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Getty Images
John Isner stuns Juan Martin Del Potro to make Miami final
Big serving John Isner overwhelmed Juan Martin del Potro 6-1 7-6(2) in the Miami Open semi-finals on Friday, ending the Argentine's 15-match winning streak.
The American, who has never won at Miami, will face the winner of the other semi-final between German fourth seed Alexander Zverev and Spaniard Pablo Carreno Busta in Sunday's final.
"I'm playing the best tennis I've played in a very, very long time," Isner said in a courtside interview.
Punishing a tired del Potro with his serve and groundstrokes, the lanky American breezed through the first set in 27 minutes after securing an early break.
The players held serve in a much-tighter second set until Isner claimed the tiebreak.
Isner, who will become the top ranked American on Monday, brought up match point with a backhand winner down the line and then clinched with a sublime dropshot.
"I've just continued to keep playing better," Isner said. "I think today was even my best match. Very, very encouraging.
"Physically, I'm super-fresh and I'm ready to go for the finals."
He lost only 11 points on serve in the match, firing 13 aces to four for del Potro, who had upset world number one Roger Federer in the Indian Wells final.
Isner dominated the first set, winning three consecutive games to start the match that included the break of del Potro.
"The first set was pretty easy," the American said. "He's understandably so tired. He's played so many matches and I was a little bit fortunate to get a del Potro who was very low on fuel.
"But I knew the second set would be much tougher."
Although del Potro fought off a break point in the ninth game of the second set, Isner won the first three points in the tiebreak before clinching the match.


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Investigators have identified possible accomplices of an Afghan immigrant accused of plotting a terrorist attack on New York, a law enforcement official said Monday, but the whereabouts of the helpers or any bomb-making materials they procured are unclear.
The development comes less than a day before Najibullah Zazi is due to be arraigned in Brooklyn federal court on charges of conspiracy to use a bomb.
Court papers allege that at least three people helped Zazi buy beauty products containing peroxide and acetone in suburban Denver. The chemicals can be used to make homemade bombs, federal officials said.
The official told The Associated Press on Monday that investigators know the identities of the three people, who are from New York City. He spoke on condition of anonymity because the investigation continues.
The official would not say anything about the whereabouts of the possible accomplices or the bomb-making materials. As first reported by NBCNewYork.com last week, investigators have fanned out across the Denver area and New York City, going to beauty shops, home improvement stores and neighborhoods Zazi frequented looking for possible accomplices. As many as eight accomplices were being watched, according to sources close to the investigation.
Zazi, 24, has admitted he received weapons training from al Qaida in Pakistan. He is at the center of what federal officials said could be a plot to blow up subways or other targets in New York City. He and his father were arrested last week in Denver. Queens imam Ahmad Wais Afzali, 37, was arrested in New York and also charged with lying to the government during the terror probe.
Afzali was released last week on $1.5 million bond secured by his father's home. He will be required to submit to electronic monitoring and he can visit his mosque.
A joint terrorism task force is continuing to canvas the New York City area to see if chemicals or bomb making equipment might be stored in our area, the sources told NBC New York.
Federal officials said Zazi drove from Denver to New York on Sept. 9 and a search found him in possession of a bomb-making manual, batteries, a scale, and other equipment that could be used to make explosives.

subset: commoncrawl


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CraftyClicks UK Postal Address Lookup API
The Crafty Clicks web service gives access to the Royal Mail Postal Address File (PAF) - allows building a postcode lookup function. The RESTful API takes a UK post code as input and returns a list of matching addresses. Responses are in JSON(P) or XML format and a Java Script wrapper is also provided. The trial is free, but subscription is needed to use on a live system.


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Top Troutman Communications & Media Lawyers - North Carolina
Ryan S. Luft, PLLC | General Counsel Outsourcing
Communications & Media Lawyers Serving Troutman, NC (Greensboro)
Providing legal services on demand to business clients of all sizes, Ryan S. Luft, PLLC | General Counsel Outsourcing serves clients throughout the Greensboro area in North Carolina. Serving as a trusted legal adviser or an extension of clients' pre-existing legal teams, our attorneys offer focused counsel and dedicated representation. For the convenience of those we represent, we accept...
Here at the Lemons Law Firm PLLC in Durham, North Carolina, we are fully prepared to help you find relief from your overwhelming debt and to put you on a path to greater financial security. In addition to handling all types of consumer and small-business bankruptcy filings, our law firm offers exceptional representation in employment and entertainment law. We have extensive experience handling...


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OpenBabel is a project designed to pick up where Babel left off, as
a cross-platform program and library designed to interconvert between
many file formats used in molecular modeling, computational chemistry,
and many related areas.
This requires: jdk
Maintained by: Robby Workman
Keywords: babel,open babel,library,libraries,openbabel
ChangeLog: openbabel
Download SlackBuild:
openbabel.tar.gz.asc (FAQ)
(the SlackBuild does not include the source)
|Individual Files:
| openbabel.SlackBuild
| openbabel.info
| slack-desc
© 2006-2019 SlackBuilds.org Project. All rights reserved.
Slackware® is a registered trademark of Patrick Volkerding
Linux® is a registered trademark of Linus Torvalds
Web Design by WebSight Designs | Managed Hosting by OnyxLight Communications


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Prakesh is a keen observer of human behaviour and a devout Tina Fey worshipper. He is a good listener and will gladly listen to all your rants and raves. This job has made him shift base from the far-flung suburbs to town, and He is therefore now adapting to a new lifestyle (which is a sweet coincidence as she manages the lifestyle section at IndiaHeraldGroup) He is a TV fanatic and has watched most of your TV shows well in advance. Prakesh's favourite shows include 'Mad Men', 'Dexter', 'Game of Thrones' and everything between. His newfound passion is running and thinks that a good 30-minute-run is the ultimate key to happiness. Also, loves the sound 'hmm' a lot..
Email: -NA-
Mobile: 6300680798


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Kings Arms Beer ClubKings Arms, Keswick Cumbria
Mon, April 1st 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Beer connoisseurs rejoice – The Kings Arms in Keswick is preparing to host another superb Monday night beer club. The beer club is a unique concept combining a two or three course meal with some of the finest beers.
It happens on the first Monday of every month, and you can find out more or book a place by calling 017687 72083.
Check back closer to the time to find out more about the menu.


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The Religion Under the Romans Home Christianity Under the Byzantine Emperors
Christianity Under the Roman Emperors
Christianity was first preached in Egypt by the Evangelist Mark about thirty years after the Crucifixion. He had sailed with Barnabas to Cyprus (Acts xv. 39), and thence probably went on to Alexandria. There he appointed, as the first of a succession of bishops, Ananiah, a Jew. The succeeding bishops seem to have been Greeks; so we may suppose that in Alexandria the religion made less progress with the Jews. Indeed, how fast Christianity spread during the first hundred years, among the sceptical Greeks of that city, is unknown. But at the end of that time we find full proof of how largely the Egyptians had embraced it by our finding the extent to which Egyptian opinions were received among the Christians. Egyptian mysticism, which had found such a ready entrance into the Greek and Roman Paganism, was not harmless when it came in contact with Christianity, whether it appeared in its own dress, or concealed under the guise of Alexandrian philosophy. From the very first we hear of it as an enemy to be shunned. The Apostle Paul wisely advises Timothy to avoid the antitheses of Gnosticism, or "the oppositions of Science falsely so called" (1 Tim. vi. 20). This Gnosticism was one of the forms in which we shall presently see mysticism uniting itself to Christianity in Alexandria. The Alexandrian opinions also appear in the Canonical Epistle to the Hebrews. There Jesus is no longer the Teacher of a new Religion, as in the gospels, but he acts as a mediator or advocate before the judge on behalf of mankind, as in the writings of the Son of Sirach, and as we have seen the Egyptian lesser gods acting (in page 51), not as a mediator to persuade the sinner to repent, but to persuade the judge to forgive the sin. And his death is no longer that of a martyr to the great cause of regenerating his fellow-creatures, but it is somewhat of an atoning sacrifice, made to propitiate the judge, a doctrine which is shown on the sculpture in Fig. 70, page 51. These Alexandrian opinions were probably held by Apollos of Alexandria and Barnabas of Cyprus; and it was against some such "philosophy and vain deceit after the traditions of men," accompanied by a "voluntary humility and worshipping of angels," that Paul warns the Colossians (ii. 8; ii. 18; iv. 10). Soon afterwards were added to the Gospel of Matthew the first two chapters, giving to Jesus a miraculous birth, without an earthly father, chapters of which we have historic information that they formed no part of the original Gospel, and which receive no support from the Gospels of Mark or John, or from any of the Epistles. The first two, chapters also in Luke, the poetical chapters, though they allow Jesus to be the son of Joseph as well as of Mary, equally show their Egyptian origin. They give the circumstances attending his birth almost as if they were copied from the Egyptian sculpture in page 18, where we have seen the annunciation, the conception, the birth, and the adoration of the child, who afterwards became King Amunotph III.
In the year A.D. 160, a hundred years after Mark had landed in Alexandria, we find four bishops governing as many Egyptian churches, which had adopted Christianity in some form or other. But whenever we hear of these Egyptian Christians, they are by the Greeks called Heretics. Numbers of them had readily consented to be baptised, and to fling away the belief in their old gods. But their new religious opinions had very little in common with the religion preached by Jesus and his apostles. Their Persian conquerors, though too tyrannical to win many minds from Polytheism, may yet have helped to undermine the belief in gods whose statues the). had broken. The Greek conquerors, whose ridicule gained weight from their greater refinement, had further weakened the faith of some minds. Thus the Egyptians may have been somewhat prepared by their own doubts, though in a less degree than the Greeks and Romans, for the introduction of a new religion. But on the other hand, if the Egyptians had fewer theological doubts, they had more religious earnestness; and Christianity made its way, not only because the nations were opening their eyes to their intellectual errors, but because they were rising to an aim after more moral purity. Of the Pagan nations best known to us, the Egyptians were the most real believers in a resurrection from the dead, in a day of judgment, and in a future state of rewards and punishments. Through these doctrines a wide door was open for the entrance of Christianity. Having been polytheists, they readily received Jesus Christ as a god in the place of some of their own; and that he should have been put to death by his enemies, could present no difficulty to their minds, as the), had always been taught that their own god, Osiris, had died by, an equally cruel death. Horus, the son, during the latter century, had risen to the rank of judge, and to be thought more of than Osiris, and hence Jesus was soon thought more worthy of worship than our Heavenly Father. A dying god was one of the great facts in their religious philosophy; and though they rejected their own gods, they could by no means so easily reject their old opinions. However, the despised Egyptians, on owning themselves Christians, and submitting to baptism, were at once received as equals in the society of the Greek Christians. They were raised, not legally, but socially, from slaves to be freemen. That any of the Greeks, their masters, should take the trouble to preach to them, to persuade them, to try to win them over to their own views of religion, was an honour which they had never before received; and as they owed it to Christianity, they cannot but have been led to look upon Christianity with favourable eyes.
The new religious opinions, however, of the Egyptians had very little in common with the religion of the Apostles. They took such parts of the Gospel as suited their views, and could be fitted on to their old religion; but these rays of light they mixed up and buried under such a mass of superstition, that the Apostles themselves would not easily have recognised their own doctrines. The Christianity of the Egyptians, thus corrupted by the old Paganism of the country, shows itself in Alexandria first under the name of the Gnostic heresy. Gnosticism, that is, science or knowledge was the proud name given by its professors to a confused mixture of Greek philosophy and Egyptian superstition, to which they made no difficulty of adding Christianity. We learn something of it from the writers who oppose it, and something of it from their own sculptured gems, and something, even, from the Alexandrian coins of the emperors. As it was founded on a union between Greek, Egyptian, and Jewish opinions, it probably took its rise in Heliopolis, which was the most celebrated school before the building of Alexandria. But afterwards it spread from Alexandria to all the countries where Greek was spoken.
The peculiarities of the Gnostics very much show themselves in the attempt to explain the origin of evil--that never-failing source of difficulty to philosophical reasoners. They held the Eastern opinion of two equal and co-eternal Beings, the one the author of good, and the other of evil; that between these two there was an unceasing warfare, as between light and darkness, life and death, spirit and matter. These are the "oppositions of science, falsely so, called," against which the Apostle Paul warned Timothy. The Gnostics held that matter was essentially evil, and consequently that God could not be its author. Even the Apocryphal Wisdom of Solomon says that God did not create death. The Supreme God and the Creator of the World were with the Gnostics two different Beings, and the latter was looked upon as the God of the Jews and the author of the Mosaic law. In this scheme, the Being with whom men have chiefly to do, either in this world or in the next, is the Creator of the World, the author of evil; and we see its connection with the old Egyptian opinions, by the engraved figures on the coins and gems. On Fig. 92, an Alexandrian coin of Hadrian, we see the Serpent of Good and the Serpent of Evil, both so, common on the Egyptian monuments. The former is well distinguished by his swollen chest, but it is the latter, the Serpent of Evil, that wears the crown of Osiris as judge of the dead. On a coin of Antoninus (Fig 93) the Serpent of Evil is represented as Serapis, having the head of an old man with a basket on the top, as the great god and judge, while on. the engraved gem (Fig. 94) the same serpent has a glory round its head, and is entitled the Spirit of Evil, and underneath it is written the magical word, Abrasax, hurl me not, an Egyptian word, which the Greeks made use of, as believing that the evil spirits were better acquainted with the Egyptian language than with the Greek. From thus representing the creator of the world under the form of a serpent, some of the Gnostics were named Ophit, or Serpent-worshippers; and in giving to this Being the name of Jao, a word written on his shield in Fig. 95, they declared him to be the Jah, or Jehovah of the Jews.
Fig. 92
Fig. 93
Fig. 94
Fig. 95
Another favourite doctrine of the Gnostics was that of ons, or spiritual beings, which proceeded from the Almighty, or, rather, into which the Almighty had in part divided himself. These were seven in number, of whom one was the Christ, who came down and dwelt in the body of Jesus. This opinion of a, god dividing himself into several persons, or characters, was part of the old Egyptian mythology, as we have seen in page 12; and these seven spirits, or ons, we met with in the Greek translation of Isaiah, in page 62. The Gnostics, classing them with the Almighty as eight persons who together made only one God, worshipped them under the name of the Ogdoad, which is, the earliest system of plurality in unity that we meet with among Christians of any sect. As the everlasting God was himself Eternity, so these angelic beings which proceeded from him were called ons, ages, or limited periods of time, a name which seems to deny that they are of equal rank with the Eternal Being. And in the Epistle to the Hebrews, a book which shows much acquaintance with Alexandrian opinions, the Almighty is described as God who made the ons or ages (chap. i. 2). A later sect of Gnostics raised the number of ons to thirty.
As the hostility of Matter to Spirit was the cause of all evil, the aim of Gnosticism Was to purify its followers from the corruptions of Matter; and this Was to be done by making them more perfect in Gnosis or mystical knowledge. And hence some thought that the body was to be kept under the practice of self-denial, and by a rigid system of discipline; While others who had persuaded themselves that their knowledge was everything, despised the distinctions of the moral law, and, justly or unjustly, were accused of gross vice.
These speculative and mystical opinions, which show themselves among the Christians in the form of Gnosticism, and among the Jews and Greek Pagans in the more modified form of New Platonism, took their rise in the School of Heliopolis, where the opinions of Jews, Greeks, and Egyptians had freely mingled, and had each made some change in the others. We have spoken of the changes introduced into Christianity by this mixing together of races; but the change in the old Egyptian religion shows in itself in an approach towards the worship of one God. It was to be brought about by the help of various subtleties, without rejecting the old Polytheism, and chiefly by means of the doctrine of Plurality in Unity, by which, as We have before seen, they, readily divided one God into several persons, and equally readily united several Gods into one person. Plutarch tells us that they worshipped Osiris, Isis, and Horus, under the form of a triangle, of which Horus was the shorter side. Of these representations of the Egyptian Trinity, we have many small specimens in our museums (see Fig. 96). He further tells us that they held that everything perfect had three parts, and, therefore, that their god of goodness made himself threefold, while their god of evil remained single. On an Alexandrian coin of Trajan we see a winged sphinx, With three heads, leaning on a wheel, representing this threefold divinity (see Fig. 97). It reminds us of the Greek Cerberus, and which we might almost suppose to be the wicked Typhon, the accusing hippopotamus. Who was one of the Cabeiri, if such an opinion did not contradict the rule quoted by Plutarch, that the god of evil remained single. It reminds us also of the living creatures of Ezekiel, chap. i., each of which had four heads and four wings, except that the creature described by the prophet had a wheel for each of the four faces. And indeed the same sphinx, leaning on a Wheel, was made use of by the Gnostic Christians to represent Jesus Christ, as in the engraved gem, Fig. 98, where we see the White horse of the Book of Revelation vi. 2, "And he that sat on it had a bow, and a crown was given unto him, and he went forth conquering and to conquer," trampling down, as we see, the Dragon, or serpent of Evil, while the figure of Victory presents to him the crown or diadem of royalty. An Alexandrian coin of the 11th year of Domitian represents another vision of the Book of Revelation--namely, the Spirit of Death, in the form of a serpent, riding on the Pale Horse (see Fig. 99). As this was made after the Book of Revelation was written, so also may have been the gem, Fig. 98.
Fig. 96.
Fig. 97.
Fig. 98
Fig. 99
In the Book of Revelation, however, written in the year A.D. 69, we find many traces of the Gnostic or at least Egyptian opinions. One as in the seven spirits which were before the throne of God, in chap. i. 4, and which are again mentioned under the form of lamps, chap. iv. 5, and as eyes, in chap. v. 6. In page 80, we have shown that the writers of the Septuagint introduced these seven spirits into Isaiah xi. 2. Another Egyptian figure is in the war against the Dragon, or serpent of evil, in chap xii., which is represented several times on the sarcophagus of Oimenepthah I., made perhaps B.C. 1200, and mentioned in page 43. The description of heaven, in chap. v. 5, the Jude on his throne, the four-and-twenty elders around the throne, the four living creatures with animals' heads, the Lamb standing before the throne,, and the book-roll, would all seem in scenic effect to be copied from the Trial Scene described in page 41, though in its purpose it is very unlike. The horses' tails ending in snakes' heads we see on the gem, page 99.
The learned Greeks of Alexandria, whether Pagans or Christians, by no means held the superstitious Egyptian opinions, though certainly Greek philosophy had been not a little changed by having been cultivated for four centuries side by side with astrology, fortune-telling, priestly oracles, the Eleusinian mysteries, and the ceremonies in the great temple of Serapis. But the cold criticism and scepticism of the Museum, may have driven many minds to feel more pleasure in credulity. Clemens shows some love of mysticism in his fondness for the sacred power of numbers, and Origen in his finding am allegory or second meaning hidden under the simple history of the Bible. And the praiseworthy wish to convert the Egyptians to Christianity led to describing the new religion in terms as near as possible to the old Paganism.
Clemens, in his words, though not so much in the meaning of his words, goes a long way to meet the opinions of the Egyptian Christians. He writes in favour of Gnosticism, Science or Knowledge, and though he is far from meaning the "Science falsely so called," spoken of by the Apostle Paul, which now goes by the name of Gnosticism, yet he cannot but have given some countenance to it, by adopting the language of his mystical neighbours. He describes every good man as having it in his power to rise from being a slave, to become a faithful servant of God, then a son, and at last a God walking in the flesh. Such words were understood figuratively, as they were meant, by the Platonic Christians of Alexandria; and it is only in sound that they agreed with the opinions of the Egyptians, who had accepted a belief in Jesus by considering him sometimes a god who had been put to death like Osiris, and sometimes a son of God in the same sense as their own Horus. But these words,, though at first used figuratively, coloured the opinions of those who understood them literally.
If the Platonic Christians fancied that they were in any degree bringing over the Egyptians towards their own opinions by thus going forward to meet them, they were very much mistaken. The attempt to bridge over the gulf which separated the two opinions, did less to win the polytheists to Christianity than it did to make the Christianity of the country polytheistic. At the same time this concealing the difference between the two classes of believers, was very much driving away from Christianity the Jewish converts, who, like the Egyptians, though in an opposite direction, were equally straightforward in holding their opinions, and in the manner of expressing them.
Soon after the time of Clemens and Origen, the Alexandrian opinions again moved a step further towards the Egyptians. Dionysius, Bishop of Alexandria, after first writing against the Gnostics, who said that there were thirty persons in the Godhead, then writes to defend the new doctrine of a Trinity against Paul, the Syrian bishop, who said that God was One and undivided, and that Jesus was a man; and then again, Dionysius writes against Sabellius, Bishop of Cyrene, who, like Paul the Syrian, said that God was One and undivided, but, unlike Paul, added that he had appeared on earth in the form of Jesus. Against these opposite opinions Dionysius defended a Trinity of Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, but in so doing he by no means comes up to the Egyptian standard. He distinctly denies to Jesus any higher rank than that of the, first of created beings. His Trinity may be called the Arian Trinity, and is important as it marks one of the steps by which the Alexandrians were slowly fitting their mysticism to the Egyptian polytheism. The only advance which the Egyptians in return made towards the Greeks, was in the sect of the Docet, who were willing to get over the difficulty of a dying God, by their doctrine of apparitions. The said that Jesus died only in appearance, and hence their name of Docet, or Seemers. In the same way the Egyptians, five centuries earlier, had told Herodotus that Helen had been carried to Troy only in appearance, and that her real body had never been there. But the Greeks did not accept this view of the matter.
For the persecution of the Christians, both Greek and Egyptian, which began with the third century, we must seek all explanation in the state of the country in the years before the Egyptian rebellions. The Greek Christians had courted the Egyptians, had preached to them, had in part educated them, had raised them in their own eyes, and had made common cause with them, and thus, made them discontented under their foreign rulers. This religious stir the government tried to stop, and the persecution of the Christians was as much political as religious. The Greeks, or the Roman government, which was very much in the hands of the Greeks, would probably never have been roused into intolerance unless the peace of the country had been threatened by an increased activity of mind among the Egyptians. The rebellion which followed made a vet further change in the religion. When the rebellion broke out, the union between Greek Christians, and Egyptian Christians was broken; and when the rebellions were over, the Egyptians no longer acknowledged by the Greeks as their religious partners.
From the death of Alexander Severus, in the year A.D. 235, till the accession of Constantine in A.D. 323, Egypt was torn to pieces by civil wars between rival emperors, by the invasion of the Syrians, and yet more by repeated rebellions of the native Egyptians against the power of Rome. While the disturbances continued Greek opinions were going fast out of favour with the Egyptians; the Greek mind was losing its, supremacy, and Egyptian Christianity was henceforth to be for the most part under the guidance of Egyptians themselves. It was at the end of the third century, during the years of trouble, that the worship of the Persian Mithra, the god of the sun, was introduced into Egypt. In the Persian system of two gods, one good and the other wicked, Mithra was the god of goodness. The symbol in his worship best known is the figure of a hero, in Phrygian cap and trowsers, mounted on a sinking bull, and stabbing it in sacrifice to the unseen god, while a dog licks up the blood from the wound (see Fig. 100). This new worship received little favour in Egypt or Alexandria, and its ignorant followers were as wickedly accused of slaying their fellow citizens on the altars of the Persian god. The only part of this religion that gained a cordial welcome was the doctrine of Manicheism, a doctrine so closely akin to Gnosticism that it was hardly new. It was the doctrine of two supreme principles equally eternal and self-existent. One was mind and the other matter, one causing the happiness and the other the misery of men, one living in light and the other in darkness. This opinion, like the Antitheses of Gnosticism, had its rise in the difficulty of explaining the origin of sin, and of understanding how a merciful Creator could allow the existence of evil. The ignorant, in all ages of Christianity, have held the same opinion in one form or other, thinking that sin arose from the contrivances of a Devil, whom the All-powerful was not powerful enough to overcome, or else from the wickedness of the flesh itself. The Jews alone proclaimed that God created good, and God created evil. But the Jewish converts were now declared heretics by the more superstitious converts from Paganism, who were every year making the, standard of orthodoxy conform more and more to Egyptian ignorance, and less to Greek intelligence. Hence Manicheism and the belief in a Devil took deep hold of the Egyptian Christians.
Fig. 100
The Religion Under the Romans Home Christianity Under the Byzantine Emperors


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Hello and a warm welcome to our expat community in Brighton! InterNations is here to help you on your move to Brighton by bringing you together with other expats in the local area. Through InterNations, you can help ease your transition to your new home both online and in person. You can contact other expats through the platform, and this contact, together with the forum and guide section may help you with any questions that may arise, as well as help you become part of the local community. Additionally, you can take part in regular InterNations Official Events and Activities in Brighton to allow you to meet other expats in person.
Attend our monthly events and activities for Brighton expatriates to get to know like-minded expatriates in real life.
Get trustworthy advice and local insights from fellow members in our Brighton expat forums.
Brighton is a favorite place in the hearts of the British people. You can see this as people from across the nation flock down to Brighton's pebbled beach on every warm bank holiday. It will not take more than a walk down Brighton Pier and a dinner of fish and chips on the seafront for you to fall in love with Brighton yourself. For the general atmosphere of Brighton, you will notice just how vibrant and diverse the population is. With the local area being known as the happiest place to live in the UK, possessing a large LGBT community, holding a significant number of young people brought in by the University of Brighton, and hosting the UK's only Green Party Member of Parliament, it is not hard to see what an unusual and fantastic place Brighton is to live in.
Whether you are taking part in events and activities organized e.g. by the InterNations Brighton DinnerNations Group, or talking with other expats on the online forum, InterNations is a fantastic opportunity to help you on your transition to life in Brighton. With numerous InterNations members across the globe, you are in very good company as you find all the support you would ever need and more in this new chapter of your life. Whether you simply want to meet new people or are curious about the best schools in the area, InterNations is here to support you — so join today!


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The AA Projects Review opened on Friday 7th July, and the 10 Organisations for London proposed by Inter 10 are presented alongside 10 Fanzines, which give a more detailed conceptual and architectural desrciption of each organisations. The Fanzines are for free.
AA projects Review 2007 is from 9 – 27 July.
Monday to Friday 10am – 7pm
Saturday 10am – 3pm
36 Bedford Square
London WC1B 3ES


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USCCB report on debt deal: Bad for the poor
John Carr of the US Conference of Catholic Bishops' Department of Justice, Peace, and Human Development has little good to say and a lot of bad news on this week's debt deal in a report released Wednesday. Given the terms of the deal, I'm not surprised that the conference would be largely negative, since the bishops have continually called for making the most vulnerable--the jobless, homeless, poor, and young--the priority. And they are most certainly not the priority on Capitol Hill.
Carr's report details a poison pill even in the "good news" that half of any automatic cuts must come from "security": "In addition, one provision of the final agreement would require that roughly $4 billion be cut from "security" spending for 2013. Less well understood is that the legislation defines "security" to include not just defense and homeland security but also the State Department and USAID budgets. Under this unique arrangement, all international humanitarian, development, health, and refugee resources are in direct competition with funds for military and homeland security. This means that the already vociferous resistance to major reductions in Pentagon spending could require even greater cuts in international assistance to the sick and hungry around the world. USCCB, CRS, and our allies will have our work cut out for us."
In other words, the "security" cuts may fall on the relatively meager international aid budget and State Department rather than the fat weapons contracts that go to Halliburton, Boeing, Northrup, and the other military-industrial behemoths that gobble up so much of our national treasure. The Pentagon already has its defenders out--new Defense Secretary Leon Panetta is already warning of catastrophe if we cut the military budget further. (The Pentagon's budget has increased by 70 percent since 2001.) Panetta suggests cuts in Social Security and Medicare.
LIke last April's $38 billion in cuts, Monday's deal shows how perverse our system has truly become: Having gone to war on the national credit card while simultaneously slashing the taxes of the very rich, we must now restore balance by further slashing what is left of non-military "discretionary spending"--funding for things like roads and bridges, education, unemployment benefits--while protecting the military machine that consumes a third of our national treasure (once you factor in debt service). Entitlements may be expensive, but I'd rather live in a country with the most comprehensive health care system in the world than the one with the comprehensive "security" apparatus.
Related: Women and children last
The gospel of Ayn Rand: What's informing budget policy?
Preferential option for the Pentagon?


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In the midst of the violence in Sunday's Jersualem Day parade, there was a glimmer of hope for the region when an Israeli woman helped defend an 8-year-old Palestinian from the army's guns.
Sahar Vardi is an Israeli 21-year-old student at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and long time pro-Palestine activist. She was supporting the small Palestinian protest outside Damascus Gate when she first saw the boy.
Here she speaks exclusively to Al Bawaba about her experiences that day:
"There was a small Palestinian demonstration at the same time as the parade, just to tell people that this is not an empty city that they [the paraders] are entering.
The boy himself was holding a Palestinian flag and a settler tried to take it away from him. He wouldn't give it to him so an Israeli border policeman was chasing this boy around the Old City.
He [the policeman] literally had fire in his eyes and was grabbing and kicking at him."
At this point, Vardi felt like she had to step in and the pictures of her helping the boy have been viewed by millions on the internet.
"I just tried to stop the policeman from kicking him. Really it was about being in the right place at the right time.
For me the parade has a very clear aim: to come into an empty Old City and claim sovereignity over the whole of East Jerusalem. The message is 'here is something that is ours'"
At the big stage by the Wailing wall, Vardi said she heard speakers talk of "taking back" East Jerusalem and even cities like Nablus and Jenin in the occupied West Bank.
For her, it's vital that Israelis protest for Palestinians:
"It's our responsibility to help and protest because it's our government and our taxes that implement these policies." She said.
By Helen Brooks
How important is it for Israelis to go to pro-Palestine protests? Have your say below.
Via SyndiGate.info
© 2000 - 2019 Al Bawaba (www.albawaba.com)


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While watching the Australian Open, I saw Nicole Kidman and her husband, Keith Urban, cuddling quite a bit in the stands. They were whispering to each other, giggling, and affectionately kissing. No, not the kind of kissing where their tongues were all over and in each other. They were sweet looking and very much in […]
Entries Tagged 'Joan Rivers' ↓
Nicole Kidman cozy with hubby at Australian Open
January 21st, 2008 — Cher, Faye Dunaway, Joan Rivers, Keith Urban, Melanie Griffith, Nicole Kidman


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We invite you to join us at our 9:00am service, with powerful praise and worship, and encouraging faith-filled messages. We have ministries available for everyone in your family 0-5th Grade, including a private room for nursing moms. Come early, grab a coffee in our Great Life Café, we look forward to meeting you here. Click here to Plan Your Visit now!
Back to All Events
Earlier Event: October 3Midweek Service
Later Event: October 7Next Steps: 101


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Nondairy Chicken and Vegetable Dinner Casserole
This delicious dairy-free dish is great for dinner — bursting with color, fiber, and a little sweetness because of grated carrots and bits of red bell pepper. Vegetarians can leave out the chicken or substitute soy-based veggie chicken.
Other vegetables work well in this dish too, including green peas, cauliflower, yellow squash, asparagus, and black olives-experiment with your favorites.
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Chive Cream Sauce
4 tablespoons nondairy, trans-fat-free margarine
1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 cups plain almond milk (or your choice of plain nondairy milk or soy creamer)
1 tablespoon minced fresh chives
In a small saucepan, melt the margarine and then whisk in the flour, salt, and pepper, stirring until smooth. Cook over medium heat for 3 to 5 minutes and then remove from the heat.
Gradually add the nondairy milk, stirring until smooth. Return the pan to the heat and cook, stirring constantly until thickened, about 10 minutes. Stir in chives and remove from the heat. Set aside.
Casserole Topping
2 tablespoons nondairy, trans-fat-free margarine
1 cup crushed stuffing mix (check ingredient list for dairy byproducts) or croutons
2 cups grated soy-based cheddar-style cheese
Combine margarine, stuffing mix, and soy cheese. Reserve 1 cup of this mixture for the topping and spread the remainder on the bottom of an oiled, oven-safe 2-quart casserole dish.
Casserole Filling
2 cups grated carrots
1 1/2 cups sliced zucchini
1 cup chopped broccoli
1 cup fresh or frozen corn
1/3 cup chopped yellow or white onion
1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
6 ounces cooked, diced chicken or soy-based alternative
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Place vegetables in a bowl. Pour the Chive Cream Sauce over the vegetables, add the chicken or soy substitute, and toss well to coat.
Spoon the filling into the prepared casserole dish, and then sprinkle with reserved topping. Casserole can be covered and refrigerated until ready to be baked. Bake, covered, for 40 minutes (10 minutes or longer if the dish is taken from the refrigerator). Remove the cover for the last 10 minutes of baking. Casserole will be golden brown on top when done.
Per serving: Calories 363 (178 from Fat); Fat 20g (Saturated 6g); Cholesterol 26mg; Sodium 1,026mg; Carbohydrate 29g (Dietary Fiber 6g); Protein 20g.


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Floggings, stonings could begin in Pakistan's scenic Swat valley
MINGORA, Pakistan — A hundred miles northwest of Islamabad, Pakistan's capital, the Swat valley offers a chilling vision of what much of the country could become.
Where tourists once frolicked, extremists are laying the groundwork for religious courts to dispense brutal punishments under their harsh interpretation of Islamic law.
The leader of the group, Sufi Mohammad, said penalties including flogging, chopping off hands and stoning to death must be available to Swat's Islamic courts.
Floggings are the proper punishment for sexual intercourse between unmarried people, drinking alcohol and slander, Mohammad said. Thieves should have their hands chopped off, except for poor people who steal to feed themselves. The punishment for adultery is death by stoning.
"These punishments are prescribed in Islam. No one can stop that. It is God's law," said Mohammad, sitting on the floor in his makeshift headquarters in Mingora, the regional capital. Mohammad, the head of the Tehreek-e-Nafaz-e-Shariaht-e-Mohammadi, or Movement for the Enforcement of Islamic Law, spoke in a rare interview with McClatchy.
An aide, Ameer Izzat, hurriedly added that tough criteria must be met for such sentences. For adultery, there must be four witnesses who saw the act of penetration, he said.
Swat, once known for its orchards and mountain streams, is the first region in mainstream Pakistan to be taken over by extremists. A leader of the Swat Taliban told McClatchy that Swat is a test case and the Taliban want Islamic law, or Shariah, introduced throughout the country.
Mohammad, who speaks softly and looks deceptively like a genial old uncle, with a flowing white beard and thick spectacles, reached his position when the Pakistani army capitulated in February after a two-year military assault on the former tourist destination by extremist Taliban.
In exchange for peace, the government agreed in talks with Mohammad to institute Shariah.
All that it takes to introduce the new system is for Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari to sign off on it. Zardari has hesitated, however, possibly under pressure from Western countries, which have been highly critical of the deal.
Mohammad said time was running out for Pakistan to implement the deal. He warned that if the promised new courts aren't fully operational soon, he'll abandon Swat. That would leave the area once more to the marauding Taliban, who announced a cease-fire in response to Mohammad's deal with the authorities.
"Our responsibility is to maintain the peace. When the demand (for Shariah) is met, the Taliban will put down their weapons. We will see to that. But if the government doesn't agree to implement the deal, we will just go," said Mohammad, speaking in Pashto, the regional language. "Then I don't know what will happen."
Mohammad has renounced violence and appears to have influence over the Swat chapter of the Taliban, which his son-in-law, Mullah Fazlullah, heads.
Despite the "peace deal," the Taliban are far from quiet. This week in Swat, they forcibly occupied the house of a member of parliament and overran an emerald mine. If Mohammad left, however, the Taliban almost certainly would start full-scale fighting again.
The government is gambling that Shariah will split the Islamists, bringing the "reconcilable" Taliban on board while isolating the hard-core. However, Mohammad is a former jihadist who led thousands of young Pakistani men into battle against the invading U.S. and international forces in Afghanistan after 9-11, and his loyalties are unclear.
"I would not say we're heading for normality, but this is the first peace we've had here for two years," said Khushhal Khan, a senior administration official in Mingora. "This place was a war zone."
The Taliban had banned girls' education in Swat and prohibited women from shopping. Since the peace deal, those schools are open again and shops have taken down signs that barred women, but residents have few illusions about who's won.
"Ninety percent of the people of Swat wanted the militants to be defeated by the Pakistan forces, just eliminated. But that was wishful thinking," said Zia-ud-Din Yusufzai, the headmaster of a private school in Mingora, who thinks, as many Swatis do, that the Pakistani army was unwilling to fight the Taliban.
"For us, a doubtful peace is far better than a doubtful war, where the parties were not known, their aims were not known," he said. "Swat has been assigned to the militants."
Masked Taliban gunmen are no longer on the streets of Mingora. Residents no longer wake up to find their neighbors hanging from poles in the squares of the city. The bazaar is bustling once more, though with few women. The atmosphere is edgy, however.
The Swat peace deal required the Taliban only to stop displaying their weapons, not to disarm or surrender. Some of the men in the Mingora market and elsewhere in Swat are bound to be Taliban, carrying hidden guns. They've just melted back into the population. Kidnapping for ransom is on the rise, and few people venture out after dark.
At Mingora's courts, there is chaos. The new Islamic judges are sitting but aren't yet authorized to hand down sentences, pending a presidential signature on the peace deal, and procedures haven't yet been worked out. Litigants mob the courts, shouting, jostling, pushing. There's little paperwork, and no lawyers are involved.
Aftab Alam, the president of the Swat lawyers association, said that the creaking colonial-era legal system needed to be speeded up, not replaced.
"They (the Taliban) want to establish a complete autonomous state. That's the real agenda," Alam said. "A utopian empire, a Taliban empire. Sometimes utopias become real."
The Swat Taliban are waiting on the sidelines. Their spokesman and key commander, Muslim Khan, said by telephone from an undisclosed location that his group would see to it that Shariah was implemented, "whether the government likes it or not, 100 percent."
Khan added: "Swat is a test case. After this, it (Shariah) should be brought in, in the whole of Pakistan. How can we have British law here? It is the task of the Taliban to make them agree. It is our right. Ninety-five percent of the population is Muslim."
(Shah is a McClatchy special correspondent.)
Pakistani warlord threatens to launch attack on Washington
Pakistani police fight off attackers at training center
Pakistan military endorses another Taliban truce - with a difference
Militants' sudden unity threatens Obama's Afghanistan strategy


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During a recent conversation with a neighbor about how we get along so well while our cats are engaged in a crippling turf war over the herb garden, I offered to use Facebook to send her a meme related to the topic we were discussing. She subsequently uttered were five words I haven't heard in years:
"I don't have a Facebook."
"But you do have a computer, right?" I thought sarcastically.
She isn't making some bold anti-establishment statement; she just hasn't seen the point to setting up an account. I've had a Facebook account since early 2007, and I've seen it go through many iterations, mishaps and scandals, but I still use it all the time. Yet the apparent chasm between Facebookers and the rest of the world got me thinking: If you're not on it already, are you better off without?
I could either coax my neighbor into joining the site – forever making it one of those things "Leo told me to sign up for," or accept that Facebook might have drifted so far from its useful origins that it's not worth joining anymore. After some consideration, I'm prepared to say my neighbor – and anyone not already on Facebook — is better off without it.
Look on the bright side
Before I enumerate some of the reasons to stay off Facebook, let's take a more optimistic look at what brought most of us to it to begin with.
Informal sharing is the cornerstone of the Facebook experience: If you're not on it, you're missing out. The site has definitely created a new form of communication online that you're inherently not a part of if you're "off-grid". It wasn't the first social network, but it refined the experience. While MySpace embraced glittering backgrounds, Flash and seemed to crash IE 6 with startling regularity (OK, maybe that wasn't just a MySpace problem), Facebook rode the minimalistic design wave that swept through the early 2000s. It provided little customization. Your profile can be any color you want, as long as it's purplish blue and white. It is easy to find people, and the "friends you may know" algorithm is fantastic – disconcertingly accurate, if nothing else. Moreover, it has the killer feature that all good technology should: The more you use it, the better it becomes.
Facebook provides a means of instant communication that doesn't really exist outside of the social network sphere. You'll stay up to date with memes, other peoples' lives, and your favorite sites. Contributing can give you a bit of an ego boost too – if you post something publicly, there is a chance it'll "turn into a virus" (to quote Jennifer Aniston) and spread accordingly. If you're not on Facebook, you're missing out on all that.
To allow non-initiates a glimpse into the brave new world of crudely drawn (and even more crudely captioned) memes, there is always the option of emailing them, as my neighbor suggested.
I could, but that seems like a lot of effort for a meme. Emailing a link requires me to get my mail open, type in an email address, add an attachment, and have you hit refresh on your end for a few minutes. Posting an image on your wall requires me to type in the first three letters of your name and paste in the link. I don't have to type in a subject or description; Facebook automatically pulls that data for me. Even better, our friends can like it — a small sign of approval in the Internet age that always makes you feel good. None of that can occur through the point-to-point communication of email. Emailing photos and videos seems like a step backward into the endless chain letters of the late 1990s. So, score one for Facebook: I'm far more likely to be in contact with you if you're on my friends list. It's just easier.
Now stay away
Clearly I use Facebook, but I don't like it as it exists today; it's cluttered, tired, and bloated. It used to be bursting with articles I wanted to read and interesting tidbits from friends lives. Now, I begin to lose faith in humanity when I see what people (whom I had assumed were good, wholesome folks) are really watching on Socialcam. What was a useful destination is now more an unwanted trip to visit a distant relative, who remembers everything about you, and also happens to be a hoarder.
So if you're not on Facebook, why should you stay away? In a nutshell: because you've made it this far.
One major gripe with the social network is privacy. Almost yearly, you can guarantee there will be a privacy fiasco of some sort. I won't touch on this much because we've all heard it before, and my opinion is that Facebook can only give away as much personal data as you agree to hand over. But it has gotten pretty good at asking. Facebook pushes users to share more data, which they do; then there is a media outcry; then we realize the new features are useful, and we wait for the cycle to refresh. It's almost as if it's planned that way! What a crazy notion.
Privacy aside, another issue is information overload. The mighty newsfeed: initially an uproar, it is now the core experience of Facebook. The newsfeed provided an excellent, single point on the Internet where you can peruse a highly personalized selection of media from both individuals and websites. Provided. I used past tense there.
Today, the newsfeed is so cluttered and messy that it isn't useful at all. The space I used to get most of my news is now an overdose of app requests (a virtual farm? What!?), spam, and useless updates from brands. I'm now as likely to miss updates from Facebook friends as I am to miss ones from people not on the network, because it falls into the background noise. For example, I must have told Facebook I "liked" a certain brand of energy drink, years ago. I don't now need to see how totally frickin' awesome their sponsored aerobatics team is, three to four times a day. Facebook was supposed to cherry pick items you'd like, and place them in the newsfeed. In an tragic, cycle-of-life display of redundancy, you now have to sift through the newsfeed to find interesting things.
Another reason I ultimately warned my neighbor to stay away: You'll never leave. Kicking the Facebook habit isn't easy – you'll have become so dependent on it that you won't have a backup means of contact for many people, losing contact with them forever. The company doesn't want you to leave, naturally. Trying to deactivate your account (not delete, deactivate – like leaving a xenomorph in stasis rather than blasting it out the airlock) leads you to a page where a selection of your friends you interact with frequently say they'll "miss you," as if leaving Facebook will have some catastrophic effect on your relationships in the real world. You are also required to give a reason as to why you're going. They make you try and feel lame for leaving a kickin' party early… and it works.
A one-way street
Non-users should just stay away from joining Facebook. The site has become so embedded in the online experience that it's difficult, if not impossible, to fully tear oneself away from the infinite stream of pictures, posts, and pokes after you step into it. While that may seem enticing to some, it has reached a point where signing up will thrust you into a confusing, overloaded world that you might not be prepared for. Especially given, at this point, everyone you know is already a power user, patiently awaiting for you to click on that invitation email that has been sitting in your inbox for months. If you've successfully navigated life for the past five years without help from Zuckerberg, congratulations. Proceed straight to Go and collect $200. If not, get back there. Your FarmVille crops are thirsty.
The views expressed here are solely those of the author and do not reflect the beliefs of Digital Trends.
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Call 219-392-9789 or Request an Appointment
Established Security Service in Tinley Park, IL
Alarm Illinois is a Tinley Park, IL, security service company with a knowledgeable, professional staff that's ready to help you protect your property. If you're not sure what the right combination of services and equipment might be for your circumstances, we can show you what products are available and how they fit together to provide the protection you desire. Our team delivers prompt, punctual installation work for both residential and commercial customers.
Our goal is to keep each of our clients safe and secure no matter what their personal requirements are. Whether you need to protect your family or you want an extra layer of security for your employees, we can offer you a wide variety of security solutions. The product inventory we have access to includes:
- Security alarms
- Video surveillance items
- Camera equipment
- Access control systems
- Home Automation
The Tinley Park, IL, security service we offer is designed to safeguard and protect your loved ones and your assets. You deserve to feel confident and comfortable in your daily surroundings, and we can help make that happen. Contact Alarm Illinois today to set up an on-site consultation.
High quality service
I love this company they are great fast good service good employees good prices high quality materials excellent job
Professional, Knowledgeable and Top Notch Customer Service!
We received a free consultation to determine a customized system designed and tailored to meet our specific needs. The integrity of the owners (David and Julie) is something you will not find anywhere else. Very trustworthy and friendly. They will not upsell or steer you into purchasing any unwanted equipment or services. We were amazed to discover that the alarm equipment could be integrated with many other devices - all easily managed via smart phone app. From consultation to installation, we received the utmost professional, courteous, and "over the top" customer service. Whether you are seeking the latest in security systems, video surveillance or other smart automation technology for your home or business, Alarm Illinois is simply the BEST!
It's been less than 24 hours since the installation and set up. I will need a week to make a valid decision about the alarm set up. What I can say, the installer was very polite, efficient and professional. He took his time with the tutorial about the system and its use by asking questions as to what we need and desired. He or an associate will be back next to add something to the alarm system. I am expecting that we will be very pleased with decision we made to contract with Alarm Illinois.
The best customer service ever.
Alarm illinois is amazing
Thank you so much for the new alarm system and service. David and his whole Alarm Illinois crew really went above and beyond, great customer service and expertise! We love feeling safe with our new home security system !
Great Service . Nice System .
Illinois alarm
I wish all companies were as great as Illinois alarm, from the staff who answer the phones to josh, jack and especially David I have never been so happy with a company. They take care of your issues in a timely manner again I recommend Illinois alarm to everyone
Amazing installation. Couldn't have asked for more!
Incredibly professional. Robert and Josh did a fantastic job installing my alarm system and light controls. Extremely knowledgeable, courteous, and quick. Really appreciate their work ethic and passion for the product.
Service & Support
I have hundreds of locations being handled by David and his crew. Fast, professional, understanding, reliable ... this is the group to do business with!
Met with Dave he explained everything he had to offer. We worked out a package that fit our needs. Jim our technician was great took care of the installation and answered all our questions. Dave and Jim thank you both for looking out for our family.
Very professional installation
We moved to a new house and we were very happy that Dan will cover our area. All our neighbors have ADT, but we liked your service at our old home for over 6 years. Thank you Dan!
Couldnt ask for better service
I have alarm Illinois for both my home and business. Great service. Derrick answered all my questions and very efficient
Great service
Dan was great. Thanks!
Excellent professional Installation
Our Alarm technician, Sam, was very professional. He was very informative, patient with my questions and most of all, did a clean job on my new home. I am very impressed with the conviences and immediate visibility with the App. I consider myself a very happy customer and Thank you Sam for doing such great work!!
So far so great...
I met them at a home show. Their prices seemed too good to be true, but they installed the free equipment and the contract showed the price they promised. I called with questions, and they were very patient. I love the app on my phone and the doorbell camera!
Excellent Service, Great Communication, Great "Product"
Consumer Custom Alarm is a great firm. Their service technicians are excellent and dedicated to servicing the customer. The office staff is easy to work with and they listen to the customer. Alarm.com provides excellent seamless connectivity between the 2GIG panel and the central monitoring station. The central monitoring station is there when needed. Their response time is minimal; they seem to be on top of the situations that may occur.
Dan was awesome! Very polite, professional, and easy to talk to! Very satisfy with the work and love the alarm! I will definitely recommend this to others!
Great service
Great service
High Quality Service
I was extremely pleased with the service, the company and the alarm system. By far exceeded my expectations!
Superior, Professional and Friendly Services
I was very pleased with Dan's presentation. His explanation of services provided by Alarm Illinois and the operation of the equipment was so clear that I had very few questions before, during and after installation. I feel much safer in my home. I would definitely recommend Alarm Illinois to others.
Excellent Service
The whole team was very professional and helpful. They came in and guided us along the way. They responded immediately with any questions or concerns we had. Made us feel very safe and knowing they are there at all hours is a comfort. Not dealing with a big corporation. I would highly recommend to everyone!!!
Great installer, great teacher of the system
I would definitely recommend this service to others. Couldn't ask for better service or more respect for our home and us "older people". Anyone can operate this system. Simple to use.
Our experience with Alarm Illinois was very positive and pleasant. David, our salesman was very well informed and presented his self, his product and service very professionally. Jack , our installer was friendly, efficient and treated our home as he would have treated his own. Both of these people did a thorough job of explaining and instructing us on the system installed. Everything works great we are very pleased and would highly recommend this company. We also have a second home equipped with an alarm system. This one is far superior!
Wonderful Company!
Lisa, David and their team provided us with wonderful customer service and an excellent product. They exceeded our expectations.
Great Service, Best Price, and Best Equipment.
Eric was my installer. David was my sales person. Both are very knowledgeable and explained all my options in great detail. The complete process was easy and was ext satisfied in the end. Thank you for making it a great experience for me. Would highly recommend.
They are a good people, good services . They are the best
I love my new alarm
Great value
On time and professional
High Quality system, very friendly staff and Customer Service is First
David came and gave a demo with the system . He explained everything thoroughly and how much everything will cost . No hidden fees or charges . They will tell you upront the exact price after tax .
Professional and friendly.
I highly recommend this company. The technician was timely and friendly. He installed the alarm and ensured that I understood how to operate all aspects of it properly. He was very professional, yet personable.
Alarm Illinois is Amazing!
I am so happy with my alarm and camera installation. The owners are kind and intelligent, and so are the techs. Professional from start to finish. I highly recommend this company to my friends and family.
Dan installed our alarm system. He was very patient and explained everything and let us try the system so we would not be nervous using it. He explained to all 3 of us together and separately. We so appreciate the great service we received from Alarm Illinois. Thank you so much.
Excellent all around
Beginning with the sales process, executing the purchase and the installation and follow-up afterwards/customer service everything was great. Thank you!
Very Professional and Great Service!
The Installer Eric came to my house and installed the system in a very professional manner. The system I was replacing was from "Simplisafe". Alarm Illinois equipment is far superior. I did not expect the capabilities of the new system to be too much different from my current system. The equipment capabilities from Alarm Illinois is far superior to the current system I had installed. As a real estate agent I'm familiar with a variety of service providers. The system from Alarm Illinois I would recommend over Comcast or ADT two of the bigger names in the business. After the system was installed I called with a question and they were very responsive. The system is intuitive and very easy to operate even in the dark. My previous system you needed a flash light!!
HIGHLY recommend based on solid 4+ years experience
Been doing business with Alarm Illinois for about 4+ years. They have installed/monitored alarms at my residence and at 6 different rental properties throughout the years. Our Tenant loves the user friendly system and praises tech's professionalism on occasions when adding/upgrading alarm. Techs are very knowledgeable about programming equipment and willing to give on hand tutorial and suggestions on how to best use the alarm based on individual circumstances. I thoroughly use almost every aspect of alarm features (z-wave, thermostat, camera, limited access, multi-property management on website, etc.) and never had a problem with malfunctioning equipment. Techs are also accommodating to work around your schedule for appointments. Monthly monitoring prices are very reasonable considering the high quality customer services, equipment, and monitoring they provide. Whenever the need arises for obtaining an alarm system, the first thought is to automatically call Alarm Illinois. I have also seen this company grow and develop over the years so obviously they are making positive strive in the industry. I hope they continue providing high level customer service and quality installation and equipment that separates them from other alarm companies.
From our first meeting with Robb our sales associate to Robert our installer this experience has been one of the best informed and trustworthy. The transformation from old technology to new was very easy and rewarding at the same time. Thank you for making our home safer and our life's more at ease and peaceful.
They were very helpful and professional. The system is perfect for our office and team members!
Love it
I love the product they are using. I love their technicians and the knowledge they have. On time. Seem like they really put the customers first.
Great service, extremely helpful!
Smooth installation and easy product to work with
Everything went well, the install was smooth and the website & app are easy to use
Great system. App is great.
Absolutely the best service I have ever received
Highly professional most pleasurable experience the system is absolutely great thank you guys
High quality service and true professionals
From sales procesd to the install they are true professionals that care about the safety of your property and well being. No pressure and no upselling just design to secure your family. I highly recommend this team.
Timely, professional and thorough
We just had our system installed with Alarm Illinois. We had a great experience with David (sales) and Dan (install). Their pricing was very competitive with other companies and they offered a great value relative to some of the big-name providers. Dan did a great job at our install - he was on-time and thoroughly understood what we wanted done before he set everything up. Would easily recommend them.
Quick turn around easy to work with and no pressure!
Alarm companies generally try and pressure you into a quick sale and complicated contracts. I spoke to Lisa who was able to get together service tailored to my specific needs easily and quickly without any fuss. I have only had service for exactly one day at this point but so far it has been great and they have been very responsive.
Alarm and Cameras
Overall I am happy with the overall result. There was a miscommunication on what cameras was being install, which cause several hours of daily on the install while the correct cameras were picked up. The installers were polite and did not have any problems answering my numerous questions. I did have 2 cameras that don't function as well as the others at night, so I called and they are being replaced
Great Service and Product All The Way Around
After seeing the product and speaking with Al the representative, I was very interested and signed up. The installation was seamless and very professional. Very satisfied with end result. I recommend them to anyone looking for a great wireless alarm system.
alarm illinios
Great job of installation and explanation of services. System has worked well for us lost app for my phone and need to get that back as it makes it easier.
Excellent service and a good value
I have been recommending this service to local businesses. The owner did the install and he was very personable and accommodating. The service has more bells and whistles and cost less then my old provider.
Great company. Very responsive to customers needs and inquiries! I had an alarm concern and was contacted immediately.
Alarm Illinois has always been right there when I e needed them...kind, caring and courteous...wouldn't use any one else...
I love my alarm and all the options and things I can control from my phone app !
Best Alarm Company Ever!
I have been with Alarm Company for more than a year! Personally. The alarm system and the panel itself is very up to date and looks very contemporary unlike ADT's alarm panel. I They are also very good at getting the job done quick and always responds back in a timely manner when I have questions. I have referred this company to my dad's company which will be great for them in regards to long term investment. They will not only be taking care of the alarm system, but also installing Cameras. I will continue to refer this company to any friends, or businesses I have connections with. Very Very pleased with David and Lisa. :)
I would recommend this crew to anyone and I have. They are there for you when you need them, not when they can fit you in. Plus , a real person answers the phone not multiple recordings and wasted time. I had ADT for 21 years and they suck , they would not even do any upgrades to my system after all the years I paid them more money per month than I do this company. Also, this system is 10 times better. Tom Catalano Sr. Tommy's Guitars & Trading Post
very positive review
nothing to complain about , period .
I absolutely recommend service from Alarm Illinois!!!!
Top-Notch Professionalism
The Team at Alarm Illinois handled our alarm company switch out without a hiccup. They assured us things would go smoothly and we rolled along with them. From sales to support & installation - they are a class act.
I am very pleased with the prompt service I received. My alarm is working perfect. Thanks Dianne
Customer Servuce is Great and so is the equipment.
The 2-GIG alarm system is like the iPhone of alarms. So much better than the LYNX it replaced. It is so easy to use and does so many things. The free smartphone app lets me be sure everything is safe and sound at home and even turn it on when I forget to be fore leaving home. Back in April it let us know when there was a tornado warning for my area Customer service has not been an issue because everything just works the way it should. I'll never go back to ADT. .
Excellent service and top of line products
David provided excellent feedback on our needs, and recommended a system that is easy to use, flexible for our needs, and fairly priced. He took the time to answer all our questions and to make sure we were satisfied with our install. We really like the add on possibilities and the website ease for programming changes.
Very satisfied with service to date. It is easy to use and very reliable.
Satisfied and more secure customer!
After having somewhat of an emergency situation happen at my home I began to research alarm companies and found very disappointing results. Most of the companies that I found offered small promises and services for an alarming rate, not to mention half of the time I called to inquire further I got an automated system or a person from a different state. I found alarm.com and immediately called, all of my questions were answered and I was given a rough estimate as to how much cameras would cost because my home is visible through Google earth. Due to the emergency that had occurred at my home Lisa was very understanding and David the owner himself came to my home the very next day and explained how the service and equipment worked entirely. Having some knowledge and past experience with security systems myself I could tell how knowledgeable was and that he truly does offer the most current equipment and technology available, I was also very impressed with David's professionalism. After deciding to get a motion sensor, cameras, and a few window contacts an installer came to my house over the next few days and again my expectations were met by 100%. Over 1 month later I can say that I am very pleased with service and my decision to go with Alarmillinois.com. The security cameras are easy to use and I can view my cameras from my phone or on my television anytime. I feel much more secure as a result of the system being installed. The service also didn't stop after the installation as with most company it does, I needed to call the installer a few times and I was able to reach him on the first attempt every time and get my questions answered. Thank you David, it's no exaggeration to say that Alarmillinois.com is one of the best alarm companies in the business.
Good alarm company
Good rates, knowledgeable people, great deals, they can help promptly if there is a billing or other problem.
Happy consumer
While visiting my daughter recently, she was showing me her new alarm system, I absolutely loved the options she had, I had her call for me & set up an appointment. The next day I had David out who went over every feature, function, price etc. Needless to say, I had the alarm system installed, th installer was very professional, prompt (he called to also say he was on his way prior to arriving) efficient & picked up after himself! He took the time to explain how every thing worked, helped us set up our codes etc, We are extremely satisfied with the system! We don't have as much stress now when we leave the house! we get notified each time the door is opening!
Great Customer Service
This is a great company to do business with. This was my first experience with an alarm service and I was not let down. Thank you for your prompt and courteous service!
Everything was Timely and Professional
I just had my 2nd business alarm system installed with Dave and everything has always been timely and professional. They are prompt and clean up after themselves. They do a good job training and setting up Apps so I can check my cameras on my phone.
I have so far had a great experience with the company, installers, sales rep. Even the person on other end of system when we set it off on accident (oops).
I love the alarm system even though ive set it off by accident a few times u have great people working for u Brian R. Long
Great system with great price
We met with the owner and I was most impressed with his honesty in going over our options. He told us what he recommended and didn't try to sell us to buying a bunch of extra things we didn't need. We had a same day install and the system is extremely user friendly. There are a variety of options that will most certainly meet each individual's needs. I would say if you're in the market for an alarm system give them a try! Highly recommended.
Everything was great.
My total experience, from the salesman to the installer was wonderful. The salesman told me straight up what was included, and what was not. There would be no surprises when the installer came out with "extras", that I could buy if I wanted to be "totally" safe. Even though the installation took a while, he was conscientious of my time and attention. I would recommend this company to anyone. Job well done!
We are very happy and feel secure.
Very satisfied customer
Dan installed my alarm was very professional, honest and courteous. He explained in detail how to use the new system to both myself and my 89 year old mother. I love the feature where you can activate the alarm w/my remote. Even after the installation I called him w/questions and he responded expeditiously. I still had a contract with another alarm company and they paid out that contract. I am very pleased with Alarm America and will definitely recommend it. Thus far no problem -- just good service and a satisfied customer..
home owner
Great value for the money.
Service excellent. installer was very professional and helpful.
Good reputable business!!
These guys do a great job!! I have already recommended them to two other people. Very happy with the service and quality of work. They do what they promise.
awesome service and best alarm
We love this alarm so so cool. Love how we can set and turn off from phone. Love the customer service too. We've had about every other brand of alarm company over the years. But this one is so so superior.
Great Group of Folks
Have been very responsive and willing to help. Could tell they wanted our business and have not ever let us down!
Great Job
Perfect system, great customer service, and an amazing value. They did such a great job on my house I hired them to come and wire my office building as well. I highly recommend.
I've been a customer for a little over a year and I can't tell you enough how wonderful these people have been to work with. They came in to my existing business to try and upgrade my alarm and CCTV system. They were open and honest about what equipment I should keep and what I should replace. Instead of making a sale on new products, they had the customer's bottom line in mind!?! Who does that these days... Only good and honest people that's who! The install technicians were knowledgable, punctual, and efficient. They also take care of my alarm monotoring and they've even called when sensors have gone out without me even knowing it. It's a good feeling when you have good people on your team, and these are GREAT people to have! I have referred them to 2 separate friends for their businesses and both have had similar experiences! I apologize for this winded review, but it gives me a warm feeling to write a pleasant review instead of a review filled with complaints.... I would recommend this company, their staff, and the equipment they use to anyone! Hence... GREAT company and GREAT service.
Top Service Ever!
I have had two other very large companies previous to Alarm Illinois. Neither gave me the availability, help or service that I have received consistently from Alarm Illinois. When I had it installed, the technician patiently showed me everything I needed to know, he answered my many questions too. I have been with them for a year and a half now. The ease of the panel compared to the others is a real improvement. I had a contact window in the garage freeze up last winter and the service consultant came out immediately, replaced a battery and there was no cost. The panel has warned me of threatening weather also. I am grateful to be with this company. I will always highly recommend it.
Best kept secret
Love the service! From the functionality to the customer service that is provided. I love that even my kids can easily use the touchpad. I can also set the alarm even after I've forgotten to do it before leaving the house. There are great features, which tells you the forecast, severe weather alerts and even if I aaccidently left a door or window open. I highly recommend this service to anyone who is looking for a quality program with exceptional service.
We had an existing alarm system with most of the first floor and basement windows and doors hardwired to the alarm system and the second floor windows connected wirelessly. The system connected to a central alarm service using our land-line telephone service. Alarm Illinois installed new hardware and equipment that interfaced with our existing hardwired and wireless sensors. The new control unit and ancilary hardware along with an additional keypad and button key-ring-remotes now make using the alarm system easy and convenient. Additional smoke detectors and carbon-monoxide detectors were installed. The new equipment communicates with the central alarm service using cellular type technology. Alarm Illinois did an excellent job installing the equipment, programing the hardware and setting up the central alarm service. They were accomodating and responsive to our requests and concerns. Their approach was pleasantly flexible. They were careful and did the entire job wihout requiring any decorating touch-up. The installers carefully tested and checked-out the operation of the system before considering the installation finished. The equipment has worked without any problems since it was installed. We needed a new battery in one of the smoke detectors and Alarm Illinois sent it to us (along with a few spares) within a day or so. Access to the system over the Internet and on our iPhones has proven to be very convenient. We now have increased functionality and better security and safety. And, we are saving money monthly. Thanks Alarm Illinois.
Pleasantly 'alarmed'
We have only had our system for a couple months but so far I am very happy with it. I particularly like the app on my smart phone so I can check to see if I activated the alarm and if not then I can do it remotely.
Great company to do business with.
After speaking with numerous different companies, we decided to go with Dave and Alarm Illinois. More than reasonable monthly fee..professional installation and continued support if needed after. Installer took his time but made sure all our needs were met. Dave made a follow up visit to make sure we were happy with product and service. Cameras and alarm system are all top of the line. Would highly recommend to any size business..big or small.
From the beginning til now, I have nothing bad to say...from day one everyone has been polite, courteous and caring...installation was a breeze...
Excellent System!
This is the best alarm system we have ever had! The sensors work well; help is readily available in a polite, professional manner. I like the fact that I can talk to the people thru the monitoring control panel. The remotes work well and are easy to use. I like the fact that I can program my lights and front door lock. I also like the fact that the lights can go on and off in a range of times, not always at the same exact time. We have not had one false alarm! So glad we chose this company! It is well worth the monthly fee; we have a lot more peace of mind.
Overall Great
There were a few glitches with the camera being disconnect so I couldn't live stream. Other than that everything works exactly as promised.
Great Equipment and Service
Salesman took time to understand our needs. we've had two other alarm companies and this is the best.. The install tech was on time, polite and did a very nice job. Th 2GIG panel is easy to use and we love the phoneapp. If we forget to arm the alarm we can set it whne we remember. The weather warning feature has been very useful this summer with all the crazy weather.. We were alaways worried with the old system that we'd screw up and have a false alarm. But this is supper easy to use.
Salesman was well versed and informative. The installer was great, spending the necessary time and effort to do the installation and explaining the equipment. I had followup questions a few days later and he was quick to return my calls and had the answers. My only issue is this is the only correspondence I have received since the install. A followup call periodically would be good, just in case I had any questions or concerns.
Very reliable service .would recommend to others.
there are many and there are few
Many companies out there advertise you to death, and there are others that are so much better positioned to serve your needs. Customer service and equipment choice are my two selection criteria. Are they willing to work with you to address your requirements. Bottom line I found all that with Alarm Illinois. Say no more!
This is been an excellent experience and I would prefer this company to any friend or family member
Installation and sales
both the installer and sales person was great. So far love the service.
Great Service
David was great and explained everything, Josh who put in our system, was polite , clean and very thorough in explaining how to use all of our devices from our Smart Phone, We have a dedicated account manager that called us to ask how are overall experience was - and that she was the person and gave us her cell phone #for all needs in the future for our alarm. Very very happy - Love this Alarm and my cameras that I control with my Iphone
Was and have been very happy with everything. Excellent customer service and the installing tech was very nice and professional.
David is all bout you, helping you and your security needs!
All companies are within a few dollars for home monitoring. If you want personal care, service and quality see David! He goes above and beyond making sure that you get the type of system that serves your needs. No sales pitch and no pressure what so ever. Gus
Technician was punctual which is a plus for me. He was efficient and expeditious with the installation. When he left i felt I was able to perform basic operations of the system due to his thorough explanation. There were two other company associates who came during the install time to make sure everything was done properly. This made me feel quite secure regarding the process. Overall experience was pleasant but I thought the tech could have been more professional in his interaction with me.
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text: John Fox Just heard of a new place in Emerson on Kinderkamack Rd. from a poster on Hot Dog Nation. The place is called Griller's, and is the only place in Jersey I know of that serves Sahlen's, a very popular ( and good) beef/pork frank. One of my top 5. A pleasing peppery flavor in the background. I'll be going soon.