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The Complete Music Director
by JoAnn Falletta
Today, we expect the world of our artistic leaders -- and we should.
One of the most vivid memories of my days as a young conducting student at Juilliard is of an article lauding the mystique of a certain music director of one of the finest orchestras in our country. The maestro, the newspaper maintained, was so important and so private that he was never seen anywhere in the city except on the podium of his orchestra. Even when he left the concert hall after a performance he retreated to a favorite restaurant where a secluded table in the back room was provided for him, away from his throng of fans. The orchestra itself seemed rather proud of this -- it meant, of course, that one had to purchase a concert ticket to enjoy even a glimpse of their charismatic conductor.
For my four conducting colleagues and myself, the description of the life of the maestro could not have been more dissimilar than that of our own harried existences -- dealing with the scarcely concealed contempt of the Juilliard Conductors Orchestra, the scathing (and uncomfortably accurate) criticism of our teacher, the humiliation of cajoling, pleading and bribing our classmates into forming reluctant and disorganized groups over which we could wield our incipient batons. For myself, fifteen years and four music directorships later, the maestro's enviable situation seems even further from reality than it did then.
I am convinced that no one leaves the conservatory with more than the sketchiest idea of the meaning of the title music director. To be honest, one scarcely knows how to conduct, in the real sense - the deepest musical understanding, analytical aptitude and psychological skills develop slowly as one studies, works and matures. But even the most profound grasp of a score, the most elegant technique hardly prepare the young maestro for the duties that descend upon his or her shoulders the moment the music director search committee reaches its decision. We acknowledge that the choice of a music director is probably one of the most significant decisions any orchestra will make; the thought that the chosen one may have little to no idea about the actual job is cause for some alarm.
We stand upon the gateway of a 21st century even the wildest visionary could not have imagined at the beginning of the 20th. It seems an appropriate time to acknowledge the extraordinary changes that the last hundred years have wrought in the arts.
It certainly has been a period of extraordinary artistic innovation, mirroring rapid developments in science and technology. Composers have risen to the challenge of expressing our changing world, creating new and complex works that reflect life in this century. The last hundred years have been a time of unprecedented social and political upheaval. Once again, composers have responded with works that mirror the dreams and the terrors of contemporary life. In this time of rapid and unpredictable change in the arts, it is no surprise that the music director entering the 21st century bears markedly different responsibilities than did his 19th century predecessor.
Across the country, symphony orchestras are facing what appear to be the most difficult times in their collective history. Often the very survival of the institution will hinge on the skill of the maestro - not only his musical talent, but his leadership ability, interpersonal communication and management acumen in planning, scheduling, interacting with staff and musicians, dealing with conflict and fostering feelings of solidarity, community and common purpose. Added requirements are a broad artistic vision, a clear understanding of the musical objectives of the organization, and the courage to explore new possibilities and options coupled with the wisdom to preserve the best of tradition. Some of you may recall candidate Eugene McCarthy's response to a 1968 query as to whether he was qualified to be President of the United States -- he replied that when you got right down to it, probably nobody was qualified. The same might be said for the music director at the beginning of the 21st Century. Probably no one has the complete set of skills the job demands. But a solid understanding of the responsibilities of the position can and should help music directors develop their personal resources within the framework of each one's unique talents, personality and charisma.
The single most important truth for the music director to remember is that any orchestra's personality grows out of its musicians. They have the longest tenure of any facet of the organization. The value of the music grows out of the lives of those musicians- their set of cultural and social values, their communities, their interests, their ideals, their hopes for the orchestra. The conductor should embrace this musical mosaic of extraordinary people with an overarching artistic philosophy. That philosophy can be as simple -- and as profound -- as creating a situation that allows room for excellence to thrive. More specifically, that philosophy should engender an environment in which musicians are motivated and inspired to achieve individual artistic satisfaction through their commitment to their orchestra and to their community.
The responsibility for a vibrant philosophy rests largely upon the music director and his skills. Of these, the most important -- musical talent -- remains the most mysterious and least quantifiable commodity in terms of a conductor. Certainly, even an unsophisticated audience can surmise that the violin soloist has poor intonation or that the pianist is having difficulty with the technical demands of a concerto. Can most audience members assess the skill of the maestro? Does a flamboyant podium presence equate to a prodigious talent? Does conducting from memory insure deep musical understanding? Do exaggerated tempos and dynamic changes imply a unique and revelatory interpretation? The true assessment of a maestro's musical skill often rests with the musicians over which he presides. Can they play comfortably and expressively, feeling neither confined nor abandoned? Perhaps the ideal performance situation is one in which each musician can feel free to play as if on his own, yet enjoy all the while the comfort of the framework of an interpretation that makes complete musical sense. In such an ideal performance the audience senses (rather than defines) a "rightness" about the experience - a subconscious structure, a pacing, a unified artistic conception, an inevitability that create a depth and excitement that go beyond the surface level. Certainly that "ideal situation" is far from commonplace. The musical understanding - indeed, the life understanding that it presupposes are the goals to which conductors should aspire all their musical lives. The deeper and broader an individual's background, the richer and more profoundly evident are both the specific, unique qualities of his work and its greater significance. Leonard Bernstein once stated that "any composer's writing is the sum of himself, all his roots and all his influences". The same is true of the work of any conductor. The value of his music grows out of the very life of the artist himself, his own particular set of cultural and social values, the community in which he lives, the nation to which he belongs. The conductor must make his art an expression of his inner and outer world, and dedicate his life to the enrichment of both. Any conductor who does not fully devote himself to the constant development of his musical understanding is failing to recognize the single most significant requirement of his profession.
Secondary to the depth of one's musical aptitude is the communication of that knowledge - to orchestra, to audience and to community. The technical and personal communication skills required on the podium are enormous - and completely individual. The often mentioned but little understood concepts of "charisma" and "chemistry" enter in the question -- and it is acknowledged that not every conductor works equally well with every ensemble. Hopefully, the music director establishes a productive working relationship with his own orchestra -- a relationship based on mutual respect, trust and a desire to foster what is best in the organization. He or she is called upon to make extraordinarily difficult personnel decisions, to inspire one hundred diverse personalities, and to conduct Bach and Varese with equal aplomb! The only hope for success, I am certain, is for the conductor to be completely himself on the podium - -whether humorous, dignified, intense, energetic, tranquil or otherwise. Integrity seems to be the one characteristic that no orchestral ensemble is willing to overlook. "Style" -- as long as it is based on sincerity -- can and should be as different as each maestro is to the next.
One of the most telling reflections of the music director's vision and personality lies in the choice of repertoire for the orchestra. Other factors may influence the final shape of the symphony's programming, but the music director ultimately bears the overall responsibility for the complexion and texture of the season's offerings. Are the choices simply the pieces the conductor would like to perform? Or do they truly reflect a certain character, mission or vision? As much as they might be somewhat constrained by financial limitations, choices should, at the core, be artistically motivated. What repertoire will help the orchestra develop, grow, challenge itself, stretch stylistically? It need not be the repertoire with the largest demands: a good performance a Mozart symphony, for example, is much harder to achieve than one of Orff's Carmina Burana. A balance should be struck in presenting repertoire from all periods, and a sense of overall logic and motivation behind the repertoire choices is critical. Selections should support and complement the expressed objectives of the orchestra and, in the long run, contribute to the vitality and vibrancy of the organization. In addition, music directors must seek the reintegration of the living composer into society at large. The orchestra exists not only as a beautiful reflection of a musical past but as an unerring mirror of current society. A living, breathing, dynamic institution, the symphony is constantly developing exciting repertoire. If we succumb to the suggestion that we should only perform music written between 1750 and 1900, are we not invalidating ourselves as an institution -- and as a culture? Certainly music directors should not embrace new music indiscriminately. The half-hearted performance of a new work can drastically weaken the case for an ongoing repertoire. But would it not be possible for each music director to find a handful of living composers whose work speaks to him or her personally -- and to champion these voices? Aaron Copland told us that our country will only achieve a true artistic maturity when the composer feels himself affirmed and buoyed by his community, when living music means something, in the deepest sense, to everyone. The music director can help the orchestra and its community celebrate the privilege of experiencing and appreciating music of all times -- through thoughtful selection, inclusive presentation and most of all, committed and vivid performance.
Often the conductor becomes the fulcrum around which swirls the conflict of balancing artistic goals with monetary considerations. I am convinced that in times of financial challenge the artistic integrity and vision must be even more clearly defined and upheld. The goal of any orchestra is to serve the needs of its community. To accomplish this, the music director must strive to forge a strong community within the orchestra family, fostering the concept of artistic integrity as a shared vision. No music director, whether he spends eight or 48 weeks with his orchestra, can abdicate his responsibility to uphold the highest musical standards. We cannot always create an ideal situation. But through creativity and plain hard work we can create an environment in which artistic achievement can flourish. Does artistic achievement necessarily equate to expense? I don't believe so. But it does equate to hours and weeks and months of planning, of prioritizing, of refining and polishing a vision for the organization. Artistic integrity is not about playing the largest pieces in the repertoire. It is not about featuring the most expensive soloists; it is not about having the greatest number of string players. Artistic integrity as music director is helping to release the vibrant energy within each player, enabling each musician to achieve his or her musical best. Artistic integrity is recognizing that orchestras do not develop through the splashy applause of concert nights. Rather, orchestras develop slowly -- through every valuable minute of rehearsal, through every score we choose, through every audition we hold. The music director must build artistic integrity into all the little bits and pieces of the orchestra's activity. That attitude, that search for excellence does not necessarily cost more financially but it does cost in time, work, commitment, dedication, cooperation and communication. The return, both individually and collectively, is beyond any price.
It is the rare conductor who has significant marketing or development experience when he accepts his position with the orchestra. Even rarer is the music director who will not spend, over the course of his tenure, countless hours with his experts in those fields, analyzing, fund-raising, reaching out to his community constituency. The details of this commitment are myriad -- from the creation of special programs or festivals, pre- or post- concert discussions, speaking at countless civic groups, design and implementation of educational activities, media visibility and cooperation, to active involvement in grant writing and corporate and individual fundraising. It is only through a vital artistic partnership with the community that the maestro can hope to make the symphony a vibrant thread in the tapestry of life there.
The conductor must have the courage to rethink widely held assumptions. We may not know what the concert hall of 2050 will be like. But all of us have faith in the serious investigation of our art, of musical sound. As our organizations undergo striking metamorphoses, they will look to the music director for leadership -- for artistic ability, honesty, vision, creativity, communication, energy, sense of mission, collaboration, and total involvement. In extraordinary times, it is extraordinary action which makes the difference. The 21st century is not a time for maintenance of the status quo, but rather the time to make a decisive and focused commitment to the values which are at the core of our art. To do any less would be to leave our orchestral world defenseless to those who perceive the arts as trivial and non-essential. The music director of the 21st Century must be a teacher in the purest sense -- a teacher who has internalized his art so completely that its manifestation becomes the persona of the artist. As a leader and a communicator, the conductor must present an artistic endeavor with an energy that is as inspiring and compelling as the art form itself.
As an artist in a pluralistic, competitive society, the music director cannot afford to remain aloof from his audience. He or she must be involved, not only in raising dollars, but in raising consciousness. As performing artists we share a fundamental belief that there is a significant community with an appetite for our art, a discriminating, renewable public. The alarming reality is that this audience of appreciative listeners is at risk. If we are not careful, we will find that we have been diligently trained to answer a question that is no longer being asked.
In times of financial and social challenge for our orchestras, is there truly a valid place for the enigmatic maestro of my Juilliard memory? Is it not imperative for the music director to communicate through every possible means the belief that music is an integral part of our lives and of our community? We stand on the threshold of a new millennium, a temporal landmark holding tremendous metaphorical and spiritual significance. As we move forward, the most exciting development for the 21st century seems not to be technological advancement, but rather an expanding concept of what it means to be a human being. The music director and his orchestra can eloquently and passionately articulate the conviction that music is at the core of the continual reinvigoration of the human spirit.
JoAnn Falletta is music director of the Buffalo Philharmonic and the Virginia Symhony. This article is adapted from her June 12 address to conductors attending the American Symphony Orchestra League's 57th National Conference. Portions of the speech were originally printed in Reflections on American Music: The Twentieth Century and the New Millennium.


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Moffett, Sandra and Nicell, Mairin
An Evaluation of the Impact of Widening Access Skills in Primary Schools (WASPS) initiative.
Perspectives on Pedagogy and Practice, 3
pp. 123-135.
[Journal article]
Moffett, Sandra and Nicell, Mairin
WASPS – promoting computing to divided communities.
In: FACE Annual Conference 2012 - Widening Access to Higher Education in 'Divided Communities', University of Ulster, Magee Campus, Londonderry.
Forum for Access and Continuing Education.
6 pp.
[Conference contribution]

subset: commoncrawl


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FROM a bustling al fresco feast held in glorious sunshine to a frosty winter wasteland, you could be forgiven for presuming these images of Edinburgh were taken in summer and winter.
• Met Office issue yellow warnings of snow and ice for eastern Scotland
• Snow and icy conditions here until Friday say forecasters - and the cold spell could last into April
But in a stark illustration of how a Scottish spring can never be second guessed, these photographs of the Meadows were taken on the same day this year and last.
Whereas the country basked in an unseasonal heatwave on 27 March in 2012, with students enjoying impromptu barbecues as the mercury nudged 23C, the capital greenspace was nearly deserted yesterday, but for a family clad in wellington boots traipsing across the snow-covered grass.
The freezing weather was not confined to Edinburgh, however, as further snowfall caused widespread travel disruption across the country. Utility firm engineers neared the end of an arduous week-long repair operation to reconnect the remaining households across rural communities left without power following last Friday's severe storms.
As of yesterday evening, around 100 homes in Kintyre and 350 properties on Arran remained cut off, but Scottish and Southern Energy (SSE) again deployed 400 workers in an effort to provide them with heating and electricity.
The company said that while "conditions remain challenging," it was on track to restore power to its remaining customers by the end of tonight, providing it doesn't encounter "further significant network damage" as part of its ongoing surveys of felled lines and poles. SSE said its deployment of emergency generators were equivalent to "two new power stations".
Transport minister Keith Brown said there had been a "huge effort" by all the agencies involved in the response to the severe weather.
He said: "Of course, it remains difficult for those that are not on supply, but what we have seen is the numbers being reduced by about 90 per cent from about 18,000 who were off supply, to below 2,000.
"And the assurance given by the electricity company – they will have everybody back on supply, that will be temporary supply, by tomorrow night.
"Efforts are continuing. There has been a huge effort put in by all the agencies and that will continue until we get everyone back on supply."
Mr Brown said SSE hoped to have the "major infrastructure work that is required in Kintyre completed by the weekend".
That work, he explained, was needed to reinstate to two electricity towers which had gone down.
Mr Brown said it was "unprecedented" for two of these to go down at the same time, adding: "These are things they haven't seen before, certainly not for a generation, but that work is ongoing and they expect to have people back on supply by the weekend, that's permanent supply, on the grid."
Yesterday, sleet and snow blew in from the east, reaching parts of the west and south-west, with yellow "be aware" snow warnings issued by the Met
Office for central and eastern parts of the country.
An accident partly blocked the A72 between Innerleithen and Walkerburn and there were reports of other minor accidents on the A7 and A68.
Motorists also endured delays on the M8 at Livingston and Glasgow, and on the M9 at Falkirk.
Today will see another cold and frosty start, before conditions become mainly dry
and bright with sunny spells developing. Into the weekend, there will be little change,
with the chance of a few snow flurries in the east, while the west enjoys the best of the sunshine.
Meanwhile, the Scottish Government said "strenuous efforts" are continuing to help farmers hit by severe snow to trace and care for their livestock.
Rural affairs secretary Richard Lochhead said: ""We have worked quickly to source appropriate help and specialist equipment and match it with the need on the ground. This work will continue as we monitor the ongoing effects of the weather, particularly as the thaw begins."


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Order The Sienna Style Invitation
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All of our invitations are printed bespoke by us in our Buckinghamshire studio. This means we not only do we have full control over the quality of the materials and the print finish we can also tailor the design just for you.
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I've covered Julia Child's Salmon with Aromatic Vegetables before, this time we used Steelhead Trout from Avedano's Holly Park Market instead of Salmon. Hard to find Wild caught Salmon these days, Steelhead is our second choice, along with Arctic Char. Another good use for those hard to finish bottles of Dry Vermouth, by the way.
Fish with Aromatic Vegetables
Method: Pre-heat an oven to 300 F. Finely chop a combination of equal parts onion, celery, and carrot. Heat a Saute pan, add butter and vegetables. Saute until the vegetables are tender. Add dried or fresh tarragon and thyme. Deglaze pan with a generous amount of Dry Vermouth. Butter a roasting pan approximately the size of your fish fillet. Place the fillet skin side down in the pan, salt, pepper, and some cubes of butter. Pour vegetables on top of fish. Add more dry vermouth to come up half way up the side of the fillet. Cover with buttered parchment paper or lid and place in oven. Bake until fillets are just cooked through. Remove fillets from liquid to warm plate. Pour liquid into sauce pan and reduce until syrupy. Optionally, mount the sauce with butter. Pour over filets and serve.
To be honest, I think this would be an awesome sous vide preparation.
More interesting, though were the side dishes, generally riffs on flavors I associate with Southern Italy.
Pan roasted Cauliflower braised in cx stock with red chile, garlic, herbs, anchovy paste, olives, and sherry vinegar.
METHOD: Cut up a head of Cauliflower into "florets", heat a saute pan. Add some olive oil and then Cauliflower. Let "pan roast" over high heat until you get some nice color. Add minced garlic, crushed red chile, fine chopped herbs, an anchovy filet, and some chopped Green Olives. Give a shake or two. Pour in some chicken (or vegetable) stock and cook until the Cauliflower is tender. Finish with a splash of sherry vinegar to brighten the flavors.
I've been rediscovering Cauliflower lately and enjoying the flavors. This was one of the more interesting preparations I've done recently.
Israeli Cous Co us with pine nuts, raisins, lemon zest, herbs, and cinnamon broth.
METHOD: Heat a pint or so of chicken stock until warm with a cinnamon stick. Heat a deep saute pan. Add some olive oil and a cup of israeli cous cous. Add some pine nuts, raisins, and sliced green onions. Saute briefly, then add chicken stock by the cupful. continue to add stock as it is absorbed until the cous cous is tender and cooked through. Finish with herbs and the Zest of one lemon.
I really like Israeli Cous Cous, you often cook it rather like risotto. A bit more fun than the pilaf-like preparations for regular Cous Cous.
Both of these side dishes could be described as "profoundly unfashionable" in flavor and style, nearly Medieval with their emphasis on strong flavors, herbs, and spiced. I really liked them in combination with the milder fish preparation.
Serve with a nice, light red wine, like this Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir from Wild Hog Vineyards.


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While 2011 was the year of the incumbent, 2012 and 2013 may see sweeping change in three of Canada's largest provinces.
As expected, popular incumbents coasted to re-election in P.E.I., Saskatchewan and Newfoundland and Labrador last year. Manitobans re-elected the NDP government that first took power in 1999, and in Ontario the Liberals won an election they were on track to lose.
Stephen Harper's Conservatives, holding a minority government for five years, were finally given a majority mandate in May 2011.
The incumbents were on a roll, but it appears that over the next 14 months three incumbent governments could be defeated.
The first to fall could be in Alberta, where the Progressive Conservatives have ruled the roost for 41 years. Though the party has a new leader in Alison Redford, Albertans are turning to the right-wing Wildrose Party, and its leader Danielle Smith, in droves. Polls taken since the election was called last Monday give Wildrose a double-digit lead, an incredible change of fortune for the Tories who, as recently as February, had a double-digit lead of their own.
Albertans elect dynasties. The Progressive Conservatives have become so used to winning that it would appear they have forgotten how to campaign. Though there is potential that Wildrose has peaked too soon, the first week of the campaign has been so disastrous for the Tories that it seems likely that Wildrose will be able to keep the momentum going through the second week of the campaign at the very least. If Alison Redford cannot turn things around in time, the dynastic change will take place on April 23.
The next incumbent government to meet its end could be that of Jean Charest and his Quebec Liberals. The party has governed the province since 2003 and has been re-elected twice since then, despite Charest being one of the most unpopular premiers in the country. A few months ago, it appeared that François Legault's Coalition Avenir Québec would sweep the Liberals from power, but Legault's star has since dulled. Instead, the Parti Québécois has taken the lead in the polls and looks poised to become the government after the next election, likely to be held next spring at the latest.
But if the PQ's Pauline Marois is unable to deliver in the next campaign, that does not mean that Jean Charest can expect re-election. His Liberals have remained stagnant in the polls despite the major shift in support between the CAQ and the PQ. Support has almost entirely switched between those two parties, and if Quebecers decide they are not ready to put the PQ back in power, they may turn to François Legault once again.
The third government teetering on the edge is in British Columbia, where Christy Clark's Liberals have trailed the New Democrats in the polls for almost a year. The source of her troubles is primarily the upstart B.C. Conservative Party, which recently gained a floor-crossing Liberal MLA. As right-of-centre British Columbians tire of the Liberals, the consequence of their desire for change could be an NDP government.
Last year demonstrated the advantage enjoyed by incumbents. This advantage will undoubtedly make Alison Redford, Jean Charest and Christy Clark difficult to beat. But last year's federal election results in Quebec also demonstrated that the desire for change is a powerful force -- one these three premiers may not be able to resist.
Éric Grenier taps The Pulse of federal and regional politics for Huffington Post Canada readers on most Tuesdays and Fridays. Grenier is the author of ThreeHundredEight.com, covering Canadian politics, polls, and electoral projections.
Also on HuffPost


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Relayed from email@example.com on the funcube yahoo group
It's USB2, an E 5400 based machine with Win7Ultimate.
To recap. The exact process was.....
The machine was a fresh OS install, with all the updates done.
After that, the FC dashboard v848 was downloaded and installed, and the FCD P+ plugged in, and left for a while to find/install the drivers.
Setup for the FCD in the dashboard.
The FCD was avail in tne capture options, so selected that.
Get message ' Unable to capture from FunCUBE Dongle...'
The FCD works fine with the FCHID2 on the win 7 machine.
It appears as the selected recording device on the Win 7 machine. It is referred to as 'Line - 2 Funcube Dongle V2.0'. Shown as enabled and generally happy with the world.
The FCD is fine on the old XP laptop that I have been using up till now.


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Chamomile tea has been a widely used herbal drink since the Greek, Roman and Egyptian periods. Today, this is mostly popular for Americans when someone has an upset stomach or if they are having trouble with sleeping. There are two type of chamomile used to make a good tea that provides benefits as mentioned in the Web MD: Roman, or English chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile) and German chamomile (Matricaria retutica).
Health benefits of chamomile tea extract , infusions, tinctures, creams and ointments are just same as those found in fresh and dried flower heads. The Roman chamomile is used for an upset stomach and insomnia, while the German chamomile is used to fight bacterial infections and reduce skin swelling.
The Health Benefits and Side Effects of Chamomile Tea
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate the intake of dietary supplements among the population, unlike the way that they regulate the use of medicine. But it advise that you consult a physician prior to taking chamomile tea because it may cause allergic reactions if you have an allergy to pollens. They also answered the question "Is chamomile tea safe to drink during pregnancy?" with a big no same as for breastfeeding mothers as it affects the menstrual cycle and hormone level of women, as reported by the Live Strong.
Aside from the mentioned benefits, it is also an immunity booster as concluded in the study published in the American Chemical Society: Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry in 2005. Participants who took 5 cups of chamomile tea for two continuous weeks have shown increased level of hippurate, which is known to boost the immunity system that fights bacteria and viruses.
How to Make Healthy Chamomile Tea
Learn how to make healthy chamomile tea recipe with this simple steps. Since chamomile tea has a number of benefits in and outside the body, the recipe also varies. But mostly, it involves boiling, drinking or applying on the damaged area. So the recipe from Food.com involves 2 tablespoon of fresh chamomile flowers, 2 cups of boiling water, 2 slices of apple for added flavor and honey.
First, rinse the flowers using cool water to remove dirt. Now, heat the pot with water until boiling then add the apple slices into the pot and mash it with spoon as it gets softer while heating. Add in the fresh and washed chamomile flowers along with another 2 cups of boiling water. Allow to steep with pot cover on for about 3 to 5 minutes. This recipe can make 2-3 cups depending on volume. Honey will be added if you want to make it sweeter.
Now, your chamomile tea is ready to drink. This can also be given to kids as long as you let it cool first.
Video on Chamomile Tea Extract Health Benefits


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Puerto Escondido
Luxurious oceanfront home–Newly constructed, very private, architectural–in exclusive gated Costa Cumaná neighborhood, located 15 minutes south east of Puerto Escondido. Reflecting pools surround this designer home with enormous master suite and 2 lovely upstairs guest bedrooms. Media and entertainment room with satellite big-screen LCD TV and very comfortable built-in couches which can sleep 2. Wireless internet throughout the house. Master has elevated area overlooking waterfall and ocean-perfect for home gym. On-site casita for live-in help or additional guest room. State of the art kitchen has brand-new stainless steel high-end appliances. Exquisite finishings throughout. 3,552 Square feet Lot size 17,760.


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Events for March 8, 2019
Events Search and Views Navigation
All Day
Summer Sunset Series: Video Auditions
Calling all Brazos Valley bands! We are searching for the best bands in the Brazos Valley to feature this summer at the Palace Theater! Auditions for the Summer Sunset Series Showcase, presented by KBTX, are open to all bands - big and small. Winners will have the opportunity to perform at the Summer Sunset Series […]Find out more »


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I'M PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE I've teamed up with Moleskine to produce very cool, custom Moleskine Pocket Sketchbooks to share with fans of Moleskine and The Sketchnote Handbook, in Austin at SXSW 2013!
We're organizing 2 free meet-ups at SXSW Interactive in Austin on Saturday, March 9th, to meet fans and give away a bunch of custom sketchbooks.
Here's a mockup of the custom Sketchnote Handbook branded Moleskine Sketchbooks we're giving away:
We're challenging recipients of these custom sketchbooks to sketchnote panels and other experiences — then share their work with the #mSketchnote hashtag on Flickr, Twitter, Instagram and other social media channels.
Here are the details of the meet-ups:
Jo's Coffee Shop - Downtown: 10:30 AM -12 NOON
The first event is a meet-up at Jo's Coffee Shop Downtown (242 W. 2nd Street - between Colorado and Lavaca Streets), giving away 80 of the Sketchnote Handbook inspired Pocket Moleskine Sketchbooks and free coffee to those who want to take the sketchnote challenge.
Mulberry - 7:00 - 9:00 PM
The second meet-up will be at Mulberry on 360 Nueces Street at W. 3rd Street from 7-9. We can share a drink and your sketchnotes together, and have fun meeting others in the Moleskine and sketchnote communities. I'll be excited to see some of the sketchnote challenge work in-person at this event, and we'll have more custom books to give away to keep you sketchnoting SXSW all week.
Go RSVP for these events on Eventbrite, and I'll look forward to meeting you at an event! Come join us!
Follow Moleskine and me on these social media channels for more info and to see this work as it comes in on March 9th and beyond:
Twitter: @moleskine and @rohdesign
Instagram: @moleskine_world and @rohdesign


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The distinctive silhouette of the New Discovery Sport
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The distinctive silhouette of the New Discovery Sport
Jaguar Land Rover Limited: Registered office: Abbey Road, Whitley, Coventry CV3 4LF. Registered in England No: 1672070
The figures provided are as a result of official manufacturer's tests in accordance with EU legislation. A vehicle's actual fuel consumption may differ from that achieved in such tests and these figures are for comparative purposes only.
†The figures provided are NEDCeq calculated from official manufacturer's WLTP tests in accordance with EU legislation. For comparison purposes only. Real world figures may differ. CO2 and fuel economy figures may vary according to wheel fitment and optional extras fitted. NEDCeq are figures calculated using a Government formula from WLTP figures equivalent to what they would have been under the old NEDC test. The correct tax treatment can then be applied.
‡The figures provided are WLTP. WLTP is the new official EU test used to calculate standardised fuel consumption and CO2 figures for passenger cars. It measures fuel, energy consumption, range and emissions. This is designed to provide figures closer to real-world driving behaviour. It tests vehicles with optional equipment and with a more demanding test procedure and driving profile.
TEL (Test Energy Low) and TEH (Test Energy High) figures are shown as a range under WLTP testing measures. TEL refers to the lowest/most economical figures (with the lightest set of options). TEH refers to the highest/least economical figures (with the heaviest set of options). WLTP legislation dictates that where there is <5g CO2 variance between TEL and TEH, only the TEH is declared.


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Marine Wild Life: The Big 2-3-3!
I'm indebted to reader Amy O. for not only informing me that today is the Marine Corps' birthday, but for also providing a little Wreckage to go with! Now, her e-mail was positively loaded with important-sounding acronyms, but from what I could decipher she gets to inspect some of the DFAC's (that's dining facilities) cakey creations over in Iraq - you know, when she's not defending truth, justice, and top-secret acronym-creations.
To be fair, this isn't too bad. Someone just hit the "align right" button before piping in "Devil Dogs":
(That little smudgie next to the "s" is supposed to be an exclamation mark.) There are more spacing issues around the logo, too, and speaking of which... Uh, Amy, I think I need to look up the Marines' logo again, because that bit below the eagle looks like a...well... [shifty eyes]
Never mind. I got enough flak today for the Mario Lopez eye candy remark. ;)
SO...how 'bout that wonky "s" and "f" in "semper fi", eh? I mean, hey, what's THAT all about?


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ON MENTAL ILLNESS: Self Acceptance, Employment and Other
Persons with mental illness, because we have a legitimate disability, should not feel bad about ourselves if unemployed.
Our society puts a great deal of value on employment. This is changing to an extent, since unemployment has become rampant. To many people's surprise, unemployment has become somewhat of an acceptable occupation. Furthermore, employment at a "good" volunteer job is often seen as more valuable than paid unskilled employment.
When seeking some type of employment or volunteer work, you might ask yourself if you are doing so in order to receive appreciation or to survive. These are two very different motivations. If you are trying to survive, go ahead and work at a carwash. If you're after respect from others, or from oneself, you should seek something more meaningful. (If things were ideal, a person would work at something mostly because they are interested in what they're doing. However that's off the subject of self-esteem.)
As a good starting point, why not learn to accept yourself, or even respect yourself, regardless of what you're doing or not doing?
If the issue is self-acceptance, this can be accomplished through changing one's mind. If you just decide that you are unconditionally worthy, it will eliminate a lot of unnecessary work; or it can make a work attempt more likely to be successful. A job attempt (whether paid or unpaid) is more likely to succeed if not clouded by a deficiency in valuing oneself. If not trying to prove something to yourself or others, it is easier to just focus on the work.
Most people find it easier to like and appreciate themselves when they are getting external recognition. Yet, regardless of being recognized or not, self-acceptance boils down to the content of the thoughts about oneself.
Again, as persons with mental illness or with other disabilities we should not feel guilty or otherwise bad about ourselves if not employed. Most people with mental disabilities have some level of difficulty with work. And this includes many persons with mental illness who are extremely smart.
There are numerous causes of low self esteem other than unemployment or underemployment. Someone could be upset with their self due to an issue of body image. The mass media promotes obsession with how we look. Having or not having a relationship is a common source of self-esteem problems. Either of these issues makes it more likely that people will unnecessarily punish themselves in trying to live up to some unattainable standard.
Unconditional self-acceptance and self-appreciation can improve quality of life with no physical changes necessary. But let's not forget the five thousand pound elephant in the room--having a mental illness can be quite a blow to self esteem.
Being mentally ill can entail having a negative perception of the self. This perception is a separate but collateral issue from the physical existence of the brain condition. And yet, if mentally ill, it is still possible to like and appreciate the self, and this does not require denying the fact of having the illness.
An important step toward liking oneself is to stop identifying with the condition of your brain, and to instead identify with the person who owns and operates your brain--you. You are far more than just a diagnosis.
The belief is widespread and false that you can't like yourself if your brain hypothetically has a defect. This is one out of several motives for noncompliance with treatment, often having tragic results.
People should realize that having a mental illness should not preclude liking and respecting oneself. Society's standards that people are supposed to be "perfect," have no "defects" should be of "good stock," or should be able to survive if put on a deserted island, are false and cause a lot of unnecessary self-persecution.
Self appreciation doesn't cost anything, and is achieved partly by deciding that you are worthy. If this seems difficult, you are probably in good company. Acceptance of the self can require internal work--this is best accomplished by consulting books on the subject or a psychologist.


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Press fear Obama private swearing in
The White House Correspondents Association is strongly urging the Obama administration to allow press access to the president's official swearing-in ceremony on Jan. 20, following indications from inauguration committee officials that the event could potentially be closed to the press.
"Mindful of the historic nature of this occasion, we expect the White House will continue the long tradition of opening the President's official swearing-in to full press access, and we as an organization are looking forward to working with the administration to make that happen," Ed Henry, the Fox News correspondent and president of the White House Correspondents Association, said in a statement.
Story Continued Below
( Also on POLITICO: Obama to take corporate cash for inauguration)
In early meetings with the inaugural committee, officials privately indicated to reporters that the Jan. 20 event could be closed to reporters and cameras, with an official photograph supplied to press by White House photographer Pete Souza, sources familiar with the meeting told POLITICO.
( Also on POLITICO: Inauguration planning kicks into gear)
Fears of such a scenario were reignited this week when the Presidential Inauguration Committee sent out a press release, referring to a "private" inauguration.
Both the White House and the committee note that "private" simply means the event is not open to the public and that press arrangements have not been formalized.
( Also on POLITICO: Inaugural committee staff announced, Eva Longoria to co-chair)
"There is no truth to any rumors that decisions have been made about media access to this year's inaugural events," Rachel Racusen, a spokesperson for the committee, told POLITICO. "The 2013 Presidential Inaugural Committee announced its launch yesterday and is just beginning its planning. Any announcements about media access and credentials will be made in the coming weeks."
The White House press corps acknowledges that nothing is set in stone. But even the possibility of a closed-press inauguration has stirred up immense frustration among the White House press corps, who note that past Sunday inaugurations were open to press.


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In Speed Metal, Fastest Drummers Take a Beating
Few Humans Can Keep Up in Battle With Drum Machines
SILVER SPRING, Md.—When it comes to playing fast, few can beat Gene "The Human Drum Machine" Hoglan.
"There are young dudes coming up behind me who want to take my throne, but I'm not going to give it up that easy," says Mr. Hoglan, 46 years old, who warms up with drum sticks twice as heavy as usual, a trick he learned from baseball that makes his normal sticks seem lighter. To tone his legs, crucial for foot-drumming, he wears 3-pound ankle weights. When he pops these off, he can really fly....


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The Accidental Remodel Part 1 It Begins!
Well, it's been quite a while since I've posted here. It warms my heart to see so many of you still stopping by! BIG HUGS! I'm here to invite you to join me on our adventure - The Accidental
Remodel! It will be in installments to keep the posts shorter. Don't you just love before and afters? I sure do! I hope
you'll come with us!
So, why have I been AWOL for so long? Well, last year I had eight surgeries, countless other invasive nasties and other things I won't mention, catching up for many years without healthcare. I think four of those surgeries were all in the last 3 months of 2012. So...you'd think I've been recuperating this year, especially if you knew two of the surgeries were on my hands and have a two year recovery. Buuuut...
A week and a half after the last hand surgery and only five months after the other hand, I had a chance to visit my daughter across country and help make over her home. Yes, one and a half weeks after and still in a cast. But my two daughters and I made a shocking difference in her kitchen and dining room. So very gratifying! It's in my Mother's DNA to help my children, even now that they are grown. It's against my nature not to! When I can help, peace and balance is restored to my soul! :)
If you read the last couple of posts, you know I was going stir crazy from a year of illness and recovery. I was longing live again, to DO something, to freshen up the surroundings I'd been looking at endlessly. My DIY muscle was sooooo frustrated and longing to STRETCH!
I had to recover for a while when I got home from my daughter's, my surgery was infected and not good, but my mind was working. When I could do anything at all, my oldest daughter, the one who lost her house in the tornado two years ago, gave me the luscious Benjamin Moore Mascarpone paint that she had left over from rebuilding. It's a soft off white. She did her trim in it...and so did I! Through the grace of God I repainted all the trim, windows and doors in our main living area. It took three coats of a good primer and then four coats of the paint...and I was only covering a light beige!!!! It was a huge job, especially for someone in my condition, but when it was done, it was so much lighter and fresher! And I'd gotten to DO something again! :)
Then a little later we started The Accidental Remodel! For any of this to have proper weight, you need to know some things. When we bought this house fifteen years ago, it was foreclosed, vacant and vandalized. There was no water, no heat, no air, no bathroom (rotted to the floor joists, no tub or sink), etc. They'd taken everything from lights, light switch plates, outlet covers, window locks, rods and shelves in closets, everything. I was just a year after a terrible divorce after 20 yrs. of marriage (no, not my idea). All this dropped the price so that, with God's help, we were able to get out of the apartment (where police were always being called) and back into a house.
My girls and I moved in here on Mother's Day, fifteen years ago. I remember they had hidden pink peonie plants in their closets and gave them to me that day as we moved in. They just finished blooming this week! How I love those peonies! My paternal grandmother also grew them when I was growing up. Now more sweet memories.
So, we were penniless and trying to learn to live this new life, and in a house just short of being condemned. It even had termites! Every day after work I'd go to Lowe's or Home Depot, tell them what was wrong, take notes of what needed to be done and how and they'd fill my cart. Then the next day, back I'd go...it didn't work, tell me again, and we'd go over it again until I succeeded, with God's help and the man who I ended up marrying.
There are some things you should know about was the kitchen (cause that's where we're headed). It had original wallpaper from it's construction eons ago, with tons of wrinkles in it, a horrid stove that never worked right, a dead dish washer and a ruined counter. There were so many things we had to do to make the house livable, that I prioritized jobs. I couldn't get the wallpaper off, so I sponge painted three colors on the walls with a 1" sponge to try to camouflage the wrinkles. It did help. The counter was horrid, and the sink. We saw an old sink w/faucet alongside a road and paid the homeowner $25 for it. Ok that was better. I did a lot of steps to the laminate counter that you can read about under "Money Saving Tips" in the label cloud, and after 3 coats of paint and layers of sealant, I had a surface. It had lots of limitations on it's use, but we did it all these years. The last two years it has chipped and become quite ugly. I hauled the dishwasher out and built shelves in the opening to make it useful.
It started out with the round table in the bay window where we had breakfast. Over time, due to termites taking over the converted (un-heated, un-cooled) garage where I had my office, it moved to the bay window. That crowded things terribly. Then as supplies and resources for teaching Bible Class grew, it became downright horrible. You can read about the cardboard storage towers I built for class and "The Saga Of The Traveling Table". Wherever you needed to go in the kitchen, you had to move the table. It was indeed challenging for years. LOL it's like a 12 Step Program...realized I was powerless over my kitchen and that my kitchen had become un-managable!!! Here's the "before"s. It actually looks much better in these pictures, which were years ago.
Since I know no one has time to read long posts, I'm going to break this up into parts, so please join me for the next part of this crazy story!
Please support this blog by shopping my PayPal store. God bless you! Digifree CraftCrave CraftCrave


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Home Decorators Free Shipping Excellent Beautiful
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HARRISBURG (AP) - Pennsylvania's casino regulators say gross revenue from table games rose 12 percent last month compared to January 2012.
The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board said Friday that table games revenue at 11 casinos exceeded $59 million in January, and generated tax revenue of nearly $9 million.
The number of tables was also up to 1,026. That figure was 962 a year earlier. The Sands casino in Bethlehem leads the state, reporting nearly $14 million in table games revenue last month.
Overall revenue, when slot machines were factored in, was almost $248 million last month. That's a year-over-year increase of just below 2 percent.


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The Bogs® Classic High is the perfect boot to handle anything your day may bring. Built with durable rubber to keep you dry and comfortable and to withstand the harshest conditions. Constructed with 7mm four way stretch Neo-Tech™ insulation. Comfort rated to -40˚F. Contour fit for maximum support and movement and a non-slip outsole to deliver excellent traction on any surface. Perfect for use in paddocks, mud & fields.
Protects from the elements in any season.
Four-way stretch inner bootie provides insulation and comfort.
Lightweight insulation that provides warmth and protection
Lightweight fabric that absorbs and evaporates sweat.
Provides a shock absorbing cushion and foot support that lasts the life of the product
The highest standard of chemical and slip resistance.
Earth-friendly bio-technology that activates to fight unwanted odors.
Guards against snakebites and prevents sharp objects from piercing the boot.


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Just released from the USCCB. Meanwhile, Catholics United is predictably urging prolife activists to shut up about abortion in the health bill. Tell it to the Cardinal. Here he is:
July 29, 2009
TO: Members of the House Energy and Commerce Committee
Dear Representative:
As you consider the "America's Affordable Health Choices Act" (H.R. 3200), I urge you to consider the overall priorities and concerns presented by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops in Bishop William Murphy's July 17 letter to all members of Congress (www.usccb.org/sdwp/national/2009-07-17-murphy-letter-congress.pdf).
The bishops' conference views health care as a basic right belonging to all human beings, from conception to natural death. We therefore have long supported universal health care reform that respects human life and dignity, provides access for all with a special concern for immigrants and the poor, preserves pluralism with respect for rights of conscience, and restrains costs while sharing them equitably.
In this particular letter I am writing specifically about our fundamental requirement that health care legislation respect human life and rights of conscience. Much-needed reform must not become a vehicle for promoting an "abortion rights" agenda or reversing longstanding current policies against federal abortion mandates and funding. In this sense we urge you to make this legislation "abortion neutral" by preserving longstanding federal policies that prevent government promotion of abortion and respect conscience rights.
In this regard several features of H.R. 3200, as introduced on July 14, need to be
1. The legislation delegates to the Secretary of Health and Human Services the power to make abortion a basic or essential benefit in all health plans, or in the "public plan" created by the legislation. This would be a radical change: Federal law has long excluded most abortions from federal employees' health benefits plans and places no requirement on private plans, most of which also decline to cover elective abortions.
2. Because some federal funds are authorized and appropriated by this legislation
without passing through the Labor/HHS appropriations bill, they are not covered by the Hyde amendment and other provisions that have prevented direct federal funding of abortion for over three decades. The legislation needs its own provision against abortion funding to ensure consistency with the policy in all other federal health programs.
3. Provisions such as those requiring timely access to all benefits covered by qualified health plans could be used by courts to override and invalidate state laws regulating abortion, such as laws to ensure women's safety and informed consent and to promote parental involvement when minors consider abortion. These laws are modest, widely supported, and constitutionally sound, but they could fall before a new federal mandate to maximize "access" to abortion. It should be made clear in the legislation that such laws will not be preempted.
4. Several federal laws have long protected the conscience rights of health care providers. These laws prevent governmental bodies from discriminating against individual and institutional health care providers that decline involvement in abortion, and respect the moral and religious convictions of health professionals on abortion and other procedures in programs funded under the Public Health Service Act and other federal laws (see www.usccb.org/prolife/issues/abortion/crmay08.pdf). President Obama recently stated that he accepts these current laws and will do nothing to weaken them. Congress should make the same pledge, by ensuring that this legislation will maintain protection for conscience rights.
As long-time supporters of genuine health care reform, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops is working to ensure that needed health reform is not undermined by abandoning longstanding and widely supported policies against abortion funding and mandates and in favor of conscience protection.
During committee consideration, Reps. Bart Stupak (D-MI) and Joseph Pitts (R-PA) plan to offer amendments to address these problems in H.R. 3200 as introduced. I strongly urge you to support their efforts. By your actions on these issues, you have the ability to help reform our health care system in a way that will truly serve the poor and needy and uphold the dignity of all.
Cardinal Justin Rigali
Archbishop of Philadelphia
USCCB Committee on Pro-Life Activities
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Posted byJack Smithat5:06 PM


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Protection With Style—C7 Style
Why does your new C7 Corvette need a set of floor mats from Lloyd Mats?
To protect those new carpets on your C7's floor and cargo areas, these premium-quality mats are just what you need—and they're available in colors matching the OEM C7 Jet, Gray and Brownstone carpet colors, with your choice of over a dozen beautifully reproduced logos and combination badges found on the new Stingray.
Lloyd Mats is the largest aftermarket manufacturer of logo floor mats for all Corvette models and years, and is the only licensed manufacturer of mats for the new C7 Stingray. Lloyd is the only licensed mat manufacturer for the C6 Corvette, as well.
They're sold through a network of Corvette specialty retailers, as well as from hundreds of online and authorized GM dealer locations.
Check It Out! www.lloydmats.com, www.corvettemats.com
Another LS-Swap Must-Have
Here's another must-have if you're swapping an LS-series V-8 into an early-gen Corvette: An "Econo-Series" LS-swap oil pan from Hamburger's Performance.
It clears your Vette's factory engine crossmember, thanks to its rear-mounted sump and lower profile than a stock LS-series oil pan—which also means better ground clearance than with the stock pan.
Built from two-piece stampings of extra-thick 0.055-inch steel, each pan is jig welded, then block-fit tested for the best possible fit and finish. Hamburger's LS engine swap pan uses the factory O-ring seal to ensure an OE-quality seal.
You'll need to relocate your oil filter, but Hamburger's has you covered with a pair of integrated -10 AN fittings that make hooking up a remote engine oil filter a breeze.
Like all Econo-Series Oil Pans, the LS swap pan is built with a reinforced mounting flange to withstand the higher stresses created by high-horsepower engines, and to provide additional block rigidity. It comes with everything needed to install it, including a magnetic drain plug, specially designed oil pump pickup, and hardware.
Check It Out! www.hamburgersperformance.com
Get On The Ball (Joints)
Attention Corvette restorers and builders: QA1's Ultimate Ball Joints are now offered with additional stud length options, and are available pre-assembled.
Their innovative and durable design, which provides infinite preload adjustment, means smooth, bind-free operation. Engineered to withstand years of use, QA1's ball joints feature precise ball-to-race conformity that provides an even load distribution for unbeatable wear resistance and increased longevity. With their simple construction and assembly, they can be easily cleaned, inspected, and rebuilt—and can be adjusted while they're still on your Vette.
Available in popular bolt-in, press-in, and screw-in styles, they come pre-assembled with your choice of standard-size studs, or studs up to an inch longer than stock. These longer length QA1 ball joints can help to improve your Vette's overall geometry by increasing straight line stability and improving roll center and can also help to free up bind, allowing your Vette's suspension to operate smoothly through its entire range of travel.
And, with prices starting at just $44.95, you can't afford not to install them!
Check It Out! www.qa1.net


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Jordan Adams will return to UCLA for his junior season
LOS ANGELES — Jordan Adams will return to UCLA for his junior season and won't enter the NBA draft.
The sophomore guard from Atlanta said Thursday he's had fun playing college basketball and he's excited about the team the Bruins will have next year. They'll be without sophomore Kyle Anderson and freshman Zach LaVine, both of whom said this week they're leaving school early to go pro.
Adams led the Bruins in scoring with 17.4 points per game, was the second-leading rebounder with 5.3 per game, and set the school single-season steals record with 95. He was named first team All-Pac-12.
Adams says he weighed his options and got feedback on his possible draft status before deciding to stay.
First-year coach Steve Alford says Adams will have a bigger role next year and he's excited to have him stick around.


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Buy My House Fast Hemet, California
Buy My House Fast Hemet, California
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We have people that want to buy your house fast now! If you want to sell your Hemet house quickly and easily, we have a network of real estate investors ready to buy your house fast in Hemet "AS IS." Leaky roofs, plumbing issues, mold problems- no problem! Even if the house is not in need of major repairs- just a bit of updating, our investors are ready with cash to buy your house quickly and easily.
If you want a traditional fair market sale, no problem there either! We are licensed listing specialists, and we are able to get you top dollar. We are Hemet home sales experts, and we can list and sell your Hemet property through traditional means.
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The Bank Nightclub
3600 Las Vegas Blvd S, Las Vegas, NV, 89109
Location: Strip
Type: Clubs And Lounges
(702) 693-7111
The Bank Nightclub at the Bellagio, where the guests enter through a grandiose foyer adorned with bottles of Cristal stacked floor-to-ceiling on each wall. The nightclub's main room presents a dramatic aerial perspective: elegant VIP booths layer the dance floor in an impressive multi-tiered environment. The dance floor, set at the lowest tier, is slightly raised and bordered by reflective translucent glass creating a brilliant focal point in the center of the room. Two full bars, positioned at either side of the club, offers a wide array of libations and fine liquors, while a raised DJ booth overlooking the dance floor at the center of the room is the source of energy and excitement.
The Bank offers the most refined bottle service in Las Vegas. Each table receives a personal service team, led by a cocktail server — adorned in an elegant gold cocktail dress — who will command the bottle service experience.
The Bank is available for private events seven nights a week for groups of 200 to 1000 people. With fully customized video capabilities and state-of-the-art sound and lights, The Bank can be specifically tailored to any group's needs.
The Bank is open Fri – Sun at 10:30 pm. Admission.


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The cost of owning your car? $9,000 a year
The average owner of a sedan has to shell out nearly $10,000 a year to own and operate that car, according to auto club AAA.
A new AAA reports shows, on average, the cost of driving 15,000 miles a year rose 1.17 cents to 60.8 cents per mile, or $9,122 per year. Overall, that's a roughly 2% increase on the cost of operating a car last year.
Auto club AAA studies five cost categories – maintenance, fuel, tires, insurance and depreciation – for its annual "Your Driving Costs" study.
The biggest percentage increase this year was in maintenance costs, which grew by 11.26% to 4.97 cents per mile, on average, for sedan owners. Average costs in all categories are lower for smaller vehicles and higher for bigger ones.
The maintenance cost estimates are based on the cost to maintain a vehicle and perform needed repairs for five years and 75,000 miles, including labor expenses, replacement part prices and the purchase of an extended warranty.
"As a vehicle gets older you tend to encounter more significant repair costs," says Michael Calkins, AAA's manager of technical services.
Since last year's study, there were substantial increases in labor and parts costs for some models, and a significant rise in the price of extended warranties. "People are keeping cars longer," Calkins says. "Extended warranties are seeing a bit of an increase in claims. That's where the costs have gone up."
The second biggest increase: Insurance costs, which rose 2.76%, or $28, to an annual average of $1,029. AAA's insurance cost estimates are based on a low-risk driver with a clean driving record.
Fuel costs rose 1.93% to 14.45 cents per mile for the average sedan owner. The actual average cost of regular gas went up 3.84% to $3.49 per gallon; but several of the vehicles in the AAA study had small improvements in fuel efficiency, which partially offset the fuel cost increase.
Depreciation costs, which had dropped in last year's study, ticked upward slightly, by .78% to $3,571 a year. That might be because, as new vehicle sales recover, more used cars are available, which has softened the resale value of clean older models, Calkins says.
"The length of time people keep cars has been going up for the past several years, since the real estate crash," he says. "The average age of the vehicle on the road now is 11.1 years. It's not just for financial reasons that people are keeping cars long. The quality of the cars is also improving."
Tire costs did not change from last year, remaining at about one cent per mile, on average, for sedan owners.
AAA has published "Your Driving Costs" since 1950. That year, gas cost 27 cents a gallon, and it cost about 9 cents a mile to drive 10,000 miles a year.


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Think you have rats?
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Professional rat removal is the quickest and most effective way to get rid of rats. Expert services offer a reliable form of rat control and a long term solution to a rat infestation.
Finding rats in your home and hearing suspicious noises coming from your roof or behind your walls can be very frightening. Rats discovered in business premises too can pose a real threat to stored products and damage to property.
On top of the health hazard, rats have also been known to cause fires by chewing through wiring. They can even gnaw through wood, plastics and mild steel.
At Ehrlich, our qualified local technicians are backed by global knowledge and innovation. We have the expertise to offer specialized rat control to your home or business, which can guarantee fast removal through the use of safe and targeted treatments.
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Need to get rid of rats in your home or business? Call Ehrlich today at 1-800-837-5520 for fast, effective treatments.
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Previous Lecture
Complete and continue
Purge Your Entire Home + Group Coaching
Foundation Module
Welcome to Purge Your Entire Home! Start here! (2:46)
Meet the teacher - Allie Casazza (1:02)
My story (9:08)
What exactly is minimalism? (2:40)
Why organization doesn't work (3:42)
Jump Start Module
Jump Start Module Intro (1:33)
Jump starting the surfaces (4:29)
Jump starting the living room (4:13)
Jump starting the kitchen (4:42)
Jump starting the toys (4:32)
Jump starting the clothing (2:59)
30 Day Minimalism Challenge
Preparation Module
Preparation Intro (0:42)
Talking to those you live with (1:40)
What if my husband isn't on board with this? (9:59)
Making the time (2:39)
Gathering supplies (1:24)
Mindset Shifts (11:43)
Purging Module
When you're totally overwhelmed (4:51)
What to do with what you purge (2:46)
The master bedroom (3:13)
Make your bed!
The Kids' Rooms & Toys (10:25)
Kids stuff - gifts, relatives, & holidays (2:18)
Kids' clothes (4:22)
Kids Chores
The clothing (4:31)
The living room (1:44)
The kitchen (15:32)
The linen closet (1:09)
Storing the clothing (3:55)
The laundry room (1:33)
The entryway (2:17)
Office/Homeschool Area (4:05)
Google Drive walk-through (digital filing system) (7:03)
The Bathroom (8:53)
Maintenance Module
How to stop buying things you don't need (7:09)
New rules & what to do with your free time (8:55)
Bonuses Module
About the bonuses
Mama Needs a Reboot eBook
Minimalism in Your Money (Video Interview with Sami Womack) (17:50)
A Non-Restricting Capsule Wardrobe (Video Interview with Fashion Blogger, Dani Luecht) (25:40)
What to do with your kids' artwork (7:18)
Dealing with your "clutter catch-all" area (17:13)
Time Management - Time/Color Blocking (23:33)
Minimalism in Your Homeschooling (17:10)
A Tour of My Home (28:00)
Makeover Your Motherhood (108:51)
Group Coaching Calls
Coaching Call #1 [October 4th]
Coaching Call #2 [October 19th]
Coaching Call #3 [November 1st]
A Tour of My Home
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The City of Portland is making it even easier for residents to stay connected about trash collection and recycling with the new Recycle Portland web-tool and mobile app powered by ReCollect. Never miss your waste collection day again and easily find out what items are recyclable! Sign up now using this customized reminder service.
Visit our website or search for Recycle Portland in the Apple and Android stores and then search your home address in the new Collection Calendar tool.
You can then:
While Portland has a very regular collection schedule compared to other cities, and limited holiday interruptions, this tool will provide alerts for residents when last minute cancellations are made due to severe weather conditions.
Not sure how to properly dispose of something? Visit PortlandMaine.Gov/Recycling and use Recycle Portland to find out if a material can be reused, recycled, composted or disposed.
"The residents of our city do a great job recycling and reducing waste," said Troy Moon, the City's Sustainability Coordinator. "It's now even easier to learn about solid waste management in our community with our new online tools and mobile app. Sign up for collection day reminders and never forgot to put out your recycling again!"


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History & MissionThe University of Nebraska was founded on February 15, 1869, less than two years after Nebraska became the nation's 37th state. The original goal of this new land-grant university was, "To afford the inhabitants of this state with the means of acquiring a thorough knowledge of the various branches of literature, science, and the arts." This goal has stood the test of time, inspiring the university's dedication to the education of students, research in a broad range of disciplines, and service to the state's citizens.
The University of Nebraska is the state's only public university. It became the first institution west of the Mississippi River to offer graduate education in 1903. Founded in Lincoln, the university included a medical center in Omaha beginning in 1902.
The University was reorganized under a 1968 act of the Nebraska Legislature. The legislation provided for the addition of the University of Nebraska at Omaha (formerly the municipal University of Omaha) and designated the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and the University of Nebraska Medical Center as separate campuses. In 1991, the University of Nebraska at Kearney (formerly Kearney State College) became a campus of the university. The university also includes many research, extension, and service facilities statewide.


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New York, get ready for an epic game of naked cowboys and indians.
Street performer Robert Burck — known to tourists as the Naked Cowboy — has turned his ability to sing country tunes while wearing nothing but a hat, boots, briefs and a strategically placed guitar into a cottage industry. He's even launched a presidential campaign, telling TMZ that he is "very conservative" and has an "unapologetic commitment to our borders, our language and our culture."
(VIDEO: How to Drive a Golf Cart Through Times Square)
"I've been here [in Times Square] 365 days, every day, for 13 years and change," Burck told the New York Daily News. "He's only been here 16 days and missed two already."
(PHOTOS: Yoga in Times Square: Welcome to the First Day of Summer)
Such threats don't seem to have fazed David, who claims to have a "word-of-mouth contract" with his rival.
"This country was built on handshakes and word-of-mouth agreements. I don't lose, I always win," he said.
David might want to reconsider whether he'd win against Burck, who is very protective of his brand, which he trademarked in 2000, and who has become something of a veteran when it comes to filing lawsuits.
(PHOTOS: Times Square on its 100th Birthday)
In 2008 Burck sued Mars Inc., the company behind M&Ms, albeit unsuccessfully, for $6 million. He took issue with a commercial that shows an M&M dressed in an outfit similar to his own, in front of what appears to be Times Square
Three years later Burck filed a trademark infringement suit for $1.5 million against the CBS network, over the appearance of a drunken man dressed in cowboy hat and carrying a guitar, in promos for the soap opera The Bold and the Beautiful.
He also sent a cease-and-desist letter to Sandra Brondsky, a performer going by the name of the Naked Cowgirl, for "devaluing a real American brand and Icon."
His lawsuit explained, "She has been observed using visual profanity (flipping the bird at the camera) when photographing with people in Times Square.
"This is inconsistent with the manner in which the Naked Cowboy conducts business."


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Archive - Jan 2011
Kansas State sophomore Wally Judge quits team
January 30th
NCAA Power 16 Rankings
The Power 16 was shaken to its core last week as 12 teams suffered at least one loss. We witnessed several surprises in the Big East as Pitt, UCONN, Villanova and Syracuse all lost to teams outside of last week's Power 16. Ohio State strengthened its hold on the top spot after throttling Purdue and pulling out a close win at Northwestern. Last week also produced a legendary game out of the Mountain West Conference as two top 10 teams squared off and Jimmer Fredette became a household name.
Jacob Pullen sounds off on Kansas State's woes
NBA Rookie Report: State of the 2010 Class
Pac Ten Blog
Player of the Week
January 29th
Marshon Brooks Interview
Providence Senior wing Marshon Brooks is having a breakout senior season, currently 6th in the nation and second in the Big East in scoring at 23.4 ppg. Showing tremendous versatility, his 7.5 rpg is also good for 5th in the Big East. Brooks is considered a potential first round pick for the 2011 draft.
NBADraft.net: How did you first become interested in basketball?
ACC Blog
Player of the Week
Iman Shumpert
Less than a week after crowning Iman Shumpert my ACC Co-Player of the Week, he goes and gives statisticians everywhere hand cramps with a triple-double explosion in last Tuesdays victory over Virginia Tech. On Tuesday, Georgia Tech was hosting a game against a very good Virginia Tech opponent. They were coming off a loss at Virginia, but had won their two previous home games against North Carolina and Wake Forest in an impressive fashion. I'll let the 6'5" junior tell the rest of his story with his unreal stat line of 22 points, 12 rebounds, 11 assists and 7 steals. Shumpert also took control of one of the best scorers in the ACC, Malcolm Delaney, holding him to a season low 8 points on 3 of 11 shooting. Shumpert also forced Delaney into 8 turnovers. With Delaney getting eaten alive, the Hokies didn't stand a chance, falling 72-57 to the suddenly respectable Yellow Jackets. Shumpert still has his weaknesses. His efficiency/shot selection is questionable, and his attitude has been considered a red flag by some. The potential is there though. He has good size with long arms. He's quick, explosive and powerful enough to be effective on both ends of the floor. If he can put it all together then he'll be a great NBA prospect.
Ryan Kelly
Whether you choose to include Kyrie Irving or not, there is no denying that Duke's backcourt is one of the strongest in the nation. Nolan Smith, Seth Curry and Andre Dawkins along with hybrid forward Kyle Singler give Duke a great chance to repeat as national champions this season. However, they have a weakness and it's the overall depth of their frontcourt. The Plumlees are athletic and doing some things well, but alone they can't make up for the departures of flop-wizard Lance Thomas and lumberjack Brian Zoubek. Where, oh where will they find a little depth? Enter 6'11" Ryan Kelly, the skinny sophomore sharpshooter who's suddenly becoming a very helpful role player for Coach K and the Blue Devils. His averages on the season are very modest (18.7 mpg, 7.1 ppg, 3.7 rpg) but recently he's seen a great improvement, averaging 28.3 minutes, 15 points and 6 rebounds a game in his last three games. He's been very efficient during this period, shooting 84% from the floor and 80% (8/10) from behind the arc. What Kelly does on the offensive end is open up the court. A big man with such a potent shooting stroke requires attention, which gives Dawkins, Smith and Singler more space to penetrate. Defensively, Kelly's length provides a good shot-blocking presence (1.6 blocks in 18.7 minutes a game). Overall, Kelly is becoming more important than we thought he would be earlier in the season. He's been a pleasant surprise for Duke, and they surely hope he can continue to make a significant impact.
January 28th
Weekend tip-off: Texas looks to keep streak going vs. Missouri
Williams a surprise star for Arizona
Big East Blog
Player of the Week
Ben Hansbrough, G, Notre Dame
Hansbrough put up 28 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists in a win over Marquette, and followed with a 19 point, 7 assist 4 rebound performance in a win at Pittsburgh. He put the Panthers away with a spin move in the lane and a finish at the rim, showing the national television audience that he's more than just an underappreciated little brother who can only shoot from the outside.


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Daxti of Xartaski Temple
The sun burned hot, pushing down on the sand and the stones that composed Xartaski Temple and everything around it. Daxti scanned the horizon, looking for trouble that the priest said could be coming. Axtrami was not a trickster god, but he did often challenge his faithful in creative ways. Daxti felt a pull of satisfaction as he saw the sign of raiders comeing for the temple. Doubltess it was another band of wretched orbless exiles, cast-aways who had not found their way to one of the jackal dens of the Sect of the Shattered Orb.
The battle was violent, the raiders taken in with a band of marauding Latrani Orcs and other desert chaff. Daxti fell thrice in defence of the temple and on his third fall he did not rise again. The sun burned into his eyes as he saw a face of storm clouds and bright eyes. Hands tocuhed him, something was placed in his mouth and he could no longer speak. Agreeing to a pact Daxti rose again and shrugged off the strikes of the orcs and the mongrel orbless. They fell back in horror as the glass warrior fell upon them in silent fury, slashing with a half destroyed ouzala and the fingers of his off hand hard and sharp as tempered glass.
Ouzquin Xactaki: Revenants of Glass
On rare occasions, faithful Ouzquin Dremorix are chosen by their god Axtrami to continue serving him even past the end of their mortal life. These become Revenants of Glass, also known as glass zombies by the less that pious of Axtrami. They have been prepared for the afterlife, hemisa placed in their mouth and mirrored circlet placed over their eyes. When the revenant rises to do it's duty the hemisa remains in its mouth and though the circlet often falls away, the eyes have taken on the vitrious texture of glass and are perfectly clear.
The extremeties, name the fingers and the toes harden into nearly unbreakable glass claws. This vitrification continues throughout the existance of the revenant, progressing about half an inch or so a year. After a century, such a revenant will have arms made almost entirely of smooth glass with the hands being refined into slashing weapons, the fingernails now honed to razor sharpness. The legs progress slightly slower but to much the same effect. After several centuries the revenant can be made entirely of glass and begin to exhibit odd ornamentation, such as decorative fluting, recarved body barbs and other things to turn the revenant into a undead weapon.
Most of the Revenants of Glass are attached to a certain area, with several being known to haunt the ruins of Xartaski temple. Though the temple was ruined some many centuries ago, the small number of glass revenants that were spawned defending it have rendered it inviolate since then. combat is launched from a surprise position, with the revenant often hiding just below the sand. Claw attacks are fast and rather than linger one a single foe until dead, the glass revenant will use cleaving attacks, attempt to disarm foes, and other such violent disabling actions until all percieved foes are disabled and defeated. Then at its leisure the revenant dispatches the foes with it's glass clawed hands.
The body of a glass revenant is tough. During the early part of its long existance, it has the same toughness as a typical zombie, immune to pain, able to weather many direct hits and keep coming. As the glass slowly dominates it's body, this toughness increases. For each century that a glass revenant survives, it gains a increased resistance to magic, as much as 5% a century to a max of 30% resistance. For each century of existance, the creature's armor trait increases by a point. While thin glass is easy to shatter, thick glass can be incredibly strong and durable.
Wounding and Healing
Piercing and slashing weapons like arrows and swords deal half base damage to glass revenants, and bludgeoning and crushing weapons deal regular damage. Once the body is entirely glass, usually taking two centuries, the glass revenant is completely immune to fire mundane or magical. The glass revenant can absorb lightning strikes or lightning based magics and convert the damage into health gained as lightning is the holy element of Axtrami. Othewise healing is done through slumbering buried in the sands near a holy place or near the site of their mortal death.
Gouzali the Traitor
The name of Gouzali is not spoken of in polite conversation among the Ouzquin. Gouzali was a glass shifter who had the sacred task of creating the hemisa that his fellow Ouzquin would wear throughout their lives. Yet despite this position of importance and prestige, Gouzali wanted more, much more.
To this end he would 'sell' hemisa to members of the Sect of the Shattered Orb. The price was generally the broken pieces of a certain orb, often belonging to a rival of his. In this fashion, Gouzali made himself an important and powerful man. He would sell his glasswares in secret to outsiders, told lies of the people, and decieved all he could to gain green natural glass, gold, and jewels.
It was Gouzali who lead the Sect and the orcs to Xartaski Temple, and it was he who threw open the doors of the inner mysteries to loot the relics of Axtrami. Such betrayals do not go long unnoticed and many would have considered vengeance served when Gouzali faced the first of the glass revenants and perished in the sands. Unfortunately for him, rather than shatter his orb the revenant placed his orb in his mouth and circlet over hie dead eyes, trapping him within his body where Axtrami's touched him and changed him.
Gouzali rose, his eyes burning chips of obsidian, his hands twisted and blackened into shards of obsidian. Pain wracked him as his spirit recoiled from the ancient heat the blasted the black glass out of the earth. The spirit of gouzali was tormented with thirst and with hunger, and with the pain of volcanic fire. Many centuries after the fall of Xartaski Temple, the numbers of obsidian revenants, those who violate the faith by deed and creed, have risen in number.
Nantuin Xactaki: Revenants of Obsidian
These zombies of black volcanic glass progress in much the same fashion as Revenants of Glass, save that rather than being converted to glass and being filled with a certain radiance, the obsidian revenants draw in and hold the heat of the sun and are tormented by this. They have the same improvements in armor and invunerabilities to weapons and such. However, fires actually cause the obsidian revenants to heal damage, though they still feel the full pain of being burned. Fire magics are preferred as the exposure time is much shorter and the health gain is faster. Lightning, conversely actually deals twice the normal damage to the obsidian revenants, though in recorded time, no obsidian revenant has been so blessed by Axtrami to be blasted to pieces by one of his bright shafts.
While Revenants of Glass are quite rare and bound to stay in certain areas, Revenants of Obsidian are rather more common. While this might seem like a great problem considering how powerful these creatures can become, the Glass Revenants all tend to be much older and quite wise while the Obsidian Revenants tend to be less than a century old and often bestial in nature. This is explained in the sutras of the Ouzquin as the Revenants of Glass were created to protect holy places and people, whereas the Revenants of Obsidian were placed to test the skill, courage, and faith of Axtrami's people.
The Easy Kill
The revenants, glass and obsidian, have a singular weakness. The hemisa in their mouth is the keystone to their functioning. While difficult, a called shot to the mouth has a chance to break the hemisa and undo the holy power that holds the revenant together. A glass revenant's hemisa is hard to see as its head and jaw are glass, just like the hemisa itself. When struck in this fashion, rather than collapse, the glass portions of the revenant explode outwards. young revenants do no damage with this, but a five century old revenant would detonate like a 300 pound glass bomb, likely perforating the body of his slayer.
Obsidian revenants face a more painful end. When the hemisa breaks the heat of the obsidian is unchecked and what organic parts of the revenant remain are quickly boiled dry by the heat, often causing them to wail and spew hot blood everywhere. Older obsidian revenants flare with magical fire and collapse into a smoldering heap of obsidian shards.
Plot Hooks
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Suggested Submissions
- Axtrami Haiq Ouzala Items By: Shadoweagle
- Latrani Orc NPCs By: Scrasamax


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Babycakes Cupcake Maker
When you read this, consider how America is not different from this and take God's word to heart.
1 "The word that came to Jeremiah from the LORD, saying, 2 "Stand in the gate of the LORD'S house and proclaim there this word and say, 'Hear the word of the LORD, all you of Judah, who enter by these gates to worship the LORD!'" 3 Thus says the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel, "Amend your ways and your deeds, and I will let you dwell in this place. 4 Do not trust in deceptive words, saying, 'This is the temple of the LORD, the temple of the LORD, the temple of the LORD.' 5 For if you truly amend your ways and your deeds, if you truly practice justice between a man and his neighbor, 6 if you do not oppress the alien, the orphan, or the widow, and do not shed innocent blood in this place, nor walk after other gods to your own ruin, 7 then I will let you dwell in this place, in the land that I gave to your fathers forever and ever.
8 "Behold, you are trusting in deceptive words to no avail. 9 Will you steal, murder, and commit adultery and swear falsely, and offer sacrifices to Baal and walk after other gods that you have not known, 10 then come and stand before Me in this house, which is called by My name, and say, 'We are delivered!'—that you may do all these abominations? 11 Has this house, which is called by My name, become a den of robbers in your sight? Behold, I, even I, have seen it," declares the LORD.
12 "But go now to My place which was in Shiloh, where I made My name dwell at the first, and see what I did to it because of the wickedness of My people Israel. 13 And now, because you have done all these things," declares the LORD, "and I spoke to you, rising up early and speaking, but you did not hear, and I called you but you did not answer, 14 therefore, I will do to the house which is called by My name, in which you trust, and to the place which I gave you and your fathers, as I did to Shiloh. 15 I will cast you out of My sight, as I have cast out all your brothers, all the offspring of Ephraim.
16 "As for you, do not pray for this people, and do not lift up cry or prayer for them, and do not intercede with Me; for I do not hear you. 17 Do you not see what they are doing in the cities of Judah and in the streets of Jerusalem? 18 The children gather wood, and the fathers kindle the fire, and the women knead dough to make cakes for the queen of heaven; and they pour out drink offerings to other gods in order to spite Me. 19 Do they spite Me?" declares the LORD. "Is it not themselves they spite, to their own shame?" 20 Therefore thus says the Lord GOD, "Behold, My anger and My wrath will be poured out on this place, on man and on beast and on the trees of the field and on the fruit of the ground; and it will burn and not be quenched."
21 Thus says the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel, "Add your burnt offerings to your sacrifices and eat flesh. 22 For I did not speak to your fathers, or command them in the day that I brought them out of the land of Egypt, concerning burnt offerings and sacrifices. 23 But this is what I commanded them, saying, 'Obey My voice, and I will be your God, and you will be My people; and you will walk in all the way which I command you, that it may be well with you.' 24 Yet they did not obey or incline their ear, but walked in their own counsels and in the stubbornness of their evil heart, and went backward and not forward. 25 Since the day that your fathers came out of the land of Egypt until this day, I have sent you all My servants the prophets, daily rising early and sending them. 26 Yet they did not listen to Me or incline their ear, but stiffened their neck; they did more evil than their fathers.
27 "You shall speak all these words to them, but they will not listen to you; and you shall call to them, but they will not answer you. 28 You shall say to them, 'This is the nation that did not obey the voice of the LORD their God or accept correction; truth has perished and has been cut off from their mouth." Jeremiah 7:1-28
Yesterday I shared a tutorial for a very cool cake made using the Babycakes Cakepop Maker. Today I'm sharing my first few tries using the Babycakes Cupcake/Pie Maker.
Reading the reviews, everyone says they don't heat evenly - to check doneness of every cupcake, so I wasn't surprised to find it true. Here I followed their directions for two crust pies from ready made pie crust. I filled them with mincemeat (a fav of my husband - but I won't touch it - yech!). I cooked the allotted time from their directions and none looked done. I kept cooking a lot longer checking every 2 min. In the end I simply couldn't let them cook longer or the edges would have burnt, but still only three were done on top. There was some filling oozing out between the bottoms and tops and it oozed out of the tops of two baby pies too. But it doesn't matter to him - he's enjoying them. I am a bit disappointed.Then I tried making just crust shells for custards and such. First I tried it following their instructions. I had envisioned perfect little pie crusts like those you can purchase, only better because I could make the myself at home. I was sorely disappointed. They were not at all attractive or uniform.
I tried the rest of them using the Babycakes cutter and then forming them in the machine by hand. I got somewhat better results, but still FAR from the adorable store bought ones. I went ahead and filled them with coconut cream pie filling (requested by a brother at church) and topped them with toasted coconut. They looked better with the topping, but they were still very poorly shaped and very un-uniform. :( But, like all the other goodies, they disappeared quickly, so all was not lost. I'll keep practicing and HOPE to have better results.Please support this blog by shopping my PayPal store. God bless you!Download here for 24 hours, then available in my store. If you can't find it, e-mail me. Check out my TERMS OF USE here.The password is jesuschristislord.Digifree CraftCrave CraftCrave