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I will be signing books at the Westwinds Bookshop in Duxbury, MA, this coming Wednesday, July 20, at 4 pm. This is a wonderful bookstore that has been really working at supporting local authors. I'm so honored to be included in their summer line up. Look who else will be there: David Kelly, July 21, 3pm
Jennifer Haigh, Aug. 3, 7pm, Duxbury Free Library
Jackie Davies, Aug. 6, 1pm
Ann Hood, Aug. 31, 7pm, Duxbury Free Library
See you there! Here's a link to my event: http://www.westwindsbookshop.com/EventFlyers/Day.htm


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Casper Crime Stoppers: Crime of the Week 9-21-14
On September 14th, 2014 at approximately 12:30pm , a red 1965 Ford Mustang was parked on South Elm Street in front of Dean Morgan Junior High School. A dark colored pickup with white lettering on the tailgate, struck the driver's side of the Mustang. The pickup then left the area traveling southbound on South Elm Street.
If you have any information regarding this crime or any local criminal activity, please call the Crime Stoppers Tip line at 307-577-TIPS (8477). You can also use your mobile device to send a text tip. Send your text to CRIMES, start your message with Casper, leave a space, and then type your tip. A free app for mobile devices is also available from TipSubmit Mobile. You will remain completely anonymous and may earn a reward of up to $1,000.00.

subset: commoncrawl


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Craft PomPoms
Your favorite brand of glue
Your favorite curved hook
A fly box full of Glo Bugs
Just stab a craft pompom onto the curved hook, apply some super glue to the hook and push the pompom into the glue. Its as easy as that!
The fly that doesn't require thread. I love this method for egg flies. So simple and easy.
I just wish they made steel head orange and cheese colored pom poms.
I'm gonna have to try this thanks for posting.


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Somehow, a recent conversation with a friend turned to a discussion of English-language covers of foreign songs. I'm not exactly sure how that happened (the conversation, not me having a friend) but it inspired me to write this post and share a few of my favorites. Warning: this is going to be Flash-y. I want to include specific videos so I'm going to keep it all in the same format for consistency.
Let's begin. And yes, I know the photo is completely unrelated. I'm doing a thing here, so just let it go.
An oldie but goodie (on both sides of the pond) is "La Mer." Charles Trenet wrote and popularized the song in French in 1946. Later that same year, Jack Lawrence wrote English lyrics and the song became "Beyond The Sea." You've probably heard Bobby Darin crooning it. Here are both versions.
It's hard to say which I prefer. Trenet had an amazing voice and gets credit for penning the tune, but Darin just swings it so hard. Let's call it a draw and make sure both are in your music library.
Moving from France to Germany: Harry Winter had a hit in 1948 with "Und Jetzt Ist Es Still." Here's the original song.
Three years later it was Americanized and became a hit for Betty Hutton as "It's Oh So Quiet." More recently, a crazy cool singer called Björk covered it, complete with Spike Jonze video. I'm going to post that one because, um, Spike Jonze.
I'll also give Björk's version props for being my favorite. No offense to Ms. Hutton but those screams blow me away every time. And the original is a bit stuffy, no?
Finally, the song "Perhaps, Perhaps, Perhaps" has been popularized by a few different acts over the years. Nat King Cole loved performing it, Doris Day has a classic version, and Cake helped reintroduce it to a younger generation. That's just to name a few of the many, many covers through the years. Here's the Doris Day version from 1964.
The song was originally by Cuban songwriter Osvaldo Farres and became a hit in 1947. "Quizás, Quizás, Quizás" is still a Latin staple. Here's the amazing Gaby Moreno doing an acoustic cover.
I'm not sure you can beat that version. Point, set, and match to Gaby.
Like I said, these are just a few of my favorites. Feel free to add yours in the comments or pass them along to us. I'm always interested in hearing the origins of a song I love.


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Resource documents will be posted as they become available. These are downloadable files. Click the title to access the file. Some documents may take a minute or two to load.
The resources listed below are those published from 2012 to 2016. They are categorized according to the years to which the reports refer. The years they were published will be in parentheses. To view additional resources, clink the link at the bottom of the page labeled "Archived Resources." There you will find resources published from 2008-2011.
USDA Household Food Security in the United States 2016
USDA Household Food Security in the United States 2015 (Released Sep. 2016)
2014USDA Household Food Security in the United States in 2014 (Released Sep. 2015)FRAC How Hungry Is America (Released April 2015)Long-Term Benefits of SNAP: White House (Released December 2015)2013Reaching Those In Need: Estimates of State SNAP Participation in 2013 (Released 2016)
State Trends in SNAP Eligibility and Participation Among Elderly Individuals, Fiscal Year 2008 to Fiscal Year 2013 (Released July 2015)
USDA Food Security Report 2013 (Released Sep. 2014)SNAP Workload Management Matrix (Updated 2013)2012USDA "Household Food Security in the United States in 2012" (Released September 2013)USDA FNS "Measuring the Effect of SNAP Participation on Food Security" (Released August 2013)FRAC Food Hardship in America (Released February 2013) Idaho at a Glance: University of Idaho (Released June 2014)Archived Resources


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Denver Birth Photographer - the homebirth waterbirth of baby Salem
When I found out Nicole was expecting...and having a homebirth...and lived in Baker, which was only five minutes from my home in Denver....I couldn't have been more thrilled. One of the hardest parts of birth photography is timing. Knowing when to go to a birth is complicated because each woman and each birth is so different. When you add in traffic and drive-time across the front range an already tricky situation can become even more difficult. At the time we first talked, I had no idea I would be in the midst of my first trimester (and horribly sick) so when December came around, I was even more grateful that her birth would be close to home.
When I got the call that it was time to join Nicole...my nausea was at an all-time high. And yet when I arrived at her Denver home and gave her sweet midwife, Kathryn Raynes, a big hug...all of my sickness went away. To see Nicole work with such grace, strength and beauty as she labored inspired me and encouraged me. The temporary discomfort of the first trimester was going to be worth it.
Nicole wanted her husband to catch her baby, and so once she got into the tub, Kathryn prepared him to welcome his daughter into the world. I love seeing how midwives are able to give families the space they want and need, while still providing excellent care. Baby Salem came quickly and peacefully - right into her parent's hands and arms. The joy that filled the room was palpable. I drove home that evening feeling tired but incredibly blessed to see such beauty and strength time and time again.


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Aug. 14, 2013: Average rates on new credit card offers remained at 14.95 percent Wednesday, according to the CreditCards.com Weekly Credit Card Rate Report.
The editorial content below is based solely on the objective assessment of our writers and is not driven by advertising dollars. However, we may receive compensation when you click on links to products from our partners. Learn more about our advertising policy.
The content on this page is accurate as of the posting date; however, some of the offers mentioned may have expired. Please see the bank's website for the most current version of card offers; and please review our list of best credit cards, or use our CardMatch™ tool to find cards matched to your needs.
|CreditCards.com's Weekly Rate Report
|Avg. APR
|Last week
|6 months ago
|National average
|Low interest
|Balance transfer
|Cash back
|Instant approval
|Bad credit
|Methodology: The national average credit card APR is comprised of 100 of the most popular credit cards in the country, including cards from dozens of leading U.S. issuers and representing every card category listed above. Introductory, or teaser, rates are not included in the calculation.
|Source: CreditCards.com
|Updated: Aug. 14, 2013
Average rates on new credit card offers remained unchanged this week, according to the CreditCards.com Weekly Credit Card Rate Report.
The national average annual percentage rate (APR) stayed put at 14.95 percent Wednesday, after dipping by one basis point the previous week.
None of the cards tracked by CreditCards.com featured rate changes this week. Most credit card issuers also left promotional balance transfer offers and short-term APRs alone as well.
One issuer, Barclays, fine-tuned an offer on a rewards credit card for frequent fliers. Barclays introduced a 0 percent APR offer to the U.S. Airways Premier World MasterCard. Applicants who qualify for the U.S. Airways card will now be able to make interest-free purchases for up to 12 months.
The issuer also shortened the card's 0 percent balance transfer period from 15 months to 12 months. Barclays left the card's $89 annual fee alone.
Credit card use falls again
Issuers have slowly increased the number of changes they made to card offers in recent months as they try to lure new customers and encourage current cardholders to spend. However, many credit card holders are still reluctant to pull out their plastic.
As the economy gradually gains steam, consumers are taking out larger numbers of loans and slowly increasing household debt, research shows. But many are leaving their credit cards at home or are only charging what they can afford to quickly repay.
Consumer borrowing, excluding mortgages, for example, rose by nearly 6 percent in June, according to a report released Aug. 7 by the Federal Reserve. However, revolving credit — which is mostly made up of credit card debt — fell by 3.8 percent.
The Federal Reserve's latest report on household debt and credit shows that consumers are feeling confident enough about the economy to borrow money for a new car or pay for higher education. But many still aren't ready to charge smaller items to their high-interest cards.According to a second report, released Aug. 13 by TransUnion, the average borrower is carrying about the same amount of credit card debt as he or she did during this time last year.
The average amount of card debt per borrower, for example, fell, year-over-year, to $4,965 in the second quarter of 2013 — down from $4,971 in 2012.
Consumers are also continuing to pay their bills on time at record rates. Late payments by 90 days or more fell to the lowest levels in almost 19 years, according to TransUnion.
"Consumers continue to value their credit card relationships as a primary means of liquidity. This is best demonstrated by the historically low credit card delinquency rates we see today," said TransUnion's Ezra Becker in a statement accompanying the report.
Consumers weary of looming rate hikes
A number of consumers told researchers that they think the Federal Reserve is going to raise rates this year after leaving them alone for nearly five years, according to the survey.
The Federal Reserve has left the federal funds rate target — which helps set other rates, including credit cards — near zero since December 2008. As a result, loans on new homes and cars have been much more affordable over the past several years.
Now that the economy is growing at a faster pace, the Federal Reserve could decide to raise interest rates sooner than it forecast.
According to the report, 68 percent of consumers told researchers that they thought interest rates would rise sometime in the next year — up from 33 percent in July 2012.
As a result, a larger number of consumers — particularly those with higher incomes — said that they would likely rush their borrowing this year in order to take advantage of today's record low rates. "Among households with incomes of $75,000 or more, more than one-in-four cited the advantage of buying homes before prices or interest rates increased in July," wrote researchers in the report.
See related:Feds ease up on credit limits


text: #OHIOConnect: A Networking Mixer Thu, February 5, 2015 Amplified Communication will host the second annual #OHIOCONNECT networking mixer on Thursday, February 5, 2015 from 6:00 pm – 8:30 pm. The event will be held in the beautiful Walter Rotunda on Ohio University's West Green campus area. This contemporary networking mixer provides the opportunity for millennial students, entrepreneurs and taste-makers to interact with like-minded peers, Ohio U alumni and faculty to learn from experienced professionals about the benefits of professional networking. The theme of this year's event is #whoyOUknow, emphasizing the importance of knowing who you are to maximize networking opportunities and maintain personal relationships when entering and navigating the professional world. For details, please visit http://ow.ly/I3EYD


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It's been a while since comicdom's most well-known heroine, DC Comics' Wonder Woman, received a new creative team on her series and when writer Walter Simonson takes over the reins from exiting writer/artist Phil Jimenez, it'll be a chance for the veteran creator to remind fans just why Wonder Woman has endured for such a long time.
"There are two intertwined concepts behind the Wonder Woman story I'm doing," Simonson told CBR News. "The first is taken from the Aesop's fable about a brass jar and an earthenware jar caught in a flood; the second a lesson taken from C.S.Lewis' book, Till We Have Faces, in which Lewis suggests that we are fortunate indeed that the gods do not in fact dispense justice to mortals. I've gone from there and built a story around Diana, several mortals, and an interestingly random selection of gods! We're taking a closer look at the question - how hard do you have to fight when everything you've known, believed in, or loved is being taken away from you?
"My first issue is 'Wonder Woman #189' and is due out at the end of February. It ships the last week of the month.
"I'm drawing my cast out of the Phil Jimenez run that precedes mine and I'm adding a few new characters as my story needs them. So Trevor Barnes, several of the Amazons, and some of the known gods will be appearing in the story. I'm also introducing a young boy who lives in Trevor's neighborhood and a young woman who is a big Wonder Woman fan. There's also a really nasty dog but he doesn't show up for a couple of issues.
While some may look at the character of Wonder Woman and say that she's carried her own series because she is one of the first prominent female characters in comic books, but Simonson says that very fact is what makes her so special. "Actually, I think the fact that she was one of the first prominent female heroes is something that sets her apart from the rest of the pack. Essentially, she's the godmother of superheroines as Superman is the godfather of superheroes. That alone puts her in a unique category. And the fact that she's been reinvented off and on over the years and kept going is a testament to her flexibility and endurance. And really, she has a great costume! I'd be doing these stories just to get Adam Hughes to draw more covers.
"One of the big appeals is--hey! It's WONDER WOMAN!!! There are only a handful of genuine icons in the comics business and she's one of them. And she's one of the only ones I haven't done before."
However, that's not the only inspiration behind Simonson's Wonder Woman stories and he explains that he found the light bulb in his head switched on by another medium. "I mentioned the twin concepts that got me on track for the story I'm telling back in the interview. And those were the inspirations that got this story underway. Those and an old Hammer horror film called 'Kiss of the Vampire' that had a great opening. I'm not telling any kind of a vampire story but the opening of that film was extremely cool and gave me an idea for the beginning of this Wonder Woman story.
"My goal is simple. Tell a good story. And when I'm done, that's exactly where I hope I've taken both Diana and her fans - through a good story."
While fans are generally looking forward the industry legend's work on "Wonder Woman," it has been commented by some that the six issue Simonson stint on the series is being overshadowed by news of his successor- popular Batman writer Greg Rucka. In the end, Simonson's not worried about fans perceiving his work as filler or as there being a lack of demand for the story within those six issues. "On the DC Wonder Woman board, at the end of the first couple of months after it was announced I was writing a few issues, posters had already posted three times the total number of words I'll be writing in all six issues of the book. And that was a month or two ago before any information about the issues I'm working on was actually available. So no. I don't really feel a lack of interest because of Greg's approach as upcoming series writer. I don't know that I intend to 'show' fans that I'm not doing 'filler'; I just don't plan to be doing any filler. I've got six issues to kick ass and that's two more issues than most mini-series have. So stand back and give us room!"
The work on "Wonder Woman" has been enjoyable for Simonson and he says that it's due to two things: a great character in Diana and a great creative team around him. "The hardest part has probably been doing the research for the story," explains Simonson. "But since that's one of the parts that's the most fun for me in any story, it hasn't been a problem. The easiest part has been working with the rest of the creative team on the book. A pleasure and a breeze.
"As far as his being a perfect fit for me, Jerry's a perfect fit for a good story because he's an exceptional storyteller. And that's exactly the kind of work he's been turning in on Wonder Woman. Thoughtful, clever, well-considered visual storytelling. And that's the stuff I like the best. After all, it makes my job easier!"
After his work on "Wonder Woman" is complete, Simonson says he has some more exciting projects planned for fans and is able to reveal a few at this time. "I'm currently penciling the first issue of an 'Elric' four issue prestige series for DC Comics written by Michael Moorcock, Elric's creator. And for those of you who aren't familiar with Elric, check under Moorcock at Amazon.com. Just be prepared to sift through a LOT of entries. The man's incredibly prolific! And I'm also working on one of the issues of DC's 'Solo' title as well."
While fans wait for "Wonder Woman #189" to ship, Simonson says that he only asks one thing of fans: "I hope they'll all take a look at the issue. I don't think they'll be disappointed."


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It's officially Fall in the Pacific Northwest. The rain is falling and soon the majority of our beloved trails will be covered in snow. Syncline is a trail system just 67 miles away from Downtown Portland and runs all year round. "If you aren't familiar with the Burdoin Mountain - Coyote Wall - Catherine Creek areas, you've thus far missed out on experiencing one of the Gorge's truly unique treasures. Situated just upstream from White Salmon on the Columbia River, these adjacent areas feature rugged cliffs, Oregon white oak woodlands, wide open meadows and sweeping views of the Gorge that rival any other around. The unique soils and climate have created some very special plant communities that include many endemic and rare wildflowers that deliver a spectacular succession of colorful displays. And with unique plant communities come unique species of animals that are equally as rare as the plants they rely upon for habitat." - Washington Trails Association
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Our latest adventure started with the long climb up Little Maui and Rim View Rd. The views are gorgeous and I could do hill repeats all day on that trail alone. We connected with Shoestring dropping us into a twisty canyon of tight single track covered in Fall leaves. As the group pulled away I found myself all over the trail. I back off realizing I need to ride at my much slower pace to not only enjoy the ride but to eventually become a better rider. Michael has a catastrophic flat which destroys his rear rim. It's been an odd day of mechanicals. As Michael walks back to the car we get in one last loop climbing up the Jeep Trail and connecting it with Little Moab. Hugging the cliffside Little Moab is littered with challenging rock gardens and formations. Again as the group pulls off I find myself off the back and over the bars. I am relatively new to Mountain Biking so everyday on the trail is a learning experience and I am ready for more!


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Welcome to Leighton Buzzard Golf Club
Proud to be more than just a golf club
- Long term strategy to continue investment in the course and member facilities
- A modern clubhouse with excellent facilities, fabulous views and exceptional bar & catering.
- Golf Director, Maurice Campbell is an award winning coach and heads up a great team in our shop.
- A unique feature of membership of our club is that members have the opportunity to help shape the future and security of their club.
- Starting golf is easy, fun and affordable.
- Enjoy all the benefits of the clubhouse, catering and club social events with our social membership package.
- A fantastic venue for corporate days, meetings and seminars.
- A perfect venue for weddings and receptions.
- Golf society or charity day packages.
"Joining the golf club is one of the best decisions I've made and I wish that I had done so years earlier" "I have been made to feel very welcome by everyone in the pro-shop, those that run the club and the playing members." J Woolford 2018
The first 9 holes were opened in 1925 and quickly gained a reputation as one of the finest layouts in Bedfordshire. It features a stunning par 3 voted as the best in Bedfordshire by the legendary golf journalist and TV commentator, Henry Longhurst. Over the following decades it has evolved into an 18 hole course offering a delightful blend of visual charm, enjoyable for golfers of all abilities.
On the Bedfordshire/Buckinghamshire borders.
Located on the outskirts of Leighton Buzzard, it is very accessible from the M1 and A5, only 15 minutes from Woburn, Bletchley, Milton Keynes and 5 minutes from the centre of Leighton Buzzard. The golf course winds through cleverly bunkered tree lined fairways and features small excellent greens with subtle gradients. It is a course that ensures a very enjoyable and memorable experience.
Weather & Course Info
Course Status
Leighton Buzzard: Course open


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In a 2012 study entitled 'Global Workforce Study – Engagement at Risk: Sustaining Employee Engagement in a Volatile Global Environment', the consulting firm of Towers Watson found that two-thirds of Canadian employees were not fully-engaged in their work. Why does this matter? Companies with high employee engagement were found to have profit margins that were three times higher than companies with low employee engagement.
To access the full report, click HERE.
Retaining and supporting workers is critical to a company's success and growth. By monitoring workplace health, organizations are better positioned to create an environment that can lead to success for all. Given the unique needs of each workplace, organizational reviews may include activities such as evaluations, needs assessments, or process evaluations. These are custom designed in order that results are of value and can inform next steps within an organization.
Some of the areas that may be included in an organizational review are employees' perceptions of:
- job performance
- team performance
- training opportunities
- advancement opportunities
- motivational levels as it relates to different aspects of the work
- commitment to the organization
- organizational support for a variety of issues (e.g., stress levels, mental health/wellness promotion, parenting/eldercare responsibilities)
- organizational culture
Please contact us if an organizational review is of interest to your organization.


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Please click anywhere to continue browsing our site.
OK Tire Vancouver has been serving British Columbia since 1987, with exceptional auto repair Vancouver BC services and the best Vancouver BC tires in the business. "From Father to Son", O.K. Tire Vancouver treats every customer like family, offering the best deals in town with trust worthy advice about any vehicle on the road today. Stop in to our location, or contact us today for the quality service you deserve!
OK Tire Vancouver has been open since 1987. The family owned business lives up to their "from father to son" motto, by offering unmatched care for their customers. Located in Vancouver and surrounding areas, our certified technicians can perform auto repair service for tires, brakes, alignments, and preventative maintenance. We are open Monday through Saturday 8:30am to 5:00pm.


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In this 3 part workshop series, you will learn the theory to understand how to use Facebook for maximum business promotional effect, and then we'll put it onto practice. We'll go over the basics first; then we'll look at the more advanced features plus the third party applications that will you help you to manage it more effectively. Finally we'll look at how to use Facebook ads to extend your reach and convert followers into paying customers.
Session 1 – Master the Basics (9.30 – 10.30)
Session 2 – Advanced Marketing (10.45 – 11.45)
Session 3 – Apply the Theory (12.00 – 1.00)
To book please go to http://www.eventbrite.com.au/o/business-station-7441942477


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I didn't get my second B6026 finished but I do have a cute Rachel Cowan skirt finished to make an out fit with a top I made a while back and I'll show you that in a bit but first, I'm so excited !
I've been attracted to Sure Fit Designs system for a while now but it wasn't until I watched Joy of Joyful Expressions Blog display her plethora of stuff made by using SFD that I had to have another look.
I spent two whole evenings while my husband was away, perusing the Sure Fit website and watching many free videos Glenda very generously provides I hesitated for a bit because of our diminished Canadian dollar and by the high shipping for anything over $75. I decided after seeing this on the Sure Fit Designs blog ... a $50. Gift certificate for $25. In the end I ordered the Dress kit and the large and small design stylus.The shipping was $14.95 and that seems reasonable given our very high Canada Post shipping prices.
I can't wait for my Sure Fit kit to arrive so I can try my hand at designing my own ideas or copying RTW or patterns I don`t want to buy. This is going to be a whole new venture for me and I`m so ready to take my love of sewing in a new direction.
I`m also confident that having the Sure Fit system will help me greatly in fitting my ladies in Sewing Group. Here`s the link to an introductory video that shows what you can do with the master pattern.
Now here is the outfit combining top V8856 and skirt V1247 that I`m wearing today.
Hmmm...probably won't happen too often but rather this is how I'll wear the skirt
I should mention that I make the pockets of the Rachel skirt differently than the pattern shows.
Here `s what I do.
As you can tell , I've moved the pockets closer to the sides of the skirt front. I just prefer them that way.
I eliminate the pocket bag and use Steam a Seam on the right side of the pocket as shown here.I use Fusi Knit to stabilize the skirt front where the pockets will be stitched.
Before pressing the pockets down, I top stitch the openings on the lower skirt piece.
I press the pockets in place and run a line of white (so it will be seen easily on the outside) basting stitches to outline the pockets. I then top stitch using this white line as a guide.
This makes for a nice clean finish and eliminates bulk
That's all I have for you today. Thank you so much for stopping by. Next week, I'll show you Tamara's Valentino red ,long wool winter coat so please come back.


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the CSA FAQ's
Q: What will come in my CSA share?
We try to include between eight and ten different items in your box each week. In spring, your box will be heavy with fresh greens, baby lettuce, asparagus, spinach, cabbage, radishes, peas, rhubarb, green onions, garlic scapes, cherries, apricots, beets and strawberries.
In summer, you can expect tomatoes, corn, eggplant, peppers, carrots, green beans, summer squash, zucchini, lettuces, kale, sweet onions, garlic, peaches, plums, pluots and summer apples.
In the fall, your box is overloaded with everything as harvest is in its peak, but as fall moves towards winter you'll receive more root vegetables like carrots, beets, potatoes, plus winter squashes, dried beans, onions, garlic, kale and collards, nuts, apples, pears, and much more.
Q: How many people will my CSA share feed?
The answer to this questions depends on how many fruits and vegetables you normally eat! We typically say that a small box is the ideal size for a couple and the larger box (Produce Lovers) is good for several roommates or a family with older children. If you're not sure which size to get, you can always subscribe to the small box and bump up to the bigger box later in the season if you aren't getting enough to go around in your household.
Q: Why is the produce in my share different from others I see?
There are often differences between the contents of the small and large share sizes. This is because occasionally there will not be enough of a given item to go in all of the boxes, so only the smaller or larger shares will get it. We try very hard to always make sure that boxes of the same size receive the same items, though occasionally shareholders will have a choice between one item or another. For example, one week you may choose between kale and Swiss chard while the large boxes have collard greens.
Q: I don't want to pay online. How can I sign-up?
You can sign-up for the CSA online, but pay by check or in the shop. If you'd rather sign-up on paper, simply Download the 2014 CSA Subscription Form. Fill it out and bring it into the store.
Q: I can't afford to pay for the full share before the season starts. Can I still participate?
Of course. We ask for a deposit to reserve your spot when you first sign-up. We also ask that you pay for your share in full by the time that it begins. If this is not possible, please talk to us about a payment plan. Many of our members use a payment plan to pay for their shares throughout the season and it works out well for everyone.
Q: Is everything in the CSA share organic?
We try to support and purchase from small scale, family owned and operated farms with sustainable growing practices. However, this does not mean that every item in the box will be certified organically grown. We try to always indicate the growing practices used on an individual item on the enclosed weekly newsletter. If you have any questions about a particular farmer's growing practices, please ask! We know all of our farmers first-hand so that we can provide you with exact information.
Q: When are the CSA pick-up and delivery times?
You will be assigned to either Wednesdays or Thursdays for pick-up. The shares are available between noon and 6:00pm. Deliveries are done on these same days and are usually delivered by 3:00pm, but always by 5:00pm.
Q: What if I go on vacation or don't pick up on time?
If you are able to notify us that you will be late or can't pick up on your normally scheduled day, we'll usually be able to accommodate your needs. However, if you do not tell us ahead of time, we donate all unclaimed CSA shares. If you are planning to be away on vacation for several weeks and want to receive a credit for those weeks, please let us know ahead of time, or sign into your account and input your vacation dates so that we don't put a box together for you.
Q: If multiple people at my workplace want their shares delivered here, can we get a group discount on delivery?
Yes! We are always willing to reduce your delivery fee if there are multiple shares being delivered to a single location. We will waive the delivery fee altogether if 10 or more shares are delivered to a single location.
Q: If I'm gone for a week can I have a friend pick up my share?
Yes! If you're gone, a friend is welcome to pick up your share. As another option, all unclaimed shares are donated to local food banks. If you are planning on being gone and would like to receive credit–either in-store or cash–make sure to notify us at least a week in advance.
Q: How do I know what my member ID and password are in order to access my account and pay online?
Your member ID is your email address and your password was sent to you upon your initial signup. If you have lost your password and would like to receive it again, click on the Forgot password? link on the login page
Q: Can I join partway through the summer?
Absolutely! The weeks you missed will just be pro-rated.


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After his Tom Steel Fellowship, Clement Lee joined Immigration Equality as a Staff Attorney.
Clement--a Pride Law Fund 2011-2012 Tom Steel Fellow--is a Staff Attorney at Immigration Equality, focused on representing lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people held in immigration detention.
View more coverage in Clement's Immigration Equality profile.


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Letters to the Editor
'Perspective will change'
There will always be those in any population who have a propensity toward violent anti-social behavior. We might have been reading headlines about two to five people killed, and two or three wounded, if there had been one person present with a legal concealed- carry weapon to stand up and take the offender out.
The option for self- or group-defense should not be left to the anti-gun groups. When it is you, or a member of your family, looking in the barrel of a gun in the hands of a crazed killer or a gang member, your perspective will change.
The law won't stop the bullet, but a legal concealed-carry weapon in the hands of a trained individual definitely could have rewritten the history of this sad day.
Ken Hodel
Squaw Valley


text: With an alumni base of more than 200,000, the University of Texas at Arlington is touching people all over the world. We hope you stay connected to the Maverick family and welcome your participation in alumni events and annual fundraising celebrations such as the Dream Makers Luncheon. Your support helps the College of Nursing and Health Innovation serve more students and enable faculty to conduct cutting-edge research. When you make a gift to the College, you are not only touching the lives of our students, faculty, and staff, but the lives of patients they serve locally and throughout the world.


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I was in a great mood until about 10 minutes ago… now I am filled with sorrow, and anger. I am filled with empathy and compassion, and with a burning desire for vengeance…
I am part of an international blog movement to remember each and every innocent life lost during the attack on September 11, 2001. Each of us volunteered to be paired with one of the names of the victims and write a tribute for them. The intent of this tribute is so that their name will live on – not only in the memories and scrapbooks of their family members, but also in the minds, and hearts of those of us that choose to Never Forget.
The individual that I was given to research was John G. Ueltzhoeffer. One of his colleagues and friends wrote this last year as he remembered John:
It has been seven years since I last saw John on September 10, 2001 at the Marsh office at WTC1 95th floor. Myself and John were hired by Craig Hayashi in June 1998 and we were part of an unique team called the Enterprise Architecture Group.
Our job was to be thought leaders in our respective technology domain of expertise and to help Marsh's (and MMC companies) senior level executives, business leaders and technology group understand how new technology solutions could be leveraged to support the business tactical and strategy goals.
As a software architect, John led the team's initiative to exploit JAVA and was instrumental in establishing J2EE as the software architecure framework standard at Marsh.
I can remember when John worked on the initiative to select an application server standard for Marsh. He was proactive in his efforts and had recommended the IONA application server (www.iona.com). Although his recommendation was turn down by senior management due to IBM's Websphere application server having greater marketshare, John led the efforts to establishing development standards leverage IBM's Websphere at Marsh.
John had a strong commitment to his religion faith and family – his office was full of family photos and artwork drawn by his kids. In terms a colleague, John was always supportive of my initatives as Marsh's Data Warehouse Architect.
John's family and friends should be proud to know that he made an impact on his colleagues at Marsh and always had a positive attitude and humble demeanor.
John is always in my thoughts and he his missed.
James L. Smith
Another aspect that I learned about John is that his little sister, Helen, thought the world of him. She still misses him and often expresses the depth of this void in comments to other tribute entries that mention her brother. He was also a devoted member of the Christian group called Promise Keepers. The mission of a Promise Keeper is to ignite and unite men to become warriors who will change their world through living out the Seven Promises. Promise Keepers' vision is simply put in three words: "Men Transformed Worldwide."
When people met and got to know John, I learned from my research, three important aspects to his life quickly came across – the pride he took in doing his job, his deep religious convictions, and his love for his family. John was a technical architect in the Marsh technology department so therefore had to have in-depth knowledge about the latest computer technologies. John was very knowledgeable in this subject area so quickly built up a high level of respect with his peers. During meetings and discussions with John on various technology issues he was often described as always speaking with such enthusiasm and be so up to date with the latest technology developments that it made others make sure they were up to date with their readings just so they could keep up.
Another aspect of John's life was his strong religious beliefs. It did not take long in talking with him for his faith in God to come across. Whenever he went out to lunch together with friends, he would always take time to say a prayer before having lunch. In the time following John's passing, it has become more evident about this side of him and how involved he was with his church group and friends. This has gone further to impress friends that knew John in that he lived his life which such conviction.
Most importantly, was John's love for his family. Two instances that typify this in John. The first was when he was on a business trip overseas in Europe. He had been gone for about a week and a friend remembers him talking on the Friday when he was set to come home. He mentioned how he had switched his flight to an earlier flight so he could get home earlier. He then said something to the effect of how hard it was for him to be away from his family. It was not the words that he said that his friend remembers, but the way he said it just underlined how much he missed them. The second was when a few of them were at lunch. Somehow the conversation turned to their families and John took a picture out of his wallet of him and his wife on their wedding day. One of the guys at lunch remarked how beautiful his wife was and how he thought she looked like a movie star. Upon hearing this John's face just lit up and you could see the happiness and love he felt. This is the way that friend remembers John G. Ueltzhoeffer – and I think the way that we all should as well. A devoted Christian, father, brother, husband, and son…
A few paragraphs of words obviously cannot do justice to capture all that John meant to his family and friends. In my own memories I'll remember John for the unassuming way in which he lived his life and how much of an impact he had on people around him. Even though I never met John in person, I feel like I know him and know that this world is less without him in it…
Tears are flowing easily now, and I'm remembering re-experiencing the rage and indignation that I felt "That Day". I would imagine that That Day will remain with me all the days of my life – seared into my memory, much like scarification sears a design into skin.
John, to you – and to all the victims of That Day:


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Run. Think. Shoot. Live. Source. Black Mesa is the Half-Life 2 total conversion of the original Half-Life game. Utilizing the Source engine and its endless array of possibilities and powers, Black Mesa will throw you into the world that started the Half-Life continuum and introduced Gordon Freeman to the world as a gun-toting, bullet-dodging Ph.D. in Theoretical Physics.
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Fantastic Four
Fantastic Four / Update #2 / August Week 4
Photography Project #1
In today's modern world, photography is not just about taking a nice picture anymore. With digital editing software and online avenues to present images, photography can be used and manipulated to express and explore just about anything. This project used that idea, to create a photo collage that represented a period of time (this course), the student's personality and his values.
Photography Project #2
With the same idea in mind, we used photography as a springboard to other media like stop motion and film. This project showed that with just a little bit of understanding of how to use online tools and how images can work together to show motion, you can have a great deal of control and expression through stop motion animation. The Mac desktop app Lapsodi was used to make the video.
Fantastic Four / Update #2 / August Week 4
Though our sculpture week was cut short, I wanted to at least let X experience making a mold and cast for the sculpture project. This project opened the idea that most sculpture artwork requires a skilled process and understanding of materials to create, but can produce remarkable results.
Fantastic Four / Update #2 / August Week 3
This mixed media piece marked an accomplishment in perseverance and overcoming challenges. You could call this sophisticated doodling. It is a stream of conscious artwork that required not giving in to distractions to stay in a mindset of creative play, and laid a foundation and language for future progress.
Fantastic Four / Update #2 / August Week 2
This project focused on exploring drawing, and all art making, as a way to express and explore what is important to us and the things we see, feel, and experience. Drawing is a way to make what we see in our minds eye come into reality, the things that of fantasy and imagination can come to life.
Fantastic Four / Update #1 / August Week #1
Discussion: What ties our four topics together?
To kick off Fantastic Four, we talked about what ideas tie photography, sculpture, painting, and drawing together. Languages are made up of letters, symbols, words, sentences, paragraphs, etc. When we are born, we don't come out writing essays. We have to learn one thing at a time, and before you know it, we're speaking all the time. When we learn enough of a different language, we can communicate in those languages and see how all the languages we know relate to each other, and how one language allows us to express something better than another. We learn languages, and, in Fantastic Four, different art forms, to express, to explore, and to enjoy.
Practice 1: Outside -> In
Watch any "how to draw" video and artists start with the big shapes first. Yet, our natural tendency is to be very careful when we draw and go from one detail to the next. The downside is that we don't take into consideration the whole image, and details end up getting out of place and out of proportion. X practiced visualizing the largest shapes of what we want to draw, using our whole arm (instead just our fingers) to draw those big shapes, and then drawing details last. It's an odd way to draw at first, but in time it's more rewarding.
We used Pokemon as a subject, since they are usually made up of big simple shapes.
Project 1: ...
We'll take one day next week to finish the final drawing project. More to come on that! Don't want to give it away.


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March 2011
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DHL developed this new distribution centre as a joint venture with MetLife Real Estate Investments. It was the first unit to be constructed within the 44 acre G.Park Liverpool site. The construction of the multi user warehouse was completed in March 2011.
This 33,645m2 (360,000 sq ft) building was to be used as a key distribution centre in the North West of England, taking full advantage of access to the regional and national motorways, most importantly the M6 and M62.
The warehouse needed to be fitted out to facilitate an environmentally controlled racked storage facility. In addition there was a requirement to fit out a three storey office accommodation block and new transport office
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We liaised with the base build design team to rectify issues from the pre-fit out and were also able to achieve minimal defects at the end of the project due to ensuring continuous inspection during construction.
We were under pressure to deliver the project to a tight timeframe and so we therefore ensured we worked cohesively with the contractors to achieve the required end date. Some of the areas were ready early enabling the client to move in pre-practical completion.


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Skellig really is a magical place. Continue reading
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Irish History Circle Talk – Monday 15th May
Why do we hear so little about Michael Davitt's place in Irish history? Continue reading
Irish History Circle on 24 April at 7.30pm
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This agent symbolizes the buyer in the real property transaction. Experts recommend using billboard in actual estate in the event the agent will probably be selling a complete subdivision. The major difference between both is that brokers are licensed to manage their very own businesses, while agents aren't.
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Every market differs however people often respond to messages which are similar. So that alphabet soup following the name may be an indication the individual has taken additional classes in a particular specialty of property sales. It's possible for You to recycle your domain names with time.
For both NFL players and realtors, success wants a team effort. They answered, It is a fast food joint, needless to say!'' Life in a fresh area has a new array of questions to be answered.
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It actually seems that they work harder and face more obstacles than the majority of people to be able to attain something that another man or woman can with not as much effort. Let's take a peek at group B, the prosperous property professionals in the modern economy. Additionally, I've even had the privilege in order to engage in helping them all to develop into successful.
Think of your own business enterprise name, register your organization and get business enterprise cards printed up. They are also useful for the business lovers. These magazines have every one of the sorts of news regarding the economic condition of all businesses.
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This really isn't the simplest thing to do whenever your agent is actually a friend or perhaps a friend of the friend. The day may come where you like to create a change since your agent isn't being all they could beand you might second guess it because of the personal relationship. Generally In most situations, it's not a great concept to truly have a dual agent on account of the conflicting responsibilities to every party.


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Does China have a bubble problem? Of course it does. We've written here several times about how 10% growth a year is unsustainable; about the obvious property bubble; and about how the Chinese authorities appear to have lost control of monetary policy.
So I was interested to see GMO's Edward Chancellor writing on the subject in the FT yesterday. Seems he is pretty convinced as well. All great bubbles, he says, have easy money and growing leverage. They reflect George Soros' theory of 'reflexivity', whereby their markets are determined by "a two-way feedback" in which reality helps shape the participants' thinking process and the participants' thinking helps shape reality. They end up in a situation where "already-inflated asset prices can only be sustained by further price appreciation and ever-increasing leverage". And – as we always find out in the wake of their collapses – they are "accompanied by fraud".
China currently shows all the symptoms of a great bubble. Construction accounts for around 25% of economic activity and "the anticipation of future Chinese economic growth drives new construction while new construction drives economic growth". That's reflexivity at work.
But can it last much longer? People assume that property prices will rise indefinitely – because they have so far. But "the newly constructed apartments in many Chinese cities are unaffordable to anyone but the rich elite, speculators have acquired millions of apartments that are currently sitting empty, while a glut of new supply is set to hit the market this year". Bubbles continue "until the misperceptions of investors are so glaringly obvious they can no longer be ignored". That can't be long now.
I'd give you one more thing – Anthony Bolton. Bolton has long been known as Britain's most successful value investor, a man who apparently never compromised his investment principles when he was based here. These days he runs a fund in China. And according to Money Marketing he doesn't invest the same way there. Sure he looks for cheap companies but he also buys "firms which are growing more strongly but have fuller valuations." He tells the mag that he "would have been less willing" to buy this kind of stuff when he was investing in Europe "but that he has to make allowances for differences in the Chinese market."
Oh dear. At the beginning of his column Chancellor takes a swipe at investors who "entranced with China's apparently glorious prospects" ignore the dangers posed by its bubble. They think China is different. But it probably isn't: so far history has made it pretty clear that all speculative bubbles are pretty much the same.


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Maternity Style: Tropical Summer Tassel Outfit at Pier17/
Back on June 30, I attended the Color Block Party for Pier 17 as they re-opened and launched their new Geronimo orb installation! It was pretty hot that day and I was 6 months pregnant, but I made the most of it with a cool, lightweight dress and my very own water cup. I still feel a little bit left out when everyone's having cocktails and I can't, so having this cup made me happy! People kept coming up to me and asking me what I was drinking. Spoiler: just water!
The theme of the event was to be colorful and wear summer brights, so I wore my awesome tassel dress I got last year from Forever 21. I accessorized it with tassel everything, like earrings, a bracelet, and a keychain. I wore cute and comfy colorful crocs plus my flamingo bag for the very first time. To copy the look, I've got 3-4 options you can snag to get a similar look!
Overall the outfit was perfect for keeping cool on such a hot day. I didn't even get to wash & style my hair because I wasn't feeling well, but putting it in a cute bun helped to keep me cool so it ended up being perfect. I brought along a matching pair of sunglasses too, but it ended up not being that sunny so I didn't need them. Into the purse they went!
My husband wasn't planning to come with me that day, but I wasn't feeling well and it was over 90 degrees on top of that, so I was thinking of not going which made me super bummed! I had already convinced all my friends to join me, but I live much farther so it was a long trip to do alone. I asked him to come and I think he felt bad for me so he joined as well! You can see by his face he was having so much fun joining us. That's sarcasm, by the way. He didn't enjoy the heat!
PS- You can tell I love a theme and picked out my husband's outfit so he could match too! As for everyone else, well... I have no control over them! Haha. Overall it was a really fun event and I love getting dressed up in fun colors, so I call that a win! So crazy that soon I'll have a mini-me to bring to all these events.
I'm hoping to post about my cute and comfy outfits and adventures more often. Hopefully it'll encourage me to dress better- hah!


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On butterflies and unlucky numbers./
Do you ever wake up and have that feeling in your gut that SOMETHING is going to happen?
Like you have butterflies in your belly, but you don't know why.
Everything around you feels like it is in super sharp focus and you are just waiting....
for something.
Or maybe I am confusing that feeling with having had too much coffee and the uneasiness is simply a caffeine rush and I have to poop.
Either way, this is how I have been feeling since Sunday.
It could be the change in the season affecting me, as it tends to do this time of year, and the tingling in my brain and my belly is that of increased anxiety and the onset of SAD.
October is kind of a weird month for me. The fall colours surrounding me are soothing, as is the crisp air I inhale deeply as I walk Willow every day. It is a month of celebration in our house with Seven's (soon to be Eight's) birthday, Canadian Thanksgiving, and our wedding anniversary.
It's also the month of preparing for winter. Putting away the yard furniture, raking up all the leaves and making an appointment to get the winter tires installed. And while I like to be proactive about these things, so I don't get stuck at the bottom of the hill by our house during that first big snowfall - AGAIN! It also feels like I am reaching for those last days of sun, of playing outside with only one layer of clothes on and soaking up the last bits of our way to short fall season, on our way to a long, dark, winter.
This month also marks our 13th wedding anniversary. I've always thought of the number 13 as unlucky, mostly from buying into the usual superstitions, and all that Friday the 13th movie stuff as a kid. And possibly because I got my damn period when I was 13 - so you know, that was great. When I think about it, something feels a bit off in celebrating this "unlucky" number. In an effort to turn around my thinking and subdue any silly superstitions, I've been researching the numerology meaning of 13, and lo and behold, it is surprisingly fitting for where we are in our lives:
I can't think of a better way to describe our life right now. New beginnings, and building, and creative expression - yup, that is us. New house and renovation, the kids starting a new school year, and ahem... as of tomorrow, a new job for yours truly.
This "new" development is also contributing to my October anxiety/butterflies. I didn't quite plan on getting a job outside the home this year, and I have to admit that this one kind of fell onto my lap in the most serendipitous of ways. It's a job taking me back to my sales roots (retail), in a place I love to shop, and working for a strong, incredible woman whom I admire, and whose philosophy I believe in.
As I sit here and watch the leaves change and fall, and the tall grasses sway in the breeze of this cool fall day, I am trying to reframe my usual October anxiety and embrace the butterflies. I am breathing deep into by belly, and getting ready for new patterns in our lives. I am choosing to open myself up, rather than cocoon into hibernation-mode as I traditionally do at this time.
Basically, what I am saying is:
Or at least I will...


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I had a startling realization while reading a thought provoking blog post from Republican strategist Mindy Finn dissecting Hillary Clinton's debate answer on paid leave policies.
At the core of many of our economic debates regarding minimum wage, paid leave, mandatory health benefits, and other regulations is a question that we almost never (if ever) debate.
The conservative argument in many of these debates is gee, it would be nice for people to have these things, but stop living in a fantasy land liberals. If government mandates them, we'll force small businesses to cut employees or go out of business, and we'll do real damage to the economy.
Liberals talk around this argument—they discuss the necessity of a living wage, the way that all other industrialized countries have laws mandating many of these benefits, etc.
To a large degree, both sides are right.
To pay for new benefits or higher wages, businesses either have to charge consumers more, or if that is not possible, provide such benefits to fewer employees. While some businesses might generate sufficient profit to cover new perks, it seems safe to assume that others would, in fact, have to resort to cutting workers.
Liberals are also correct that, while it's nice to imagine that a competition for employees will produce businesses voluntarily adopting better compensation packages, in many fields a surplus of workers exists. They are also right that many salaries (or hourly wages) are inadequate, and that the lack of certain benefits places a real hardship upon workers.
Which brings us to the debate that we really ought to be engaging in as a society: should the goal of our economic policies be to maximize the number of jobs created, or should it be to create fewer, but better, jobs?
Liberals ought to acknowledge that forcing businesses to adopt greater benefits will lead to a reduction in the workforce. Conservatives ought to acknowledge that sparing businesses from such mandates will lead to more jobs, but jobs that often do not enable people to make ends meet.
Rather than arguing in circles about individual policy issues (which are important in their own right), we ought to ponder this bigger question that shapes the answers to policy questions. There are legitimate arguments to be made on both sides of the debate.
Without an answer to this question, however, we're left to talk past each other on many issues. This muddles the situation for voters and policymakers, and frees politicians to resort to pie in the sky sophistry.


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Sheena Parveen joined us tonight for not your average forecast We are LIVE and INTO THE NIGHT once again taking your phone calls, answering questions and questioning answers. Joe Corrado is in the house bringing some noise and Luigi Curto as always is manning the phones.
One hell of an opening introduction
Jose From Norristown officaly thanks the Flyers for participating this season
Tony clears up some 60's music mystery for Robin
The offical Tony Bruno Show archivist calls in with some classic Into To The Night clip
Sheena Parveen and Joe Corrado finnaly spoke on the phone and she gives us a national forecast and a Garden Of Eden update
Robin shares her own personal bug experience
An Indonesia update telling men to pass their laundry to the left
Once again we would like to remind you to please share and subscibe to the podcast. Tell your friends and tell them to tell their friends to like, share, tweet and help us grow! See you all next Monday night!


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For a period of 20 years, beginning in the early 1970s and into the 1990s, public education in Canada proceeded in many diverse directions with what appeared to be a variety of goals.
This made it increasingly difficult to evaluate the effectiveness of schools, nor was it a priority of either government or the public to assess school effectiveness during this era. The clear purpose of public education appeared to be clouded, partially due to government ideology, which often translated into policies and programs designed to use the schools to address social issues rather than improve the education of the students who occupied the classrooms.
Since the mid 1990s, however, we have begun to witness a change in the direction of education as a result of the implementation of educational reform initiatives which are clearly based on standards, accountability and student achievement. Consequently, it is much easier to define the purpose of public education and evaluate school effectiveness today than it was ten years ago.
Although education is a provincial responsibility, national trends are emerging. Some of these trends are province-wide testing and outcome-based education, a reduction in the number of school boards or outright elimination of them, restructuring of teacher education and certification, establishment of school advisory councils, and a movement towards charter schools, with an increasing anticipation of policies ultimately leading to the privatization of schools.
New Directions, the blueprint for educational reform in the province of Manitoba, was introduced, in 1994, by the previous government, and specifically addresses essential learning, standards and evaluation, parental and community involvement, and distance education and technology.
The majority of these reform initiatives were implemented prior to the change in government in 1999, and, interestingly, the current government has only made minor changes to them, primarily in the area of provincial standards tests. This may be in response to the reality that educational reform in Manitoba is the result of the larger educational reform movement which is occurring throughout North America and that this reform is being driven by forces outside the education system. These forces include globalization, changes in the nature of work, movement towards a knowledge-based economy and the rapidly increasing pace of technological change.
These trends are also impacting on the structure of organizations, which are being forced to streamline for quick response. As more knowledge is being generated faster than ever before, bureaucracies are diminishing, leaders are being forced to take risks and decentralization is occurring within organizations as they begin to dismantle hierarchical management structures and replace them with flat organizational systems designed to empower employees in decision making and increase emphasis on teamwork. Today, the same economic and cultural forces that are transforming Canada are directly affecting our education system.
In fact, the reform taking place in the education system is common to any large system or organization which is being directly affected by rapid and constant change.
The rapid development of technology has also created an impetus for public schools to form relationships with businesses. Government simply cannot afford to fund schools adequately for the purchase, service and replacement of changing technology, but a viable solution can be found in facilitating partnerships between educational institutions and the business sector. This reality will create massive opportunities for increased community and business partnerships with public education institutions. Inevitably, increased demand for taxpayer money to fund public education will promote a restructuring of the system to make government more of a facilitator and less of a controller.
The impact of these forces on the education system will only strengthen it.
Through business-education partnerships, increased technology usage and a concentration on learning skills, the public education system is adapting to the demands of a rapidly changing workforce. Schools are beginning to move beyond their previously defined boundaries. This is resulting in greater community involvement, such as advisory councils on school leadership and schools offering collaborative programs with business and community service agencies. Progressive educators are beginning to examine partnership possibilities to facilitate student transition from high school to work and to post secondary programming. There is a new emphasis on education as a continuum rather than a series of segments.
Major demographic, economic and social forces are shaping the future. Quality education is directly linked to economic development. In order to meet the emerging challenges, our education system must develop and deliver programs that will produce enterprising and self-reliant individuals who will spark innovation in a world where knowledge and information are of high value and time is increasingly limited.
In formulating decisions relating to restructuring the education system, it is critical that government does so within the framework of educational reality rather than political reality. The status quo is no longer an option in preparing for the 21st century
William Bumstead recently retired as an educational adminstrator, wherein he was involved in developing many partnerships between public education and business, and he is now involved in business and education management consulting.


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Tullyvar Cottage is a stunning
self-catering cottage decorated to the highest specification. It is located between Ballygawley and Aughnacloy with fabulous mountain views. This is a perfect luxurious country retreat for both a romantic long weekend or a longer family holiday.
Tullyvar Cottage is a beautiful property located on a hill with fabulous views, and is close to both Ballygawley and Aughnacloy in Co. Tyrone. The property is very accessible to the A4 main link route between Dublin and Derry/ Londonderry. Situated within 3 miles of the border with Co.Monaghan in the Republic of Ireland the cottage is ideally located for travelling all around Ireland.
The property is accessible to the Ulster American Folk Park (Omagh), President Grant Homestead (near Dungannon), Fermanagh Lakes and Enniskillen. The Sperrin Mountains (Gortin) and Armagh Cathedral, Armagh Planetarium and Navan Fort are within a half hour drive. Belfast is only 1 hour drive east, Londonderry and the North Coast is 1 hour north while Dublin is 1hour 45mins south.
Tullyvar Cottage is situated on the edge of the Clogher Valley which is steeped in ancient Irish history. The scenic Clogher Valley is often referred to as 'Carleton Country', because it was the home of the acclaimed 19th century poet and novelist William Carleton. In a time of the Irish peasant before the Great Famine of the mid 1840's the area and his surroundings gave Carleton the inspiration for his work.
The Carleton Country Trail is a way marked trail which follows walking and cycling routes, taking in many of the landmarks which have Carleton associations and which allow you to enjoy this beautiful and historical countryside. Clogher is one of the most ancient places in Ireland and was once the capital city of the Principality of Oriel. The most famous of its buildings is the cathedral, in which is preserved the 'Cloghor' one of the 'Three stones of Erin'. Although a monastery stood here in earlier times, (two high crosses still survive) and was followed by a medieval cathedral, the present building dates from the mid 18th century. According to legend, the first bishop of Clogher was St MacCairthinn, the 'strong man' of St Patrick.
On the outskirts of neighbouring Ballygawley a breathtaking view can be seen from Errigal Keerogue. Here lie the ruins of St Kieran's Church with its very early cross. The church is said to date from 1489 and was of Franciscan foundation. In the village of Augher is Spur Royal Castle, a typical plantation castle with an interesting history. Just outside Augher, in pre-Patrick history a hill was given the name of Knockmany, the Hill of Aine, a Pagan Goddess of Love. On the summit, to this day, is a large grave called Knockmany Chambered Cairn on whose stones are carved strange concentric circles. No one is quite sure what these circles represent but some scholars connect them to the religious cult of a Mother Goddess in ancient Syria about 3000BC. Another ancient site situated only a few miles from Tullyvar Cottage and located in the picturesque Favor Royal Forest is St Patricks Chair and Well which is reputed to have mistical powers. Why not visit Tullyvar Cottage and absorb the diverse and interesting history of the Clogher Valley and enjoy the myths and legends.


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Breakfast Omelete Casserole
The title says breakfast omelette casserole, but let's be honest, you can eat a casserole of this kind at anytime of the day. Eat it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner if that tickles your fancy. Sometimes we over complicate food and make things that are time consuming, messy, and tedious to complete. But it's always nice to have those go to recipes that are simple, easy, and quick to make. Especially when that meal can be popped in the fridge and saved for later, or taken with you for on the go if you're going to work, an event, or for a picnic outside. This recipe was originally featured on the "Fresh Dreamer" website, but it was re-posted by the people over at the "Red Sky Food" website. It's understandable why it's being shared so much, it's a great and delicious meal that anyone can whip up in no time, whether or not you're a great cook. The ingredients are basic, some eggs, cheese, bacon, hash browns, crescent roll dough, and any other additional toppings you fancy. You can add some other meats, cheeses, veggies, mushrooms, etc that you like to make it super customized to your families liking.
Essentially the prep is getting everything cut up and put together, which doesn't take much time at all. From there you just need to set it and forget it, place it in the oven for about 40 - 45 minutes and it's ready to be enjoyed. You can eat it right away, or have it cold, either way it will be awesome. So if you're wondering what to make for breakfast tomorrow, or lunch, or dinner... checkout this article on the "Red Sky Food" website, pick up the ingredients, and be prepared to be amazed at how simple it is to make a delicious breakfast omelet casserole!
Learn MORE / Get RECIPE at Red Sky Food
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I have so much to say about this game that I needed a way to control myself, so I have broken this Dark Souls 2 review into simple chunks so that you won't need to sift through me rambling about how in love I am with it. I have also done my best to keep this review spoiler free, and as such there is little mention of the story in DS2 (the story is amazing, if that's what you're here for).
Character Creation
Character creation in DS2 is much more involved than its predecessors. You can essentially customize your character in its entirety, although the true detail is found when forming the head. This means that you can still make really ugly characters (because why not?) and you can make them better… and you can make them hot pink. It's a great load of fun, when when you figure out how to actually navigate the customization menus.
The only truly negative thing that I have to say about character creation is this:
It's a shame that you will put so much effort into creation the ugliest scum of the earth, only to have it completely covered in armor 99% of the game. Honestly, I would much rather wear the armor than die but at least you would die looking fabulous!
More relevant to the actual character creation, though, is that I noticed a slight lag between accepting a characteristic. I'm the type of person who likes to see the changes instantly, it's an issue on my own part, but I was making changes so fast without even realizing they weren't showing that when my character finally rendered her cheekbones were a mile long and she looked like a freak clown. I hate clowns.
There's a "tutorial" in DS2, and it is a little more developed than that of DS. It truly is nothing more than "Hey, these are the buttons you need to press to fight." It's certainly helpful, but don't be fooled because there is so much left out. This game is not so simple that a few messages will help you become good at it. You'll need to discover the secrets on your own, or be sure to read the messages your fellow gamers have left for you. There is no guidance in DS2, no one to hold your hand through the adventure. It's titillating and terrifying.
Unfortunately, the end of the tutorial was not a boss battle. For a new player, it's a gift from the gods… but really, you don't know what you're missing out on.
After the tutorial, you arrive to the center point of the game, Majula. It is quite like the Nexus from Demon Souls, where players go to level up and trade with merchants. It's quite empty at first, with only a few residents upon your arrival but once you interact with NPCs outside of the small town, they will begin to move to Majula. Majula makes accessing all sorts of things so much easier when you know where to go. I spent a good portion of playtime trying to figure out which path I should take out of Majula. It just so happens the first one you take, despite the fact that it's sitting right next to the first bonfire, is down a hill. I did not see this hill because, you know, it kind of just looked like a cliff to me.
So instead, I went down a big spiral staircase and was crushed by this huge knight. I ran away in fear, but at least I figured out I was in the wrong place. The point of telling you this is that there is very little guidance of where to begin and where to go next. There are some exceptions, but chances are you'll find yourself in a spot you're not supposed to be in.
The controls in DS2 are not much different from Dark Souls. I think that the fighting is streamlined and it becomes even better when you level up- you're able to cast spells faster, successfully dodge attacks more often, and not fall on your face from getting punched. There are a few minor problems with controls, though. Sometimes when I am locked on to an enemy, my character decides to spin around and attack the opposite direction. It's super lame, but overall the fighting is so much more fluid compared to DS2's predecessors.
Other than a few tweaks on the control scheme, everything is pretty much the same. Those few tweaks could kill you now, though, so be careful – sliding down a ladder are different controls from DS so DO NOT make the mistake of just pressing B. If the ladder is big, you will die.
But this is Dark Souls. You're going to die anyways. Walking across a bridge? Dead. Taking a stroll through a forest? Dead. Gonna go pick up that item? No, you're not, because you're dead. This is not bad! I am thankful, because it wouldn't be Dark Souls if you didn't die. A lot. I have seen some people claim that this installment is dumbed down and "sooooo easy it's not even Dark Souls." The thing is, if you're able to compare DS2 with Dark Souls or Demon Souls, it means you've probably played those games. Which means that you don't need to get over a learning curve, you already know how to play. It doesn't mean the game is easier (because it's not, really), it just means you're a pro. Pat yourself on the back! That's something to be proud of. But don't get cocky, you're still gonna die and you're still gonna rage.
I'd like to say that the multiplayer aspect of this game is improved, but my opinion truly is not fully developed.
I have successfully summoned help with boss battles, but that success falls in between several failed attempts, often because the summon sign "has disappeared." I don't know if this means that I'm terribly unlucky and someone removes their sign every time I try to use it, or if it's simply an error within the game. When summoning players is successful, however, the connection is generally made fairly quickly and without fail- I have only received a "summoning failed" message a few times, and that's to be expected. This also applies to being summoned, but I am definitely seeing a higher success rate than that of Dark Souls, especially with the 1.03 patch released on April 11.
I have had utterly no experience being invaded, though. I'm disappointed in this. Maybe it's people are just not invading but that's unlikely. This is Dark Souls, people live to invade. I have interacted with duel summon signs, and so I do have experience in PVP. It still makes my stomach drop, and it's still really difficult. Lightning is OP and mages can cast spells ridiculously fast. What a challenge!
Invading is essentially the same, it hasn't happened for me. I've tried using the cracked blue eye orb and I've had the Guardian's Seal ring on for some time without any success. PVP is one of my favorite aspects of playing Dark Souls, so I am thoroughly disappointed in the lack of it in Dark Souls 2.
Changes Made in DS2
- Leveling up is the same as Dark Souls, except that it is no longer done at a bonfire. Instead, talk to the woman standing next to the bonfire in Majula. This is also where you upgrade your Estus Flask (in regards to the uses). The Majula bonfire is where you upgrade its strength.
- Warping is also easier in this game, as players no longer need to reach a certain point in the story before unlocking the ability to. It is available from the moment you rest at a bonfire.
- Acquiring boss weapons is also different in Dark Souls 2. Players no longer need to level up a regular weapon and then use a boss soul on it. There are now two NPCS that will trade a boss weapon for its corresponding soul.
- Turning human is also easier in this game. Use a human effigy wherever, whenever and you will reverse your hollowing. Beware, though, because these effigies are few and far between. Use them wisely. They not only reverse your hollowing, they also reverse your dwindling health bar (returned from Demon Souls). If you are out of effigies and die as a hollow multiple times, your health will remain low until you use another.
- There are also limited enemy respawns in DS2. Farming is still possible, but it is limited. After you've killed an enemy a certain number of times, it will remain gone unless a bonfire ascetic is used. Be wary, this also increases the difficult of the area surrounding the bonfire.
The game is still beautiful. I am perfectly pleased with the art and scenery, especially when you climb a tall tower and can see birds flying over a forest. I know that some people are upset about the lighting, but it truly doesn't bother me. I think that there are several environmental additions that balance this "problem." I'm also discussing the Xbox 360 version here, and I'm certain that all will look better with PC graphics.
This game is still plenty challenging, I was once stuck on a boss battle for days. Combine the fact that there are limited human effigies, dwindling health bars, and ways to actually boost the difficulty of the game (including joining covenants or using plenty of items), I truly do not understand the complaints that people are finding it "too casual." I promise, Dark Souls 2 is rage-inducing.
If you are having too much trouble and don't want to make the game harder, there are so many secrets hidden in this game to help you (and some can hurt you, so I'm not promising anything here). For example, one boss battle is done in the dark- unless you light the arena with a torch before going through the fog gate. There are also traps to set, different paths to take and areas to reveal. That being said, all you need to do is explore. There is so much to discover.
Also, the story is fabulous. Have you notice I didn't really mention that here? That's because I'm trying my best not to spoil anything. One of my favorite things about this series is the story and the lore behind it. I promise you, it's fantastic.
Despite these and other reasons for the game being great, I do have some problems.
The bosses are super cool, and while they are a-plenty I only struggled on a few. Some of these bosses are optional and it's really neat to be able to have so many more to fight, but it sometimes felt as though some areas were just all boss and nothing else. So, it's not that I don't like the bosses but I wasn't as nervous fighting them in this game, and that's partly due to a lack of buildup to the fight.
The levels are also not designed as nicely as Dark Souls, but I think that this is because the Nexus-approach was taken. I loved how everything was sort of tied together in Dark Souls, that you could finish one area and walk into one you've already completed without having realized beforehand that they were even connected. This is more of a personal preference than anything, but I was a little disappointed.
Overall, this game is majestic. I love it. A lot of reviewers are comparing it to Dark Souls. I don't have a preference; I love each game in different ways. That being said, if you did like Dark Souls or Demon Souls, chances are you'll also like Dark Souls 2.


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Some days, you can almost imagine why people become Republicans. It's much more convenient.
So it was July 6, when President Obama came to town. Republicans had their own pre-speech rally at Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall, blocks away from the Obama rally at Carnegie Mellon University. "You can park in one location, go to the first event, [and] return to your car for your protest sign," a Tea Party blast email chirped.
The earlier indoor event was shielded from the day's blistering sun — and with only about 100 people in attendance, there wasn't much body heat from the crowd, despite the presence of GOP luminaries like Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal. At one point, Allegheny County Republican Committee Chair Jim Roddey encouraged the crowd to cluster in front of the Romney campaign sign, so TV cameras could "get a great picture."
Having just created the illusion of higher turnout, Roddey then joked that Democrats inflated their political strength: He'd changed his will, he said, so that "I could be buried in Philadelphia and keep voting."
Roddey's witticisms notwithstanding, there's no evidence that voter fraud plays any role in determining modern elections. But thanks to a Republican "Voter ID" law requiring voters to present photo IDs, many Democratic constituencies may end up being the butt of Roddey's joke.
When Harrisburg debated Voter ID earlier this year, Gov. Tom Corbett's administration predicted that only one voter in a hundred would need a new ID. Actually, according to new numbers from the state, it now seems the ratio is closer to one voter in eleven.
That little fact was disclosed hours before the July 4 holiday — in a release headlined "Most Registered Voters Have Photo ID." That's a little like the state health officials announcing a plague outbreak under the title, "Most Pennsylvanians Remain Anthrax-Free." But Republicans had good reason for sounding blasé: The five counties with the largest numbers of voters needing ID — Allegheny, Philadelphia and three Philly-area counties — all went for Obama in 2008.
And to put this in perspective: Nearly 187,000 voters lack PennDOT photo IDs in Philadelphia County alone. That's more than Democrat John Kerry's entire margin of victory in Pennsylvania back in 2004.
The problem may still seem remote. Obama made no mention of Voter ID when he appeared before the CMU crowd of 6,000 people. Among other things, he extolled the fact that, thanks to his controversial health-care reform, "Insurance companies can't drop you when you get sick. ... [Middle-class families] don't have to fear that when somebody in their family gets sick, that somehow they're going to lose everything they've worked for."
But for all Obama's rhetoric, and the crowd's enthusiasm, there were bad omens on the ground.
Dozens of feet from where Obama lauded health-care reform, paramedics could be heard asking, "Does anyone need medical attention?" Though volunteers circulated with misting bottles, there was almost no shade anywhere on the quad. Dozens of people needed treatment for heat. Most of them were older, many were black ... populations that are among the most likely to be tripped up by a driver's-license requirement at the polls.
Obama's campaign mantra is "Betting on America," but in Pennsylvania, he's playing against the house ... and the pit boss is trying to swap the dice.
As of July 9, reporters observed that the state still had outdated voter-registration data on its website. According to the Philadelphia City Paper, meanwhile, the administration has let a $250,000 contract to help advertise the new Voter ID requirements, part of a $5 million effort to raise awareness of the new requirements. And the winning bidder of this contract? The Bravo Group ... whose head, Chris Bravacos, chairs Mitt Romney's fundraising efforts in Pennsylvania.
The Voter ID requirements are being challenged in court, and state Democrats insist that they can compete under the new rules. But they will likely have to work much harder than the GOP. In rural and suburban GOP strongholds, where car ownership is a necessity, voters will have little trouble furnishing an ID. But in many urban neighborhoods, logistical problems arising from the ID requirement may tax the stamina of even dedicated voters.
And that's the real challenge for Democrats. It's not the heat, it's the putridity.


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It may seem like team Frilly have become quiet and shy, but the truth of the matter is that all of our available blogging energy has been focused on a project we've been working on for a little while now. Until March, we're working in three Birmingham constituencies - Ladywood, Perry Barr and Erdington - on a youth arts signposting project where we try to join up the creative dots in those areas between service providers and young people. Every day the project seems to grow through new partners and networks and the young people themselves. I'm just extremely glad that in the early days I put together a tumblr, facebook page and twitter stream (and got them all talking to one another - hurrah!) because it's made life a little easier now that we're coordinating days and times across those areas.
In other news - we're still busy planning (arts)world domination! We've been working with two artist friends on a project for Birmingham and Solihull Women's Aid which will soon be completed - as well as tieing up loose ends from our two Brightspace projects from the summer term. Looking ahead to next year, we've now confirmed we'll be working on 3 projects for PiCL up in Stoke/Staffordshire - two of which are in SEN settings and one in a mainstream primary school. Exciting! Challenging! But mostly exciting!
Being part of Frilly has enabled me to stretch my own artistic practice and skills, as well as learn a LOT of things through doing - mostly around business development/management/financial planning - which I wouldn't have otherwise tackled. It's been a busy year, and we're only really just in November! (I'll save a retrospective post for December.)
Whilst we don't have any new arty outputs to share on here just yet - instead I'll share the work of an artist friend of mine - Leontine Greenberg - who carefully turned me into a corpse bride for Halloween! Her illustrations are beautiful and delicate, and she makes me want to play with watercolours and ink! (I promise that team Frilly are usually more vibrant and healthy looking than the image below suggests..!)