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Another Overhyped Challenge to U.S. Power
Last April, the BRICS - Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa - met in the Chinese resort of Sanya and called for changes in international financial institutions and a move away from the dollar.
Comprising 40% of the world's population and a quarter of the global economy, this new organization appears to represent an important sign of declining American influence. But such appearances are misleading.
When Dominique Strauss-Kahn suddenly resigned this May as director general of the International Monetary Fund, the BRICS were unable to agree on a candidate, and despite the rhetoric of change France will retain the position.
Goldman Sachs coined the term BRIC in 2001 to call attention to profitable opportunities in what the investment firm considered "emerging markets." But what was intended as an economic term has taken on a political life of its own. In June 2009, the foreign ministers of the four countries met for the first time in Yekaterinburg, Russia, to try to transform a catchy acronym into an effective political forum, and this year they added South Africa to the group.
After the recent financial crisis, Goldman Sachs upped the ante and projected that the combined gross domestic product of the BRICS might exceed that of the G-7 countries by 2027, about 10 years earlier than they initially believed. Such simple extrapolations of current economic growth rates often turn out to be mistaken because of unforeseen events. But whatever the merits of this linear economic projection, the term makes little political sense.
While a meeting of the BRICS may be convenient for coordinating short-term diplomatic tactics, the acronym lumps together disparate countries that have deep divisions. It makes little sense to include Russia, a former superpower, with the four developing economies. Of the five members, Russia has the smallest and most literate population and a much higher per-capita income. More importantly, Russia is declining while the others are rising in power resources. Russia today lacks diversified exports, faces severe demographic and health problems, and in President Dmitry Medvedev's own words, greatly needs "modernization."
When one looks closely at the numbers, China's growing economy and vast resources are the heart of the BRICS acronym, though the role of democratic Brazil is a pleasant surprise. When the BRIC acronym was first invented, some argued that a country with a growth rate as skimpy as its bikinis, and chronic political instability, did not belong. Now, as the Economist notes, "in some ways, Brazil outclasses the other BRICs. Unlike China, it is a democracy. Unlike India, it has no insurgents, no ethnic and religious conflicts nor hostile neighbors. Unlike Russia, it exports more than oil and arms and treats foreign investors with respect." With good growth and a series of democratic elections, the key now will be whether Brazil can continue to keep inflation under control.
But the future relevancy of BRICS depends on the diplomatic efforts of China to expand its influence. Some years ago, Brazil created an organization called IBSA that held summits of the three large democracies: India, Brazil and South Africa. China, not a democracy, has now suggested that IBSA be wrapped into the BRICS framework. At the same time, China has resisted the claims of India and Brazil for permanent membership on the U.N. Security Council that would rival its own status.
How seriously should we take the role of BRICS? The Beijing Review recently claimed the organization is "representing the developing world." The economic rise of China, India and Brazil is important, but for economic decisions it is their role in the G-20 that matters. Moreover, in that larger forum, Brazil and India can complain about the effects on their economies of China's undervalued currency, which they hesitate to do in the smaller BRICS meetings.
In political terms, China, India and Russia are competitors for power in Asia. Russia worries about China's proximity and influence in Siberia, and India is worried about Chinese encroachment into the Indian Ocean as well as their Himalayan border disputes. As a challenge to the United States, BRICS is unlikely to become a serious alliance or even a political organization of like-minded states. More aptly, it should be seen as a locus for critics to occasionally tweak the tail feathers of the eagle.


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Photo credit goes to Greg Schaler Photography; thank you to Sticky Fingers Bakery for permission to use the image!
The subject of vegan pastries really brings out some passionate feelings. There are those (usually non-vegans) who swear that they don't taste as good as dairy desserts; there are those (usually vegans) who insist that they taste a whole lot better. As for the Cakespy crew? While few of us eat a strictly vegan diet, perhaps our vegan vs. non-vegan cupcake tasting best sums up our feelings: while they can sometimes taste different than their dairy counterparts, vegan pastries are often good--really good--once you get past certain preconceived notions.
However, sometimes a baked good comes along that is just so good that it defies labels: vegan, non-vegan, who cares—it's just good.
And certainly, the Cowvin can be loved for its story as well as its taste: the name is inspired by a real-life veal calf by the same name who was rescued from becoming a special of the day by do-gooders in the DC metro area. The little guy was placed in the Poplar Spring Animal Sanctuary in Poolesville, Maryland, where he lived out his days in bucolic bliss. Cowvin loved oats, so it seemed appropriate to name an oatmeal cookie-cream bar in his honor--especially since it is dairy-free!
Now that's what we'd call a sweet treat—one you'll enjoy whether you're vegan or not!
Want to make 'em? Well, you're on your own there—the recipe's top secret! However, the kind folks at Sticky Fingers wouldn't leave you hanging; they'll ship them nationwide for $18.50 per half dozen (so worth it) plus shipping and handling; order them (and other pastries too!) by phone: (202) 299-9700, or order online at stickyfingersbakery.com .

subset: commoncrawl


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Knitwear designer Stefanie Japel teaches you how to knit a sweater with adjustments to the bust, waist and hips to perfectly fit any body type.
You've found the perfect sweater pattern and even bought the perfect yarn. Before you spend days, weeks, or even months knitting the sweater just to find that it's too tight in the bust, rides up in front, pulls across the hips or hangs like a sack, stop and get step-by-step help from Stefanie. Learn how to customize a sweater pattern to fit any body size and shape. See how to create bust darts, decrease stitches to show off a waistline, add stitches to fit anyone's hips, and change the length and taper of sleeves for a truly personalized knitted garment.
If you're not delighted with your Bluprint experience, we'll make it right or give you a full refund.


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Looking for some Game Day recipes to try? Check out my team's ultimate favorite! It's Taco Tower with seven layers; they're are some nutritious & delicious combinations!
Layer 1 = Refried Beans (16 oz. can)
Layer 2 = Guacamole (see below)
Layer 3 = Seasoned low or non fat sour cream (see below)
Layer 4 = Chopped sweet onions or scallions
Layer 5 = Chopped black, pitted olives (14. 5 oz. can)
Layer 6 = Chopped tomatoes
Layer 7 = Shredded reduced fat sharp cheddar cheese (8 oz.)
Guacamole Recipe: for layer #2 by Jodie Fitz
2 ripe avocado's
1/2 clove garlic (from a large clove)
1 tablespoon finely chopped onion
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 – 2 tablespoons finely chopped tomatoes
1/2 teaspoon cracked pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
Using a knife cut into the avocado lengthwise and cut around it through to the pit in the center. There are some FANTASTIC avocado cutters that are great for kids to use that don't have the sharp edges so that they can complete the entire process from beginning to end.
Once you've cut around the entire avocado, twist it and separate the two sides. Remove the pit. Scoop out the ripe avocado and mash it up. Add in the the salt, pepper, lime juice, onions and tomatoes and stir it all together. We are light on the onions and tomatoes in this mix due to the other layers.
Seasoned Sour Cream: Layer #3
16 oz. low fat or no fat sour cream
1 package of taco seasoning
Simply fold the seasoning into the sour cream until it is thoroughly mixed.
Folding is a GREAT lesson to share with kids. I like to tell kids I'm cooking with that when you read it in a recipe it's like a STOP sign that says don't use an electric mixer on my, stir me slowly and gently in a circular motion.
Disclosure: I am pleased to be working with MVP Health Care and the MVP Generation Go Program, which has sponsored this post. My participation is voluntary and my opinion is always my own, as is any advice offered.Jodie Fitz


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Gold Llama Charm Bracelet
Gold Llama Charm Bracelet Expandable Bangle Personalized Bangle Initial Charm Bangle Customized Jewelry
♥ You will receive 1 bracelet
♥ Initial charm 10mm choose from a drop down menu.
♥ Bangle plated metal (expandable), dimension: approx. 2.5" (64 mm) - expands to 3" (76 mm)
♥ I do not include invoices in any packages unless requested, note can be added to recipient upon request.
♥ All these products are handmade/stamp one-by-one, so please understand that there will be slight differences from the one illustrated here.
♥ We ship in 1-3 business day otherwise note, but we do not ship on Saturdays, Sundays, and Holidays. It may sometimes take a bit longer when we have unusually large volume of orders. Thank you for your patience!
$18.49 $13.99
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If You Go
What: "How to Apply for a Job Online" workshop hosted by FremontConnect
When: 7 – 8 p.m. Tuesday
Where: City Hall, 128 Main St.
Info: Class is free of charge. RSVP by calling 275-8350 or email firstname.lastname@example.com
Living in a day and age when technology seems to advance faster than most people can keep up, it's helpful to have some friendly instruction on how to maneuver through the Internet highway.
FremontConnect, a local technology planning team represented by Fremont County businesses, community leaders, government representatives, interested citizens and the Governors Office of Information Technology, is extending an instructional hand by offering a series of digital literacy workshops free of charge to the community.
The first workshop is from 7 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at Cañon City Hall at 128 Main St. "How to Apply for a Job Online" will be presented by the Workforce Center.
Judy Lohnes, executive director of the Upper Arkansas Area Council of Governments and member of the FremontConnect team, said many employers require potential workers to apply online and no longer accept a paper application.
"We have in the community who don't have access to a computer, who don't know how to get online, who don't know how to fill out the applications — they can't even get to first base," she said. "Both the library and the workforce centers are telling us now that is a fairly portion of the people they see on a daily basis is people wanting utilize computers to apply for a job online and seeking assistance in doing so."
Lohnes said FremontConnect hopes to address community digital literacy through the workshops, which likely will be recorded and posted to its website for people to view who were unable to attend.
"We heard that some of the downtown merchants said they knew social media is important but wasn't sure how to use it to promote their business," she said. "One of the workshops will address that."
Future classes include Basic Description of Social Media, Aug. 13; How to Use Social Media to Promote Your Business, Aug. 27; What is the Cloud and How Will it Affect My Business? Sept 10; and Digital Security and Safe Precautions, Sept. 24. All classes are from 7 to 8 p.m. at City Hall and are free to the public. To reserve a spot, call Lohnes at 275-8350 or email email@example.com.
FremontConnect works to understand and aggregate county Internet demand and create strategies to meet this demand. For more information, visit fremontconnect.com.


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I am not a modder as yet, but an aspiring voice actor. Now, I have never done any voice acting stuff, but it´s never to late to try I think. I wont start with this project right away, but I will in the future. Right about now I have neither the equipment nor the skills for it, but I will in the near future. So for now, I´m just going to follow what my hubby is doing here, and see if I ever get the nerve to talk in public so to speak.
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EEEP! I've been having fun putting together random fabric stacks every friday on Instagram. A few weeks ago I put together this beauty and called it "Glow with the flow"
Super awesome Brenda from Pink Castle fabrics put up the bundle in her shop so that you can get your hands on it too.
Stop by and grab one limited availability.
And if you're on Instagram comes follow me @sew_fantastic and tag your fabric stacks with #fabricstackfriday
Have a great weekend everyone!


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News Release
Lancaster County
Date: April 11, 2013
For more information contact
David J. Shively
(402) 441-7311
Voter Registration Sites for Saturday, April 13th
LINCOLN -- The Lancaster County Election Commissioner will conduct voter registration at several sites on Saturday, April 13th. Any Nebraska resident who will be 18 on or before November 5, 2013, has moved, changed his or her name, or would like to change their political party affiliation, may register to vote at the following times and locations:
- Saturday, April 13th - 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
50th and O Streets
- Saturday, April 13th - 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
84th and Holdrege Streets
- Saturday, April 13th - 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
40th and Old Cheney Road
- Saturday, April 13th - 12:00 p.m. (noon) - 2:00 p.m.
70th and Pioneers Blvd.
- Saturday, April 13th - 12:00 p.m. (noon) - 2:00 p.m.
5020 North 27th Street
Individuals may also register to vote through the mail. Mail-in registration forms are available at most post offices, banks, and libraries. A voter registration form is also available on the Election Commissioner's web site which may be downloaded, printed and mailed to the Election Commissioner's office. The web site address is: lancaster.ne.gov/election. Mail-in voter registration applications must be postmarked no later than Friday, April 19th in order to be effective for the May 7th General Election.
Citizens may also register to vote at the Election Commissioner's Office, 601 North 46th Street, through Friday, April 26th. The office is open weekdays from 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Individuals who have questions regarding voter registration should contact the Election Commissioner's Office at (402) 441-7311.


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Human evolution: Oldest human remains found in Israel?
Daniel Estrin reports for MSNBC ( 12/27/2010 ),
JERUSALEM — Israeli archaeologists said Monday that they may have found the earliest evidence yet for the existence of modern humans, and if the find is confirmed, it could upset theories of the origin of humans.Well, then, we all have the right of return, I guess.
A Tel Aviv University team excavating a cave in central Israel said teeth found in the cave are about 400,000 years old and resemble those of other remains of modern humans, known scientifically as Homo sapiens, found in Israel. The earliest Homo sapiens remains found until now are half as old.
"It's very exciting to come to this conclusion," said archaeologist Avi Gopher, whose team examined the teeth with X-rays and CT scans and dated them according to the layers of earth where they were found.
He stressed that further research is needed to solidify the claim. If it does, he said, "this changes the whole picture of evolution."
The accepted scientific theory is that Homo sapiens originated in Africa and migrated out of the continent starting sometime around 80,000 years ago. Gopher said if the remains are definitively linked to Homo sapiens, it could mean that modern humans in fact originated in what is now Israel.
On the other hand, most of these types of claims, the early press notices are the last you ever hear of them.
Labels: human evolution


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Memorial Day Weekend Lane And Road Closures In Michigan – 2013
Memorial Day weekend provides a great opportunity to travel and spend some time away from home...but getting there can be a challenge.
Many road constructions projects are opening up lanes or being put on hold this weekend, but not all.
On Friday at 3:00pm, traffic restrictions will be removed on 83 of 130 Michigan Department of Transportation projects.
Good news, but still a lot to be aware of as you travel this weekend.
Michigan.gov lists all of the MDOT construction projects in West Michigan for Memorial Day weekend:
- I-96 in Crockery Township, Ottawa County, has one lane open in each direction with a traffic shift. Ramp closures include:
- The eastbound M-104 ramp to eastbound I-96,
- The westbound I-96 exit ramp to M-104 in Nunica, and
- The eastbound I-96 exit ramp to Cleveland Street (Nunica exit).
- I-96, Ionia County, has traffic shifts in each direction over the Portland Trail with two lanes open in each direction.
- I-196 in Grand Rapids, Kent County, has one lane open on eastbound I-196 over the Grand River near Market Avenue, and all lanes open on westbound I-196. The Market Avenue ramp to eastbound I-196 is closed.
- M-11 (28th Street) in Kentwood/Cascade Township, Kent County, has one lane open in each direction with traffic shifted between Patterson Avenue and I-96.
- US-131 in Grand Rapids, Kent County, has two northbound lanes open from I-196 to Ann Street, and all southbound lanes open. The eastbound I-196 ramp to northbound US-131 is closed, as well as the Leonard Street/Scribner Avenue ramp to northbound US-131.
See a list of all of the MDOT construction projects in Michigan over Memorial Day weekend.
Follow Matt Milhouse on Facebook and Twitter.


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|Artist's Corner Share your artwork, poetry or anything artistic.
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School buses began to unload the students in the parking lot of Ponds End High School. Shiloh rubbed his thumb that held his loyalty band.
Its so hard to believe that Im engaged at 16. I wonder if Noelle will show up today.
Shiloh thought to himself.
The bus soon came to a stop as students began to walk towards the door. Sayings such as School blows! and I cant believe I have a tutor this year! were heard from both freshman and seniors alike. When all of the riled up students left the bus Shiloh put his back pack over his shoulder and began to walk off of the bus. Noelle was waiting beside the front doors wearing a floral skirt and a bright pink polo to match the flowers on the white tiers of her skirt.
Shiloh ran up to her and wrapped his arms around her.
Its so nice to finally meet you in person. Noelle said cheerfully.
They gave each other a seconds long kiss on the lips. When the kissing had ceased they both stared into each others eyes. Romans car pulled up in the parking lot.
You have a month late before you become the king. Roman said firmly.
Jared opened the door silently and slammed the passenger seat door. He caught sight of Noelle and Shiloh and began walking towards them.
Hey! Jareds here! Noelle said pointed to him while he walked slowly like a turtle.
Jared lifted his face up off the ground and ran over to Noelle and Shiloh. He had a scowl upon his face.
Jer? Shiloh asked.
Jared grabbed Shilohs shoulders and breathed in and out heavily.
What the hell is your problem?! Shiloh exclaimed.
Jared let go of Shiloh and looked at Noelles frightened face. She had tears in her eyes.
Noelle and Shiloh, I have some really bad news. Jared mumbled.
Jared let out a massive sigh.
In a month, I have to quit high school and take over the throne. Jared said.
What?! Noelle and Shiloh shouted at the same time.
Jared nodded his head.
Is that why your hair is all cut off? Shiloh asked.
Dude, its two inches above my shoulders! Chill out! Jared exclaimed.
Noelle walked up to Jared and squished his hair with her hands.
I think you look great! Noelle complemented.
Jared smiled and ran his fingers through his hair.
Thanks. Jared said.
Keys were heard from the school. The janitor was locking the front doors. Noelle glanced over. The lights were being turned off.
Whats going on? Shiloh asked.
Police cars began to pull into to the parking lot.
I have no idea, but we need to run! Noelle said.
Jared and Shiloh faced Noelle.
Theres someone in the school. I can feel a presence of another demon. Noelle said.
Shiloh grasped Noelle hand.
We need to go to Tenebris Lux*. Jared said.
The threesome rushed out of the parking lot. A police man rolled down the window.
Hey! Where are you kids supposed to be? He asked.
Far away from here! Noelle shouted.
The policeman took a sip of his Dunkin Donuts coffee and examined the label.
They forgot to add espresso. That still doesnt mean I can chase after those kiddos. The policeman zoomed out of the parking lot and out to the sidewalk.
Shiloh looked behind him.
Shit! The cops found us! Shiloh exclaimed.
The policeman parked his car and got out of the car. Noelle, Jared and Shiloh stopped and stared at the policeman.
Hi. The three of them greeted out of breath.
Can I get your names? The policeman asked pulling out a notepad and pen.
Noelle looked at Shiloh. Shiloh looked at Jared. Noelle looked at Jared. Jared looked at Noelle.
You with the long hair! Whats your name? He asked.
Jared Owen Schwarz. Jared replied.
The policeman jotted down Jareds name on the paper.
You with the blue eyes! Whats your name? The policeman asked.
Noelle Madison Davis. Noelle replied.
Okay and how about you Hot Topic customer of the month? The policeman asked.
Shiloh Abel Kumori. Shiloh replied.
Abel, like Cain and Abel? The policeman asked laughing.
Shiloh sneered at the cop.
My mom's parents are very religious thank you very much. Shiloh said.
The policeman got back into his car.
Alright! Ill give your parents a call. Everyone is a neighbor in Ponds End. The policeman said.
Yo! Jared said.
What is it 30 Seconds? The policeman asked.
Can you contact my aunt instead of my father? Jared asked.
No can do 30 Seconds. If you live with him and hes your parent he has to know. The policeman said closing the door and driving away.
Great. Jared said sarcastically.
All of this running proves that we need Gym Class as much as the Theatre dweebs need acting lessons. Noelle said.
Shiloh looked at the school. There were buses loading with students. The principal spoke into the intercom.
Attention Ponds End students and staff. A suspicious man has been reported near the school building. Please get on your bus home. A message has been sent out to your parents or guardians. Mr. Kingsley said.
Okay! Lets get bus 17. They unload right in front of my house. Shiloh said.
We are the Nos Sunt Autem Inferi Maniplus!*
*We are the hellfire squad!
If you get the music reference I will give you a virtual hug
cool! looks like a tattoo
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Brighten your decor with the designer Vanilla Metallic color of this double gourd glass table lamp.More Details >
This stylish double gourd glass table lamp from the Color + Plus™ collection offers a brilliant color accent for your home decor. The designer Vanilla Metallic base features small metal flakes and is hand-crafted by our experienced artisans in California. The high-quality look sparkles luxuriously - like a new car in the sunlight - and is topped by a clean off-white drum shade. Lamp base U.S. Patent # 8,899,798


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AboutFine art film photographer
Born 9th May 1971, Ilford
Currently lives in Suffolk, UK
In our digital world of 'instant everything' which is mostly mass produced, Paul Cooklin is drawn to analogue film and traditional darkroom printing. His preference for film over digital also derives from the nostalgic and timeless 'look' of black and white film, with it's tonal qualities and grain. He is also drawn to the rules of the negative and the traditional printing methods which he finds more rewarding due to the hands-on approach needed to make an individual silver gelatin print.
Cooklin's body of work consists of an eclectic collection of prints, spanning various photographic genres which have featured in numerous publications, including TIME magazine, and are represented by fine art publishers and galleries worldwide.


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| For Kids Ages 7-10
What should you do when the Air Quality Index is orange? Let the chameleons K.C., Koko, and Kool, show you how EPA measures pollution in the air. En Español
For Kindergarten and First Grade
When is the best day to go outside and play? Buster Butterfly shows you when the air is clean and it's good to play outside and when you should stay inside to play.
|Why is Coco Orange? - Coco the chameleon can't change colors, and his asthma is acting up. Read how Coco and his friends at Lizard Lick Elementary solve this mystery as they learn about air quality and how to stay healthy when the air quality is bad. This picture book was produced by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for all children, especially those with asthma, and their caretakers.


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Though the 2013 edition of Comfortech is in the books, this video montage should give those of you who missed it a view of some of the great highlights of the conference and show. Use this as a reminder to mark your calendars now for Comfortech 2014 when we invade the city of Nashville for the 5th time. That's right, Comfortech 2014 will be in Nashville, TN, September 10-12, 2014 and we hope to see all of you there.
Thanks to Dan Vastyan for shooting this video and to the Mechanical Hub for letting us embed it into our site.
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Matters of Scale - After a Few Years of Globalization
Percentage of World Bank "structural adjustment" loans to poor nations that included environmental goals as required by World Bank policy, in 1994
60 percent
Percentage that included environmental goals in 1999, according to the World Bank's own figures
20 percent
Amount spent by U.S. teenagers in 1994
$63 billion
Amount spent by U.S. teenagers in 1999
over $100 billion
Ratio of the average corporate CEO's pay to the average employee?s pay in 1978
60 to 1
Ratio in 1997
189 to 1
Number of people employed by the multinational corporation General Electric in 1981
Number of people employed by GE in 1993, when the company's sales were three times their 1981 level
Plywood exports from Indonesia and Malaysia (which contribute heavily to the deforestation of tropical habitats) in 1975
0.2 million cubic meters
. . . and in 1998
12.0 million cubic meters
Sources: Structural adjustment loans: World Bank; Expenditures by teenagers: Peter Zollo, Wise Up to Teens: Insights Into Marketing and Advertising to Teenagers (New Strategist, 1999); Pay disparities: Ellen Schwartz and Suzanne Stoddard, Taking Back Our Lives in the Age of Corporate Dominance (Berrett-Koehler, 2000); GE downsizing: Jeremy Rifkin, et. al, The End of Work (Putnam, 1995); Plywood exports: Hilary French, Vanishing Borders: Protecting the Planet in the Age of Globalization (W.W. Norton, 2000).


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Jan. 2, 2005
SANTA CLARA, Calif. - The Santa Clara University women's basketball team won its third straight contest, besting Eastern Washington 79-52 to close the non-conference season this afternoon at the Leavey Center. Junior guard Michelle Cozad came off the bench to lead the Broncos with 21 points, as SCU improves to 6-7 on the season. The Broncos ended the Eagles' six-game win streak, as Eastern Washington moves to 7-4 on the year.
Cozad netted four of the team's 12 three-point field goals on the day. Freshman Chandice Cronk added four treys and finished with a career-high 16 points. Kasey Monteith added 10 points and eight rebounds, and Ashley Gonnerman added six boards and three assists.
EWU was led by Ashley Knight's 14-point performance. Jamie Chicane added 12 points and eight rebounds, and Felice Moore posted a game-high 10 rebounds.
Yasemin Kimyacioglu hit a three from the right side off the opening tip to kick-off the Broncos' afternoon. Cronk followed with a basket from the top of the key to give the home squad a quick 6-0 lead. Eastern Washington held a brief advantage, at 14-12 with 13 minutes remaining, after Joanna Chadd and Chicane hit back-to back buckets from behind the arc.
The Eagles went cold soon thereafter, going seven minutes without a point. Santa Clara scored 10 straight during that time and led 33-20 heading into the final two minutes. Julie Page hit a short jumper in the paint to end EWU's draught in the final minute of the half, but Cronk countered with a three from the right corner to give SCU a 36-23 lead at intermission.
The Broncos extended that lead in second-half action, reaching the 20-point advantage on a Monteith putback. SCU's biggest lead was the game's final margin, 27 points, reached on a lay-up by Kimyacioglu in the final 30 seconds.
Santa Clara will open the West Coast Conference season on the road, visiting Gonzaga on Thursday at 7 p.m. and Portland on Saturday at 2 p.m. The Bulldogs are 8-2 on the year, including a 3-0 mark on their home court. The Pilots are 5-8 heading into league play.


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Associate Professor
Health Ed - Nursing
Nursing, (N310)
Lola Hardy has several college degrees. She received her RN from EJ Meyer Hospital School in Buffalo, NY. Additionally, she has a BS/MS in Child Health Nursing from SUNY at Buffalo, NY.
Favorite Course to Teach
Advanced First Aid (HLTH 2007)
Personal Glimpse
As a floor nurse, I never thought that I would be a teacher. Through my experience, I found that I could explain things in a way that other people could understand. Teaching is a great way to share my experience. I continue to learn from my students, and I hope that they also learn from me.
Professional Affiliations
Member of Sigma Theta Thau, International Gamma Kappa chapter in Buffalo
Board for Professional Nurses, District 3


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Get DVD Talk Feeds
"Lost civilizations. Extraterrestrials. Myths and monsters. Missing Persons. Magic and witchcraft. Unexplained phenomenon. in Search of… cameras are travelling the world seeking out these great mysteries. This program was the result of the work of scientists, researchers, and a group of highly skilled technicians." - Host Leonard Nimoy
Often when old TV shows are released to DVD there's a strong desire on the part of those who watched it when it was new to revisit it, followed by great disappointment that the series isn't nearly as entertaining as one imagined. After satiating that strong initial curiosity, the show winds up gathering dust on the DVD shelf, never to be looked at again.
But in the case of in Search of… (1977-82), I was pleasantly surprised to find it as engrossing as I had remembered it. It holds up well, and with the benefit of hindsight it's now interesting in new ways also.
The program was spawned by the '70s craze for books, sometimes lurid and cheap documentaries, dramatic narrative films, and TV movies about the paranormal. The book and Oscar-nominated documentary based on Erich von Däniken's book, Chariot of the Gods? (1970), were enormously popular. Producer Alan Landsburg made The Outer Space Connection (1975), which further helped launch the fad and all but created a cottage industry for four-wall distributor Sunn Classics, prompting other films like In Search of Noah's Ark and The Lincoln Conspiracy. There were also dramatic adaptations like The UFO Incident (1975), a TV-movie about the alleged alien abduction of Barney and Betty Hill, and even actor-producer Jack Webb got into the act with his deliriously goofy weekly series Project U.F.O. (1978-79).
in Search of… was syndicated. In my native Detroit it aired at an odd time, late Saturday afternoons, yet it drew a large enough audience to run a very successful six years, some 144 shows in all. Watching several dozen episodes spread across its run, I was surprised at just how well I had remembered episodes I had seen only once 35-plus years ago. I was also surprised to find it very well produced for a syndicated series, back when such programs usually had tiny budgets. It literally did "travel the world" with episodes varied enough that even it in its last year it hadn't fallen into a rut. You'd have thought after tackling UFOs, Bigfoot, and the Loch Ness Monster the series would quickly run out of unexplained phenomenon, but its sixth season shows are as interesting as the first season ones. The show remains impressively eerie at times and yet isn't nearly as exploitative as I thought it would be. It speculates without drawing definitive conclusions.
The Complete Series was released in boxed set form in December 2012. These single-season sets omit the boxed version's special features, namely the two films that were de facto pilots for the show, In Search of Ancient Astronauts (the 1973 network TV adaptation of Chariot of the Gods) and the original, made-for-TV In Search of Ancient Mysteries, both narrated by Rod Serling just before his untimely death. Nor do these season sets include the 2002 revival series produced for the Sci-Fi Channel and hosted by Mitch Pileggi (The X-Files). Hopefully that three-disc set will be released on its own at a later date.
The season sets, licensed by Universal to VEI, utilize what seem to be digital copies of the original syndication masters. A disclaimer tries to fob off the blame to the "anomalies of the historical footage," but the reality is the show simply has not been remastered. While they definitely show their age, with video wrinkles and other minor imperfections here and there, they don't detract from the overall viewing experience.
I'd love to know what in Search of…'s per episode budget was. For a syndicated series it's surprisingly lavish. Most episodes visit the actual locations of the supposed phenomenon: Scotland for "The Loch Ness Monster," Romania for "Dracula," Lakehurst, New Jersey, the site of "The Hindenburg Mystery," the Nazca Plain in Peru for "Ancient Aviators." For a UFO episode the producers somehow obtained permission to actually shot inside the infamous "Hangar 18." The location filming is extremely well done for what must have been a cripplingly tight and busy shooting schedule.
For other episodes limited but acceptable recreations are staged: "Strange Visitors" and "Ghosts," for example, while shows focusing on historical events make great use of newsreel and other documentary footage. "The Hindenburg Mystery," for instance, is a great overview of the history of German dirigible development and features captivating footage from the period, but supplements it with new and invaluable interviews with surviving witnesses to that tragedy, as well as new footage of the old dirigible hangars at Lakehurst, New Jersey.
A show about "Anastasia," the woman famously claiming to be the sole survivor of Tsar Nicholas II Aleksandrovich Romanov's assassinated family, interviews the woman herself, Anna Anderson, but also includes silent Russian footage of the Tsar and his family, interviews his surviving relatives (who alternately believe or dismiss outright her claims), as well as footage from the 1956 film Anastasia with Ingrid Bergman.
The "Anastasia" show is particularly fascinating in that it's one of the few in Search of… mysteries definitively solved. DNA of remains of the assassinated Tsar, his wife and children, founds decades after …in Search of left the airwaves, was tested against a lock of Anderson's hair and other medical records that conclusively prove her a fraud. It's therefore interesting to see researchers in the show making statements along the lines of, "I've studied this case my entire adult life and can state without any doubt Anna Anderson is the Grand Duchess Anastasia!"
Watching these episodes today, for almost every show I found myself Googling the names of various so-called experts, historians, or sometimes that week's phenomenon itself, curious to see what progress, if any, has been made to solve their mystery. The "Anastasia" show is one example; in another, "Daredevils," I discovered the main daredevil artist profiled died years later, not of injuries sustained in some spectacular stunt but rather in bed of ordinary cancer.
Mostly though, I was impressed by the general restraint of the series, and found that while some of its science had dated, in Search of… was mostly a serious, sincere show that, particularly in its historical or science-based episodes, honest-and-truly has real educational value. Even on the more outlandish episodes, the series stuck to its premise, voiced at the begging of every show (not by Nimoy but rather someone who sounds like writer Earl Hamner, Jr.), that it "presents information based in part on theory and conjecture. The producer's purpose is to suggest some possible explanations, but not necessarily the only ones, to the mysteries we will examine." The narration is heavy on open-ended phrasing like, "Then if so, why?" "If not, then what could it be?" "If there is a logical explanation, then what is it?"
This more conservative approach pays off in interesting ways. Show like the Hindenburg episode and another on the disappearance of former Teamsters president Jimmy Hoffa (of particular interest to this Detroiter) lean toward explanations that, even in 2013, remain the most plausible. (Static sparks in the case of the Hindenburg, that he was murdered by gangsters and his body smashed into unrecoverable pulp in the case of Hoffa.) A show on "Killer Bees" predicts their migration into the United States would occur in 1990, which is exactly what happened.
At the same time, the show is so cleverly presented as to generate a lot of thought-provoking mystery and an eeriness that often hairs in the back of my neck pricking up. Much of that is due to the synthesizer scoring of Laurin M. Rinder and W. Michael Lewis, pioneers, it turns out, of the Disco music craze. Synthesizer scoring today is associated with cheap horror movies but then as now the team's interesting compositions complement the sometimes-spooky imagery.
Even without his association with science fiction, mainly and obviously Star Trek, Nimoy's narration, probing and interested but emotionally detached, adds to the show's effectiveness. A few years after the series had ended I attended a Star Trek convention in which Nimoy was the Guest of Honor. During the Q&A part of the program, a fan in the crowded room where the actor was speaking asked him about in Search of…, prompting a few catcalls. Nimoy himself appeared horribly embarrassed and uncomfortably laughed off the question without really answering it. I was a bit surprised by his and the audience's reaction, for his association with the series was certainly nothing to be embarrassed about.
The fifth season's episodes are:
UFO Cover-ups
Faith Healing
Lee Harvey Oswald
Daredevil Death Wish
Life After Life
Moon Madness
Dangerous Volcanoes
The Lindbergh Kidnapping
Jimmy Hoffa
Fountain of Youth
Laugh Therapy
Salem Witches
Super Children
The Great Wall of China
The Castle of Secrets
Great Lovers
The Holy Grail
The Death of Marilyn Monroe
Chinese Explorers
The Hindenburg Mystery
The End of the World
The Lusitania
Sun Worshippers
Video & Audio
VEI's full frame video transfers in Search of… look exactly like the show I remembered from the late 1970s and are probably nothing more or less than digital copies of those original transfers. A true remastering would doubtlessly be prohibitively expensive for a marginally saleable show such as this so I'm not really complaining, though I do wonder what might be possible if the original film elements still exist. (The show was probably shot in Super-16 though possibly 35mm; the murkiness of the video makes it hard to tell for sure.) The shows run 22 1/2 minutes apiece and do not appear time-compressed or edited, and some have series promos at the end, preceding the final credits. The mono audio, English only and not subtitled, is okay, and there are no Extra Features.
Parting Thoughts
Not exactly Hearts and Minds or Shoah, but still very entertaining and even addictive, in Search of… is Highly Recommended.
Stuart Galbraith IV is a Kyoto-based film historian whose work includes film history books, DVD and Blu-ray audio commentaries and special features. Visit Stuart's Cine Blogarama here.


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A previous version of this story misstated the percentage drop for the Dow Jones Industrial Average on Thursday. The story has been corrected.
NEW YORK (MarketWatch) — U.S. stocks fell on Thursday, pushing indexes to lows not seen since late summer, as worries about the global economy and U.S. "fiscal cliff" displaced enthusiasm that came with upbeat economic reports.
"There are still international events going on that influence the markets," said Paul Nolte, managing director at Dearborn Partners in Chicago, listing Greece, the European Union and China as among the issues driving investors.
The slide follows a strong selloff on Wednesday, as investors considered the political landscape after an election that had President Barack Obama re-elected and Congress still divided, with the "fiscal cliff," or more than $600 billion in tax hikes and spending cuts, scheduled for January unless lawmakers reach a deficit-reduction agreement. Read: U.S. stocks slammed on fiscal-cliff fears.
"What was surprising was not that Obama won, but that there was very little change in the composition of Congress," said Nolte, who adds the continued partisan makeup in Washington has him putting the odds at better than even that "we do go off the cliff."
But the scenario isn't necessarily a dire one, since the new Congress to be installed in January "will have an opportunity to roll those back, so Democrats can say we did raise taxes on the uber rich and Republicans will be able to say we had some cuts," said Nolte, adding investors are looking to "see movement towards a middle ground."
The Dow industrials DJIA, -0.59% fell 121.41 points, or 0.9%, to 12,811.32, its lowest close since late July.
Shares of J.P. Morgan Chase & Co. JPM, -0.40% finished 0.2% lower, erasing gains that came after it said that U.S. regulators had approved the bank repurchasing as much as $3 billion of its stock in 2013's first quarter.
Finishing at its lowest level since early August, the S&P 500 index SPX, -0.49% shed 17.02 points, or 1.2%, to 1,377.51, with consumer-discretionary shares leading sector declines among its 10 major sectors and utilities hit the least.
The Nasdaq Composite COMP, -0.80% lost 41.71 points, or 1.4%, to 2,895.58, its lowest read since late July.
• The Tell: Market news and analysis
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For every stock gaining more than two slid on the New York Stock Exchange, where nearly 759 million shares traded. Composite volume neared 3.8 billion.
Greece delayed
The indexes headed south, clearing moderate gains, after Bloomberg News reported that European Union ministers would delay a Greek aid call for weeks.
"These headlines are moving the market lower, but the German finance minister was hinting at this early this morning," emailed Peter Boockvar, an equity strategist at Miller Tabak, after Bloomberg cited a European Union official as saying a decision on releasing funds for Greece might not come until late this month.
Bloomberg cited a European Union official, speaking on condition of anonymity, as saying EU finance heads would not move to unleash another round of funds for Greece when they meet on Monday.
The report comes after Greek Prime Minister Antonis Samaras managed to find parliamentary support for austerity moves required to obtain rescue funds in a vote viewed as weakening his majority.
The European Central Bank on Thursday held interest rates steady and ECB President Mario Draghi said the economic forecast had worsened with the central bank still ready to start its bond-buying plan if governments meet the required conditions. Read: ECB's Draghi keeps pressure on politicians.
Stocks had been modestly higher, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average bouncing back after its largest drop this year, as jobless claims declined last week and the U.S. trade deficit narrowed in September. Read: Weekly jobless claims drop by 8,000.
"The trend continues to be good. It's still supportive of a better jobs market and supportive of some of the numbers we've seen in the monthly jobs report," said Nolte after the Labor Department reported applications for jobless benefits fell by 8,000 to 355,000 in the week ending Nov. 3.
Last week, the Labor Department reported employers added 171,000 positions in October, with the unemployment rate at 7.9%.


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kingman wrote:...Yes it is! Sometimes a soft "push" is needed to make things happen. I vote for the Shut the fuck up roadshow name.Isn't it great we can all laugh about this kind of stuff. Doug, again no worries. We are all friends.
While I agree Frankie's quote is appropiate, Kingman, you are on the "naughty list" and have no vote.
Chris, you are third on the list after Harry and George. PM me your address. Each participate will be responsible to mail to the next person. Roadshow will end when my 75 comes back.


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Inspired by Maple Leaf Farm from designer Bobbie Ashley
Quilt tester: Laura Boehnke
7⁄8 yards green stripe (quilt center)
7⁄8 yards multicolor snowflake print (quilt center)
3⁄4 yards cream print (quilt center)
1-1⁄8 yards dark blue print (quilt center, border corners, binding)
1⁄4 yard light blue print (quilt center)
1-1⁄8 yards multicolor stripe (quilt center, border)
3⁄4 yards tree print (quilt center)
3-3⁄4 yards backing fabric
67" square batting
Finished quilt: 59" square
Finished basket block: 8-1⁄4" square
Quantities are for 44/45"-wide, 100% cotton fabrics.
Measurements include 1/4" seam allowances. Sew with right sides together unless otherwise stated.


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August 16, 2010, 11:06 am
Office buildings support jobs
The commercial real estate industry supports more than 11,000 jobs in Colorado, according to the Building Owners and Managers Association International.
Building owners spent $810 million statewide to operate private, non-owner-occupied office buildings larger than 10,000 square feet, according to the report.
Last year, the office building industry contributed $118.4 billion to the economy and supported a total of 1 million jobs nationwide.
Next Post »
« Previous Post


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Petrol pump sales decrease over five years, says AA
Forecourt sales of petrol have plunged by more than 20% in five years, the AA has said.
The motoring organisation said official government figures showed 17 billion litres were sold last year compared to 22 billion in 2007.
The AA said rising prices and greater use of smaller and diesel vehicles had contributed to the fall in consumption.
Combined with an increase in the sale of diesel, total vehicle fuel sales fell by 9% over the past five years.
The AA said the decrease was the equivalent of 35 days of business being lost since the start of the economic crisis.
Diesel sales increased from 14 billion litres in 2007 to 16 billion litres in 2012.
More recently, petrol sales decreased from 18.27 billion litres in 2011 to 17.42 billion litres last year.
'Huge toll'
Petrol Retailers Association chairman Brian Madderson said: "It's amazing to think that just four years ago, in spring 2009, petrol was £1 a litre. For £20 you could get 20 litres. Today when you spend £20 at the forecourt you get less than 15 litres.
"In 2000, 10% of new cars were diesel. Last year, over 50% of new cars were diesel and with that kind of change, and motorists cutting back on discretionary spending we do see right across the UK petrol sales in steep decline."
AA president Edmund King said: "Greater take-up of diesel cars and smaller petrol vehicles has contributed to this overall decline in UK fuel sales over the long term.
"However, soaring pump prices have taken a huge toll on petrol sales more recently - during the 10p-a-litre price surges last March and October, pump sales of petrol fell by up to 5%."
"The trouble is that, with global economic recovery, the stock market will predict greater oil and fuel demand and push up commodity values accordingly.
He added: "Drivers' fuel consumption and retail survivability are already precarious. What will happen when the speculators pump themselves up with bullish sentiment and send prices soaring yet again?"
The AA highlighted figures produced by the Department of Energy and Climate Change.


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Ceilings are not high, below. A transom was over the door. I removed it and added a taller door & sidelights. Creating more height,
I chose 2 panels + the upward curve. Love the doorknocker Miss Florida found. We did a lot of back/forth online with knockers & paint color & hardware.
Urns fabulous enough to be empty were designed & plinths for height adjustment. Ironically, Miss Florida, who always says, I don't know anything, has consistently put in seasonal arrangements from prunings in her garden.
I also took away the foundation plantings, aka green meatballs, and used espaliered fruit trees + groundcovers.
The white is too white on the house. Alas, it had just been painted before I was hired.
Garden & Be Well, XO Tara
Pics taken at jobsite last week. We are doing a new layer! The drive, front woodland & upper arrival drive. Cannot wait for the groundcovers to fill in, brown dead mulch, anywhere, has touched my last nerve.


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There's a Moral in Here Somewhere...
Attempt #1:
"This is hideous. And why is there a giant blank space?"
"That's where you put a 'Happy Birthday' candle!"
"So it'll read, 'Happy Birthday 1st Theodore?!'"
"Is that a problem?"
Attempt #2:
"Ok, the inscription is fixed, but where'd all the decorations go?"
Attempt #3:
(AKA when the manager-who-used-to-be-a-baker steps in to "fix" everything.)
"THANK YOU. Was that really so har...wait a second.
Thanks to Sam and her dad for documenting what must have been the most frustrating bakery pick-up EVER. (And for the record, they just brought the last one home. Because the third time's the charm - or when you remember little Theodore can't read yet anyway.


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Why do I need my gutters Cleaned?
Properly maintained & cleaned gutters can save thousands of dollars in repair and prolong the life and value of your home by preventing water damage, rotten/wet roof fascia boards and standing water by your foundation, which could seep into your basement/foundation.
How often should I clean my gutters in the Marysville area?
Twice a year; Spring and fall are the best times!
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Neat and Courteous Professionals. On time arrival, full uniforms and shoe covers. Proof of insurance upon request and references. All employees have gone through extensive background checks. Clearly the right choice you can trust for your home and property.
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Closing in on a budget deal
With the last major issues resolved, House-Senate negotiators worked toward filing a $1.1 trillion government-wide spending bill by Monday night in hopes of quick action by Congress this week.
In the final bargaining, Treasury failed to get the money it sought to meet U.S. pledges to the International Monetary Fund. But compromises on President Barack Obama's healthcare program were holding up together with financing for Wall Street regulators like the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Story Continued Below
Having been burned so often in the past, the Appropriations Committees were reluctant to comment publicly. But leadership aides said the bill's framework was in place after a long weekend of talks, including face-to-face meetings between House Chairman Hal Rogers (R-Ky.) and his Senate counterpart, Sen. Barbara Mikulski (D-Md.).
( Earlier on POLITICO: IMF at center of budget debate)
The timetable remains tight. The current stopgap continuing resolution, which has kept agencies operating thus far, is due to expire Wednesday. To avert any threat of a shutdown, a three-day extension through Saturday will be taken up by the House on Tuesday. And once the omnibus is filed Monday, Rogers and Mikulski believe that leaves sufficient time to complete floor debate on the giant package.
Hundreds of pages long, the bill literally touches every corner of the government as it fills in the blanks left by the budget agreement reached in December. That pact set the limits on spending; the omnibus now spells out where the dollars go.
After years of turmoil, it represents a massive, technical reset of appropriations from $600 million for TIGER grants in the Transportation Department to billions within weapons programs at Defense.
More broadly, the bill defines a new budget plateau — some say realism — for the remainder of Obama's presidency.
( WATCH: The Sunday shows in 90 seconds)
Non-emergency appropriations are capped at $1.012 trillion as prescribed in December. These dollars are paired with about $91.7 billion in overseas contingency funds — chiefly for military operations in Afghanistan but also to help address the soaring number of refugees fleeing Syria's civil war.
Crises in central Africa will have a claim as well. But the Syria situation is the prime driver and within the State Department's budget, the migration and refugee assistance account will grow to just over $3 billion, about 40 percent of which is financed through these contingency funds.
The so-called OCO funding meets the target set in the House Republican budget resolution last spring. But the total is about $7.2 billion higher than Obama's 2014 request, and it shows the extra latitude House Republicans will allow to help the Pentagon adjust to the downward spiral now in its base funding.
No final numbers have been released but the Pentagon's base budget is expected to drop to about $488 billion — $24 billion below what the House approved last July and about $20 billion above what was threatened by another round of sequestration this month.
When the OCO funding is counted, the total comes to about $570.5 billion. But that is still about $35 billion below the Pentagon funding level approved for 2013, before the first round of automatic cuts last March.
In line with December's agreement, nondefense spending would be restored to $491.8 billion or roughly what it was last spring, prior to sequestration. But there is nothing akin to the military's OCO reserve to deal with new domestic costs like Western wildfires or the flood of unaccompanied children who are crossing the U.S. border to escape turmoil in Latin America.
Indeed, December's pact carried with it several codicils which effectively take away some of the flexibility the Appropriations leadership has had in the past. These are worth close to $2 billion altogether and complicate what are already tough choices.
To make room for firefighting funds in the Interior Department and Forest Service means no money is left to absorb the costs of the PILT program [payments in lieu of taxes], which helps small Western towns meet their local budgets when surrounded by federal lands. Spending to help house the children coming over the border competes with even bipartisan favorites like the National Institutes of Health — which is expected to end up still shy of what Congress had appropriated last spring before sequestration.


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Lynch & Cook: US Policy on Egypt Needs a Big Shift
U.S. Policy on Egypt Needs a Big Shift - NYTimes.com:
The Obama administration's response should begin with a clear, public presidential statement specifying what transferring power to a civilian government means. This would not involve micromanaging Egyptian politics in a manner that risks a nationalist backlash in Egypt, but Washington should put the Egyptian military, which receives $1.3 billion annually from the United States, on notice that the officer's efforts to carve out a post-transition political role for themselves is unacceptable.
In addition, Washington should now throw its weight behind early presidential elections, a demand shared by virtually all Egyptian political forces and recently agreed to under S.C.A.F. pressure. It should also insist on a rapid response to the long-standing demand to end the military trials for civilians and the application of emergency law, which makes those trials and other means of repression possible. It should speak out against recent moves to censor the media and to incite citizens against protesters and foreign journalists. And, crucially, the administration should demand real accountability for those responsible for violence against civilians.
In other words, Obama administration needs to have stronger response to events of Tahrir and be clearer on its policy. I wonder how that's going to be welcomed in the US though on the day Islamists appear to have won a majority in the parliamentary elections. As I see it, these are the elements that go into shaping US policy towards Egypt, and only the first may have the same priorities in mind:
- Obama himself, the White House and the NSC who think about the president's vision and legacy, as well as the way these play in American domestic politics;
- The State Department, which is probably mostly focused on bilateral mechanics and regional diplomacy;
- The Pentagon and Central Command in particular, who care about maintaining the strategic status-quo;
- Congress, which will be motivated by the Israel lobby, the defense lobby, the Christian lobby, and a few members longstanding interest in Egypt.


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7 Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise
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• Pre Paid Gratuities
Plus, 50% Reduced Cruise Fare for (3rd/4th/5th) guests in triple, quad, family staterooms
Cruise must be booked 09/05/2019- Oct 04, 2019. (the "Offer Period"). Offer applies to select 4-night and longer sailings departing 11/01/19-05/03/21. Offer excludes Galapagos cruises. Full deposit must be paid by deposit payment required due date. Standard full deposit penalty is applied if booking is cancelled within final payment period; see Celebrity's cancellation policy for details.Non-Refundable Deposit Offer: To qualify for the lowest available cruise fare, guest must choose a non-refundable deposit. Non-refundable deposit booking ("NRDB") cancelled prior to final payment due date will receive a future cruise credit in the amount of the deposit minus a $100 per person service fee. FCC is non-transferable and expires after 12-months from issue date. $100 per person service fee applies to changes to NRDB ship or sail date. Applicable to groups at prevailing rates. Not applicable to incentive, contract, or charter groups. Nonrefundable deposit offers are not applicable to sailings within final payment. Cruise Fare Savings: Savings amounts are per stateroom and vary by stateroom category: $400 for inside, ocean view, veranda, Concierge Class, and AquaClass staterooms, $500 for Suites. 2019 Holiday Sailings are eligible for double savings amounts: $800 for inside, ocean view, veranda, Concierge Class, and AquaClass staterooms, $1000 for Suites. Offer applies to first two guests in the stateroom and will be applied automatically. 50% Off Savings: Savings applies to the cruise fare of the third and fourth passengers booked in any stateroom category type. Not applicable to Cruisetours. Perks Included Offers: Each of the first two guests in a qualifying inside, ocean view, veranda, Concierge Class, or AquaClass stateroom are eligible to receive two amenities with the choice of a "Two Perks Included" rate: Classic Beverage Package, Unlimited Internet Package, $150 per person onboard credit ("OBC"), or Prepaid Gratuities. For an additional charge, guests may receive four amenities with an upgrade to the Premium Beverage package by selecting the "Four Perks Included" rate. Rate varies by length of voyage and stateroom category. All guests in the same stateroom must select the same options and provide Celebrity with the selected options at the time of booking. Promo codes are not required. Each of the first two guests in a qualifying suite booking are eligible to receive four complimentary amenities: Premium Beverage Package, Unlimited Internet Package, $150 per person onboard credit ("OBC"), and Prepaid Gratuities. Guests with Internet Packages will receive instructions for Internet access in their staterooms on the first day of the cruise. OBC option: Guests' onboard account will be credited with an OBC. OBC has no cash value, is applicable to cruise only, non-transferable, not redeemable for cash, and will expire if not used by 10:00 PM on the final night of the cruise. Prepaid Gratuities option provides for prepaid stateroom, waiter, assistant waiter, and headwaiter gratuities in the amount suggested by Celebrity's guidelines. Gratuities will be applied to the reservation within 10 days of booking date. Offer applies to new individual bookings and to staterooms in non-contracted group bookings, which must be named and deposited during the Offer Period. Offer is capacity controlled, availability varies by sailing, and eligible staterooms may sell out. All offers are non-transferable and applicable only to the Offer Cruise. Offer is not combinable with Book Now Bonus, Sail Now Savings, Exciting Deals, Interline, Senior, Loyalty, Resident, Net, Travel Partner or Employee Rates. No refunds or credits will be granted for unused options. Offer and prices are subject to availability and change without notice, capacity controlled, and not applicable to charters or contracted groups. Single occupancy bookings are eligible for the Offer. Changes to booking may result in removal of Offer. Travel Agents: Group bookings that are named prior to the start date of the Offer cannot be cancelled and rebooked under this Offer. Group FIT can be transfer into Group shell once named and deposited. Refer to celebritycruises.com and the Cruise Ticket Contract for additional terms and conditions. Celebrity reserves the right to cancel the Offer at any time, correct any errors, inaccuracies or omissions, and change or update fares, fees and surcharges at any time without prior notice.
|Jan 18, 2020
|Fort Lauderdale - Florida
|3:30 p.m.
|Jan 19, 2020
|At Sea
|Jan 20, 2020
|San Juan - Puerto Rico
|3:30 p.m.
|11:00 p.m.
|Jan 21, 2020
|Charlotte Amalie - St. Thomas
|8:00 a.m.
|5:00 p.m.
|Jan 22, 2020
|Samana - Dominican Republic
|8:00 a.m.
|5:00 p.m.
|Jan 23, 2020
|At Sea
|Jan 24, 2020
|Nassau - Bahamas
|9:00 a.m.
|6:00 p.m.
|Jan 25, 2020
|Fort Lauderdale - Florida
|7:00 a.m.


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Early Figurative Acrylic on canvas
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sharonharrison on :
This looks like her music to me. Layers of detail and images and Cubist in flavor, and then beyond.


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Government Forces Free Press Advocacy Group To File Its Amicus Brief In NSL Case Under Seal
from the now-they're-OUR-secrets dept
Throw the words "national security" around frequently enough and you might start to believe it actually means something. The EFF's battle against the government's use of National Security Letters (NSLs) is being fought mostly under seal (the EFF can't even reveal whom its clients are). To be sure, there is sensitive material being discussed, but the government's paranoia has extended so far as to seal documents written by entities with no access to classified or sensitive material. (h/t to Trevor Timm)
The Reporters Committee for the Freedom of the Press (RCFP) recently filed an amicus brief in this case on the EFF's behalf, arguing that the non-disclosure demands of NSLs are a form of prior restraint, something that is clearly unconstitutional. It also notes the chilling effect this has had on journalism.
The information at issue is not just important for its own sake, but because, as recent reports have shown, fear of government surveillance has deterred confidential sources from speaking to journalists about a wide range of topics. The brief emphasizes that more knowledge about the NSL program can give sources and reporters confidence that their communications are confidential.The government's desire for secrecy extends even further than the NSLs' gag orders. This secrecy has now spilled over into what would normally be the public's domain.
The Electronic Frontier Foundation's challenge involves three cases, all of which are under seal. The Reporters Committee was required to file its briefs under seal, but submitted a motion to the Ninth Circuit asking it to unseal its brief.Whatever the government's stated reasons for requiring the brief to be filed under seal, it's clearly wrong.
"The Court cannot constitutionally seal this brief," the Reporters Committee wrote in the motion. "Amici have had no access to confidential materials in the case; the brief only includes information that is already public; and there are clear public policy reasons for requiring that the materials be open."The government doesn't know when to quit. It's sealed brief requirement makes about as much sense as government agencies' initial reactions to the first few leaked NSA documents -- instructing their employees to not look at publicly-available information because the documents were supposedly still "classified." As if that designation made any sense under the circumstances.
This is the same sort of reasoning: NSLs are super-secret and therefore, anything related to these should be withheld from the public, even if the brief contains nothing more than publicly-available information.
Filed Under: amicus, classified, doj, nsls, secrecy
Companies: eff, rcfp


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The laptop seems to work at first sight. But if you look closer you will notice small but annoying difference between display sharpness on win7 and ubuntu (10.4, 11.04, 11.10). Display is flickering on ubuntu, especially on dark background with backlight at 40-80% (i checked on Knopix 6.7.3, Fedora 15 too). On Win7 you can sees pecific grid on screen, on linux distros.. it looks like old 50hz CRT monitor
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If Barb Takacs and Rick Tressler were nervous before they took their wedding vows, you wouldn�t know it.
�We wanted this to be real laid-back,� said Takacs as she and the groom waited at the Wickwood Inn in downtown Saugatuck on Saturday. As a cancer survivor, she said she didn�t want any more stress in her life.
Takacs, 61, and Tressler, 69, kept their nuptials low-key by turning to the Saugatuck mayor for a municipal wedding, an alternative to the traditional minister-led or courthouse-based ceremonies.
The trend is catching on, with blogs such as savvysugar.com listing nine tips for planning a city hall wedding, apracticalwedding.com focusing on high-profile city halls and hints from Glamour magazine for a municipal affair.
Mayors in Michigan got the authority to perform marriages in 1972, according to the Michigan Municipal League. A mayor can preside over the ceremony anywhere in the county in which the city is located, not just within city borders.
A mayor doesn�t have to do the ceremony if he or she doesn�t want to.
�Some mayors thoroughly enjoy the responsibility and contribute extra personal time and effort. ... Others choose not to perform the ceremony at all,� the Michigan Municipal League wrote in its �The Civil Marriage Ceremony Handbook for Mayors.�
For Bill Hess, mayor of Saugatuck, there was no hesitation in agreeing to oversee a wedding ceremony.
He performed three marriages in 2013 and has already performed several this year, with more on the horizon for August.
Weddings cost $50 and the money goes into the city�s general fund, earmarked for holiday lighting costs. He has led weddings at city hall, along the river, at homes and bed and breakfasts.
In Douglas, Mayor Jim Wiley has performed only one wedding ceremony since he was elected to the position in 2011.
He received a call at home at 8:30 in the morning from a bride who wanted to be married that day.
�We traded a few phone calls back and forth and set the time for 11 a.m. that morning,� he said. �I arrived at city hall. The bride and groom were there, along with the parents of one of them, as well as four of their six young children. It was a second marriage for both.�
Douglas and Holland also charge $50 for the ceremony.
Holland�s Mayor Kurt Dykstra has performed two weddings so far this year with two more scheduled. In 2013, he performed one; in 2012, he facilitated three and performed two in 2011. Most are at city hall, though some have been at other locations.
Holland has a few sample ceremonies to send to the couple. The bride and groom can come up with their own as well.
Ottawa County District Court charges $10 for a wedding. In 2013, magistrates in Ottawa County�s Grand Haven, Holland and Hudsonville courts performed 425 marriages, down from 604 in 2012. The number has been increasing in the past five years with 290 performed in 2009, 314 in 2010 and 383 in 2011, according to court records.
Allegan County District Court performed 130 weddings in 2013, down slightly from 133 in 2012 and 151 in 2011, annual reports show. Weddings cost $10.
�I think that the ability for a mayor to perform marriage ceremonies is an enormous honor. I would be pleased to do many more. ... So bring �em on,� Wiley said.
�I find it interesting why couples choose Saugatuck for their wedding,� Hess said. �Some are from the area, others have met here or had their first date here. I've married couples from Wisconsin, Indiana and the east side of Michigan. I think the main reason they chose to marry here is because Saugatuck is a unique, special place and very romantic.�
Takacs and Tressler, both of Grosse Ile, chose the town for unique reasons as well.
�We are lifetime boaters and wanted a beach-type town that was different from our normal boating destinations,� said Tressler before the ceremony. After the ceremony, he donned his Sea Ray baseball cap to sign the marriage papers.
�Barb visited Saugatuck many years ago,� he said, and thought it might be what they were looking for so they took a road trip to check it out.
�It�s a very nice, artsy town,� he said inside the Wickwood Inn on Butler Street before the couple walked out to the gazebo in the back of the bed and breakfast. The wedding party was small � the two witnesses were children from each other�s previous marriage, the bride�s daughter�s boyfriend and a photographer.
Takacs, a widow for two years, and Tressler, a widower for 11 years, met on a boating trip three years ago.
The couple chose Hess for the wedding because they were not familiar with the churches in town and wanted that �laid-back ceremony,� they agreed.
�We don�t get bridezillas here,� Hess joked as he prepared to fill out the paperwork for the marriage license � the couple still needs to get that bit of paperwork themselves.
�And I�m not bridezilla,� said Takacs, now Mrs. Tressler, as champagne glasses were passed around on the patio.
� Follow Jim Hayden on Twitter@SentinelJim.
Mayors welcome chance to lead wedding ceremonies
If Barb Takacs and Rick Tressler were nervous before they took their wedding vows, you wouldn�t know it.


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Target's Problem: Tar-zhay Isn't Working
Data Breach Was Just One of Many Problems That Felled CEO
A Christmas-season cyberattack on Target Corp.'s computer systems did more than expose massive amounts of customer credit-card data to potential fraud. It also turned up the heat on deeper troubles that simmered under the six-year tenure of Chief Executive Gregg Steinhafel, who stepped down on Monday.
Among the missteps: An expansion into Canada that verges on disaster and an e-commerce strategy that hasn't gained momentum. But perhaps most of all, the cheap-chic "Tar-zhay" formula isn't bringing in customers the...


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This indeed was a romance but I felt like it was much more. There was heartache and forgiveness, something I admired and loved this book. It's well written and shows great courage in the characters!! I would defiantly recommend this book!
Katie Capperton
I expected this book to be a typical regency romance, but it was much more than that. Yes, there was romance, but it was more importantly a lesson in honesty, guilt, consequences, and forgiveness, including forgiving yourself. This is my favorite Josi Kilpack book! Great for all ages, but I want all my young friends to read it!
Absolutely loved this book. Beautifully written and completely engrossing. The audio recording was wonderful too.
Cassie, the youngest of six daughters in the Wilton family, is bold, bright, and ready to enter society. There's only one problem: her older sister Lenora, whose extreme shyness prevents her from attending many social events. Lenora is now entering her third season, and since their father has decreed that only one Wilton girl can be out at a time, Cassie has no choice except to wait her turn.
Evan Glenside, a soft-spoken, East London clerk, has just been named his great-uncle's heir and, though he is eager to learn all that will be required of him, he struggles to feel accepted in a new town and in his new position.
A chance meeting between Evan and Lenora promises to change everything, but when Lenora proves too shy to pursue the relationship, Cassie begins to write Mr. Glenside letters in the name of her sister. Her good intentions lead to disaster when Cassie realizes she is falling in love with Evan. But then Evan begins to court Lenora, thinking she is the author of the letters.
As secrets are revealed, the hearts of Cassie, Evan, and Lenora are tested. Will the final letter sent by the vicar's daughter be able to reunite the sisters as well as unite Evan with his true love?
This is the second Regency I've read by Kilpack. It started out with another main character who was a bit selfish and self-centered but Cassie does have a good heart. When the letter writing began, I thought it was going to be Cyrano de Bergerac kind of comedy. Nope. Kilpack doesn't seem to go into light-hearted.
Things went bad once Cassie started falling in love with the man in the letters. It was hard to read the series of events that followed and was a little startling after my comedy expectations. But as I said, Cassie has a good heart, and she accepted responsibility for her actions and had the courage to face adversity to limit the impact her actions would have had on others.
Her parents bugged me, her mother especially. She might have been married to a clergyman, but she wasn't very Christian in her attitude about a lot of things. But she had some things right, so there was that saving grace.
The resolution is sweet and well worth the rough journey to get there.
4 1/2 stars
I love sweet Regency romances and I have enjoyed all the Josi Kilpack books I have read, but this is my favorite so far! I loved this book. The situation was unique and exactly one I'd always hoped a Regency would address; I've often heard how horrible this particular situation would be, but I'd never actually read one that I can think of. (Sorry for the vagueness of my statement. I am trying to review without spoiling it!)
In addition, Kilpack's writing, and this book specifically, has all the feels. I truly felt despair for the characters but that made the other parts that much sweeter and fulfilling—and one of my all-time favorite proposals ever. While I've never experienced social anxiety, I felt for the character who was hobbled by it, and felt the resolution was logical, believable, and hopeful.
It is perfect for anyone who wants a sweet historical romance--young or old--and one book I will read again!
I LOVED this book! I loved the character of Cassie--her vibrant personality that got her into so much trouble when she was only trying to help her very shy sister Lenora to find a husband in Evan. The twist right at the beginning of the story is that Cassie starts to fall in love with Evan. I love Evan's character as well and it was fun to read from his perspective as he tried to figure out the stark differences between "Lenora's letters" and her real temperament in person.
I read this book quickly because I couldn't wait to get to the happy ending. I really enjoyed the setting of this book in the countryside away from London. It's still Regency England but the courtship process was slightly more relaxed. I also enjoyed the family that Kilpack created with Cassie having five sisters and Evan having two sisters as well. I hope there are more stories to be told from this little village! I think this is one of my favorite from the proper romance line. If you decide to read it, beware, you might fall in love with the characters too!
I received a review copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
4.5 stars
There are times when you finish a book and sigh in contentment. This is one of those books for me. The story is wonderful and the characters are people that I would like to know.
The book is about a vicar's daughter (Cassie) who is desperate for her sister to marry, so she can be courted and find a husband of her own. She takes drastic measures that backfire when she falls in love the the man she intends for her sister.
That is the basic premise of the story, but it has more. Cassie is a lovely character, her selfishness has repercussions she did not think about. She spends a lot of time reflecting on her character flaws and trying to make restitution. I loved how she saw the needs of the people around her and did her best to help them. She had fantastic growth that really made the story inspirational.
As usual, Josi Kilpack has written another wonderful book. I know that when she writes, I read.
The book has some kissing and Christian themes.
Source: I received a complimentary copy from Shadow Mountain Publishing. All thought and opinions of the book are my own.
I love Proper Romances and this is one of my favorites! As I read the book and was getting to the end I still kept thinking, how is this all going to work out? Kilpack kept me intrigued and guessing the whole time. Sisters in love with the same man is a tricky situation and you can't help but feel for the sister who doesn't get to be with the man she loves. And I think Kilpack leaves the story open for an additional book about the other sister. Yes???
Josi Kilpack has written another winning historical romance. I've really come to love this A Proper Romance series by Shadow Mountain. There hasn't been one that I haven't absolutely adored. Kilpack's books though have a unique feeling of depth to them as her characters make mistakes, then have to deal with the consequences. There are even times when I don't like the characters, or at least want to jump into the book and tell them not to do certain things.
Cassie longs to be out in society but because of her parents rules, she must wait until her sister, Lenora, finds a husband. The problem is that Lenora is so painfully shy that she avoids social events whenever possible. After hearing about an encounter between Lenora and Evan Glenside at the latest ball, Cassie decides that this may be her chance to help her sister find a match. What she doesn't expect however is to fall for Evan herself. And like most such deceptions, the truth comes out eventually, but not until things have moved far enough along between Evan and Lenora that a scandal results. And now Cassie, Lenora, and Evan, as well as their families must live with the consequences.
I really enjoyed getting to know Cassie and Evan, the letters were especially fun. But it's especially touching to watch Cassie as she grows up and starts to think more about others. And poor Evan, what a sweet man, who is having to not only adjust to a rise in social status, but now he must face a damaged reputation. Thankfully, Cassie works hard to try to undo as much of the damage as she can. Not only has Kilpack written a beautiful romance, but also a touching story of repentance and forgiveness and the need we all have to change and improve. This book is definitely going on my favorites shelf.
The Proper Romance collection from Shadow Mountain has another winner with The Vicar's Daughter by Josi S. Kilpack. One thing that I love about these books is that in addition to being clean, they are all so different. Don't get me wrong, I'm up for reading most clean romance novels, but it's nice to have the variations in locations, social status, and characters.
I wondered how long Cassie would keep up the letter lie, but was glad it didn't go on for more than half the book. Then I wondered what would happen for the rest of the book. It was a sweet story with a happy ending. I'm glad Cassie grew up through her experience. She did so as penance in a lot of ways, but it made her a better person.
I liked Evan and his family. What an awkward situation to switch classes and not know what is expected and have so many people judging you. It was interesting especially with Evan to think someone was his friend and then he still spoke unkindly behind Evan's back.
I liked how everything turned out in the end. This is a quick, clean read that I'd recommend.
Happiness is reading books by Josi Kilpack. She has refined her craft and become such a fabulous writer. This book felt more like a journey than a story. Her characters, flawed yet so endearing, settled right into my mind and my heart.
This story weaves several characters together- Cassie, Evan and Lenora. Each play a vital role in the story. Cassie has become impatient waiting for her older sister Lenora to make a match and decides to take matters into her own hands. What starts as a little charade turns into a mess of epic proportions. Cassie is left to pick up the pieces and set things back to right for not just her family but Evan and his family as well. I loved Cassie's desire to make things right. She owns up to her faults and tries desperately to make restitution. You can't help but admire that. I absolutely adored Evan. He is a genuinely good person and that is portrayed all through this book. Evan is a constant- and anchor of sorts for this book. Loved him.
There is a gentle flow to this book. It isn't fast paced or surprising but kept me engaged all the way through. I was really pulling for Cassie, hoping that she would find her own happy in the end. I wasn't disappointed. The ending was worth the struggle to get there.
Content: Clean
- I received a copy of this book from the publisher. A positive review was not required and all opinions expressed are my own.
Oh my goodness! I loved everything about this book. I loved Cassie! I loved the way she is at the beginning, she's spirited and just knows that waiting for Lenora to get married is ruining her life. But I also really loved the way she grows through out the book. The Cassie at the beginning is not the same girl by the end of the book. She has grown more humble, willing to look outward and find those in need of her help, and loving to all around her. I loved the way she's so impetuous and doesn't think of what could go wrong if anyone finds out that she's the one writing the letters. Not to even mention, what would happen if her parents found out that either she or Lenora are receiving letters from a gentleman. I loved the way both Evan and Cassie begin to fall for each other over the course of their correspondence, so cute!
Evan...I loved the way he is a true gentleman. He doesn't really know enough about what gentlemen do to know that he shouldn't be corresponding with either sister. When he finds out, he does what he feels is the honorable thing for his actions. There are several points in the book where he has to do something that will be exceedingly hard, but he knows that the hard thing is the right and proper thing to do, so he does it anyway. He's not perfect, but he is a great character that I loved.
I really loved the whole plot line of this one. I loved the feel of it, it's a regency romance, but it feels less stuffy than a lot of them do, giving it almost a more modern feel.
And the plot is just amazing! I loved the way it seemed as though there was no hope that Cassie could ever find happiness and...well, I don't want to give anything away, you'd better go read it yourself!
This is probably my favorite book I've read this year, but that could change very quickly! I'm sure it will be a contender for next year's Whitney Awards. Such a great book! Go get your own copy!
What do you do when you're so caught up in a story that you don't want to put it down for anything? You read all day, of course!
Cassie is the youngest daughter of a vicar and isn't allowed to "come out" to society until her older, extremely anxiety-ridden and shy, sister is married off. Cassie has the very best intentions at heart when she secretly writes letters to a potential beau, posing as her sister, but it all backfires in a heart wrenching way.
When my husband and I were first dating, I remember being in the computer lab at school and I was instant messaging him. I had to leave for a minute and my friend took over, pretending to be me. Understandably, he wasn't too happy about that and I could completely see how Evan felt about his whole situation with these two sisters, although his was carried much further.
I was very caught up in the whole story and felt a part of it from the start. The emotions are very tangibly written--from the attraction, to the flutters of love, to the pain and anguish associated with guilt. If I was caught in a similar situation, I'd want to run and hide, but Cassie does everything she can to repair things and I can't help but to admire her greatly. This book has a very engaging storyline, as well as fantastic characters, and I loved it all!
Content: mild romance; mild moments of innocent deception.
A fun telling of a girl who just wants love and desires to help her sister gain it before she can. But, as all things go, it doesn't go as planned and becomes a thing that must be corrected. Cassie tries so hard. I adore how this all plays out. Definitely a MUST-READ!
I love me some Proper Romance Books. I love them. I haven't read one yet that hasn't been wonderful. Kilpack does it again with another great novel.
Historical romances are probably one of my favorite genre's. This story is so sweet, and so frustrating all at the same time. Which makes it a wonderful read. I couldn't put this book down.
Cassie is dying to be out in society, but she has to wait for her older sister to find a match. Lenora, is quiet, scared, and not good in social situations. Cassie on the other hand is out going, connects well with people, and is ready to be out and available to date. Tradition is tradition though, and Cassie's parents are all about tradition.
A new man is in town though, and he is new to the whole high society thing. He has become heir to his Great-Uncles fortune because he is the only surviving heir to take over. While he is trying to become acquainted with the high life he takes a breather at one of the balls.
While taking his break he hears someone else come up, and hears her crying so Evan tries not to intrude, but wants to offer a neckerchief to her. When doing so he meets Lenora. It's a just a quick meet but enough to peak an interest.
Cassie, sees an opportunity, and takes it. If she can get Lenora married she can finally come out in society and start a family of her own.
What Cassie does, is out of love for her sister, even if it is a bit deceitful. This is when the story gets really interesting.
There is a love story, along with some impropriety and deceit. It makes for an interesting story. It's the first time this little town has really seen any kind of scandal.
If you like historical romances you will enjoy this book. I hope you take a chance to read it.
Source: I was given this book as part of a tour. I was not compensated in any way for this review. These are my own PERSONAL thoughts on the book.
Content: Clean and wonderful
My favorite proper romance from Josi. I loved Cassie's character, and her thought process. Though the story doesn't have a ton of depth, it has just enough to keep you captivated and rooting for a happy ending.
This was an intriguing love story full of character development. In the beginning I felt like Cassie was pretty self-centered and I wasn't really sure she deserved Evan (whom I thought was such a good person and I felt so bad that almost all of the fall out came down on him). But at the same time, I would probably have felt much the same as she did in her circumstances. And she really grew and developed as the story went on. I also like that the story didn't shy away from the consequences and results of her deception. Everyone really suffered for a while. As it was getting closer to the end I was wondering how it was going to all come together in time and in some ways the ending did seem a little sudden or with a little too much of a prefect bow on the top, but I was still happy.
The Vicar's Daughter is a fresh new approach to a heavily saturated market of stories. Often you will come across a story you love, amazing characters, lots of chemistry etc, but yet the plot will be blatantly overused. This was great! In contrast to Jane Austen's 'Pride & Prejudice' - all the daughters being out at once - the Wilton family of 5 daughters must each wait their turn. All well and good, if they are equally sufficient in catching the eyes of suitors. But what happens when one of them has had 3 seasons, and suffers with what today we would classify as Social Anxiety Disorder? It is such a crippling struggle, that I can imagine in this kind of society in which you are limited to making a match through how you performed publicly, finding personal happiness must have been nigh impossible. Unless you have this yourself or know someone close to you that does, it can be very difficult to truly understand it. Your heart will break with the same desires as those around you, yet trapped by lack of ability to behave as carefree as those who don't. People call it shyness or nerves. It is not. They want to love and have happiness and fun just the same way you do.
I am drawn to the plight of Leonora Wilton. Equally empathetic to the frustration of youngest daughter Cassandra (Cassie). Will she ever get her turn? Leonora cannot converse, or attract the attention in order to dance at the social events she is in attendance of. Cassie is now 20, and as most girls were 18 at their debut, she is starting to worry. I must admit I thought considering the circumstances the Vicar & his wife seemed a bit short sighted, but then I am looking thru the lens of the 21st century, and knowing that having the right people present with those with anxiety, it can be an incredible support.
Evan Glenside is a like-able character, that endears the reader quickly. He's a fresh face to the gentry, having inherited the heir to the title position unexpectedly. The sections written between him and Cassie were beautifully done and I could not put this book down. Heavy on the remorse, and harsh punishment it felt like at times, I was grateful to see all come to rights in the end. I appreciated the insight that sometimes taking someone away from the comfort zone and protective behaviors that were born out of love, that Leonora found the space to find the courage to 'be'. That isn't always the answer, but I do agree that in discovering that you can do something yourself, the knowledge in that brings great power, to move forward!
Thank you to Shadow Mountain & Netgalley for the complimentary copy. This is my honest review.
This is another book in Shadow Mountain's A Proper Romance Line. Josi Kilpack has written several books in this line. This one is excellent, just like the others.
I could tell from the description of this book that I was going to be uncomfortable. I have a hard time with the "reveal" of deception. I always wonder how it could possibly work out. So I went in to this book already wondering "how can this possibly work out?".
I enjoyed reading the development of the relationships in this book. Some of these relationships include Cassie's relationships with her sister, her parents, herself and Evan as well as Lenora's relationship with Evan, her parents, and herself. The relationships change in the course of the book to a deeper level. They mature as the characters gain more understanding and develop their own selves.
As much as this is a romance, one of my favorite aspects of the book is the development of Cassie and her sister, Lenora. Both women are stilted in their emotions. Both are somewhat self absorbed. As they reap the consequences of their actions, they see life from a different perspective. They see each other from a different perspective as well. They mature in being concerned for others.
And, I truly loved both Cassie and Evan as their relationship unfolded. I hoped that they could find happiness, hopefully with each other, but if not, then somehow with someone else. There were painful moments and happy moments and I'm glad that I had a smile on my face when the book ended. Josi Kilpack found a way for the conflict to "work out".
Warnings: None
I would let my 15 year old read this book.