text:
Despite his technological ineptitude, Michael can string some great words together.
A timely post over at the Choco's blog caught my eye.
Well written Michael.
"Can I suggest the following "questions" to be used as a filter for the expression of our opinions towards and concerning one another (whether on a blog, from a pulpit, or just in casual conversation).
Will this communication build up the body of Christ?
Will this communication maintain the unity of the body of Christ?
Have I communicated to the person(s) or group(s) concerned and expressed my critique to them and given them opportunity to respond and correct or change their perspective before I communicate mine?
Have I judged the motives of the people / groups I am writing or speaking about?
Do I have the best interests of the other person or group in mind?
Am I speaking out of revenge / wounded pride / bitterness etc?
Am I free to not communicate? "
Rest of post at Choco'c blog
Bullard delivers
Monday, July 31, 2006 {0 comments}
Despite his technological ineptitude, Michael can string some great words together.
Email is like, so yesterday
Email, once the bastion of youth, is now being confined to work and old people.
Young folk are much more likely to be quickly developing arthritis from SMSing or more likely using msn.
I have recently started (I know I know, its been around for ages) using MSN.
Now all I have to do is get Michael Bullard to start using it and I will save him about $10 a week in stamps, yes stamps. Michael has been training up some pidgeons for a rainy day, just in case. His back is not getting any younger either, and carrying that laptop battery around is causing him to stoop.
Dockers do enough
Sunday, July 30, 2006 {1 comments}
After a fairly scratchy start Freo did enough in the 3rd quarter today to win the game against Carlton.
A dissapointing fourth quarter meant we did not get the percentage boosting win we wanted, but we won by 18 points.
Ryan Murphy was excellent with an accurate 5 goals.
Pav did enough, Farmer was hard working and Johnson was excellent, as was Sandilands.
Mundy was exceptional as well.
Thanks to the Roo's for knocking off Geelong and giving us a two game buffer in the eight.
If we get over the hapless Hawks, we should have done enough to make the finals this year.
Where to for Paul Medhurst? He could have been anything, but I cant see him getting another game this year.
Who would be a bookie?
With the weagles winning and the Bombers recording their second win of the season, who would be a bookie? Both entered their games as distinct underdogs, and both recorded emphatic wins.
As much as I would have preferred to pick up the Sunday Times and read the headline, "Shaky Eagles go down to Premiership Favourites Adelaide", at least it shows why the AFL is so enjoyed by so many people. It is a truly unpredictable game. Even the shape of the ball and oval is not 'regular'.
Wisdom Chronicles
Friday, July 28, 2006 {0 comments}
Great Quote
Thursday, July 27, 2006 {0 comments}
From Rick Warren's mail out,
"If you're in a job with a bunch of bad people who curse and swear and tell coarse jokes, I don't feel a bit sorry for you. They're probably why you're there."
Home Crowd massive influence
Wednesday, July 26, 2006 {0 comments}
Neale Danniher, coach of the defeated Melbourne Demons, has come out and said that the home town crowd at the Freo Melbourne game was a major reason why Freo beat Melbourne.
Certainly crowd reports from the game indicate that this was the loudest crowd we have had all year. It was a record crowd for a game between Freo and Melbourne.
Maybe it was also the fact that Freo played really tight hard footy for four quarters. Maybe that is why the crowd was so appreciative.
Either way Neales comments indicate that having 36, 000 people cheering for you if far better for you as a team than having 36, 000 people not really appreciating you (!)
Family Bush Dance
Tuesday, July 25, 2006 {0 comments}
Five most influential churches in the world
Monday, July 24, 2006 {7 comments}
Prompted by the latest "50 most influential churches" I have come up with my own list.
The 50 most list was composed by Americans, and with obviously blinkered view, all 50 are American.
My top five in the world.
1. Hillsong Church Australia (Houston) More than any other church in the world, this church has got churches co operating as the walls have come down. Most if not all evangelical churches in the world use their worship. Yes I am bias, but I think I could mount a good argument for it none the less.
2. Willow Creek (Hybels) Started off a revolution
3. Saddleback (Warren) Caused us to rethink our mission
4. Yoido Full Gospel Church, Seoul, Korea (Yonggi Cho) (253.000 people)
5. Holy Trinity Brompton Anglican Church (Nicky Gumbel) All around the world, many churches use the ALPHA course of evangelism Holy Trinity Brompton
Now here is the top churches/people that have influenced me personally
1. Albany Church of Christ Mark Randall was a passionate speaker and inspired me to be a Pastor in my formative Christian years.
2. Saddleback Rick Warren inspires me with his integrity and purpose
3. Jack Deere God is not contained in the theological constraints I placed him in
4. Hillsong Lets be relevant and passionate okay?
5. Paul Borden Ministry is too important to get caught up in politics
Worsfold clearly outcoached.
Saturday, July 22, 2006 {4 comments}
The Weagles cant do anything right. I wanted them to win this week, for Freo's sake, and get Colliwobbles down to our amount of points.
But JW was outcoached by a fired up Malthouse.
Freo made Collingwood look ordinary last week, the weagles had no answers for the match ups this week.
Who is meant to kick goals for the Weagles?
City of Blinding Lights
Friday, July 21, 2006 {0 comments}
Speaking about being the "Salt of the Earth" on Sunday.
Pretty challenging stuff, especially when Jesus says that salt that has lost its saltiness gets chucked away and trampled on.
This song from U2 is one that is good, I am using it to kick off the service.
Look at the last line, great thought. Do we understand with all the crap going on in the world, that the church is actually responsible? If we are called to be salt and light, we are not doing a good job.
The more you see the less you know The less you find out as you go I knew much more then than I do nowNeon heart day-glow eyes A city lit by fireflies They're advertising in the skiesFor people like us And I miss you when you're not around I'm getting ready to leave the ground Oh you look so beautiful tonight In the city of blinding lights Don't look before you laugh Look ugly in a photographFlash bulbs purple irises The camera can't seeI've seen you walk unafraid I've seen you in the clothes you made Can you see the beauty inside of me? What happened to the beauty I had inside of me?(cut) And I miss you when you're not around I'm getting ready to leave the ground Oh you look so beautiful tonight In the city of blinding lights Time...time...time...time...time Won't leave me as I am But time won't take the boy out of this manOh you look so beautiful tonight Oh you look so beautiful tonight Oh you look so beautiful tonight In the city of blinding lights
The more you know the less you feel
Some pray for others steal
Blessings are not just for the ones who kneel... luckily
Who was the well known Preacher?
Well the well known preacher was the recently departed
Interesting that what he was saying was scriptural, spot on, challenging etc.
I dont know if there is a point to any of this, I just found it interesting.
Which well know preacher said this?
Thursday, July 20, 2006 {0 comments}
You are the salt of the earth... You are the light of the world" (Mt 5:13-14): The images of salt and light used by Jesus are rich in meaning and complement each other. In ancient times, salt and light were seen as essential elements of life.
"You are the salt of the earth...". One of the main functions of salt is to season food, to give it taste and flavour. This image reminds us that, through Baptism, our whole being has been profoundly changed, because it has been "seasoned" with the new life which comes from Christ (cf. Rom 6:4). The salt which keeps our Christian identity intact even in a very secularized world is the grace of Baptism. Through Baptism we are re-born. We begin to live in Christ and become capable of responding to his call to "offer [our] bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God" (Rom 12:1). Writing to the Christians of Rome, Saint Paul urges them to show clearly that their way of living and thinking was different from that of their contemporaries: "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and pleasing and perfect" (Rom 12:2).
For a long time, salt was also used to preserve food. As the salt of the earth, you are called to preserve the faith which you have received and to pass it on intact to others. Your generation is being challenged in a special way to keep safe the deposit of faith (cf. 2 Th 2:15; 1 Tim 6:20; 2 Tim 1:14).
Discover your Christian roots, learn about the Church's history, deepen your knowledge of the spiritual heritage which has been passed on to you, follow in the footsteps of the witnesses and teachers who have gone before you! Only by staying faithful to God's commandments, to the Covenant which Christ sealed with his blood poured out on the Cross, will you be the apostles and witnesses of the new millennium.
It is the nature of human beings, and especially youth, to seek the Absolute, the meaning and fullness of life. Dear young people, do not be content with anything less than the highest ideals! Do not let yourselves be dispirited by those who are disillusioned with life and have grown deaf to the deepest and most authentic desires of their heart. You are right to be disappointed with hollow entertainment and passing fads, and with aiming at too little in life. If you have an ardent desire for the Lord you will steer clear of the mediocrity and conformism so widespread in our society.
Which well known preacher said this? I'll give you one clue, he is dead, recently.
Thrown away my Bible, Diary, Notepad, Mobile Phone etc
My good friend has just given me an O2 XDA II Device.
Now I have actually thrown away my diary, literally, it is in the bin. And my wife has been given my mobile phone, and I still have my well worn NLT Bible, and so the title of this post was meant to shock, more than be accurate (I should work for the West).
But what a brilliant device this is. It has a great system, good memory with an exapandable slot, good media player (listening to Delirious at the moment) and I have also downloaded E Sword to it (Bible Program).
I used to think people with these devices were just propeller heads, maybe they still are, but it really is useful.
(PS Michael Bullard, you really should get one, it will save you lugging that desktop computer around and pretending to everyone it is a laptop. The battery alone needs its own trailer)
Rick Warren and riches
Wednesday, July 19, 2006 {0 comments}
Here is an interesting article in the SMH
Rick spoke about this article when at Hillsong.
Interesting, but not much more information than we already know.
Obviously the money issue is the one the press are most interested in, not the lives being helped.
(Thanks to Bagga for the Link)
Michael Gardiner
The story in the West and splashed all over the TV News last night was all about the plight of West Coast Ruckman Michael Gardiner.
The West's story this morning detailed his on and off field drama's over the last few years.
Michael set out last night to grab some late night takeaway in his V8 Commodore. Only problem was Michael had been consuming Vodka, was drunk and smashed his car and two others.
This is a sad story for many reasons.
Michael is a very talented player. Many Aussie blokes would love to have his talent.
Michael has thrown it away because of one foolish choice after another.
It has come to light that this was his chance. He had six weeks during Cox's abscence to prove himself, and with Cox out, and West Coast's excellent midfield, he could have done it.
Instead he has made another foolish decision. What is perhaps more worrying is his lack of responsibility about it. He claimed he was not drinking, and had not done much wrong.
Unfortunately the blood alcohol limit was well over .08 and his own teamates and coach expressed their view that he had let the side down badly, which he has.
There is a distinct possibility Michael will not be covered by insurance if found guilty of driving under the influence. This will cost him a considerable amount of money, in fixing his own car, and two others, as well as court fines.
I feel sad for the young man, who at 26, had the world at his feet. With one bad decision he has hurt himself and set a bad example for others.
Lets hope he can turn it around. With just a few good decisions that is possible.
Get stuck into his footy at Claremont, pay his bills, face up to his responsibilties. With all the terrible stories of young Aussie males harming themselves intentionally, lets hope Michael seeks help.
Tough as, can't be Gods will
Tuesday, July 18, 2006 {6 comments}
Just a brief thought I wanted to write down and think about.
We have all heard the cliche, if one door shuts, dont worry, another will open.
I dont think thats true.
Maybe God wants us to smash down the closed door. Maybe the door is put there by someone who does not have our or God's best interests at heart.
Maybe we give up too quickly and too easily, citing God's will, when in fact its us being lazy or wanting things to be easy.
"Let go and Let God" , what a crock. Life is hard and tough sometimes. We dont get what we want, or even what we think God wants for our lives. Sometimes we get the exact opposite of what we think God would want for us, and it does not seem fair.
I dont see Jesus stopping when the going got tough. I see him going and being flogged to death for what He believed in. No easy road for that Warrior. If that was one door shutting, Jesus allowed it to slam shut in His face.
There was no easy door opened for Him to go through, and I wonder if there are many easy doors opened for us.
Eagles win a close one, again
Sunday, July 16, 2006 {0 comments}
If Stenglein had of missed that goal, they probably would have lost.
Here is a picture for all you blue and gold blooded fans out there.
Cracking Win, Very good coaching
Malthouse was comprehensively outcoached today by the positive Chris Connolly.
One interesting tactic which the team employed in the last quarter was long torpedo kicks into the 50. It has come out after the game that this was a tactic Chris instigated amongst the players, and it worked a treat. It kept the Pies defenders on their toes, and with Jeff Farmer running amok in the forward 50, we won a good quality game.
Special Mentions to Bell, 38 Possessions, Josh Carr, brilliant, tough and in it when it counted.
Drum played well for a young player, kicking a valuable goal, and his first in AFL.
Sandilands won it in the middle for us consistently, and it showed in the clearances.
Pavlich did not have his best game, and the defender on him played out of his skin, but Pav still managed to kick some goals.
Mc Pharlin played in defense and played well on Rocca.
Des Hedland got a rev up at half time and it showed with a BOG third quarter.
Shaun, my favourite player, also played well, without needing to dominate.
Go Freo!!
Next week against the Melbourne Demons will be a tough tough test, even at Subi. But the Demons do not fear Subi. But don't write us off, if we play like we did today, we are in with a chance.
Just one note on the umpires.
They played some very soft frees to both sides, and while they were consistent in their softness, it does not help the players, who were getting very frustrated from both sides.
Essendon trundle on
Saturday, July 15, 2006 {3 comments}
Great game between the Saints and Dons.
Dissapointing from a Freo POV that Essendon could not win. But thats life.
Mc Phee does not look at his best either. That's what happens when a average player has to play as a key play maker.
Robert Harvey is a trooper. Defintely amongst the best players on the field today.
But overall St Kilda's effort, with such a talented side, was pretty dissapointing, they dont really have anything to be proud of, winning in the dying minutes of the game, having been behind most of the day to a team who have been terrible most of the year.
Essendon have never had such a bad season in my memory. Wonder who they are going to beat this season, maybe the Blues? How the mighty coaches of the AFL have fallen.
Jeremiah 33, preaching and Delirious
I am speaking from Jeremiah 33 tommorow.
6"Nevertheless, the time will come when I will heal Jerusalem's damage and give her prosperity and peace. 7I will restore the fortunes of Judah and Israel and rebuild their cities. 8I will cleanse away their sins against me, and I will forgive all their sins of rebellion. 9Then this city will bring me joy, glory, and honor before all the nations of the earth! The people of the world will see the good I do for my people and will tremble with awe!
10"This is what the LORD says: You say, `This land has been ravaged, and the people and animals have all disappeared.' Yet in the empty streets of Jerusalem and Judah's other towns, there will be heard once more 11the sounds of joy and laughter. The joyful voices of bridegrooms and brides will be heard again, along with the joyous songs of people bringing thanksgiving offerings to the LORD. They will sing,
In this passage the people of Israel, Gods only children find themselves in exile, being attacked, facing an uncertain future. Where is God in all of this?
Where is God when we suffer?
At the Hillsong Conference Delirious sung this song, listing some of the awful things we face, yet we are still able to cry out, in faith, Our God Reigns. Its a beautiful paradox.
40 million babies lost to Gods great orphanage,It's a modern day genocide and a modern day disgraceIf this is a human right then why aren't we free?The only freedom we have is in a man nailed to a tree.100 million faces, staring at the sky,Wondering if this HIV will ever pass us by.The devil stole the rain and hope trickles down the plug,But still my Chinese take away could pay for someone's drugs.
Our God reigns, Our God reigns, Forever your kingdom reigns.
The west has found a gun and it's loaded with 'unsure'Nip and tuck if you have the bucks in a race to find a cure.Psalm one hundred and thirty nine is the conscience to our selfish crime,God didn't screw up when he made you,He's a father who loves to parade you.
Yes he reigns, yes you reign, yes you reign, For there is only one true God,
But we've lost the reins on this world,Forgive us all, forgive us please,As we fight for this broken world on our knees.
Written by Delirious? ©2005 Curious? Music UK
Rick Warren has a blog
Friday, July 14, 2006 {0 comments}
Here is the link includes some info and pictures of his time at Hillsong.
I took this photo from my 'cheap seat' on the side of the stage. Rick was dressed very casually, no ritz, no white suit, just the simple bu powerful word of God, spoken by a man who is as far as I can discern, a humble speaker and gifted by God.
Back in blogland
Been down south, Margaret River, Augusta, Cowarump (!)
Beautiful places, even during the colder months.
Melinda had organised a log cabin, right in the bush, which Clem and Ruby loved. Roasted marshmallows, red wine, slow roasted beef, long walks in the bush, lazy drives to the Margaret River Chocolate factory, games with the kids, expeditions down the Lake Cave in Augusta.
West Australia is a beautiful place, but back to work today.
Dockers and 720 ABC on a crackling radio
Friday, July 07, 2006 {2 comments}
Stuck in Sydney on a Friday night?
Want to watch the AFL Friday Night footy?
Good luck.
Guess what time the game is on? 5am Saturday Morning. Unbelievable.
Stupid channel nine. If they dont want to show the game at a reasonable time, let Foxtel take it. That way I could go down to the local pub, find a small tv away from the big screen NRL playing, and watch by beloved Dockers.
Listening to Wally (in name and nature) calling the game is just not the same.
Hillsong Conference Friday 2006 Filled up, but sad to leave
Heading home tommorow after picking up some more presents for my beautiful wife and children. Having a understanding wife, who is willing to let me go for the week, and is such a competant mum really helps.
Reinhold Bonke 9.30am "How we make God visible"
Bonke spoke using various bible passages (Is 6, Mark 16, Exodus 14) on how God is made visible, despite being invisible. Obviously it is because we are to make Him visible. Bonke encouraged us to be like the disciple Peter who had to call out to Jesus, and then get out of the boat to walk on water.
Peter challenged Jesus, "can I come?"
The focus of the miracle was on the faith of Peter (despite his subsequent doubt)
In other words we are to understand that we have a responsibility to show Jesus and His power, it is through us He chooses to work.
Franklin Jentzen ""The seventh sneeze"
Have a guess where this sermon title comes from? Seriously, where in the Bible does it mention someone sneezing seven times?
Look up 2 Kings 4.32
This was the best sermons I have heard Franklin preach. Wonderful, insightful message on handling pressure and the contrast between the flesh and the spirit. He talked about how the sneeze is an involuntary expulsion of something unwanted. The boy came alive after sneezing seven times.
Franklin then went into the New Testament and then proceeded to give a wonderful overview of the difficulties, the hindrances, the early church faced. It was so interesting. Normally we hear how victorious and overcoming the early church was, but Franklin showed us how in fact there were 7 (at least) times the church was hindered.
Here are only some of the key ones....
Acts 5 Greed
Acts 6 "There arose a murmuring"
Acts 8 Fear
Acts 10 Racial predjuice
Franklin is such a passionate preacher, try to resist getting swept up into his message if you can! I could not. This was a moving and challenging message.
Bayliss Connor
Houston had his customary sore throat. (I have been coming for 6 years now, and he always gets a sore throat). Bobbie was not his fill in preacher (as she often is) but he called upon Baylis to preach.
He spoke on 2 Corinthians 6, Ps 119 and Is 54
His basic message was covered by Bruce Wilkinson in the prayer of Jabez, which Bayliss referenced and mentioned.
He called us to have a willingness to deal with manure (!), which provided perhaps a more balanced view than Wilkinson gave us.
It was a really encouraging message because he talked about the incredible difficulties his church has had in its relocation process. The council took them to court and they had incredible legal bills which were necesary because of some legal issue where the council try to take the property and do not need to give any compensation. The process of relocation was explained and was a four year process. With some churches only telling part of the story, it was great to hear the difficulties faced by this church.
One another incidental quote he gave was a beauty.
"God had a family before He had a church"
Yes, and important to remember what is most important.
Home and back to reality tommorow. Really refreshed and looking forward to preaching some of this stuff.
Franklin then
Hillsong Conference Thursday 2006
Thursday, July 06, 2006 {2 comments}
I started off today with a Gloria Jeans coffee. Its not the best coffee in the world, and not my favourite, but there is one right near our motel and grabbing one for the train ride to Accer Stadium is great on these cold Sydney mornings. With not much sleep happening, its also probably necessary.
Bill Hybels
Here is the 'big idea from Bill.
"What cant you stand? What brings tears to your eyes, what rises up a holy discontent within your spirit" This may be the area you should minister in. '
Another excellent and convicting message from a man who God has been seriously dealing with in the last few years.
Frank Damazio
Frank is perhaps a lesser known speaker to some of the others, but has a comprehensive book out on leadership. He is certainly on the more charismatic side of the church, which is fine by me, and challenged us to embrace the more spiritual side of leadership.
He said that spiritual leadership requires spiritual transformation.
Every idea needs anointing, needs spiritual empowerment.
Frank spent some time towards the end in 'ministry' by which he means praying for Pastors. It was a great time.
In his second session he said sometimes trials remind us of how there are times we cannot do anything but increase our faith and hope in God. Sometimes the trial is severe and we need to make a choice, to be bitter, or to grow in faith.
Frank also gave a stack of indicators of únbroken'leaders, 14 in fact.
One of the main indicators of an unknown leader is that they, "use manipulation to further their own agenda".
Reinholt Bonke spoke in the evening session and was his typical energetic, passionate and clear self. He used the parable of the talents to challenge us to be faithful over the little.
Another interesting aside, when asked by a TV reporter what he thought of women in ministry he replied, ïf I was drowing, I would not care if I was saved from death by a man or a woman"
Tiring yet inspiring day today.
I have spent a lot of time tonight in prayer and intercession for some men connected with our church. I pray God will continue to challenge me and refine me.
This has been a wonderful time of impartation, refreshment and renewal for me.
One more day to go!
Hillsong Conference Wednesday 2006 Let's smash some stereotypes and misconceptions
Wednesday, July 05, 2006 {4 comments}
Today was another great great day at Hillsong 2006 for me.
Brian Houston kicked it off with a message from Ex 18 on the need to "be one of a few"
1. Leadership is proven when we are able in the practical issues
2. Fear God, not man
3. Be able to see past the small matters, being annoyed or frustrated at people will only hinder you
4. Do not get sucked into anger about small things (Tit 3.5)
Bill Hybels 2nd session
Awesome! What a wise man. He talked about
1. Keeping the vision clear
2. Get the people engaged
3. Make your gatherings memorable
4. Pace yourself for the long haul
Charlotte Scanlon Gamblin
Charlotte is the daughter of well known Pastor Paul Scanlon from Abundant Life Fellowship
She talked about identity theft, using the story of Jacob, who became Israel. It was interesting, touching and helpful.
I went to the 4.30 and 7.30 sessions.
Bill Hybels 4.30 session
Bill shattered misconceptions some may have in this talk.
It was great. He was quite prophetic and said he was worried that while many churches were growing, they were not focused on evangelism. He told three stories of how he has led people to the Lord. His neighbour, a tattooed guy and a black man who was the victim of racism. It was excellent to hear him talk about the priority of relationships, friendships and personal love in leading people to Christ. He did not mention big services, seeker friendly sundays or anything like that. He said that stuff was needed, but was secondary to Christians reaching out themself. Bill also talked about the priority of listening to the Spirit's prompting in leading you to people who are open to God, seizing the divine opportunity.
Franklin Jentzen 7.45pm
Franklin is a very energetic and passionate preacher. He talked about the need to be balanced, and accept that we will always have Christians with different views on a whole raft of issues. He also talked about meeting with God in a covenantal relationship.
It was a very pumped up session.
Must go to Darlene and Martin Smith (Delirious) who combined to do a duet of U2's "One". It was awesome. They did a great rendition and it was fantastic to hear U2 recognised for the passionate Christians they are.
Hillsong Conference Tuesday 2006
Today was an awesome day for me.
God had some things to sort out in my spirit, a few strategically placed swift kicks.
Rick Warren kicked off the day with a rehash of the first four chapters of the "Purpose Driven Life" However I dont mean that in a disaparaging way. It was great to hear it from him, hear his heart and passion. Such simple principles, yet in their genius is found their simplicity. I think Rick has mastered the fundamantals of what it means to be a Christian in a way few before have been able to articulate. I was speaking to one of the translators (for the deaf) and they commented that he is a very clear and articulate speaker.
Next up was Brian Houston, and he spoke on being a leader of a small group of people, and the importance of every type of leader to the kingdom of God. It was a great message.
Thirdly we heard from Rick Goodwin, who also spoke in the evening. Rick was probably the most direct and convicting speaker so far. He spoke from Is 6 and said something which really resonated with me. He said, "its very easy to identify the problems, a potplant can do that. It is a lot harder to come up with solutions. So much of what we hear, particular on the internet, is problems people have with organisations, their own church etc. So what if you can identify problems, what good does that do. Value to the kingdom, and to Jesus is found in solving problems, seeing the Kingdom of Jesus grow."
Rick talked about the value of imparting authority to your leaders, making sure they were allowed to use their own intitve, in fact demanding this of them. Not moddle coddling people, but showing them respect. He talked about the important of principle over policy. In other words do what is right, not what the constitution says.
He also spoke at night, and was good. He talked about being the salt of the earth. At the end he had arranged for us all to be handed a mc donalds salt sachet and asked us to take it, and in two or three days, spill the salt out and pray about how God wants to use us as salt in the earth. I am going to do a similar thing at Bedford.
But I am saving the best for last,
I love this band anyway, but to hear them live was just so good.
The sense of God in the place was incredible, and I found myself crying tears of joy, conviction, peace and ...... just plain joy at sensing God moving and speaking to me.
About three or four hours later, I am rejoicing at some conviction and renewed purpose God has put in my heart. He was able to speak to me, in the middle of a loud rock music concert. He spoke to my heart.
Can't wait! This is only really day one. Praise God and thank you God I can be here.
Monday Night Special Rick Warren
Monday, July 03, 2006 {2 comments}
Rick spoke from Exodus Three where Moses approached the burning bush and God asked him some key questions. Of course God knew the answers, it was for Moses'benefit.
His question was, "what do you have in your hand" The answer of course was the staff, which represented his identity, as a shepherd.
Ricks'application was that we are to accept God's agenda for our lives, give up who we are to advance his kingdom. Rick's definition of The Kingdom of God is wherever Jesus rules, thats where the Kingdom is.
He talked, humbly, about the social and justice work him and his wife have been involved in, particularly amongst aids sufferers.
Rick has brought a humble, credible and prophetic voice to this conference. It was a moving and personally challenging time for me.
Ps 72, Exodus 3 and 1 Cor 9
Karyn Wrights Husband Preaching at Bedford
Sunday, July 02, 2006 {6 comments}
That's right, come on down next week, while I am away..............
Its funny how we associate the known with the unknown. (Karyn is the known, her husband is still a relatively unknown)
Hopefully when I get back the church has not fallen apart and the members have not left in a state of dislusionment. :)
Actually I think he and the church will really enjoy it. From what I know of Karyn's husband he is a great communicator, biblically solid, relevant and I have it on good authority that he 'preaches from the heart'.
Praying for Karyn's husband and the church.
Hillsong Conference 2006 Part One
Packing suitcase, leaving tonight.
Cant wait,
should have internet access over there, will post about it right here.
If we lose next week against Essendon....
Saturday, July 01, 2006 {1 comments}
If we lose next week against Essendon, this season is gone, and Chris might as well try and find another club, because he wont be our coach in 2007.
Actually I've got to think that our season is probably gone already.
I hope they suprise me, but they are failing to play as a team.
Without Pavlich and Josh Carr, we would be sunk.
Haselby looks out of sorts, Farmer is out of form, and needs to be dropped.
Marcus Drum (pictured) made his debut, and sounds like he went alright, and Johnson was excellent, keeping Barry Hall to one goal only.
I have always been a big Chris fan, but I am sorry, I am starting to lose faith in him, because I think the players have. We actually have a very good list. What is the answer? I dont know.
9 games to go, and we will see what happens. Lets hope we can do something.
Money changers and Jesus gets mad, really mad
Jesus entered the temple area and drove out all who were buying and selling
there. He overturned the tables of the money changers and the benches of those
selling doves. "It is written," he said to them, " 'My house will be called a
house of prayer,' but you are making it a 'den of robbers.
In my view, the money changers made Jesus mad for two reasons. They were taking up space which was meant to be for the God'seekers, those non Jewish folk wanting to worship God in the outer part of the temple. They were selling doves and other things for sacrifices at exhorbitant prices. While what they were actually doing was okay, the way they were doing it was wrong.
I put this forward because so many churches and Christian individuals are flogging their products nowadays. Maybe we need to be careful what we buy, and what ministries we support based on these two questions.
1. Does it help non Christians to come to Christ, or does it turn them away?
2. Is it a fair price for a product, or is it exhorbitant?
Watching the Saints take apart the Hawks, but...
Reivoldt is one of the most frustrating players in the AFL. Great in his endevour, marking, leading, pack work.
Terribly inconsistent in his kicking accuracy.


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Are you a US-based cloud provider and are yet to comply with the EU's General Data Protection Regulation?
You need to abide by this new directive to avoid hefty fines and penalties.
But your company is based in the US, why should you comply with a European Union law?
Well, most business owners think that they don't need to worry about the GDPR because their companies are based in the United States. But the truth is that the GDPR applies to every company that does business with the EU or the European Economic Area (EEA).
In this piece, we'll look at what you need to know about GDPR compliance for US companies. But before that, let's explain what GDPR is.
What's the GDPR?
The General Data Protection Regulation is a new EU legislation that seeks to regulate data collection and security of personal information of the EU and EEA citizens.
Simply put, GDPR is a law that seeks to control how organizations collect, store, process, and use EU or EEA data.
The law was adopted on 14th April 2016 and came into force on 25th May 2018.
Under this new legislation, organizations cannot collect, store, manage, or use personal information of an EU resident or citizen without their consent. The law enshrines certain rights which data subjects have to their information, including:
- Consenting to the collection, storage, and processing of personal information on a case by case basis
- Knowing why, where, and how their data is being processed and used
- Ability to opt out of data collection, storage, or processing at any time
- The right to have data held by a company changed to reflect the actual condition
- The right to copy or move personal data from one source to another (data portability)
- The right to have information deleted entirely
The personal information in question includes names, email addresses, photographs, birth-dates, medical data, phone numbers, and any other information that you can use directly or indirectly to identify the data subject.
GDPR Compliance for US Companies
The GDPR is applicable in the EU and EAA, of course, but it also affects foreign companies that deal with or process sensitive data from EU or EAA subjects–which includes customers, end users, and employees.
This means that US companies that do business in Europe are affected by the new EU law.
Are US-Based Firms Without EU Ties Exempted from This Law?
Even if your company has no direct EU operations, you still need to comply with the EU directive.
First, the GDPR compliance will make it easy for you to do business with US-based firms that have ties with the EU. Compliance will also incorporate self-governance into the company and reduce regular interventions by the enforcing authority.
Potential clients will also trust your company more, and this will make them more willing to share their personal information with your company.
Abiding by the GDPR will also make it easy for your company to expand to Europe and other regions that are affected by the EU law
The Specific Rules a US-Based Cloud Provider Must Follow
Cloud-service companies should be among the first companies to comply with the GDPR.
To be GDPR compliant, a cloud provider must follow the following rules:
- Invest in a system that allows data subjects to see and even delete information that concerns them when necessary.
- Report data breaches that pose a risk to customers to the relevant data privacy supervisory authority within 72 hours
- Make data policies clear and easy to read and understand
- Comply with the "privacy by design" principles
Besides, since your cloud service company handles sensitive data on and monitors data subjects systematically on a large scale or has more than 250 employees, you'll also be required to hire or outsource a data protection officer (DPO).
According to Article 29 Working Party (WP29), a DPO will play the following roles:
- Educate firms and employees about the new EU law and the protection of personal information.
- Help firms to address data protection problems proactively
- Train employees involved in collecting and processing Personally Identifiable Information (PII)
- Act as the contact point for the firm and the European Union's data privacy supervisory authority
The DPO should also inform the customers how your firm is using their personal information and the security measures put in place to protect it. The officer manages all processes and records related to data collection and processing.
What Happens If a US-Based Company Doesn't Comply with the GDPR?
According to the EU, non-compliance could lead to penalties or fines of up to 20 million euros. Some violations could also result in criminal charges that could lead to a jail term.
The EU is unlikely to start imposing these fines and penalties right away. Why?
Well, the interpretation of the new EU law is still vague, and this makes it hard for most organizations to know for sure if they comply.
The EU is more likely to go slow at first and focus on large corporations, but you shouldn't take chances.
Tips to Stay on the Safe Side?
Here are some tips that can help US-based cloud providers prepare for GDPR compliance:
Understand the Law
The first step to compliance is to understand what the General Data Protection Regulation is all about and how it affects your company. This way, you can implement the necessary changes with confidence.
Audit Data
US companies also need to learn more about the data they have: who collects it, where it's located, who can access it, and how much personal information they have.
Auditing data will help the US cloud providers come up with reliable systems that will keep a lid on sensitive data.
Give Customers Control
US companies should introduce new policies and regulations that make customers feel that they're in control of their data.
These companies should also introduce new systems that allow data subjects to define they can use the data they collect.
Commitment to the GDPR Compliance
US company owners should not let the DPO and the compliance department do all the work.
Everyone in their organization should be aware of the implications of the EU law. This will make the compliance process smooth.
Wrapping Up
The General Data Protection Regulation will affect all organizations, corporations, public authorities and individuals that do business with the EU. Therefore, you should ensure your cloud-service company is GDPR compliant.
Our comprehensive guide and essential tips on GDPR compliance for US companies will certainly make the process easy and successful.
Feel free to contact us if you have any questions or are in need of GDPR consulting.


text:
I'm off work sick today. It really hit me yesterday, I was feeling so crappy last night, and today is sort of on par, but I get the sense I'm getting better. Although this does give me the opportunity to catch up on some feeds that I haven't looked at in a bit.
I seem to be sneezing a lot, and have runny nose, and a headache, and blocked sinuses. I put getting sick down to my last couple of weeks of drinking a lot, not eating well and not sleeping much. I think being generally run down has taken its toll on my immunity, and now I'm paying the price.
I wonder if I'll ever learn.


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This page introduces my preferred approach to resolving circular references using a concept that I call the parallel model. This parallel model concept is one of the most important ideas on this website both in terms of theory and practical implementation in real models. The general idea of the parallel model is to do at least four things. First, you can get around the limitations of excel in terms circular reference problems. Second, it is an auditing tool that allows you to verify project calculations by summarising data with a set of consistent inputs and outputs. Third, management can see results from alternative models in a clear and consistent format. Last and not least, without adding a lot of programming to your model, you can quickly test alternative strategies like re-financing, adding mezzanine debt, changing approaches the DSRA treatment in the sculpting, adding a balloon payment structure, including EBL and shareholder debt financing, sculpting debt with multiple issues, constraining sculpting with the average debt life and other subjects.
The parallel model process involves opening a template sheet and linking a few variables from your model and running a second model in parallel (the linking process should only take a few minutes). The idea of the parallel model is that you can make the calculations in your own project finance model in whatever structure you want. Then you go to your model and find things like interest rates, EBITDA, model flags. These things are put into the parallel model as inputs to the UDF. Finally, you link variables from the parallel model page to items like interest during construction, CFADS and funding needs that are often fixed from copy and paste macros.
History of the Parallel Model Concept
I hope that by browsing through the history that made me arrive at this parallel modelling concept you can understand why I think it is such an important idea for the project finance modelling community. The time line below illustrates some of key events that have led to the UDF method. The timeline demonstrates that many different factors had to be put together to enable this method to be used in an efficient and realistic manner in your models. I did not put in the timeline dates because I of course don't remember them. But this is not a project that has taken a few months or even a year. I think I must have started this model around the financial crisis in 2008.
Concerns about Circular References
I have been teaching classes in project finance modelling since 1997 (my classes back then were not too good). In preparing for classes, I used to give out a pre-course questionnaire where I asked what students wanted me to focus on. For example, I would ask if participants wanted to create models from A-Z models or whether they wanted to deal with more advanced issues like circular references (illustrated below). A few people asked how to avoid impossible to understand macros for circular references and how to avoid using the iteration button in excel.
I was arrogant and I thought that I could find a better method than the copy and paste method or the very dangerous (geferlish) iteration button. I had a disastrous class using the iteration button with #VALUE!'s and #REF's that I could not get rid of and decided never to use the iteration button again. I remember whenever we tried to add a scenario analysis or anything a little different the whole model crashed and then we had to start over. I had a lot of nightmares about this and I still get very nervous with the dreaded blue lines.
Initial Efforts to Solve Circular References with Mathematical Formulas and Backwardation
I began to try to solve the problem after reading the comments from my students and my disastrous. First I tried to find mathematical equations that could solve the problem that can be used in corporate modelling and simple things like contingency fees. For things like a contingency payment that is a percent of the cost of the project including the fee is a very simple example of this. But when solving things like IDC, these equations became very long as shown in the excerpt that I still have in the resource library.
I remember trying to solve the commitment fee problem while riding on my brother's boat on the Amazon (his website) and it was impossible for me. I gave up on the mathematical equations and decided that I had wasted a lot of time. Then I tried a method where you can find equations for the closing balance and then back into the opening balance that some people call backwardation. This method seemed promising at first and then quickly became impossible. Maybe it was best to just use the copy and paste method.
Big Moment of UDF Discovery for Solving Circular References
You have heard stories about remembering exactly you were when big events happen. I remember that I was going to take an accounting exam in a little farm town when I heard about the killing of John Lennon. I remember the hotel were I was when I saw the Fukushima tsunami and I also remember in what hotel I was staying at when I heard the depressing news about Brexit and Donald Trump's election.
When I was working on a dynamic goal seek where you make a UDF function that automatically computes the goal seek without pressing any menu items, I tried a similar technique for a simple circular reference. And it worked. This was a really big moment in my old age. I remember exactly what couch I was sitting on when the UDF technique with a little iteration button worked. Then I took a shower while I was shaking with excitement. I then tried it with more and more complex applications that included for next loops. And, the UDF method still worked. I dropped the other methods involving mathematical equations and started working on real applications.
Implementing UDF in Project Finance Models
To implement the UDF technique, you have to work backwards across all of the dreaded blue lines in the circular reference. You start by making an equation for the item that causes the circular reference and then add more and more equations. With this you can solve circular references that for example come from IDC that also affect depreciation and therefore taxes and therefore CFADS and therefore sculpting which then affects debt and IDC itself. There can be a lot if inputs and equations for solving the circular reference and you must input them all.
I demonstrated with quite a few models that it is totally possible to do this. But the required inputs and the equations can be difficult as shown in the adjacent screenshot. You can see the inputs that you have to put into your user defined function. These are a lot more inputs than you would have to put in any function in excel. I moan a lot about long formulas being non-transparent. I was a hypocrite to suggest that you would every realistically do this (except Hedieh who did make models like this). If you have to re-write these equations each time you make a model, it is frankly not very realistic.
UDF's and Advanced Project Finance Issues
These days some of my clients are not very interested in boring old blah blah blah about quickly making a model and computing the IRR's, DSCR's, LLCR's etc. Instead they are interested in things like what is the effect on the investor and the lender from balloon payments, inclusion of changes in the DSRA on sculpting, how to evaluate strategies when there is both a debt to capital constraint and a DSCR construction, how to sculpt multiple debt issues, what is the effect of re-financing and these kind of more advanced issues.
I have included a screenshot of the place where you can find some of the advanced issues on this website. When creating exercises for these models such as for balloon payments or analysis of putting changes in the DSRA in CFADS or debt service, there are a lot of circular references. The UDF technique worked well as a way to make the models flexible (with spinner boxes etc.) and with goal seeks and with simple data tables. So, even if the UDF function was not too realistic in big models, the UDF discovery for me was not a complete waste of time.
Meeting with Hedieh and Template Concept
I tried to be realistic realistic about the prospects for this UDF stuff. I touted the method in videos and I demonstrated the approach in my classes. But nobody seemed very interested. I was a bit depressed but I just think about Churchill's saying that success is going from one failure to another without lack of enthusiasm. There was one person who was still interested in the concept — Hedieh Kanfard.
She suggested a meeting in Istanbul and worked on the models. We were able to implement part of the concept for the funding circular references in a real model that she was working on. She was even able to copy the code into other models she created and it still worked. She suggested making a template UDF that could be applied in alternative situations. At first I thought about how I do not like template models (I tried them in the past). Then I reluctantly told Hedieh that I would try to make a template UDF.
Hedieh later introduced me to Danny and Kenny who I could tell did not believe the concept. They told me they were trying to develop innovative new project finance modelling methods.
Reading Data from Tables and Making the UDF Concept Manageable
When I started working on the template model suggested by Hedieh I ran into a problem. To make a flexible template you would need to read in a whole lot of different variables and to make it usable, the method would have to deal with many different options including multiple debt issues and therefore be able to read in many variables. But there is a limitation for UDF functions involving the number of variables that can be read in — only 128 characters.
This limitation made it virtually impossible to make a usable template. Then, when sitting at a cafe, I googled the limitation and found someone who suggested using a table for reading in data. This changed everything. Reading a table into a UDF was painful to develop but I think it can make the parallel model realistic to use. I wish I could thank the man who made the suggestion on google.
Structuring a Flexible and Comprehensive Parallel Model
Once the process to easily read information into the UDF was solved, I worked for a long time creating a comprehensive template model that . The UDF can output anything you calculate and this output can be structured consistent with they way project finance models should work. The outputs can work all the way through a model to the equity IRR after EBL, shareholder loans and re-financing. This allows you to verify your model. But more importantly, you can try a whole bunch of advanced things like balloon repayments, multiple re-financing, DSRA moves in CFADS, using a letter of credit in lieu of a funded DSRA, multiple sculpting, mezzanine debt, EBL's alternative debt sizing and other things without re-doing your model. In terms of verifying your model, at first when I checked the differences between the UDF model and my excel models, many of the mistakes were in the UDF model. But after working very hard and making my mistakes, the parallel model can find mistakes in your model now. That's why I am arrogantly claiming that this concept represents the future of modelling.
Video Demonstration of Parallel Model (with Beetoven's 9th)
The video below illustrates how you can implement the parallel model concept in your model in a couple of minutes. I have not made you listen my voice while you see how it works. Instead, you can listen to Beetoven's Ode to Joy. In subsequent pages you can see how this concept works in a whole bunch of different models and advanced project finance concepts.
Explanation of Parallel Model Features in Associated Web Pages
When I first developed some UDF's I made the UDF's with really long lists of inputs that were painful to implement. But the process worked. Then I met with my friend Hedieh and she told me to make a template model. My first reaction was that template models really suck. But then I realised that she was absolutely right. I have tried to convince you that the parallel model/UDF concept is realistic to implement and can be applied to many different circumstances in the web pages associated with this section. My goal is to make you interested enough in the concept to become motivated to be a really advanced and efficient modeller. So here is a demonstration of how easy the process is to make.
First, with your financial model open, open the first file below that you can download by clicking on the box. This file contains the UDF code for making a parallel model. Once you have opened the file, copy the code to your model (in English you can use the ALT, E, M short-cut) and click the button for creating a copy.
Add-in File that Includes UDF for Making a Parallel Model and Resolving Circular References in a Project Finance Model
To illustrate how this process works, I have included a second file that is a very simple project finance model. As usual, the simplest model is a solar model (although I seen amazingly long and absurd models for simple projects – an impeachable crime). The file that I will use in the example is available for download by clicking on the button below.
Basic Project Finance Model that is Solution to the Case Study and Used for Illustrating Parallel Model
- The first exercise with the parallel model involves working with simple annual model with a one period construction duration. This case is used to demonstrate that the parallel model can be applied for case with no circular reference or a case with circular references only for DSRA and fees. In this case, the model is annual model.
- The second exercise with the parallel model involves working with multiple debt issues in the context of a simple model. In this exercise, the parallel model is attached with multiple debt issues in alternative sculpting scenarios. In the first case there is no sculpting. In the second case there is one sculpted issue and multiple non-sculpted issues.
- The third exercise using the parallel model addresses re-financing. Re-financing can be tricky if taxes are combined with sculpting to determine the amount of debt that can be supported at alternative assumed repayment dates.
- The fourth exercise using the parallel model addresses various more complex issues including periodic construction on a monthly basis, semi-annual operations, an EBL, withholding taxes, tax timing, alternative depreciation for financing costs, multiple debt issues with sculpting and other factors.
Overview of Step by Step Process for Applying the Circular Reference Template
To make the process work, you just follow the few steps below:
Step 1: Copy the template sheet into a new sheet of your model. The template has the required inputs that go into the UDF (most of which can be left blank or unchanged) and outputs generated from the UDF. After you have opened both of the models, the first step of copying the parallel model to your project finance model and using the copy check box is illustrated in the first screenshot.
Step 2: Copy the UDF functions related to the parallel model into your model. First go to the copy macro button in the parallel mode (not your model) and the press the copy macro button. After pressing the button, the VBA code will appear in a box. Go to the box an press CNTL A first and then CNTL C. This is illustrated in the first screenshot below. After pressing CNTL A and CNTL C, you should exit the screen so you can paste the code. To do this press the x or the close button on the screen.
Step 3: Once you have copied the code, go back to your model. Find the VBA page with the functions and then copy the functions to a VBA page in your file. Then type any name for a macro in the box shown below. This could be something like TEST or COPYPASTESUCKS. Then, delete anything that excel puts there and make sure you paste the VBA code to the top of the page. More specifically, the OPTION BASE 1 should be at the top of the page. The two screenshots below illustrate the process of copying the UDF from the parallel model to your model.
Step 4: Make a timeline in the new page of your model that contains the UDF. The timeline should include switches for the development, construction and operation period. The periods in the time line (e.g. months during construction) should be consistent with interest calculations in the base model.
Step 4: Go to the input section of the UDF and find the required inputs such as periodic interest rates, EBITDA and DSRA requirements. These inputs should be lined from the financial model. (It is possible that you may have to make a couple of calculations in your model to compute things like effective interest rates on different debt tranches).
Step 5: Enter the function and use the SHIFT, CNTL, ENTER sequence
Step 6: Link various circular references from your model such as funding needs, CFADS, and DSRA to the parallel model
To illustrate how the circular reference model works in general, I have presented a short discussion of the inputs and outputs below along with a discussion of how to
Inputs to the Circular Reference Parallel Model
Inputs to the parallel model are shown in the screenshot below. Most of these inputs could be left alone at the default values.
The second set of inputs shows how to get data into the parallel model.
Model Outputs
Model outputs created by the parallel model are shown below. To produce this output page you use the SHIFT, CNTL, ENTER sequence after you enter the function arguments.
You may ask, if it is so good why in the hell would I put this stuff on the website for free when the method is a radical change in the way project finance models work. (Sorry about the arrogance). You can make your complex model, but resolve all of the circular references.
So, here is my marketing concept. If I do not publish the method it will not get any traction and nobody will use the idea. But I also think that if you really want to use the method you need an intensive course that explains how the general concept works; how to create UDF programs for sculpting and tax issues; how to read the template UDF; and, most importantly, how to modify the UDF for your particular circumstance.
Problems with Copy and Paste


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Foundation Apprenticeships
Going into S5 or S6? A Foundation Apprenticeship (FA) could be a good option for you.
No matter whether you're thinking about going to college or university, considering a Modern or Graduate Apprenticeship, or want to go straight to work, a Foundation Apprenticeship can help you get there.
A Foundation Apprenticeship:
- Is at the same level as a Higher. You choose it as one of your S5 or S6 subjects and work towards a qualification over one or two years. You develop skills as you learn and there's no final exam*
- Gives you the chance to find out what working life is really like. You'll get workplace experience and spend some time learning at college too
- Is available in a range of industries with jobs in demand, including, food science, finance
There's still time to apply. Find out what's available in your school and apply online on Apprenticeships.scot.
*Accountancy includes an exam as part of the Foundation Apprenticeship
Modern Apprenticeships
Have you thought about a Modern Apprenticeship (MA)?
An MA is a great way to earn while you learn and you'll get an industry recognised qualification too.
There are over 80 types of MA and they cover lots of different jobs and industries including engineering, construction and jobs in ICT.
You can apply for vacancies on Apprenticeships.scot.
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With a GA you'll be an employee – similar to a Modern Apprenticeship. But you'll be spending some of your time at university, working towards a degree. And earning a wage at the same time.
Graduate Apprenticeships are still growing, find out what opportunities are available.
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Getting a job
You might want to go straight into work. We can help you search for jobs and give you advice on how to apply.
Taking a gap year
A year out can give you time to think about what you want to do next. You may decide to travel, get some work experience, volunteer or even try a short course.


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An Influencer's reach is a measure of the number of people who follow any given social media account. Tap gathers this data by making an API calls twice a month to the social media site requesting that data. Since we cannot grab the data in real time, sometimes there is a slight delay in any updates to the reach count.
Additionally, in order to make these requests, the Influencer has to give Tap permission to gather this data. This permission is stored in something called an OAuth Token. Occasionally this Token may become invalid or expired, and when this happens we are unable to update the reach count for that Influencer. In order to start being able to gather that reach data again, the Influencer will need to Re-Authenticate their social media account with the platform. Here is a link you may send to an Influencer to assist them with Re-authenticating their social media accounts. As for blog reach, we no longer leverage Google Analytics and reach does not update over time. As we are sunsetting our platform by the end of 2019, we have no immediate plans to improve blog reach statistics.


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