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Lets face it.
The reason many of you went out on a limb and decided to start your own business was the prospect of having more money and more free time. But after putting in a heap of work, you have probably realized that it isn't quite that simple.
Instead, it's the opposite.Lots of work and (at this stage) not enough money — am I right?
However, that doesn't mean that your dream is impossible.
In fact, by using the right strategies, you can scale your business and exponentially increase your income, while actually reducing the amount of time you need to work.
You just have to approach it the right way.
1. Move online
Now this should be a given, but I am still going to mention it briefly on the off chance that you haven't already done it. If you sell a product, a service, or anything in between, then you should be online.
This is how you expand your market nationally and internationally, and increase your earnings.
2. Choose the right platform
OK, so now thats out of the way, it's time to choose an e-commerce platform.
An e-commerce platform is a type of website that lets people buy your products or services.
Having a good platform ensures that customers never have to leave your site. They streamline your payments, advertising, and customer reviews. They also tell you when a new order has come in, so you are always at the top of your game.
I should note that when it comes to picking a platform, some are much better than others — so choose wisely.
Your first point of call should be looking into some of the larger options like Shopify Plus, Big Commerce, or Magento enterprise.
Do a bit of research and pick the one that suits you best.
3. Double down on SEO
You have probably heard people in the online space talking about 'SEO' — and there is a very good reason for this.
Because it is important.
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In fact, it is essential.
SEO stands for 'search engine optimization' and it essentially determines how visible your website is to search engines like google. The better your SEO, the more likely you are going to come up on the first page of google's search results.
If your website isn't search engine optimized, you might as well not exist.
4. Create great content
Something that many people forget is the power of content.
No matter what type of business you run (or in what industry), you need to write relevant content for your website. This can be in the form of blogs, opinion pieces, or even long research articles.
The specifics don't matter — what matters is that you do it.
Firstly, having more content on your website improves your SEO. This makes you more likely to attract new customers. Secondly, providing free, high-quality content demonstrates your expertise in the area, and highlights that you are a trustworthy source of information.
This is how you build a good reputation and become an authority in your area — which is key if you want to start attracting customers, rather than chasing them.
5. Get your social sorted
When it comes to modern business, social media is a non-negotiable.
This means getting on facebook, instagram, and linkedin, and creating a core group of customers that believe in what you offer.
In essence, you want to create a community.
This means using social media to build a following of people who are invested and interact with your content. Once there, you can use these platforms to share content, host competitions, and most importantly, personally engage with your customers.
6. Connect with Inlfuencers
While we are on the topic of social media, let's talk about influencers.
These guys (and gals) have built massive audiences and extremely profitable businesses by simply producing good quality content and engaging with their audiences.
And, if you play your cards right, you can capitalize on their success.
One great way to scale your business is to get influencers on board to support your products or services. Simply find someone that resonates with you and give them the chance to try what you offer — if they like it, ask them to give it a plug.
This is a simple way to get in front of thousands of potential customers instantly.
7. Submit guest articles to websites
Making content for your own site is integral — but making content for other websites is also a great option.
Many authority sites (such as Medium) allow you to submit articles on particular topics. Assuming these articles are of a good enough quality, they get published, and you get some seriously good exposure.
I should note that this type of content should not be advertising focused.
Instead, it should provide value. Use the opportunity to provide useful information on your niche topic. Invite discussion and conversation that will draw people to your website for more information.
Again, make yourself an authority.
8. Use Email to Your Advantage
While social media is important, you don't want to forget about email.
Email marketing is a great way for you to build relationships with your customers. More importantly, you can use it to send targeted messages. It also gives you a chance to contact people when you have new products, sales, or competitions.
The key to getting started with email marketing is collecting people's emails.
While there are plenty of chances to do this (during checkout, or even via a pop-up while they are browsing), I think the best way is to offer something of value for free in exchange for their email address.
Think an ebook or an educational video series — something that offers heaps of value and people can't say "no" too.
9. Create an affiliate program
Affiliate marketing is where someone earns a commission by promoting another person's product.
In essence, they find a product or service that they like, and then promote it. Then, when people buy them, they earn a portion of the profit.
With this in mind, you can get affiliates to promote your products and services for you, and take a cut of every sale.
While paying people to sell your product might seem counterintuitive, it is actually a great idea. See, all of the sales you make via affiliates are ones you wouldn't have normally made, as they do not come from your normal audience.
This not only increases income, but it also exposes a broader market to your content — which is important for building a big customer base.
To finish up
When it comes to making more money through your business, it all comes down to scale. You want to build a business that creates profit 24/7 while you invest as little time as you possibly can.
And using the nine great tips in this article you can scale your business and take it to the next level — so why not get started?


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New #1
New buld 9926 installation . update error
I saw that new preview was available, but after downloading when system rebooted, I got some recovery error, then it rebooted and it said it failed to installed and that previous version wa restored.
Now when I go in Update and Preview download and install, i get error : 0x80246013 (see screenshot) Just to let you know all updates were successfully installed on previous later official build (9879).
Please anyone help ? I am also downloading ISO but i dont want to do clean install too much program to re install

subset: commoncrawl


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Night Black Camouflage Netting - Fire Retardant
Night Black Netting is a combination of black and dark gray - making it a popular choice during Halloween for haunted house displays.
It is also ideal for theatrical performances, haunted houses, theme parks, or any situation where you need decorative netting that is also fire retardant.
Fire Retardant Netting is high quality netting with Anti-Fire™ fire retardant treatment and is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. These nets are tested and exceed California Title 19 sec. 1237 fire standards and passes NFPA 701 which is acceptable with most Fire Marshalls.
3-D Leaf Like Foliage
Strong and Durable yet Compact
10 feet of netting weighs ≈ 2.3 pounds
Versatile, Many Uses and Applications
Please note, the maximum width is 7 feet 10 inches.
Standard non-stretch width is approximately 6 feet 6 inches.
|Fire Retardant Camo Netting
|100% Waterproof (Rot and Mold Resistant)
|UV Treated
|Made with Rip-Stop Material
|Quiet and Rustle Free
|Pliable in Extreme Temperatures
|Reversible Color Combinations
|Treated to Eliminate Shine and Glare
|3D Camo Pattern (versus solid colors on both sides)
|Structural Mesh Backing (tough mesh layer for added strength)
|Fire Retardant Treatment (passes NFPA70)
Customer Reviews
Using this for sound diffusion (minimizing direct reflection) in a recording studio... 2nd room with your netting... Works well... You might want to hire an acoustician to write something for your site, outlining this unusual application!!!
Great product, I really love my black Camo netting. Truly a great quality, and shipped extremely fast!


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Dave Maciver introduces the second IGigs podcast
Just music (and of course Dave) on our second podcast. So please sit back and enjoy the show;
The full play list is as follows;
Shoe Eating Rabbits – Let Me Go Home
Kids On Bridges ft Zigaboo Modeliste – Say Ok
Ette – I Hate You
A Billion Lions – Better In The Summer
Woodentooth – Vertigo
Hymn For Her – Slips
The Mystic Shoes – Papa Was A Rolling Stone
Mouses – Hollywood
The Broken Raves – Contrition
Animal Noise – How Can You Love Me
Polar Bears In Purgatory – Radio
Jinski – Ship Ahoy
North Atlas – Hal
All So Simple – City Streets
About the Podcast
IGigs Podcast features local music, acts coming to the area, the occasional live session & interview and anything else that take's our fancy.
If you want to feature on the show please email us at firstname.lastname@example.com


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Tonight's WWE SmackDown Live will see the build towards the WWE Royal Rumble continue with a major match between Rey Mysterio and Andrade "Cien" Almas.
The two men will go one on one in what should be an incredible match, but that isn't the only bout on the show that has already been confirmed.
After a war of words on social media between Carmella and Sonya Deville, it has been confirmed that the two women, both of whom will compete in the Rumble match, will go one on one.
Click Here: kildare gaa jerseys
Another announced segment will see the SmackDown Live Tag Team Championship number one contenders together as The Miz continues to try and win Shane McMahon over by throwing him a birthday bash on the show.
As always, ProWrestling.com will be providing complete, LIVE coverage of WWE Smackdown beginning tonight at 8pm EST, so be sure to join us then!
WWE.com is hyping the following points for tonight's show:
Rey Mysterio and Andrade "Cien" Almas continue their epic seriesThe Miz to throw Shane McMahon the "Best Birthday Bash In The World"Carmella and Sonya Deville square upWhat's next for Becky Lynch and Asuka?Will AJ Styles find out how vicious Daniel Bryan can be?
Last Tuesday, Rey Mysterio and Andrade "Cien" Almas dazzled the WWE Universe with an unbelievable exchange of holds and counters, as Mysterio showed why he is one of the greatest Superstars ever and Almas made his case for being the future of Team Blue. This week, the two luchadors will square off in one-on-one action. Can Mysterio turn back the young upstart, or will Almas defeat the masked legend? Find out on SmackDown LIVE, tonight at 8/7 C on USA Network!


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Hello Lovely Ladies,
Today's review is on an eyeshadow single from Estee Lauder – from their "Pure Color" line. Even though Estee Lauder really upped their game with their Pure Colour line and the various iterations in it – not sure if people look at it primarily for its colour cosmetics or it is still more know for its perfumes, skincare and the Double Wear foundation. Anyway. Let us dig into (not literally) this eyeshadow – Estee Lauder Pure Color Eyeshadow 52 Sizzling Copper Metallic.


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Tim Anderson stared at the elephant in the room and didn't blink.
For all the verbal pats on the back he has received for his growth at shortstop this season, there's no escaping the fact the White Sox spent the No. 4 pick in this year's draft on a middle infielder, Oregon State's Nick Madrigal.
So did Madrigal's selection in June light a fire under Anderson this summer?
"Hell no. Hell no. I motivate myself," Anderson said. "He's going to be a great player, but he's going to have to work to take shortstop, if that's the plan. I work too hard to just give it up."
Here's the bar Madrigal, now learning the position in instructional league after playing mostly second base in the minors this year and in college, will have to reach one day: Anderson became the first Sox shortstop to join the 20-20 club (home runs and stolen bases) when he homered off the Cubs' Jon Lester in the City Series on Saturday.
Anderson ranks 20th among shortstops in defensive wins above replacement — he was tied for 77th last season. He has risen from a -11.0 SDI rating (Society for American Baseball Research Defensive Index) in 2017 to 1.6 this season through Aug. 19, seventh among Gold Glove qualifiers in the American League at shortstop.
FanGraphs.com rates Anderson at 8.4, 10th among shortstops, just ahead of the Red Sox's Xander Bogaerts (11th) and the Cubs' Addison Russell (12th).
When general manager Rick Hahn gave his state of the Sox address Wednesday, he was asked if he saw Anderson as the long-term solution at shortstop, and Hahn replied, "As we sit here today, yeah."
"Let's start with the defense because that's the thing that really jumps out the most in terms of significant progress he has made," Hahn said. "He has managed to capitalize on the athleticism we always have seen from him and convert that into being a potentially Gold Glove-caliber defensive shortstop.
"This is really a testament in the end to Tim Anderson's work ethic. He knew it was an area that he wanted to improve, whether it was because he wanted to (prove) people wrong or because he knew he wanted to make himself a stalwart at that position and eliminate the rumors about a position change."
Anderson thanked the media, with a bit of tongue-in-cheek attitude, for providing some added fuel.
"You guys said I couldn't play shortstop," he said. "So you guys motivated me to go out and be the best shortstop that I can be."
Manager Rick Renteria said Anderson's been doing a better job reading balls off the bat, focusing and throwing the ball well from every angle.
"He has played All-Star-type shortstop," Renteria said.
Renteria said he saw Anderson turn a corner during an Aug. 1 game against the Royals, when he backhanded the first ball put into play and wheeled around to gun it to first base.
"We all went, 'Wow. OK, that's a play we had been hoping he woulld be able to make,' " Renteria said. "That was really a play he had problems with earlier. He has been out here (working) early ... and he has taken a lot of pride in trying to get that play down."
Anderson said the work is paying off, but he admits he's not a finished product.
Hours before he committed his 20th error to tie the A's Marcus Semien for second among shortstops Wednesday, Anderson told reporters, "I still have a lot more cleaning up to do and keep figuring out my position."
On the offensive side, his batting average has slid from .283 in 2016 to .242 this season (over 52 more games), and his on-base percentage from .306 to .283.
He has had 26 steals but has been caught eight times. He also has struck out 149 times in 563 at-bats, though he's hardly the only Sox hitter with that problem.
Hahn recognizes there are "other elements of his offensive game where he knows he needs to improve."
Chicago Tribune Sports
However, Hahn said, "Seeing that commitment and work ethic on the defensive side and knowing that he's capable of doing that, I think bodes well for his future on the offensive side as well."
Twitter @_phil_thompson
[ 3 things we learned from Rick Hahn's final state of the White Sox address ]
[ White Sox finish 2018 home slate on a low note with 10-2 loss to Indians ]


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West Yorkshire Spinners
Drew Hat pattern
This simple but stylish design by Rosee Woodland is perfect for when the weather gets cooler. Knit in an aran weight yarn. It was designed for The Croft by West Yorkshire Spinners but would be equally at home knit with Northern Lights by BC Garn or Country Classics Worsted by Sirdar.
This is a pdf pattern only. Once you add it to your cart and check out, you will get a link to download it. You will need software like Adobe Reader to open the file.


text: [B]FAMILY[/B] - Serranida\n\n[B]SCIENTIFIC NAME[/B] - Paranthias Fucifer\n\n[B]COMMON NAME[/B] - Creolefish\n\n[B]SIZE[/B] - 13.7" (35 cm)\n\n[B]RANGE[/B] - Tropical Atlantic\n\n[B]MIN. AQUARIUM SIZE[/B] - 75 US Gal. (284 L)\n\n[B]FOODS AND FEEDING[/B] - Marine fare for carnivores, marine fish, crustacean flesh, mysid shrimp, vitamin enriched brine shrimp, feed 3 times a day.\n\n[B]AQUARIUM SUITABILITY[/B] - 10\n\n[B]REEF COMPATIBILITY[/B] - May eat small ornamental crustaceans.\n\n[B]CAPTIVE CARE[/B] - Usually will not grow more than 7.8" (20 cm) in captivity. A Caribbean biotope aquarium is ideal for this fish, keep only one, may act aggressively towards others of its own kind in tanks not extremely large, a shoaling fish in nature, will act aggressively towards smaller passive fish, suitable with moderately aggressive tankmates i.e. (squirrelfishes, angelfishes, larger wrasses, damselfishes, surgeonfishes), will eat most aquarium foods (flake to live feeder fish), provide plenty of open swimming room, may jump from an open top tank.\n\n[CENTER][ATTACH=full]21855[/ATTACH] [/CENTER]


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Halo Board Portsmouth – England is a rustic that is part of the United Kingdom. It shares land borders with Wales to its west and Scotland to its north. The Irish Sea lies northwest of England and the Celtic Sea to the southwest. England is separated from continental Europe by the North Sea to the east and the English Channel to the south. The country covers five-eighths of the island of Great Britain, which lies within the North Atlantic, and contains over 100 smaller islands, such as the Isles of Scilly and the Isle of Wight.
Halo Board Portsmouth
Portsmouth is a city and metropolitan borough within theHampshire ceremonial county, England. It is a city, urban area, and metropolitan space part of the South East region in England and the United Kingdom, with roughly 855.679 inhabitants. Located at -1,0872° lng and 50,8058° lat. Portsmouth is commonly known as the Second City of the United Kingdom.
The Halo Rover
The Halo Rover has three training modes that permit anyone, from beginner to skilled, to study to trip at their very own pace. Thanks to the Ride-Assist function, the board all the time stays upright when powered on. That means it's all the time prepared for you to step on it and go!
The Dual Independent Motors offers a powerful 800 Watts of power, whereas the super-robust, all-terrain, never-flat tires present maximum grip. That means you'll be able to tackle any terrain, together with hills — so you don't have to relegate your Halo Rover to indoor or flat terrain use. Take it outside and even off-road – the Halo Rover can deal with it all! And simply in case you fall, the Protective Wings make sure that the physique of the board is protected and doesn't get damaged.
Halo Rover X Specifications
|UL 2272 Safety Hologram Certificate
|800 Watt Electric Power Motor
|Water Resistance
|IPX4 Water-Resistant
|Top Speed
|Up to 10 mph
|Up to 10 Miles
|Weight Limit
|44 lbs to 260 lbs
|Hill Grade:
|Up to 20 Degrees
|LED Head Lights
|Battery Life
|Up to 2 hours
|Safe Battery
|UL 2271 Certified LG Lithium-Ion Battery
|Charge Time
|2.5 hours
|32 lbs
|For Ages
|7 and Up
As you've come to expect from Halo Hover Boards, the Halo Rover has some spectacular technology. For the last word convenience, your Halo Rover might be paired together with your smartphone. Then, using our custom app, you have got everything you need at your fingertips, from powering your board on and off to mapping your trip to monitoring your pace, distance, and battery life.
And if motion is synonymous with music to you, then you'll love the built-in Halo Bluetooth speakers. Pair them together with your smartphone and hearken to your favourite tunes wherever you go.
The Halo Rover: The Safe Choice
Halo Board Portsmouth with the Halo Rover, you by no means must be involved about security. All of our hoverboards are examined to UL 2272 hoverboard security and UL 2271 battery safety certifications that mean you can trip free of any fear, irrespective of the place you go.
Get Your Own Halo Hoverboard
Find out why our Halo Rover Hoverboard is ranked 2018's Best Hoverboard by Choose Wheels — just store our on-line store as we speak! We offer free shipping and orders positioned by 7 pm EST are shipped the same day. That means you never have to attend lengthy earlier than you can start having fun with all that Halo hoverboards have to supply!
Best Seller
Halo Board Beast
Skateboarding has a brand new leader — Meet the all-new, highly effective, high-speed carver, the Halo Board Beast! The Halo Board skateboard strives at being the most effective among other boards. With speeds as much as 22mph together with a 12 miles vary per charge, you won't need to fret about not attending to where you're going. This isn't a first mile, final mile board – that is the entire damn trip.
The power output of the 3000-watt twin motors allows the Halo electrical skateboard to power up and over 25-degree hill grades, whereas its regenerative E-ABS system will safely gradual you down as you trip down. The Halo longboard utilizes custom-made aluminum trucks together with 83mm wheels with 78A softness to absorb the impact and rumble of rougher roads. This combination of pace, style, comfort, and a focus to detail is what made the Halo Board the Best Electric Skateboard 2021. If you don't imagine us, just try the Halo Board Electric Skateboard critiques!
Halo Board Specifications
|Deck Length
|37 in / 94 cm
|97 mm Halo Street Wheels – 74a
|29 in / 73.5 cm
|Aluminum 12-inch Double-Kingpin
|Ergonomic Bluetooth Halo Remote
|Weight Limit
|286 lbs
|Charge Time
|4 – 5 hours
|Safe Battery
|10.4Ah Certified FireSafe Lithium-Ion Battery
|For Ages
|10 and up
Best Skateboard
Product Reviews
Halo Beast Skateboard
Halo Board Portsmouth – Living in the city or on campus can be great, but at the same time, it can be a hassle getting around. Sometimes you end up limited to space, have to deal with bike thieves, and need to get places fast. Halo Board has created a solution to your problem with the Halo Skateboard.
Halo skateboard offers incredible performance and reliability at an incredible price. The electric skateboard turns heads everywhere it goes. With speed, precision, and balance, you can fly by with the sleek carbon fiber perfection of the Halo Board.
Halo Rover-X
Our son absolutely loved the Halo Rover X he got for his birthday. The construction quality is excellent. I know this because my son was ensuring his friends were buckled up and forgot he left his Halo in the parking lot. He then proceeded to back up over it with his diesel truck.
He was so disappointed and is currently working and saving money for the exact came Halo Rover X. I've included a pic of the parts I salvaged because they are so well made and you never know! Even the axles are still straight after being run over by a Dodge 2500. Thanks for making such an outstanding product.


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Azure Certifications Updates
It has been just about a month and a half since my first day at Microsoft! I'll soon be in the field helping customers on their journey to the cloud. As part of my training I've been able to obtain three Azure certifications I've been looking to obtain for some time!
It feels great to validate my knowledge on Azure especially in the Development and DevOps areas. I'm also happy to say that I am now a Microsoft Certified Trainer! This will assist me in training customers on new Azure technologies and validates my experience in the field. As a result I've updated my professional profile here on the blog. I do intend to continue publishing content here, but it will still be a bit of time before that happens while I get ramped up in my new role.


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During my search, I have been through many malls and have taken notice of their Christmas attractions to share them with you.
City Place Square
One of my favorite malls is City Place Square Shopping Center located in between 168 Mall and 999 Mall. It offers the best bargains and it is not as crowded as its neighboring malls.
Harrison Plaza
Robinson's Place Midtown
This tall Christmas tree with blue lights and ribbons can be found at Robinson's midtown atrium.
Shangrila Plaza
It's a sweet and delicious Christmas at Shangrila Plaza. I loved the creativity of their decor. It was very colorful and nostalgic. It reminds me of my childhood Christmas when I used to wake up with my Christmas socks filled with candies.
SM Megamall
SM Megamall has a wonderful decor at its Atrium. It's Santa and his reindeers on their way up to deliver gifts.
SM Mall of Asia
SM Mall of Asia's Christmas village is still the most interactive Christmas attraction I've seen.
Care to share where did you shop and what Christmas attractions did you like the most too?
Well, I got to go and spend some quality Christmas dinner time with family and relatives. Merry Christmas!!!


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Camp Bisco Color War XI: The Aquatic Ape, will return for its 11th season this year on Friday, July 15 at Montage Mountain. Now in its second year at the venue, patrons of the festival and Color War faithful will be much more well equipped to deal with the inclined terrain that the venue offers in spades.
Offering a plethora of new events that utilize the Mountain's stage-side water park, including the Above the Wave Pool Race and High Speed River Racer, means that Bisconauts can stay cool while the competition heats up. Even the onsite zip line will be taken advantage of in the finale of the Montage Highwire Marathon. In addition to the already well loved Disco Biscuits themed games that Camp Bisco Color War has to offer, these new events will assist in truly making Color War great again.
Color War began in 2005 at the fourth Camp Bisco, and has been growing in momentum and notoriety ever since. Die hard Biscuits fan and founder Yancy Davis catalyzed its advent by combining two of his favorite passions; the Disco Biscuits and friendly organized sports. Most of the events in the first couple of years are very familiar, such as tug-o-war, a three legged race, and the ever perilous egg toss. More and more Biscuits references snuck their way into the fabric of Color Wars throughout the passing seasons, including Mr. Don's Mustache, telling your own Nughuffer story, and the Bernstein and Bacon-off best-bacon-frier competition. That trend continues in the water park this year, giving this 11th installation the honor of being named after a true Biscuits classic, Aquatic Ape.
Four teams to choose from means more options in the already astounding list that Color War XI: The Aquatic Ape has to offer. Three time back-to-back champions Purple Reign are looking to remain the reigning kings of Color War. New World Orange are also three time conquerors, though it has been years since these underdogs claimed the throne. Returning from earlier years will be the Greenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, as well as the ferocious Pink Hydra Squad.
Camp Bisco attendees will have a lot to think about this year when stepping foot on the Color War field, especially if they plan to participate in another new event called I Want to Be Barber; a costume contest wherein contestants attempt to mimic Disco Biscuits' guitarist Jon "The Barber" Gutwillig's legendary stage outfits. Often imitated but never duplicated, such a challenge has never been met on the Camp Bisco lot.
Anyone who wishes to participate in Color War XI need only go to campbiscocolorwar.com and complete the quick registration form, or simply show up at 12PM on Friday, July 15 at the water park. Conveniently located next to the Above the Waves stage, Color Warriors won't need to miss any of their favorite bands or DJs during the festivities. Word has been getting around that some celebrity members of said bands may even help in judging some of the competitions. Only one thing is certain for the outcome of Color War XI: The Aquatic Ape: Camp Bisco and Color War will be a little wetter forever.


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League of Legends cosplayer goes viral on TikTok as dazzling K/DA Ahri
League of Legends cosplayer goes viral on TikTok as dazzling K/DA Ahri
Snitchery, an immensely popular cosplayer with almost 2 million followers, left League of Legends fans speechless with an incredible take on K/DA Ahri, and it's gone viral on TikTok.
League of Legends cosplayers never fail to impress. We've seen them bring many champions to life throughout 2021, including Diana, Lux, Xayah, and more. However, four K/DA members have been the most popular.
Akali, Evelynn, and Kai'Sa get lots of love. However, Ahri, the leader and founder of the virtual K-pop–group, is the most in-demand.
It was only a matter of time before Snitchery, a popular figure in the cosplay scene, decided to give it a go, and it was a smash hit among fans and followers. The fact it even went viral on TikTok speaks volumes.
The video shows her transforming from her usual look into K/DA Ahri. Not only did she do a good job of creativity capturing the process of slowly turning into the character, but she also nailed the costume, ears, hair, and make-up.
Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates on Esports, Gaming and more.
It's blowing up on the platform, drawing almost 50,000 likes and 200 comments in less than two weeks. But it's not all that surprising given her track record of top-tier cosplays. After all, Snitchery is an expert in the field.
Snitchery made waves in January 2021 after signing with Gen.G, an esports organization that competes in League of Legends, Overwatch, Valorant, and more, along with another talented cosplayer, Emily Ghoul.
Since then, her massive following across all social platforms has grown even more. It seems like people can't get enough of her amazing cosplays, ourselves included. We look forward to seeing what she's got in store next!


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(Gorey, Edward)
The Retrieved Locket.
(N.p.): Fantod Press, 1994. First edition. One of twenty-six lettered copies signed by Gorey. Tells the story of the Fibleys' missing infant daughter, Amelia Emily, and her uncanny transformation. Fine in illustrated wrappers. Item #31157
(Toledano A112a).
Price: $650.00
More Items in: Illustrated Books
By This Author: Edward Gorey
By This Illustrator: Gorey, Edward
By This Publisher: Gorey, Edward


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6601 N 40th St.
Milwaukee, WI 53209
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Phone: 414-353-7500
Fax: 414-353-7507
Thank you for your interest in Cogmatic flame machining. We're eager to hear about your projects or questions. Please fill out the following information and someone will get back to you as soon as possible.
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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]The Cares Act authorized $100 Billion for a Relief Fund for practices and hospitals. Medical practices are to receive $50 Billion, with Hospitals, providers in rural areas, and other targets to receive the other $50 Billion. These funds are grants – they need not be repaid – provided the practice attests that they won't be used for certain prohibited purposes. (The restrictions are few and specific – unlikely to affect most practices.) The first $30 Billion was pushed out directly into the accounts for any practice that received Medicare payments in 2019. This was done for logistical reasons, as funds could be distributed quickly because the payment mechanisms are already in place.
The next $20 Billion has been released for distribution, but all practices are eligible, not just practices billing Medicare. In order to receive funds in this second distribution, the practice must apply online – which is the same process as the attestation of proper use. Total distribution is based on your 2019 total Gross Receipts or Sales, as documented in your 2019 Federal Tax Return. If you did receive funds in the first distribution, you may still be eligible for more, so be sure the complete the attestation HERE.
The original attestation deadline was 30 days following receipt of the initial funds, which was on or about April 10th for most practices. This has been extended to 45 days. For an estimate of your total eligibility, take the 2019 total Gross Receipts or Sales and divide by 50. If you already received funds in the first distribution, the amount received will be included in the eligibility total.
It is unclear if there are enough funds available for all eligible practices, so you should go online and attest/apply as soon as possible. You will need your 2019 tax return. Again, here is the attestation https://covid19.linkhealth.com/docusign/#/step/1
For more details on the program, visit the Provider Relief Fund page on the HHS website: https://www.hhs.gov/coronavirus/cares-act-provider-relief-fund/index.html[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]


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Mother's Day Floral Blush Personalised Wreath A3 or A4
The Floral Blush Wreath can be personalised in three ways:
Chose to have initials or an image of a loved one at the centre of the wreath.
Should you chose to have an image, you will be contacted after your purchase requesting an image to be sent. This will be printed in a polaroid format and fixed to the print.
Below the wreath you can then personalise further with the following information:
- Line 1: Initial at centre of wreath
- Line 2 : Name eg. Mum, Nan Jayne
- Line 3 : eg. Quote, Message, Children's Names, Grandchildren's Names, Est 1990
Artwork dimensions A4 or A3.
Non framed prints come with the option of printing a gift message on the back, please write this message in the comments section of the checkout page.
Artwork is printed on high quality 300 gsm Card.
Individual prints come wrapped in a Glassine envelope & delivered in a protective card back envelope.
Please allow up to 7 days delivery for non framed prints & up to 14 days delivery for framed prints.
Due to the nature of our business all prints & cards are non refundable as they are made to order.
If you receive your order and there is an issue please contact us immediately & we will do our best to help.


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Stanford Hotels Corp. is taking its plans for a 15-story hotel at 300 Terry Ave. in front of the design review board tonight in hopes to kickstart development by late 2014. The hotel will include approx. 283 rooms, a conference center, restaurant and roof garden. The total square-footage will top out around 139K. There won't be any parking on site, but there are nearby garages as well as a streetcar stop. It's TBD who the official hotel brand will be, though with a location close to Amazon, it should make for an attractive property.
· Developer eyes 2014 start for 15-story South Lake Union hotel [PSBJ]
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I am Jemma Palmer, owner of Halo & Wren Bridal. Halo & Wren is a modern bridal store located in Old Town, Hemel Hempstead, Herts.
Halo & Wren has a small team of stylists and an in house seamstress. It's very much for the non traditional bride or the brides who don't want to look like all of her friends. H&W is a nationally renowned boutique for its welcoming and relaxed bridal shopping experience, independent designers and doing bridal the modern way.
What made you want to start a bridal boutique?
The boutique was started after my own bridal shopping experience didn't meet my expectations, I found my gown on Pinterest, only to discover there was only one stockist in Mayfair, London and the gown started at £6500.00.
I subsequently started an 18 month journey visiting lots of local boutiques and further afield into London, locally I was disappointed with the overwhelming amount of mainstream traditional gowns that didn't represent my relaxed, modern wedding or myself. In London, I found more gowns but was treated as a number and at some places almost an inconvenience, my budget of £2000.00 didn't really get me many options. I certainly wasn't made to feel special or did I really enjoy the whole experience like I thought I would.
Because I couldn't find what I wanted I even had a replica gown made in China, it was terrible, I tried on second hand gowns, I went to number just sample sales, I didn't find my gown but I was learning and noticing that there was a huge gap for a modern, cool, affordable and welcoming boutique where you're looked after and made to feel special whilst having an amazing selection of gowns.
Once married I was very lucky to have my children quickly and whilst my Son was a baby with some financial loans from my Mum, I took the plunge and started H&W in February 2017 with renovating an old florist to a beautiful boutique on the Old High St, Hemel. Fast forward to 2021 and we have moved shops to a much larger store this time renovating an old Italian restaurant to be the new chicer and utterly stunning H&W.
What's different about the Halo & Wren experience?
Halo & Wren cares, that's the real difference, it's a passion project that's just exploded. I know that I have an eye for what my brides want so I am able to pick the best gowns for my modern, relaxed bride. They want what I want, they are me, just younger.
H&W isn't afraid to lose a sale because we don't have the right dress, it's non pressured and oh so chilled, so brides know we have their best interests at heart.
The team and I are completely transparent and give constructive advice on styling and what works. We won't let a bride purchase a gown unless they look and feel exactly what they looking for.
My designers are world leading, independent creatives who design gowns for brides that want to make a statement for the right reasons.
We love what we have seen of your new boutique! Can you tell us a little about your reasons for moving and also how the renovation project's been?
August 2020 was my busiest Month ever, I had worked hard on the socials over the first lockdown and it gave me an opportunity to really shout to my audience about what makes us the best.
The larger shop came available and I took the jump, you can't grow without risk and in the middle of the pandemic taking on a renovation and a store that is four times the size was a huge risk but I knew that Rob (my husband) and I were capable of achieving this and I had a strong vision what I wanted it to look and feel like.
The biggest risk was the staff as it's always been me full time with one day a week from my one of my team Sam and the seamstress Sarah.
For me, I was worried that having staff would mean that I lost what made H&W so unique and my interview process involved me taking them in the middle of the renovations when we didn't even have walls. But ALL of the team have blown my mind, they're all incredible, they hit the floor running and they get it. They get the vibe that we deliver to the brides, and I couldn't be happier to have such an amazing team by my side.
What should all brides know, but no one ever talks about?
Oh man, I could fill this section over and over again.
But I think a few things; the gowns in store are one size, we don't have more 'out the back' his means you have to try on a gown that very very likely won't fit you. It's essential to put faith in us and the process that the gown will fit and be even better than the sample because it will fit!
Alterations are not a Prosecco filled experience, when you get to the fit stage, it's down to business, fittings are a process meaning that when one thing is altered it may have knock on effects to another area and again trust the seamstress but remain flexible and understand that you may need more than one or two or three fittings! And alterations are not included in the cost of the gown.
The average price of a gown in H&W is £2700 we do have whole ranges around £2200-2400 and we have ranges for more money including our Jane Hill label is which £3740-4300, understand that these are handmade, made to order premium gowns.
Sometimes I want brides to visit other stores first so when they come to H&W they can really appreciate the difference in quality and environment.
What is your absolute favourite bridal trend of the moment?
My favourite trend at the moment is definitely the psychological trend of having exactly what you want. After the worst 18 months of most people's lives I'm loving seeing brides just choosing something that makes them feel incredible. Listening less to the opinions of others and wanting a gown that ensures they feel incredible and have the best time. This almost transcends into accessories, veils, sleeves, second dresses, two/three day weddings, smaller guest lists. Cut out what you don't want or need and just make yourselves happy.
What do you love about being located in Hemel Old Town?
I love the Old Town, I'm from Hemel and I think it's just a special place, I looked into renting in St Albans but it's flooded with bridal boutiques, I wanted to be close to London as a large percentage of my brides travel out from London, Luton airport is a bonus too with brides travelling from abroad to visit. Locally I looked at Harpenden and Berkhamsted too, but the rents were so high for not very much.
Old Town Hemel has retained its character and I love that it's not 'perfect' it's real, you can grab an Uber to the train station in 6 minutes, you can get a coffee or dinner, walk the park and visit the gardens all with free parking for an hour and all day larking for £1.70! The shop and the vibe is non pretentious and seemingly the bridal boutique industry is full of it so I wanted an area that doesn't pretend to be anything else than what it is. All of our visitors are surprised when they visit and comment on how pretty it is.
Right now we have Tom Hanks & Steven Spielberg filming on the Old High St, it's just one of the places.
If I was getting married again, I would…
Be more open minded about my dress choice, take a risk. The only regrets bride have from their weddings are playing it safe!
Check out Halo & Wren on our directory here


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An international team of researchers has used sound waves to estimate the composition of the Earth's upper mantle and they think that about a quadrillion tons of diamonds are buried somewhere over 160 kilometers (100 miles) deep beneath our feet.
The new research is reported in the journal Geochemistry, Geophysics, Geosystems and is based on decades of seismic activity data. Seismographers register the waves from all the movements within the Earth, such as earthquakes. They are mechanical waves moving at certain speeds depending on the material they go through.
Based on the data, the researchers have tried to reconstruct what the interior of the Earth is like. And that's where they stumbled upon something interesting. There are certain areas in which the seismic waves tend to speed up without explanation. These regions are called cratonic roots and are the oldest and most immovable sections of continental tectonic plates. These are sometimes seen as upside-down mountains stretching as deep as 320 kilometers (200 miles).
To explain the seismic data, the team started playing with the possible composition of these roots. They arrived at the conclusion that if these structures contain between 1 and 2 percent diamond, then the speed of the seismic waves makes sense. This might not seem much in terms of the total amount of material in the crust and mantle, but it is 1,000 times more diamonds than expected.
"This shows that diamond is not perhaps this exotic mineral, but on the [geological] scale of things, it's relatively common," senior author Dr Ulrich Faul of MIT said in a statement. "We can't get at them, but still, there is much more diamond there than we have ever thought before."
"It's circumstantial evidence, but we've pieced it all together," Faul added. "We went through all the different possibilities, from every angle, and this is the only one that's left as a reasonable explanation."
Diamonds are formed under extremely high-temperature and high-pressure conditions found below Earth's crust. The reason why they are rare is that they only get close to the surface in specific eruptions that carve out geological pipes made of a rock called kimberlite. A large concentration of them deep below the crust, then, is not too bizarre of a hypothesis.


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Well, the title says it all really…
According to his Blog, Gerald del Campo has resigned from the OTO after 20 years membership.
I have just been suspended from OTO myself for having had the audacity to claim that I had 20 years worth of emails and other documenst proving how badly the ball had been dropped, how people had been wronged, and even some documents that showed GL officers abusing power or involved in activities one would think was unbecoming of those positions. I have submitted notice of my resignation just now. A proper letter of resignation will be submitted to Sabazius in the next few days.
For those that don't know the name, Gerald has been an influential Thelemite, having written two rather good books: New Aeon Magick: Thelema Without Tears and New Aeon English Qabalah Revealed.


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The Yaya Han Fall 2022 Collection is a mix of one-of-a-kind fabrics with beautiful patterns, bright colors, and unique textures. Perfect for cosplay, costumes, fashion, fabric accessories, or any garments and pieces that are sure to make a statement! Synchronize into your assassin cosplay with this Byzantine Brocade! It features a metallic raised texture that is perfect for vests, coats, and capes. This lightweight brocade can also be used for historical costuming, dresses, and other ornate designs.
Content: 83% Polyester, 17% Metallic
Width: 56"
Care Instructions: Dry clean only


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Women still under-represented in European politics
Brussels — Women have certainly boosted their presence in European governments, thanks in part to electoral quotas but are still under-represented despite high profile exceptions like Angela Merkel and Margaret Thatcher.
"Still today in governments and parliaments, less than a quarter of members are women," complained Margot Wallstrom, the Swedish vice president of the European Commission ahead of International Women's Day on Sunday."There is no lack of female candidates. The reality is men tend to choose men."
"One half of the population is seriously under-represented" and this being the case "the policy agenda will be set by men," Wallstrom said during an EU parliamentary debate this week.
According to a study by the commission, the EU's executive arm, even if there are increasing numbers of women candidates their male counterparts still have a better chance of getting elected due to ingrained prejudices and customs.
The study extrapolated data from across Europe to show that "an election with 50 percent women candidates would result in a parliament with just 39 percent women members or, putting it another way, there would need to be 63 percent women candidates to achieve parity in the final assembly!"
"It's wrong to blame women voters. The main problem is that male voters vote for male candidates," argues Drude Dahlerup, a professor in the department of political science at Stockholm University.
"We are changing from the idea that equality will come by itself — today we realise this is not the way things work," added Dahlerup, who has researched gender quota systems.
Even when people like Thatcher, Britain's only female prime minister, do reach the top there is no guarantee that they will bring other women with them.
"Margaret Thatcher broke through the glass ceiling in politics," Patricia Hewitt, a minister under former Labour PM Tony Blair, said. "But it is a tragedy that, having become the UK's first women prime minister, she did so much to undermine the position of women in society."
According to the European Commission study, none of the 27 EU member states' lower chambers of parliament currently has half or more women deputies.
The closest is Sweden with 46 percent women, followed by the Netherlands and Finland with 41 percent.
Most chambers have less than a quarter of their seats occupied by women, with Hungary (10.9 percent), Romania (10.1 percent) and Malta (8.7 percent) bringing up the rear.
The EU parliament comes in above average in the female representation stakes with 31.2 percent.
EU Employment Commissioner Vladimir Spidla stressed that when women's names are on electoral lists, they must be placed high up on those lists if the problem is to be addressed.
Brussels would also like to see big business become more feminine.
Today, European women occupy just 11 percent of company directors' seats and only three percent of CEOs.
"Equal representation of women and men in positions of power is, I sincerely believe, a precondition for truly effective and accountable democracy and lasting economic prosperity," said Spidla.
Wallstrom pointed out that the female quotient within the European Commission was at a record high, though the numbere still stands at 10 out of 27 and no woman has held the top spot as commission president.
Thatcher, according to another female heavyweight of British politics Lady Williams, did understand that women were at a disadvantage in politics.
The former prime minister once told her: "We have to show them that we are better than them."
Catherine Marciano/AFP/Expatica


text: Lubbock RTC: Mrs MAC class planted beans early April. The plants have grown but not yet fully grown. Mentoring is a very important part of Children's Hope. If you are a mentor, you will be able to spend one-on-one-time with a child who is eligible to participate in the program. Mentors develop wonderful relationships with our children and have the opportunity to love them unconditionally and be a positive role model in their life. Family Enrichment Coordinator Prencess Sneed can be reached at (806) 626-2409.


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PE&N Sinterina wedding
An intimate country wedding for a fantastic couple we will always remember! We followed official guidelines regarding events in the Covid-19 era, and managed to create a beautiful celebration nevertheless. We mixed long bare tables with square tables covered in sand color and green/white checkered tablecloths, and kept the forest theme with dark wood details throughout! Hundreds of candles, hanging decorative chickenwire lamps and string lights gave an overall cozy and elegant vibe!
Full screen


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CONTACT US: 7358063902, 7358063903 | firstname.lastname@example.com
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Regardless of the type of event you are planning, an event manager can help you reach the goal of a flawless, memorable event with much less stress.


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Masterplan release version of Helloween's "Escalation 666" for streaming
Masterplan release version of Helloween's "Escalation 666" for streaming
Masterplan featuring former Helloween guitarist Roland Grapow have released another song from their upcoming new album PumpKings, which will be released via AFM Records on July 28, 2017 and which contains Masterplan's versions of Helloween songs co-written or written by Grapow. After releasing a lyric video for "The Chance", Masterplan have now released the song "Escalation 666" for streaming.
Sleaze Roxx stated the following in its review of Masterplan's PumpKings: "Was it a good idea for Masterplan to re-record the various Helloween songs from Grapow's time in the band? Sure it was! Did Masterplan improve upon any of Helloween's versions of the songs? Probably not. Nevertheless, it's fun to revisit all of these Helloween classics on one album and it's a nod to Grapow on the significant writing contributions that he made to Helloween during his time in that band."
Masterplan's "Escalation 666" song:
MASTERPLAN – Escalation 666 (2017) // Official Audio //AFM Records
MASTERPLAN – Escalation 666 (2017) // official audio video //AFM RecordsSubscribe to AFM Records here: http://bit.ly/1Ag5sAW"Escalation 666″ is taken from th…


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Tipy na darčeky
Vianočná charita
Sponzorované odkazy
Once in Royal David's CityOnce in royal Davids city,
Stood a lowly cattle shed,
Where a mother laid her Baby,
In a manger for His bed:
Mary was that mother mild,
Jesus Christ, her little Child.
He came down to earth from heaven,
Who is God and Lord of all,
And His shelter was a stable,
And His cradle was a stall:
With the poor, and mean, and lowly,
Lived on earth our Saviour holy.
For He is our childhood's pattern;
Day by day, like us, He grew;
He was little, weak, and helpless,
Tears and smiles, like us He knew;
And He cares when we are sad,
And he shares when we are glad.
And our eyes at last shall see Him,
Through His own redeeming love;
For that Child so dear and gentle,
Is our Lord in heaven above:
And He leads His children on,
To the place where He is gone.
Sponzorované odkazy
84 dní, 5 hodín a 52 minút


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It's 6:15 on a Saturday morning. The alarm is a cruel reminder of my agreeing to go to a football game. He offers to make breakfast and leaves me to sleep another 15 minutes. But I'm awake now, alone with my thoughts, dream recollections and mental to-do lists of things I should be doing instead of laying here. I shift to where he was sleeping for extra warmth–small wins–and rummage through the mess: 4 articles to write, 2 emails, 3 assignments, 16 pages to proofread, message Eli, buy milk, book dinner, panic–did I take out the bins this week?
I close my eyes to escape the awake and re-visit last night's dreams instead. To my dismay, I remember bleak skies, strolling the eastern freeway, a multi-car accident, windows smashing, chewing on broken glass, gums bleeding, pulling debris from my tongue… The familiar smell of scrambled eggs and coffee takes me out of my head and toward the kitchen. He plays soft music as he cooks which, thankfully, keeps me here.
At the game, I am merely a spectator–the kind of painfully idle role I hadn't assumed in a long time. As the first quarter begins, I catch myself tracing the word 'spectator' on my quivering knee over and over, and then I force a fist to stop my fingers from writing, typing, twiddling–things they'd usually be doing by now, things I'm craving.
Here, I have no duties, no responsibilities, no obligations other than to keep an eye on my player, so not to miss any vital marks, kicks, injuries… how often do people get injured in football games? He's not wearing a mouthguard, could his teeth cave in? I think of teeth crumbling, glass breaking, gums bleeding–stop, focus. Where's my player?
The second quarter begins. A man tackles and another falls, I think of war. A driver beeps, I turn to look. A child laughs loudly on the sidelines, I think of innocence. Her mother shushes her, I think:
Innocence died screaming
I've lost my player again. I'm still tracing 'spectator' on my knee, followed by 'incompetent'.
At half-time, I walk to the playground, where I relish in aloneness instead of restlessness. I hear mum's voice telling me to stay in the moment, so I make a half-hearted effort to, as she'd say, take in my surroundings: spectators jabbering about last night's game, shivering mothers in their activewear sipping hot coffee, the cool breeze on my ankles, dogs sitting patiently, adults speaking loudly, children yawning, the smell of cigarette smoke, cigarettes and coffee… I close my eyes, sway slightly on the swing, rest my head on the chain, and conjure up the soulful voice:
It's early in the morning
About a quarter till three
I'm sittin' here talkin' with my baby
Over cigarettes and coffee, now
But, like a gliding bird that slams into a window, my Otis-eased mind is interrupted by a chirpy young voice as the siren sounds for quarter three.
'Hi, I'm Isla!'
Her perk is unfathomable to me. But still, I smile.
'My name's Isla!' she repeats aggressively, demanding a response.
'That's a beautiful name,' I appease her.
'Thanks! What's yours?'
Apparently, I've invited her to tell me her life story. I'm amazed by her confidence, and so my focus shifts between her and the game and suddenly I'm here again.
She spews words at me so quickly and for so long that I eventually make a game of trying to remember as much as I can. But I become so concerned with this challenge that I forget to pay attention to much of what she says. At the end of our conversation, here's what I remember:
Isla is 9 years old.
She has two brothers: Jack, who is 12, and Gavin, 17.
Her dad is playing in the game today.
She brought a doll but can't remember where she left it.
Her family has three dogs.
One dog is blind, one is a Boston Terrier and one's name is Douglass.
She barracks for Richmond.
'Just because we barrack for different teams, doesn't mean we can't be friends.'
Her favourite subjects at school are Maths, Science, Art and Music. (This was the only question I actually asked her.)
Isla has a nasty habit of biting her nails. She doesn't tell me this, but I catch her doing it between sentences, reminding me of my sister's vexing old habits. Again, I spiral. I think of nails against blackboards, babies crying on aeroplanes, dentist drills, glass smashing, couples fighting in moving cars, neglected children. I even think of my first-and-last trip to the nail salon, where I sat cringing as the technician ground sandpaper rapidly and uncontrollably against my fingernail. The thought makes me squirm in the swing seat, and I'm hearing mum's voice again, so I tune back in to Isla.
When I re-join our conversation, I learn:
Isla prefers the big swing to the baby swing, so we switch.
My 22-year-old body doesn't fit so well in a baby swing.
But I don't care.
Because I make her laugh so loud that I recognise the sound from earlier.
And her mother isn't here to silence her.
The fourth quarter begins and as kids often do, Isla gets bored and eventually leaves to find her doll. I sit somewhat still, at the mercy of my distractions, and watch the rest of the game in comfortable silence. I try not to think, though now that I do think, I'm craving a hot shower. Lately, I've been using the fogged-up shower door to plan my day, which is ridiculous, when I think about it now.
When the game is over, I ask to drive us home. Driving has become my new escape, having recently replaced sleep. Since my dreams are no longer sweet, and my time is no longer mine, the drives in between home and school and work have now become my peaceful place; my hands have no choice but to stay on the wheel and my eyes are forced to focus.
And so, I drive us home in the warmth of his post-game glow and to the soothing sounds of Otis Redding. Every green light takes me out of my head, where tasks and duties are now stacked neatly for me to deal with later.
To-do: be here, now.
Photo by Kira Hartley. Used with permission.
Vanessa De Lutiis is a student, copywriter and serial over-thinker. She is grateful for solitary runs, home-cooked meals and the musical power of instruments combined. She is slowly working on how to translate her overactive imagination into words.


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Proudly Serving All of the Austin Metroplex
Specialists in everything pool related…regular cleaning, maintenance, repair service, warranty, and upgrades.
About Prime Pool Service
Prime Pool Service is a full-service pool cleaning, repair, and maintenance company servicing both residential and commercial customers. We pride ourselves on being the most professional pool service company in Austin and want the chance to earn your business. Our experience, pride of workmanship, and our commitment that every one of our employees has the prestigious "Certified Pool Operator" (CPO) designation guarantee the highest quality pool service available. Don't trust a large investment such as your pool to some half-baked individual, call us today and experience the Prime Pool Difference!
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(512) 441-3473
Our SERVICES
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MAINTENANCE – A swimming pool is a major investment. Protect yours with a pool maintenance package from Prime Pool Service. As an established Austin, TX business, we service pools of all makes and sizes. From seasonal inspections to more extensive maintenance, we have the tools and experience necessary to keep your pool looking its best. And by investing in pool maintenance, you'll be lowering your chances of encountering a major issue with your pool when you want to use it the most.
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For every one of our full service customers we:
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- Monitor and prevent "Combined Chlorine" buildup which is the cause of foul chlorine smells and irritated eyes
- Monitor and maintain water balance to prevent expensive damage to pool surfaces and equipment
- Provide thorough pool cleaning each and every time
- Brush your pool walls to extend the life of your pool surface and prevent harmful "black algae"
- Maintain your filtration system to protect your family and friends from harmful bacteria, viruses, and "Recreational Water Illnesses" (RWI)
- Verify pool equipment and pool systems operation
- Proactively communicate with you
Proudly Serving the Greater Austin Area Including Georgetown, Round Rock, Pflugerville, Leander, Cedar Park, Lago Vista, Jonestown, Steiner Ranch, Westlake Hills, Lakeway, Barton Creek.
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What People ARE SAYING
Prime Pool comes weekly to do chlorine testing and make sure our pool stays clean and clear. Recently, the heater broke. They checked it out and sent us an email outlining exactly what needed to be done and how much it would cost. After we approved the repair, they repaired the heater within 48 hours again following up with an email that the work was completed."
~ Terry Myers | Pool Cleaning in Austin 5/5
Prime Pool Service took over servicing my pool when the owner of the previous company we used (since 1996!) retired. The transition was seamless. The techs show up on time, they're professional and helpful, and our pool looks great!"
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~ Gene L. | Pool Cleaning in Austin 5/5
Have Questions?


text:
Spreading love and joy one squishie at a time
Happy customers and counting...
New Arrivals
People Who Love Squishies
113,000 Followers
13,800 Followers
74,300 Followers
72,200 Followers
50,100 Followers
Our Happy Customers
"SO BIG. SO CHONK. SO SOFT. I have never made a better impulse purchase at like 4:30 am. I love him hes perfect!! His name is almond joy. thank you for my new quarantine buddy"
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Plushie is identical to the photos!
"Plushy is identical to the photos and is incredibly high quality. I am pleasantly surprised by the quality of this plush because let's be honest usually it never corresponds 100% to the photos but I'm surprised!! I will be buying again!"
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The perfect gift!
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Very satisfied with the order. The plushy is exactly as in the picture: very soft, bright. My daughter was delighted. Thank you very much!!!
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Can't go to sleep without it!
I can't go to sleep with Sumo! I find so much comfort in him and I have to take him everywhere. He is so bubbly and CUTE!
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Stress Reliever!
"Tato is the best stress reliever"
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Perfect Body Pillow!
"The perfect body pillow! There is a zipper on the back to remove for easy washing."
David Salazar


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There are a raft of great law events that have been taking place over the last few weeks and a lot of the content has centered around the innovation functions within law firms.
I was present for a really engaging panel discussion around how to build an innovation team at the recent legal innovators event last week with some heavy hitters from 4 large law firms including Shilpa Bhandarker (Linklaters), Elaine Kehew (Anjarwalla & Khanna), Jane Stewart (Slaughter and May), and Karyn Harty (McCann Fitzgerald) on the panel. Interestingly, they were flanked by a vendor (Relativity) and Julius Reves from recruitment firm Totum Partners. There were some great questions that formed the framework for the main discussion points. I did some digging before that and found a useful article here that mirrored a lot of the discussion but importantly covered off why the Innovation team and indeed buzz world, is on everyone's lips at the moment. The main reason is that clients are driving and demanding change and added value from their law firms. Change doesn't, of course, come easy in traditional places like law firms and so a lot of what the innovation team does is create a buzz in the first instance and then often become the change agents internally.
How does the team start out?
All panelists started small in terms of growing it out from just themselves but Jane Stewart had the quickest route by 'stealing' the knowledge team at Slaughter & May after proving the case for innovation. Elaine Kehew found it important to include a senior fee earner as part of the team to help drive change forward and Karyn Harty found that having a number of innovation ambassadors (mainly fee earners) dotted around the firm has been more fruitful than having one team. Interestingly the recruitment take from Julius was that candidates sourced are from all different backgrounds including fee earners, tech and knowledge management.
Where do the necessary skills come from?
Elaine suggested that because the pool of talent is so much smaller in Africa, they have had more success grooming legal technologists internally. She also highlighted that normally this is from grassroots up as it just doesn't work or is too slow the other way round!. Jane pointed to the fact that hiring ex-lawyers has had its benefits but stressed that having the right mix of data, enthusiasm, knowledge and willingness is the key. Karyn had a brilliant take on it and explained that their diverse team was recently added to when they hired a midwife. She also made a point that the cultural fit is a big thing at McCann Fitzgerald especially when pure-play tech candidates haven't always worked out. The panel unanimously agreed that mentoring, coaching and of course leadership are all huge factors in developing skills and making the team a success.
How do you measure success in the innovation team?
This was a hard one to quantify and measure for most of the panel but where possible it was agreed that it falls on the client. If the clients are happy and even better, if savings and cuts have been made, then success has been achieved. Jane pointed to the fact that data is key in helping benchmark and deliver success metrics. She also highlighted their innovation blog as really useful to bring tentacles into all areas of the business.
Are techies and innovators the same?
The general consensus from the panel was no on this question although it was widely agreed that there is room for both in the team. Shilpa explained the fact that the techies have a very different viewpoint and set of skills at Linklaters that aren't always aligned to experimentation and sand boxing. The techies should work very closely with innovation but should ultimately be separate. They have a culture within the firm whereby fee earners can drop in and put forward innovative prototypes. Elaine pointed to there being a big divide between the two within Anjarwalla & Khanna whereas Karyn highlighted that separating the two out hasn't worked well- the organic approach being the best foot forward.
In Conclusion:
All of the law firms on the panel have committed considerably to making the innovation team a thing. They have all invested time, resource and a sprinkling of good faith in building and building out teams to take their firms forward and service the ever-growing demands of clients. It is very evident that to keep evolving, these teams will be central to the future-proofing of law firm and client relationships but also to help drive change internally. The innovation team isn't just a nice to have or a trend, it is here to stay.


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All Israel will be saved" (Rom. 11:26).1 Confronted with this statement, commentators usually ask, "Which Israel, physical or spiritual?" "Physical Israel" is Jews who are physical descendants of Abraham, considered by many to still be God's chosen people. "Spiritual Israel" is believers in Jesus. Those who hold to a "spiritual Israel" concept will often believe that physical Israel was once God's people, but their rejection of Jesus meant that God moved on. He offered the gospel to all the nations, and the community of faith in Jesus became "spiritual Israel"; spiritual in the sense that they have no physical ancestry in Abraham but are counted as God's people by faith.
Physical Israel?
Is the concept of "physical Israel," either now or in Old Testament times, biblical? I believe the answer is no.
Though Abraham had at least eight biological sons (Gen. 16:11; 21:3; 25:1, 2), one became part of the covenant, the others did not (Gen. 21:10; cf Gal. 4:30; Gen. 25:6). Conversely, others not biologically related to Abraham became part of the covenant: "He who is eight days old among you shall be circumcised, every male child in your generations, he who is born in your house or bought with money from any foreigner who is not your descendant . . . . And My covenant shall be in your flesh for an everlasting covenant" (Gen. 17:12, 13, emphasis supplied).
Indeed, one of the reasons God chose Abraham was that he would teach not only his children but all people in his household irrespective of background: " 'For I have chosen him [Abraham], that he may command his children and his household after him to keep the way of the Lord' " (Gen. 18:19, ESV).
Abraham's household was large, numbering probably over a thousand; on one occasion he armed 318 men "born in his own house" (Gen. 14:14) to liberate Lot. That his household may have shared his faith is indicated by the fact that he trusted one of his servants with finding a wife for Isaac and did so by having him swear " 'by the Lord' " (Gen. 24:1–3).
The direct physical descendants of Jacob who entered Egypt numbered 70 (Exod. 1:5). At the Exodus, Israel numbered 600,000 men of military age (Exod. 12:37; cf. Num. 1:46), plus women, children, and elderly men, making a total of somewhere between two million and three million people. No realistic biological growth rates could have produced such growth.
But if we understand Israel inclusively in the sense that Abraham's household was inclusive, then it is much easier to understand the amazing numerical growth. The two to three million who left Egypt then were not biological offspring of Abraham, but all attached to Israel's household, by joining the faith—wives, husbands, servants, helpers, of any and every national background.
Indeed, at the time they left Egypt, a mixed multitude joined Israel (Exod. 12:38), partaking fully of the covenant. The full integration of believing foreigners was evidenced by the fact that one of them, Caleb, became the leader of the largest tribe of Israel, the tribe of Judah (Num. 13:3, 6). There is no reason to assume that such accessions to Israel took place only during the Exodus and not before, albeit in smaller numbers.
When God renewed the covenant with Israel (Exod. 19–24), it was an open covenant. Participation was voluntary. Numerous individuals who had no direct descent from Abraham became part of the covenant. Joseph had married an Egyptian (Gen. 41:45); Moses a Midianite (Exod. 2:16–21); Caleb, already mentioned, was a Kennizite (Num. 32:12); Rahab a Canaanite (Josh. 2:1, 2); Ruth a Moabite (Ruth 1:4); Uriah a Hittite (2 Sam. 11:3). King David himself was only partially Israelite (Ruth 4:17).
Not only individuals but whole groups of foreigners joined the covenant. In addition to the "mixed multitude" already mentioned, Canaanites not destroyed or expelled were eventually integrated, with the Rechabites becoming especially respected for their fidelity to God (Jer. 35:1–19). David's elite bodyguards were Philistines (1 Chron. 18:17) who had presumably converted, for it is hard to imagine David's palace filled with pagans.
Throughout the monarchy there were thousands of foreigners in Israel (1 Chron. 22:2; 2 Chron. 30:25) whom the Septuagint (LXX) calls prosēlutoi, converts.2 In Solomon's time their number was 153,600 (2 Chron. 2:17).
During Esther's time after the collapse of Haman's plot, "many of the people of the land became Jews" (Esther 8:17). Esther 9:27 indicates that this wave of conversions continued even after the momentous events described in the book. Artaxerxes authorized Ezra to appoint judges for the people in the province "beyond the River" who knew the law, and to teach "those who do not know" (Ezra 7:25), possibly an authorization to convert people of other nations.3
During the intertestamental period, the Jewish king, John Hyrcanus, converted the whole nation of the Idumeans (Edomites) to Judaism on the point of the sword.4 Out of them came the notorious family of Herod.5
In New Testament times, the Pharisees were known for their missionary zeal (Matt. 23:15). Synagogues were filled with foreign converts or God-fearers (e.g. Acts 13:16, 26; 16:14; 17:17). Foreigners flocked to Jerusalem to worship during the feasts (John 12:20), with 15 nations mentioned, both "Jews and proselytes" (Acts 2:9–11), as participating in the feast of Pentecost.
God intended the covenant to be open to all nations: " 'My house shall be called a house of prayer for all nations' " (Isa. 56:7). The fact that for a few such as the Moabites there were certain limitations on when they could enter the covenant (Deut. 23:3) indicates that for others access was unhindered.
Not only could any person of any background join the covenant, but those within it could opt out or be forcefully ejected. To be "cut off" from the people of Israel was a punishment for a number of sins (e.g. Exod. 30:33, 38; 31:14; Lev. 7:20, 21, 25, 27). To what extent this was carried out we do not know, but the provision was there. The word apostasy, or "falling away from the faith," is not uncommon in the LXX to describe Israel's sometimes rebellious attitude towards God (e.g. Josh. 22:22; 2 Chron. 29:19).
It is evident, then, that any person of any background could join the covenant and hundreds of thousands (millions?) did so throughout Israel's history; and that anyone of whatever background could choose to exit the covenant.
In today's language we could say that Israel functioned in many ways like a church—people joining and people leaving. Indeed, ekklēsia, "church," is the very word Peter chose to describe Israel of old: "This is he who was in the congregation [ekklēsia] in the wilderness" (Acts 7:38). Lest one be tempted to consider this a lone example, the LXX uses ekklēsia 77 times, almost exclusively as a reference to Israel.
In light of the evidence above, it is unbiblical to speak of "physical Israel," Abraham's physical descendants. Though Israel did exist for much of its Old Testament history as a nation, in God's eyes true membership of Israel depended not on ancestry but on faith (cf. Rom. 2:29). Paul acknowledges this when he points out that out of the whole nation of Israel during the time of Ahab, only 7,000 had remained faithful to God, a remnant, and it was they who constituted the true Israel (Rom. 11:1–5). Biblically therefore, Israel was a spiritual community to/ from which people were added and/ or removed with no consideration of ancestry or race.6
With such a background in mind, we can understand Paul's statement that all Israel will be saved, and the context.
The parable of the olive tree
In Romans 11:16–24 Paul takes this concept of spiritual identity and develops this in order to explain the relationship between the nascent church and Jews who had rejected Jesus. He does so through the parable of the olive tree.
The parable draws from Jeremiah 11:16, 17, where Israel is compared to a " ' "green olive tree, beautiful with good fruit" ' " (11:16, ESV). But because the people had done evil following after Baal, God would burn some of the branches with fire. Part of the reason for this punishment was that they had rejected the warning messages of Jeremiah (Jer. 11:17–23).
Paul employs this parable to explain the relationship between the nascent church and Jews who had rejected Jesus. The olive tree, representing Israel, a covenant community, was once beautiful and complete. But, like Israel rejected Jeremiah—that "gentle lamb" (Jer. 11:19, ESV)—so would they reject another much gentler and greater Lamb, the Lamb of God, Jesus, and lead Him to slaughter. Not only that, but after He rose from the dead and His disciples proclaimed the good news of the resurrection, many Jews still rejected Him.
Paul compares the unbelieving branches in Jeremiah's time that would burn, those Jews who had rejected Jesus, to olive branches "broken off" (Rom. 11:17) "because of unbelief" (11:20). To be broken off means to be excluded from the family of God (11:20, 21).
Two things are important here. First, only dead branches—individu-als who failed to believe—are broken off. The tree itself was not rejected; indeed, it continues to be holy (11:16), to nourish, and to support the remaining branches (11:18). Second, since the tree represents Israel and the unbelieving branches are broken off, it follows that they are no longer part of the tree, no longer part of Israel. No unbelieving branch is part of the true Israel.
With its branches broken, the once beautiful tree now looks tattered. How does God deal with this problem? Branches from other olive trees, wild olive trees, are grafted onto the good olive tree. These branches are individuals from all and any nations who come to have faith in Jesus, both then and now: "you [Christians of all nations], being a wild olive tree, were grafted in among them" (11:17).
An important point needs to be noted here. God does not plant a new tree, the Christian Church. Rather, the once wild branches are grafted onto the same old tree ("grafted in among them" 11:17), which continues to exist and provide nourishment. Since the tree is Israel and the wild branches are grafted onto Israel, they become part of biblical Israel; they are not a new Israel. In a sense, the Israel of the Old Testament that, as we saw, was a spiritual entity, continues to exist and thrive, after it has undergone a process of pruning through the cutting off of unbelieving branches and the adding on of new believing ones.
The tree was once beautiful and complete; then it became tattered because some branches were broken because of unbelief. Now that new branches have been grafted in, the tree is once again beautiful and complete. The new branches become the natural continuation of this wonderful tree.
The church has not replaced Israel. The church is the natural continuation of Israel, just like the branches are the natural continuation of a tree! Believers in Christ are the true Israel.
It is important to note that in taking such an approach, Paul was well within the thinking patterns of his time. The concept of "official" Judaism being in apostasy or "broken off" was not uncommon in the turbulent times of the turn of the era. The Pharisees, who eventually dominated the theological development of Judaism, emerged from pious Jews who rejected the adoption of the high priesthood by the Hasmoneans in the second century Bc and considered themselves as separat-ing from the outlook of the ruling elite.7
Indeed, the name Pharisee derives from the Aramaic, perisa, meaning, "set apart, separated."8 Likewise, the Essenes, who were contemporaries of Jesus and Paul, considered the Jerusalem temple and its priesthood apostate and themselves to be the true Israel. They separated from mainstream Judaism, not only theologically and ceremonially but also physically, by forming the well-known commune in Qumran.9 When Paul therefore considered Jews who had rejected Jesus to be broken branches and believers in Jesus to be the true branches, he was operating within theological grounds that were very familiar to his contemporaries.
Moreover, at this early stage Paul did not anticipate, or at least discuss, the sharp break between Christians and Judaism that began maturing a generation later. At this early stage, Christians were mostly of Jewish background and operating within the context of the synagogue and Judaism. So to see some participants of the synagogue service as healthy branches and others as broken off would be a familiar concept. That Christians and Jews eventually went completely separate ways perhaps serves to reinforce the paradigm Paul was espousing.
"All Israel will be saved"
Paul concludes his parable of the olive tree with the statement with which we began this study—a statement that is often discussed and nearly always misunderstood: "all Israel will be saved" (11:26). The question that is usually asked is, which Israel will be saved, "physical" or "spiritual?"
The key to understand this actually very simple text is to interpret the words in harmony with the parable of the olive tree of which they form the conclusion.
Israel, God's people, was once beautiful and complete. But then "blindness" (NKJV) or a "hardening" (ESV) came in part to Israel (11:25). In other words, some of God's people hardened their hearts (cf. Heb. 4:7).10 They refused to accept the saving work of God in Christ Jesus. The hardening of the hearts parallels the breaking off of some of the branches. So the once beautiful and complete Israel is now tattered, exactly as was the case with the olive tree. The failure of Israel as an Abrahamic covenant community in the rejection of Jesus turned God's expectation of the olive tree into a disappointment. But God's intention for the olive tree is that it should bear fruit—fruit from faith in the grace of God manifested through the cross for the redemption of humanity— cannot and must not fail.
How does God deal with this? He brings in "the fullness of the Gentiles" (11:25). Brings into where? Into Israel, of course, to fill the void left by those whose hearts were hardened. The Greek word plērōma, "fullness," is a verbal noun that indicates something that is partially empty or void being filled up.11 So, the void left by those who failed to believe is filled by the Gentiles who come in and take their place. Paul argues that Gentiles—the wild olive branches, strangers to the covenant—are grafted in, and behold the Christian community of faith—a fruit-bearing tree, gathering in the entire human race.
Paul then announces: "And so all Israel will be saved" (11:26). The words "and so" indicate a concluding statement. Israel was complete; some fell off because of unbelief; others came in to fill their place; so now Israel is complete again. Paul can happily declare that all Israel will be saved.
"All Israel" therefore does not refer to "physical Israel," a concept we saw as problematic. "All Israel" refers to all believers of all the ages, from the patriarchs of the Old Testament to believers today; to put it another way, from the roots of the olive tree in the Old Testament, to its last and tiniest branch, believing Christians today. All Israel refers to the totality of the people of God throughout the ages.
Summary and implications
This study has endeavored to establish two main points. First, the term Israel in the Bible is not a referent to physical descent but a term denoting those committed in faith to God; a spiritual, not racial, community.
Second, according to Romans 9, this spiritual Israel has never been rejected. True, the death, resurrection, and rejection of Jesus by members of Israel marked a major turning point in God's dealings with humanity (cf. Dan. 9:24–27; Matt. 21:43). But it was individuals who were rejected. Israel as a referent of God's people continues to exist. It is made up of anyone and everyone who accepts Jesus as Lord and Savior irrespective of ancestry or race. Believers in Jesus are the true children of Abraham (Gal. 3:7).
What are the implications? Several, but we will mention three:
- With regard to modern Jews, there is absolutely no room for anti-Semitism. Their Scripture is part of our Scripture, their biblical heritage our heritage. They are not a rejected nation. They are broken branches, brothers and sisters who have failed to believe, and our call is to love them to faith, as we should all fellow humans.
- But neither are they God's chosen people. God chose and nurtures the tree. The branches that were broken off are no longer part of the tree. They can be reintegrated, but only through faith (Rom. 11:23). God's purposes will be fulfilled in the tree—believers in Jesus—not the broken branches.
- Christians would do well to re-explore the roots of biblical Israel, including the biblical Sabbath, and see it as fully, not indirectly, our heritage. The sharp break between biblical Israel and the church, which is part of many theologies today, is arbitrary and unbiblical. It has robbed the Christian church of much that is valuable. The church is the natural continuation of Israel just like the branches are the natural continuation of the tree. A fuller rediscovery of our roots can enhance our spirituality and worship.
1 Unless otherwise stated, all Scripture passages are from the New King James Version.
2 Henry George Liddell and Robert Scott, An Intermediate Greek-English Lexicon, s.v. "prosēlutoi" (Oxford, UK: Oxford University Press, 1945).
3 Commentators usually understand this text as authorization to minister to lapsed Jews, for they consider it unlikely that Artaxerxes would have authorized open evangelization of pagans. However, the fact that in Ezra 7:23 Artaxerxes recognized God as the "God of heaven" could indicate that the directive had broader application, including a permission to convert non-Jews.
4 Josephus, Antiquities 13.9.1. See also Bernard M. Zlotowitz, "Sincere Conversion and Ulterior Motives," in Conversion to Judaism in Jewish Law: Essays and Responses, ed. Walter Jacob and Moshe Zemer (Pittsburgh, PA: Rodef Shalom, 1994), 67.
5 E.g., Josephus, Antiquities 14.1.3.
6 Jews today understand this very clearly. Any person who converts to Judaism is considered a full Jew and receives full rights to immigrate to Israel; by contrast, Jews of noble heritage who, say, accept Jesus as their Savior, are no longer considered Jews and lose the right to immigrate to Israel.
7 See Everett Ferguson, Backgrounds of Early Christianity (Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans, 2003), 514.
8 Liddell and Scott, An Intermediate Greek-English Lexicon, s.v. "perisa."
9 Ferguson, Backgrounds of Early Christianity, 521–531.
10 The Greek apo merous that relates to the hardening can be interpreted either (a) that the hardening was "partial" or (b) that the hardening came to "a part" of Israel as opposed to the whole. The second option is preferred for three reasons. First, the noun meros most naturally refers to one part of a bigger whole. Second, the word for "hardening" is pōrōsis, a strong word that in the two other instances it is used implies rejection of God (Mark 3:5; Eph. 4:18). So it is difficult to speak of a partial hardening (contrast pōrōsis with the softer sklēros and derivatives, often used for hardening that, nonetheless, does not imply rejection). Third, context requires that the hardening came to a part of Israel (the branches that did not believe) as opposed to all branches suffering a partial hardening.
11 Liddell and Scott, An Intermediate Greek-English Lexicon, sv plērōma. Cf. LXX Psalms 23:1; 49:12; 88:12; Jer. 8:16; Rom. 13:10; 1 Cor. 10:26.


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Now brought to you by Scout Magazine.
Marijuana was legalized in Canada just a few years back and we are certain there are not many who are upset with this. Psilocybin, the chemical altering compound found in "magic mushrooms" is still illegal. It has been since 1974. This needs to change. Enter in Spencer Hawkswell. He's the CEO of a new Victoria based non-profit called TheraPsil. He helped co-found this venture with his friend and mentor Dr. Bruce Tobin who is a psychotherapist. Together they've helped a small group of Canadians in times of need, specifically end of life treatment. In doing so they've given those individuals at this time a new medicine with which to work with, one that isn't addictive and completely natural. The results have been life changing. But they want to help all Canadians and until Health Canada changes the law regarding the manufacture, production and use of psilocybin, their hands are limited.
Enter a few weeks ago where they submitted a 165 page proposal detailing how psilocybin should be legalized. In this interview Spencer goes through this document, how he sees this process unfolding and what psilocybin access and treatment will look like.
You can hear it in his voice, he wants to help and we appreciate his candour and empathy for this cause. We're confident you'll enjoy this one. I say we, because Mickey is back!
TheraPsil is a non-profit coalition dedicated to helping Canadians in medical need access legal, psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy to treat end-of-life distress.
TheraPsil was formed in 2019 and is made up of healthcare professionals, patients, community members, and advocates. To meet our team, click here.
After over 100 days of advocating, TheraPsil facilitated precedent-setting and tangible progress in the fight for compassionate access to psilocybin therapy when it helped 4 Canadians suffering from end-of-life distress, due to a terminal illness, access approved 'section 56 exemptions' from the Minister of Health, on August 4th 2020. This was the first time section 56 exemptions for psilocybin had been approved for patients since psilocybin was made a controlled substance in 1974, in Canada.
As of March 2021, TheraPsil has now supported 27 patients in 5 different provinces access legal, psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy.
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We're proud to have Scout as our presenting sponsor as we believe what they "Scout out" is an excellent compliment to what we're offering here with Track and Food. Do check them out. scoutmagazine.ca


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Can't 'Let it Go': Idina Menzel's Oscar Performance
It's no surprise that "Let it Go" from Disney's animated film Frozen won the award for "Best Original Song" at the Oscars last night. Congrats to the writers, Robert Lopez and his wife Kristen Anderson-Lopez, for being the first Filipino Americans to win an Oscar. And also for being the cutest song-writing couple ever *thumbs up.*
What did surprise me, however, was the media's reaction to actress Idina Menzel's performance of the song. Last night and this morning, the internet was blowing up about how Menzel "blew the audience away with her spectacular voice." One article reads, "Wow. That's basically all one can say when Idina takes the stage."
I'm going to be honest…I, too, was thinking Wow… but NOT in a good way. Maybe my expectations for her performance were too high. Or maybe my standards for the song were raised by this: Let it Go – Frozen – Alex Boyé (Africanized Tribal Cover) Ft. One Voice Children's Choir. OR, maybe Idina Menzel really did sound a little off. And by a little off, I mean her tone sounded nasally, her high notes were strained, and her overall stage presence appeared tense and uncomfortable. Watch here: Idina Menzel sings "Let it Go" at the Oscars. Am I the ONLY one who feels this way!?
Maybe I'm being too harsh on her. Oh well, I guess we can all just talk about how badly John Travolta messed up her name, when announcing her performance: Adela Dazeem? Well done, Johnny, well done.
What did YOU think of her performance? Comment below!
Brought to you by Mills Properties


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"The Dreamer"
Title: The Dreamer
Date: 1994
Edition: 650
Size: 18.5"x15" (unframed print)
Price: $150.00
Artist's Statement:
The first thing I noticed about this charming scene was the colorful and unique cradleboard. Each tribe has its own design, and this is an Apache cradleboard, naturally, since the baby, who is only a few months old, is also Apache. Anyone familiar with my work knows that I sometimes have problems with my young subjects' staying still. I'm happy to say that, with this grandchild of the tribe's medicine man, there was no such problem. Adding to the atmosphere is the colorful Pendleton blanket, an item commonly found at the trading post on the reservation. Every family has two or three of them. The flowers around the cradleboard are brittlebush. All in all, I think they balanced the image nicely.


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...there is a crucial difference between then and now: the words that our political leaders use to talk about our problems have changed. Where politicians once drew on a morally resonant language of people, family and shared social concern, they now deploy the cold technical idiom of budgetary accounting...This is more than a superficial difference in rhetoric. It threatens to deprive us of the intellectual resources needed to address today's problems.
From the 1930s to the 1960s...American public discourse was filled with references to the social circumstances of average citizens, our common institutions and our common history. Over the last five decades, that discourse has changed in ways that emphasize individual choice, agency and preferences. The language of sociology and common culture has been replaced by the language of economics and individualism.
In 1934, the government was us. We had shared circumstances, shared risks and shared obligations. Today the government is the other — not an institution for the achievement of our common goals, but an alien presence that stands between us and the realization of individual ambitions. Programs of social insurance have become "entitlements," a word apparently meant to signify not a collectively provided and cherished basis for family-income security, but a sinister threat to our national well-being.
Over the last 50 years we seem to have lost the words — and with them the ideas — to frame our situation appropriately.
This blog reports new ideas and work on mind, brain, behavior, psychology, and politics - as well as random curious stuff. (Try the Dynamic Views at top of right column.)
Monday, October 17, 2011
Dissolution of the social contract
4 comments:
I would clarify that we haven't lost the words so much as they have been stolen from us via media ethos to present "two sides" as being equivalent in salience even when one lacks facts and evidence of support. The framing of extreme positions as that is rarely accomplished, and so those given prominence become ipso facto the mainstream framing.ReplyDelete
What comes to mind is that infamous GWBush White House slip that if they repeat something enough times, it becomes the truth. In this case, it becomes the social and political reference point.
- Anonymous9:04 AM
How true !!ReplyDelete
People, citizens, are nowadays just statistical elements...
And the political class have become a new species, predators...


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Archive for May 2010
Testimony: Relief from Stress (in South Africa)
In high school I realized that there was a calling on my life me to bring the gospel to people. I loved to talk about the Bible. Somehow God has opened the Word to me more than to most of my age group. As a family our community involvement revolved around the church and its…Read More
Identified or Simply Interested?
"I have been crucified with Christ …" (Galatians 2:20). The inescapable spiritual need each of us has is the need to sign the death certificate of our sin nature [the self-life]. I must take my emotional opinions and intellectual beliefs and be willing to turn them into a moral verdict against the nature of sin;…Read More
God is Able (Part 2)
Yes, clasp this [divine] side, the not-self side, of the Scripture promises. Fear not lest the legitimate action of self, of you, should be unduly eliminated. With the heart that asks the questions we have supposed, that is the last risk, and the least. What you need is to look away to this eternal Person…Read More
God is Able (Part 1)
"Why are you cast down, O my soul? And why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God, for I shall yet praise Him For the help of His countenance." Psalm 42:5 [As you go deeper with God, you may be thinking…] But, am I not where I was before, only more aware of it?…Read More