text:
Code 80243004 – Windows Update encountered an unknown error - FIX
- Category: Admin Page
- Created: 18 May 2017
This is one of those fixes you would NEVER have thought to do. NEVER!
Windows Update PowerShell Module
- Category: Software
- Created: 14 May 2017
This is for those with PowerShell knowledge and knows how to use PowerShell. You need to be able to load and execute the modules and know what the PowerShell module does. Particularly useful for computers running core edition.
Microsoft April 2017 Security Updates
- Category: Security
- Created: 12 April 2017
Dammit! I just finished updating all my templates with the March ones! Ugh... well...better get going.
A hands-on guide to Windows 10's Anniversary Update Start menu
- Category: Windows
- Created: 25 April 2016
Huh....looks cool. Guess we'll see.
How to use Group Policy to configure Windows Update Delivery Optimization in Windows 10
- Category: Admin Page
- Created: 15 April 2016
Well, I bookmarked it!
6 Common Windows Upgrade Issues & How to Fix Them
- Category: Software Setup And Config
- Created: 30 November 2015
Hmmmm...some of these are worth reading before you upgrade. Could save you a BIG Headache.
Nerves rattled by highly suspicious Windows Update delivered worldwide
- Category: Security
- Created: 01 October 2015
So... all is well now? Looks like it.
November 2014 update rollup for Windows RT 8.1, Windows 8.1, and Windows Server 2012 R2 (Um... need to do!)
- Category: Windows
- Created: 22 November 2014
Folks, this is one of those updates you need to do as it has huge benefits across hardware, SSD, virtual machines, and security.
Microsoft Issues an Update to Windows Update!
- Category: IT News
- Created: 28 June 2014
No kidding... wonder how I am going to update Windows Update if MS is makeing changes to Windows Update?
Microsoft releases fix for Windows Update corruption errors
- Category: Windows
- Created: 22 February 2014
Sounds like you will have to apply this update manually as it is not (as of yet...) part of... well... Windows Update!


text:
Greece, Fatima, Spain, Lourdes & Shrines of Italy27 days
Your trip includes
- Round-trip airfare from your desired Airport
- *
- All airport taxes & fuel surcharges
- Centrally Located First Class Hotels: (or similar)
- ~ 2 nights: Hotel Capsis, Thessaloniki, Greece
- ~ 1 night: Hotel Divani, Meteora, Greece
- ~ 1 night: Hotel Olympic, Delphi, Greece
- ~ 2 nights: Hotel Divani Palace, Athens, Greece
- ~ 3 nights: Cruise on Celestyal Cruises Cruise Lines , (outside cabin)
- ~ 1 night: Marques de Pombal or Mundial, Lisbon, Portugal
- ~ 2 nights: Santa Maria Jardim, Fatima, Portugal
- ~ 1 night: Abba Fonseca, Salamanca, Spain
- ~ 1 night: Abba, Burgos, Spain
- ~ 3 nights: Moderne or Chapelle et Parc, Lourdes, France
- ~ 3 nights: Le Meridien Visconti or Michelangelo, Rome
- ~ 2 nights: Centro di Spiritualita Padre Pio, San Giovanni Rotondo
- ~ 3 nights: Hotel Giotto, Assisi
- Transfers as per itinerary
- Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner while on Cruise
- Lunch Daily (in Holy Land Only)
- Headset's for additional sightseeing
- Breakfast and Dinner daily
- Wine with dinners
- Transportation by air-conditioned motor coach
- Assistance of a professional local guide(s)
- Sightseeing and admissions fees as per itinerary
- Catholic Priest available for Spiritual Direction
- Mass daily & spiritual activities
- Luggage handling (1 piece per person)
- Port taxes & fees
- All tips included while on cruise
- Shore excursions while on ship include:
- ~ Mykonos - Walking tour
- ~ Kusadasi - Ephesus & the house of the Virgin Mary
- ~ Patmos - Monastery of St. John & Grotto of Apocalypse
- ~ Crete - Palace of Knossos
- ~ Santorini and Thira & Oia Village
- Flight bag & portfolio of all travel documents
Not included
- Lunches, Tips to your guide & driver
Depart for Greece
Make your way to your local airport where you will board your overnight flight(s). Your meals will be served on board.
Arrive Thessaloniki
Upon landing at Makedonia Thessaloniki Airport, make your way to the baggage claim area and collect your luggage. Proceed to the arrival's hall, where you will be greeted by your tour guide and/or driver. You will be escorted to the bus to be transferred to your hotel. Enjoy some time to relax after check in. This evening enjoy a delicious meal. Overnight in Thessaloniki.
Philippi - Kavala - Thessaloniki
After breakfast start your journey in Greece with the first stop of the day in Philippi. Philippi was the city to where Saint Paul the Apostle delivered his first sermon and where he established the first church in Europe. "And from there (He went) to Philippi, which is the leading city of the district of Macedonia and a Roman Colony. We remained in this city some days..." (Acts 16:12-18). Also, it is the site of where Saint Paul baptized a woman named Lydia, the first convert to Christianity in Europe. Visit the Roman Forum where Saint Paul cast a spirit out of a fortune-telling woman. While here, you will have the opportunity to view the prison (now in ruins) of where Saint Paul and Silas were thrown into by the owners of the fortune-tellers. Continue to the modern port city of Kavala, which was once the ancient Neapolis. This port is where Saint Paul, Silas, Luke and Timothy landed when they sailed into Europe. After enjoying this city by the sea, return to Thessaloniki for a delicious meal and restful overnight.
Thessaloniki - Meteora - Thessaloniki city-tour - Kalambaka
Start the day with breakfast at the hotel. In the winter of 49-50 A.D., Saint Paul wrote two epistles to the Thessalonians. These letters urged Christians to "live blamelessly" and to refrain from living idly while they wait for the second coming of Christ. While in Thessaloniki, you will witness a number of ancient artifacts, such as the triumphal Arch of Galerius that is found at the start of Via Egnatia. Due to the convenient location, this arch was once a strategic artery of the Roman Empire. It was originally constructed in order to honor the Roman Emperor Galerius following the Roman victory over the Persians. Following your city-tour, transfer to Kalambaka. This evening, you will have a wonderful meal and a relaxing overnight in Kalambaka.
Kalambaka - Delphi
After breakfast we will go for a short drive to the Meteora Monasteries. In the eleventh century, there were monks who settled within caves. However, as the occupation of the Turkish increased, the monks were forced to move their settlements higher upon the rocks until they were unreachable by any opposing enemy. These settlements became Monasteries by bringing building, and living, materials by ladders and baskets. The Meteora Monasteries are notorious for preserving not only the Hellenic religion, but also, their academics and arts. During your visit, you will be able to view stunning Byzantine art, as well as the breathtaking scenery that surrounds the Monastery. Continue to Delphi for dinner and overnight.
Delphi - Athens
Visit Delphi, the center of the ancient world (navel) of the earth, whose prestige extended far beyond the boundaries of the Hellenic world. On the slopes of Mount Parnassus, in a landscape of unparalleled beauty and majesty, lie the ruins of the Sanctuary of Apollo Phthios. Visit the site and the museum and continue to Athens." Men of Athens, I perceive that in every way you are religious. For as I passed along and observed the objects of your worship, I found also an altar with this inscription " to an unknown God". What therefore you worship as unknown, this I proclaim to you…". Athens, is one of the most glorious cities in the world and the cradle of western civilization as we know it today. Dinner and overnight at our hotel.
Athens - Excursion to Corinth
After a nice breakfast at the hotel we will start with a tour of the oldest city in the world, Athens! Visit the rock that has dominated the panorama of Athens for twenty-five centuries, the Acropolis. At the Acropolis, you will see the ruins of the Parthenon, Erectheum, and Propylae. After, you will ascend Mars Hill of where Saint Paul spoke to the Athenians. At this site, Paul spoke to the Athenians about the one and only God (Acts 17:22). While in this city, you will be able to view the ancient Agora, the former public center of Athenian life. It held the focus of a political, commercial, social, religious, and cultural center. As you are in the former political center, proceed for a drive through the city to view the House of Parliament on Syntagma Square. Also, you will have the opportunity to view the University of Athens, the oldest higher education institute in Greece, as well as, the National Library of Greece that holds 4,500 Greek manuscripts. Then, visit Panathenaic Stadium, the beautifully marbled multi-purpose stadium. It is home to the Olympian Zeus, and is the site of the first modern era Olympics (1896). Following your visit in Athens, you will proceed to the ancient Corinth. Under the shadow of the towering Acropolis, Saint Paul lived in Corinth for two years. While here, Saint Paul felt great grief over the way that the Gentile Church in Corinth has become. As a result, he was prompted to write four letters, all with the overarching theme of love. In Corinth, you will have the opportunity to view the remains of the first century shops, the site of Saint Paul's trial by Gallio, the Fountain of Peirene, and the Temple of Apollo. Following your visit to Corinth, return to Athens for a delicious meal and overnight.
Athens - Start 3-day Cruise (Celestyal Cruises Cruise Lines) to Mykonos
Following breakfast, you will proceed to the Piraeus port where you will board your 3-day cruise. Your first stop will be the Island of Mykonos, the most cosmopolitan of the Greek islands that attracts visitors from all over the world. After docking, transfer to Hora, the island's capital. Upon arrival in Hora, you will enjoy a walking tour that will take you on the narrow cobbled streets of the city. Pass by chic boutiques, elegant nightclubs, and white washed houses to arrive in Alefkandra. This section of Mykonos is known as the "Venice of Mykonos", as the homes have wooden balconies and are built on the sea. Historically, these homes were of the wealthy merchants and captains. Return to the cruise ship for dinner and overnight.
Kusadasi - Ephesus (Mary's House) - Patmos
After breakfast on board, arrive at the lively Turkish port of Kusadasi. Transfer to the small village of Mt. Koressos. While in this village, you will visit the small stone chapel that is situated upon the site of where the Virgin Mary spent her last days following Christ's crucifixion. Following this visit, your group will walk through the Magnesian Gate to the ancient Ephesus. Begin your walking tour, which will take you through the most magnificent excavations in the world. Some of the sites include the Odeon (concert hall), the Fountain of Trajan, the steam-heated Baths of Scolastika, the Temple of Hadrian and the Latrians, andthe Library of Celsus. The last stop on the walking tour is to the Great Theatre, the largest ancient theatre that had a capacity of 25,000 people and is a site of where Saint Paul preached. On the return of your walking tour, follow the exact route that Mark Anthony and Cleopatra once rode in procession via the Arcadian Way. This main street runs from the Great Theatre to the main city's harbor. On your transfer back to Kusadasi, you will have the opportunity to view the Basilica of Saint John. In the sixth century, Emperor Justinian erected this structure over the grave of the evangelist, John. Upon arrival in Kusadasi, enjoy free time to explore on your own before returning to the ship. When you embark on the ship, your journey will continue to Patmos, where you will transfer to the village of Chora. While in this island's capital, visit the monastery of Saint John the Theologian. This marvelous structure was built nine-hundred years ago, and continues to be supported by the walls of a strong fortification. In addition to the stunning main church that contains outstanding frescoes, you will have the opportunity to view the beautiful courtyard, dining room, and the bakery. Your tour continues to the small museum, where you will view priceless ecclesiastical treasures such as books, manuscripts, mosaics, icons, textiles, vestments, and jewelry. Board the bus, which will take you to the Monastery and Grotto of the Apocalypse. In this grotto, experience a once in a lifetime opportunity to view the site of where the Book of Revelations was written. The silver niches in the wall mark the pillow and ledge that were used as a desk by the author of the Book. Additionally, view the three-fold crack made by the voice of God who emphasized the importance of honoring the Holy Trinity. Your day will culminate with a transfer to the port of Scala. While in this quaint and picturesque harbor, you will enjoy free time before returning to the ship.
Heraklion - Santorini
This morning you will awaken and transfer to the largest city on the island of Crete, Heraklion. While in this administrative capital, visit the ancient ruins of the Palace of Knossos. These ruins were discovered in 1899, and the palace is currently partially reconstructed. This ancient palace is believed to have been the mythical Labyrinth of King Minos and the seat of ancient Minoan culture. Additionally, it is the site of where Saint Paul met the owner and captain of the ship who warned him of continuing his journey to spread Christianity in Rome. Following this historical visit, you will embark the ship that will take you to the idyllic island of Santorini. Santorini is definitively the most breathtaking island of all of the Greek Islands. Upon arrival in Santorini, visit Thira with its iconic white-washed houses, narrow streets, open-air cafes, and glittering boutiques that cling to steep cliffs. This evening you will return to the ship for your last dinner and overnight on your cruise.
Piraeus - Athens – Lisbon
Today marks the end of our cruise. After disembarkation you will be transferred to Athens airport where you will board your flight to Lisbon. Upon arrival in Lisbon you will find your luggage and exit the baggage claim into the arrivals hall where you will be greeted by a tour guide and/or driver. You will be escorted to the vehicle which will then take you on a sightseeing tour of this beautiful Portuguese city. We will visit the Cathedral, St. Jerome's Monastery, Saint Anthony's Church (the patron saint of lost objects), Belem Quarter, the Belem Tower, 25 April Bridge, and Discoveries Monument. Our drive will also take us through the Basilica of the Star, Rossio Square, Commerce Square and Marquee of Pomba Square. We arrive at our hotel in time for dinner.
Lisbon - Santarem - Fatima
After breakfast depart for Santarem, one of the oldest cities in the world. We will walk through its narrow streets to the Church of St. Stephen, containing the oldest recorded Eucharistic miracle. This miracle has been on continuous display since 1269 A.D. We will celebrate Mass at this holy site. We then continue on to Fatima, where the Blessed Mother appeared in 1917 to three simple shepherd children and exhorted mankind to pray for world peace. We arrive in time for dinner and retire for a restful evening.
After breakfast, we begin our day celebrating Mass at the Little Chapel of the Apparitions. After Mass we begin our tour of Fatima where we will experience the beauty of this spiritual town. We will see the Basilica, the site of Francesco and Jacinta's graves, the Hamlet of Aljustrel, where the children lived, and Valinhos, the site of Our Lady's appearance after the children's return from prison. Experience Christ's love as you walk and follow the Stations of the Cross along the Via Sacra (The Sacred Way) culminating in the Chapel of Calvary, which overlooks all of Fatima. Join your prayers with those of pilgrims from around the world as you pray for the sick, drink water from the miraculous well. Attend the blessing of the sick and participate in nightly candlelight processions requested by Our Lady. Time for private devotions before dinner and a restful night's sleep.
Fatima - Salamanca
After a filling breakfast we depart towards the city of Salamanca. Salamanca is the most graceful city in Spain and for four centuries it was the seat of one of the most prestigious universities in the world. We will have a chance to see many of the city's sights including the grand Plaza Mayor, the hub of Salmantine life; the vast Baroque church of La Clerecía; the Casa de las Conchas (House of Shells), named after the rows of carved scallop shells symbol of the pilgrimage to Santiago which decorate its façade; the University; the cathedrals; the Roman Bridge; San Marcos and San Martin churches, and more. We will enjoy a delicious dinner in a local restaurant before continuing to our hotel for a restful overnight.
Salamanca - Alba de Tormes - Ávila - Burgos
After breakfast, we will depart to the quaint village of Alba de Tormes. Here we will visit and celebrate Mass at the Carmelite Monastery, where Saint Teresa died in 1582 A.D. and is buried. In the little museum of the Carmelite Monastery we will be able to see the incorrupt heart and left arm of the St. Teresa. We enjoy free time for lunch before we continue our journey to Ávila. Two things distinguish Ávila: the perfectly preserved eleventh-century walls which surround the old town, and the mystic writer Santa Teresa, who was born here and whose shrines are a must see for all Catholic pilgrims! Ávila's atmosphere has changed very little since the days of Santa Teresa, the first woman to be named a Doctor of the Church, to whom the city is dedicated. During our tour of Ávila we will see the Cathedral and San Vicente church. We will visit the Incarnation Convent, where St. Teresa became a nun and home to the most comprehensive museum dedicated to her life. We also visit La Santa Monastery, built on the site of the house where she was born, and San José Convent, the first monastery founded by the Saint. After walking in the footsteps of St. Teresa we depart for Burgos, the historic capital of Old Castile. After dinner you will have free time to explore Burgos, and admire the magnificent limestone Cathedral.
Burgos - Loyola - Lourdes
After breakfast, we depart Burgos for Loyola, the birthplace of St. Ignatius of Loyola, founder of the Jesuits. Here, we will see the 17th-century Basilica dedicated to St. Ignatius. We will also visit his family home behind the sanctuary. We will have time to pray at the most venerated room where Ignatius at age 30, was brought following his serious wounding at the Battle of Pamplona. After free time for lunch we motor through the spectacular Pyrenees Mountains. Nestled in the mountains stands picturesque Lourdes, the birthplace of St. Bernadette to whom Our Lady appeared in 1858 near the Grotto of Massabielle. We arrive in time for dinner at our hotel before retiring to our rooms for a restful night's sleep.
During the next two days in Lourdes you will have time to pray with your fellow pilgrims from around the world. During your trip you will have an opportunity to: Attend Mass at the Grotto, watch a video presentation telling the story of Lourdes, and walk in the footsteps of St. Bernadette. See Boly Mill where St. Bernadette was born, and the "Cachot," an abandoned prison where Bernadette's impoverished family lived. Join your prayers with those of pilgrims from around the world as you pray for the sick, drink water from the miraculous spring or submerge yourself in the healing baths. Experience Christ's love as you walk the life-sized Stations of the Cross overlooking the holy Grotto.Kneel in the chapel built on the very rock of the Grotto, in obedience to the request of the "Immaculate Conception." Evenings are free for optional Blessed Sacrament Procession before dinner. Your role in the universal church will have new meaning as you join the candlelight procession and group rosary. (candle light procession and group rosary April through October only).
Lourdes - Rome
After an early breakfast we make our way to Toulouse or Pau Airport for our short flight(s) to Rome. Upon arrival you will be greeted by your tour escort and/or driver. After a warm welcome to Italy, you will be escorted to your transportation to your hotel. This afternoon our guide will introduce us to our fellow pilgrims and our priest who will be with us for the rest of the journey. We will make our way to Mass, followed by a welcome dinner with wine. This evening we will walk to St. Peter's Square for Rosary (optional).
Rome: Papal Audience - Basilica of St. John the Lateran - Holy Stairs - Basilica of St. Mary Major
After a nice breakfast at your hotel, your first sightseeing day in Rome starts! The tour begins with attending the Papal Audience in St. Peter's Square! The Audience is celebrated each Wednesday by His Holiness (pending the papal schedule). Following the Audience, there will be free time for lunch, or shop, or mail a postcard from the Vatican Post Office. This afternoon you will visit the oldest of the four major basilicas in Rome, and the home to the relics of Peter and Paul, the Basilica of St. John the Lateran. This Basilica is where the Pope is installed as Bishop of Rome, and where he officiates as the Bishop of Rome. Next, we will cross the street to visit the Holy Staircase. Tradition states that this staircase is from Pontius Pilate's palace of Jerusalem during the time of Jesus. It is also said that this Staircase was brought to Rome by St. Helen in the 4th century. If time permits, you may climb the steps on your knees, in memory of Christ's agonizing Passion. To conclude your day, we will proceed to the Basilica of St. Mary Major. This Basilica contains a relic from the Manger of the Infant Jesus. Return to the hotel for dinner and overnight.
*The Scala Santa is currently under restoration. Thus, the Vatican has displayed an image replicating the stairs in front of the entrance where you will walk in. There are several staircases just to the side of the Scala Santa that you may ascend on your knees. You will still be able to receive the same graces and indulgences by going up any of the alternative stairs.
Rome: St. Peter's Basilica - Vatican Museum - Trevi Fountain - Appian Way - Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls - Catacombs
Following breakfast, we will depart to celebrate Mass in the largest church in Christendom, St Peter's Basilica, built on the site where St Peter was martyred. Unsurpassed in beauty, a monument to the long history of the Catholic Church, to which pilgrims come from around the world, St Peter's is the grandest of the world's churches. Marvel Pieta and Bernini's amazing bronze canopy. Following Mass, we will visit of the Vatican Museums, containing a group of the most impressive edifices with hundreds of galleries filled with art treasures. See awe-inspiring relics, and works of art donated throughout centuries as tributes of faith. We'll cover The Tapestry Gallery, The Raphael Rooms and the most overwhelming Sistine Chapel, Michelangelo's Masterpiece, restored mural of the Last Judgment. The tour ends as we make our way back into St. Peter's Basilica. Pope Francis visited the tomb of St. Peter, following his elevation, for a visit of devotion that lasted 45 minutes. He is the first Pontiff to visit the necropolis since extensive archaeological excavations were conducted at the ancient site decades ago. We will also visit the tomb of Saint John Paul II located at the Vatican. There will be free time for lunch, and then we will continue on to visit St Paul. Outside the Walls. Continue our tour via the Appian Way -- the oldest road from Roman times--plus the famous Domino Quo Vadis Chapel; see the ancient Baths of Caracalla, Arch of Drusus; Tomb of Celilia Metella, and the catacombs of St Callixtus where the early Christians hid themselves to escape persecution. We will conclude our day and wonderful stay in Rome with dinner at a local restaurant in Rome.
Rome – Monte Cassino – San Giovanni Rotondo
Following breakfast, we will head south and cross through the Roman countryside with its villas and vineyards. During your drive, your tour escort will explain the spiritual, historical, and cultural overview of Italy, which will help to orient you to this beautiful country and prepare you for all that you will experience in the days to follow. We stop at Montecassino, a beautiful town founded by Saint Benedict in 529. Enjoy lunch and then continue through the countryside heading east to Padre Pio's town, San Giovanni Rotondo, our base for the following two nights. Dinner and overnight.
San Giovanni Rotondo - Monte Sant' Angel (view incorrupt body of Padre Pio)
After celebrating Mass at the tomb of Padre Pio, we tour the sanctuary, see the old church and the crucifix from which he received the stigmata in 1918. You will see the confessional where Padre Pio spent innumerable hours with a multitude of pilgrims, directing them on their journey toward God. (Beginning June 1st , 2013 - We will have the opportunity to view and pray before the incorrupt body of Padre Pio.) Enjoy a breathtaking view of the Gargano Peninsula and a visit to the Grotto of Michael the Archangel. Six different popes, St Francis and at least four other saints have knelt in prayer at this grotto, seeking the protection of St Michael. Following lunch, take in the panoramic view of the ocean and the surrounding countryside awaits you at this most celebrated shrine of early Christianity, a shrine consecrated by St Michael himself in 490. Return to San Giovanni for devotions, reflection, and a restful overnight.
San Giovanni Rotondo – Lanciano – Loreto – Assisi
We will have breakfast at our hotel before we make our way to Lanciano, and visit the Church of St. Longinus where we will see the Eucharistic Miracle and celebrate Mass. It was here, as they celebrated the Latin Rite, a Basilian hieromonk was assigned to celebrate Mass. The monk had doubts about the real presense of Jesus Christ in the Holy Eucharist. With doubt in his voice, he said the "Words of Consecration" and the bread turned into living flesh, and the wine changed into live blood. The blood coagulated into five globules, corresponding to the wounds Christ suffered in each hand and foot on the cross, and the wound from the centurion's spear. After free time for lunch, we will continue on toward the Adriatic coast to the great Marian shrine of Loreto to visit the Holy House of Nazareth and the beautiful Madonna of Loreto. More than 50 popes have made a pilgrimage to the house transported by angels to this hill in central Italy in 1294. Tradition has it that this is the house in which Mary first prayed the Magnificat, in which Jesus grew to manhood, and in which the Holy Family lived. Enjoy lunch before we make our way to Assisi, the hometown of St. Francis, the patron saint of animals and the environment, and the founder of the Franciscan Order. We arrive in time for dinner at our hotel.
Assisi (The Life of a Saint, that inspired a Holy Father)
Today is a very special day, as we will spend a full day touring the home of the Saint that inspired our Holy Father. Pope Francis chose his name in admiration of the Saint of Nature and Servant to the Poor. Known for being a humble man himself, Pope Francis spent most of his life denying the luxuries of life, and preferring to live in simplicity and humility. Following breakfast, we will begin a tour of Assisi. Visit the tomb of St Francis. Explore the quaint hilltop birthplace of St Francis that still retains something of the atmosphere of the early 1200s, the period when St Francis began his ministry. Contained within the huge 13th-century Basilica are many of the saint's possessions and a series of frescoes depicting his life. You may kneel before the crucifix from which Jesus spoke to St Francis, asking him to rebuild His church. It was in St Mary of the Angels Basilica where St Francis spent most of his life. Here we visit the Chapel, Portiuncola, the rose bush, and the cave where the saint retired for prayer. Stroll the medieval streets of the compact little town. You will have some free time to shop or eat lunch at an outdoor cafe with a view of an ancient Roman temple, we go to the Church of St. Clare to view the relics of St. Clare. The foundress of the Order of Poor Clares followed the teachings of St Francis by living a life of poverty and humility. We will visit these two saints' tombs before dinner and retiring for the evening.
Assisi – Siena - Assisi
After breakfast we will head south to Siena, the birthplace of Saints Catherine (Doctor of the Church, and one of the two patron Saints of Italy, with St. Francis of Assisi) and Bernardine (known as the "Apostle of Italy" for his efforts to revive the Catholic faith in the 15th century). Siena is also one of Italy's loveliest medieval cities. Here we will stroll the Piazza Del Campo, one of Italy's finest squares and visit the Cathedral and the Basilica of St. Francis, containing the miraculous consecrated hosts that remained intact since 1730. After lunch, we will continue on to view the incorrupt head of St. Catherine at the Basilica of St. Dominic (Her body is preserved in Rome in the Basilica St. Maria sopra Minerva). We travel back to Assisi for dinner and overnight.
Assisi - Rome – USA
Following breakfast, we will board our bus that will bring us to Rome Airport for our return flights home. We will bid farewell to our new friends and to a Pilgrimage which will be in our memories and hearts for a long time to come. We depart for Rome Airport and fondly say, Arrivederci Italia!*206 Tours Disclaimer:
Occasionally local religious and national holidays, weather, traffic conditions and other events may necessitate changes in the sequence of events or the missing of certain events/places. Though every effort will be made to follow the itinerary, it should be considered as an indication, rather than a contract of events and places to be visited.
The benefit of buying airfare with 206 Tours?
- Your transfers are always secured, even if your flights are delayed - round trip transfers to/from the hotel and airport are included no matter what!
- If you purchase your airline ticket on your own, you have to pay in full at the time of booking, and most of the time it is non-refundable. If you book with 206 Tours, full payment is due 60 days prior.
- In the very rare event that a tour is cancelled, you would get all your money back, which would most likely not be the case if you purchased it directly from the airline.
- Your flight arrangement will be followed up on and reconfirmed by 206 Tours.
- 206 Tours can arrange for you to travel before the tour, make a stop-over, or stay later!
3 Day Cruises (Iconic Aegean)
"4 Greek Islands & Turkey"
|ATHENS (PIRAEUS), Greece
|MYKONOS, Greece
|KUSADASI (Ephesus), Turkey
|PATMOS, Greece
|CRETE (HERAKLION), Greece
|SANTORINI, Greece
|ATHENS (PIRAEUS), Greece
About your trip
About Greece and Saint Paul
The important role that Greece has played in history is widely known; philosophy, the arts, medicine, democracy. But there is also a great page in the history of Christianity: early days of Christianity and the ministry of the Apostle Paul! This amazing man, moved by the Holy Spirit preached "good news" to Jews and Gentiles. Traveling along the major trade routes of the Roman empire and visiting large thriving communities of Asia Minor and Greece his mission was accomplished; Christianity became the biggest religion in the world. Our tours are not just tours; they are an inspiring journey to the actual places where the Apostle Paul lived and preached God's word. Travel with our bible-oriented guides down timeless roads; take time to pray and rejoice in the ancient biblical sites; visit thousand-year-old churches and temples; and encounter a unique spiritual experience that will help you to better understand "The Steps of Paul" selecting bible-oriented guides, incorporating lectures and providing printed material, for people to achieve a deeper understanding of the Apostle Paul and his work.
About Fatima:
The Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima is one of most famous Marian shrines in the world. Drawn by apparitions of the Virgin Mary to three local shepherd children in 1917. Four million people visit Fatima each year. The Blessed Virgin Mary appeared to shepherd children on the 13th day of six consecutive months in 1917, starting on May 13th until October 13th. The events at Fatima gained particular fame due to their elements of prophecy and eschatology, particularly with regard to possible world war and the conversion of Russia.
About Lourdes
She came for you and for everyone of us! 6 million pilgrims come to Lourdes each year and 10,000 visit this site daily. At the foot of the Pyrenees mountains in southwestern France, nestled between the spectacular mountain river, Gave de Pau, is Lourdes, one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the World. Lourdes is the birthplace of St Bernadette to whom Our Lady appeared in 1858 near the Grotto of Massabielle. Our pilgrimage and tour of Lourdes includes visits to the sanctuary and the Basilica of St Pius X, the world's largest underground church. Drink from the spring that the Virgin directed Bernadette to locate at the base of the grotto, which has flowed uninterrupted since 1858. Wash yourself in the baths where hundreds of miraculous cures have taken place. Contemplate Christ's Passion as you pray the unique three-dimensional Stations of the Cross. Attend the blessing of the sick, and participate in nightly candlelight processions requested by Our Lady. Daily Mass, and Mass at the Grotto on Sunday will be followed by a video presentation telling the miraculous story of Lourdes. Visit Lourdes and experience a spiritual journey from which many have claimed healing and conversion.
About Rome
Rome has been one of history's most powerful and important cities, along with home to the Roman Catholic Church, the Pope, and the site of the Vatican City. First built in 337, St. Peter's Basilica lies over the tomb of St. Peter. Contained within is a vast array of the most beautiful artwork ever assembled, reflecting the immensity, beauty, vastness, majesty, glory and awesomeness of God

subset: commoncrawl


text:
We are all really proud of Stuart as he settled down last night in his new bed no problems and slept through until 8am when he made his way into our bedroom to wake us up.
After the first night we didn't think he would take to it. I even thought I might have had to buy some chloroform from Amazon!


text:
1. UN Launches Syrian Aid Appeal- The United Nations (UN) has launched the largest ever aid appeal in Syria for $6.5 billion. The UN estimates that nearly 3/4s of Syria's 22.4 million population will need aid in 2014.
2. Carjacking Outside New Jersey Mall- A man leaving the Short Hills Mall was shot and killed last night as men attempted to steal his car. The carjackers took a 2012 Range Rover.
3. German Amazon Workers On Strike- Hundreds of Amazon.com workers in Germany went on strike today in an effort to put pressure on the online retailer to agree on a new wage agreement. Amazon has about 9,000 workers in Germany.
4. Beyonce's New Album Sells Well- Beyonce's new self-titled album sold more than 400,000 units the first day it was available for purchase. The visual album, marks the largest debut from a female artist this year.
5. RIP Peter O'Toole- Famed actor Peter O'Toole passed away Saturday at the age of 81. The Irish actor was best known for his role in the 1962 film Lawrence of Arabia.
Song of the Day: William Oneyeabor- Good Name
Happy Birthday: Shane Black, turns 51 today!
RIP: Harland Sanders, died 33 years ago today.


text:
Fortis Academy Fortis Academy
Here's a sample of our volunteer opportunities:VIEW AS
Mission Statement
The mission of Fortis Academy is to encourage a positive community school, which promotes values, parental involvement and a strong sense of academic achievement.
Fortis Academy, managed by National Heritage Academies (NHA) and authorized by Bay Mills Community College was founded in the spring of 2004. Fortis Academy opened on August 25, 2004 providing education to 355 students in grades K-5. Now in its seventh year of operation, and we welcomed over 700 students from the greater Ann Arbor/Ypsilanti Community each day to a world of learning, friendships, and educational quality by challenging each child to achieve. One of our major focuses is on college readiness and preparing our students' to be the best.
This information
Might be out of date
Do you work for this organization?
Request administrator status and update its information!


text:
Download Galactic Conquest
Galactic Conquest is a 2D real time strategy game that gives you a top view of the map, enough to make you understand what is going on and what are you required to do in order to catch your opponent by surprise. You will have to use tactical attacks in order to defeat the enemy so plan your attacks in advance.
You cannot build any structures on the map; you are only required to destroy the enemy base and enemies, which come in various forms, from land to air troops. You should first destroy their buildings as the troops are created automatically at a constant rate.


text:
- Home
- Buy Garage Door Springs in the Inland Empire
Buy Garage Door Springs in the Inland Empire
We Sell Garage Door Springs to the Inland Empire Public
Every size of garage door spring for every type of garage door from golf cart to airplane hanger we have them. No matter if you need 1 garage door spring or 100 garage door springs we can supply them for you in the Inland Empire. If you need them today or delivered newt week we can accommodate your needs. Just call us and let us know what type of garage door you have and how many springs are on it now? Some garage doors only have 1 garage door spring while other doors have 2 or more. Our garage door has 4 torsion springs due to the extra weight and height.
Our Torsion Spring Garage door springs are made in the USA from true American Steel and are equipped with tough Canadian aluminum winding cones that last a lifetime. Our garage door springs are coated with oil zinc coating that will withstand rust and corrosion therefore last longer than cheaper competitive foreign steel types. We have most sizes in stock and ready for you to pick up or if needed we can Install for you, just let us know?
Order Today


text:
CPU-Z (64-bit) v1.59
Vista / Win2k / Win7 / WinXP
CPU-Z does not need to be installed. Just unzip the files in a directory and run the .exe. In order to remove the program, just delete the files, and that's it.
Other editions:
HTML code for linking to this page:
cpu-z cpu mainboard memory system gather information
1License and operating system information is based on latest version of the software.
(No user ratings yet)
recommend a free video converter for 64bit (4 posts)Latest post: 06/15/2013
Forum room: Digital video / Convert video to another format
Fed Ex Virus Email on my Win 7 64bit PC (7 posts)Latest post: 01/19/2013
Forum room: Software, operating systems and more / Windows - Virus and spyware problems
Cinema Craft Encoder SP 2.70.02.12 on Win7-64bit (1 posts)Latest post: 07/06/2012
Forum room: Software specific discussion / DVD / BD-Rebuilder forum
rnd BSODs W7 64bit (8 posts)Latest post: 05/23/2012
Forum room: PC hardware / Other PC hardware
Manual Encoding for Win7 64bit (1 posts)Latest post: 11/29/2011
Forum room: Digital video / Video - Everything else
Dual boot Win7 32 bit and Win8 64bit? (4 posts)Latest post: 11/09/2011
Forum room: Software, operating systems and more / Windows 8 discussion
WXRIPPER 64BIT (3 posts)Latest post: 09/29/2011
Forum room: Consoles / Xbox 360 - Modding & Hacking
Windows XP 64bit vs Windows 7 Ultimate 64bit (4 posts)Latest post: 09/25/2011
Forum room: Software, operating systems and more / Windows - General discussion
Xbox Backup Creator - Windows 7 64Bit (6 posts)Latest post: 09/04/2011
Forum room: Consoles / Xbox 360 - Modding & Hacking
Does "Easy CD & DVD Creator 6" from Roxio, will work in W7-64bit?? (3 posts)Latest post: 11/20/2010
Forum room: General discussion / All other topics


text:
Saint Mary School Uniform – FAQs
Why was the uniform changed?
As our current dress code evolved to include several colors and styles of clothing, there was agreement between parents, teachers and administration, that our dress code no longer celebrated the fact that we are a Catholic school. The Saint Mary School uniform was changed to unite our students in their appearance.
My child has navy blue "uniform style" pants that are NOT Dennis brand, can he wear them?
Yes! Although Dennis is our uniform provider and does carry navy uniform pants and shorts, navy blue uniform style pants from other retailers are also acceptable to wear. (Please note: The Dennis pants are the model for "uniform style". Cargo pants and pants with other embellishments are not acceptable.)
Which logos are approved for the transition year 2011-2012?
ALL of the old logos (SMS, St. Mary, Saint Mary School Buffalo Grove) that are currently worn as part of our dress code are acceptable on white and light blue polo shirts in the transition year.
Does my child need a separate pair of shoes for gym class or can she wear her gym shoes with her uniform?
Shoes worn with the school uniform should be black, brown or navy; gym shoes are acceptable as long as they meet these criteria. Alternately colored or otherwise embellished shoes are not acceptable with the school uniform.
What will happen to our old, retired uniform pieces?
No uniform pieces will be discarded. Several Big Shoulders schools will benefit from our retired uniform pieces, including the logoed pieces. A collection box will be in the school office for donations.
Thank you for supporting the new uniform policy and Saint Mary School. If you have additional questions, please don't hesitate to ask!
Home > Hot Topics >


text:
Wednesday, July 18, 2012
How to make ChainMail
A recent video on the StormtheCastle.com (epicfantasy) YouTube channel shows us "How to make ChainMail." Enjoy!
Subscribe to: Post Comments (Atom)
Museums are a great way to spend time learning and having fun on your own, with family, and with friends. I've been checking into the v...


text:
Bobbi Brown Gel eyeliner in Chocolate Shimmer
107 reviews
82% would repurchase
Package Quality: 4.1
Price: $$$
Package Quality: 4.1
Price: $$$
INGREDIENTSBOBBI BROWN LONG-WEAR GEL EYELINER INGREDIENTS (2010): isododecane - cyclopentasiloxane - polyethylene - trimethylsiloxysilicate - disteardimonium hectorite - propylene carbonate - lecithin - phenyl trimethicone - hydrogenated polyisobutene - methicone - barium sulfate - bht - phenoxyethanol [ /- iron oxides (ci 77491, ci 77492, ci 77499) - mica - titanium dioxide (ci 77891) - blue 1 lake (ci 42090) - carmine (ci 75470) - chromium oxide greens (ci 77288) - manganese violet (ci 77742) - yellow 5 lake (ci 19140) - chromium hydroxide green (ci 77289) - bismuth oxychloride (ci 77163) - ultramarines (ci 77007) - ferric ferrocyanide (ci 77510)]
Where to Buy
- When you make a purchase through these links, we may receive a commission from the eBay Partner Network or other affiliates.
Start your review
on 4/9/2018 10:41:00 AM
Age: 30-35
Skin: Sensitive, Fair, Neutral
Hair: Blond, Curly, Medium
Eyes: Green
Chocolate shimmer is my second Bobbi gel liner after Bronze shimmer. I was really excited after swatching because reddish brown shades compliment green eyes very well. It glides effortlessly, longevity is great and the packaging is beautiful.
My only issue is that the sparkly particles don't provide any kind of effect on me, those in Bronze shimmer are really fine as well but add a beautiful glow to the eyes which isn't present here. Probably because the shade is more on the metallic side overall. Chocolate shimmer looks like a plain soft brown. Mac's Dipdown makes more of an impact overall.
So this is a good quality product and will use it for understated everyday work makeup but I don't love it as much as I expected.
on 9/4/2015 3:53:00 AM
Age: 19-24
Skin: Oily, Fair-Medium, Not Sure
Hair: Black, Wavy, Medium
Eyes: Brown
I love how long it stays on! I can wear it all night without reapplying. And I love the color. Will be buying this again.
on 6/27/2015 2:19:00 AM
Age: 44-55
Skin: Sensitive, Fair-Medium, Warm
Hair: Other, Wavy, Medium
Eyes: Brown
Why did I wait so long to try this gel liner? I had been faithful to black liquid liner for ages when I decided to go for a softer liner look but I didn't want to use pencil as it fades by mid day on my oily lids.
I decided to try the Chocolate Shimmer gel liner as the colour was dark enough to show up on my lids but doesn't look as harsh as liquid liner and the shimmer isn't too obvious.
This liner stays put from the time I apply it in the morning to the time I remove my makeup in the evening. The formula is a bit on the dry side compared to other gel liners (MAC and Clinique gel liners are more moist in texure) but it's still creamy enough to glide on my lids without pulling or tugging.
I use this liner every day and I know I'll finish it off to the last bit and yes, I'll be repurchasing another one.
on 3/3/2015 4:05:00 PM
Age: 19-24
Skin: Normal, Fair, Cool
Hair: Brown, Other, Other
Eyes: Brown
I BOW TO THIS PRODUCT! I think that says it all! The colour, the consistency makes every other gel eyeliner seem like a joke. This is the BEST of them all, the queen of them all! The colour, chocolate shimmer, is PERFECT, the lasting power is UNBEATABLE, the packaging is BEAUTIFUL. I have nothing bad to say about it! Just well done Bobbi Brown and thank you for making such masterpieces available to us!
on 10/11/2013 8:12:00 PM
Age: 30-35
Skin: Sensitive, Fair-Medium, Cool
Hair: Blond, Other, Fine
Eyes: Blue
This is my first BB gel eyeliner that I finally purchased after hearing so many good things about it for years. Chocolate Shimmer is so beautiful and exactly what I wanted because it is something different than the typical dark brown or black. What I love about this color is the way it shimmers in the sunlight and the color really brings out my green eyes. The lasting power is fantastic and it stays put during a very long work day no matter how hot and humid it is. It is the only gel liner that hasn't transferred at all, not even a little bit.
Unfortunately, I won't be buying it again. The reason is that it dries up too fast. I am not sure if the shimmer somehow causes it to dry up faster because this is the only one I have but it is very annoying. During the first month or so of using this liner, it went on so nicely and now when I apply it, it drags across the lid and I have to re-coat the brush a few times to get enough product. This shouldn't happen with a $25 liner. I have heard so many people talk about how amazing this liner is and it was for about a month but it can't be amazing if it dries up after month one with 80% product left in the jar. All in all, the BB gel liner is better than Lancome which dries up even faster and the staying power is better than anything from the drugstore but I will be trying the Clinque cream liner next and continue my search for the perfect gel liner!
on 2/25/2013 1:44:00 PM
Age: 30-35
Skin: Dry, Fair, Cool
Hair: Brunette, Wavy, Medium
Eyes: Blue
This liner gives me raccoon eyes within two hours no matter what I do: prep eyes, less product, set with powder, etc. Disappointing.
on 11/13/2012 10:36:00 PM
Age: 44-55
Skin: Dry, Fair, Warm
Hair: Brown, Wavy, Medium
Eyes: Green
I had Bobbi Brown's Sepia Ink for years until it finally dried out. Needed another basic brown eyeliner for day. Reading that this one has a bit of shimmer, I thought it would add a little "something different" (it's so boring just buying brown eyeliner!) I bought this online and was worried it would be TOO shimmery, but needn't have. It's very subtle and suitable for work for my nearly-50 eyes. I have green eyes, and it highlights them nicely, but I think it would look *spectacular* on blue eyes. The brown is neutral--neither too warm nor too cool--and "chocolate" exactly as described. Lasts and lasts--at least on the top lid. As I get older I find that nothing stays on the lower lashline without migrating into my fine lines (boo). Packaging--solid, tasteful, classy like all BB stuff. Overall, a strong winner.
on 3/17/2012 9:10:00 PM
Age: 25-29
Skin: Normal, Fair-Medium, Warm
Hair: Black, Wavy, Medium
Eyes: Brown
I love this color! I've got dark brown eyes, NC20/25 black hair/asian. This is just a really natural looking,subtle eyeliner.My only con is that it doesn't last as long as I would like. It tends to fade before I finish the day at work.
on 2/11/2012 1:37:00 PM
Age: 30-35
Skin: Other, Other, Not Sure
Hair: Other, Other, Other
Eyes: Other
The best ever - the color is really pretty and it has amazing staying power (all day and night). One little pot also lasts forever - although after a while it does start drying out which makes it a little more difficult to apply but it still stays on. I will never use another liner. The price is totally worth it.
on 1/5/2012 11:09:00 PM
Age: 36-43
Skin: Combination, Fair-Medium, Cool
Hair: Blond, Other, Other
Eyes: Blue
I really wanted to love this because I was hoping I would be able to notice some shimmer in it but after applying, it looked like a basic brown gel liner. I would highly recommend trying Maybelline's Eye Studio Lasting Drama gel liner in brown instead of this. It is longwearing, smudge proof and much less expensive! The packaging is also very similar as well.
Popular Eyeliners
Popular Eyeliners
Where to Buy
- When you make a purchase through these links, we may receive a commission from the eBay Partner Network or other affiliates.


text:
A Freezing Fridge at Pangong Tso4 12 Share Tweet
This is about my freezing journey to the coldest place I've ever been to which is 4000 meters above sea level. Pangong Tso is huge, with its territory covering three countries: China, India, and Tibet. This time I visited its part in Jammu and Kashmir in India.
The voyage to Pangong Tso was quite tough and took a lot of time. But for me, it was an impressive one; the scenery along the way was just like I was trekking to a land of paradise. I heard that in the summer, Pangong Tso is colored turquoise but I haven't seen it like that when I went there, the place is full of icebergs. It was like a huge fridge for me. Though it was summer in Thailand where I live with the incredible high degrees, at Pangong Tso, it was freezing cold.
Even though the weather was freezing and the route was tough, surprisingly, there were many tourists and trekkers kept visiting Pangong Tso. The only shared goals that we had was to explore it for its irresistible beauty and its charming turquoise lake.
Nine@Pangong Tso/2011
written by inine on 2011-12-13 #places #india #location #urban-adventures #select-type-of-location #ladakh #pangong #leh
translated by neua


text:
Browsing Maryland State, County and Baltimore City Atlases by Subject "Woodsboro (Md.)--Maps"
Now showing items 1-1 of 1
Union Bridge and Woodsboro Quadrangles Hydrogeologic Atlas (Baltimore: Department of Natural Resources, Maryland Geological Survey, 1981)Quadrangle Atlas No. 17. Includes Sheets: Map 1. Slope of Land Surface (SLOPE). Map 2. Depth to the Water Table (WT). Map 3. Availability of Ground Water (GW). Map 5. Locations of Wells and Springs (WS). NOTE: Map 4. ...


text: While I can't speak to Danielle's request on food that is available in Ireland, I can write a bit about scones. Traditional scones are made with lots of butter. Often six to 12 sticks of butter can constitute part of a recipe for a dozen of those tasty tea companions. Six to twelve STICKS of butter? Did you maybe mean six to twelve TABLESPOONS? It's still nowhere near lowfat, though. -- Jane mailto:labrys@xxxxxxxxxxxxx Affordable computer, Internet, office classes-- anyone, any time, anywhere! http://www.brokersys.com/training


text:
Ms rakowski, 39, is a photo editor at metropolis magazine and the creator of herstory, an instagram account that surfaces lesbian imagery.
Search for lesbian singles in the uk online on the guardian soulmates dating site find your perfect date online with soulmates.
Hook up with optimistic people | casual dating swdatingsmqz digitalmediadesignus single lesbian women in soldotna salantai mature women personals.
Looking for women seeking women and lasting love connect with lesbian singles dating and looking for lasting love on our site find out more here.


text:
It looks like you're using an Ad Blocker.
Please white-list or disable AboveTopSecret.com in your ad-blocking tool.
Thank you.
Some features of ATS will be disabled while you continue to use an ad-blocker.
Originally posted by Beavers
reply to post by rkingpin
Amazing, do you think they travelled in time to get the spray paint or do you think CFC's wiped out their civilization?


text:
Quotes for Healing After Trauma
thought if I could touch this place or feel it this brokenness
Anderson Silvas Doctor Not Concerned With Age In Healing Process
Quotes About Healing After Death of Loved One
am a , not a victim |
Death Of A Relative Quotes. QuotesGram
grief #eol #goodgrief #sad #help #quote #mourning #lovealways #
Extreme or "Malignant" Narcissism
healing and recovery. Anyone who cares about the trauma and triumph of
Hope when there was none: November 2011
Cycle of abuse - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Addiction Recovery Quotes on Pinterest | Recovery Quotes, Addiction
Retreats - Malamapono-Hawaiian Healing Hub Galiano Island & Vancouver
Do I Need to 'Walk On Eggshells' When Talking About Positive Birth
SURVIVING the Holidays on Pinterest | Abuse Survivor, Dysfunctional


text:
Focus Group Thinks Obama Won Debate But Still Don't Trust Him
Too much.
Evidently those "negative attacks" pointing out Barack Obama's associations with terrorists, racists and ACORN have taken a toll on the Democratic candidate. Obama didn't help himself this week by pretending he didn't know his pal Bill Ayers was an unrepentant radical.
A Frank Luntz focus group on FOX News agreed that Barack Obama won the debate but they still don't trust him and won't vote for him.
Here's the video:
No one expected McCain to match Obama's speaking skills.
But, McCain did himself a favor by constantly reminding viewers that Obama talks a good game but his words can't be trusted.
That hurt and will continue to hurt Obama.
As a privately owned web site, we reserve the right to edit or remove comments that contain spam, advertising, vulgarity, threats of violence, racism, anti-Semitism, or personal/abusive attacks on other users. The same applies to trolling, the use of multiple aliases, or just generally being a jerk. Enforcement of this policy is at the sole discretion of the site administrators and repeat offenders may be blocked or permanently banned without warning. Guest posting is disabled for security reasons.


text:
It would be nice to know that less than 316,000 people died in the January 2010 Haitian earthquake. News reports from the AP and the NY Times are suggesting that a new US government-sponsored report will show many fewer Haitian deaths.
A US-Commissioned report has said that far fewer than 316,000 people died in the massive earthquake in Haiti on January 12 last year.
The Associated Press said that the report projects that the death toll was between 46,000 and 85,000, far below the Haitian government's official figure of 316,000. The report was prepared for the U.S. Agency for International Development but has not yet been publicly released, AP said.
Early reports from the leaked document suggest that numbers of homeless may also have been overreported. But all this may come down to differing methodologies for measuring such things. One hopes that the flow of aid to Haiti will not be threatened if the numbers are challenged. It was still a disaster of mind-blowing proportions.


text: Andalusia D12-55-9 - Bar Stool W/Back W: 22.50 in D: 27.50 in H: 47.75 in Product Details Material Powder Coated Aluminum Weight 41 lb Volume 22 cft COM 2.50 yrd COL 43 sq. ft. Documents Product Care Certifications Resources Add Item to Wishlist Find a Dealer Share Print this Page Email this Page Include Additional 'As Shown' Information? Yes No As Shown Finishes Dimensions


text:
« The Reagan Standard: Is a False Narrative Destroying the GOP? | Main | Conduct Unbecoming »
March 14, 2009
Judge Orders Mother to Cease Home Schooling
am still trying to decide what I think about this situation:
A judge in Wake County said three Raleigh children need to switch from home school to public school. Judge Ned Mangum is presiding over divorce proceeding of the children's parents, Thomas and Venessa Mills.
Venessa Mills was in the fourth year of home schooling her children who are 10, 11 and 12 years old. They have tested two years above their grade levels, she said.
"We have math, reading; we have grammar, science, music," Venessa Mills said.
Her lessons also have a religious slant, which the judge said was the root of the problem.
"My teaching is strictly out of the Bible, and it's very clear. It is very evident so I just choose to follow the Bible," Venessa Mills said.
In an affidavit filed Friday in the divorce case, Thomas Mills stated that he "objected to the children being removed from public school." He said Venessa Mills decided to home school after getting involved with Sound Doctrine church "where all children are home schooled."
Thomas Mills also said he was "concerned about the children's religious-based science curriculum" and that he wants "the children to be exposed to mainstream science, even if they eventually choose to believe creationism over evolution."
In an oral ruling, Mangum said the children should go to public school.
"He was upfront and said that, 'It's not about religion.' But yet when it came down to his ruling and reasons why, 'He said this would be a good opportunity for the children to be tested in the beliefs that I have taught them,'" Venessa Mills said.
All sides agree the children have thrived with home school, and Vanessa Mills thinks that should be reason enough to continue teaching at home.
This is one of those odd situations where I can see both sides of the argument.
It is hardly unreasonable for a father to want some influence over his children's upbringing. A child's school curriculum and religious training play an enormous role in his intellectual and moral development.
The article didn't state how much child support this gentleman is paying, nor does it spell out the custody arrangements. But presumably since neither parental rights nor parental obligations terminate upon divorce, he is paying child support. And it would be next to impossible for the mother to home school 3 children who are constantly shuttling back and forth between two households. So it seems reasonable to conclude the mother has full custody and the father, visitation rights.
I'm leery of the notion that paying child support "buys" the right to participate in the upbringing of your own children. Children are not commodities. On the other hand, a parental interest in child rearing doesn't magically go away simply because two adults choose to walk away from their marriage vows.
But even though I can understand the father's concerns, the judge's rationale strikes me as almost spectacularly dishonest. In family courts the controlling issue is supposed to be the best interest of the child. This is so because children don't choose to have their families broken into pieces: this unpleasant turn of events was foisted on them by their parents.
I see little rational justification for concluding the only way to provide exposure to evolution based science texts is to remove three children from a challenging curriculum which provides lots of individual attention and place them in a less challenging one where they will receive very little. It also makes little sense to uproot these kids from the secure and familiar social environment they've enjoyed for years (they attend a church where most families home school) and force them, in addition to dealing with the pain and loss of divorce, to adjust to yet another upheaval simply because one class the father wants them to have is missing from the curriculum.
Could the father's concerns not be addressed by adding a evolution-based science text to their studies? If science is such a priority to the father, can he not take his children to museums? Or buy them books and videos which expose them to these concepts?
Full disclosure: I home schooled my sons for a year. The curriculum I used, though I'm an Episcopalian, was a fundamentalist Christian one. We dealt with the disparity between our beliefs and my sons' curriculum by talking to our children about values. You know: that whole parenting/teachable moment thing?
After one year in this curriculum both my children's test scores shot through the roof even though they'd previously attended the best private school in the area. The science and math texts in particular, though they did include some fundamentalist sermonizing, were far more rigorous and thorough than anything they experienced before or subsequently - either in public or private school. I looked at the situation a net plus: an opportunity to discuss what we believe - and why - with our children.
It's not hard to turn this scenario on its face and imagine the judge's ruling if the children had been in public school, the mother was not religious, and it was instead the father who objected to the evolution-based science text used in the school. Let's assume the mother still has full custody and the father visitation rights.
Does anyone seriously believe that judge would have ordered the mother to remove the children from public school and change to an entirely faith-based curriculum simply to ensure their exposure to creationist science texts?
If you do, there's a very large bridge I'd like to sell you. Something tells me the policy preferences of the father and judge played a far larger role in the disposition of this case than the best interest of the children.
What say you?
Posted by Cassandra at March 14, 2009 07:29 AM
Trackback Pings
TrackBack URL for this entry:
I'm not a constitutional expert. But, I wonder if the judges ruling might violate the free exercise clause of the first amendment.
I'm not religous. But believe people should be free to practice their beliefs unless they are causing harm to someone else.
Posted by: Schnauzer at March 14, 2009 08:44 AM
Something tells me the policy preferences of the father and judge played a far larger role in the disposition of this case than the best interest of the children.
Huh? A judge letting his personal bias influence his ruling?
Quelle surprise...non.
Posted by: BillT at March 14, 2009 09:04 AM
I am most bothered by the disregard of the best interests of the child priniciple for deciding the issue. If the children were testing behind grade level, if they were having behavior problems, if there was some evidence for abuse or neglect, it might make more sense.
The judge seems to be saying that not teaching children about evolution is educational neglect. If that is the case, have they actually tested the children to see if they are knowledgable regarding the theory of evolution. Many times, evolutionists stereotype creationists as knowing nothing about evolutionary theory and they are surprised to discover it is often untrue. How can you truly hold a belief if you haven't investigated and examined the other options?
Posted by: baberuth at March 14, 2009 10:17 AM
To sum up: The judge is wrong, the father is being manipulative (typical in divorce cases where the children are pawns) and the mother is trying her best.
I use a Mennonite grammar curriculum. So far, no problems. I also use Christian Liberty Press's Streams of Civilization for World History, as well as Skousen's 5,000 Year Leap, in addition to Holy Writ.
I balance that with writings on Western Civ, teaching mythology and evolution as fun, but necessary things to learn simply because to NOT expose them to other beliefs is to assume that they will always believe the way I do. They have to be challenged, and their beliefs will be tested. The premise of any education, regardless of humanist or religious basis, is to teach one to think, reason and study it out for themselves.
Of course, a faith-based education also includes prayer and a belief in a Supreme Being or Beings.
It does not stifle the natural curiosity to learn about other religions. This coming Tuesday, our Scout troop (I deliberately chose a non-LDS troop PRECISELY for that reason..exposure to other faiths) is going to the local mosque in Fayetteville to have a meeting with their BSA troop.
Shoot me.
Posted by: Cricket at March 14, 2009 10:33 AM
The argument of 'what is best for the children' is definitely a can of worms, because it lets the nose of the state into the tent. The mother has done a stellar job in terms of the children's academic progress. I fail to see how putting them in school would serve their interests; unless they have AP classes to put them in. Otherwise, they will be bored and just might not have reason to be interested in school, socialization and 'exposure' notwithstanding, especially if they have to repeat work, or worse yet, act dumb in order to avoid getting beat up.
One of the arguments I heard was about their social skills...my children would lack 'proper' socialization. Funny that they weren't worried about academics.
I shall leave you with a Thought:
This ruling begs the philosophical question of whose children they are; the state's or the parents'? Especially since the mother has custody and the father is asking the state to intervene.
Posted by: Cricket at March 14, 2009 10:43 AM
Okay, this is an interesting issue for me.
I have an 8 year old boy with my ex-wife. She has full custody. I have (theoretically) visitation rights for one weekend a month, but since she moved him 3 states away (with no notice, in violation of the court order) I have effectively no rights whatsoever, regardless of what child support I pay. (And no, I can't get a court to care about her moving away.)
Anyway. The point of it is, this guy was lucky. He got a court to actually pay attention to what he wanted, and consider that he actually had some rights. Maybe paying support does buy you some rights in some states (just not mine).
I had tapes of my ex talking about screwing her friends' husbands while I was out at sea, doing drugs with her (then 15-year-old sister) WHILE BREASTFEEDING. I had my own apartment and a job, she was unemployed and wanted to live in one room / one bed in her dad's house. There was no history of violence / abuse / drugs on my part, and she even admitted that to the judge.
And yet I still couldn't even buy any fucking rights whatsoever.
I say, good for this guy. He fought, he ... well, he didn't -totally- win, but he got SOMETHING. More than I came away with. Good for him.
Posted by: LT Rusty, USNR at March 14, 2009 12:01 PM
Lt. Rusty,
I'm very sorry about your situation. I hope something changes for you. If your ex finds a boyfriend who doesn't like hanging with an 8-year-old, you may find him back on your doorstep, probably to the good of all involved.
Posted by: MathMom at March 14, 2009 12:19 PM
In what way is this mother's choice of curriculum and social mentoring of her children different than the Amish? They certainly don't fit in to American society, what with the uniform for men and women and the lack of electricity. But this judge would not get any traction telling them to put their kids in public school.
If her children are testing above grade level, the judge should butt out.
Posted by: MathMom at March 14, 2009 12:25 PM
LT. Rusty, I too, am sorry about your situation.
I hope you regain custody of him soon and that he is safe and sound. If you have been reading this blog for any length of time, you will know that those of us who are married to members of the military have deplored that kind of behavior.
What we are talking about though, is not the neglect on the part of the mother, but a judge's personal bias, despite the evidence to the contrary that the children are neglected by being homeschooled.
This man may have gotten a judge to listen to him, but for what reasons? What negligence was there other than supposedly not teaching evolution? That is hardly a crime.
Posted by: Cricket at March 14, 2009 01:31 PM
Hmm. As Cassandra says, there are other ways for the father to make sure his kids get what he thinks they need on top of mom's home schooling rather than instead of it. If his concern is with their religious training, Dad can certainly arrange for the kids go to his church as well as mom's and/or receive training in his religion. If he doesn't have a religion then he can just talk to his kids about why he believes (or doesn't believe) the way he does.
As for more mainstream science stuff, if Dad doesn't have time or doesn't think he can do a good job of explaining this stuff, how about a summer program or summer science camp? Or hiring a financially desperate college kid to tutor the kids in science? Or maybe the kids could even attend one of those public school summer courses for kids who are in danger of being "held back". (Assuming they still have those.) Or just ask the public schools what books they use to teach science and make sure the kids get those, then talk to the kids about them when they visit.
In fact, all of this is so obvious that I figure either Dad was trying to be difficult or Mom was refusing to let Dad do any of this or both. (If this is an example of how these parents try to accommodate each others beliefs while making sure they do the best for their kids, I'm not surprised they're divorced.)
The real problem here is the judge. Even if Dad was being difficult and Mom was being stubborn, he should have been smart enough - and impartial enough - to order them to sit down and pick one of the options that allowed Dad some influence while keeping the kids in an environment that's wildly successful academically.
Posted by: Elise at March 14, 2009 01:47 PM
A parent's primary responsibility is to do what is in the best interest of their children. The father has failed in this instance.
The court's primary responsibility is to make sure that the best interests of the children are being upheld in accordance of the law. The judge has failed in this instance.
My hope is that this woman has been in contact with Home Schooling Legal Defense Association.
Posted by: HomefrontSix at March 14, 2009 04:43 PM
There are not enough details to this story to conclude anything but that the judge is overreaching his authority. He is clearly not acting in the best interests of the children.
I see no evidence supporting one parent or the other in the story, but I do see conclusions being reached due to personal circumstances in this thread.
Posted by: Chris at March 14, 2009 07:07 PM
... all of this is so obvious that I figure either Dad was trying to be difficult or Mom was refusing to let Dad do any of this or both. (If this is an example of how these parents try to accommodate each others beliefs while making sure they do the best for their kids, I'm not surprised they're divorced.)
And the judge's response was to try to slay a gnat with a sledgehammer.
To Chris, I think there are two pieces of evidence in this story that support the mother's view:
1. The kids are testing several years above their grade level.
It's hard to argue, given these results, that the children are being harmed academically by the home school curriculum. I would think that any substitution of governmental authority for parental authority should proceed only upon a compelling demonstration of harm.
2. All parties to this suit agree that the children are thriving academically.
From the facts present, the father isn't arguing that public school will improve their overall educational outcome -- only that he wants them exposed to evolution-based scientific theory.
The way I see it, the weight of evidence heavily favors the status quo.
Posted by: Cass at March 15, 2009 09:59 AM
I say, good for this guy. He fought, he ... well, he didn't -totally- win, but he got SOMETHING. More than I came away with. Good for him.
Lt. Rusty:
Two thoughts:
1. Is this about Mom's rights vs. Dad's rights, or about what is best for your son? Speaking as a mother who deferred college and a career for literally decades (both things I very much wanted) in order to provide the best possible environment for my two boys, I can testify that women have to make choices like this all the time.
From what you describe, the family court failed to adequately balance the rights of your son and your rights as a father with those of your wife. But I think I can see what the court was thinking, too.
I am pretty certain she got custody b/c you're in the military. The court probably examined the "stability" aspect of your son's welfare and concluded that the possibility of deployment was a powerful argument against awarding you custody.
The bottom line here is that unless you can demonstrate that you can provide security and stability for your son, no court is going to give you custody, especially during wartime.
If you are serious about this, you might try going back to the Court and saying, "My son's welfare is so important to me that I've made arrangements to provide stability and security". And that would have to be followed by you, perhaps, finding an occupation that doesn't involve protracted absences, or having your Mom move in with you to provide continuity in the event of a deployment if you stayed in. Perhaps not palatable to you, but then we're talking about what is best for your son in the wake of a divorce.
The court, fairly or unfairly, most likely concluded that even an imperfect mother all the time was better than a father who couldn't promise to be there.
I'm not an attorney but I used to be a paralegal and I worked in a family law practice as well as working with the military on guardianship and adoption matters.
If you're seriously concerned about your son, think about talking to a family law attorney. If you really think your ex-wife is not a responsible guardian, you owe it to your son to challenge the custody award. But absent evidence that your son's welfare comes first in your life, few judges will take such a petition seriously, much less overturn an existing custody arrangement.
Just my two cents, and good luck to you :)
Posted by: Cass at March 15, 2009 10:14 AM
Yes...there is that Family Plan that has to be in place. Ask JAG what the details are and see if you are able to take advantage of it.
One of the reasons the Engineer retired early was due to my injuries and our family situation. He had enough time in. Had we not had that happen, he would have been back for another year. No big deal, as we were having a blast while he was gone and gazing into the Dell Palantir to keep tabs on him when he scheduled a chat from Mordor.
Posted by: Cricket at March 15, 2009 10:46 AM
Cass -
I got out of the Navy 6 months before filing for divorce, specifically so that my active duty wouldn't be a problem in a custody fight.
Posted by: LT Rusty at March 15, 2009 01:10 PM
Well, that changes the assessment. What state did you live in when the award was rendered?
I've written before about how difficult it is to overcome the presumption that the mother is a better parent. If your deployment wasn't a factor, that changes the entire calculation.
Trust me, I wasn't saying the fact that you're male didn't play into the decision. Just that (since your moniker made me think you were still on active duty) that the court was not likely to award custody to a parent who was likely to deploy (especially if your wife had - supposedly - the support of her family).
I'm sure that you have been fighting this already, but did you/can you appeal the custody award? I still don't think, given your comments about the mother's behavior, the court made the right decision. But I've seen enough custody battles to know most courts assume the mother is the better parent. Obviously, that's not always the case.
Posted by: Cass at March 15, 2009 01:24 PM
Welcome to an areas where tons of northern Libs are moving. Education in NC is continuing to decline, no matter how much money is pumped in to the system. Here in Wake County, every few years the school system hoses the lives of kids and parents through forcing the kids to change to a different school in the name of diversity, often sending kids in the same family to schools on different sides of the county. Kids have to get up earlier, etc and so on. Some kids are put in year round schools, while siblings may be in standard. This often happens on a judges order, not just the arbitrary rulings of the school board, which is completely unresponsive and virtually uncaring about kids, parents, and families.
And now we have this. Disgusting and embarrassing. But, normal behavior for liberals. I wonder when the NC ACLU will get involved to protect this woman and her kids' freedom of religion? Not holding my breath.
Posted by: William Teach at March 15, 2009 01:35 PM
I wonder when the NC ACLU will get involved to protect this woman and her kids' freedom of religion? Not holding my breath.
Some Constitutional rights are more equal than others :p
Posted by: George Orwell at March 15, 2009 01:37 PM
If the kids are testing above grade level and staying out of trouble, I don't see any basis for criticizing the mother's choice of education for them. As long as she has custody, she should call the shots on education. If the dad wanted to call those shots, he should have stayed married or gotten custody for himself. The judge was WAY out of line.
Personally, I believe in evolution, but I'd never try to overrule a parent's choice of how to educate his own kids just because I disagreed with him on evolution. The kids are testing well in science, so they're obviously developing critical skills in that area. They can sort through the controversy themselves by the time they come of age.
Posted by: Texan99 at March 15, 2009 03:37 PM
I don't see any basis for criticizing the mother's choice of education for them
The mother is offending liberal sensibilities, so, she must pay.
I believe in a combo between evolution and Intelligent Design, not a believer in Creationism, but, who am I to tell someone who does believe that they cannot teach it to their children. Well, I'm not a Wake County judge, I know that.
Posted by: William Teach at March 15, 2009 03:49 PM
That is ironic. One of the biggest arguments for homeschooling is consistency of curriculum and teachers, because with the expectations don't change and the child is challenged.
Political considerations aside, the one thing that most school districts have not adopted is a national curriculum. That would almost be tantamount to the accusation of brainwashing, and in that particular instance, it would stick.
I had to teach creationism, not because the states forced it on me, but because sooner or later they were going to have to deal with it.
Just like 'health and guidance' (the junior high euphemism for sex education), I didn't want my children finding out about evolution on the street. :)
We do have Darwin's Origin of the Species, and some other books that discuss and delve into the subject as a stand-alone deal, not to mention many National Geographics that also touch on the subject in numerous articles as either a preface to the history of whatever tribe or country being considered, or as an aspect of history in its own right.
While I am a Creationist/Intelligent Design believer, I want my children to believe in not just from a faith or spirit standpoint, but also from a Reason perspective.
We have a few copies of the Humanist magazine lying around, as well as a couple of copies of the Humanist Manifestos I & II and the Communist Manifesto.
You may now pass out.
Posted by: Cricket at March 15, 2009 07:03 PM
Cass -
Mesa, AZ. Mormon capital of ... well, the world outside Utah, where my ex-wife was from, and has moved back to. Even though she was (quite obviously) a -very- lapsed Mormon.
Posted by: LT Rusty, USNR at March 15, 2009 07:32 PM
To be honest, I'm not clear on the "other side" that Cass is seeing. While I think the mother is a dufus for rejecting evolution (see next missive), that's between her and her kids and the science testing regimen that presumably meets standards. If they are aware of evolution enough to pass tests about it, I don't see a problem. They'll get a chance to treat it seriously before long -- they aren't at the rebellious years quite yet.
> only that he wants them exposed to evolution-based scientific theory.
An idea I support wholeheartedly, but this hardly requires inflicting the Horrors of Public Schools on them.
Posted by: Obloodyhell at March 16, 2009 06:56 AM
The biggest problem I have with Creationism (Creative Design, Intelligent Design, Flying Sphagetti Monster Origination Theory, whatever) is that it basically requires a defective faith in God in the first place.
To wit:
1) God wants you to believe in Him based solely on Faith, not on Causation.
It seems incredibly obvious that, if God wanted to be Proven, He'd open up the Heavens, Send down a Real Bright Light, and say, in a quite unavoidably Godlike voice, "I'm HERE you IDIOTS.", or something to that effect.
In short, there would be no question, no doubt, no need for Faith at all.
He does not do so, hence, for whatever reasons He may have, He wants us to have Faith, not Proof.
2) The chief arguments for ID, etc., are basically in direct contravention to that principle in #1 -- They suggest that God isn't smart enough to have created a place which reason, evidence and experience cannot explain WITHOUT resort to Him.
In other words, ID says He could not have created a place which does not clearly require His existence to make it.
In actual fact, true Faith says that He is, at best, an alternative explanation, that He either used the processes of evolution to make life, or He planted the evidence for evolution when He waved his hand and made the place instantly from nothing. Either of which are completely indistinguishable, as I'm sure He did a perfect job if it was The Latter.
3) Science isn't about Faith, it's about Truth, and Reasoning about Truth. It's not our technologies, or our ideas. It's simply a method for deriving reliable distinctions between what We Know and what We Don't Know. It has nothing whatsoever to say about anything which is Faith. Faith exists to deal with a wholly different problem set from what Science deals with. Evolution is Science. The information derived thereby is passed through an extensive collection of tests and checks and, so far, has passed them better than any alternative idea. If, at some point, a major rejection point is encountered, it will be discarded, and quickly. This has already happened at least twice in Science -- Look up Phlogiston Chemistry and Ether Physics. Both were centuries-long established theories for how physical processes worked -- and the latter concept -- Ether -- was dethroned and tossed out as a result of a single scientific experiment which failed to replicate essential expectations from the theory.
Science WORKS. The planes fly, the TVs televise the GPS tracks. And it's all inter-related. You can't toss out one concept arbitrarily without ripple effects all through the system. If paleontology is radically wrong, it means that forensics is radically wrong, too. It means that Petrogeology is radically wrong, as well. And those problems would be showing up all the time when we attempt to act on those day-to-day sciences, which, "unlike evolution" ARE constantly tested by real-world events.
4) The biggest problem with most adherents to ID is that not only are they claiming that God ain't that Godlike, but they also fail to grasp that evolution -- Science -- is NOT at odds with Faith. As I said, Science only says things about verifiable, objective information.
God, as a deity-defined matter of Faith, is NOT a verifiable, objective subject. Science and Faith are not at odds with one another, they are complimentary. Sometimes things move from one realm to the other, but this is just a fact of our understanding, and not a challenge, question, or doubt about either one or its place in the human spirit.
In short, ID is just flat-out wrongheaded.
It's an attempt to dress up a Faith based concept in Pseudo-Scientific trappings.
That's putting lipstick on a pig and calling it Senator Teddy Kennedy. Granted, the pig has more morals, but they ain't the same thing, not by a long shot. At the very least, frying up the pig and eating it ain't against Nature, to say nothing of a lot more healthy.
Posted by: Obloodyhell at March 16, 2009 07:25 AM
To be honest, I'm not clear on the "other side" that Cass is seeing.
The other side I'm seeing is the father's desire to have a say in the upbringing of his own children.
I think it's not necessarily unreasonable for a father who (for instance) didn't believe in God to object to his children being immersed in not just a religious curriculum, but one that arguably runs completely counter to the values he holds.
I could also understand a father who DID believe in God objecting to the mother's raising children in a faith that requires its adherents to submit to temporal human (aka, Church) authority. I happen to believe in more of a 'thinking Christian' tradition in which hopefully intelligent people attempt to learn God's will by study and rational inquiry rather than by being told what God really meant.
Does that mean we can't seek help in interpreting Scripture? No. Does that mean Scripture always says whatever the heck we want it to?
No. I think we have to be reasonable in our interpretation and study in good faith. But I don't personally believe I will go to Hell if I interpret it differently than another human being and I would very likely object to my children being raised in such a tradition.
Posted by: Cass at March 16, 2009 08:02 AM
The problem is that your view of ID is that it's Creationism with "New and Improved" technobabble.
You are right that ID is contradictory to faith (which is why Creationists don't like it). But ID never posits a creator that is deified. In fact, it doesn't posit anything on the nature of a creator. It could be a deity, it could be an entity existing in several of the other 11 dimensions (it's 11 dimensions for string theory or M Theory or whatever they're calling it these days, right?), it could be Extra-Terrestrial life. ID doesn't know, nor does it really care.
For example, let's say that scientists one day were to be able to create artficial life. They specifically design it to survive in conditions similar to Mars and then plopped it there.
Wouldn't this life be "Intelligently Designed". After all, a Diety didn't create it and neither did evolution. At least at first.
Furthermore, let's say that millions of years later, intellegent life evolved from what we "planted". Are the only legitimate answers to "What created us?" a Diety or evolution? Would searching out for their human creators be wrong-headed?
Posted by: Yu-Ain Gonnano at March 16, 2009 10:45 AM
As a homeschooling mom, I can say this decision did not surprise me. Bugged me, yes. But did not surprise me. We've been investigated ourselves because our decision to homeschool was not popular.
When my eldest daughter went back into public schools in high school, despite the fact that she had passed (at age 13 no less) two AP exams with 4s and one with a 3, we offered an educational portfolio and we also offered to have her tested in each subject by one of the professional tutoring companies to prove her competency, the school refused to consider giving credits for work completed during homeschool. Apparently AP exams are good enough for colleges to accept, but not a high school in a po-dunk town with a liberal entrenched teaching faculty that takes mortal umbrage when someone does their job more successfully than they manage to.
This is a serious problem for military families, since homeschooling is the only real option at some assignments (like, for instance, Guam) where the schools are academically less than decent. The real problem with all this is not socialization or academic progress (especially since academic progress is so easily checked through testing or independent evaluation), it is that yet another group of liberally education professionals can't handle the fact that their indoctrination may not be the best way to teach every child.
HF6 was 100% right - HSLDA is the only way to go for such families. The organization is incredible.
I'd like anyone who has met my kids to honestly assess that they have issues with socialization! For goodness sake - at some point the ridiculousness becomes a caricature.
Posted by: airforcewife at March 16, 2009 12:04 PM
I say it was an opportunity to stick a finger in his ex-wife's eye without any personal involvement on his part.
You said it yourself. He could home school them himself when they were in his custody. But that would take time and effort and isn't really a lot of fun.
This is much easier. And he also would not be on the hook for his share of obligatory home school materials (public school is paid for by taxes he already pays so is effectively "free" for him).
Posted by: Tony at March 16, 2009 12:26 PM
The issue is not the religious overtones. The issue is that the judge interfered with something that he should not have. The education choices of the mother were clearly working.
I, for one, have no problem with evolution vs. creationism. I am a Christian but see that, (as Thomas Aquinas said,) faith and reason walk together. The attempts by athiests to use evolution to deny the possiblity of God will seriously backfire over the long term, but is creating a lot of unnecessary discord in the meantime.
But the issue is: Who has responsibility for educating the children? Parents? Local school boards? States? Federal government? Judges? I am in favor of keeping that responsibility as close to the parents and local school boards as possible.
Home schools are proving to be much better than public and many private schools. Kids grow up and will eventually decide many things for themselves. Whose values should they be taught in the meantime? I vote for the parents!
That these two parents are unable to agree to those values is clear. Sorry, but since the side-by-side value of educational excellence is clearly being met in a spectacular way, the court should back off! Dad needs to get a grip and stop using this as a way to prove he can get control. Both parents lose since it is now the judge with control of how the kids are raised.
Some of the parents in my extended family were able to keep a parent home and homeschooled. All their children went to fine universities and are contributing members of society.
My daughter went to a small Christian school for her first 6 years. (Yes, their science classes taught evolution!) While the sponsoring church taught some doctrines I strongly disagreed with, my daughter seems to have had no lasting harm.
She went public in jr. high and in spite of taking the advanced classes I don't see her as strong in her academics now that she is a jr. in high school. Her personal beliefs are slightly different than mine, and that is ok. I also figure she will be refining her beliefs over the next 20 years and I hope to hear less parroting of the stuff she hears in school. Her Christian school did not encourage such "parroting" but encouraged more weighing of different theories and beliefs. I will trust that the early training will prevail.
But the overriding point is that the judge shold not be the main factor in deciding how the kids are educated and what they should believe.
Posted by: chularose at March 16, 2009 05:14 PM
Posted by: Cricket at March 16, 2009 08:18 PM


text:
I've been called pretty boy although im chubby? Girls, opinions?
Have an opinion?
yes he can.
Would you give him a shot or no?
I've seen fat guys with girly pretty faces, but they aren't really pretty boys because pretty boys have the physicality of weasels.
True most of the times pretty boys are guys with scrawny bodies and a pretty face
Yeah, that's the classic.. look at Justin Beiber and 1 Direction!
You cannot undo this action. The opinion owner is going to be notified and earn 7 XPER points.


text:
Visit my very erotic and lustful world where all of Your fantasies will come true. I want You to indulge me, explore my body! I'm waiting for You to make sure You will remember me.
You 've reached the maximum length of this message (140 characters).
Thank you love
kiss u welcome
LiveJasmin Team wishes you a very Happy Birthday!
so sexy!
gracias amor besitos
she is the best model ever in this wensite
tan lindo amor, gracias
perfect body friendly and playful!
You've reached the maximum length of this message (140 characters).
The site contains sexually explicit material. Enter ONLY if you are at least 18 years old and agree to our cookie rules.
18 U.S.C. 2257 Record-Keeping Requirements Compliance Statement
This site is owned and operated by Duodecad IT Services Luxembourg S.à.r.l.
© 2018 LiveJasmin.com - All Rights Reserved!


text:
Due to the popularity of Carlos Serrano's Adele & Daft Punk mash-up, "Something About The Fire," we now can enjoy an original visual to go along with the record. Directed by Jason Ano, the man behind A$AP Rocky's "Purple Swag" & Skrillex's "Rock n Roll," the video features a woman who is in-tune with time and space as well as the tempo of Adele's elegant vocals while never missing a beat of Daft Punk's futuristic sound.
Music Video: Adele vs. Daft Punk – Something About The Fire (Carlos Serrano Mix)
Highsnobiety Music


text:
Ok people really? im not trying to discriminate anyone who beleives this but this is bullshit. Whoever created this sight is obviosly a smart man and an even better buissness man but this is fucking retarded.
1.Spaggetti was created in the 9th century. PEOPLE created spaggetti in ITALY. So how is Spaggetti creating shit that created it? Everyone who beleives this i am sincerely sorry you beleive this shit and i hope you do whatever makes you happy and one day you will find the one true lord god.
Ok people really?
242 Responses to "Ok people really?"
Present homo sapiens came into being only @ 100,000 years ago. How could a homo sapiens by the name of jeebus creating things that created it?
Nice try. Apply your logic to your "lord."
Invisible sky fairies creating everything has as much validity as the FSM does.
Yawn…please we need a different hate…please bring your hate to the next level…bring your A game or go home…BWAHAHAHA
Can I just ask Bobby if it would be at all possible to ignore pointless, dull, backward hatemail like this?
I know there must be plenty of very intelligent skygod lovers out there who could more than hold their own in a goood argument. We really need them to join in otherwise it's gonna get real boring.
These are the same people who start wars over fuck all and shizzle…
Just think for a moment. What if Pastafarianism had been around for these couple thousand years, and is totally established as the dominant religion. And then along comes this new religion called Christianity with a totally boring god, and a totally boring religion, and a totally boring heaven.
Also, people had to come up with the idea of God too. And if you can think of something to counter that, where did he come from? I mean he can't just be there wasting away infinitely and all of a sudden come up with the idea that he will create a planet with totally messed up creatures called Humans that are violent, sexist, racist, and a long list of other things (in his image).
Seriously? Almost no one believes in this. They're just doing to make fun people like you who believe that an old fart lives in the clouds.
Why is it always I hope that you do whatever makes you happy, but in the end you need to find happiness my way. Jesus, you sound like my mother…
I hope that one day you can find happiness on your own.
In Peace and Sauciness,
Really Bobby the quality of hate mail is really poor, could you get someone who actually can spell. I mean it is not much but a searing inditement of the education system that a semi-literate can send hate mail but that they should be able to grasp basic grammar too.


text:
Kitchen Design / August 30, 2018 / Céline Cary
Metal steel - These doors are often not produced by a cabinetmaker's shop, but are subcontracted away to a metallic shop. They are, without question, the many costly of your poor choices. ...
About Kinipela - Contact Us - Sitemap
Intellectual Property Protection - Privacy Policy - Terms of Use
© 2018 Kinipela. All rights reserved.


text:
Some really excellent posts above including yours Non.OP ,
After reading through your processes, which I thought were very good practice, the main things that struck me were location (which Dave mentioned). I'm not sure thois will be it as wild yeast causes more sourness than bandaid (I think ) You definitely can get this bandaid flavour though from infections, not just bleach etc.
Are you chiling with the kettle fully covered?
Is your whirlpool effective or can you skip[ that part? (Removing chiller and stirring with an implement allows opportunities for nasties. I don't think this is your problem though unless stirring with a wooden spoon.)
The fermenter tap which you don't use, are you removing it from the fermentor after each brew and cleaning and sanitising the thread and the tap? (You mention though that you bought a new fermentor. Did you buy a new tap as well? If so, did the problem go away for a while?)
What about buying a new bottling wand, syphon and bottling tubing? Have you tried the nostril test on the and tubing?
Running out of time but one other thing might be to smell your hoses. Some vinyls are crap and will give you that band-aid flavour. Usually it only occurrs though if the hoses get hot. Definitley smell them though.
Nice work
Post #26 made 4 years ago
If you have found the above or anything else of value on BIABrewer.info, consider supporting us by getting some BIPs!
- SVA Brewer With Over 100 Brews From Australia