closing Down Heaven PDF | by Lesley Choyce
Closing Down Heaven by by Lesley Choyce
This Closing Down Heaven book is not really ordinary book, you have it then the world is in your hands. The benefit you get by reading this book is actually information inside this reserve incredible fresh, you will get information which is getting deeper an individual read a lot of information you will get. This kind of Closing Down Heaven without we recognize teach the one who looking at it become critical in imagining and analyzing. Don't be worry Closing Down Heaven can bring any time you are and not make your tote space or bookshelves' grow to be full because you can have it inside your lovely laptop even cell phone. This Closing Down Heaven having great arrangement in word and layout, so you will not really feel uninterested in reading.
Read Online: Closing Down Heaven PDF


text:
Story highlights
NEW: Hotel director: "He was happy, with a permanent smile on his face, and talking"
The 86-year-old Castro "is doing very well," Venezuela's former vice president says
He shows a snapshot of the former Cuban leader he says was taken on Saturday
Speculation has surged over Castro's health in recent weeks
The article comes after a former Venezuelan vice president said Sunday that Castro was "doing very well" and showed reporters a snapshot of the former Cuban leader that he said was taken the day before.
Speculation has surged over Castro's health in recent weeks. He has not been seen publicly since March, when he met with Pope Benedict XVI during the pontiff's visit to Cuba.
Elias Jaua, Venezuela's former vice president, said Sunday that he discussed a variety of subjects with the former Cuban leader in a lengthy meeting.
"Comandante Fidel was kind enough to meet with us yesterday," Jaua said. "We talked for five hours about agriculture, history, international politics."
The photograph, Jaua said, shows Castro and several members of his family in a van accompanying Jaua to the Havana hotel where he is staying.
Employees at the Hotel Nacional said they spoke with Castro and he looked well.
"He had good color. … He was happy, with a permanent smile on his face, and talking about a lot of things," said Antonio Martinez, the director of the government-run hotel.
On Wednesday, Cuban state media released the first communique said to be from the 86-year-old ex-leader since speculation over his health reached a fever pitch earlier this month.
The message quoted Castro congratulating doctors graduating from a Cuban medical institute and mentioning the 50th anniversary of the Cuban missile crisis.
Castro's usually frequent newspaper columns and musings suddenly ended in June. But his silence after the re-election of close ally Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez in October prompted many of his opponents to wonder whether Castro was again ailing or perhaps already dead.
"The comandante is well, following his daily routine, reading, exercising," said Alex Castro, one of Castro's sons, told Cuban state media after the reports of his ill health.
Still, a barrage of postings on Twitter and other social media had Castro at death's door.
Castro never fully recovered after a botched surgery for a still unknown intestinal illness in 2006. Two years later, his brother Raul Castro officially succeeded him.
Cuba state media releases message from Fidel Castro


text:
BINGOPLUS casino : 5+5 non limited cash back
BINGOPLUS casino got non limited cash back bonus, in BINGOPLUS casino no matter how many times you have deposit, you can always get 5+5 cash back bonus in BINGOPLUS casino.
Hello! BINGOPLUS casino Welcome New Members🙌🙌🙌
BINGOPLUS casino is Newest & Hottest Online Casino
Want to play your favorite games with your Mobile/PC ?
=Just click the link to=
🧧Contact to CS
💰Get Your Huge Welcome B Now!
👉This Event is for new registered members Only.
Can not withdraw!
This is a FREE TRIAL ONLY you cant withdraw from this PROMO
📣Event Rules
- First, you need to create your account
- Secondly contact to CS and apply free chips to play
🎰Deposit to your BINGOPLUS casino account over ₱500 and receive 5% bonus.
🎰Required Valid Turnover 1x
🔍How to claim your bonus?
Deposit minimum of ₱500 and System will confirm your deposit
After check you will get the 5% cash back bonus.
Deposit ₱500, get ₱25, and play with ₱525.
Deposit ₱1,000, get ₱50, and play with ₱1,050.
Deposit ₱2,000, get ₱100, and play with ₱2,100 !!
Daily Unlimited 5% Rebate Bonus, cash in more Bonus more.
🌐Terms and Conditions
- This bonus is considered betting points; players should meet the valid turnover requirements to withdraw.
- This bonus applies to our betting platforms.
- This promotion cannot be used in conjunction with any other promotional offer.
- To avoid misunderstanding the promotion description, do not hesitate to contact our customer service/agents.
- BINGOPLUS casino. reserves the rights to alter, amend or terminate this Promotion, or any aspect of it, at any time without prior notice.
🧧 5%+5% 🧧
🎃🎃 Give all players something good to bonus!
👻How to get the most out of rewards?
Deposit at least 10,000P one-time rewards to cash back 5%+5% BONUS!
You can earn up to a 10% Cashback Bonus ❤🔥❤🔥
🥳🥳Come to BINGOPLUS casino deposit and get Bonus Chips🥳🥳
Deposit More Get Bonus More ‼‼
📣Event Rules
- The stored value reaches the corresponding amount 10,000 PHP or over
- contact to CS and apply an additional 5% Cash Back bonus rapidly
- The bonus rebate amount will be credited to the account automatically after CS checks.
Turnover: 1X
Need to apply 5% cashback Before place your bets
BINGOPLUS casino Not accept to Claim the bonus after you place your bets
Every Cash-in = 10,000 PHP (or over)
you will get up to 10% cashback
Turnover Requirement=10000php+(1000phpx1)=11000
Other online casino recommendation
747live :
747live the most worthwhile casino in the Philippines which has the fastest ci / co ,we provide slots, baccarat, poker, fishing and sport betting. Come and try.
Welcome to Okbet Online Casino, with extreme high bonus, 100% legit online casino, instant CI/CO, get your first jackpot now!
OKbet sports Betting:
OKbet Sports Betting is the most popular online sports betting platform in Asia, It provides every user with the best In-Game and Pre-Match sports betting.
KawBet online casino , the best online gaming experience. Provides you with online slot games, fishing games, live casino and sports betting.
Hawkplay online casino gives you the best online gaming experience. Provides you with online slot games, fishing games, lottery, live casino and sports betting.


text:
|Instrument(s): Violin & Clavier
|Style: Baroque
|Opus: BWV 1017
|Date of composition: Not known
|Source: Leipzig: Breitkopf & Härtel, (1860). Plate B.W.IX
|Copyright: Public Domain
|Last updated: 2010/Jan/09. View change history
|Music ID Number: Mutopia-2010/01/09-1733
|Typeset using: LilyPond, version 2.12.2
|LilyPond file
|MIDI files (zipped)
|A4 PDF files
|Letter PDF files
This file was created from a public domain scan of the work. The source is located in the Petrucci Music Library, http://imslp.org/.
|Maintainer: Ryan Prince
|rprincerp (at) gmail.com


text:
Chelsea Handler
Chelsea Handler, E!'s resident funnywoman and host of the hit late-night talk show Chelsea Lately is known for her sharp wit and no-holds-barred take on Hollywood's biggest celebs.
Born in Livingston, N.J. in 1975, the stand-up comedian got her big break as a prankster on the television show Girls Behaving Badly before moving over to the E! network in 2006. The late night host is also a best-selling author, thanks to 2005's My Horizontal Life: A Collection of One-Night Stands and the hilarious Are You There Vodka? It's Me, Chelsea, released in 2008.
In 2009, she won a Bravo A-List award, and she recently announced she has extended her contract for Chelsea Lately until 2012. Handler appears on the cover of Playboy's December 2009 issue.
After four years of dating, Handler split with Comcast CEO Ted Harbert in early 2010; she later dated animal trainer Dave Salmoni, rapper 50 Cent and hotelier Andrew Balazs.


text:
Now's the time to explore Morocco on your terms with this tour that's affordable for young travellers. Modern, ancient, bohemian, sophisticated — no matter how many superlatives you can think of, northern Morocco surpasses them all. We've put together a trip that shows you all the best sights while still leaving money for a souvenir or two from the medina. Over seven days, you'll tour old-world Fès and the famous blue-and-white buildings of Chefchaouen, then explore mysterious Marrakech and the bustle of Djeema El Fna. If you want to score serious culture points, there's nowhere better than beautiful Morocco.
What's Included : Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Meeting - Meet Your CEO and Group Your First Night Out Moment: Connect With New Friends. Enjoy free time in Rabat. Explore the blue city of Chefchaouen. Visit the medina and souks of Fès. Discover the bustling city of Marrakech. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.
Highlights : Marvel at history in ancient medinas, See traditional storytellers and magicians in local markets, Explore colourful souks, Indulge in tanjia and harira soup
Dossier Disclaimer : The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and the operator. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travellers, comments and our own research. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience. Please note that our brochure is usually released in November each year. If you have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have been some changes to the itinerary. VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your Trip Details to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans.
Itinerary Disclaimer : While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The Trip Details document is a general guide to the tour and region and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Aboard expedition trips visits to research stations depend on final permission. Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.
Itinerary Notes : Please note that if you are travelling to Morocco between November and February, your tour will have a level of flexibility based off of winter weather conditions on roads in the mountains. Heavy snow is not uncommon, so plan on packing warmer clothing to suit conditions.
Important Notes : ITINERARY PACE This is a very fast paced itinerary which covers lots of ground. While this is great as it allows us to see a huge amount in the available time, it also means some early starts, some long drives in the mini van and less free time than many other G Adventures. We feel that if you enter this trip with this knowledge and expectation, you will appreciate even more the variety of locations we are able to include in this itinerary. TRANSPORT The legroom in the minivan is possibly smaller than you may be used to and taller passengers may find space a little cramped. It is important to be aware that as it is not a legal requirement in buses in Morocco, your vehicle may not be equipped with seat belts. WEATHER Please note that the climate in Morocco can be both very hot during the day in summer months (up to 50°C) and cold at night in the mountains in autumn, early spring and winter (down to -6°C). Summer months, from April to September are very hot throughout Morocco. Winter months November to March can be cool to cold, especially in the Atlas Mountains, with high probability of snowfall. Most Moroccan buildings are not equipped with heating, so without proper layers you will be cold at night. Please bring appropriate clothing for the months in which you are travelling and check temperatures before you leave. Bedding is provided in the desert camp and the gîte, but in winter months if you feel the cold you may wish to bring a sleeping bag too. RAMADAN According to the lunar cycle, Ramadan will fall between Mar 23rd - Apr 20th 2023, and Mar 11th - Apr 8th 2024. Please note that Ramadan is a month of fasting observed by Muslims throughout the world, during which time the followers of Islam should not eat or drink between sunrise and sunset. There may be some limitations to services and disruptions to schedules during Ramadan, but generally our tours still operate effectively during this period and food is available to non-Muslims throughout the day. It is very important to display increased cultural sensitivity during Ramadan. Please wear loose fitting clothes, that cover knees and shoulders, and try to avoid eating, drinking or smoking in public out of respect for those who can't at that time. COMBO TRIP Please note that this tour combines with other G Adventures tours. As such, the staff and some travel companions on your tour may have previously been traveling together with G Adventures, prior to Day 1 of your tour. Likewise, some staff and travel companions may be continuing together on another G Adventures tour, after your trip concludes.
Group Leader Description : This G Adventures group trip is accompanied by one of our group leaders, otherwise known as a Chief Experience Officer (CEO). As the group coordinator and manager, the aim of the CEO is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. You can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of Morocco, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. They will also offer suggestions for things to do and to see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. We also use certified local city guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting - we think it's the best of both worlds.
Group Size Notes : Max 14, avg 10.
Meals Included : 6 breakfasts
Meals : Generally meals are not included in the trip price when there is a choice of eating options, to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility, though generally food is cheap. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. Your CEO will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip. For all trips please refer to the meals included and budget information for included meals and meal budgets. Breakfasts Moroccan breakfasts tend to be different from your usual cereal and toast morning fare – most will be very simple - a croissant or sweet roll with jam and instant coffee and some hotels will have buffets where you will have more variety. While you are experiencing what a Moroccan family would eat, some travellers do find the provided breakfasts a bit "bread heavy" and enjoy buying fruit the day before to supplement their breakfast. Lunches and Dinners Moroccan cuisine is world famous and your CEO will be taking the chance to show you the best of it. Staples include cous cous, a type of grain topped with stew, tagine which is actually the name of the pot this tasty dish is cooked in, and brochette, bbq skewers of meat. These meals will generally cost between 45- 70 MAD depending on the type of restaurant and which part of the country you are in. Other tastes not to be missed include pastilla, a sweet pasty with a savoury filling which is traditionally pigeon and harira, a delicious soup based on chick peas and filling enough when teamed with fresh bread to be a whole lunch. If you are heading to the coast the fresh seafood cooked at one of the local markets is a must eat! Snacks Morocco's fresh orange juice is highly recommended and you should not leave without trying a glass. The brave can try the tiny snails which are perhaps the local's favourite snack but you might prefer a cone of piping hot bite-size fried cake donuts.
Transport : Air-conditioned private vehicle, walking.
About our Transportation : Please note that there is a lot of fast paced travel on this itinerary which necessitates some long travel days in our mini van. We feel that if you enter this trip with this knowledge and expectation, you will appreciate even more the variety of locations we are able to include in this itinerary. The legroom in the minivan is possibly smaller than you may be used to and taller passengers may find space a little cramped. It is important to be aware that as it is not a legal requirement in buses in Morocco, your vehicle may not be equipped with seat belts. The minivans have air conditioning, however please note that summer temperatures in Morocco can easily reach 50 celsius. When the outside temperature is so hot, a minibus air conditioning system will not be able to cool the bus to the temperatures you are used to enjoying at home. Please bear in mind that travelling in Morocco in summer will inevitably involve very hot temperatures and some discomfort may be experienced when travelling.
Solo Travellers : We believe solo travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and solo travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.
Accommodation : Simple hotels (6 nts, twin-share).
My Own Room : Please note that if you have booked the "My Own Room" option for this tour, you will receive your own single room for all night stops
About Accommodation : On this trip you can expect to stay in local hotels or pensions (with the exception of the start and finish hotels, which are often larger city hotels), which will vary a bit in facilities: some may not have elevators, air-conditioning or English-speaking staff, but most importantly all are locally-run, with some traditional character, and in excellent central locations to give you maximum time for exploring the sights. Please note that Morocco is a developing country and as such the infrastructure is not as reliable as you would expect at home. Expect quirky plumbing and the odd cold shower! Please be advised that some of the accommodation for this tour will have shared bathroom facilities. Where we use multi-share accommodations, rooming requests of any kind cannot be taken. For private accommodation please see tours in our Classic Travel Style.
Joining Hotel : For details of your joining hotel please refer to your tour voucher, G Account, the G Adventures App or contact your travel agent.
Joining Instructions : If you have pre-arranged an arrival transfer, please note that transfer representatives are no longer allowed to wait for passengers inside the airport. Please exit the airport, and look for the driver holding a G Adventures sign outside of Terminal 2. Please approach them, and ask them who they are supposed to be picking up (do not tell them your name, they should have this information already). Once they give you the correct name, have your passport ready to show them and you will be on your way! If you choose to get to Hotel Casablanca from the airport on your own, take an official taxi. It will cost approximately 300Dirhams and take around 1hour to reach the Hotel. Please note that day 1 is an arrival day and no activities have been planned on this day. Upon arrival to the city on day 1 (or earlier if you have booked pre-accommodation with us), please make your way to the joining hotel (note that check-in time will be in the afternoon). Once you arrive at the hotel, look for a note or bulletin board in the reception with a note from your CEO. This note will give the details of your Welcome Meeting on day 1 (usually between 5pm and 7pm), where you will get a chance to meet your CEO and other travellers, as well as learn more about how the tour will run. If you don't see a note, please ask reception for details! If you are arriving later and will miss the Welcome Meeting, your CEO will leave a note at reception for you with any information you may need, and with morning instructions for the next day.
Arrival Complications : We do not expect any complications and nor should you but the following information is supplied in case of extra ordinary circumstances. PRE-BOOKED AIRPORT TO HOTEL TRANSFERS If you have pre-arranged an arrival transfer, please look for the driver holding a G Adventures sign outside of the terminal hall. Please approach them, and ask them who they are supposed to be picking up (do not tell them your name, they should have this information already). Once they give you the correct name, have your passport ready to show them and you will be on your way! If you are unable to locate your G Adventures airport representative, please call our local staff at +212 528 824898 (during office hours Mon-Fri) or +212 661 429700 (after office hours or at any time if you are unable to get through to the office) They will assist you in getting to the joining hotel. If you have arrived at Casablanca airport, before calling please double-check with the airport staff which terminal you have arrived at. (This may not be the terminal stated on your airline ticket, as Casablanca flight arrivals often experience a change in arrival terminal). Please make your way to the Airport Information Desk in Terminal 1 (this is a short walk from the other terminals) If you are not travelling with a telephone, please head to the airport Information booth who will be able to assist you in the purchase of a phone card and direct you to a telephone. If for any reason you are unable to commence your trip as scheduled, or your flight is delayed, please call the above numbers to inform our staff so we can re-book your transfer.
Emergency Contact : Should you need to contact us during a situation of dire need, it is best to first call either the G Adventures Local Representative (if one is listed below) or our G Adventures Local Office. If for any reason you do not receive an immediate answer, please leave a detailed message and contact information, so they may return your call and assist you as soon as possible. AIRPORT TRANSFER If you have purchased an arrival through G Adventures or if an arrival transfer is included in the cost of your tour, please note that: Your arrival transfer has been arranged based on flight information provided to us. If you are advised of a flight schedule change within 48 hours of your scheduled arrival time, we will do our best to rearrange your arrival transfer however we cannot guarantee this. If your arrival transfer does not arrive within 30 minutes after you have exited the arrivals area please take a taxi to your start point hotel. EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS G Adventures Local Representative (Morocco) During Office hours (Weekdays, 9am-5pm Local Time): +212 (0)528 824898 After hours emergency number: +212 (0) 661 861950 If you are unable to contact either of these numbers please phone G Adventures Regional Operations Manager Emergency Cell Phone: +44 (1858) 378000 If you are unable for any reason to contact our local office, please call the numbers listed below which will connect you directly with our Sales team who will happily assist you. Hours of operation by region can be found here. Toll-free, North America only: 1 888 800 4100 Calls from UK: 0344 272 0000 Calls from Germany: 0800 365 1000 Calls from Australia: 1 300 796 618 Calls from New Zealand: 0800 333 307 Outside North America, Australia, New Zealand, Germany and the UK: +1 416 260 0999
Finishing Point Instructions : We are able to organize extra accommodation post-trip should you require it, as well as departure transfer. Please inquire at the time of booking. If you'd like to book a departure transfer from Marrakech Hotel to Casablanca International Airport, please choose an 8am shuttle option for flights departing after 14:30, and a 13:30 shuttle option for flights departing after 19:30. For departure to Marrakech International Airport: a taxi will costs a proximately MAD150. Ask the Hotel staff or your CEO for help in arranging a taxi. For departure to Casablanca: Take the train from Marrakech to Casablanca. The train service is comfortable and fast (approx 3hrs 10 mins to Casablanca city centre and 4hrs 40 minutes to the airport). It is probably best to go to the Marrakech station and buy your ticket the day before travel. Ask your CEO if you need any advice. Please note that Casablanca Airport is directly served by train so if you are going to the airport make sure you buy tickets to Casablanca Mohammed V Airport (approx MAD200 first class).To give you sufficient time to catch your plane, please do not book a flight home which departs before 13:00 at the absolute earliest. Take a petit taxi from the hotel to the Gare (train station) in Marrakech (approx MAD20) may be more with luggage.
What to Take : You will be on the move a lot, so our advice is to pack as lightly as possible. We highly recommend using a backpack or light sports bag, whichever you find easiest to carry, plus a small daypack. Luggage space on transport is limited. You must be prepared to carry your own bags and be comfortable carrying them between transport and hotels (max. 15-20 mins walking), hopping on and off trains and public buses and up and down stairs.
Packing List : Conservative Dress: • Modest clothing that covers knees and shoulders (Long pants, long skirts, shirts that cover shoulders) • Shawl or scarf (for temple visits) Documents: • Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border) • Insurance info (required) (With photocopies) • Passport (required) (With photocopies) • Required visas or vaccination certificates (required) (With photocopies) • Vouchers and pre-departure information (required) Essentials: • Binoculars (optional) • Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries) • Cash, credit and debit cards • Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights) • Ear plugs • First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking) • Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal) • Fleece top/sweater • Footwear • Hat • Locks for bags • Long pants/jeans • Moneybelt • Outlet adapter • Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.) • Reusable water bottle • Shirts/t-shirts • Sleepwear • Small travel towel • Sunglasses • Toiletries (Preferably biodegradable) • Watch and alarm clock • Waterproof backpack cover • Windproof rain jacket Health & Safety: • Face masks (required) • Hand sanitizer (required) • Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.) • Quick Covid Test/Antigen Test Warm Weather: • Sandals/flip-flops • Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended) • Sun hat/bandana • Swimwear Note: For departures from Nov-Feb the weather can be cold, please bring warm clothing.
Laundry : Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge. There will be times when you may want to or have to do your own laundry so we suggest you bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap.
Visas and Entry Requirements : All countries require a valid passport (with a minimum 6 months validity). Contact your local embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements, or see your travel agent. It is your own responsibility to have the correct travel documentation. Visa requirements for your trip will vary depending on where you are from and where you are going. We keep the following information up to date as far as possible, but rules do change and sometimes without warning. While we provide the following information in good faith, it is vital that you check the information yourself and understand that you are fully responsible for your own visa requirements. Visa information specific to your destination and nationality can be found in our Important Pre-Departure Information page here
Detailed Trip Notes : REGIONAL INFORMATION. Climate: The climate in Morocco is Mediterranean along the coast, becoming more extreme towards the interior of the country. The winter months are from October to March and are characterized by cold nights and pleasant days. Summer is from April to September and starts off very pleasantly with moderate temperatures until mid-June when temperatures get extremely hot, to return to more moderate heat in late September. Inland, the climate is very dry and high temperatures predominate during the day for most of the year, except in the higher mountain areas. It rains generally only in short bursts in the period from the beginning of November until March. Electricity: Morocco uses 220V, 50Hz and plugs are two prong rounded (as for Europe). Languages: Arabic is the official language of Morocco, spoken in the distinctive Moroccan dialect. Approximately 40% of the population (mainly in rural areas) speak Amazigh (or Berber) in one of its three different dialects (Tarafit, Tashelhiyt and Tamazight). French is Morocco's unofficial second language and is taught universally, serving as the country's primary language in economics and commerce, as well as being widely used in education and government. Many Moroccans in the north of the country speak Spanish and English is widely spoken in tourist areas. Capital city: Rabat Principal ethnic groups: 30% Arab, 60% Amazigh Religion: Islam is the official state religion with almost the entire population being Sunni Muslim. 1% are Christian and about 0.2% are Jewish.
Spending Money : Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.
Money Exchange : The local currency in Morocco is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD). ATMs are very common in Morocco with Cirrus and Plus system cards are the most widely accepted debit cards. While ATMs are commonly available, there are no guarantees that your credit or debit cards will actually work - it is important you check with your bank before departure and advisable to travel with more than one type of card. Visa cards are the most widely accepted credit cards, but are generally only useful for larger/expensive purchases. You should be aware when purchasing products or services on a credit card, that a fee usually applies. The foreign currency most commonly accepted in Morocco is the Euro. You will be able to exchange Euros, as well as GBP and USD at money exchange offices in major cities. Do not rely on credit or debit cards as your only source of money. A combination of cash (EUR, GBP or USD) and cards is best. As currency exchange rates can fluctuate often we ask that you refer to the following website for daily exchange rates: www.xe.com
Emergency Fund : Please also make sure you have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control (ex. a natural disaster) require a change to our planned route. This is a rare occurrence!
Departure Tax : Usually included in your ticket, check with your air travel agent.
Tipping : Morocco has a strong tipping culture - it is customary and even expected to tip small service providers such as restaurant and bar waiters, hotel staff, reception, cleaning personnel, bell boys, taxis and van drivers. Tips are regarded as an essential means of supplementing income for those working in the tourism industry. Even though this might not be customary to you, nor such common practice in your home country, it is generally expected and of great significance to the people who will be assisting you during your travels. Depending on your preference and/or that of the group, you may choose to tip individually, organize the tipping with your travelling companions, or, your CEO will offer to collect the tip money at the beginning of your tour and tip as a group with your participation as the tour progresses. A recommendation for tipping small service providers is about $3 USD per day, depending on the quality of the service (this does not include your G Adventures CEO). Feel free to ask your CEO for the breakdown/distribution of the tips. Note that if you have been very disappointed by a particular service, please inform your CEO right away, and the tip will be adjusted accordingly. Also, at the end of your trip if you felt your G Adventures CEO did an outstanding job, tipping is also expected and appreciated. The precise amount is entirely a personal preference, however USD35-40 per person per week can be used as a general guideline.
Optional Activities : Er Rif - Rif Valley Mountains Hike (67USD per person) Fès - Ville Nouvelle Exploration (Free) - Belghazi Museum (15MAD per person) - Shop Fès Medina (Free) - Dinner in Converted Fès Riad (400-500MAD per person) - Fès Medina Guided Tour (250MAD per person) Marrakech - Traditional Moroccan Dinner with Folklore Entertainment (400-500MAD per person) - Djemaa el Fna Market Square Visit (Free) - Hot Air Balloon Marrakech
Health : Please note inoculations may be required for the country visited. It is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for up to date medical travel information well before departure. There are no specific health requirements for this trip. However, you should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information before departure. We recommend that you carry a First Aid kit, hand sanitizers / antibacterial wipes as well as any personal medical requirements . Please be aware that we are in remote areas and away from medical facilities for some time during this trip, and for legal reasons our leaders are prohibited from administering any type of drug including headache tablets, antibiotics, etc. When selecting your trip please carefully read the G Adventures brochure and itinerary and assess your ability to cope with our style of travel. Please contact us at firstname.lastname@example.com should you require any clarification on what is involved on your itinerary. G Adventures reserves the right to exclude any traveller from all or part of a trip without refund if in the reasonable opinion of our CEO they are unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group.
Safety and Security : Many national governments provide a regularly updated advice service on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure. We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe keeping of your passport, air tickets, travellers' cheques, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewelery at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of the hotels we use have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. When travelling on a group trip, please note that your group leader has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it deemed necessary, due to safety concerns. Your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) will accompany you on all included activities. During your trip you will have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy and explore at your leisure. While your CEO will assist you with options available in a given location, please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your itinerary, and we offer no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgement when selecting an activity in your free time. Although the cities visited on tour are generally safe during the day, there can be risks to wandering throughout any major city at night. It is our recommendation to stay in small groups and to take taxis to and from restaurants, or during night time excursions. Water based activities have an element of danger and excitement built into them. We recommend only participating in water based activities when accompanied by a guide(s). We make every reasonable effort to ensure the fun and adventurous element of any water based activities (in countries with varying degrees of operating standards), have a balanced approach to safety. It is our policy not to allow our CEOs to make arrangements on your behalf for water based activities that are not accompanied by guide(s). Swimming, including snorkeling, is always at your own risk. Read more about travel safety for ways to further enhance your personal safety while traveling.
Trip Specific Safety : Like anywhere in the world, major cities have areas safer than others, use common sense, be aware of your surroundings and mind your personal belongings. It is important to note that as it is not a legal requirement in buses in Morocco, your vehicle may not be equipped with seat belts.
A Couple of Rules : Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for our travellers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. The exploitation of people in the sex trade is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our CEOs have the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they utilize the services of paid sex workers, in any capacity.
Travel Insurance : Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your leader, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy we require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency evacuation and repatriation. A minimum coverage of USD200,000 is required. G Adventures can provide you with the appropriate coverage. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. Some tours include adventure activities that require extra coverage (e.g. crampon use); please review your itinerary and make sure that you are covered for all included activities. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.
Planeterra Foundation - the non-profit partner of G Adventures : Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization committed to turning travel into impact by helping local communities earn an income from tourism. Planeterra connects underserved local communities to the benefits of tourism by developing and supporting small community-owned businesses. These businesses support Indigenous people, empower women, grant youth access to employment opportunities, and protect the environment. Planeterra also works to ensure these businesses have a thriving customer base by integrating their projects into G Adventures' itineraries globally. G Adventures is Planeterra's largest corporate donor, covering all operating costs, so 100% of your donation will bring opportunity to people in need. G Adventures Dollar-a-day Program - Make Every Day Count - Turn your travel into impact with Planeterra Foundation. Did you know? Most communities around the world do not benefit from tourism. Give back to the places you visit on your travels by creating opportunities for local people to earn an income, and protect the environment. Make every day count by donating $1/day for the length of your trip, and join us in empowering the communities you will visit when you travel. 100% of your donation goes directly to Planeterra projects.
Local Dress : While visiting mosques and other religious monuments you should dress modestly, cover your shoulders and you shouldn't wear short shorts or skirts. Outside of capital cities and the more touristic centres, local dress is often more conservative and as a matter of respect we ask that both men and women are aware of this and recommend loose-fitting clothes with your shoulders covered. Ask your CEO for more specific advice.
Feedback : After your travels, we want to hear from you! Your feedback information is so important to us that we'll give you 5% off the price of your next G Adventures trip if your feedback is completed on-line within 30 days of finishing your trip. Your tour evaluation will be e-mailed to you 24 hours after the conclusion of your trip. If you do not receive the tour evaluation link in the days after your tour has finished, please drop us a line at email@example.com and we will send it on to you.
Newsletter : Our adventure travel e-newsletter is full of travel news, trip information, interesting stories and contests. To avoid missing out on special offers and updates from G Adventures, subscribe at www.gadventures.com/newsletters/ Stay current on how our company invests in our global community through our foundation – Planeterra. Sign up for Planeterra's monthly news to learn more about how to give back and support the people and places we love to visit.
Minimum Age : Minimum age of 18 years for this trip.
International Flights : Check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.
Group Leader : CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout.
Max Pax : 14
Arrive at any time. Get excited for your first night out with your fellow travellers. Take to the streets in the heart of Casablanca and hit up one of your CEO's favourite local spots. Enjoy connecting with your fellow travellers while getting to know Casablanca. Your first night out is just that – the first of many and a perfect way to set the tone for the rest of your grand adventure.
With a good night's sleep behind you, set out from Casablanca. With the bright blue waters of the Atlantic to your left and the sun drenched wonders of Morocco to your right, travel up the coast to Morocco's capital city, Rabat. Stretch your legs as you wander the ramparts and colourful alleys of the city's old quarter. Take in breathtaking views from Kasbah des Oudaias, then indulge in lunch. After you've eaten the hangry away, continue toward Chefchaouen. Here, beneath the soaring Rif mountains, feeling the blues takes on a different meaning. Take an orientation walk through the blue-washed streets of Chefchaouen before settling in for the night.
Hoping for free time to explore all Chefchaouen has to offer? Wish granted! Spend your day taking in the splendor of the city and it's surrounding geography. If the (Rif) Mountains are calling, you should definitely answer. Opt to pre-book the Rif Valley Mountains Hike. Or, opt to visit the Spanish Mosque for breathtaking sunset views of the city.
Fès awaits! Upon arrival, put your free time to good use by checking out Moroccan artwork and historical artifacts at the Belghazi Museum or visit an Amazigh (or Berber) pharmacy (a far cry from the kind of pharmacy you may be used to at home). Wander the many mazes of Fès's colourful, ancient tanneries.
With so much to see, another free day in Fès is always a good idea. Breathe in decadent spices (oxygen is for the weak anyway, right?) as you sample treats from the many food carts scattered throughout the medina. Explore the artisan quarters as you take in the city that is often referred to as the cultural heart of Morocco. In the evening, opt to partake in a traditional dinner in a converted riad complete with music and belly dancing.
After getting back on the road and watching the scenery roll by, arrive in vibrant, bustling Marrakech. Spend the evening exploring the gardens, souks, and other wonders of Marrakech.
Parting is such sweet sorrow, but perhaps consider booking a few extra nights in Marrakech to experience the city further.
If you're interested in this tour, please fill out this form and I'll get back to you ASAP!


text:
Prime Minister David Cameron was reprimanded by a budget watchdog for claiming that it did not see his austerity agenda as a drag on Britain's economy. In a speech on Thursday, Cameron said his deficit-cutting agenda was not responsible for the country's depressed growth rate which was instead caused by the financial crisis, the Euro zone's problems and higher oil prices - a view he said was endorsed by the independent watchdog.
However the Office for Budget Responsibility's (OBR) Chairman Robert Chote replied in a letter to the Prime Minister which it published on its website.
For the avoidance of doubt, I think it is important to point out that every forecast published by the OBR since the June 2010 budget has incorporated the widely held assumption that tax increases and spending cuts reduce economic growth Chote wrote in the letter.
While it was unclear how much of a drag the government's belt-tightening had on the economy - and the factors cited by Cameron were likely to have been factors - the OBR believed it had reduced growth over the past couple of years, he said.
Chote's letter was seized upon by the opposition Labour party which has lambasted the government over its economic policies and said it must change course to return to growth.
Deep spending cuts and tax rises have reduced economic growth, as the OBR says, and so it was deeply misleading for David Cameron to claim otherwise, said Ed Balls, Labour's main economics spokesman.
Britain risks tipping into its third recession in four years after the economy shrank in late 2012.
It was stripped of its triple-A credit rating last month by ratings agency Moody's which said weak growth had knocked off track the government's plan to fix the budget deficit and rising debt.
The government uses the OBR's projections as the basis for its budget planning and has made much of the credibility of its forecasts. The next budget is due to be announced on March 20. Cameron said in his speech that the government would not deviate from its plan to tackle the deficit.
A Downing Street spokesman defended Cameron's choice of words and said he had been referring to reasons why Britain's economic growth had been weaker than the OBR original forecasts.
The OBR has today again highlighted external inflation shocks, the euro zone and financial sector difficulties as the reasons why their forecasts have come in lower than expected. That is precisely the point the prime minister was underlining, the spokesman said.
Good job Mr. Camoron with Britain triple dip.Mar 10th, 2013 - 03:40 pm 0
UK empire is downing!!!!!!!!Mar 10th, 2013 - 04:27 pm 0
Ah the only two posts are from mindless trolls.
It's funny that any Argentine has the gall to talk about the UK's economy when theirs is the laughing stock of the world.
The joke's on you suckers!
Commenting for this story is now closed.
If you have a Facebook account, become a fan and comment on our Facebook Page!