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January 2017 - RUNNING & WALKING
Be Your Own Hero This Winter
By Laura Clark
There are some folks, like me, who live for winter; others have to be convinced. The ubiquitous quote, "There is no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothes," is the tipping point. If you are outfitted appropriately, less than ideal weather is a minor annoyance, and not a game changer.
The trick is to select the correct gear to brave the winter with confidence. Ever wonder why there are so many variations on a common theme? For the same reason there are a bewildering plethora of running shoes; no one model suits all. Before Christmas I eagerly anticipate the mail order catalogs and enjoy pouring over all the exciting gear, guaranteed to make me run more comfortably, and perhaps even faster. I try not to look at the prices. While a three digit figure is not unreasonable for equipment that will make a bitter cold snow adventure doable, I want to make sure the item is the right fit, and be able to debate pros and cons with a knowledgeable expert right there in the heat of the moment.
That is when the soon-to-become hackneyed phrase "Buy Local" assumes significance. We are fortunate that we have a variety of running stores here in the Capital Region and Adirondacks.
Road runners among you should check out iRun Local (irunlocal.com) in Saratoga Springs. Owners Jamie and Anthony Mastroianni urge the Christmas tree approach to winter darkness with traditional reflective vests supplemented by LEDs, especially lights that blink on and off, to get the attention of distracted drivers. Tops in this category would be the Amphipod Xinglet Flash LED vest with front and back lights. Black diamond headlamps are another mandatory item. And consider expanding this tactic to those non-dusk hours when snow and fog also limit visibility. To ensure against slipping on nearly invisible black ice, Jamie recommends slip-on Kahtoola Nano Spikes for added traction.
"If you'd prefer not to sport a ski mask on your friendly neighborhood run, we understand," Jamie quips. "The more hip and effective accessory is a balaclava… acting as a hat, scarf and face shield all in one." My problem areas are hands and feet, and for these appendages Jamie suggests Under Armour gloves lined with ColdGear infrared heating material, and the Swiftwick latest MAXUS sock with maximum cushioning.
If you prefer to heighten you winter adventures, Barbara Gillen of Fleet Feet Sports (fleetfeetalbany.com) with Albany and Malta branches, recommends Dion Snowshoes – handcrafted in North Bennington, Vt. – customized with your choice of interchangeable cleats and bindings. Now is the time to ditch those faithful sweatpants that get you tough guy points but little else. To remain toasty warm despite snow kick-up, try Mizumo Breath Thermo apparel which features synthetic active wear that reacts to moisture when you perspire to generate warmth, as well as merino wool offerings from Adidas and Icebreaker – and any Scandinavian brand, such as Craft and women's specific Kari Traa. For your pre-ski or snowshoe warmups, Barbara suggests Saucony Peregrine Ice, a trail shoe with a unique slip resistant outsole. Or, secure the Saucony Razor with attached gaiter to your Dion Snowshoes for a dry foot experience.
I am still somewhat old school and cling to my no frills trail shoes incased in mountain bike booties. For Planet Bike neoprene shoe covers, see Tone Ferradino at Spa City Bicycleworks (spacitybicycleworks.com) in Saratoga Springs, or another advertising bike shop in your area. Bring your shoes to Spa City and Tone will ensure the proper fit for a fraction of what you would pay online.
When temperatures hit the single digits, hydration may be the farthest thing from your mind, but for expeditions over an hour, it is not a good idea to rely on snow cones. For that matter, I can't tell you how many times I have headed out for an hour's exploration only to find that haphazard directional choices led me far astray. Not that I was actually lost… just temporarily spatially disoriented.
One of the coldest snowshoe races I have completed is Jeremy Drowne's Cock-A-Doodle-Shoe in Saranac, coming up January 15. Since Jeremy, Shannon and Matt Drowne own Kinetic Running (kineticrunning.net) in Plattsburgh, I figured they would be experts in keeping your hydration system from turning into a solid block of ice – short of resorting to the St. Bernard brandy-in-the-keg approach. Sure enough, Jeremy suggested insulated pouches for hydration bladders, as well as purchasing a neoprene sleeve for the hose. Check out their CamelBak insulated drink tubes for winter.
If you are making do with a non-insulated variety of anti-freeze, Jeremy advises prefilling with hot water, blowing your warm breath into the nozzle before you drink, and tucking the hose into your clothing. I have had success with the Mazama Sidestream waist pack, featuring a retractable hose system. For added insulation, the entire pack fits comfortably underneath your jacket.
Finally, with the 2017 World Snowshoe Championships 10K & 5K on February 15 in Saranac Lake, Gail Joseph and Bob Tysen of the Fallen Arch (thefallenarch.com) in Lake Placid anticipate lots of last-minute gear emergencies. More than that, as longtime snow and endurance sports enthusiasts, they are willing to share many tricks of the trade. For example, to combat "snow butt" – a chilling condition resulting from kicked-up snow – they suggest Brooks Seattle Shell jacket, which runs a little longer than most. Or, for a low-tech solution, simply wear a pair of shorts over your tights or don a tight-fitting triathlon short underneath.
For keeping feet dry, they suggest Brooks models with Gore-Tex bonded to the inside of the shoe, or the La Sportiva Cross Over GTX with an attached gaiter. If you favor flasks for hydration and nutrition, go with the new soft flasks as they have less tendency to freeze. And finally, Bob reminds cell phone users to stash their phones under their clothes to prevent battery drain.
After this primer, you should be all set for your heroic wintertime adventures. And what better reward than some downtime before a roaring fireplace, with a hot drink, and a good book. For something more interesting than yet another "run your best marathon" handbook, continue the hero theme with actual Greek heroes. Following up on Rick Riordan's middle grade Percy Jackson Series, are two stellar picks: Christopher McDougall, author of the blockbuster, Born to Run, presents his latest, Natural Born Heroes, and ultrarunner Dean Karnazes offers his The Road to Sparta.
In Natural Born Heroes, Chris McDougall explores an obscure but pivotal slice of history, how a band of ordinary citizens became Greek Resistance fighters to delay Hitler's Stalingrad campaign by kidnapping a German general, and evading thousands of German troops. Chris leaves the research library on an odyssey to discover what makes a hero. His journey takes him foraging for weeds with a ballerina in Brooklyn, scrambling over rooftops with a London parkour group, and clambering across Crete cave-by-cave to recreate the heroes' path.
In a long-overdue attempt to rediscover his roots, Dean Karnazes' The Road to Sparta tackles the 153-mile Spartahlon, tracing Pheidippides' 36-hour journey to enlist Spartan aid in the impending Persian attack against Athens. Disappointingly, Dean discovers that – unlike the Cretian resistance route – due to modern highways, Pheidippides' path can never be truly reconstructed. Nevertheless, during his journey, Dean gets inside the mind of this ancient ultrarunner, whose victory rescued Athens, thus safeguarding the development of Western civilization – and leaving us with the 26.2-mile marathon!
So this winter, fortified with the right gear and some inspirational reading, get out there and become your own hero!
Laura Clark (email@example.com) of Saratoga Springs is an avid trail runner, ultramarathoner, snowshoer and cross-country skier. She is a children's librarian at the Saratoga Springs Public Library.


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Beauty and Cosmetology
A career in beauty is where one is qualified in the cosmetology areas. This is on e discipline which actually spans across a wide variety of areas that one can consider when venturing into this career path. Cosmetology involves the area of self-beauty and personal wellbeing and is usually catered to women although men are fast beginning to take notice of its importance.
In most situations, cosmetologist are involved and trained in a specific expertise. This is where one can either be in the more focused and specialized like an aromatherapist or a hair stylist. One must be aware though that most modern salons today require you to be qualified in these areas before offering you employment at their organizations.
There are also the more generic pathways that one can choose to embark in which is to be involved with the likes of make-up and such. This is where one is able to offer make-up services either free-lance or through an agency. A career in make-up can be very lucrative and glamorous if one is able to find employment in the entertainment industry and be employed with television stations and such.
On top of that, hairdressers, hair stylists too will find a host of opportunities which can have very favourable returns as these are services which are constantly needed by people today. In some situations, cosmetology involves the area of well-being where one can be trained as a professional aromatherapist or a masseuse that offers relaxation and health-related services to the customers. Such therapy is one of the most highly demanded services today what with the fast moving and physically taxing industries around the world.
Generally, the beauty industry is one of the highest paying and lucrative industries today. One can either work in film and television and in the production studios, in spas and wellness centers, in research and development and most importantly, in the fashion industry. This is an industry where customers would usually stay loyal to a service if they are confident and will bring about repeat purchases all the time. Furthermore, one could also embark into their own businesses and offer such services to their own customers and clients.

subset: commoncrawl


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Ceremonial Candles
Traditional Japanese candle made from natural wax
It is believed that warousoku (Japanese candles) first came to Japan through the introduction of Buddhism and based on an item dating back to the Nara period (710-794 CE) which was made of beeswax collected from beehives. In the Edo period (1603-1868 CE), the cultivation of haze (wax trees), a raw material used in warousoku, flourished in Kyushu and Shikoku, and these candles came into wide use by the masses.
With it's good harbor, Nanao thrived as a port of call for cargo ships that sailed the Japan Sea during this era. These ships brought the wax used in warousoku from Kyushu, and washi (Japanese paper) used in the wick from Iwami (Shimane prefecture). After being manufactured in Nanao, warousoku were transported by the cargo ships once again, to areas across Japan. A candle making cooperative Rousokuza, was established in Nanao, and it continued into the middle of the Meiji period (1868-1912 CE). Today, TAKAZAWA Candle are continuing this tradition.
Warousoku have 2 traditional shapes. Ikarigata (anchor-shaped) widens at both the lower and upper parts and narrows in the center. The other shape, bougata (stick-shaped), is of cylindrical form. The term ikarigata is derived from the anchor of a ship, 'ikari' in Japanese.
There is both a scientific and aesthetic side to this unique shape. The upper part was designed to widen at the top to prevent wax from running down off of the candle after it had been lit. Additionally, this made the candle pleasant on the eye, and thus it came to have its current distinctive form.
Warousoku have 2 main characteristics. One is that they use plant-based raw materials, and the other lies in the special way the wick is made.
The candles use a wax that is derived from plant-based raw materials. Specifically, haze seeds, rapeseeds, and coconut oil are used. In contrast to animal-based raw materials, we have plants--these things that grow all around us--share the energy they develop and utilize that to make candles.
Warousoku became popular among people together with the spread of Buddhism, and in light of this historical background, one common use of these candles is as a tool for offering up prayer in places of worship. Examples of where they are used include temples, butsudan (Buddhist altars) in homes, and gravesites.
They have also come to be used as a way of making time for ourselves in the midst of busy, modern life. Candles can be lit as a way to make time for meditation or yoga, both of which restore calm to the body and mind, to ease tension after returning home from work, or to promote enjoyable conversation with family at dinner time. Their use as a way to make quality time that lasts until the flame extinguishes itself is becoming commonplace.
Use a candlestick that is the correct size for the candle. Secure the candle up right making sure it doesn't wobble, and light it in a place out of reach of wind and breezes.
A white powder may appear on the surface of warousoku. This is a trait unique to plant-based wax and occurs when the wax crystallizes. It is not a quality defect.
While the candle is burning, cut the black burnt part of the wick down to adjust the size of the flame. A specialist wick trimmer is recommended for this. Melted wax may splatter if you extinguish the candle by blowing it out.
Warm up wax left on the candlestick with warm water, melt, and rinse. Wipe the candlestick with a soft cloth and make sure to dry the candlestick completely before using it again.
Candles will melt if left in warm places such as a car in summer etc. Store them in cool places out of direct sunlight.
Warousoku burn with a large, bright flame. Keep the candle at a safe distance from other items and do not place flammable items above the candle.
These are for special private holy occasions. Not for a dinner party, etc. There is an occasion and your own performance when you burn it down. It can be considered similar to lighting a candle in a Catholic Church. We have a selection of these candles at our store in various shapes. Some with Buddhist marks.


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Are You A "Real" Photographer
PBS recently aired a short interview with Ken Van Sickle where he briefly spoke about his career and what has happened now that technology has improved the accessibility of photography.
There has been some speculation and debate on what the word "photographer" means, it's by no means a new discussion.
This no-true-Scotsman approach to photography is quite prevalent. However, the distinction of who is or is not a photographer is clear, but useless.
What Is A Photographer?
A Photographer is an individual who creates photographs.
It does not mean they are professionals
It does not mean they are artists
It does not mean they only use "proper" cameras or expensive equipment
An individual working in a studio with a plethora of lights and beautiful models is a photographer just as much as someone snapping a quick photo of a particularly delectable lunch for Instagram.
There is a tendency to attach unnecessary baggage to the word 'photographer.' The word is utilitarian, it has a simple description. While it may invoke particular ideas or stereotypes, that is not how it should be defined. I understand that there is a sense of pride to stand up and declare "I am a Photographer!" That should be from the knowledge of the time and effort you have put into your own creations, not because the title has any exclusive meaning.
Note how Anthony and Ken both have to describe elements of the quality of the photographer, not whether an individual is a photographer. When one is described as a photographer, you can assume they create photographs- no more, no less.
Besides, why continue the debate of whether this person or that is a "real" photographer when you could just be out shooting and focusing on your own work?


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We provide a variety of co-curricular courses, competitions, and events aimed at providing high potential, socially-minded graduate students across the University with the support, skills, and experiences to pursue their goals.
- Skoll Scholarship – up to five fully-funded MBA scholarships awarded to social entrepreneurs each year.
- Map the System – a global competition that asks participants to examine the complexity of a problem they wish to solve
- Awards and grants - funding and recognition of the impact work achieved by our students and alumni
- Social impact programmes for students – learn more about our Social Impact Lab and our leadership development opportunities for students of Oxford
Find out more about the programmes open to you as a student:


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Answer of the DayMORE >>
A: Going to HK would be the best bet I reckon, especially if you were loo
A:Going to HK would be the best bet I reckon, especially if you were looking for a church wedding. Chinese weddings are pretty grim IMO - you go to a barren govt dept with souless officials and navigate red tape so some guy can give you a red stamp and a marriage book. You get expensive pictures taken of you both posing in places you'd never go to in everyday life that is somehow supposed to represent your wedding, then a while later it's off to a restaurant where a game show host kind of guy makes sure it's as tacky as possible while the guests eat as fast as they can so they can leave as soon as they finish eating and gave you money. Hell, I'd go to Thailand or the Philippines and get married in Paradise. -- Stiggs
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Experience an unforgettable blend of historic charm and modern thrills.
Williamsburg's wide selection of malls, boutiques, restaurants, spas, golf courses and historical sites and attractions offer a variety of ways to enjoy your vacation at your own pace.
Botanical gardens
Visit more than 30 beautiful and exotic-themed gardens at the nationally recognized Norfolk Botanical Garden.
Historical sights
Experience pre-Revolutionary War America at Jamestown Settlement, where costumed historical interpreters describe and demonstrate daily life in the early 17th century. At Yorktown, visit colonial dwellings that stood during the siege of 1781, when Washington won the Battle of Yorktown to secure our nation's independence.
Science & space centers
Visit the maritime-themed science center, Nauticus, to experience hands-on exhibits, interactive theaters, aquariums, digital high-definition films and more. Discover the Virginia Air & Space Center's historic aircraft, including the Apollo 12 command module that went to the moon.
Shop for brand-name values at the Prime Outlets at Williamsburg, or peruse more than 70,000 items at the 200-acre Williamsburg Pottery.
Theme parks
Spend a fun-filled day at area theme parks, including the world-class Busch Gardens Williamsburg and the thrilling water rides and attractions of Water Country USA.
Wine tasting
Enjoy a wine-tasting tour any time of year at The Williamsburg Winery and receive a monogrammed glass as a souvenir.
Owner favorites
- Walk through time at Colonial Williamsburg
- Visit the Jamestown Settlement
- Discover golf at Ford's Colony
- Spend a day at the theme parks
- Relive the colonial experience at Yorktown
- Shop for treasures of colonial times
- Stroll the campus of the College of William &Mary


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Parks, Recreation & Forestry > Recreation > League Info
League Info
City of West Bend Parks, Recreation & Forestry Department offers various seasonal adult and youth leagues. Click on the links below to get information, schedules, scores and standings for each league.
- Adult Volleyball Leagues (Winter/Spring)
- High School Basketball League 3 on 3 (Winter)
- Youth Softball League (Summer)


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"No" Is No Longer an Option/
When it comes to living out my dreams, "no" is no longer an option. When it comes to asking for what I desire, "no" to myself is no longer an option. When it comes to giving myself permission to fail, "no" is no longer an option. When it comes believing in myself, "no" is no longer an option.
For a long time, saying "no" was the default. It was my answer to everything. To having fun. To playing. To being imperfect. To failing. To trying new things. To being uncomfortable. To doing what I wanted. To asking for what I needed. To being myself. To saying what I needed to say.
Then someone pointed it out to me, point blank in the face: "you say no before you say yes". It was poignant – and it hit me straight in the gut. I was guilty as hell.
I started to become aware of my self-talk, painfully aware. I started noticing all the places where I said "no" to myself – and it was everywhere. I observed myself wanting to say something in a conversation and shutting myself up with "I cannot say that". I noticed how thoughts and ideas come up in my mind, and I smother them with all the reasons why they will fail. Little things, such as a new project at work or doing something with a friend. I noticed how quickly and easily I say "no" before I say "yes" – to myself.
I have always been my toughest judge and critic, and I held myself against the highest standards – perfection. I wanted needed to be perfect and to do perfect. In the eyes of society. In the eyes of my parents. In the eyes of my peers and lovers. Perfection required discipline: denying my true desires and acting in a way that would get me approval. It required curating my every word to make sure I came off smart, polished, polite and perfect. I ran everything I did and said through a filter. And it sapped me of all my energy.
"The longer you stay in a place that's not totally in line with your desire, the more expensive it becomes."
~ wise words from a friend
In effect, in denying ourselves and our true desires, we affirm our own death. The death of who we genuinely are and the gifts of what we bring to the world. In self-denial, we discard who we are for the sake of who we should be.
And I found the cost too high to bear. I had lived my life in total self-denial. Denial of who I am and all the things that make me unique – my thoughts, ideas, quirks and imperfections. By worrying so much about how I came across to others, I had run dry. Dry on energy to do what I love. Dry on relating with others and true intimacy. Dry on wanting to live.
So I am running an experiment on my life – a completely different way of living than I know how. A life-affirming way that celebrates who I am.
I am choosing to live from a place of "yes". I am choosing to live from desire and approval of who I am and what I have to contribute. I am choosing to live in acceptance of whatever comes up for me – a thought, desire or intention – without curation or filtering. I am choosing to experiment with how life would be different if I let myself be who I am, raw and unfiltered.
I am choosing to affirm my life. So how will it be for me to live from a place of "yes"? How will the world respond if I show up fully as myself?If you'd like to experiment with me, start by noticing when you say "no" to yourself. Notice when you don't give yourself permission to desire or want or ask for what you need. And ask yourself, what is the cost?


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Multipurpose Room
One of the many challenges in life is balancing work and home. This becomes even more difficult if you actually work from home because you're not able to disconnect and unwind.
The secret to creating an environment that actually feels like a haven, whether it is used for work or hobbies, is to incorporate furniture that is stylish, keeps your space organized, and reflects your decorating style.
The concept behind this makeover was to create the look of a custom built-in work station for the family. The two desks resemble console tables and the tower in the center adds organization and hidden storage.
This is an area where all ages can be productive, whether it is on a laptop or doing homework. It becomes a multi-functional space because the upholstered desk chairs can also be used as additional seating in the center of the room to complete the furniture grouping.
Other tips to avoid visual clutter on the desks are to use baskets or bins with lids to store smaller items. Each bin or decorative box can be labeled, so you know exactly what is in there at a glance. Finally, a great way to personalize the space is to add family photos. Simple display ledges can be used above the desks to create a gallery wall. The best part is you can rotate the frames whenever you want.


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While records in other materials date back to the late 1800s, in 1931 RCA Victor became the first company to release a vinyl record. The technology was developed further by Columbia Records and led to the release of the 12-inch, long-play album in 1948.
The vinyl records produced by RCA Victor did not fare well because of economic strife due to the Great Depression and the absence of affordable playback devices. Columbia Records focused not only on creating a better vinyl record but a more affordable system for playback. RCA Victor was the first to introduce the 45 rpm vinyl record in an effort to compete with Columbia Records' new albums.


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Monekosso, Dorothy and Remagnino, Paolo (2010) Behavior Analysis for Assisted Living. IEEE Transactions on Automation Science and Engineering, 7 (4). pp. 879-886. [Journal article]
Full text not available from this repository.
|Item Type:
|Journal article
|Faculties and Schools:
|Faculty of Computing & Engineering
Faculty of Computing & Engineering > School of Computing and Mathematics
|Research Institutes and Groups:
|Computer Science Research Institute > Smart Environments
Computer Science Research Institute
|ID Code:
|Deposited By:
|Dr Dorothy Monekosso
|Deposited On:
|02 Nov 2010 12:02
|Last Modified:
|14 Mar 2013 09:35
Repository Staff Only: item control page


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Baxter of California Soap is made in Winooski, Vermont
Baxter of California bars of soap are made by a local company Twincraft Skincare in Winooski, VT. Twincraft is a privately held company that was started in 1972 by twin brothers Bob and Dave Asch. Today it continues to run by Pete and Richard Asch (sons of Bob Asch). They produce over 110,000,000 bars of specialty soap each year. They use GMP, FDA (OTC), RSPO (Rountable for Sustainable Palm Oil) and certified organic compliance.
It makes us proud to offer a great Baxter of California product that is made in Vermont.
Stop into Myles Court Barbershop in Montpelier, VT and check out the line of Baxter of California products. We're the only store in Vermont to carry Baxter of California.


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What is the Esus board ?
The Esus Board is an Arduino compatible Wireless programming board with ESP8266 microcontroller, motors drivers and analog/digital converter.
"Excellent board for Internet of Things (IoT) and Robotics projects"
Esus board technical specification :
- NodeMcu Esp8266 esp-12 microcontroller 80 Mhz
- WIFI communication,
- 2 full H-Bridge,
- 1A per bridge,
- 6 analogue inputs for sensors (8 bits),
- 2 logics inputs,
- 6 logic input/output
- SPI, I2C and serial communication,
- 5V and 0V header
- Two LEDs
- On/off switch.
- Step-up/step-down regulator
- Designed to run on a 2.8 to11.8 V,
- Designed to run with lipo battery : 3.7V, 7.4V or 11.1V or AA batteries
- Dimensions :80x 50mm
What can I do with Esus Board ?
The Esus Board is designed to support : motors, infrared, light, temperature sensors or interrupter switch.
- Make you mobile robot with 2 motors and switch sensors.
- Make you mobile robot controled by Wifi
- IoT project
- And much more...
- Control Dc motors
- Control servomotor
- Connect infrared sensors, interrupter, buzzer, switch, ...
- LiPo or NIMH battery
Esus & Raspberry Pi board communication :
- Serial communication between Raspberry Pi and Esus board
- Powering your Raspberry from a lipo battery with Esus board
How do I program the Esus board ?
"The Esus Board is very Easy to program it !""
You just need the Arduino IDE software and a micro usb cable.
Use Blockly with Esus Board :
Create app and control the real word :
Design and program your own apps for control real word with Esus Board.
EsusBot :
The EsusBot is vers simple robot with :
- 1 x Esus board
- 2 x geared DC motors and bracket
- 2 x wheels
- 1 x ball-caster
- Connecting wires
- Wood base (laser cutting)
EsusBot ''Prototype'' :
EsusRover :
The EsusRover is a mobile robot with :
- 1 x Esus board
- 4 x geared DC motors and bracket
- 4 x wheels
- Connecting wires
- Wood base (laser cutting)
EsusRover ''Prototype'' :
Documentation & sources
Open source libraries :
Who are Mace Robotics ?
- Mace Nicolas (Hardware and software design)
- Website : www.macerobotics.com
Where are Esus boards made and designed ?
- Design : France
- Assembled : France
Examples Project :
Risks and challenges
The Esus board prototype has already been been assembled and tested.
I have chosen electronics components that are available in large quantities from reputable distributors and I have developed other boards with the same manufacturer.
Funding period
- (15 days)


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Hello, and welcome! I guess I'll start off by telling you a little bit about myself. Chances are if you've found this blog, you probably know that I am a pineapple-loving, city-exploring, bike riding gal- but I'm here to delve into why.
Growing up in Delray Beach, Florida has shaped who I am more than almost anything else in this world. A quaint, beachside town filled with local art, music, and culture, this town kick started my passion for places- whether big or small.
Kim and Pete, or my wonderful parents as most know them, are also a huge reason why I do what I do- which as of right now is study Information Technology & Urban Planning. My mom started her career as a computer science engineer, my dad in large construction development. Throughout my life, they have invigorated our city through historic preservation, development, and actively building our community alongside other local residents.
What to Expect
As I mentioned above, exploring places is a passion of mine. With that said, I truly believe every place has something beautiful and unique to offer. The title of this blog, "Urbanist Hacks", illustrates my wish to inspire you to make the most of wherever you may be (and is sort of a play on my two passions- technology and urbanism).
Like many dreamers, I have a mission to make a positive impact on our world in my limited time here. This blog will explore the ways I believe we can all make small changes for the greater good of our cities and world and simultaneously make the most of each and every day we have on this beautiful planet.
Thanks for reading! I look forward to sharing more travels, stories, knowledge, and love with you all 🙂


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|"Realty Bites"
|The Simpsons episode
|Episode no.
|Season 9
Episode 9
|Directed by
|Swinton O. Scott III
|Written by
|Dan Greaney
|Production code
|Original air date
|December 7, 1997
|Guest appearance(s)
|Episode features
|Chalkboard gag
|"There was no Roman god named "Fartacus"".[1]
|Couch gag
|A live-action hand spins the family around like spin art.[2]
|Mike Scully
Dan Greaney
Richard Appel
Swinton O. Scott III
"Realty Bites" is the ninth episode of The Simpsons' ninth season. It originally aired on the Fox network in the United States on December 7, 1997.[1] The episode sees Marge becoming a real estate agent, while Homer enjoys Snake's car. It was written by Dan Greaney and directed by Swinton O. Scott III.[1]
This episode has the final speaking appearance of Lionel Hutz, five months before the death of Phil Hartman. The episode's development grew out of a desire by the writers to do a show focused on Marge, where her job did not work out. The episode received positive mention in the book I Can't Believe It's a Bigger and Better Updated Unofficial Simpsons Guide, and is featured in the special 2003 DVD release The Simpsons: Risky Business.
Homer drags Marge to a police seized-property auction. While there, he buys Snake's car, the Li'l Bandit. Upon seeing this, Snake vows to kill Homer. After the auction, Marge encounters Lionel Hutz, who has become a realtor. Marge decides to try the job for herself and begins to work for Hutz at Red Blazer Realty. She tells prospective buyers her honest opinion about the houses she shows them.
Due to her honesty, Marge does not sell any homes. Hutz informs her to use more positive descriptions when selling the houses, and also informs Marge if she does not sell a house in the first week, she will be fired. Marge tries to bend the truth, but fails as she just cannot lie to others. Marge does not disclose the entire truth of the house she sells to Ned Flanders and his family, which had been the site of a multiple homicide. The Flanders purchase the house and bid farewell to the Simpsons.
Meanwhile, Snake escapes from the prison and jumps into the Li'l Bandit to retrieve the car from Homer. They start fighting each other to gain control of the moving car, and Chief Wiggum starts chasing them.
Feeling guilty about her deception and concerned for the Flanders' safety, Marge goes to check on them at their new house. There, she tells them the truth about the murders, but they are not annoyed. Ned and Maude are pleased to be a part of Springfield's history, and refuse Marge's offer of returning the deposit. Unfortunately, the house is destroyed seconds later when Li'l Bandit and Wiggum's police car crash through the house. Marge returns Flanders' down payment. Hutz, annoyed at the damage costs and especially by the return of the money, fires Marge (giving her a Red Blazer embroidered with this information). At the end of the episode, Homer takes Marge to the government unemployment office to collect a welfare check.
The writers wanted to do a "Marge episode", but one where her job does not work out, unlike previous episodes.[3] The episode marks the first appearance of Gil Gunderson, voiced by Dan Castellaneta, and Cookie Kwan, voiced by Tress MacNeille. Excuses were made by the writers to bring back Gil in future episodes based on Castellaneta's performance at the table read, which proved popular with the staff.[3] Snake's prison number is 7F20, the production code of "The War of the Simpsons", the episode in which he first appeared.[3]
The piano wire scene was meant to end with Kirk's sandwich being sliced just the way he wanted, until George Meyer suggested that his arm be cut off instead. Mike Scully described the ensuing laughter at his suggestion as the most intense he had ever heard from the staff, saying: "They were literally choking because the joke was so unexpected. It was a shocked kind of laugh, and it just started rolling, one of those laughs that build the more they reverberate through you."[4] In the unemployment line, the unemployment recipient with the bucket hat and the beard is a caricature of George Meyer.[5] Due to Phil Hartman's death, the recurring characters of Lionel Hutz and Troy McClure were retired.[6] As such, this episode is the last speaking appearance of Hutz, with him only being featured as a background character in some future episodes.[5] McClure's final appearance would be in "Bart the Mother", the third episode of season ten.[6]
The title of the episode is an allusion to the 1994 movie Reality Bites.[7] Gil Gunderson is based on Jack Lemmon's portrayal of Shelley Levene in the 1992 film Glengarry Glen Ross.[3]
When Homer drives by Snake for the first time in the convertible he sings, "My name is Luka, and I live on the second floor." The lyrics are from the hit song Luka by Suzanne Vega.
At one point in the episode, Snake sets up a wire across a road to decapitate Homer as he drives by. The wire is supplied by "Acme", after the brand of equipment used by Wile E. Coyote to try and stop Road Runner in the Looney Tunes cartoons.[3]
When Ned Flanders explains to Marge that they were painting Todd's room red, Todd starts saying "Red room, red room" and moves his finger, like the character of Danny does in the film The Shining.[2]
When Lionel Hutz reads the list of wrecked items to Marge, it is a tribute to the Lethal Weapon movies.[3]
The newspaper front page reporting the "Jealous Jockey Murders" carries the statement "Mrs. Astor safe" beneath the headline. This is a reference to the front page of The New York Times on April 15, 1912, reporting the sinking of the RMS Titanic three days earlier whilst assuring that "Ismay safe, Mrs. Astor maybe".[8]
In its original broadcast, "Realty Bites" finished 21st in ratings for the week of December 1–7, 1997, with a Nielsen rating of 10.8, equivalent to approximately 10.6 million viewing households. It was the third-highest-rated show on the Fox network that week, following The X-Files and King of the Hill.[9]
The authors of the book I Can't Believe It's a Bigger and Better Updated Unofficial Simpsons Guide said, "A simple but enjoyable romp, with the final few minutes in the Murder House particularly funny. Best thing though is the introduction of the hapless Gil, destined to always be a ray of light in any episode!"[2] The episode is featured in a special 2003 DVD compilation called The Simpsons: Risky Business, along with "Marge Gets a Job", "Deep Space Homer", and "Homer the Smithers".[10]
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Hi everybody, welcome back on EMDutch. As promised I am working on "diuretics in AHF" right now. To be honest, it doesn't seem to be the cornerstone of treatment in my mind, but that will be discussed in my next post. Because these CAT's ("critical approved topics") take a lot of time I thought it would nice to present a case for you today!
Every doctor in his career will encounter patients he or she will never forget. Sometimes because of their appearance, attitude or disease, but in this case it was the outcome……DEAD! And off course we often see people die in the ED. And off course you kind of get used to it. And off course it's part of the job. But when an otherwise healthy men, 50 years of age, dies a couple of hours after you have seen him it tends to stick! Getting interested??? Just read the case below. Hopefully you will learn something from it and otherwise you can always e-mail/tweet/post me what a bad job I did! Please don't scroll to the end, but test yourself and try to find what I missed, while reading the case!
So this 50 year old men was seen by one of my colleagues in the ED with acute onset of chest pain without radiation. He has hypertension in his medical history and had no prior episode of chest pain. He was hemodynamically stable. His ECG showed minimal ST-elevation in V2-V3 and an inverted T-wave in III and aVF. On the chest X-ray a slightly widened mediastinum was found which was explained by the technique of the photo. The cardiac enzymes were negative and he was admitted for chest pain with low molecule heparin and ASA.
The ergometric stress test showed no ischemic response and ultrasound of the heart showed a slighty widened aorta ascendens (44mm) and a bicuspid aorta valve. He developed abdominal pain with fever and an elevated WBC and CRP and was transferred to internal medicine. The abdominal ultrasound performed showed no pathology.
On the 3rd day he got a second episode of severe chest pain, which was almost gone when I came to take a look at the patient. I was in my first year and did my rotations in cardiology. Like with every chest pain patient in the house I was called to take a look at the patient. He looked fine and was hemodynamically stable. There were new changes on the EKG this time (see below). And because I was in Emergency Medicine I knew Amal Mattu (really, who doesn't???)….and when you know him, you know EKG's…and in this case pericarditis. The EKG showed ST-elevations in multiple leads, so I asked myself the 3 questions to differentiate between pericarditis and MI:
1.) Is there any ST-depression (beyond aVR & V1) No (we can debate about lead III & aVF, but it was exactly the same as in the 1st EKG.)
2.) Is there ST-elevation covex upwards or horizontal No
3.) ST-elevation III>II No
SR, 65/min, 1st degree AV-block, concave ST elevation I, aVL, V2-V5, inverted T wave III, aVF and aVR
He got NSAID's next to the antibiotics he already was given and his symptoms disappeared. But….In the 5th night the patient suddenly died.
So what did I miss? I had no idea! Was it a MI after all, was it a PE….or was it something else??? Well, it was something else! Autopsy showed an aortic dissection type A with massive hemopericardium.
So where did I go wrong and what were the clues I missed? In retrospect there were 3 (and if you more, please let me know!):
1.) 1 diagnosis is just 1 diagnosis, but maybe not the whole diagnosis. Pericarditis may present as a sudden sharp pain, but other causes like MI, PE, GERD and dissection has to be in your mind. It wasn't in mine. I stopped at the 1st diagnosis! Boy, did I learn my lesson!
2.) In 1987 Saner He, et al (1) already describes 5 cases in which pericarditis was the 1st sign of aortic dissection (type A). The hypothesis is that slow pentration of blood into the pericardial space causes inflammation. It's striking that 2 of these cases had a bicuspid aortic valve, just like our patient. Even before 1987 Edwards (in 1978) already describes the relation between dissection and bicuspid valve (2) In my defence….at the time I had no knowledge of this and it's sad to figure this out when it's too late for the patient.
3.) This patient had chest- and abdominal pain. So he had pain above and below the diaphragma. Like somebody recently told me (I know…too little too late!)….think dissection ! One article showed that in dissection 67% has chest pain, 84% had sudden onset of any pain and 23% had abdominal pain (and 64% has a history of hypertension !!!) (3)
In conclusion:
An aortic dissection is a difficult diagnosis to make. That's why it is important to know it can initially present as a pericarditis. There is often a 'therapeutic window of treatment', which means you have time on your side to get to the correct diagnosis in time.
This case doesn't justify a CT with every patient presenting in the ED with a pericarditis, but in retrospect our patients had some signs which could have led to the correct diagnosis. He had a widened mediastinum and a bicuspid aortic valve which is a known risk factor for aortic dissection. Futhermore he has chest- and abdominal pain !
Ok….hopefully you have enjoyed reading this case and remember….aortic dissection is 'the great masquerader' and you will miss some in your carreer, but maybe this can help you to find more aortic dissections in your carreer! Good luck!
Until next time !
Egon Zwets
Chest. 1987 Jan;91(1):71-4.
Aortic dissection presenting as pericarditis.
Saner HE, Gobel FL, Nicoloff DM, Edwards JE.
Circulation. 1978 May;57(5):1022-5.
Dissecting aortic aneurysm associated with congenital bicuspid aortic valve.
Edwards WD, Leaf DS, Edwards JE.
JAMA. 2002 May 1;287(17):2262-72.
Does this patient have an acute thoracic aortic dissection?
Klompas M.


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alhoceima once again mentioned a module he liked to see ported, so here we go. =] It was originally written by Dvlpr as far as I can see.
This module prevents people who just joined a channel from speaking for a set amount of seconds. It works with a new channel mode: +J <seconds>, for which you need to be chanop or higher to set. Furthermore, opers, U:Lines and anyone with any list mode (one or more of +vhoaq) will be able to talk right away. U:Lines are exempt since some services may join a channel, do something and part. =]
Grab it here.
[DONE] Channel mode to mute people for X seconds after joining
Need a module converted from 3.2.x to UnrealIRCd 4? Or looking for a certain module? Ask here.
Moderators: Gottem, Supporters
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[DONE] Channel mode to mute people for X seconds after joining
If you like my modules, pls consider donating (through PayPal) or becoming a monthly Patron ;];]
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You may have recently heard about the invaluable work of our friends at Vera in the Washington Post, The New Yorker or on John Oliver Tonight as they are at the forefront of making justice systems more fair and effective through research and innovation.
We designed their blog, Current Thinking to be a forum for their ideas, opinions, and strategies on justice policy and practice. Using VERA's topics of interest as both a table of contents and a means of cross-referencing blog posts, we designed a blog that gives them a quick and self-sufficient way of syndicating their voice far and wide.
The user-interface was redesigned to give the blog a coherent brand identity working within VERA's existing guidelines. Blog post comments were designed to encourage dialog around posts while Mollum was deployed to facilitate comments administration. Learn More about VERA's Current Thinking.
skills deployed: discovery, information architecture, copywriting, UX design, UI design, database architecture, Drupal, HTML, CSS, SOLR, administrator training, ongoing support


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I once told a good friend about these strange reptiles, and so far I haven't managed to find the educational poster they used to sell in town showing all the snakes around the traps that will kill you (you have to love living in a country where you can pretty much sum up the wildlife as "kill you, kill you, kill you, won't kill you but will make you wish you were dead, kill you, kill you."
They can't hurt you, and they have these really cool tails. The tail is twice as long as the body, and have "fracture planes". Fracture planes are weaknesses in the tail that allow it to break off in one of many different spots. If a predator grabs the lizard's tail, the body of the lizard, which contains all the vital organs, may escape while the tail wiggles wildly. In time, the lizard will regenerate a new tail.
They eat spiders and grasshoppers and other things like that.
So, here is a picture of the odd creature known as a legless lizard. It's a lizard, with no legs, or at least very little legs. So little in fact, the word little should be said like "widdle".
Behold the wonder of the lizard with no legs!


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The Right Way To Fill A Divot...
In order to create the best playing conditions for you and your fellow players we ask for your help in replacing and filling your divots.
Divots are a natural occurrence on the course and the sooner they are filled the more quickly perfect playing conditions are restored. You will find divot mix on tee boxes that necessitate frequent use of irons and attached to the sides of your golf cart at Apple Mountain. This divot mix is designed to be used as necessary throughout your round. Please take care to avoid using divot mix boxes for waste and cigarette butts; garbage receptacles are available throughout your round.
When it comes to the replacement and filling of divots preference is always given to replacing any solid turf. Any turf you can replace will improve healing – if it holds together, put it back and apply mix around it as necessary. A properly filled divot should be filled so that the mix is smooth and just below the surface of the surrounding turf. An overfilled divot is bad for mowing equipment and is wasteful of soil and seed.
Thank you for your help in ensuring the best course conditions possible!


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While girls are often applauded for pursuing math and science, playing traditional male sports and dressing in typical boy attire, boys who deviate from the historically "masculine" conventions often face a much different reaction.
Although all gender stereotypes are becoming less rigid, girls are given more flexibility than boys. That concerns me, especially when it comes to developing the typically "feminine" traits of compassion and kindness. These qualities are critical to the healthy development of all our children. Below are ways to assure that your boys receive those essential lessons in empathy as they grow toward being caring, compassionate, charitable men.
-Jenny Friedman, Executive Director
Make a Difference...
Label and talk about feelings. Acknowledging your son's feelings will enable him to better recognize and deal with his own strong emotions, and have a deeper understanding of others. To find "emotion coaching" tools, visit our Feelings 101 project page.
Redefine courage. Remind your son that it can take courage to be vulnerable, kind and compassionate. In fact, research suggests that when adolescents are more empathetic, they are more likely to act bravely – like protecting others in the face of bullying. Isn't this the kind of courage we want our children to have?
Find giving projects that fit your boy's interests. If volunteer projects like decorating cards or friendly visiting don't appeal to your son, rethink your approach. Have a sports fan? How about collecting sports equipment for low-income communities or getting involved in a kid's charity fun run? If your son loves to build, create nest boxes to donate to a local bird-rescue facility. Or turn your son's love of Legos into a creative, meaningful giving project.
Emphasize empathy. Do "180s" with your son – often. Talk about how it might feel to be the child who is being bullied, the person on the corner with a sign asking for money, or a substitute teacher who is being harassed by students. The more he can practice putting himself in someone else's position and see the world from different points of view, the more his compassion and empathy will grow.
Expose your son to the right kind of heroes. Introduce him to philanthropists, sports figures that give back to the community, and political and religious leaders that stand for peace and justice. These might be men you know personally or those you meet through reading and storytelling.
Talk About It.....
We know that reading fiction breeds empathy, yet we read more often to our girls than to our boys. So make time for reading, then enhance the empathy-developing Dad reading to son component by asking these questions.
- How did the character feel? Have you ever felt that way? How would you feel if [the situation] happened to you?
- What do you think of how the character reacted? Do you think you would have reacted that way? Why or why not?
- What would have made the character feel better.
Learn About It.....
For many more tips for raising eco-conscious kids, check out these two books:
Tough Boris - This delightful book by Mem Fox offers a simple but wonderfully engaging story that illustrates how toughness and tenderness can coexist.
"I want my boys to have an understanding of people's emotions, their insecurities, people's distress, and their hopes and dreams."
– Diana, Princess of Wales


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We are a team of spirited individuals, working towards striking the perfect balance between technology, learning and change. Our aim is to make quality learning accessible and affordable to people from all walks of life. Utter gives learners access to a fun learning environment that aims at building confidence and giving people the opportunity to not only grow in their careers, but their personal lives as well. We believe in providing personable learning experiences that will ultimately result in growth, development and positivity.
Amit Bhadbhade, Co-founder
Amit pursued B.E Civil engineering from the University of Mumbai and holds a Master's degree in IT and Data computing from the University of Lancaster, U.K. He comes with 9 years of work experience, and has worked extensively in various areas of mobile technology and EdTech with IL&FS Education. Amit's primary focus is solution architecture and overall product development.
Ninad Vengurlekar, Co-founder
Ninad comes with rich corporate work experience of 20 years, 14 of which he spent in Ed-Tech. He has headed verticals such as Retail Education, New Media and Content Development and has even successfully managed the creation of over 1500 hours of skills content and 2500 hours of school content. He holds an MBA in Advertising from Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies (NMIMS) and a Masters in EdTech from the prestigious Harvard University.
Some of the past successful initiatives and projects led by the co-founders:
- English Seekho and Sparsh - The world's first English language and Sex Education programs on feature phones. Used by over 3 millions subscribers.
- Xperica on iPad - Ranked as the Top 5 Education Apps on App store
- K-Class Science Channel - A YouTube channel of 3 minute science experiment videos with over 4.2 million views


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National and International Partnerships
We have partnered with several National and International Institutions to serve your needs with the strongest Products and Partners in the market.
Airtel Kenya Limited
Swiss Kenko Company Ltd partnered with airtel Kenya Ltd to cover the need of quality mobile communication services to affordable prices. Airtel Kenya Limited is a professional, reliable and innovative partner. We signed an Enterprise Partner Contract with airtel to deliver airtel products in Western and Eastern Kenya.
CCK – Communication Commission of Kenya
Swiss Kenko Company Ltd has applied for a License from CCK for ASP Application Service Providing. CCK Certifies Swisskenko as a professional and valid partner for ASP in the fields CRM, ERP, FLEET and HEALTH.
Trunz Water Systems AG
To serve the Kenyan Community with Hightech Water Solutions, we have partnered with Trunz Water Systems AG, a Swiss High Tech Company.
As an official Dealer we serve Western Kenya with Solar and Wind driven Drinking Water Solutions.
AI-ONE inc.
Zürich (Switzerland), La Jolla (USA), Berlin (Germany)
BW2 Technologies AG, Lachen (Switzerland)
Swiss Kenko Company Ltd signed in August 2011 a solution provider contract with BW2 Technologies AG in Switzerland.
HP – Server, Desktop, Notebook and Peripheries Products
To serve our Customers with a complete solution (Software, Hardware and Service), we partnered with HP. Swisskenko is a official HP Distributor in Kenya.
Alt-n Technologies
Swiss Kenko Company Ltd has Partnered with Alt-N Technologies to provide the Kenyan Market with Hightech Windows-based email, email security, Outlook collaboration, and network fax management products for small-to-medium businesses.
We are the official dealers in Rift Valley
CFC Stanbic Bank
Swiss Kenko Company Ltd is recommended GPS Tracking Partner for CFC Stanbic Bank. Attached, you will find the recommendation letter from CFC Stanbic Bank.
NIC Bank
Swiss Kenko Company Ltd is recommended GPS Tracking Partner for NIC Bank. Attached, you will find the recommendation letter from NIC Bank.
Ministry of Water and Irrigation
Swiss Kenko Company Ltd partnered with the Ministry of Water & Irrigation to assist Kenya to succeed in Vision 2030 and supply Kenyans with clean water also in rural areas.
Attached you find the Water Constructor Licence for Swiss Kenko Company Ltd.
Ministry of Agriculture - Kenya
Swiss Kenko Company Ltd partnered with the Ministry of Agriculture to get the Knowledge used at the moment in Kenya on Board.


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I've written about this before (pre-Saturn Return, in 2009): I'm a Pisces, blah blah, we are sensitive and easily led astray. Now I've matured a bit- I'll be 35 on Sunday..OMG! Is 35 too old to say "OMG"? Now that I've reached my ripe soon to-be-middle age, I know that this fish DOES have a… Continue reading The gullible Empath
The gullible Empath


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I prefer painting large-scale canvas pieces, so murals are right up my alley. It's fun collaborating with companies or organizations to help bring beauty to their space. I collaborate with a client from conception to execution for the duration of the project. All projects are based on an hourly rate. For inquires please contact firstname.lastname@example.com.
Marvin B. Smith Elementary / Global Mural
I had the pleasure to partner with Marvin B. Smith Elementary School for their Global Initiative. The purpose of the mural is to enhance the new global perspective of the school. Upper-level elementary students were able to participate in the process by painting portions of the various flags. The mural spans the main foyer entrance, approximately 7 feet high and 36 feet wide.


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According to the United Nations, "International Women's Day is a time to reflect on progress made, to call for change and to celebrate acts of courage and determination by ordinary women who have played an extraordinary role in the history of their countries and communities."
Globally, International Women's Day (IWD) is a pretty big deal. Many countries observe the day with special traditions and celebrations, some even declaring it a national holiday.
However, in the US, observance of International Women's Day has been quite modest. While most consider the US fairly progressive in terms of women's rights and equality, the truth is gender equity is actually losing ground in the States, and there's more reason than ever for the US to recognize IWD and its mission.
Two Washington women are working to make IWD a much bigger deal in Seattle: in 2016, they convened a gathering of about 80 women; this year, International Women's Day Seattle has already outgrown one home, and the event is still a week away.
Team genneve is planning to attend (and volunteer, so look for us!), and we hope you'll join us. We're even more excited about the event after having the chance to sit down with organizers Kate Isler and Nickie Smith and talk about why International Women's Day is important and why the work of feminists and feminism isn't done.
Event details: Facebook event page
Date/Time: Wednesday, March 8, 4.30 – 9 PM
Location: Town Hall Seattle, 1119 8th Ave
Tickets: available from Eventbrite.


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Contemporary Lyrical technique strengthens the body and focuses on interpretation and musicality. Exercises include ballet and jazz positions, stretching, coordination movements, turns, jumps, and floor work. Freeing and joyful, the dance style takes its inspiration and moods directly from the music, bringing its roots and emotions into the choreographed movements.
Back to All Events
Earlier Event: December 18ADULT BALLET WITH VIKY SMITH
Later Event: December 20INTENSIVE SERIES - BARRE STRETCH, STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING WITH ANDREA LAMAINA


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Monday, November 7, 2016 – Issue #12
Happy Fill Our Staplers Day University Ridge!
We've decided to extend our game throughout the entire fall semester! Come to the Ridge Community Center and guess the number of pieces of candy in the jar. The closest guess not only wins all of the candy, but also a $50 gift card to Walmart!! Guesses are $1 each and all of the money is donated to The United Way. Guess as many times as you want!
All emergency information related to University Ridge and Ridge students will be sent to students via text message. Texts could range from issues related to weather, power outages, natural disasters, or other emergency situations. However, to receive this extremely important information, you must sign up. If you do not sign up, you will not receive this crucial information in a timely manner. In order to receive these texts and make sure that you are getting all important info, you must text @dh7eh to 81010. Messaging rates apply. We also use this service to alert students to upcoming program opportunities and Ridge Community Council Meetings. Sign up today!
Every Wednesday at 9pm, we will be having a program for all Ridge residents in the Ridge community center! Here is the info on our next round of "WHAT'S UP WEDNESDAY" programming!
Wednesday, November 9th @9pm in the community center
Wednesday, November 16th @9pm in the community center
Monday, November 7th @9pm in the community center
A close look at one person's journey through live as transgender. Plus, we will be raffling off a $50 dollar gift card!
Tuesday, November 15th @9pm in the community center
How much does the Ridge pay for electricity? Garbage? Internet? Find out how to reduce costs not only at the Ridge, but also when you have your own place off campus! Plus, we will be raffling off a $50 dollar gift card!
Through most of October, the Ridge was running an important survey to get as much feedback from students who are living at the Ridge as possible. The information that was gathered will be looked at and considered as we move forward and make changes at the Ridge. As an incentive, we would give two students, selected at random, a VISA gift card for $250…and we have the winners!!!
Jasmine Lewis and Alisha Rohrer! You are each $250 richer! Please come to the community center between 8am and 4pm Monday through Friday with your ID to collect your prize!
Unless you've been living under a rock for the past year and half, you know that in a few short days America will be voting for a new president! Students who live at University Ridge AND who used their Ridge apartment address when registering to vote should be voting at JTL Intermediate School. (Check your voter ID card for your exact polling place.) For your convenience, we have hired a shuttle (in addition to the regularly running shuttles) to transport students to their polling place.
On November 8th the voting shuttle will be running between noon and 7pm. It will make stops at the Ridge, across from the University Bookstore, JTL school, and the Salvation Army, which is another polling station for some ESU students. The shuttle is free to ESU students. If you have any questions about the shuttle, please stop in at the Ridge community center.


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studio / gallery / office / photo room drawing
Here's a drawing of the studio remodel we are working on. The back area will be my and Linda's shared office. It will have two six foot sliding doors. Planning to make them from translucent corrugated plastic and walnut. The barn door hardware is ordered from Tractor Supply. During my last remodel, I learned to use the barn door rail system with wheels made of rubber. The metal wheels in our closet at home sounds like a massive thunder storm every time we open the door.


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This is a big comeback post for the big break from me, not to mention another layout change (unfortunately the temporary previous one that lasted for less than two weeks failed to maintain interest with its overall busy-ness). So, I'm sure we're all gearing up for another big year which has got me excited for the upcoming gigs, festivals and albums in the making. This post is filled with a mixture of what I left out last year and new music to look out for this year, I guess a little transition to and fro to help kick off January and 2008.
Labels: Sandra


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Naturally Refreshing
Is it Spring yet? I'm afraid the worst of winter is yet to come so I'm arming myself with fresh limes and orange juice. When it snows in Atlanta, the entire city shuts down because we're just not equipped to handle it. But I'm always equipped to entertain! With just four simple, all natural ingredients, you can make the most delicious and refreshing margaritas ever. This margarita packs a tangy punch and best of all, you won't find any artificial sugary mixes in your glass. Just close your eyes and pretend you're basking in the glow of the summer sun outside on your patio. At least, that's how I plan to keep warm!
The Skinny on Skinny Cocktails
I never bought into the whole skinny cocktail thing. I mean, if I want a low calorie beverage, I'll just drink water. Alcohol comes from sugar so, unfortunately, the more kick in your cocktail, the higher the calories. Of course, there are a few ways to mitigate that. First of all, you could water it down. That doesn't sound good but if you use a naturally low calorie or calorie free liquid, like freshly squeezed lime juice, you are essentially accomplishing the same thing. Secondly, you could just add less alcohol to instantly zap the calorie content. Why do you think light beers have lower alcohol by volume? The reason there aren't many "light" wines on the market is that wines that are naturally lighter in calories already exist, like most dry sparkling wines. I guess that's why models in advertisements are often drinking Champagne! It's got fewer calories then most other wines. And finally, you could buy into the low calorie artificial sweetener cocktail mixes, but personally I'd rather just enjoy the real thing. After all, I would never dream of substituting anything less than decadent for real cheese or butter so why in the world would I mess with a perfectly good cocktail?
2 oz Freshly Squeezed Lime Juice
4 oz White Tequila
3-4 Tbs Agave Nectar
2 Tbs Orange Juice
- Combine all of the ingredients in a cocktail shaker and shake well over ice. Pour into your favorite salt-rimmed margarita glass and enjoy!
Suggested Pairings
Put away the corkscrew! These sweet and sour margaritas pair best with spicy Mexican foods and any one of my Guacamoles for all seasons.


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Presidential Transitions
Publication Date: February 2008
Publisher(s): Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Author(s): Stephanie Smith
Topic: Government (Central or federal government)
Government (Executive power)
Keywords: Transition budget; Pre-election planning; Presidential transition
Coverage: United States
Necessary funding for both the incoming and outgoing Administrations is authorized by the Presidential Transition Act, as amended.
The President's FY2009 budget requests $8,520,000 in funding for the upcoming presidential transition. Part I of this report discusses legislative actions to enhance the transition process, each transition since 1960, and general considerations for the presidential transition process. Part II contains the text of the major transition statutes. This report will be updated to reflect changes in benefits or funding.


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was called New Colossus, which reads,
Mother of Exiles. From her beacon-hand
Glows world-wide welcome; her mild eyes command
The air-bridged harbor that twin cities frame.
"Keep, ancient lands, your storied pomp!" cries she
With silent lips. "Give me your tired, your poor,
Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free,
The wretched refuse of your teeming shore.
Send these, the homeless, tempest-tossed to me,
I lift my lamp beside the golden door!"
Not like the brazen giant of Greek fame, With conquering limbs astride from land to land;
Here at our sea-washed, sunset gates shall stand
A mighty woman with a torch, whose flame
Is the imprisoned lightning, and her name
Here at our sea-washed, sunset gates shall stand
A mighty woman with a torch, whose flame
Is the imprisoned lightning, and her name
Mother of Exiles. From her beacon-hand
Glows world-wide welcome; her mild eyes command
The air-bridged harbor that twin cities frame.
"Keep, ancient lands, your storied pomp!" cries she
With silent lips. "Give me your tired, your poor,
Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free,
The wretched refuse of your teeming shore.
Send these, the homeless, tempest-tossed to me,
I lift my lamp beside the golden door!"
In 1903, these words were placed on a bronze plaque that sits outside the Statue of Liberty. "Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free…Send these, the homeless, tempest-tossed to me." Would you agree with that statement? Would agree with that statement when it was written in 1883 as a sign of welcome for the rejected and homeless seeking refuge? Would you agree with that statement today, with over 11 million illegal immigrants?
Immigration is confusing, complex and convoluted. The only thing that appears certain about immigration is that there is no certainty. The response to the issue is as diverse as our American landscape. Opinions shift depending on one's geography. From southern Florida to central California, the immigration issue has become particularly heated. Regardless of which side of the immigration fence one finds himself, it is clear that the system is not working. We all want change, but no one can agree on the change.
How are we as Christians supposed to respond? How should we engage in this debate? It is not my place to give my opinions on border policy and deportation and work permits, or the Dream Act. My concern as your pastor is that you look at this issue with biblical lenses. Does God have anything to say that should govern how we interact with the stranger and foreigner among us? I believe that God has a word for how he expects his people to engage in this debate. And I will say again my goal is not to give definite answers regarding this issue, but I hope that I will raise some questions on how we can be more faithful to Christ in our thinking and treatment of the stranger among us.
Circumcise the Heart
We must begin with our relationship with God. Our main allegiance is primarily to God and only secondarily to the United States of America. Deuteronomy 10:12-16
"And now, Israel, what does the LORD your God require of you, but to fear the LORD your God, to walk in all his ways, to love him, to serve the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul, and to keep the commandments and statutes of the LORD, which I am commanding you today for your good? Behold, to the LORD your God belong heaven and the heaven of heavens, the earth with all that is in it. Yet the LORD set his heart in love on your fathers and chose their offspring after them, you above all peoples, as you are this day. Circumcise therefore the foreskin of your heart, and be no longer stubborn.
God lays out a list of requirements for God's people in verse 12 and 13: fear the Lord, walk in his ways, love him, serve the Lord with all your heart and all your soul and keep his commandments. Many people when they encounter the Old Testament tend to think of it as one long lists of dos and don'ts, but this is a mistake. Notice the last three words of verse 13, "for your good." The commands and rules that God gives his people are for our good. They are to bless us and protect us.
And right after God gives his good rules to obey, he reminds his people of who is giving the commands. Verse 14, "Behold, to the Lord your God belong heaven and the heaven of heavens, the earth with all that is in it." Everything in the entire universe belongs to the Lord. There is no one above the Lord. He could have anything in the Lord and verse 15, "Yet the LORD set his heart in love on your fathers and chose their offspring after them, you above all peoples, as you are this day." The Lord set his heart in love on the people of Israel not because they were desirably, righteous, strong, numerous, but simply by his grace. Deut 7:6-7 says,
"For you are a people holy to the LORD your God. The LORD your God has chosen you to be a people for his treasured possession, out of all the peoples who are on the face of the earth. It was not because you were more in number than any other people that the LORD set his love on you and chose you, for you were the fewest of all peoples.
God chose Israel freely by his grace. Israel did not have to earn God's love, but only had to receive it.
God's undeserved, gracious love extended to an unworthy people is the foundation and the motivation for our response to him. It is only after the Lord reminds us of the free grace He has given us that he says, "Circumcise therefore the foreskin of your heart, and be no longer stubborn." God gave Israel circumcision as a sign that they were his covenant people, but outward circumcision was an external sign of an internal change. The Apostle Paul mentions this in Romans,
For no one is a Jew who is merely one outwardly, nor is circumcision outward and physical. But a Jew is one inwardly, and circumcision is a matter of the heart, by the Spirit, not by the letter. His praise is not from man but from God. (Romans 2:28-29)
The Jews were never to trust in their works, but to rest in God's grace and mercy. Their works shows their belief. A true Jew is one who has a circumcised heart, who gladly submits to the Lord. This is Old Testament language for repentance and faith. The only response of a true Jew to the unmerited love of the Lord is repentance and belief.
What does all this have to do with immigration? The Lord wants us to see how kind and gracious he has been to us when we did not deserve it. He wants us to work on our vertical relationship with Him before we can have the right horizontal relationship with our fellow man. We have to see His grace first. We need to see how He has loved us so profoundly when we did not deserve it. Like Israel, we were chosen by the unmerited favor of God.
For consider your calling, brothers: not many of you were wise according to worldly standards, not many were powerful, not many were of noble birth. But God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise; God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong; God chose what is low and despised in the world, even things that are not, to bring to nothing things that are, so that no human being might boast in the presence of God. And because of him you are in Christ Jesus, who became to us wisdom from God, righteousness and sanctification and redemption, so that, as it is written, "Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord." (1 Corinthians 1:26-31)
We have no reason to boast. We were sinners deserving of eternal hell for our sins, but God sent his Son, Jesus, to die in our place paying for the full penalty of our sin. And he rose on the third day as the firstborn among many brothers so that now if anyone would circumcise their heart in repentance and faith, God would welcome you as one of his people. It is all grace. It is all God's amazing grace.
Serve the Stranger
Caring for the immigrant is close to the heart of God. God delights to show special love to those who are oppressed and downtrodden. The powerful and awesome God loves to show his kindness to the least of these, Verse 17-19,
For the LORD your God is God of gods and Lord of lords, the great, the mighty, and the awesome God, who is not partial and takes no bribe. He executes justice for the fatherless and the widow, and loves the sojourner, giving him food and clothing. Love the sojourner (Deuteronomy 10:17-19)
Sojourner here is referring to the foreigner or traveler or stranger; someone who is not in their home land. The Lord delights to shower the least of these with his love. We have already seen how He has done this to his own people, why would He not do it to others?
The reason we must care for the immigrant is because it mirrors the heart of God. There are political ramifications when we think about immigration, but there are also missional ramifications. God has told us to love and serve the stranger. We are called to help those in need. Imagine I was with my three children at a park and one of my children slips off the playground equipment and twists his ankle. I am going to turn my eyes away from my other children and focus on the one who is hurting. My care for my hurt child in no way diminishes my love for my other two children, but one needs more special attention. God loves all, but pays special attention to those who need it the most: strangers, widows and orphans.
We have the opportunity to show the kindness and love of God to those who need it most. God does not qualify his love by only telling us to help a certain kind of sojourner. He simply says love. Our love shows we have a circumcised heart. As our love shows we believe, our lack of love may reveal we don't believe. Hear the words of Jesus speaking to those who do not love those in need,
Then he will say to those on his left, 'Depart from me, you cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. For I was hungry and you gave me no food, I was thirsty and you gave me no drink, I was a stranger and you did not welcome me, naked and you did not clothe me, sick and in prison and you did not visit me.' Then they also will answer, saying, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick or in prison, and did not minister to you?' Then he will answer them, saying, 'Truly, I say to you, as you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to me.' And these will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life. (Matthew 25:41-46)
Jesus believes our care for the stranger is so important that it reveals if we truly believe. I am not going to answer the how we can love the sojourner, but simply want to stress that we need to love the sojourner.
Strive for Justice
God cares about love, but he also cares about justice. It was very common for widows and orphans to be mistreated because they had no power. The powerless are those who need people to stand up for them and fight on their behalf (like we looked at last week with abortion). And yet, I believe we can extend this principle in striving for justice in the enforcement of our country laws. Ecclesiastes 8:11, "Because the sentence against an evil deed is not executed speedily, the heart of the children of man is fully set to do evil." (Ecclesiastes 8:11) When laws are not enforced, the people will be emboldened to continue to break the law.
The flesh of man will do what it is allowed to do. If the police allow a person to go 5 miles over the speed limit, they will travel 5 miles over the speed limit. If an employer is allowed to hire and pay workers under the table, then they probably will hire and pay workers under the table. Scripture is clear that as Christians we should obey the laws of the state. Paul writes in Romans 13:1, "Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God." Christians should submit to the governing authorities because God has placed those authorities over us. We know from 1 Peter 2:14 that God designed governments "to punish those who do evil and to praise those who do good."
We submit to the laws of the land because we believe in the sovereign hand of God. We trust that God has the power to set up kings and to remove them (Daniel 2:20). We believe that God has the power of kings and presidents. We should strive for laws that promote justice and peace and elect officials who strive to enforce those laws. Is it ok to break the law if you have a really good reason to break the law? If someone was starving would it be wrong from them to steal a loaf of bread? Yes it would be wrong for God says, "Thou shall not steal (Ex. 20:15). You may steal the bread and face the consequence for breaking the law, but having a good reason is never justification for breaking the law.
Beloved, there may be laws that are passed in our country that restrict pastors from preaching the gospel. Since I am bound to God's law first, I will choose to knowingly break that law and submit myself to the governing authorities. If I am fined, I pay the fine. Remember the goal of the Christian is to be faithful to Christ. We must trust him. When we circumcise our hearts we are called to no longer be stubborn. We no longer have the right to follow our own way, but to be faithful to Christ. As a church, we have to help each other think through how we can be faithful to Christ.
I remember reading of a church that had a member who was an illegal immigrant. He was lying to his employer of his status. The elders of the church met with the man and convinced him that he had to share his status with his employer because it was a sin to lie. God's children are called to walk in the truth. The man was hesitant because he was afraid he was going to lose his job. The man eventually confessed to his employer, lost his job and was deported. At first, the man was upset with the church for encouraging him to confess, but after several months in his home country he wrote back to the church thanking them for encouraging him to be faithful to Christ. He realized after being home that God wanted him in his home country to reach his family and friends with the gospel. Striving for justice is a matter of Christian discipleship.
Every situation may be different, but we are not in control of human history. God is sovereign. He is in control. He places his people exactly where they are supposed to be when they are supposed to be there. We are not all knowing. We see with human eyes, God sees for eternity. There are many things that do not appear fair from a human perspective, but God's justice is right and will be proven true in eternity. We do not have ability to say what is going to happen to people's lives if they are deported, or how our economy is going suffer or the impact that amnesty will have on our social security system. We can make logical assumptions based on the evidence, but ultimately only God knows. Yet we do know that God values justice so we have to enforce the laws on record or work to change the laws if we consider them unjust in the eyes of God.
Share in their Story
The story of the immigrant is the story of America. The only "native" Americans were the Indians who were here before there even were colonies and states. And yet the story of the immigrant is also the story of God's people.
Love the sojourner, therefore, for you were sojourners in the land of Egypt. You shall fear the LORD your God. You shall serve him and hold fast to him, and by his name you shall swear. He is your praise. He is your God, who has done for you these great and terrifying things that your eyes have seen. Your fathers went down to Egypt seventy persons, and now the LORD your God has made you as numerous as the stars of heaven. (Deuteronomy 10:19-22)
The history of God's people is a history of a people looking for their homeland. Our forefathers were sojourners in Egypt waiting for God to set them free to enter their homeland. Even the verse before our text this morning says, "And the LORD said to me, 'Arise, go on your journey at the head of the people, so that they may go in and possess the land, which I swore to their fathers to give them.' (Deuteronomy 10:11) God has promised us a land, but our land is not on this earth. We are citizens of the heavenly city. We are sojourners and exiles waiting for God to call us home.
What to do to solve the immigration problem in our country may be complex. But it is not complex how we treat the immigrant; we love them. It is not complex how we view our laws. We strive for justice by enforcing our laws and working to pass laws that are keeping with God's law. We of all people should be able to relate to those who are not in their homeland, for our allegiance is primarily not to any nation, but to the Lord our God, the great, the mighty and the awesome God and to our Savior who has purchased it with his blood. Beloved, one day let us hear those words from our King, "Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these, strangers, my brothers, you did it to me" (Matthew 25:40).
We must view our lives with dual citizenship. We primary citizenship is in heaven, and yet we are still called to live responsibly as citizens of the United States of America. We have the responsibility to think thoughtful about how we engage in the immigration debate holding those twin truths of God's love and God's justice together. God loves the sojourner, thus so should we!! And God loves justice, thus so should we!! We live for God's glory to be seen in our land and over the whole earth. We must avoid harmful characterizations and prayerfully consider how we can be faithful citizens of our Lord Christ while we strive for God's glory to be manifested on our shores.
image credit (https://s.yimg.com/sr/img/4/794b6294-1cc0-3b60-9a7b-a954951aa8f2)
image credit (http://brothersofthebook.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Heart-Circumcised-.gif)
image credit (https://sp.yimg.com/ib/th?id=HN.608047655933118723&pid=15.1&P=0)
image credit (http://mattcapps.files.wordpress.com/2011/07/dual-citizenship.jpg)


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Meet Bessie Bunny. She is having her big debut today on Sew-a-Softie.
Sew-a-Softie is an annual month-long event in July that expands all forms of social media. It was created by Trixi at Coloured Buttons. Please go to Trixi's website for a link to all the wonderful people who are participating in this blog hop. Wait until you see all the free patterns and tutorials. They will be awesome. Just use the tag #sewasoftie to find them. There will also be lots of fun prizes. We would love to see your creations, so please post them on facebook.
Thank you to Shannon Fabrics for donating Bessie's sweet fabric for her body and tail. Thank you to Fairfield World for donating her soft stuffing. By the way, on the back of all the Fairfield World bags of poly-fil there is always a cute pattern and now they even include a stuffing stick to assist in the process of stuffing.
Bessie is so easy to sew by machine or by hand. She only requires scrap fabric about the size of a piece of paper and a handful of poly-fil stuffing. I used Shannon Fabrics Cuddle 3 in Baby Pink for the body and their Monkey Shag Fur in Baby Pink for the tail which is only 4" wide. I also used a teeny-tiny piece of Liberty London tawn fabric for the inside of the ears.
Here are some links to tutorials on hand sewing stitches. You basically only need the backstitch for constructing Bessie and then a french knot for her eyes. The ears and tail are put on with a whip stitch and the running stitch is for basting the tail.
- Backstitch by Sara's Hand Embroidery Tutorials
- Running Stitch by Sara's Hand Embroidery Tutorials
- French Knot by Sara's Hand Embroidery Tutorials
- Whip Stitch by Pam Ash Designs
Click here for Bessie Bunny's template.
NOTE: This project uses a 1/4" seam allowance and it is included in the template.
Print the template twice. Cut out the templates.
Following the instructions on the template cut the fabric with the nap of the fabric going in the downward position.
Sew the two body pieces together along the sides and top with right sides together. Leave the bottom open.
With the body still inside out, attach the bottom to the body with right sides together. Leave a two inch opening.
Turn right side out.
Fill the body with poly-fil.
Close the bottom with a hand whip stitch.
Sew the ears with right sides together, leaving the bottom open.
Turn right side out.
Fold the bottom of the ears up and inside.
Then attach to the head with a hand whip stitch and pinching the ear a little in the middle for a simple pleat.
Baste around the edge of the tail leaving two long lengths of thread.
Pull the lengths of thread to form the tail into a ball leaving a very small opening to fill the the tail ball.
Stuff the tail ball with poly-fil.
Sew the tail ball closed with a whip stitch. Use something thin like a bamboo stick to pull the long pile from out of the sitches.
Attach the tail to the body of the bunny.
Add the eyes with the french knot stitch.
Hoppy trails to you and your bunny!


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"Earthquakes in London" Rocks @ Steep Theatre
Theatre review by Kerstin Broockmann
3.5 stars out 4
For any theater-goer who enjoys epic plays about humanity's inexorable drive to self-destruction, the year is off to an auspicious start, with at least two such epics already gracing Chicago's stages. The more optimistic of the two is Mike Bartlett's Earthquakes in London, now in its U.S. premiere at Steep Theatre. Human greed is the cause of the destruction in both plays (the other being Maria Irene Fornes' What of the Night?). Bartlett's play is full of insightful ironies alongside desperate distractions, and, ultimately the hope that it offers seems hollow. But the distractions help make the critique of Western society's acquisitive excesses more palatable, even fun, as the environmental apocalypse draws nigh. Steep Theatre once again proves itself adept at cramming a cast of thousands in a genre-switching three-hour extravaganza onto a postage-stamp stage. The talented cast and full-throttle staging are engaging enough to keep questions about the play's structure and intentions at bay until the lights come down. After, unless you must be up early the following day, you can discuss the forces that may ultimately lead to the demise of humankind, and who is to blame for unleashing them.
Midway through Bartlett's cautionary tale, Peter, an awkward but insistent teenager, bums a smoke, explaining that he found out that the body fully recovers from the effects of smoking in just a few years, and he's young enough that he figures he'll have plenty of time to quit and undo the damage. This attitude parallels those of the other characters in the play on a macro scale, as they recognize the harm they are causing the Earth, but figure the Earth will be able to recover. As the earth approaches a crisis that threatens humanity (the eponymous earthquakes being a symptom), the characters of the play deal with their own personal crises. Ultimately, in Bartlett's vision, the earth will have to wait for an environmental apocalypse before a prophet emerges to save the planet and the vestiges of humanity that cling to a tenuous existence. Somehow, Bartlett has taken this global cautionary tale and spun it around the dramas of one multi-generational family in London and the people that share their lives. The plot weaves between the stories it portrays at breakneck speed, somehow finding reasons to throw in several musical numbers, scenes that take place between 1968 and 2525, and a political burlesque. The Earthquakes of London rollercoaster takes so many sharp turns that the unsatisfying lack of concrete solutions is not immediately apparent—and it is a fun ride.
Jonathan Berry moves the chess pieces of the play with characteristic aplomb, unfazed by jumps in time and space, assisted by a cast that is willing and able to pivot on a dime and a design team that allows the action to shift quickly and easily from claustrophobic rooms and offices, to expansive street scenes. Scenic designer Arnel Sancianco, lighting designer Brandon Wardell, and projections designer Joseph A. Burke provide a sleek, somewhat futuristic play space, employing minimal, light furniture that serves to establish scenes including government offices, restaurants, clubs and various outdoor settings. Above the stage is a glowing reflection of the tectonic plates that are shifting under the feet of the characters below. Sancianco's lighting is saturated and alternates between pinpoint specific to pastoral to pulsing club lights, while the set incorporates upstage panels and multi-purpose, flexible set pieces to allow for maximum momentum. Burke's projections, though occasionally used to establish a realistic place and time, are often abstract, helping set the tone and connect the spaces. Matt Chapman's sound design and music range from the playful to ominous. Alison Siple has created multiple costumes for much of the cast, reflecting the principle's stations in life (the rumpled professor, the power-suited politician, the carefully careless student, etc.), their time periods (from 1968 to 2525), shifting identities and the coordinated bright retro style that signals the musical numbers. Kat Powers provides the props that keep everything grounded in recognizable reality, while matching her finds to the ephemeral space. Special mention goes to burlesque choreographer Tia Greer for her environmentally-oriented tease.
Though the design elements create a space that allows for the human stories to unfold and the characters to travel in time, it is the nuanced and committed performances of the cast that make this a ride worth taking. At the heart of the sprawling mechanics of Bartlett's vision is a family torn apart by ideological and personal concerns that mirror the soaring hopes of the human race as well as its self-destructive tendencies. Unlike the teenage Peter, the adults grapple with deciding to take the long view, or to continue the paths that will most likely lead to the demise of future generations. This grappling begins in the past with Robert, who caves to the siren song of corporate profit; changing course, he poisons the family tree with his self-righteous self-loathing. Nate Faust, excellent in a number of roles, plays the young Robert as an awkward, hopeful scientist who is overwhelmed by his growing ties to convention. As the aging, reluctant patriarch Robert, Jim Poole injects just enough regret and self-awareness into his portrayal to avoid becoming absolutely loathsome. Leea Ayers is a striking presence and lends an effusive joy to her role as Robert's wife. As the older Robert's caretaker, Mrs. Andrews, Donna McGough is a compellingly laconic foil for Robert. The show belongs to the next generation, however: Robert's daughters, who are all struggling with their own existential crises. Cindy Marker as politician Sarah finds herself trying to reclaim the person in the power suit after too many years of giving in to political contingencies; while the façade stays firmly in place for most of the show (even in the most personal of moments), the cracks become more and more visible. Middle daughter Freya, pregnant with the next generation and terrified is played with barely contained hysteria buried under ironic fragility by Lucy Carapetyan, who manages to draw the audience into her own version of reality every time she is onstage—a reality which may not be entirely real. As the youngest, Jasmine, Sarah Price masks her lack of direction with spiky bravado. Being at different points in their life journeys also results in the three daughters being on different paths in their relationships. Sarah has nearly alienated her formerly supportive husband, who is trying to find his way back into the corporate world that has moved beyond needing him—Alex Gilmore's Colin is alternatingly affecting and amusing as he struggles to figure out how to reenter the world that he left, partly to support Sarah's career, with the assistance of Jasmine, who turns out to be better suited to the task than it first appears. Meanwhile, Sarah has a glimpse of the other side of the fence—the one that does not require pleasing constituents, worrying about the long game or working at monogamy—in the form of the charmingly persuasive Carter, played by Peter Moore. Freya's husband, Steve, finds himself on a quest to renew her faith in the family they could be, which gives him and the audience plenty of insight into what happened to the sisters; as Steve, Nick Horst expresses Steve's growing desperation and strength as he realizes that time is not on his side. Jasmine has her own foil in the idealistic Tom, who initially uses her to his own advance his own environmental activism; Greg Geffrard allows his character to struggle with ideals and strategies before realizing his purpose. Amber Sallis, takes on multiple roles but stands out in the role of Peter, a twitchy, awkward adolescent who accompanies teaching assistant Freya into her rabbit-hole of anxiety and ends up being a lot more than he seems. Rounding out the cast are Indra Andreshak, poignant as a long-time employee who finds she has not made much of an impression and ironically amusing as a misnamed retail store worker; Omer Abbas Salem as Sarah's hilariously unflappable assistant; and Patricia Donegan, excellent in various roles, including a lecturer from a very different future that seems curiously familiar.
Earthquakes in London proved to be a bit unsatisfying. After three hours of time-travel, random musical interludes and discussions of impending environmental doom, playwright Mike Bartlett's characters end up not resolving much of anything—interpersonal or political—and the audience is left with a post-modern deus ex machina to provide the answers that have eluded humanity. That said, the journey is compelling throughout, thanks to superb direction by Jonathan Berry, who keeps the action moving while recognizing that what makes us care are the characters, who never get buried under the tectonic shifts of the play. The entire ensemble slips easily between the symbolic and surreal, and the very real characters that are trying to survive their own versions of the apocalypse. Lucy Carapetyan as the prescient Freya is striking, while Cindy Marker's Sarah affectingly walks the line between the personal and the political. Ultimately, Bartlett's awareness of the interconnectedness of people comes through in this thoughtful yet propulsive production—no choice does not have repercussions, and healing, while possible, is a hard and often imperfect process.
Earthquakes in London runs through March 18, Thursday, Fridays, and Saturdays at 8pm and Sundays at 3pm at Steep Theatre, 1115 West Berwyn, Chicago, IL 60640, Thursday - Saturday at 8pm and Sundays at 3pm. Tickets are $10 - $35 and can be purchased at www.steeptheatre.com or by calling 773-649-3186. For more information, visit www.theatreinchicago.com.
Kerstin Broockmann spent years working in Chicago storefront theaters, mostly as a director, but also venturing into performing, designing lights and violence, stage management and writing/adaptation. Some of her favorite theatrical experiences include work with Azusa, Pyewacket, Rogue, A Sense of Urgency, The Strange Tree Group, Tinfish and Tripaway. She served for several years on the board of the Women's Theater Alliance and helped coordinate the New Plays Workshop and Festival for two years, as well as editing and contributing to the WTA Newsletter for a spell. Now an AMS-Certified elementary teacher at Intercultural Montessori Language School, Kerstin's directing work in recent years has been limited to staged readings, though she was also able to sneak in a production of Don Juan in Hell for Rogue Theater as well. A former amateur boxer, Kerstin has also written ringside reports for the blog Cyber Boxing Zone.