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Whew, we've made it 28 Days on this journey. Consciousness: the state of being awake and aware of one's surroundings/the awareness or perception of something by a person. Black Consciousness: awareness of one's identity as a black person, especially as a basis for a political grouping or movement. It's interesting to see how alike, but also… Continue reading #BlackBlogsMatter #BlackConsciousness Day 28
Month: February 2018
SHRM18 – Connecting Before the Conference!
I know, you've been seeing a lot of SHRM18 blog post/podcast/articles, but we are so excited (and helping you make the decision to save a little money!). Check out the rates and register here. Networking is one of the staple words in HR and this is the perfect place to connect and network with other… Continue reading SHRM18 – Connecting Before the Conference!
#BlackBlogsMatter A Week In Review — Too Much
Hold on to your seats, this is going to be a long one. Week 4 of the #BlackBlogsMatter Challenge has come with a lot of different topics, as always. Head over to @BlckBlgsMttr twitter account to find out about all the topics and stay up to date on the authors sharing their flavors. I'm going to be… Continue reading #BlackBlogsMatter A Week In Review — Too Much
Reverse Racism Isn't Real #BlackBlogsMatter Challenge Day 20
The Oxford Dictionary defines Reverse Racism as - prejudice, discrimination, or antagonism on the basis of race directed against a member of a dominant or privileged racial group. There some days that I feel certain, not all, white people need to be recognized so much that they will spit anything out of their mouths. It's… Continue reading Reverse Racism Isn't Real #BlackBlogsMatter Challenge Day 20
Young Black and Gifted #BlackBlogsMatter Challenge Day 17
I had to write about this, it's who I aspire to be. The #BlackBlogsMatter Challenge has really made me go deep in history and learn things that were never taught to me in a classroom. It has inspired me to find out more about the men and women who spoke truth in a movement… Continue reading Young Black and Gifted #BlackBlogsMatter Challenge Day 17
#BlackBlogsMatter Challenge Day 16 – My Dad is the Best!!!
Hi, it's me, a certified Daddy's Girl! My parents have 4 girls and no boys, please don't fake cry for him, having us girls was the best thing that ever happened in life. Fathers are an important part in a child's life, male or female. My father is a quiet man, he speaks when he… Continue reading #BlackBlogsMatter Challenge Day 16 – My Dad is the Best!!!
Black Love #BlackBlogsMatter #Day14
Black love is a special type of love to me. The images of two strong Black people coming together to create a life of faith, love, communication, and respect makes me believe. Black friendship is important, we have our own struggles, but having someone else to help us on the journey to being who we… Continue reading Black Love #BlackBlogsMatter #Day14
Why I [Can't] Stop Worrying About What White People Think … #BlackBlogsMatter Challenge Week2
I waited a while to write this one, wanting to make sure I was able to get all of my thoughts out properly, and I still don't think I've gotten them all down. At no time in this #BlackBlogsMatter Challenge have we tried to ban someone from speaking their mind, instead, we are simply taking… Continue reading Why I [Can't] Stop Worrying About What White People Think … #BlackBlogsMatter Challenge Week2
It's My Hair #BlackBlogsMatter Challenge #Day8
Solange gave us an entire song and folks still won't listen - Don't Touch My Hair Back when India Arie wasn't periodically problematic, she made the Black Woman hair anthem w/ Akon - I Am Not My Hair Hair is very sacred in the black community. Some of us have taken years to love the craziness… Continue reading It's My Hair #BlackBlogsMatter Challenge #Day8
#BlackBlogsMatter [Run Us Our Respect] Day 5
#BlackBlogsMatter Challenge Day 5 - Cultural Appropriation Just to be clear, this is about a lot more than money, more of decency, courtesy, respect, value, and being human. Cultural Appropriation: the act of taking or using things from a culture that is not your own, especially without showing that you understand or respect this culture. That is one of the easiest definitions of any word in the dictionary. This… Continue reading #BlackBlogsMatter [Run Us Our Respect] Day 5


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Extracts from the The Marine Quarterly - Summer 2011
Ewen Southby-Tailyour charts the Falklands
For reasons I have yet to understand my four unarmed and unescorted landing craft were launched southwest of Lively Island, a seven-and-a-half-hour open sea passage off what was still presumed to be an enemy-held coast. For similarly incomprehensible reasons I was not, despite repeated requests, given the task force recognition signals for that night. 'If you see any other ships, they will be enemy,' said someone consolingly. As a bonus I was not given the precise position of our start point; the landing craft were not fitted with echo sounders; my lead craft had a faulty radar; the compass had an unknown deviation, having earlier been swung for a cargo of light tanks; and we were entering an area of fast-deteriorating weather.
Tom Cunliffe explains the life, times, gear and manoeuvres of the Thames sailing barge
Cargoes were usually loaded and offloaded at a staithe or wharf. But it was by no means unusual to lay the barge onto a smooth beach, let the tide leave her, and unload by wagons drawn down to her across the dried-out sand. The town of Margate was greatly expanded by bricks brought in using this method. It sounds perilous, but in fact there were few really serious accidents. So robust was a barge that she would sometimes be lying on a beach with spray breaking over her cross-trees on a lee shore, yet still work off as she floated. One old-timer noted that 'they couldn't sink, but they used to bounce.'
Sam Llewellyn tells the story of the modern successors of the sailing barge…
Tim Lowry is the Chief Executive of Armac Marine,based on the Medway in Kent. Armac's ten ships range in size between 1180 and 2300 tons. They are excellent carriers of project cargoes too big to go by road – wind farm bits, transformers, tidal generators, fibre-optic cable from the Rhine ports and Ireland to Britain – and high volume materials like gravel and bulk waste, grain and fertilisers. In the winter, the wise men and women of the local council 'truck their road salt from Cheshire all the way down to Kent,' said Lowry, round spectacles glistening with indignation and scorn at this ludicrous waste of truck miles. '96% of British trade involves a leg of water. Why we don't recognize the fact that we're an island nation is beyond me.'
… and Will Llewellyn explores a possible future
Fuel prices will rocket, engines will stop, freight rates will soar and hub-and-spoke logistics chains will grind to a halt. Booze cruising and daily Dutch flowers will become a distant memory. Supermarket shelves will empty. 'Bring back Gustav Erikson and his clippers!' people will cry. 'Wind is free, and the world spent a long time learning to use it!' But Gustav Erikson is dead, and his ships are museums, and the deep skills of sail are something that have been forgotten by most of the world. But not all. Divider Roger Barnes cruises his dinghy to the Ile de SeinOn the northern side of the bay was a little cove bounded by high crags where a handful of local fishing boats lay to improvised buoys. I anchored clear of the moorings. All night long my boat swayed and tugged at her anchor as the Atlantic swell snored on the cliffs around me. I woke early, sodden with dew. It was a bright, clear morning with a light wind off the land. Hoisting sail, I set a hopeful course towards the distant island.
Kate Rew explains how to swim the Channel
The first thing you need to swim the English Channel is less sensitivity to boredom than a whelk. Making your way across the English Channel is an exercise in extended repetition – the twenty-two-mile journey generally takes between ten and twenty hours of uninterrupted swimming – but this is nothing compared to the training involved before you actually start.
Hilaire Belloc gives advice to the simple sailor
If your boat is a home and a companion, and at the same time a genius that takes you from place to place and, what is much more, a comforter and an introducer to the Infinite Verities – and my boat is all these things – then you must put away from yourself altogether the idea of racing. The cruiser, the strong little, deep little boat, is all I have called it. It is a complete satisfaction for man; but if you let in racing you are letting in the serpent.
… and Dermod MacCarthy goes sailing with the great man
The morning after our arrival at Poole we set sail for a passage westward, to Weymouth, but we were never to reach that port owing to an incident at Anvil Point near St Alban's Head off the Dorset coast. That evening, in fact, a rueful Mr Belloc and his crew would be back in Poole Harbour. It was an exciting incident in which disaster to the ship, danger to Mr Belloc and ourselves, even drowning, stared us in the face for a few minutes.
Chris Stewart becomes an amateur professional fisherman
I climbed onto the boat and offered the skipper my credentials. These consisted of some fanciful adolescent claptrap that ran something like this: I was the harvester of the land on account of working as under assistant pigman on the Major's farm, and he was the harvester of the sea. We harvesters should stick together; ours was a noble calling in a world otherwise peopled by bent accountants, hucksters and time-servers. By sharing a day, we would all be the richer for the experience. I must have been bonkers.
Nick Walker, Captain of the last puffer on the west coast of Scotland, continues his marine alphabet
C is for CAUL. This is the skinny membrane that covers the head of some babies and other animals when they are born. Unless it is removed quickly, the baby will not be able to breathe and will suffer accordingly. There is an ancient tradition that if you are born with a caul, you will not drown. I was born with a caul. The midwife took mine away to London's Docklands, to sell to a seaman who had not been fortunate enough to be born with one of his own. My mother says this is nonsense.

subset: commoncrawl


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Article By: Ben Sykora
I no longer need validation
Cause my story is long and I'm patient
I know I have lessons to learn, keep my heart open each step I earn
No need for me to feel alone, cause I got a place that I call home" –"I Am," by Satsang.
In Sanskrit, the word "Satsang" simply means "to associate with true people." There is really no better way to describe the crowd in Denver that night. On their website, Satsang describes themselves as a "conscious music collective." Satsang's mix of soul, folk and hip-hop, provide a unique blend of music, that set the tone for a fun, yet intimate night.
Lead singer Drew McManus grew up just outside of Chicago. McManus describes his upbringing as one of aggression, violence, and abuse. He even described himself as a slave to addiction. After some spiritual experiences, McManus broke his cycle of addiction and began to write. Satsang's music is uplifting, raw, and emotional. Their show completely embodied those themes.
The crowed had a folky vibe. Those I spoke to before the show, described how impactful Satsang's music had been to them. One concert-goer even pointed out how crazy it is, that the sound and soul they produce comes from just three members. Satsang delivered a fun concert with a message. The concert ended with an amazing solo performance of their song "Between," from their new album Pyramid(s). Though Satsang was the opener and a relatively new group, it shouldn't be long until they make it big.


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I have been writing, coaching and speaking on how to be more ALIVE for the past nine
months and a few things have become very clear to me.
There is not a lot of support for aging wildly.
Instead we are bombarded with images of aging gracefully.
Aging responsibly.
Aging "normally".
I do not even know what that means but if there is one thing I know for sure it's that not a lot of us are aging happily.
Instead we seem to be aging tired-ly.
And overhwlemed-ly.
Not exactly the way we planned our lives to be.
But there is a better alternative.
Aging Wildly.
Join me and my partner Linda Edgecombe where we will dish on the best practices to age more wildly in our favourite way to teach stuff: simply.
Plus we will also share about how you can age wildly with us in March.
Join us Monday, February 26th at 10:00am PST for all the goods.
Register here to claim your spot:
(And yes it will be recorded if you cannot make it live!)
To aging on your terms,


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Movements Last Week
On April 27, the Missouri House Emerging Issues Committee finally took a vote on SJR 39, a resolution that would have enshrined discrimination in the Missouri Constitution, and the resolution did not have enough votes to advance.
The resolution has generated controversy at every step in the legislative process. Eight state senators waged an epic filibuster, but the Senate voted to approve the measure. Earlier this month, the Emerging Issues Committee heard public testimony during a hearing that spanned over four hours and went late into the night. And then the Committee postponed a vote on the resolution, reportedly due to a lack of support.
Prior to the vote, committee members gave emotional testimony. In the end, the committee vote was 6-6. With a tie vote, the bill fails to advance. Although some have discussed using a procedural maneuver to bring the measure to the House, House Speaker Todd Richardson, has indicated that is unlikely , and thus the measure appears effectively dead for the session.
#SJR39 has failed in committee with a 6-6 vote. Thank you to all who helped make this possible! pic.twitter.com/Yp1OnoTma6— Protect Thy Neighbor (@protectneighbor) April 27, 2016
Help us thank the 6 representatives who voted against #SJR39 yesterday! https://t.co/jQRvXhOpze #moleg pic.twitter.com/jOhNSyCASJ— Protect Thy Neighbor (@protectneighbor) April 28, 2016
Tennessee Governor Haslam signed HB 1840/SB 1556 into law. Now, therapists and counselors can use their own religious and moral beliefs to justify denying health care services to patients and clients. As a result, Tennesseans who need mental health services could be discriminated against. Despite widespread opposition from mental health providers, the bill is now law in Tennessee, the only state to pass such a law.
TN's Gov @BillHaslam signs bill that could harm LGBT individuals seeking mental healthcare: https://t.co/xfcyv45oxB #HB1840 #SB1556 #TNLeg— Protect Thy Neighbor (@protectneighbor) April 28, 2016
On April 28, the House Armed Services Committee held a marathon mark-up of the Fiscal Year 2017 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), one of the few must-pass bills in Congress each year. The committee approved an amendment by Rep. Steve Russell (R-OK) by a vote of 33-29, which would sanction taxpayer-funded employment discrimination. The amendment applies to every federal grant and contract awarded by every federal agency, permitting religiously affiliated organizations (including hospitals and universities) that get grants and contracts to only hire people who belong to the organization's denomination or profess the same beliefs. The result: government-funded jobs will be denied to qualified candidates because they are of the "wrong religion."
The bill will be considered by the full House of Representatives during the week of May 16; the Senate Armed Services Committee will mark up its version of the NDAA during the week of May 9.


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The short answer is - NO, you really shouldn't. Though you may see others on the trail without even a backpack on, it does not mean that it is ok for you. Unprepared hikers pose a risk for themselves, others in their group, and anyone who may need to help them out in a rescue type situation. Some people in the wilderness, whether new or experienced, can also make the mistake of not being prepared on a simple day hike. Sometimes it is the trail that people consider easy, that might put them into a scary situation.
Most of the classic Ten Essentials lists have been updated to a system approach. Instead of just limiting you to ten items, the system makes sure to cover all necessities that can work together to keep you as secure as possible in a backwoods emergency situation. Because of this, the essentials list includes more than ten items. Since this is a list of essentials, they are in no particular order:
NUTRITION: It is important to carry enough food for a whole extra day out. So even if you are on a day hike, then you should carry two days of food. Also, be aware of those in your group whose food you are carrying. Make sure everyone has enough extra food so your personal extra supply doesn't need to support others as well.
HYDRATION: Everyone should have at least one bottle of water, but to be more safe, carry two bottles. It is also important to have the means for treating water in case you need to resupply. A water filter or a chemical treatment option. Chemical treatment, being smaller, is easy to add to a small day pack. Most water filters are lightweight and will be worth their bulkiness, depending on the type or brand.
NAVIGATION: A waterproof topographic map and compass are the most basic navigation tools to carry. Go above and beyond by bringing a GPS unit or even a description of the trail or trails you will be on. Pictures can help when trying to identify certain terrain also. If you have a smart phone then it can store some of this content, like photos and text from trail guides.
ILLUMINATION: You should always carry a flashlight or head lamp in case you happen to be on the trail past dark even if you didn't plan on it. I find that head lamps work best and some flashlights are too heavy or become awkward to carry through rough terrain. Illumination is also important for rescue if it is dark out.
INSULATION: This can vary based on climate. Extra clothing should always be packed, but you may need thicker layers if temperatures reflect that. Remember that temperatures in the mountains can be quite cooler at increased elevation. When considering your clothing in the outdoors, choose wisely by picking synthetic materials that don't hold moisture. This life saving tip includes the clothes you have on to begin the hike as well. Nylon or polyester based fabrics are used in everything from underwear to shirts.
SUN PROTECTION: The number one thing to carry for protection from the sun is sun screen. Hats and sunglasses are also recommended and nine times out of ten are already worn or packed on the trail. Umbrellas have been on the rise in popularity for hikers because of newer lightweight types that cover more area than just a hat and can be used if it rains as well. Always pack lip balm!
FIRST AID: If you choose to buy a kit that is designed for hiking needs or build your own, keep in mind the bare minimum. Blisters are very common on the trail and can become an issue if you find yourself away from the trail on an uneven terrain, so make sure to be able to treat them. Bandages of different sizes are good to have on hand because you never know what type of an injury you may obtain. It is best to have some ointment to treat abrasions and tape to help secure bandages. A lot of hikers like to pack duct tape for first aid, which can also be used for other emergency purposes. Finally, make sure you have any over the counter medications you prefer and any prescribed medication you require. You may find an anti chafe cream or ointment very helpful also.
REPAIR KIT: Knives can be one of the most handy tools for repair or emergency food preparation. Some people choose to take multi tools and others consider them heavy and unnecessary. A good alternative is to split light tools up between those in a group; pliers, scissors, knives, etc. This is a good time to bring up duct tape again as a great all around repair item for any leaks, rips, or tears. Shoelaces are a great item to pack, not only for a possible broken shoelace, but also for tying other things together. This list can get longer by adding anything extra that you are worried might break on your pack or tent; like ties or buckles.
SHELTER: If you are backpacking then you most likely have a shelter, but if you are out on a day hike, then consider these options. A bivy sack is all inclusive keeps you warm and is advertised as waterproof. A lightweight tarp is great, but should be accompanied with an emergency blanket or even a garbage bag. Some hikers also use garbage bags to line their packs and keep everything dry inside.
FIRE BUILDING: Waterproof matches are a staple item because they will light in most situations. Carry a small lighter and try that first, for if it fires up, then you save your last resort and get instant flame. Some people pack a flint of some sort or even bring tinder from home. Dryer lint is a great fire starter! It is best to keep these items as dry as possible. It is very important to know how to start a fire in the woods without the amenities of your house. You will most likely be dealing with wet wood and tinder. Note: Only extreme emergencies allow for fires in non designated areas. Make sure you know the rules of the land you will be hiking on!
Above and beyond this essentials system you might want a protection from insects! Biting flies, ticks and of course mosquitoes can ruin a trip and make an emergency situation worse. There are sprays and even a handy head net that can save you from complete loss of mind. Another item, that is sometimes accompanied with something else already in your pack, is a reflector. Compasses or multi tools might have a reflector that can help if you need to be located. A personal locator beacon is a costly item that will ensure rescue if used properly. Some packs have a built in whistle which can also help for location purposes. If not, then consider adding one to your essentials list.
I think a smart phone is a great resource as stated above for holding information. There are some apps that work in airplane mode that help with navigation by using satellites. Also, email yourself all of the trail information and backup maps to have references on your phone if needed.
REI actually has a great list: http://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/day-hiking-checklist.html
By Rudy Giecek


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Warning! Top-notch instant cameras known to boost happiness.
Are you ready for festival season? If the answer is no then, fear not, we're giving you the chance to win an instax mini 9, plus film and a stash of festival essentials to help you capture all of your summer memories.
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The winner will be chosen at random from all the entrants and they will be notified via email on the 20th July 2018. Entrants must be a resident in the UK or Ireland. The promoter is FUJIFILM UK Limited, Unit 10A, St Martins Business Centre, St Martins Way, Bedford, Bedfordshire, MK42 0LF. Entry is free.
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Then on the 20th July 2018 check your email to see if you are our lucky giveaway bundle winner!
Click the ENTER NOW button below and sign up to our newsletter for your chance to win.


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How to connect Smart Switch and use it on device?
It is always great and exciting to purchase a fresh gadget. No doubts that all owners of new Smartphones or tablets wish to take them from a box and start using immediately. But what about all your favorite applications, numerous photos, video files and important data on the old device? All these files have to be transferred to the new gadget. As a rule, it can take from several hours to half a day if you have never heard about using Samsung Smart Switch. You are welcome to send all necessary stuff from the old Smartphone to a newly bought one following Samsung smart switch instructions. You will find Smart switch in app store. This useful tool will help you to save time, sending important data seamlessly from the old Galaxy or IPhone devices to fresh Galaxy tablets or mobile phones. More than that it helps in finding interesting applications and proposes similar apps , that can be found in Google Play. Smart Switch is useful while scanning and transferring important content on a phone and from card SD.
How do you use Samsung smart switch?
• For transferring files from an old gadget without a wire.
• Sending stuff Using a USB cable.
• From a computer to a fresh Galaxy phone.
Does Smart Switch Need Wi-Fi?
An application will not work without a reliable internet connection on a Smartphone. So, before using this app, make sure that an internet is turned on.
How to use smart switch?
Smart Switch connecting to your device is very simple, if your phone meets such requirements:
• Your gadget has to be manufactured not earlier than 2016 and it has to run such versions of Android as Oreo 8.0, 7.0 or Marshmallow 6.0.
• Make sure than an application is downloaded on both devices- an old and new ones.
How to transfer from S7 to S9
If you don't know how to use smart switch app, then follow the next instructions to migrate all data from Galaxy S7 to S9.
• Turn on both Smartphones and enter an application on two devices.
• On the old phone choose –Wireless.
• On a fresh Galaxy handset select Wireless too.
• Then tap- Send on the old Smartphone and –Receive on a fresh gadget.
• On a previous model of a phone tap-Connect and on a new handset choose-Android.
• A next step is choosing content, which has to be transferred, after picking important stuff, tap-Send.
• On a fresh Galaxy phone choose Receive.
• When process of transferring is finished, tap- Close an application on both Smartphones.
Now, you know how to transfer files using smart switch.
Samsung smart switch wireless way of migrating data is not the only one method of moving files, one can use a cable USB.
• Turn on two Android devices.
• Connect previous Smartphone to a fresh one with the help of USB cable and a connector.
• SS application will be automatically opened on both devices, if it didn't happen, then make sure that a cable is connected in a right way.
• Select –Allow on the old Android gadget.
• Don't hurry, because scanning an old Smartphone takes some time.
• Choose a data that will be transferred and tap-Transfer.
• After finishing Transferring, tap- Close app to finish an operation.
Transfer data from LG to Samsung
Sending stuff from LG to Galaxy device from a Korean giant with the help of Smart Switch is really easy. If you have no idea how to use Samsung smart switch, then have a look at following steps:
• A first step is installing SS app from Samsung on both Smartphones. Open them on the old and a new handset.
• On the LG device select Start and then- Wireless. Then choose –Send and tap Receive on a Galaxy phone. Select necessary files that are going to be moved and tap-Send.
Process of Motorola to Samsung transfer is the same.
If you wish to send files from an Android Smartphone to Blackberry, then use an interesting time-saving application Device Switch. Device Switch download is easy and fast, just find it on Google Play. It allows transferring photographs, videos and contacts from Android phones to Blackberry devices without any need to connect them to a computer.
Smart Switch IOS to Samsung
If you have decided to change your old IPhone to a fresh flagship from Samsung, then you have to know how to smart switch.
• After downloading and installing Smart Switch application from a Korean giant, open it on a fresh device.
• Launch an app and select- Import from ICloud. Don't forget to backup all video files, images and contacts to account ICloud first.
• Choose stuff you wish to move to a new phone.
How does Samsung Smart Switch work on a PC?
Smart Switch from a Korean company can be installed on a computer with Mac or Windows. At first download an application on your PC. Then sync it with your Smartphone. To do it, launch an application on a computer and connect a mobile phone to a PC with the help of cable USB. You will be proposed to allow files transfer on a Smartphone. Choose- Transfer files on a phone. After connecting a Galaxy device to a computer, it is quite simple to back up necessary files.
• Just launch a Switch application on a PC.
• Select -Backup.
• Then allow access permission on a Smartphone.
• Choose-Allow. If there is a micro SD in your gadget, data stored there can be backed up too.
• After sending all files, select OK to complete an operation.
Summing up, it is necessary to say that Smart Switch from Samsung is a very useful application that has a lot of benefits. It is all in one solution when you wish to purchase a better and a more powerful device.


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STC ratings are a way to measure and compare how much sound is stopped / absorbed by any given product / material. STC ratings are used for windows, wall assemblies, doors and some constituent materials.
The STC rating is the average amount of noise stopped at 18 different frequencies, measured in decibels. STC ratings are a logarithmic scale similar to the earthquake Richter Scale, which means each escalating number is significantly higher in performance than the previous number. It is a non-linear scale.See Post
Finish Charts The AHFB-18 (Architectural Hardware Finish Board) EDP# 06-9601 pictured above represents only a fraction of more than 60 high quality architectural grade finishes offered by the majority of hardware manufacturers. Colors are an indication only do to limitation of photography, and computer hardware and software. Please find below for your reference downloadable finish […]See Post
In warm climates, like South Florida, it's important that the inside of buildings stay cool in order to have maximum comfort for all occupants. Aside from routine HVAC maintenance, entryway systems also affect how efficiently the air conditioning in a building distributes throughout the space. In a 2006 MIT study, revolving doors were proven to […]See Post
When structural engineers and architects collaborate during the design phase for buildings or structures, one of the most important factors requiring consideration is the velocity and imposed load of wind on the building and the constituent components (such as doors and windows). When calculating these loads, there are several factors that need to be considered. Some of these factors are not as intuitive as one might think.See Post
If you have automatic doors installed at your building, whether commercial or residential, it is important that you plan their maintenance carefully in order to keep them functional for a long time. If you don't take measures to maintain your automatic doors, they can end up damaged before they have reached their full design service life. Depending upon factors such as the amount of traffic and the age of doors, you can select anything from a basic to an all-inclusive full maintenance program type that your local door service company has to offer.See Post
It is often times difficult to get a "500 mile high" view of trends in the automatic door community. It is a community of regional distribution channels and considerations. In 2004, AAADM (The American Association of Automatic Door Manufacturer's – www.aaadm.com) conducted an influential study / survey which helped to fill in the blanks in […]See Post
Many of Dash Door's clients are well versed in the various automatic door types and their general uses. We often find it helpful; however, to point customers who are "newbies" to automatic doors to the information below as provided by Christopher Johnson of the American Association of Automatic Door Manufacturers (AAADM). It is a good […]See Post


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Natural Home Remedies for Dizziness
Dizziness is a term used toDizziness can make you lose balance and may cause hurt describe a feeling of unsteadiness or lightheadedness. You have a feeling as if you or your surroundings are spinning or are in motion. Although it can affect anyone, people with advanced age are more prone to it.
Some people experience dizziness due to anxiety. Dizziness causes include head injury, an inner ear infection, or dehydration. Those suffering from hypotension or low blood pressure and cardiac problems are most prone to suffer from dizzy spells.
The first thing you should do when you have symptoms of dizziness is to sit down to avoid risk of losing balance and hurting yourself.
As dizziness is treatable, in most cases simple and effective home and natural remedies prove sufficient.
Natural Home Remedies for Dizziness
You can try these safe, effective, economical and easy to follow remedies to relieve your dizziness.
- Prepare a mixture of mustard, vinegar, pepper and salt (equal proportions). Consume this preparation with one glass of water. This dizziness home remedy will help increase your blood circulation and maintain body balance.
- A natural treatment for dizziness resides in preparation made from apple cider vinegar and honey (one teaspoon each in a glass of water). Drink three glassfuls a day as this remedy works wonders and is a very effective home remedy for dizziness.
- Indian gooseberry or amla is said to be effective among natural dizziness remedies. Soak some coriander seeds and amla powder in water overnight and consume in the morning for positive results.
- Dizziness home treatment also includes massaging with lavender oil as it can help relieve effects of dizziness, stress and anxiety besides improving your body's blood circulation.
- In a glass of water add one pinch of salt, black pepper and some lemon extract. Consume this to rid dizziness. This is among effective home remedies for dizziness that gives quick relief from symptoms.
- Also, water and liquids can benefit to a good extent in relieving this condition and help you naturally treat dizziness. Consume plenty of water and fruit juices as it keeps your body well hydrated and aids in circulation.


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With Valentine's Day about a week away, here at the shop we thought we would compile a few pieces that would make a fun surprise for another or a special treat for yourself!
As always, we have many more items from all of our artists in store, so please stop in or contact us with any questions.
The heart earrings, ring, and xoxo earrings are a delicate and easy to wear way to celebrate the solidarity of friendship, or a special someone.
Diamond studs are sure to wow and become a sparkly addition to her everyday wardrobe.
Our waterdrop collection is easy to wear and very versatile for many occasions.
If something completely customized is what you're after, check out or stud builder or pearl bar for "just for you" items that will turn into classics.
Any piece by Petri Kymlander is truly a one of a kind work of art, like these ruby cabochon and diamond earrings - hand-constructed and set in 18K Yellow Gold.


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I turned myself into a crocheting machine the last week and finished a large amount of ornaments for co-workers and family members. These star ones in basic cotton, are from a free pattern from Caron and were super easy - just 4 rounds. I cranked out the middle of the motif (first three rds) and then finished them off on the bus commute. For such simple items, they were very well received and peeps loved them - I liked the idea for work, because the shape is generic enough for any religion or lack thereof, and could be used outside of Christmas if someone didn't celebrate it.
The Caron pattern: http://www.caron.com/projects/ss/star_ornament.html
I did the rainbow ones for the lesbian contingent at work. They were happy to get a pride-themed item that was both Christmas-y and subtle, plus able to be used outside of tree decorating.
I also did these snowmen - just a basic white circle, glued on a felt nose, fabric paint for eyes/mouth, and then just did different circle-based motifs for the background (glue the face on).
The Caron pattern: http://www.caron.com/projects/ss/star_ornament.html


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Austin had his 6th birthday party at Bouncin' off the Walls...our family loves this place!!! He wanted to do a batman themes party as well. And I was lucky enough to win a cake giveaway a few month earlier from Sprinklebelle Cakes So Austin got a very cool Batman Cake and cupcakes!! He had friends from school and his cousins at his party so he had a blast!!!
Things Austin Mastered Last Year
* can read simple books, and is an awesome speller
* can swim
* goes down waterslides by himself
* make his bed
* and what he most proud of is passing off levels on his own on this PS3 games


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Does one need any more proof that Nirvana Ruined Everything? Look and be humbled by the outrageous hair on Nitro singer Jim Gillette, matched only by his falsetto scream. But the hair, the lights and the black spandex all pale into insignificance once Michael Angio Batio begins to shred on his specially-made quad-neck guitar.
* If you're in a hurry, watch this snippet that cuts straight to the solo. Or you can just admire the general awesomeness of this pic:
Pic is from Leather Rebel.
Freight Train is from the album O.F.R (Out-Fucking-Rageous)


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Robert A. Bartlett, a famous Newfoundland ship captain and master ice navigator, spent his career plying ice-laden waters around the North Atlantic and Alaska. He knew how to work with ice, pushing it aside, crashing or dynamiting a path through it, and using it to protect his vessels from icebergs.
He transported explorers, scientists, cinematographers, and adventures north, and during World War II his vessel, Effie Morrissey, was part of the US fleet working in the North Atlantic. This exhibit will feature photographs taken on many of his voyages.
Julie Santorella
More Info:


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Legislature should support public transportation through revenue package
Pierce Transit's resources and revenue have steadily declined for six years. At our last board meeting, we took action to cut 84 positions from the agency. This makes a total of 291 positions cut over the past four years.
These recent cuts result in nearly $6 million in savings, which is needed to balance our budget. Pierce Transit now faces an additional 28 percent reduction in annual service hours. At the public hearing, we listened to passionate comments from the state's most vulnerable citizens who pleaded for services critical to reaching their medical appointments, the grocery store, work, and church, among other important activities.
As the economy struggles to recover, public transportation matters more than ever. An increasing number of Washington residents rely on transit to get to work and school. Employees, seniors and students will now have to wait 30 to 60 minutes and in some cases two hours for their next bus. Riders are forced to stand during long trips on packed buses.
Washington's businesses and economy depend on the reliability of our transportation systems. When freight, employees and students all grind to a halt on highways and streets, so does our economy. Take away people's ability to get to work and you take away their buying power.
Despite impending service cuts, there may be short-term relief if the Legislature decides to enact a transportation revenue package during this special session — a task that Gov. Jay Inslee has strongly encouraged them to complete.
As Pierce Transit board members, we strongly support the proposed transportation revenue package, which will provide temporary funding and local options to act as a Band-Aid for the agency. The package includes a one-time allocation of $3 million to restore some evening and weekend services for one year, and funding for Park & Ride improvements in Spanaway and Puyallup.
As part of the revenue package, Pierce Transit would also be authorized to create a transportation enhancement zone to allow the sales tax to be increased up to an additional 0.3 percent (three pennies for every $10 spent) in a portion of the district by public vote. The zone could be no larger than half of the service area, and would sunset after three years.
Even as a local option, it is only a temporary fix, with hope that the economy will continue to improve along with Pierce Transit's revenues. Unfortunately, even with temporary funding and local options, service cuts will still need to be made.
While not a long-term solution, this could carry Pierce Transit and Washington's citizens through next year. We strongly urge our legislators to support the proposed transportation revenue package, and we hope they will take the time to listen to the voices of those who rely on public transportation for their livelihoods. It is the most pro-business, job-creating policy decision to be made in Olympia this session.
Marilyn Strickland is the mayor of Tacoma and chairwoman of the Pierce Transit Board of Commissioners. Rick Talbert is the vice chairman of the Pierce County Council and vice chairman of the Pierce Transit Board of Commissioners.


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Being the market reference for this category of boat, the Rodman 1250 has been specially designed for the most demanding sailing conditions.
Designed specifically for group or family use thanks to her generously proportioned interior, the Rodman 1250 will transport you all in style. An important feature of the new Rodman 1250 is the incorporation of the optional Volvo Penta IPS, a fully electronic system that optimises such important variables such as acceleration (0 -30 kts in 13 seconds), fuel consumption (30% less than conventional shaft drives), range, manoeuvrability and comfort. This model is still however available on shaft drive if that is your preferred option, with the choice of Volvo or Yanmar engines.
The Rodman 1250 is a walkaround boat, but having a beam of 13' 9" the large walkaround side decks do not impinge on the internal volume of the saloon. This is a large boat which needs to be seen in the flesh so that you can truly appreciate her dimensions. A double helm seat comfortably positions the captain within easy reach of all controls.
Step down from the saloon into the large galley, Corian worktops offer ample space to cook with ease, fitted with a double gas burner and microwave oven as standard you won't have any trouble keeping all onboard well nourished.
The double berth owner's cabin with two wardrobe and generous stowage space is located forward of the guest cabin which has large single beds offering remarkably comfortable living conditions, being improved further by the separate shower and large heads.
The Rodman 1250 is now available with or without a flybridge, the choice is yours.
*All prices include delivery ex Chichester, PDI, commissioning, three day professional tuition and mooring pack
Rodman 1250
Rodman's most popular Sports FisherGet a quote


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WNDU 16 (South Bend, Indiana): Disappointed citizens ask Congresswoman Walorski to change her mind on health care bill
The senate will now decide the fate of the American Health Care Act, and it's sure to be a heated debate. The bill isn't just polarizing in Washington. Here in Michiana, protesters took up signs Friday after Congresswoman Jackie Walorski voted to help pass the bill Thursday in the House.
They said they, ideally, would like Congresswoman Walorski to change her mind on the bill, but they will gladly take amendments if they can fix the many problems protesters see.
They've seen plenty of problems. With their local representative"No show Walorski hides from her constituents," One sign read.
And the language put forward in the bill she supports.
"I just got more and more angry the more and more I thought about that vote and that bill," Keith Davis said. "And I thought, if I'm this mad, I should come out!"
They say the biggest concern is because the bill allows states to increase health care costs for people with a myriad of pre-existing conditions.
"I can't believe a C-section is on the list," One woman said. "A C-section! How is that a condition?"
Some of those conditions are fairly common issues.
"Simply having had a child can be considered a pre-existing condition," Davis said. "Having had a C-section can make you- can be considered a pre-existing condition under some of these changes."
One of the big reasons, proponents of the bill voted yes for it was because it gets rid of Obamacare. In a statement, congresswoman Walorski writes
"This bill ends Obamacare's burdensome taxes and mandates, including a permanent repeal of the job-killing medical device tax that harmed innovative manufacturers and their employees across Indiana."
"They just want to be able to say that they've repealed Obamacare," Catherine Osborne said. "They know they can't do it if they're honest about what's actually in the bill."
They might be heard by the people passing by, but they fear their voice isn't reaching the ears that matter.
"That's one of our biggest concerns is that it seems like she just isn't listening," Davis said. "And isn't even willing to make her case to us in person."
The protesters said even if Walorski is not listening to them, they want to try and raise awareness for her constituents. They say after that, maybe some influence will make her change her mind.
Walorski's full statement is as follows:
"Too many Hoosiers are facing higher premiums, fewer options, and a collapsing system under Obamacare. That's why I made a promise to the people of Indiana's 2nd District to repeal Obamacare and replace it with a patient-centered system that lowers costs, provides real protections, and gives individuals and families control over their health care again.
"Today the House delivered on that promise to fix our nation's health care system. The American Health Care Act protects patients with pre-existing conditions, ensures access to quality, affordable health care, and gives states the flexibility they need to enact innovative reforms like those in Indiana.
"This bill ends Obamacare's burdensome taxes and mandates, including a permanent repeal of the job-killing medical device tax that harmed innovative manufacturers and their employees across Indiana. It protects life by stopping the flow of taxpayer dollars to abortion providers like Planned Parenthood. And with today's passage of additional legislation I co-sponsored, it will treat Members of Congress the same as everyone else.
"I look forward to working with my Senate colleagues to get the American Health Care Act to President Trump's desk for his signature so we can build a health care system that puts patients first."


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It's been a pretty busy week at the shops, but we were lucky enough to meet up with Anne-Marie from Anne et Valentin this week. Usually we'd have to travel to Paris or NYC to see the collection in person, however Anne-Marie was in town and stopped by the Yonge St location to show us the latest and greatest from the AetV collection.
Original and rich in colour, the collection is easy to wear, even in the case of the shyest client who dares not dare.
In particular the Factory models were duly crafted with a combination of smooth, polished lines and then re-cut to give a raw, unfinished polish to offer a juxtaposing look on the same frame. You gotta check them out when them come in!
You can view the collections at both our Distillery District and Yonge St locations..and remember...Spectacle Loves You!Tweet


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Your Galaxy S7 Phone's Play Store App
You can access the Play Store through your Galaxy S7 phone's Play Store app or through the Internet. The easiest way to access the Play Store is through the Play Store app on your Galaxy S7 phone. The icon is shown here.
If the Play Store app isn't already on your Home screen, you can find it in your Apps list. To open it, simply tap the icon.
When you tap the Play Store icon, you're greeted by the screen looking something like what is shown here.
As new apps become available, the highlighted apps will change, and the Home page will change from one day to the next.
In addition, the good folks at Google spend a lot of time thinking about what is the best way to help the hundreds of millions of Android users find the best application from the selection of 1.8 million apps.
This is no small task. Some of those users are very experienced and know just what they want. Others are walking in the door for the first time while still others are just coming to browse and see whether anything strikes their fancy.
The goal for Google is to make every user who comes in find what they want. The goal in this book is to give you enough information so that you can be comfortable downloading your first app and then comfortable finding other interesting apps as you become more familiar with the layout.


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The Scottish took place from 1-7 July at Lauder. We have had some very wet years for the Scottish at Lauder in the past, but this year was the complete opposite! Most days were blessed with bright sunshine, warm temperatures and of course a brisk to strong wind most of the time! This did however present a problem shooters previously hadn't experienced at The Scottish – it became impossible to scope/see shots at 100 yards, certainly on the bottom diagram and often on the middle diagram! Clearing the cut grass away from the range part way through the week offered little respite from this problem, shooters having to complete their targets "by instinct" after leaving the sighting diagram.
The usual format was in place with competition starting on the Saturday afternoon and all squadded competitions finishing on the following Thursday afternoon. On the Friday we had the Home Countries International in the morning and the Final of the blue riband individual event, The Haig, on the Friday afternoon. A full listing of results can be found on the NSRA website at:-
Worthy of note if the huge number of trophies won by the sizeable contingent from George Watsons School who were ably shepherded by Ian Thomson, Rhona Dove, Adam Dove and no doubt others. Well done there!!
At the end of the week the top shooters available made up the Scotland teams for the Home Countries Internationals but we fell short in both the Main Team and the Ladies (no Junior Team this year sadly). Most notable in the Home International was Sheena Sharp winning an amazing 150th cap for Scotland, a fantastic achievement!! The Main Team lost by a mere 5 points and the Ladies by somewhat more.
Scotland Main Team
J Cole-Hamilton 196 196 392
J Paterson 194 196 390
K Greenaway 193 195 388
R Macleod 193 192 385
L Thomson 196 189 385
J Main 191 193 384
J Henderson 194 189 383
A S Bruce 191 189 380
R Law 188 190 378
W Vaughan 191 186 377
Total 3842
Scotland Ladies Team
S Sharp 192 192 384
K Copland 185 186 371
M Bexley 186 195 381
S Henderson 190 186 376
M Melvin 185 175 360
Total 1872
Jim Cole-Hamilton's fantastic form demonstrated in the Home Countries International carried on through to the afternoon's final of the Haig where he really was a class above the rest of the field. He shot extremely well and consistently to take the title, again. Ken Greenaway pushed hard for second place, 4 points behind and third was Susan Jackson.
Next year is the Centenary of The Scottish so please make plans to attend this landmark event as the future of the event is still very much in the balance. At the prize giving Ken Nash took the opportunity to ensure people were aware of the precarious financial position The Scottish (and Bisley Week apparently) were in due to various factors, the main one however being the lack of sufficient entrants and their entry fees. So please do consider entering next year. It is always a challenging week with a wealth of prizes on offer in every class so everyone has the opportunity to make their mark. Get your entry in!
Report Sinclair Bruce / Photographs Robin Thomson


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- The Association of Flight Attendants-CWA (AFA-CWA) circulated a letter on Thursday asking President Donald Trump, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell to end the government shutdown.
- The AFA-CWA is a union representing 50,000 flight attendants from airlines such as United, Alaska, Spirit, and Hawaiian.
- The flight attendants were joined by more than 30 other unions and organization from across the aviation industry, including the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA) and the National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA).
- They are asking both sides of the aisle to end the shutdown due to the operational and financial harm being done to workers and the traveling public.
As the federal government shutdown drags into its third week, the US civil aviation industry has issued a warning to both sides of the political divide that real harm is being done.
On Thursday, the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA circulated a letter dispatched to President Donald Trump, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell.
"We write to urge you to act now to prevent the negative impacts currently being experienced by the U.S. aviation industry that supports the traveling and shipping public," the letter said. "This partial shutdown has already inflicted real damage to our nation's aviation system and the impacts will only worsen over time."
The AFA-CWA, a union representing 50,000 flight attendants from airlines such as United, Alaska, Spirit, and Hawaiian, have been joined by more than 30 other unions and organization from across the aviation industry including the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA) and the National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA).
Read more: Delta, United, and JetBlue pilots are warning that flying will become more dangerous as the government shutdown continues.
In the letter, the organizations express concerns about the shutdown's impact across the industry, including:
- The training of air-traffic controllers has been halted even though the number of working controllers is already at a 30-year low. In addition, controllers and the technical operations staff who maintain air-traffic-control equipment are working without pay, athough it should be noted that they are due back pay once the shutdown is over.
- The certification and authorization of new aircraft have been halted. This means that airlines can't add new planes to their fleets. According to the letter, this could hinder planned route expansion and cause flight cancellations.
- The Federal Aviation Administration cannot issue new student pilot certificates, which has halted the training of prospective pilots. In addition, the FAA is also not processing background checks, which prevents new-hire pilots from continuing their training.
- Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and Customs and Border Protection Agents are working without pay. This, the letter says, creates severe financial hardship since many are living paycheck to paycheck.
The AFA-CWA and the Association of Professional Flight Attendants (APFA) sent a separate letter on Thursday to Trump, Pelosi, and McConnell, demanding an end to the shutdown. The APFA represents flight attendants from American Airlines.
"Flight Attendants across the industry ask you to end the shutdown now," the letter reads. "This is a matter of safety, security, and economic concern."
These letters echo many of the concerns voiced by ALPA, NATCA, and the TSA workers' union in recent weeks. In a letter to Trump, ALPA said that the shutdown is negatively affecting the safety, security, and efficiency of the national airspace.
Read more: TSA employees working unpaid because of the government shutdown are quitting — and this could create a 'massive security risk' for travelers.
The head of the TSA workers' union said in a post on the organization's website that some workers had already quit and that many others were considering quitting due to a lack of income.
Aviation industry workers, along with som political leaders, are rallying in Washington, DC, on Thursday to demand an end to the government shutdown.
Here's the AFA-CWA's first letter in its entirety:


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The picture below entitled with Large Easy Kitchen Remodel Ideas. This photo was upload at July 02, 2013 upload by Verney Levesque in Planning & Ideas category.
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Everyone thinks kitchen is the center of the house just because the kitchen is used a lot and really often. You have to design your kitchen well. If you already have a designed kitchen. You may be satisfied with the design and you are comfortable with it. If you are bored with the designs and want to give a new look to your kitchen design, you may want to consider the kitchen remodeling. Remodeling a kitchen is not easy. You have to make sure that there is not so many stuff is replaced and redesigned. If you have a lot
Back To Get Inspirations from Images Kitchen Remodels Gallery


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House Of Lights
The article of House Of Lights have 9 photos , they are House Of Lights #1 Christmas Lights At 110 Copper Run, Madison, AL. Features Lots Of Lights Not, Delightful House Of Lights Amazing Design #2 House With Christmas Lights., House Of Lights Pictures Gallery #3 House Of ., Christmas Lights Dance To The Sound Of "Run, Run, Rudolph,†By Motörhead, One Of The 13 Songs Programmed To The Lights Strung Up At This Ontario Home., House Of Lights #5 Noel, Noel, Home's Address ., Faucher-christmas-lights-outdoor-decor-new-castle-delaware, House Of Lights\, Newsplex. Below are the images:
This post about House Of Lights was uploaded at October 20, 2018 at 3:25 pm. It is uploaded at the Home category. House Of Lights is tagged with House Of Lights, House, Of, Lights..
Househouse (n., adj. hous;v. houz),USA pronunciation n., pl. hous•es (hou′ziz),USA pronunciation v., housed, hous•ing, adj.
- a building in which people live;
residence for human beings.
- a household.
- (often cap.) a family, including ancestors and descendants: the great houses of France; the House of Hapsburg.
- a building for any purpose: a house of worship.
- a theater, concert hall, or auditorium: a vaudeville house.
- the audience of a theater or the like.
- a place of shelter for an animal, bird, etc.
- the building in which a legislative or official deliberative body meets.
- (cap.) the body itself, esp. of a bicameral legislature: the House of Representatives.
- a quorum of such a body.
- (often cap.) a commercial establishment;
business firm: the House of Rothschild; a publishing house.
- a gambling casino.
- the management of a commercial establishment or of a gambling casino: rules of the house.
- an advisory or deliberative group, esp. in church or college affairs.
- a college in an English-type university.
- a residential hall in a college or school;
- the members or residents of any such residential hall.
- a brothel;
- a variety of lotto or bingo played with paper and pencil, esp. by soldiers as a gambling game.
- Also called parish. [Curling.]the area enclosed by a circle 12 or 14 ft. (3.7 or 4.2 m) in diameter at each end of the rink, having the tee in the center.
- any enclosed shelter above the weather deck of a vessel: bridge house; deck house.
- one of the 12 divisions of the celestial sphere, numbered counterclockwise from the point of the eastern horizon.
- bring down the house, to call forth vigorous applause from an audience;
be highly successful: The children's performances brought down the house.
- clean house. See clean (def. 46).
- dress the house, [Theat.]
- to fill a theater with many people admitted on free passes;
paper the house.
- to arrange or space the seating of patrons in such a way as to make an audience appear larger or a theater or nightclub more crowded than it actually is.
- keep house, to maintain a home;
manage a household.
- like a house on fire or afire, very quickly;
with energy or enthusiasm: The new product took off like a house on fire.
- on the house, as a gift from the management;
free: Tonight the drinks are on the house.
- put or set one's house in order:
- to settle one's affairs.
- to improve one's behavior or correct one's faults: It is easy to criticize others, but it would be better to put one's own house in order first.
- to put or receive into a house, dwelling, or living quarters: More than 200 students were housed in the dormitory.
- to give shelter to;
lodge: to house flood victims in schools.
- to provide with a place to work, study, or the like: This building houses our executive staff.
- to provide storage space for;
be a receptacle for or repository of: The library houses 600,000 books.
- to remove from exposure;
put in a safe place.
- to stow securely.
- to lower (an upper mast) and make secure, as alongside the lower mast.
- to heave (an anchor) home.
- [Carpentry.]
- to fit the end or edge of (a board or the like) into a notch, hole, or groove.
- to form (a joint) between two pieces of wood by fitting the end or edge of one into a dado of the other.
- to take shelter;
- of, pertaining to, or noting a house.
- for or suitable for a house: house paint.
- of or being a product made by or for a specific retailer and often sold under the store's own label: You'll save money on the radio if you buy the house brand.
- served by a restaurant as its customary brand: the house wine.
Ofof1 (uv, ov; unstressed əv or, esp. before consonants, ə),USA pronunciation prep.
- (used to indicate distance or direction from, separation, deprivation, etc.): within a mile of the church; south of Omaha; to be robbed of one's money.
- (used to indicate derivation, origin, or source): a man of good family; the plays of Shakespeare; a piece of cake.
- (used to indicate cause, motive, occasion, or reason): to die of hunger.
- (used to indicate material, component parts, substance, or contents): a dress of silk; a book of poems; a package of cheese.
- (used to indicate apposition or identity): Is that idiot of a salesman calling again?
- (used to indicate specific identity or a particular item within a category): the city of Chicago; thoughts of love.
- (used to indicate possession, connection, or association): the king of France; the property of the church.
- (used to indicate inclusion in a number, class, or whole): one of us.
- (used to indicate the objective relation, the object of the action noted by the preceding noun or the application of a verb or adjective): the ringing of bells; He writes her of home; I'm tired of working.
- (used to indicate reference or respect): There is talk of peace.
- (used to indicate qualities or attributes): an ambassador of remarkable tact.
- (used to indicate a specified time): They arrived of an evening.
- [Chiefly Northern U.S.]before the hour of;
until: twenty minutes of five.
- on the part of: It was very mean of you to laugh at me.
- in respect to: fleet of foot.
- set aside for or devoted to: a minute of prayer.
- [Archaic.]by: consumed of worms.
Lightslights (līts),USA pronunciation n.pl.
- the lungs, esp. of sheep, pigs, etc.
the newly married couple to perform your house has chosen House Of Lights. As well as its modern style but nevertheless easy, this stand already been because of several benefits such as for example may be used as a way of gathering the family, a child's understanding together, a place so forth and to place your kitchen gear.
This stand is usually along with a mini home but may also be added to another room. Pricing table can also be cheaper than different desk due to its small-size. There's no harm in listening to some style multifunctional bar table below for enthusiasm, if you like to buy this table.
The House Of Lights ideal for the modern sort of kitchen room. This mini table comes with a square appearance that is glossy to create it appear more respectable to get a pair that is young that is dynamic. Modern tables can also be more easily handled and cleaned therefore didn't commit much time a pair who are super hectic.


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The Metro young adult group is teaming up with Calvary Corvallis for our second OPEN Retreat. Join 200 young adults for an epic weekend of houseboating, wakeboarding, waterskiing, and worship in beautiful Lake Shasta, CA. The cost is only $160, which includes all accommodations and food.
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Later Event: May 18Clothing Swap


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farmers knife
farmers knife
blade is carbon steel made by will manning of heartwood forge. the two versions in these pictures are plain carbon steel and carbon steel that has had a patina applied. care for both is the same. wipe dry after cleaning.
handles are cast bronze. made by hand from start to finish.
made to order. please inquire for current lead time to email@example.com
9 1/4" long x 3/4" wide x 5/16" deep


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The First Chapter and the Last
When I was in college, in that brief interval between the foot-ball and the rowing season in which my mind was turned to books, I had dreams, very faint and illusive, but still dreams, that some day, when the four-year eligibility rule barred me from further struggles on the gridiron and the river, I should fall to work and win fame. Even at that time I was famous. My picture was almost a daily feature of the metropolitan journals, and my weight, height, and chest-measure were solemnly recorded at regular intervals for the information and instruction of the hundreds of thousands of students of that greatest of modern educators—the newspaper.[Pg 2] It cannot be frankly said that I looked for anything finer than this, but I did want something more lasting. Young as I was, I realized that the great half-back of to-day is the coach of to-morrow, and the day after the clerk in a country store, or the garrulous bore who sits about the club and talks of games long since forgotten. So I cast about for fields where new laurels could be gathered. But how quickly laurels wither! How fine they are to the eye, yet as food how unsatisfying! So I opened a real-estate office.
I went into business after much deliberation. Had I been born rich, secure in the possession of a home with a full larder, a full wardrobe, and a full stable, I should have preferred to take up brain-work and to occupy myself in one of the learned professions, but I simply could not afford it, and lacked that spirit of self-sacrifice and family sacrifice which causes men to give up all for art and science, and to go down to their graves full of honors and degrees, but empty of all else. To use a metaphor, mixed, like[Pg 3] all expressive metaphors, the pen called to me, but when I thought of Homer, of Cervantes, of Goldsmith, of Johnson, of Poe, of scores of others, gentlemen all and men of art and learning, but frayed and shabby, the roll-top desk and the revolving chair seemed safer though less glorious. Fame is won easily with the pen, but to win money you must give more than words, however fraught with wisdom and beauty—you must give yards of cotton, boxes of buttons, and tons of pig-iron and pork. Occasionally a learned scientist discovers something that brings him riches, but, if he is a true scientist, that wealth is quickly dissipated in journeys to that murky, unreal bourne where the world's genius wanders, groping, while the rest of mankind is eating grass with the animals. I wanted to wander, but was afraid. The thought of short rations held me back. Two roads were open, and I chose the easier, but the longing for the other way has never left me. Still, there is consolation, as there is consolation for everyone in this world, even to the Chris[Pg 4]tian Scientist with gout. In life it is a comfort to know that when you are gone your name is still to live, that your bust will adorn some hall of fame, and that women's clubs will haggle over the meaning of what you have written. But to live in starvation and in ignorance of your own importance, to have the laurels placed upon a marble brow—that is different. To be in bronze in a public square is well enough, but it is better by far to have yourself in the flesh in one of the broad windows of the Ticktock Club. Fifty years of terrapin and champagne are better than two thousand of honored memory. Real estate offered me the fifty years. I chose it, and the wisdom of that choice becomes more apparent daily. I know now that it profits one more to have his name signed to a thirty-foot front on Fifth Avenue than to an idyllic poem or a masterpiece of prose.
Giving up all hope of fame and setting out to woo fortune, I elected to deal in lots and buildings because of the tremendous social opportunities that offered there. Fortune is[Pg 5] better than poverty, but fortune without fashion is little so. Fashion is ephemeral fame, and those thus famous treat the poor more kindly than they do the merely wealthy. So with fortune I demanded fashion, for I was ambitious and not given to half-way measures or rewards.
You see I am frank. When I saw what would be the cost of a life of usefulness, I boldly set out to be smart. Perhaps my friend, Mr. Mudison, puts it more tersely when he places the proposition in the reverse way: If you cannot be smart, be famous. I knew that I could be smart. From my little office with its map-covered wall, from my revolving chair by the roll-top desk, I viewed the charmed circle, still very far off. But I viewed it with calm confidence that some day I should be of it. For me it had no terrors, for its history was written in the history of the country's industry, in the history of its railroads, of its mines, of its patent devices to make life worth living, and its patent medicines to make the living longer. Of[Pg 6] illusions I had none. I knew that life in the palace and life in the slum were of equal interest to him who observed, that they showed him the same humor and pathos, the same vices and virtues. Snobbery exists as much in Harlem, in Brooklyn, in Jamaica, on Grand Street or Houston as on Fifth Avenue. But if you are going to climb, it is well to reach that dizzy pinnacle where none can snub you. I climbed. Now I can drive a public coach, give a monkey dinner or a costume dance, and while the town jeers it envies, and those rail loudest on whom my door is tightest closed.
You will notice that this chapter is entitled "The First and the Last." It is the last, because it was written after I had recorded the adventures that follow, for when I had reached the climax of the story of my life and that of my friends, I found that it seemed to have no beginning. And there was a good reason for this slight omission. Setting out on my own career, I believed that there was a story in every man's life, that the Italian[Pg 7] digging in the subway had as many hair-raising adventures as the hero of a historical novel; that the clubman who walked the avenue had as much romance in him as the sprightly fellows who step through Balzac's pages. The idea grew. The future might be unfolding my own story. So one day, when wearied of rentals and repairs, of sales and loans, daily duties that seemed dull, commonplace, and futile, I turned to my pen for relief and began to set before me in black and white the history of the week. The result was not satisfactory, but I had not seen my friend Mrs. Radigan for months, and my days had been given to business and my evenings to economy. I persevered. Time passed. My weekly records offered little but dull accounts of real-estate transactions and the cynical reflections of discouraged youth. Then she came again, and with her an adventure. Dinners and dances, week-ends and weddings began to crowd themselves upon the pages that I scribbled off in this desultory fashion. I was right. A story did unfold.[Pg 8] And now I am putting first the chapter I have written last, partly to explain the rambling manner of the telling, partly to provide the missing beginning.
The beginning of the story was really that day when Mrs. Radigan entered my office, but I did not know it then, and made no full record of the event. My books tell me that it was in June, and my memory that the day was piping hot, a Friday, I think, for my partner had gone to Easthampton for a Sunday with the Van Rundouns, and I was left alone with the office-boy, cursing the fate that held me in town in such weather. I envied my partner then. Since, I have blessed the day, for it brought me Mrs. Radigan and life. He still visits the Van Rundouns.
She came in a hansom. Standing at the window, smoking a cigarette, I was listlessly watching the almost deserted street, when a two-wheeler bowled up to the curb, and the scene offering nothing better—only a few delivery wagons and antiquated traps full of families parkward bound—I noted every[Pg 9] movement of the horse, the vehicle, the cabby, and the fare. The horse went down on one leg, forward, resting easily and drooping his head to dodge the sun. As Mr. Howells or Mr. James would say in describing such an event, his right eyelid closed and his skin shivered as he shook from him an insistent fly. The jehu opened the roof-window and bawled something. A parasol, a white, filmy thing, shot out in front, opened, and came toward me with a woman appended. I could not see her face for the sunshade. I saw only her figure, a large figure clad in summery things, gauzy, fluffy, in colors bright and cheery, yet subdued and blending with the day, a paradox of some Parisian modiste. The clothes, the carriage, the delicate parasol spoke of means, and instinctively I tossed aside my cigarette and, to be frank, posed in my revolving chair, for I knew that this could not be for the tailor overhead or the music-college still a story higher.
The door creaked behind me, but I was absorbed in papers. Then the office-boy[Pg 10] spoke, and I wheeled to find her towering over me.
"Scorching, isn't it?" she said, when I had fetched a chair, and she sat fanning herself with a tiny handkerchief.
While she fanned, I observed. She was a large woman, not fat nor merely heavy, but strong and well-knit—masterful, I said at once when I saw her face and could consider all. There was health in that face, color and life, but not beauty as we judge it. The nose was too broad and tilted up, the mouth was too large, the chin inclined to corpulence; the eyes were small, but there was in them a twinkle of good-humor. Altogether I liked her immensely.
"Well," she went on after a minute, "now that I have my breath again, I shall explain. I am Mrs. John Radigan."
Instinctively I glanced across the street to a great plate-glass window bearing in golden letters the legend that within was the uptown office of Radigan & Co., Bankers and Brokers, of New York, London, Paris, and Chicago.[Pg 11] The name of Radigan was synonymous with wealth the world over. It had become so with the last bulge in the stock-market, and now hardly a Sunday passed without some paper covering a page with the story of this newest of our great fortunes, of its marvellous growth and its present lucky owner. From this I knew the story well. The elder Radigan went West in the early eighties with a tidy sum which he had accumulated as a book-maker. He had multiplied this a hundredfold by speculating in worthless mining properties, and had quadrupled that in real estate and wrecked railroads. At his death, a few years before, he had left an estate estimated by the popular writers at two hundred million dollars. Dividing this figure by four, as is necessary to get at the truth in such cases, we see that his only son inherited about fifty. But as well be on a desert island with such a sum as in Kansas City. The Radigans were wise as well as wealthy. Charming as was their home, they saw that it was no place for persons with millions.
Now you can come from Kansas City to New York to stay at a hotel or to exist. To come here to live, the way lies by London and Paris, Long Island and Newport. The dust of the plain is swept away by the Riviera breezes; London's gloom reduces the fever of life; Paris beats down the rough edges of the voice and the manner, giving finish and form. The Radigans followed the rule, but they hurried. They toured abroad, did not live there, and the dust still clung.
"You see, we have just got back, from Paris," said my visitor, impressively. "We had a villa at Cannes in April, you know, and met some very recherche people there. Our apartment in Paris was most delightful, and we should have liked to stay on, but we intend to make New York our permanent home, and thought it would be well to come over and get settled."
"So you are looking for a house," said I, pulling a bundle of papers from my desk.
"A temporary house," said Mrs. Radigan. "I don't see anything here that I should care[Pg 13] to live in continuously. We will have to build—positively have to—and Mr. Radigan is negotiating now for a block on Fifth Avenue. He managed to rent a little box on the hills near Westbury for the summer, but I am looking for something to exist in next winter while the new house is going up."
"Here is just the thing you want." The plans were unfolded before her. "It is situated on Seventy——"
"I know," she interrupted. "That is why I came to you, seeing your name on the sign. A rather decent house on the north side, three doors from the avenue, with an American basement and——"
"French windows," said I.
"And a Dutch roof—exactly," she cried. "It is stunning."
"One of the best in town," I declared with emphasis. "Thirty feet front, six stories high. It was built last January by Mr. Bull when he had wheat cornered. Subsequently the receiver sold it to my client, who took it on speculation."
"It is stunning, but small," said Mrs. Radigan. "I should not care to live in it right along, but we can all squeeze into it for a few months, till the new one is done."
"You have a large family?" I asked.
"Three," she replied. "My husband, my sister Pearl, and myself. We shall keep our boy Jack in the country."
"Why, you can have a floor apiece," I declared cheerfully. "Just look at the elevation."
Mrs. Radigan raised her lorgnette and looked, but seemed to see nothing, though her gaze was intense and her brow knitted.
"The entire fourth floor, you see, could be used by Miss Radigan," I ventured softly, to arouse her from her mood of abstraction.
"Miss Ve-al," said she, suddenly abandoning the lorgnette and getting down under bare eyes to solve the mystery of the blueprint. "Is that funny white line the design of the wall-paper?"
"It's the stairs," I explained. "As I suggested, Miss Veal——"
"Ve-al," she corrected, looking up sharply. "V-e, ve—a-l, al—Ve-al. It's French."
"Pardon me," said I abjectly. "Your sister, Miss Ve-al, could have——"
"Oh, don't bother about the old plans," she cried, gently pushing the paper from her. "It gives me a headache to try to make them out. I'm sure you had them upside down. But I'll take your word for it that there's plenty of room to live in. But how about entertaining? How can one entertain in a box like that?"
"There's a ballroom, as you see," said I, trying in vain to guide her eye to it. "Then, on the same floor, you see a large dining-room, a fair-size music-room, and a very fine salon."
"Well," she returned musingly, "as we don't know a soul in town as yet, I suppose it will hold all our friends for a while, but when we get in——"
"The new house will be done by the time you get in," I declared with considerable emphasis.
"Certainly," said she pleasantly, not comprehending the hidden meaning. "Tell me, is that old Mrs. Plumstone's house next door?"
"On the right," I replied. "The Hegerton Hummings are across the way, and the Jack Twitters have the French château on the corner."
"But some common people called Gallegher are on the other side," said she.
"My dear Mrs. Radigan," I argued, "some of the smartest people in town live on that block."
"But the Galleghers might call," she ventured after a moment of hesitation.
"Do not worry," was my retort. "This is not Kansas City. New Yorkers never call on their neighbors."
"Wouldn't old Mrs. Plumstone?" she demanded, a touch of disappointment being evident in her tone.
"Well, that explains it," she said with a sigh.
"Explains what?" I asked.
"Not a soul around Westbury has been to see me," she answered. "Do tell me, how do people get to know you in New York?"
"They don't," said I. "The question is, how do you get to know them?"
"Well, how?"
"It's very simple," I explained. "When you are buying your property, see as many real-estate firms uptown as you can, for they have some very nice young men connected with them. All the cotillon leaders are in real estate or architecture, as dancing is a branch of their business. Then there are the brokers. Some of the smartest men in town are two-dollar brokers, and surely a great house like Radigan & Co. can make it worth their while to be polite. Why, there are dozens of ways you can collect acquaintances in New York. It is easy if you know how."
"But I did not," said Mrs. Radigan rather sadly. "It has worried me dreadfully, too. Sometimes, since we have been at Westbury,[Pg 18]it has seemed as though we must be dead. Of course, one or two people there have been very nice, but they were not the kind we care to know. Evidently, you have made a study of society."
"Not at all," I protested. "It just happens that I have had a number of clients from Pittsburg."
"Oh, I see!" she exclaimed, brightening, and, rising, she took my hand effusively. "You are certainly awfully kind, and I consider myself in luck to find you. You can count on us taking the house, and I hope we can count on your being there often."
It seemed as though she was wasting no time about taking my advice, but there was no necessity of my enlightening her as to my own humble place. It would be delightful, charming, splendid, I averred, as we moved toward the door together. Simply social hyperbole, I thought at that moment. Truth, real truth, I vowed to myself at the next, when I happened to glance to the street, and there in the cab, gazing up at the office-[Pg 19]window with a frown of impatience, saw a girl's face.
"I will see you to your hansom, Mrs. Radigan," I said gallantly.
"Oh, don't bother," said she.
"I insist."
So I seized my hat, and a moment later we stood together at the curb.
"To Thirty-fourth Street ferry," she called to the cabby.
"The Long Island Railroad," I shouted at the jehu, wanting to be of service of some kind, and give reason for my presence.
The girl leaned out of the cab.
"I thought you were never coming, Sally," she said petulantly.
"This is my sister, Miss Pearl Veal," said Mrs. Radigan, not heeding her, but turning to me.
I took the tips of the proffered fingers in mine, let them drop, and bowed. I stammered something—something inane, I suppose, but the girl gave me a lustrous smile just the same.
"Warmish day," I ventured, more courageously.
"Indeed," said she quietly, but still sweetly smiling.
"Good-by," said Mrs. Radigan, holding out her hand. "You can count on me."
"You can count on me," said I firmly.
And the cab rattled away.
For months I did not see that splendid pair. They were often in my thoughts, but as a clerk from the banking office carried through the rental of the house, I seemed to be forgotten. My summer scribblings were no less dull, but more cynical than ever. A Sunday with the Van Rundouns and a two-days' stay in Morristown made the sum of my social successes. The future seemed to offer little better. But November came. The horse-show bugle called the Radigans to town, and with them brought me adventures, adventures in numbers and often strange. The records of these, made at the time when their impression on my mind was sharp and clear, are set forth in the succeeding chapters.
Categories: English Literature


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UPDATED — WASHINGTON (CNS) — In the nearly one week since the Department of Health and Human Services issued a new set of proposed rules on insurance coverage of contraceptives, serious concerns over the new rules began to emerge among the Catholic community in the United States, including the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops and some Catholic organizations.
The 80-page document released Feb. 1 by HHS attempts to address objections that the previous rules would force religious employers to stop providing employee health insurance because the federal requirement to include contraceptive coverage violates their religious beliefs. The issue has become known as the HHS mandate.
Cardinal Timothy Dolan, president of the USCCB, said in a statement Feb. 7 that over the past year the bishops had been assured by the Obama administration that church organizations "will not have to refer, pay for, or negotiate for the mandated coverage. We remain eager for the administration to fulfill that pledge and to find acceptable solutions — we will affirm any genuine progress that is made, and we will redouble our efforts to overcome obstacles or setbacks," said the cardinal.
He said the bishops' conference would submit its concerns through the formal 60-day comment process "in the hope that an acceptable solution can be found that respects the consciences of all. At the same time, we will continue to stand united with brother bishops, religious institutions, and individual citizens who seek redress in the courts for as long as this is necessary."
Cardinal Dolan listed three key areas of concern: the narrow understanding of a religious ministry; compelling church ministries to fund and facilitate services such as contraceptives, including abortion-inducing drugs, and sterilization that violate Catholic teaching; and disregard of the conscience rights of for-profit business owners. A committee of bishops pointed out these concerns in a March 2012 statement.
The cardinal said the new proposal seemed to address one part of the church's concern over the definition of a church ministry but said the new proposal "maintains its inaccurate distinction among religious ministries."
"It appears to offer second-class status to our first-class institutions in Catholic health care, Catholic education and Catholic charities," Cardinal Dolan said. "HHS offers what it calls an 'accommodation' rather than accepting the fact that these ministries are integral to our church and worthy of the same exemption as our Catholic churches."
Highlighting problems with the proposal, the cardinal said, "It appears that the government would require all employees in our 'accommodated' ministries to have the illicit coverage — they may not opt out, nor even opt out for their children — under a separate policy."
He also noted that "because of gaps in the proposed regulations, it is still unclear how directly these separate policies would be funded by objecting ministries, and what precise role those ministries would have in arranging for these separate policies. Thus, there remains the possibility that ministries may yet be forced to fund and facilitate such morally illicit activities."
Cardinal Dolan also said the proposal refuses to acknowledge conscience rights of business owners who operate their businesses according to their faith and moral values.
"In obedience to our Judeo-Christian heritage, we have consistently taught our people to live their lives during the week to reflect the same beliefs that they proclaim on the Sabbath," the cardinal said. "We cannot now abandon them to be forced to violate their morally well-informed consciences."
Some entities were quick to issue opinions on the rules, which are open for a 60-day comment period. The rules are expected to be finalized this summer.
Critics of the proposed rules included the Becket Fund, a nonprofit, public interest law firm that represents several nonprofit and for-profit organizations in their lawsuits against the federal government, which challenge the requirement of the Affordable Care Act.
"Today's proposed rule does nothing to protect the religious freedom of millions of Americans," said a Feb. 1 statement from Kyle Duncan, Becket Fund general counsel. "For instance, it does nothing to protect the rights of family businesses like Hobby Lobby."
Hobby Lobby is a craft retailer owned by a Christian family. The owners object to being required to provide insurance that covers drugs that some consider to be abortifacients. The company has sued over the requirement. Its request for an injunction to protect it from providing the coverage while the legal challenge works through the courts was rejected Dec. 26 by Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor, who covers the federal court circuit handling the case.
Among the first in the nation to criticize the proposed rules was Philadelphia Archbishop Charles J. Chaput, who in a Feb. 4 column posted on CatholicPhilly.com called it an "ambiguous compromise."
"The White House has made no concessions to the religious conscience claims of private businesses, and the whole spirit of the 'compromise' is minimalist," he said.
"One of the issues America's bishops now face is how best to respond to an HHS mandate that remains unnecessary, coercive and gravely flawed. In the weeks ahead the bishops of our country, myself included, will need both prudence and courage — the kind of courage that gives prudence spine and results in right action, whatever the cost," Archbishop Chaput said.
The Becket Fund also represents the Eternal Word Television Network and several religiously run institutions of higher education including Ave Maria University, Belmont Abbey College, Colorado Christian University, East Texas Baptist University, Houston Baptist University and Wheaton College.
The new proposals specifically said no nonprofit religious institution — including churches, universities, hospitals and charities — will have to "arrange, contract, pay for or refer for" contraception insurance for employees or students who want it.
But Duncan's statement said the new proposal "does not meaningfully expand the 'church-only' exemption — which is the real relief that our clients are entitled to under our Constitution."
Michael P. Warsaw, CEO of EWTN, also issued a Feb. 1 statement saying that the network's initial conclusions about the rules "are not promising."
He said it did not appear EWTN would qualify for the exemption, and the proposed process for self-insured entities "simply kicks this can farther down the road."
"We will continue to study this notice with our attorneys, but are highly doubtful it will provide EWTN with any relief from this immoral mandate," he said. "EWTN remains firmly committed to pressing forward with our case in the federal courts and will take all steps necessary to challenge this unjust mandate."
Others said the new rules seem to accommodate the problems that led Catholic dioceses, universities and other organizations to sue over the previous proposed rules.
Bill Donohue, president of the Catholic League for Religious and Civil Rights, a harsh critic of the previous rules, said in a Feb. 1 statement that the new rules "appear to go a long way toward rectifying the most problematic provisions of the mandate. Essentially, the rules provide insularity for Catholic institutions: They will not be directly involved in providing health insurance coverage for contraception, sterilization and abortion-inducing drugs."
He said many aspects of the new proposal need to be evaluated, but that the expansion of religious exemptions and the shift to using the Internal Revenue Code definition of eligible organizations "is a sign of good will by the Obama administration toward the Catholic community."
He said the issue of private employers who raise a religious objection to providing contraceptive insurance is unresolved, but, "because the new rules have not been finalized, and there is an opportunity for further public discussion, more progress may yet be made."
The revised rules say that employees of institutions that have been exempted from providing contraceptive coverage may receive coverage under separate policies provided by insurance companies. The rules say employers would have no role in paying for or administering the policies.
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