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Good morning everyone!!
These little animals we have added to the homestead certainly keep us busy. Princess Buttercup told me two days ago that she loves living on her farm. ahhhh, warmed my heart.
The goats are getting bigger and getting their horns. They are eating hay and solid food now so we have to get them to drink water so they can be weaned off of the bottle.
The horse, Shiloh, is doing well. The girls are anxious to ride but the weather is not cooperating too much. They did jump on for a little bareback the other day.
Princess Daisy is working hard to earn her cooking badge with American Heritage Girls. She is super excited to earn badges. Princess Buttercup is working on a few also.
Bug-a-bug took this photo for her online photography class from Currclick. I think she did a nice job.
I haven't taken pictures yet but the girls are all working on presentation boards for a country fair with some other homeschoolers. Each picked a country and it working hard on their board. They are due on Wednesday so we will be spending most of out time on Monday working on the boards.
The littles are also busy working on their life size human body. They are learning about the different body parts and what they do. We traced their bodies onto paper and are cutting out the organs to put on the body. Its pretty fun and they really enjoy it.
I'm off for now. Have a wonderful and blessed week!
Sunday, March 26, 2017
Saturday, March 11, 2017
Crazy busy
Hello everyone!! I have not posted in quite a while. Honestly, I'm not sure where the time goes. We have been very busy on our little homestead. The cow went into the butcher a few weeks ago and the two pigs went in last week. Our freezers will be stocked. Hubby has informed me that he'd like to get a meat grinder and we will attempt to make our own sausage. Hopefully that will go well!
We also added two baby goats that we're bottle feeding and a new horse.
I'll have to upload the pictures of the horse for you to see.
One the school front, we've been very busy
Have a wonderful weekend!!
We also added two baby goats that we're bottle feeding and a new horse.
I'll have to upload the pictures of the horse for you to see.
One the school front, we've been very busy
- Horseback riding lessons started again last week. The girls have improved a lot from when they started two years ago. This is helping with our horse also, as she is trained but hasn't been worked with in over a year.
- Gymnastics class with other homeschoolers has been going on since November. The three youngest participate in the class. It has been a huge blessing. There are only about four more weeks left then we will break until the fall.
- We just finished up ice skating. Twice a month during the winter, the ice rink has open skate on Monday afternoons. The homeschoolers have taken full advantage of this. I even skated. It wasn't pretty as its been years since I skated but I didn't fall. The girls have never really been on the ice and did great.
- Read alouds: I continue to read the Betsy books by Carolyn Haywood and The Boxcare Children books to youngest two. They love the stories.
- Bible: Our American Heritage Girls troop is memorizing Proverbs 31 and the class at church is teaching the littles the books of the Bible.
- Science: The littles are studying the human body. We just started and they are enjoying it so far.
- History: The littles are studying Native Americans
- Math, Reading, Spelling, and Grammar continue. Both littles are making huge strides this year but are a little behind so we are working hard to get caught up.
- The two big girls are very independent in their work. Princess is taking an Interior Design class from Currclick Live and Bug-a-Bug is taking a French class and just finishe da photography class from Currclick Live also.
Have a wonderful weekend!!
Posted by Michelle at 6:39 PM 1 comment : Links to this post
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The Parisian-inspired boutique is doing better numbers than some of the world's most-renowned home-furnishing retailers.
The Canadian sports retailer plans to open another 5-6 massive stores of about 70,000 square feet each over the next 3 years, with plans for more thereafter.
An expert discusses components to success, including layout, columns, entrances, ventilation, loading, and other considerations.

subset: commoncrawl


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I just made a new denim skirt for myself because my current one is getting very faded and worn-looking. This has gotten me thinking about my fall & winter season, at-home wardrobe, which I love because it is so simple!
For several years now, I've had a rule that I only buy what will go with black shoes and nylons. So almost every day (remember, I stay at home), I wear a dark skirt, a turtleneck (I have lots of colors—although white is my favorite), and a full-length (full-body) apron—the old-fashioned kind. Even my hair clips and headbands are black, since I'm always wearing black shoes!
It is so simple, AND I get to pretend I'm old-fashioned! I'm sure everyone who comes to my door thinks I'm crazy, but I don't care! My next project needs to be another apron, because I go through them pretty quickly, and my November/Thanksgiving apron is beginning to fall apart!
Here's an apron pattern I used a few years ago, and I loved it so much, I wore it out!
And below is the pattern I'd like to use to make aprons for my two daughters…


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Quite simply, you will not be able to put this on your windows and power your house. The efficiency, ~4%, is just too low, though it is typical of organic polymer PV. (For photovoltaic technology, the efficiency is the proportion of electric energy delivered by the system to the optical energy that was incident on the system.) For comparison, conventional flat panel silicon is usually around 15-20% efficient. On the low cost side of things, thin film panels are around 8-12% efficient, and on the high-cost side, multijunction cells are >40% You can see the record efficiencies in the chart below. (To be clear, these are the world records for various technologies, and only include the cell itself, not any other losses in a complete system. Commercial units have lower performance.)
(Image from National Renewable Energy Laboratory)
Why is the efficiency of the UCLA technology so low? Most of the reason is obvious: the cells are transparent. The paper cites the transparency in the visible spectrum as 61-66%, depending on wavelength. In other words, almost two-thirds of visible light is passing directly through the photovoltaic. This light cannot possibly be converted into electrical energy.
Furthermore, not all photons are created equal. The energy of a photon is proportional to its frequency. So, high-frequency ultraviolet light has more energy than visible light, which has more energy than infrared light. The IR light being targeted by this photovoltaic simply has very low energy, though the UV light also being converted is high-energy.
Of course, the energy from one photon doesn't give you the whole picture. You also care about the total number of photons in order to get the total power. So what is the distribution of power across the solar spectrum?
(Image from Lawrence Berkeley National Lab)
I should add here that the researchers obviously are aware that transparent phovoltaics won't have high efficiency. There are some great applications driving this kind of technology. While windows from these cells won't eliminate your energy bill, they will lower it. Plus, since they're absorbing IR light, your house will heat up less, and you'll need less air-conditioning. Integrating this technology with electronics is even more interesting. Think of the typical solar-powered calculator. Instead of having that little strip of PV cells, the actual display can serve as the power source, freeing up real estate on the front of the device. And just imagine using this on a cell phone! You could use the screen of your phone to help keep it charged during the day.
In the end, this is some very clever technology that will have a number of useful applications, but don't expect to see your windows powering your whole house.
*Changing the materials in order to accept longer wavelength, lower frequency light will reduce the amount of energy captured from higher frequency light. I'll have a post later just on this concept, but for now, you'll have to trust me.
(Edited to use a different image of the solar spectrum. The first one I used had some outdated information on it.)


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Elsa & Fiona are a mother/daughter pair that came to The Devoted Barn from the streets of Detroit. They had been living in the same area for many years. People in the area would feed them. Some neighbors remember seeing Elsa in the area as far back as 7 years ago. That is a long life on the streets. Someone ended up calling Detroit Animal Control to come trap Elsa & Fiona. Upon hearing this, The Devoted Barn stepped in and brought them into our feral dog program.
Fiona came out of her shell very quickly once arriving at The Devoted Barn. Her favorite time of day is when we hand feed the ferals. She is not shy about pushing others out of the way to get to that yummy food!
Elsa is a little more reserved but is still making really good progress at the barn. She also loves hand feeding time and she is not afraid to let the other dogs know that she is the boss!
Update 3/6/15: Elsa and Fiona have come so far since they arrived at The Devoted Barn. Both of them allow us to pet them now. Elsa has decided she really loves pets and will even roll over for a belly rub! They are learning how to sit while we hand feed them. Both of these girls are ready for the next step on their journey; a foster home.


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Pune University Results 2017 for B.Sc, B.Com, BE, BA, B.Tech, MA, M.Com, MBA, MCA, BBA, LLB etc declared at @unipune.ac.in:
Pune University has declared the results of various UG and PG courses online for April/May 2017 all exams in the form of Pune University Results 2017 on their official website. The students who are pursuing the education in any faculty of Pune University can check their results online from here.
Update (26-06-2017): Pune University has declared the Pune University Results of various courses for April/May 2017 exam and can be checked from the direct link given below.
Savitribai Phule Pune University was founded in 1948 and formerly known as the University of Pune which is located in the Pune city. The university has 46 academic departments and has been given the highest 'A' rating by NAAC (National Assessment and Accreditation Council) for its overall performance. The University of Pune was renamed as Savitribai Phule Pune University on 9 November 2014 after Savitribai Phule, an Indian social reformer who is known for her contribution towards empowerment and emancipation of women through education.
The Savitribai Phule Pune University had 41 graduate departments, 433 affiliated colleges and 232 recognized research institutions, with an enrollment of more than 5 lakh students for various undergraduate and graduate courses in science, social science, management, engineering, law etc.
The Pune University conducts examination for various UG and PG courses in two sessions; March/April and Oct/Nov every year.
Pune University (Unipune) April 2017 Results
The university has successfully conducted the examination of various UG and PG courses in the April 2017 session. A large number of students have appeared in the exam and all are waiting for the Pune University Results 2017.
The Savitribai Phule Pune University will soon start the declaration of results of April 2017 end semester examination on their official website, so stay connected with us to get the latest news about UniPune Result 2017.
How to Check Pune University Results 2017?
The students, who appeared in the Pune University Winter Examination, can check their Pune University Results 2017 by simple steps given here or from the direct link given by JobsLab team. Out team will post Faculty wise result on this page and you can check it from the table given below.
- Visit the official website of Pune University i.e. unipune.ac.in
- Now hover the mouse pointer on Students Corner, which is located in the top menu.
- Click on the results link from the list of menu.
- On the result page clicks the appropriate link from Updated Result or Revaluation Result.
- Now select the course from the list and click the result link.
- The Pune University Results will be displayed on your screen.
- Find (Ctrl+F) your roll number from the list.
Check Pune University Even/Odd Sem Results 2017
Check Unipune Even/Odd Sem Revaluation Results 2017
Official Website: http://www.unipune.ac.in


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The term long-acting ARV injectable refers to an antiretroviral drug that is delivered via an injection and persists in the body for an extended period of time. These drugs are being developed as treatment for people living with HIV and as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV-negative people. The goal is to develop an injectable-only regimen that would minimize adherence requirements. For both treatment and prevention, daily dosing can be a challenge. Some people might prefer a product that is discreet and requires less frequent dosing. The candidates that are furthest along are rilpivirine (also known as TMC278, brandname Edurant) and cabotegravir-LA (also known as GSK744-LA -- and is an analog of the drug dolutegravir). Injectable antibodies are also being considered for PrEP.
The physical and chemical properties of ARVs like cabotegravir and rilpivirine make them good candidates for long-acting injectables. Specifically, they are potent, poorly water-soluble and have relatively small oral doses, meaning that the volume of an injected dose will not be too high.
A drug only works if it is present in sufficient quantities in the body. Each medication is processed, or metabolized, by the body in a specific way. Some drugs are processed rapidly, others more slowly. Long-acting injectables have a long half-life, which means the drug remains in the system for a long time. This is good because it allows less frequent dosing. But it can be challenging if someone wants or needs to stop using the medication, since it takes some time for it to leave the body. For long-acting injectables, it is essential to understand how the drug is processed -- the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of the drugs in the body -- to be sure that a given dose leads to blood levels that are safe and effective.


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Thursday, 04 March 2010 12:43 PM
House Democratic leaders are pushing to finish far-reaching health legislation and hold a climactic vote in the next three weeks, aiming to overcome reluctance from the rank-and-file lawmakers while answering President Barack Obama's challenge for swift action.
House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer said Thursday that Democrats would like to get a final vote by Congress' Easter break, which begins March 29. But Hoyer also said "the world doesn't fall apart" if that timeline isn't met — a nod to the many blown deadlines that have characterized the health overhaul effort so far.
Democratic leaders are contending with a host of undecided lawmakers who want to see the fine print before making a decision. Hoyer said final language and a cost estimate should come back from the Congressional Budget Office by the end of next week.
"At this point in time we don't have a bill," Hoyer said. "It's a little difficult to count votes if you don't have a bill."
Separately, more than a dozen House Democrats had a meeting scheduled on the issue with Obama at the White House Thursday afternoon. Among the group were lawmakers who voted against the legislation last year. Obama is leaving for an Asia trip March 18 and the White House would ideally like to see action before then, something Hoyer said was "doable," while noting the bill still hasn't been completed.
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., said Thursday, "I feel very confident about how we go forward."
"Every legislative lift is a heavy lift around here," Pelosi said.
At its core, the legislation still is largely along the lines Obama has long sought. It would extend coverage to tens of millions of uninsured Americans while cracking down on insurance company practices such as denying policies on the basis of pre-existing medical conditions. An insurance exchange would be created in which private companies could sell policies to consumers.
Much of the cost of the legislation, nearly $1 trillion over a decade, would be financed by cuts in future Medicare payments and higher payroll taxes on individuals earning more than $200,000 and couples more than $250,000.
In his latest changes Obama added some Republican ideas raised at last week's bipartisan summit, including renewed efforts on changes in medical malpractice and rooting out waste and fraud from the system.
The House passed health overhaul legislation by a narrow 220-215 vote in November and since then several Democrats have defected or left the House. To avoid a filibuster in the Senate that Democrats can't defeat, Obama is now pushing the House to approve the Senate's version of the bill, along with a package of changes to fix elements of the Senate bill that House Democrats don't like, including a special Medicaid deal for Nebraska and a tax on high-value insurance plans opposed by organized labor.
Obama made a closing argument for action Wednesday, saying, "I believe the United States Congress owes the American people a final vote."
The legislative maneuvering ahead is tricky and Democratic leaders are facing a groundswell of discontent from lawmakers who've taken a political beating over the past year of corrosive debate. As many as a dozen anti-abortion Democrats are threatening to defect because of the Senate bill's more permissive language on federal funding of the procedure.
The outcome will depend on lawmakers like Rep. Dina Titus, D-Nev., a first-term lawmaker in a divided district who overcame initial qualms to vote for the legislation in November, only to come under attack from Republicans over the decision. Titus said Thursday she's undecided.
"I think what's happened in my district is, there's a great deal of uncertainty," Titus said. "Some people still think there's death panels."
Titus said she's trying to make the decision based on what's best for her district, leaving political considerations aside, but lawmakers who switch from voting "yes" to voting "no" — or vice versa — risk being labeled flip-floppers.
In his speech Wednesday, Obama called for an "up-or-down vote" within weeks under rules denying Republicans the ability to block the bill with a filibuster.
Lawmakers were almost finished merging House and Senate versions of sweeping overhaul legislation when a special election last month cost Democrats their filibuster-proof Senate majority, throwing the effort into disarray. With Republicans united in opposition, there is no certainty about the outcome of Obama's final push.
Thirty-nine Democrats voted "no" on the House bill, and Pelosi will probably need some of those to switch their votes to make up for votes lost from anti-abortion Democrats and others.
"We're not going to vote for the bill with that language in there," Rep. Bart Stupak, D-Mich., leader of the anti-abortion Democrats in the House, said on ABC's "Good Morning America" Thursday.
"I want to see health care, but we're not going to bypass some principles that we believe strongly about," Stupak said.
Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius, appearing on the same show, said she hoped that "when the bill is in its final form and people have a chance to look at it, I think they will understand that this bill does not change the status quo on abortion."
"There will be no federal financing of abortion," she said.
It will take major efforts by Obama and Democratic leaders in the weeks ahead to put those concerns and others to rest. Obama has already made plans to try to sell the legislation directly to the public in states that are the home districts of opposed or wavering lawmakers, with visits planned Monday to Philadelphia and Wednesday to St. Louis.
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It is the summer of 2008 and I'm on a train ride to my new company headquarters for job training and orientation. It is so hot and humid here in June. I wish didn't have to wear a suit. I'm already sweating at it is only 9am. I haven't taken the train since I was a girl and I'm not sure of the procedure so I am here early. To early as it turns out. I didn't realize you can practically walk onto the train from the station which is so small and seems to be a throwback to an earlier time. I step on and grab a seat next to the window that I want so I can watch the views go by. I carefully remove my jacket, put my bag away, and grab my book, headphones and music. I'm all ready to sit back for a couple hours, cool down and relax. After sitting for a bit we take off and a few minutes later arrive at the DC station stop Union Station; this is a much larger station and many start to board the train. The seat is empty next to me but I have a feeling it is about to be taken.
With my headphones on and reading I'm hoping to avoid any distraction from anyone who may want to sit and talk the entire time. Suddenly someone takes the seat next to me. It is an older black gentleman. I'm awful with age but I know he is older; possibly 80's. We smile and I turn back to my book. I can see out of the corner of my eye that he is wearing some kind of brown uniform. Looks kind of like a military uniform. He removes his hat and puts it under the seat. At first I just stay still, hoping to avoid further eye contact. I had plans and excited to see what happens in the next chapter of this book.
As we start to pull away from the station he starts talking to me. I have to remove one headphone but hoping the way I did it shows him that I wasn't listening and desire to keep it that way. "How are you? Where are you going?"He says. I tell him I'm off for work. Keep it simple. "I'm Joe and my wife back there and I have been married for almost 50 years." I think maybe he would want to be with her but obviously two seats weren't available. "Would you like me to move so you can sit together?" I say thinking that was his point of talking to me. He responds "No it is quite alright. She is fine – see." I look back and see that she is quite fine – reading her book.
"We are heading to a few schools. I often travel and visit schools to see the young kids." He says. "I was in World War II and I go to tell them my story". Ok now I'm interested. What is this 'story'. "Back then in the war we were segregated as part of the US army; so I wasn't allowed to fight, live around or eat with other races than my own." He said it so calmly and matter of fact; really no emotion to it. He went on. "I traveled and saw much of the world though. I learned so much from it. Also I watched many of my closest friends die." I really stop and listen now as I can only imagine what that feels like. I say "How do you come back from that and move-on with life?" He smiles and responds, "That is what I'm doing at the schools. I'm there to tell the students that you have choices and each of us can make a difference. Sure life can be hard but they can learn from it and be anything they want to be. Our country may not be perfect but we have so many great choices available Life is too short to walk around with all that hate and anger." He says with a big tooth grin.
We passed the time as I sat listening to his stories about the war, coming home, meeting his wife, having kids and growing up in DC. He told me about raising his kids and the kind of lessons he provided them as a Father. He has seen so much change in his lifetime and now goes to schools at his own cost to share his story. "So many of the young kids haven't seen or been through a war. I don't want the memory of what my friends died for to be lost. I feel my destiny is to speak, pass it on and help others." He reaches out and pats the top of my hand as if I understand this.
I like the word 'destiny' as I find so many don't listen to what is right for them. Yes even I have had many times where I didn't trust myself but when I return it feels right – like home. "I too feel my destiny is to help others" I tell him. I go on to tell him how I help others both by helping others find new jobs and by teaching yoga. He smiles at me in such an understanding way. "I think we were destined to meet. Do you believe in angels?" He says. This puts a smile on my face. No further words are required as we understand each other.
Before I know it the hours have gone by. His stop arrives and mine isn't far ahead. We say good-bye and instead of feeling as if I wasted the time or missed reading my book I'm left feeling a sad loss that I won't know him again. He has left the train with his wife and the seat is once again empty next to me. Yet I feel great in knowing that we shared this brief moment. All the worries or concerns I had about my life, the new job, future, expectations all slowly melt away. Maybe my angel needed to remind me and sent this stranger to me. `
"I've learned that no matter what happens, or how bad it seems today, life does go on, and it will be better tomorrow…. I've learned that whenever I decide something with an open heart, I usually make the right decision…. I've learned that every day you should reach out and touch someone… I've learned that I still have a lot to learn… I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." – Maya Angelou RIP May 2014


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Forthcoming dates in 2016:
• Wednesday 14 September
Faith Mission Tent, Killaughey (near the Windmill, Millisle)
• Saturday 1 October 2016
Faith Mission Tent, Killaughey (near the Windmill, Millisle)
• Saturday 1 October 2016
Burnside Orange Hall, Templepatrick
• Saturday 8 October 2016
Gideons Conference, Antrim
• Friday 21 October 2016
Dromore High School, with Justified and Revival
• Friday 4 November 2016
With Warren Smyth, Harrison's Greyabbey
• Sat 12 and Sun 13 November 2016
New Prestwick Baptist Church, Ayrshire
Previous dates in 2016:
• Sunday 10 January 2016Dromore Independent Methodist
• Friday 15 January 2016
Orange Community Awards, Lagan Valley Island Centre
• Saturday 6 February 2016
Comber Baptist Church - Burns Night
• Thursday 25 February 2016Greenwell Street Presbyterian Church, Newtownards
• Sunday 13 March 2016
Dromore Presbyterian Church, Coolyvenny Road, Coleraine.
• Friday 8th April
New Prestwick Baptist Church, Ayrshire
• Friday 8th April
Ballywalter Presbyterian Church• Saturday 14 May 2016
• Wednesday 13 April Thursday 14 April
People's Hall, Portavogie
New Prestwick Baptist Church, Ayrshire
• Sunday 22 May 2016
Lisburn Independent Methodist
• Sunday 5 June (afternoon)
Saintfield Orange Hall
Previous dates in 2015:
(36 in total )
• Friday 16th January 2015
St Hildas, Seymour Hill, Dunmurry
• Sunday 18th January 2015
Kilkeel Baptist Church
• Friday 30th January 2015
Orange Community Awards, Lagan Valley Island, Lisburn
• Saturday 31st January 2015
Dunseverick Baptist Church
• Sunday 1st February 2015
New Dawn, Broughshane Community Centre
• Friday 13th February 2015
St Saviour's Church of Ireland, Craigavon. With Stonewall.
• Saturday 21st & Sunday 22nd February 2015
Brucefield Church of Scotland, Whitburn, West Lothian
• Sunday 1st March 2015
Millisle Presbyterian Church
• Saturday 7th March 2015
Edenderry Orange Hall, Portadown
• Thursday 12th March 2015
Greenwell Street Presbyterian Church, Newtownards
• Friday 20th March 2015
Burnavon Theatre, with Kathryn Mitchell and other artists, fundraiser for Roma charity
• Friday 27th March 2015
Killyleagh Baptist Church
• Thursday 9th & Friday 10th April 2015
People's Hall, Portavogie
• Saturday 18th April 2015
Greyabbey Village Hall, with Portavogie Pipe Band
• Tuesday 12th May 2015
Loughbrickland Black Evangelical Fellowship
• Sunday 17th May 2015
Killyleagh Baptist Church
• Saturday 23rd May 2015
Embrace Comber
• Sunday 28th June 2015
Annalong Orange Hall
• Wednesday 1st July 2015
Culcavey Gospel Hall annual praise marquee event
• Friday 25 September 2015
• Sunday 6th September 2015
Knocknamuckley Parish Church (near Portadown)
• Friday 25 September 2015
Knocknagoney Hall
• Friday 2 October
Millisle Presbyterian Church concert
• Sunday 4 October 2015
Brooklands Gospel Centre, Dundonald
• Saturday 10 October 2015
Greenisland Church of the Nazarene
• Saturday 28 November 2015
• Wednesday 28 October 2015
Silverbirch Hotel, Omagh (with other artists).
• Sunday 1 November 2015
Peoples Hall, Portavogie
• Sunday 8 November 2015
Ballysillan Independent Methodist
• Saturday 28 November 2015
Lisburn CWU Hall
• Sunday 29 November 2015
2nd Randalstown Presbyterian
• Thursday 3 December 2015
Dunmurry Free Presbyterian Church
• Sunday 6 December 2015
Branagh Memorial Hall, East Belfast
• Sunday 20 December 2015
Portavogie Presbyterian Church
• Sunday 27 December 2015
Iron Hall, Belfast
• Thursday 31 December 2015
Loughbrickland, with Simple Faith
Previous dates in 2014:
(38 in total)
• Sunday 19th January 2014
Mount Zion Community Church, Lisburn
• Saturday 25th January 2014
Theatre at the Mill, Newtownabbey
• Sunday 26th January 2014
Killicomaine Baptist Church, Portadown
• Saturday 1st February 2014
Gilnahirk Presbyterian Church, with Gilnahirk Pipe Band and Risin Stour
• Thursday 6th February 2014
Newtownards Elim Centre
• Friday 14th February 2014
St Saviour's Parish Church, Craigavon
• Saturday 1st March 2014
Maranatha Hall, Carrowdore
• Sunday 2nd March 2014
'The Shed' Mission Weekend, 25 Killyberry Lane, Bellaghy, BT45 8LN
• Friday 7th March 2014
with Warren Smyth at Harrison's, Greyabbey
• Sunday 23rd March 2014
Dromore Presbyterian Church, Coolyvenny Road, Coleraine.
Fields of Life fundraiser evening
• Wednesday 9th April 2014
The People's Hall, Portavogie
• Sunday 20 April 2014
Mountain Lodge, Darkley, Co Armagh, 3pm and 7.15pm
• Friday 25th April 2014
McKee's Country Store and Restaurant
• Thursday 15th May 2014
with Simple Faith, Stonewall, Kingdom Bound and Maria Gilpin. Fields of Life fundraiser concert
• Sunday 1st June 2014
Saintfield Orange Hall
• Friday 13th June 2014, 8pm
Londonderry Free Presbyterian Church, with Calvary Male Voice Choir (Magherafelt) and Karla Gregg
• Saturday 21st June 2014
Grace Baptist Church, Belfast (with Charles Ross from Tennessee)
• Thursday 26th June 2014
Clones, Co Monaghan
• Thursday 10th July 2014
Ards Arts Centre
• Saturday 12th July 2014
Newtownards 12th Demonstration
• Saturday 16th August 2014
• Friday 15th August 2014
Private BBQ function, Portadown
• Saturday 16th August 2014
GospelFest, afternoon set
• Friday 22nd August 2014
Portstewart Town Hall
• Sunday 31st August 2014
Iron Hall, Belfast
• Sunday 14th Sept 2014
Coleraine Independent Methodist
• Friday 19th September 2014
Londonderry; details to be confirmed
• Saturday 27th September 2014
Killicomaine Baptist Church, Portadown
• Monday 6th October 2014
1st Rathfriland Presbyterian Church
• Saturday 11th October 2014
Bangor Abbey
• Sunday 26th October 2014
Abbots Cross Congregational Church
• Saturday 1st November 2014
CWU Ballynahinch
• Wednesday 5th November 2014
Ballywalter Presbyterian Church PW evening
• Saturday 8th November 2014
Whitby Gospel Music Convention 'Winter Warmer' event
• Friday 14th November 2014
Mullabrack Church of Ireland, Co Armagh
With Stonewall and Kathryn Mitchell
• Saturday 15th November 2014
Granshaw Presbyterian Church
• Sunday 14th December 2014
• Sunday 30th November 2014
Monkstown Baptist Church
• Saturday 6th December 2014
Carrowdore Community Centre
• Sunday 14th December 2014
Newtownards Baptist Church
Previous dates in 2013:(32 in total)
• Friday 25th January
Burns Night, Carrowdore Community Centre
• Saturday 2nd February
Edenderry Orange Hall, Portadown (with Clive Elliott)
• Saturday 9th February
Brooklands Gospel Centre, Dundonald
• Saturday 16th February
Burnside Orange Hall, near Templepatrick
• Thursday 21st February
Strean Presbyterian Church, Newtownards
• Friday 22nd February
2nd Presbyterian Church, Randalstown
• Friday 8th March
Edengrove Presbyterian Church, Ballynahinch
• Saturday 23rd March
The Word, Ballygowan, Hillsborough (postponed due to snow)
• Friday 29th March
Cairnalbana Presbyterian Church, Co Antrim (postponed)
• Tuesday 9th April + Thursday 11th April
Portavogie Bible Week, People's Hall
• Friday 26th April
McKee's Country Store, Craigantlet (with Fred Greenfield and Karla Gregg)
• Saturday 27th April
Castlereagh Presbyterian Church (with The Colorado Band)
• Saturday 11th May
Calvary Baptist Church, Dee Street, Belfast (with Pathway Quartet and Marilyn Mills)
• Friday 14th June
Ballymena / Broughshane
• Saturday 29th June
The Game and Country Fair, Shanes Castle, Randalstown
(With 2nd Randalstown Presbyterian Church)
• Sunday 7th July
Donaghadee Methodist Church, 3pm
• Wednesday 14th August
Killinchy Parish Hall
• Sunday 1st September
Kilkeel Baptist Church, evening service
• Friday 6th September
Killultagh Orange Hall, Ballinderry
• Saturday 7th September
Broadisland Gathering, Ballycarry
• Sunday 22nd September
Lurgan Baptist Church, evening service
• Saturday 5th October
Private booking
• Friday 18th October
Donaghadee Methodist
• Sunday 27th October
Monkstown Baptist Church
• Friday 1st - Sunday 3rd November
Private booking
• Saturday 9th November
Whitby Gospel Music evening, Whitby, Yorkshire
• Saturday 16th November
Glenmachan Church of God anniversary concert
• Monday 18th November
Castlereagh Presbyterian Church
• Friday 29th November
Kirkistown Orange Hall
• Saturday 30th November
Tandragee Presbyterian Church
• Saturday 21st December
Victoria Evangelical Hall, Carrickfergus
Previous dates in 2012:(28 in total)
• Friday 27th January
Burns Night, Willowfield Parish Church, East Belfast
• Saturday 4th February
Edenderry Orange Hall, Portadown
• Monday 13th February
Donaghadee Methodist Church
• Saturday 18th February
CWU Lisburn
• Thursday 23rd February
Armagh Market Place Theatre, with Stonewall
• Friday 2nd March
Burnavon Theatre, Cookstown, with Live Issue, Kathryn Mitchell, Paul Irwin and the 1147ers
• Saturday 10th March
Kirlish, Co Tyrone
• Sunday 11th March
Richview Street Presbyterian, Belfast
• Saturday 17th March
Ballyrashane Presbyterian Church, near Coleraine
• Sunday 1st, Monday 2nd, Tuesday 3rd & Wed 4th April
The People's Hall, Portavogie
• Sunday 29th April
Grove Baptist Church
• Sunday 20th May
2nd Newtownards Presbyterian Church
• Saturday 26th May
'The Shelter', Portballintrae
• Sunday 3rd June
Kilkeel Baptist Church
• Saturday 9th June
Magherafelt (venue tbc)
• Friday 10th August
Ballymoney Town Hall, details to follow
• Friday 17th August
Portstewart Town Hall, details to follow
• Thursday 13th September
Killinchy Parish Church, with Stonewall
• Saturday 29th September
Stormont Estate
• Saturday 13th October
Bangor Abbey
• Saturday 20th October
Private engagement
• Friday 2nd November
Newtownards concert, info tbc
• Sunday 4 November 2012
Portavogie Presbyterian Church, 6.30pm
• Sunday 2 December 2012
Iron Hall, Belfast
• Thursday 6 December 2012
Dunmurry Free Presbyterian Church
Previous dates in 2011:(26 in total)
• Sunday 9th January
Ballynahinch Congregational Church
• Saturday 22nd January
Queen's Hall, Newtownards
• Tuesday 25th January
Willowfield Parish Church Burns Night event
• Friday 11 February
St Saviour's Church of Ireland, Craigavon
(with soloists George Walker and Phillis Corrigan, and Accordion Sounds)
• Sunday 13 February
Brooklands Gospel Centre, Dundonald
• Sunday 20 February (morning)
Mount Zion Community Church, Lisburn
• Sunday 6th March
Richview St Presbyterian Church, Donegall Road, Belfast
• Saturday 12th March
Olivet Hall, East Belfast, 3pm
• Saturday 26th March
Burnavon Theatre, Cookstown. With our friends Live Issue, Kathryn Mitchell, Paul Irwin and the 1147ers.
• Sunday 10th April
Kilkeel Baptist Church
• Saturday 28th May
'The Shelter', Portballintrae, with Revelation
• Saturday 4th June
Glastry Methodist Church
• Sunday 26th June, 8.15pm
Tent Mission, Newtownards, Co Down
• Tuesday 12th July
Demonstration field, Comber, Co Down
• Sunday 28th August
People's Hall, Portavogie
• Thursday 1st September
Broadisland Gathering, Ballycarry, County Antrim
• Saturday 10th September
Tullyallen & Mountnorris Presbyterian Church - cd launch event
• Saturday 24th September
Lisnafillan Mission Hall, Galgorm, Ballymena
• Friday 7 October
Donegore Presbyterian Church harvest evening
• Tuesday 11 October
Loughbrickland Black Evangelical Fellowship.
• Saturday 22 October
Gransha Presbyterian Church (near the La Mon House Hotel)
• Sunday 6th November
Knocknamuckley Church of Ireland (near Portadown), evening service
• Saturday 12th November
Lisburn concert, venue to be confirmed
• Thursday 1st December
Craigavon Civic Centre
• Saturday 3rd December
Spectrum Centre, Shankill Road
• Sunday 4th December
Iron Hall, Belfast
Previous dates in 2010:(34 in total)
• Thursday 14th January
Greenwell Street Presbyterian Church, Newtownards
• Saturday 30th January
The Cottage Meeting, Newtownards
• Friday 12th February
Ballee High School, Ballymena. More details to follow!
• Saturday 20th February
Burnside Orange Hall, near Templepatrick (with the Calvary Quartet)
• Sunday 7th March
Richview Presbyterian Church, Donegall Road, Belfast
• Thursday 11th March
Whitewell Metropolitan Tabernacle, Belfast
• Sunday 21st March
Willowfield Parish Church, Belfast - 10am service
• Sunday 28th March
Carrowdore Mission Hall evening service, 7pm
• Friday 7th May
McKee's Country Store, Craigantlet, 7.30pm NEW CD LAUNCH - An evening of "Soda Farls and Redemption Songs". Free entry. Cup of tea and soda bread for everybody, copies of Redemption Songs at the door - come ready to sing!
• Sunday 9th May
Brooklands Gospel Centre
• Saturday 15th May
Mountnorris Presbyterian Church Hall, near Markethill, Co. Armagh. Other artists are Colin Elliott (Live Issue), William Sayers and Tammy Qua
• Thursday 27th May
Portavogie Primary School - Ulster-Scots evening
• Sunday 6th June
Mount Zion Community Church, Lisburn, 7pm
• Sunday 13th June
Saintfield Orange Hall, 7pm. Special evening service
• Thursday 24th June
Bushmills Orange Hall, Co. Antrim. Also performing will be Mark Carmichael, Parker Donnelly, and the McIiwaine Family. Starts at 8.00pm
• Wednesday 7th July
Culcavey Hall, Lisburn. Also performing will be Sam Jenkins and Soul Purpose. Starts at 8.00pm
• Saturday 31st July & Sunday 1st August
Cairncastle Ulster-Scots Folk Festival, Co Antrim. Saturday evening soirée at 7.30pm, we might also take part in the Sunday afternoon praise service at 2.30pm
• Sunday 15th August
Brooklands Gospel Centre
• Friday 20th August
Portstewart Town Hall. With "Justified" and Martin Moore. Phone John Morrison 7086 8437
• Saturday 21st August
"GospelFest", Donacloney, Co Down with Live Issue and Iris Evans
• Sunday 29th August
The People's Hall, Portavogie, 8.15pm
• Friday 3rd September, 8.00pm
Burnside Presbyterian Church, Portstewart. Also performing will be Eaden Accordion Orchestra, Corner Stone, Nigel Davison and Soul Purpose.
• Thursday 16th September
Greenwell Street Presbyterian Church, Newtownards
• Saturday 18th September, 3.00pm
Disabled Christian Fellowship event, Bangor. Contact Albert Brown 9146 3984
• Saturday 25th September
Ballygowan Presbyterian Church, with Risin Stour. Contact John Hanna 9752 8325
• Saturday 2nd October
First Comber Presbyterian, Men on a Mission Ethiopia fundraising evening. Tickets £6 each, contact Gary Jackson on 07708 709232
• Sunday 3rd October
Ballywalter Orange Hall mission, preacher Trevor Bennett
• Sunday 10th October
Ballywalter Orange Hall mission, preacher Trevor Bennett
• Friday 15th October
'An Evening of Ulster Scots Music and Crack' part of Newtownards Ulster-Scots Festival Week. Venue is the Old Town Hall Newtownards. Hosted by David Anderson MVO, MBE. Also performing will be Lord Londonderry's Own CLB Band, Wilbert Magill and the Newtownards Orange Male Voice Choir . There will also be a talk on Asha Koran School in India by Billy Curry. A retiring offering will be collected in aid of the School. Entry £5.00.
• Saturday 16th October, 7.45pm
Knocknamuckley Parish Church Hall, Co Armagh. Harvest Supper evening
• Friday 22nd October
Private function for Westbourne Presbyterian Church, Belfast.
• Saturday 6th November, 7.00pm
Carrowdore Mission Hall, monthly rally evening.
• Tuesday 9th November, 8.00pm
2nd Presbyterian Church, Newtownards.
• Sunday 28th November, 7.00pm
First Rathfriland Presbyterian Church.
• Sunday 5th December, 7.00pm
Iron Hall, Belfast.
• Thursday 16th December, 7.00pm
Carol Service, Ballywalter Orange Hall.
Previous dates in 2009:(28 in total)
• Sunday 22 February
Willowfield Parish Church, Belfast
• Thursday 26th February
Greenwell Street Presbyterian Church, Newtownards
• Sunday 1st March
Richview Street Presbyterian Church, Donegall Road, Belfast
• Saturday 21st March
Stranocum Alternative St Patrick's Night, Stranocum Orange Hall
• Friday 27th March
Wilbert Magill book launch evening, The Old Town Hall, Newtownards
• Saturday 28th March & Sunday 29th March
Killicomaine Baptist Church, Portadown
• Sunday 12th April
Disraeli Street Mission Hall, Woodvale Road, Belfast
• Saturday 25th April
1859 Revival Commemoration Evening, Hillstown Orange Hall, Randalstown
• Thursday 30th April
1859 Revival Commemoration Evening, Ferniskey Orange Hall, Ballymena
• Sunday 17th May
Willowfield Parish Church, Belfast
• Sunday 24th May
Brooklands Gospel Centre, Dundonald
• Sunday 23rd August
Killaughey Mission Hall
• Monday 24th August
Millisle Baptist Church mission week (with the Calvary Quartet)
• Sunday 20th September
Brooklands Gospel Centre, Dundonald
• Sunday 27th September
Iron Hall, Belfast
• Sunday 4th October
Larne Mission Hall
• Friday 9th October
Coleraine Town Hall with William Sayers, Soul Purpose (Portglenone) and Mwamba Children's Choir (Uganda). Compère William Knox
• Saturday 10th October
Bangor Abbey, Ulster-Scots Evening with the Michelle Johnston Highland Dancers
• Sunday 18th October
Willowfield Parish Church, Belfast - 10am service
• Friday 13th November
Crossgar Ulster Praise Night; Crossgar War Memorial Hall, 8pm with Crossgar Young Defenders, Raffrey Pipe Band, Tamlaughtmore Silver Band and Carryduff Accordion Band
• Saturday 14th November
Carryduff Presbyterian Church Ulster-Scots Night with Risin' Stour, the Clan Davidson Highland Dancers, and compere Norman McBriar. Ticket only; for details contact Hugh Munro on 028 9081 2361
• Friday 20th November
Killelagh COI concert event; Killygullib Orange Hall; 8pm Country, Gospel and Ulster-Scots concert (with Kenny Archer, Jacqueline Prentice, Quinn Memorial Pipe Band, Killymuck Accordion Band) Ticket only; for details contact John Lynd on 07837 623656
• Saturday 21st November
Uganda Praise event, St James' Parish Church Hall, Moore Street, Aughnacloy. With Pride of The Birches Accordion Band and Clover Watt. For further details contact William Price: 07709053447
• Sunday 29th November
Ballykeel Presbyterian Church, Ballymena - special early evening service beginning at 5.30pm
• Monday 30th November
Castlereagh Borough Council St Andrew's Night Castlereagh Civic Centre, 6pm - 10pm
• Saturday 5th December
Newtownards Baptist Church with the Calvary Quartet
• Sunday 6th December
Maranatha Mission Hall, Carrowdore
• Sunday 20th December
Carryduff Gospel Hall
Previous dates in 2008:
• Sunday 26 July
Brooklands Gospel Centre, Dundonald
• Sunday 4 October
Maranatha Hall, Carrowdore
• Saturday 11 October
Bangor Abbey Ulster-Scots Night
• Saturday 6 December
Maranatha Hall, Carrowdore
• Sunday 7 December
Branagh Memorial Church, Belfast
• Tuesday 23 December
Private function, Bushmills, Co Antrim
• Sunday 28 December
Maranatha Hall, Carrowdore


text:
Most of us discover how difficult it is to start a campfire the first time we attempt one, then we discover that it's equally difficult to keep it going. That's why I've decided to share a few tips to help new campers, who'd like to impress their buddies with their campfire building skills. These tips have always done the trick for me, and I'm convinced that they'll work for you too.
Clear An Area To Build Your Fire
For safety reasons, you first need to clear the area of any loose leaves or other flammables that could catch fire because of an errant ember. You'll need to screen the area from the wind, and plan to build it away from trees, tents, and anything else that could catch fire. Only once you're certain that your area is free of debris will you be ready to start building your campfire.
Your goal at this point is to prevent your fire from wandering. Collect some flat stones, and build a ring about 6 inches high and 3 inches away from the center of your fire. When you build the ring, ensure that you allow enough gaps to allow air flow into the fire.
Collect Combustible Materials
You'll need a good supply of dry, combustibles such as twigs and branches. Look for ones that snap easily, indicating that they are dry. Gather as many as you can find in the immediate area. Also collect any tinder, like small twigs or paper.
Tinder is less rigid than firewood, but more combustible. Building a fire with tinder will make it easier to get your firewood to light up. Even though you may be tempted, never use gasoline to start a campfire.
Use Good Campfire Building Techniques
You'll be much more successful if you follow proper campfire building techniques. Place your tinder in the center of the fire pit, and then arrange your smaller firewood over it in a crisscross pattern. Layer larger pieces of firewood in as you build the foundation.
Start the tinder on fire with a lighter or a match. If it doesn't start spreading immediately, add additional tender until it begins to grow. Only after your smaller firewood has caught fire, add larger logs to build the fire up.
Enjoy some good times with your buddies, but always keep safety in the forefront of your mind. Always fully extinguish your campfire when you are finished with it.


text:
Loud calls from the RBI to resist fiscal expansion have not stopped the government from discussing a postponement of deficit goalposts, thereby allowing higher spending to stimulate the economy.
Ahead of the Union Budget to be unveiled February 29, the idea whether the government should stay wedded to the deficit reduction plan or loosen its purse strings to boost investment and economic activity, is being debated at the level of the Prime Minister's Office, a senior official said.
In 2015-16, the government aims to keep fiscal deficit at 3.9 per cent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP), or Rs 5.5 lakh crore, of which Rs 4.5 lakh crore will be spent on paying interest on loans taken to finance this deficit. For 2016-17, the target is to reduce deficit further to 3.5 per cent.
With persisting weakness in private investment, leading economists, including Finance Ministry's Chief Economic Adviser Arvind Subramanian, have suggested the need for accelerated public investment and reassessment of the fiscal deficit goals. Higher public investment financed through loans would boost economic growth, kick-start private investment and reap dividends in future years, they say.
On the other side of the divide are economists led by RBI Governor Raghuram Rajan who last week argued that higher government spending can jeopardise macro-economic stability and hurt the country's debt dynamics. On Saturday, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said it was the first time he had come across sharply divided views on reworking the fiscal consolidation plan.
Citing Brazil's experience of using massive public stimulus only to witness its economy shrinking in later years, Rajan said the enormous costs of becoming an unstable country far outweigh any small growth benefits that can be obtained through aggressive policies.
"Deviating from the fiscal consolidation path could push up government bond yields, both because of the greater volume of bonds to be financed and because of the potential loss of government credibility on future consolidation," Rajan said.
Axis Bank Chief Economist Saugata Bhattacharya said the government should step up capital expenditure but without raising extra debt.
"Fiscal consolidation, in principle, is inviolable. The key question is, can government permit a slight slippage for a year or two? My view is that adhering to the announced path is preferable. Yes, the government might need to spend more on capex (capital expenditure) at the present moment, if private sector risk appetite is low," Bhattacharya said.
"But the only way to meet these two conflicting objectives is through exploring greater and innovative monetisation of government assets, without resorting to expanded borrowings, resulting in a debt build-up," he said.
The government should step up capital expenditure but the fiscal deficit should not be allowed to increase, as this would put pressure on interest rates, which have just started to soften, CII president Sumit Mazumder said.
Instead, the government should raise revenue by higher disinvestment, lower subsidy outgo, staggering pay commission pay outs and increasing tax revenue through expansion of base, he said.
The government expenditure is set to rise sharply in the next financial year on account of implementation of the Seventh Pay Commission award and One Rank One Pension (OROP).
In addition to Rs 8000-10000 crore that would be needed for OROP as per government estimates, the Centre's salary bill would increase by Rs 1.02 lakh crore in 2016-17 if the Seventh Pay Commission's 23.55 per cent hike in pay, allowances and pensions of government employees is fully implemented from January 1.
The Finance Minister will have to balance the expenses on higher salaries and pensions with the need to step up spending on social sector and infrastructure projects. With the stock of stalled projects estimated by the government at Rs 8.8 lakh crore or 7 per cent of GDP, the Budget for next year is expected to announce steps to improve the public private partnership (PPP) model for the infra sector.
In its report submitted to the government last November, a panel headed by former Finance Secretary Vijay Kelkar on reviving the PPP model suggested easier funding for projects with long gestation period, review of the model concession agreements, raising of funds through zero coupon bonds and setting up of independent regulators.
On the corporate tax side, the government would move to trim exemptions and reduce tax rate for companies in line with Jaitley's announcement in the last budget to pare it to 25 per cent from 30 per cent in four years. Industry chamber CII has suggested that the government announce a year-wise roadmap for reduction of corporate tax rate to 23 per cent.
With regard to personal income tax, the Finance Minister is expected to keep the slabs and rates unchanged, while announcing higher incentives to boost savings. Bankers and industrialists, in pre-budget meetings with Jaitley, argued for raising tax-exempt savings limit to Rs 2.5 lakh per year from Rs 1.5 lakh per annum currently.
While the challenge of reducing fiscal deficit to 3.5 per cent seems more pronounced in the next year, for the current financial year the government seems on course to meet its deficit goals.
While the government will fall short of expected inflows from disinvestment and direct taxes, it would compensate from higher indirect tax collections, extra dividend from state-owned companies and savings in expenditure by some ministries.
"Even as low disinvestment inflows relative to the budgeted level remain a risk, the probability of a slippage relative to the absolute fiscal deficit target of Rs 5.6 lakh crore in 2015-16 (Budget Estimates) appears muted," said Aditi Nayar, Senior Economist at rating agency ICRA Limited.
The government has so far raised Rs 13,500 crore through disinvestment in PSU companies, far short of the Rs 69,000 crore target for the entire fiscal.
The government expects its full year direct tax collections to fall short of the budget target by Rs 30,000-40,000 crore. The government had set a direct tax collection target of Rs 7.97 lakh crore this fiscal, up 26.5 per cent from Rs 6.30 lakh crore in financial year 2014-15.
On the indirect tax side, the government is set to receive a bonanza on account of higher excise collections of around Rs 1.5 lakh crore in 2015-16 on petrol and diesel.


text:
There are certain people that I enjoy being around more than others. Without fail, if asked to describe them, one word that would come up repeatedly would be kind.
I'm trying to teach my children to be the best people they can be. More often than not, I find myself saying to them, 'Please be kind to one another.'
Last week, a video emerged of a young boy. About the age of one of my sons, he was being carried out of a pile of rubble (presumably his house), shocked into numbness.
His face shows no panic or pain, despite the chaos around him and the blood flowing down his face from his head wound.
His completely neutral expression as he sits still in the ambulance is one of the most upsetting sights I can remember ever having seen.
And I found out this morning that his older brother has since died.
I understand the whole world doesn't agree on everything, and that has led to conflict. But as I see images and stories revealing the true horrors of those conflicts' results, I'm ever more convinced that building walls and attacking those who are somewhat unlike me doesn't make the world a safer place.
Put simply, I wish that the world was kinder to each other.
I feel indescribably helpless when it comes to the Middle East – I have too little knowledge, and too little influence. But what I know is that I can be kind to those who are in my life, and pray that others will do the same.
Who wants to join me?
The Bible tells us that one of the fruit of the Spirit is kindness. In other words: if I try to be kind, I will fail. But if I look to God for everything, kindness will grow naturally.
Please gather with us on Sunday, to receive from God and to practice kindness to one another and the whole borough!


text:
Welcome to Napa
Downtown Napa offers phenomenal restaurants, farmers markets, boutique shopping, and plenty of wine-tasting rooms.
Old Town Napa features charming cottages, bungalows, Victorians, and Queen Anne homes. The development of the riverfront, along with a riverbank promenade, signaled the renaissance of Napa's downtown. Where the Napa River makes a bend through the city, you'll find Oxbow Public Market in downtown Napa's Oxbow District. Every Tuesday night, the merchants celebrate Locals' Night, sponsoring live music, wine tastings, and face painting for kids.
Venture a few miles outside of the city and you will be in farm country, surrounded by vineyards and horse stables. On Redwood Road, The Hess Collection includes a gallery of museum-quality modern art featuring works by Robert Motherwell, Anselm Keifer, and Francis Bacon.
Built in 1879, the Napa Valley Opera House building was restored in 2003 to its former glory. Throughout the summer, Veterans Memorial Park Amphitheater hosts Napa City Nights, a slate of concerts spanning a variety of genres. And for the past few years, Napa has hosted Bottle Rock, a three-day music festival that books big-name acts.
While there are plenty of restaurants run by celebrity chefs in Napa, locals in search of a relaxed dinner head for Norman Rose Tavern to get classic American comfort food, burgers, and brews.


text: Entertainment 'Paddington' movie is unbearably charming "Paddington" comes to life. Photo Credit: The Weinstein Company By SCOTT A.. ROSENBERG email@example.com January 15, 2015 3:55 PM Print Share fbShare Tweet Email In terms of movies with talking CGI animals, "Paddington" might just be the "Citizen Kane" of the genre. Adapted from the beloved "Paddington Bear" children's book series created by Michael Bond and illustrated by Peggy Fortnum, this unbearably (sorry) charming film brings the classic British character to the big screen with energy and humor, not to mention some stylistic filmmaking -- clever angles, fun little effects and a cool newsreel-style opening. Speaking of which: The film begins in the jungles of darkest Peru, where an explorer finds a couple of bears that aren't just intelligent, but can speak. It's an amazing discovery, and he spends time teaching them and introducing them to marmalade. He gives them English names and even his hat. He leaves and the bears continue to live their fine British life in the jungle, raising their nephew (voiced by Ben Whishaw). After a devastating disaster to their home, the young bear's aunt sneaks him onto a ship to England to find a new home with the explorer. He arrives in England and is stranded in Paddington Station until he is taken in by the Brown family and given his very own English name. The well-mannered bear gets into a series of mishaps and becomes the target of an evil taxidermist (Nicole Kidman). "Paddington" follows some of the familiar tropes of the fish out of water, or a better analogy being bear out of jungle. But this superb family film shines with a smart script and strong cast, including Hugh Bonneville ("Downton Abbey") as the stuffy Mr. Brown and Sally Hawkins ("Blue Jasmine") as the loving, wide-eyed Mrs. Brown. There's also some fine guest spots from Peter Capaldi, Julie Walters and Jim Broadbent. By SCOTT A.. ROSENBERG firstname.lastname@example.com Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Comments We're revamping our Comments section. Learn more and share your input.


text:
A poet who runs a small press once said in a room full of aspiring poets, "I try not to make money on any of these projects. If I make any money, I put it back into the next chapbook. I don't want to make money. If anything, I want to lose it."
Some of us laughed and later in the q&a, a woman in the audience assured him that he could in fact make money on these books. What he needed, perhaps, was a little marketing expertise, and some focused efforts on promotion. The poet listened and nodded and thanked her for her comment. But there were several of us in that room who were pretty certain she had missed the point completely.
I am reading Richard Hugo's collection of essays on writing, The Triggering Town. In the final essay, called "How Poets Make a Living," he tells a story from his time working at Boeing. Discovering a man and his wife squatting on Boeing land, the company takes actions to remove them. The man in anger and fear, writes long letters to Boeing, in which he does not so much protest the eviction, as chastise the corporation for its ignorance and privilege. He says:
"This country was built for more than one man to enjoy….You may be making millions of dollars but there will be a day when you won't be. I am still suffering from some of your dirty work. I know kind of man you are and the rest of your so-called class."
And later, in postscript, "The Admiral," as he comes to be known, writes:
"When a man is in the middle of the road I can give a man a drink of water and feed a man. I have done. I only lost homes in my lifetime. These rabbit hutches I'm taking with me and other planks that is loose and lumber. I will have to unbolt the planks to the rabbit house unless you give me a good price for them like you said this afternoon. That money will go to my mother."
In the years after graduate school, during which I followed a particular kind of career path and wrote little, I thought I had given up on writing (or that writing had given up on me). That had I been good enough, or dedicated enough, I would be able to write perfectly-formed pieces and the writing life would unroll its carpeted pathway for me to follow. That if I were talented enough, it would all come together and that success in a writing life would mean I would make my living through my writing.
I no longer pretend to know what success – in a writing life or elsewhere – truly means. Back now, in another graduate program nearly twenty years after I began the first, I take comfort in the idea that in a writing life, there can be silences. There are ebbs and flows, and if the arc of life is long, one can imagine – rather than straight lines – undulating waves.
In telling the story, and in discussing the poem that this incident prompted, Hugo attempts to answer the question, "How do poets make a living?" He talks about his time at Boeing and his current position, teaching at a university. He says:
"I suppose I haven't done anything but demonstrated how I came to write a poem, shown what turns me on, or used to, and how, at least for me, what does turn me on lies in a region of myself that could not be changed by the nature of my employment. But it seems important (to me even gratifying) that the same region lies untouched and unchanged in a lot of people, and in my innocent way I wonder if it is a reason for hope. Hope for what? I don't know. Maybe hope that humanity will always survive civilization."
Hugo goes on:
"But no job accounts for the impulse to find and order those bits and pieces of yourself that can come out only in the most unguarded moments, in the wildest, most primitive phrases we shout alone at the mirror. And no job modifies that impulse or destroys it. In a way, The Admiral speaks for all poets, maybe for all people, at least a lot of us. We won't all disappear on a remote country road in the Monroe Valley, but like The Admiral and his wife we are all going into the dark. Some of us hope that before we do we have been honest enough to scream back at the fates. Or if we never did it ourselves, that someone, derelict or poet, did it for us once in some euphonic way our inadequate capacity for love did not deny our hearing."


text:
From the founder of Salinas Valley Comic Con comes a NEW and BIGGER pop culture event for California's Central Coast.
Central Coast Pop Expo (#CCPE) was created for fans by fans. From comics to movies, collectibles and animation, #CCPE will have something for pop culture fans of all ages!
Central Coast Pop Expo's mission is to create a community atmosphere that fosters creativity and imagination through a love of pop culture.
When is CENTRAL COAST POP EXPO?
February 10-12, 2017.
Friday, Feb. 10th is Opening Night Nerdy Gras. The Expo floor officially opens to the general public on Saturday, February 11th, at 10:00 AM.
Is this a Comic Con?
Yes it is and so much more. Central Coast Pop Expo covers all areas of pop culture — comics, movies, television, gaming, cosplay and more! Our goal is to bring together a weekend of experiences that will inspire and entertain fans across all areas of pop culture.
Who created this event?
Jesse Banda brought the Salinas Valley Comic Con to Salinas as founder and former director. He left the National Steinbeck Center following SVCC 2015 in order to start his own company. One of his major goals for 2017 is to create an event for all pop culture fans from Salinas and beyond!
The co-creators and directors of the event are Ji Jun (HyperGeeky) and Nicholas Black (Current Comics). Both had a hand in assisting Jesse with SVCC 2015, and they're ready to bring you a great show. You can catch the three of them on their Oh My Geek! podcast.
What is happening on February 10th?
Opening Night Nerdy Gras will be a very special evening as we honor the first recepient of the Pop Expo ICON Award. This award will be given to a person who has made a major impact on the world of pop culture.
An exclusive Q&A will be held with the recipient, and then we'll cap off our special opening night ceremonies with a special auction to benefit the Children's Miracle Network.
In between ceremonies attendees will be able to mingle with fellow pop culture fans during our Nerdy Gras celebration. Sorry, there will be no beads tossed. All ages are welcome.
How do I get a ticket for Nerdy Gras?
Tickets for Nerdy Gras come free with your paid admission. After purchasing your #CCPE17 pass, you will be given the option to add it at no additional charge. Tickets for this event will be limited due to capacity. All ages are welcome.
Where can I buy passes for Central Coast Pop Expo?
Passes are only available for purchase on our Eventbrite ticket page or official Facebook page. Passes purchased via any other site, or persons, are unauthorized and may be counterfeit.
Can I purchase passes at the event?
Should tickets still be available, there will be an opportunity to purchase them on site at the box office at Sherwood Hall. We advise buying your passes in advance.
Are there any discounts available?
Yes. We offer discounts to members of the military (active and retired), emergency service workers (police, firefighters, paramedics, EMT, nurses, doctors) and students. Please be prepared to show your work, military or student I.D. when picking up your discount passes.
What are the hours for the vendor/exhibitor floor?
10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Saturday and Sunday)
VIP Pass holders can access the vendor/exhibitor floor at 9:30 AM both days.
Will you be mailing out passes?
No. After you have purchased your tickets online, a barcode will be emailed to you. This barcode will be required to pick up your passes. Please note that the barcode is unique to each pass. Once it has been scanned, it will no longer be valid.
Can I pick up my badge before the event?
Will this event sell out?
It's possible. We must adhere to capacity limits set by the venue, which is why we recommend attendees buy their passes in advance.
What if I lose my ticket or pass?
Should you lose your email with your unique barcode, please contact us at email@example.com.
If you lose your physical pass, please visit our check-in booth on site. You will be charged the full face value of the lost pass (including service charges) for a replacement.
Can I get a refund?
Yes. Refunds are available through the Eventbrite site but only for a limited time.
Can I leave and come back?
Of course! Once you've checked in, you are free to move in and out for the day.
Will there be a masquerade or cosplay contest? If so, where can I sign-up?
The masquerade contest will be held as our last event on Saturday, February 11th. Details about the contest, including categories and judges, will be announced before the show. Stay tuned and check out omgeekshow.com for more details.
What are your rules regarding costumes?
Our cosplay guidelines will be provided when we announce the cosplay contest information.
What is your harassment policy?
We will be enforcing a strict code of conduct to maintain a safe environment. The terms of this policy will be provided to you upon the purchase of your pass. Those caught violating the policy may be asked to leave Central Coast Pop Expo, and no refund will be issued.
Can I take pictures or video at the show?
Yes, but please be considerate. Some people may not be comfortable getting their picture taken, so please ask. Try to be respectful of others in regards to how and where you take your pictures. Additionally, some of the vendors and artists may not want you to take pictures of their materials. Again, it doesn't hurt to ask first.
Can I bring in food or drinks?
Outside food and drinks are not allowed.
Are pets allowed?
Only licensed service animals will be allowed into the Expo.
What's with the superhero otter?
"Pop" the otter is the guardian of pop culture on California's Central Coast.
Is there parking available?
There is limited parking available at Sherwood Hall. We will be making announcements about parking locations and complimentary shuttle service in a future update. Please stay tuned to our social media sites and the omgeekshow.com website.
Is Central Coast Pop Expo handicap accessible?
Yes. Sherwood Hall is handicap accessible.
Can I volunteer?
Absolutely! Please fill out the submission form at the following link: Volunteer Submission Form
Are there hotels near the event I can stay in?
Am I allowed to use the dark side of the Force?
All Force users are welcome. However, we ask that you keep lightsabers deactivated. Any use of Force lightning will be grounds for immediate expulsion.
Where can I keep up with the latest news on Central Coast Pop Expo?
I am interested in getting a vendor booth. How do I do that?
Please click on this link to submit a vendor inquiry. If you have previously submitted an inquiry, we will be in touch with you soon.
Are media passes available?
Members of the media wishing to attend Central Coast Pop Expo are asked to fill out the document at this link: Media Pass Inquiry.
A member of the CCPE team will contact you should you be approved. Please be prepared to submit credentials upon request. Media passes are non-transferable.


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Online Dance Lessons
Duet's online dance lessons allow you to learn to dance from the comfort of your home. Ballroom, Latin and wedding dance lessons are available!
Online Dance Lessons
Welcome to Duet Dance Studio's Online Dance Lessons! Now you can learn to dance from anywhere in the world with our Online Video Dance Programs, Custom Wedding Dance Choreography and Skype Dance Lessons. Duet Dance is an award-winning ballroom dance studio that specializes in Ballroom, Latin and Wedding dance instruction. While our dance studio is located in Chicago, IL, United States, we are excited to share our expertise with people around the world through our online dance lessons. Thanks to the World Wide Web! Dances we teach include Waltz, Tango, Foxtrot, Swing, Salsa, Bachata, Hip Hop and more. Whether you are dancing for fun, weddings or special occasions, we can customize your dancing experience to match your needs and goals. Check out our options below and get started!
Online WEdding Dance Video Instruction
We've worked with hundreds of couples for the past few years and recently received "The Hall of Fame" status from The Knot Best of Weddings. The goal for our Complete Online Wedding Dance Program for Beginners is to make you feel confident dancing at your wedding by teaching you dance moves that are achievable and fun. With our step-by-step, easy to follow video instruction, you and your future husband or wife can learn to dance at the comfort of your home. You can begin the online wedding dance lessons at anytime and learn at your own pace. By the end of the program, you will be able to use what you've learned to create your special first dance. Learning to dance with your special person is a fun and romantic way to spend time together. The experience dancing for the first time as a married couple will be one of the most magical moments at your wedding. And the benefits of learning to dance extend beyond your wedding as you'll be able to dance together for the rest of your lives.
Sign up now and start your happily ever after today!
Already a member? Log in here
Private Skype Dance LessonS
Custom Dance Choreography
In our private Skype dance lessons, whether you are learning to dance for fun or a special occasion, we will customize your lessons to meet your needs and goals. Get started by scheduling your first lesson below! The intro lesson is 45 minutes long and it is $55. The regular rates range from $70 to $85 for 45 minutes depending how many sessions you purchase at a time. The lesson is for 1 to 2 people. You will receive personalized instruction from one of our instructors.
Do you have a unique first dance song or a mash-up? Or do you want to surprise your guests with a fun father-daughter dance or wedding party dance? Simply send us your dance song and ideas, our team will be happy to choreograph and produce a video dance instruction just for you. We can teach you a variety of dance styles including Waltz, Tango, Swing, Salsa, Bachata and even Hip Hop! We would also be happy to create a personalized package that accommodates your specific needs.


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Fridays on CBR mean Axel's In Charge.
Welcome to MARVEL A-I-C: AXEL-IN-CHARGE, CBR's regular interview feature with Marvel Comics Editor-in-Chief Axel Alonso!
An editor with years of experience who's overseen both critically acclaimed and best-selling comics, Alonso stepped into the spot of Marvel's editorial department in early 2011, and has since worked to bring his signature stylings to the entire Marvel U. Anchored by regular question and answer rounds with the denizens of the CBR Message Boards, each week Alonso will shake things up with special guest stars, exclusive art reveals and more!
This week, following the high-profile debut of "Ms. Marvel" #1, Alonso talks in-depth about Marvel's efforts to increase female representation -- both creators and characters -- at the company, and what kind of work he sees left to be done. Also, Alonso discusses the recent "All-New Marvel NOW!" sellouts and second printings, why Simon Spurrier and Rock-he Kim's new series is the right "X-Force" for right now and answers your questions on Shang-Chi, Spider-Woman and Spider-Man 2099.
Albert Ching: Axel, wanted to start by piggybacking on the Washington Post article that ran last week, inspired by the release of "Ms. Marvel" #1 and featuring comments from you about female characters and creators. In that piece, it's clear that it's definitely a priority for you to have more positive female representation -- Marvel has certainly had female-led titles and female creators in the past, but right now it seems like more of an acknowledged priority. At what point did you recognize that it was something that Marvel had to address in a more concentrated and deliberate fashion?
Axel Alonso: Our antenna went up about three years ago, when, after a good run, we were forced to cancel "X-23," and we realized we were left without a title whose lead character was the title of the book. Valkyrie played the lead in "Fear Itself: The Fearless," and there were a lot of prominent female X-Men characters, but still, this was a problem, and we were resolved to fix it. So it was probably in the backs of editors' minds when they were putting together pitches for the All-New Marvel NOW! campaign.
At Marvel, it seems that female-led titles have historically been something of a hard sell, like in the case of "X-23" -- it may not be anything that's wrong with the character or the creative team, but the numbers aren't there. How much more attention or focus does Marvel look to give going forward to these titles, to try and give them as fair of a shot as they can get?
Alonso: Quite frankly, I don't think female characters are a hard sell; any new launch requires utmost execution to stick, whether it features a female character, a male character or team of characters. The challenge in launching a series featuring a female lead is that very few of them have the built-in Q-rating of a perennial character -- like Spider-Man, Captain America or Hulk -- and the market is, of course, largely dominated by perennial characters. In that sense, it's the same challenge whether you're launching "Elektra" or "Moon Knight," "She-Hulk" or "Red Hulk." There're lots of vocal fans for all those characters, but you have to appeal to a larger audience. That said, "Black Widow" #1, #2 and #3 have all gone to second prints, so if you build a quality book that gets some buzz, you might be building a perennial.
MORE ON "BLACK WIDOW": Edmondson & Noto Guide The "Black Widow's" Quest For Atonement
Beyond female characters, female creators were also mentioned as a priority for Marvel -- which can currently be seen in both writers and artists, and Marvel has strong female representation in the editorial staff, as well. Is that a matter of specific recruitment? How do you approach the task of bringing in more female creators to Marvel?
Alonso: Marvel's editors entertain pitches from all qualified candidates. We're looking for the best material from any and all writers. So yes, we reached out to certain female creators, one female creator had to decline pitching for a series she really wanted to write due to a schedule conflict, and there were female creators who pitched and didn't get the job because we liked another pitch more.
At the end of the day, it's about putting together a comic book that has something to say, that entertains, that offers something unique. And I think we've done just that with "She-Hulk," "Ms. Marvel" and "Black Widow," as well as the upcoming "Captain Marvel" and "Elektra." I'm very excited about "Elektra." Tonally and aesthetically, what Haden [Blackman] and Mike Del Mundo are doing evokes [Frank] Miller and [Bill] Sienkiewicz's "Elektra Assassin."
MORE ON "CAPTAIN MARVEL": DeConnick Deploys "Captain Marvel" on an Outer-Space Journey of Self-Discovery
Given that, when you look at how things are now, do you think there's still a lot of work to do in getting things to where you want them to be, in terms of female representation?
Alonso: I think so. There's always room for improvement, in every layer of what we do, including representation. This medium -- this industry -- has, like society itself, evolved over time. Back in the '40s, '50s and '60s, comics were strictly entertainment for boys, written by men -- all largely white. That changed over the next couple decades, as comics evolved to include broader subject matter, and the demographics of who made them and read them started to change, but it happened slowly.
When I started in this industry at Vertigo back in '94, Neil Gaiman's "Sandman" was pretty much unique in its appeal to female readers, many of whom discovered the medium because of the series. So to be here now, surveying a line that includes seven titles featuring female leads, with two more in development, is very exciting. Distribution was a major factor in how we got here, and it will continue to factor into how evolve as a medium and an industry. Just like trade paperback penetration of bookstores helped us grow a more diverse readership, so too will digital comics diversify who's writing them, drawing them and reading them.
Based on what's been released, it definitely appears that Marvel is doing something right with new launches -- there was a report earlier this week that the comiXology digital sales charts had "Ms. Marvel" #1 at No. 1 within Marvel, and No. 2 overall. There's word pretty much as soon as a new Marvel title debuts that there are sellouts and second printings on the way. While there's something of a debate among observers as to how meaningful a "sellout" is, what do these reports mean to you?
Alonso: I'm not quite sure what's to be "debated" about second prints. A second print means the demand for the book exceeded what was ordered. And the wild number of second prints for All-New Marvel NOW! series -- and not just for first issues -- shows most of them were under-ordered. Why we they under-ordered? I don't know. But I hope retailers pay attention to that sales trend.
Why did they sell out? Part of that comes down to quality, and part of it comes down to diversity. This week's launches -- "Winter Soldier," "X-Force" and "She-Hulk" -- are all exciting for very different reasons. The stories they tell, the way they feel on the page, reminds me of grabbing comic book off the rack at the five-and-dime when I was a kid, and each book offered its own mini-universe.
Speaking of which, wanted to ask about the new "X-Force" -- it's the third version of X-Force that Marvel has unveiled recently, with the two previous titles, "Cable and X-Force" and "Uncanny X-Force" running concurrently and this one spinning out of them. What is it about this take on "X-Force," by Simon Spurrier and Rock-he Kim, that made it the right one going forward?
Alonso: "X-Force" #1 represents, at least in part, a return to the mission statement of the team when it was launched by Craig Kyle, Chris Yost and Clayton Crain after "Messiah CompleX." I say "at least in part" because Si brings an additional twist. Si has something different to say. This is a team whose mandate is different from any other mutant team on earth, a black bag unit that doesn't wait for anyone's approval to do what needs to be done, and Cable does a good job of summing up its mission statement in the first issue. Readers will debate the ethics and morality of the team, kind of like people debated the means to an end used by the intelligence officers in "Zero Dark Thirty." What are these mutants willing to do to get the job done, and was it worth doing to get that job done? And the book looks incredible. The level of detail Rock-he brings to the page reminds me of Clayton Crain. "X-Force" doesn't look like anything else on the stands.
MORE ON X-FORCE: Spurrier Winds Down "X-Men Legacy," Prepares "X-Force"
Turning to questions from the CBR forums, the ever-reliable Spidey616 asks about something also teased by Steve Wacker in this week's "Superior Spider-Man" letter column: "Spider-Man 2099 is set to play a role in 'Goblin Nation,' but any specific Spidey 2099 minis or projects down the pipeline you can tease?"
Alonso: All we can say is Miguel O'Hara won't be going back to his own time any time soon. So he's bound to find some kind of trouble sooner or later... possibly even this summer.
Next one comes from Jessica Drew devotee Drew@616, who inquires, "Now that 'Avengers Assemble' will finish in March Is there anything Spider-Woman fans should get excited for in 2014?"
Alonso: Spider-Woman will be a regular player in the new iteration of "Secret Avengers," and she plays a big role in the Spidey world in 2014 thanks to Dan Slott and company.
Last one is from shellhead85, timely given this week's announcement of a new "Deadly Hands of Kung Fu" miniseries by writer Mike Benson and artist Tan Eng Huat: "Could you update us on the status of reprinting the Shang-Chi series? I know there have been issues with trademarks, but with 'Miracleman' taken care of (thanks by the way!), could Shang-Chi be next?"
Alonso: Those original Shang-Chi stories were created when Marvel had license to use certain characters from the famous Sax Rohmer pulp novels. Unfortunately, that is a license Marvel no longer possesses so there are currently no plans to reprint that material. Sorry, shellhead. But Shang-Chi, one of my all-time favorite characters lives on. This May, "Deadly Hands of Kung Fu" #1 hits the stands. It stars Shang-Chi, and features the Sons of the Tiger, the Daughters of the Dragon and a few more familiar faces -- cough, Cap -- and it's like a martial arts flick with a heavy dose of Jason Bourne-type espionage. It's written by Mike Benson -- who wrote "Deadpool: Suicide Kings," "Deadpool Noir," and numerous TV shows, including early seasons of "Entourage" -- and illustrated by the amazing Tan Eng Huat.
Have some questions for Marvel's AXEL-IN-CHARGE? Please visit the CUP O' Q&A thread in CBR's Marvel Universe forum. It's now the dedicated thread for all connections between Board Members and the Marvel Executive staff that CBR will pull questions for next week's installment of our weekly fan-generated question-and-answer column! Do it to it!


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A Pained Life: Depression is Allowed/
By Carol Levy, Columnist
"You're depressed."
Friends say it. Family may say it. Sometimes doctors say it.
Well, duh. We live with pain for much of the day or all day long. It is hard not to be depressed!
Our lives have been changed in ways we never could have imagined. Pain is the boundary by which we live. Can I do this, go there, be with people, or work?
Pain is often the arbiter. I want to do something, but the pain tells me I can't.
How depressing. How sad.
Does that then mean we are psychiatrically ill? Does it mean that the pain is, as many of us have been told, "All in your head?"
I won't deny that for some patients the pain is psychosomatic or has a large psychological and emotional component. But for most of us the diagnosis is firm, the pain real and physical.
Interestingly and sadly however, MedicineNet.com and many other sources include this in their definition and description of what causes depression: "Chronic pain that does not respond to treatment."
And yet when you click the link for "chronic pain" they do not refer to it being psychosomatic or having psychosomatic causes.
How many of us continue with treatments, procedures, and surgeries despite a lack of benefit? Does that automatically translate into psychogenic origin?
The questions arise. Did depression cause my pain? Would my illness not have appeared if I wasn't depressed? Is that answerable? Would an answer matter?
What I do know is that depression carries with it not only a feeling of persistent sadness, but feelings of hopelessness and helplessness.
And how can we not feel hopeless, and helpless, when at one time or another most of us hear these kinds of statements from our doctors:
"There is no cure. You'll have to learn to live with it."
"I don't have an answer for why you have the pain you do."
"There is nothing left to try."
I remember being upset the first time I was prescribed an antidepressant. My doctor had to reassure me, "No, Carol. These drugs can work on the pain. I am not giving it to you because I doubt your pain is real."
Whether we have depression arising from pain or depression causing our pain to appear, it is worth trying to deal with it, through counseling and maybe medication too.
I often hear people with chronic pain ask if their shortness of breath, weakness, insomnia, etc. could be related to the fibromyalgia, back pain, neuropathy or whatever condition they suffer from. It is easy to think that all our physical changes and complaints come from our diagnosed illnesses. It is harder to see past what we know we have.
I think the same is true for depression. Even if we get relief from pain, the depression may still be there.
It is incumbent on doctors -- and us -- to accept that a psychological issue and diagnosis may exist separate and distinct from our chronic pain.
It is important that our psychological state be seen as equally important, worthy, and possibly separate from our chronic pain. And we need to allow ourselves the acceptance of a dual diagnosis, even if it is a psychological one.
Carol Jay Levy has lived with trigeminal neuralgia, a chronic facial pain disorder, for over 30 years. She is the author of "A Pained Life, A Chronic Pain Journey."
Carol is the moderator of the Facebook support group "Women in Pain Awareness." Her blog "The Pained Life" can be found here.
The information in this column should not be considered as professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It is for informational purposes only and represent the author's opinions alone. It does not inherently express or reflect the views, opinions and/or positions of Pain News Network.


text: BMW announced today at SXSW that it's teaming up with Stitcher to integrate the popular iPhone app's on-demand streaming functionality into vehicles equipped with the BMW Apps and Mini Connected technologies. We ran into BMW's Robert Passaro in the halls of Austin's Convention Center and he was kind enough to give us an exclusive demo of Stitcher inside a lovely BMW 650i convertible ahead of today's launch. Most of the iPhone app's features are available using the vehicle's infotainment system, including the ability to search, provide feedback ("More Like This" and "Listeners Also Like"), and create / remove custom stations -- album art is even displayed in high-resolution alongside show information. Take a look at our gallery below, then watch us tune Stitcher into the Engadget Mobile Podcast right from the BMW's center console in our hands-on video after the break.


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Everything I needed to know about the church I learned at Taylor University.
October 17, 2008
Last weekend, I missed my ten year reunion at Taylor University. The following article is published in the Fall 2008 issue of Metanoia, an admissions publication for Taylor. In the article, I reflect that when I was a student at... Read more →


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Our Causes
Harlem is Home. It's a community that I've seen have some good times and some bad ones, but it is a place that I always considered home. Because it is my home, I fee a responsibility to take care of it, and the people in it and do something good for it. I founded Pampered & PINK in the summer of 2014 as a way to provide fun, interactive and educational events for the Harlem Community.
In 2008, my oldest sister, Tswana Lin Saunders, lost her battle with Inflammatory Breast Cancer. This tragic loss, ignited a passion in me to bring awareness and education to the various types of Breast Cancer in and around my community. For years I participated in different walks, and raised money for various organizations, but I never felt like I was doing enough. Waiting for October every year to "do something" was not sitting well with me. Shortly after becoming a Patient Volunteer Education Coordinator for Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in 2013, the idea of Pampered and PINK was birthed. Events that were more than just fundraisers or walks, but would also Provide Information Necessary for Knowledge. Love, Amber Nobles
Donate today and help women & other people in need receive health and wellness care that they need, at no cost to them. 100% of the profits raised through Pampered and PINK Benefit the Breast Examination Center of Harlem. Places like this are vital to the Harlem Community, who help so many women, just like my sister, every year.
Get Involved
If you want to participate in community oriented projects throughout the year, and raise money for a stellar organization in the process, please contact us about becoming a volunteer today. Events Spring Into Wellness Fair, Summertime Beauty Bash, Pampered & PINK, Signature Event, Chemo Care Package Giveaway
The Mission
Our goal here at Pampered & PINK is to provide uplifting and unique events that support women at what can be one of the most challenging and difficult times in their life. Our passion is to help these women win those challenges, and give support in those difficult times.


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Are you aware that the AHA Certification Center is partnering with ASHHRA to offer a special administration of the Certified in Healthcare Human Resources (CHHR) certification examination in San Antonio, TX? Eligible candidates may want to take advantage of this opportunity to earn the nationally recognized CHHR credential. Register early to ensure a seat for the exam.
The CHHR certification exam is based on practical experience and knowledge you may have gained academically as well as on the job. Candidates must meet eligibility requirements fully to sit for the exam. Eligible candidates who receive a passing score on the CHHR certification exam earn the CHHR certification. For more information about the CHHR eligibility requirements, exam content outline and exam administration policy, refer to the CHHR Candidate Handbook.
Examination Date - November 3, 2016
Registration Deadline - October 6, 2016
Norris Conference Center 618 NW Loop 410 San Antonio, TX 78216
Check-in time: 2:30 p.m.Exam start time: 3:00 p.m.NOTE: The exam administration begins after all registered candidates have checked in or 3:00pm, whichever occurs first. Candidates are allowed two hours to complete the exam after administrative matters are completed. Schedule your travel arrangements accordingly.
Exam Fee Exam registration and fees are not included with conference registration or any pre-conference sessions. Exam application and fee must be submitted to AMP (Applied Measurement Professionals, Inc.) as directed on the exam application.
NEW! CHHR Exam ScholarshipYou are a health care human resources professional – it's time to recognize your expertise and get certified through the AHA Certification Center to gain the recognition you deserve! ASHHRA members who apply for a CHHR Scholarship between January 1, 2016, and December 31, 2016, will receive a voucher for the full CHHR exam fee (a $295 value). This is a limited-time, exclusive offer only available to active ASHHRA members who meet the eligibility requirements.
Exam Application
Prepare for the ExamAs you prepare for the exam, keep in mind that ASHHRA offers the following study materials:
Day of the ExamAll policies and procedures as listed in the CHHR Candidate Handbook apply.
Exam Results
For more information


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Sometimes new wonderful pictures come in and they must be added in even after the Blog has ended.
Sometimes new wonderful pictures come in and they must be added in even after the Blog has ended.
As I begin to finish out this August 2013 Wet the Hippo Tour Blog (aka I've almost run out of good pictures), I thought I'd post pictures of each of the amazing people who make this strange and wonderful thing possible.
Alec Jones-Trujillo, Claire Titelman, Gabe Mckinney, John Gilkey (and Morcambe), Michael Lieberman, Natalie Palamides, Scotch Wichmann (and the Van), Tim Reid, Tyler Watson.
For the SF shows, we stayed across the bay in a little cottage in back of a friend's house. We used this location for a really great photo shoot, but first we took this test shot below. A few of the Hippos are missing so we were happy to have some furry stand-ins.
Our friend, Matt Jones, came to the show in San Francisco on Monday and made this amazing drawing that he posted on his Twitter feed. Matt Jones is a story artist at Pixar. Follow him on Twitter @Jonezee99 and at mattjonezanimation.blogspot.com
When you come see us perform, this is exactly what it will look like.
I don't know why but I love these pictures of the Sleeping Hippos. This is just a selection some of the Hippos sleeping on our long van journeys from one place to the next. I can't explain it, but these pictures never cease to entertain me.
Click on the pictures for a larger view.
Here are the last moments of the tour, as we arrived back in Los Angeles to drop people off at their homes. It was a wonderful tour. Look at those legs.
To get to the Undisclosed Location for our San Francisco shows, you were instructed to look for the Skinny Violinist on the corner of 22nd and Valencia. This is what you would have seen.
We finished two spectacular nights performing to full houses in San Francisco, we couldn't have asked for a better ending to the tour.
The final meal before our final San Francisco show.
Butter and Morcambe decided to make a visit.
Hippos in the Median.
This is the lovely little space in SF.
Also a cat lying on top of a display case. And the bathroom with the sofa chair in the venue.
This is Alec in his hometown of Weaverville.
On our way to the SF show.
We just finished a great show at the Creamery Festival in Arcata. They made a lovely poster with some different colors than we're used to seeing.
We picked up this guy just before we reached Arcata.
Big beard in Willits on our way to Arcata.
Hippos eat breakfast at the Waffle cafe in Placervillle.
Copyright Michael Lieberman 2019


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But I really want to help you ....
(image from We<3It)
Okay, synchronicity (or serendipity, or magic, or whatever you call it) seems in full swing today .... you see, when the universe really wants you to think about something, or intimately get to know a particular theme, it will tend to chuck signs at you like no-one else's business.
It started for me this morning, as I sat and meditated*, my mind opening up to the truth that I am digging deep for inside of me, getting a little nutty, a little crazy, a little gritty. Like magic, out popped my child self, grabbing my big adult self by the hand and dragging me into the creative intention I had set myself, and my child self was smiling, giggling, skipping herself out of the mud; my mud. And then I started to realise that only I can get myself out of my mud, but on the flip side I can't get anyone else out of their mud either .....
Next, a conversation later in the day, where the issue of healing and self help arose, and how we can't actually help other's that don't want to be helped. In fact, it was agreed, a little begrudgingly, that I (we) should step back, step back from that incessant desire to stick our noses in, let our opinions be heard, and force our intentions onto others (even if it comes from BIG LOVE). We can only heal ourselves, or work on our own shadow mud pits, other peoples issues are their issues, and they have to choose to work on these issues themselves .... as they say, you can lead a horse to water, but you can't make it drink.
Later tonight, as I sat here catching up on my email subscriptions, I opened the latest newsletter from Danielle LaPorte, and low and behold, the first thing in her newsletter "I stopped trying to heal people…who didn't really want to be healed." An anecdote about her own experiences with the desire to heal others, but the recognition that "if you don't actually want to do the healing work, (change, let go, serve others in the growing) like, what can I do?" Thank you Danielle.
Thank you Universe.
Sometimes we can get so mixed up in what we think makes us a good person .... we think that to be a good person we have to 'save' people, help them help themselves, take control of the situation, be everything to everyone else (and dare I say it, neglect ourselves in the process). STOP!! Let's clear the waters, if you are getting deep down and busy in your own mud, digging up those issues and internal obstacles, really looking at who you are, and working on your own Self, then you are taking the steps to being the best person you can be .... and hey, in that process you become the best you for those around you. Instead of trying to 'fix' others, you find that you can be there for them, non-judgemental like, and just be that hand to hold, or shoulder to cry on on their own journey, through their mud.
So dig in for the long hall with your own self development, and be that good family member, friend, or even stranger, that can be an unconditional support along this journey we call life .... and watch it as the universe starts to flow and starts to grow.
*Have you noticed that when you misspell meditation it often comes out as mediate ... I did that up there in that blog post, and then I had a flash, a lightbulb, isn't meditating a form of mediation, mediation between yourself and your Self (aka the universe or universal consciousness)?
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