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Moustapha al-Akkad - Sharing the Prophet in name and in filmEvery life lost to terror is precious. Whether it be Sydney footballers or an anonymous London travellers, terror always claims innocent victims. But one recent terrorist incident should have really shaken the few Muslim left who only reluctantly condemn the terrorists.
Moustapha al-Akkad was no small fish in Hollywood. He was executive producer of the successful Halloween series of movies, from which he made millions. Halloween was released in 1978, and has regularly featured in lists of all-time great horror movies. The film had 7 sequels, the most recent of which was released in 2002.
Akkad was an American national. He had decided to move to Lebanon, taking advantage of the Mediterranean surrounds and the relative peace following decades of civil war and occupation. He was in Amman with his family to attend a wedding.
Akkad was born in the city of Aleppo in Syria, a Muslim town which provided shelter to thousands of Armenian refugees fleeing persecution during the last days of the Ottoman Empire. He moved to the United States at 18 years, and is said to have had only $200 and a Qur'an in his pocket when he arrived in Los Angeles.
Akkad studied film at UCLA, graduating in 1958. He completed his Masters from the University of Southern California where he focussed his attention on documentary making. Akkad went onto make documentaries for CBS across the world.
Despite being held captive to the American dream, Akkad never forgot his roots to his Syrian homeland or his Islamic faith. He used his directing skills to produce two movies regarded as classics across the Muslim World.
In 1976, Akkad produced and directed "The Message", a film about the life of the Prophet Muhammad. He gathered actors of the calibre of Anthony Quinn, who played the Prophet's uncle Hamza. Quinn also played the lead role in Akkad's 1981 film "Lion of the Desert", which portrayed the life and death of Libyan anti-colonial fighter Omar al-Mukhtar.
In a 1977 interview about "The Message", Akkad described his reasons for making the film and his vision of his Islamic faith.
"I did the film because it is a personal thing for me. Besides its production values as a film, it has its story, its intrigue, its drama. Beside all this I think there was something personal; being a Muslim myself who lived in the West, I felt that it was my obligation, my duty to tell the truth about Islam. It is a religion that has a 700 million following, yet it's so little known about, which surprised me. I thought I should tell the story that will bring this bridge, this gap to the West."
Akkad's vision of Islam was as a faith which built bridges between hearts and civilisations. Like most Muslims, Akkad wanted to use his faith to be a source of peace, not conflict. The only terror (if one could call it that) Akkad wanted people to experience was from his horror movies.
Akkad was attending a wedding in Amman, Jordan when terrorists struck. He was standing outside the hotel where the wedding was being held. His 34 year old daughter, Rima Akkad Monla, was inside the hotel and was amongst those instantly killed in the blast. Akkad was severely injured and died in hospital on Friday.
Across the Arab world and the United States, tributes have been pouring in on this proud son of Aleppo. The Daily Star of Beirut, Akkad's adopted city, writes:
"Remembered by his friends and family here as a humble man whose words spoke volumes, he lived life to the fullest always loving the art of filmmaking and never stopped in his pursuit of bringing a true and peaceful image of Islam to the West. It is the most tragic of ironies that he died a victim of fellow Muslims claiming to fight in the name of the religion he so loved."
Akkad was planning to produce a movie on medieval Kurdish general Salahuddin (known in the West as Saladin) who defeated the Crusaders and drove them out of Jerusalem. Firas al-Atraqchi from al-Jazeera writes on 13 November 2005:
"It was only two years ago that I sat across from him and his son Malek as he discussed the challenges he was facing in arranging financing for his new epic project – Salahuddin. Sitting comfortably in a leather chair in the lobby of the Grand Hyatt in Cairo, Egypt, with a pipe in his hand, Akkad described his Salahuddin troubles as nearly synonymous to the challenges he faced when trying to put together a script for The Message – a film about the rise of Islam and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad."
Atraqchi goes onto describe the problems Akkad faced in trying to convince the fringe Wahhabi religious establishment of Saudi Arabia to approve the making of a film about the Prophet Muhammad. The Sunni scholars of al-Azhar and Shia authorities of Southern Lebanon had given their approval. Only the Wahhabis were holding back.
The same ideology held back Akkad from completing his Salahuddin project. The al-Qaida terrorist network, an offshoot of the Wahhabi cult, took responsibility for the Amman blasts which killed Akkad, his daughter and over 50 others.
In his book "The Great Theft – Wrestling Islam from the Extremists", UCLA Law Professor Khaled Abou el-Fadl laments how contemporary attention on Islam focuses on the actions of fringe groups such as Wahhabis and al-Qaida. The result, argues el-Fadl, is that "the most emphatic moral values taught by Islam … mercy, compassion, and peace" are readily ignored.
This struggle between the violent fringe and the moderate mainstream continues. It continues to claim victims of all faiths and no faith in particular. It has now claimed Moustapha al-Akkad, a man who devoted much of his creative talent and wealth to building bridges between Muslims and the rest of humanity. Muslims in Australia , New Zealand and across the Western world owe it to humanity to continue his legacy.
The author is a Sydney-based lawyer and occasional lecturer in the School of Politics at Macquarie University. firstname.lastname@example.com
© Irfan Yusuf 2005


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Leonardo da Vinci National Science & Technology Museum
Foucault's Pendulum © Sylvar
This remarkable museum is a popular tourist attraction and a fitting tribute to one of the world's greatest minds. Within the Leonardo Gallery of the museum is a collection of da Vinci's ingenious designs, detailing everything from plans for war machines to architectural visions. Applied physics is the focus of another room, in keeping with the museum's tribute to the history of science, and there are departments for energy, communication and transport as well. The museum is very well-organised and maintained, with a lot of interactive exhibits and scientific experiments to actively participate in. Activities are scheduled daily in the interactive science labs and the admission cost covers all these activities. Children will be enthralled and should learn a lot in this exciting and stimulating environment, experimenting with food, electricity and much more in carefully supervised activities. Adults will also enjoy the museum, particularly the section on da Vinci which is intriguing. There is a bar and a canteen at the museum, as well as a shop for souvenirs. If you are at all interested in science, or Leonardo da Vinci, or if you are travelling to Milan with kids, be sure to include a stop at the Leonardo da Vinci Museum of Science and Technology in your Milanese travel itinerary.
Address: Via San Vittore 21
Website: www.museoscienza.org
Telephone: +39 02 485 551
Opening times: Open Tuesday to Friday from 9.30am to 5pm. Open on holidays and weekends from 9.30am to 6.30pm
Admission: €10 (adults), €7.50 (concessions)

subset: commoncrawl


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A salaried employee is one who receives a predetermined amount each payday, rather than being paid at an hourly rate for actual hours worked. Some salaried employees are exempt from the overtime provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act. Others are non-exempt and their compensation is governed by a different set of rules.
Exempt and Non-Exempt Salaries
Typically a salary disbursement for a pay period is a proportion of an annual amount. For an employee to be considered exempt, the salary must be at least $23,600 per year or $455 per week. If your business pays some employees on a non-exempt salary basis, this restriction does not apply. However, non-exempt employees must receive a salary that works out to at least the federal hourly minimum wage, which was $7.25 per hour as of 2012. In addition, non-exempt employees must be paid time and one-half for hours they work over 40 in a single week.
Exempt Employees
When you pay an employee on an exempt salary basis, the employee receives full pay as long as she works at least some time during a pay period. On the other hand, she is not entitled to additional compensation for extra time worked, including overtime. Exempt employees can be required to use a time clock and to make up missed time. Employers may charge absences against leave time an exempt employee has accumulated. For an employee to be exempt, his job duties must meet specific requirements as executive, professional or administrative workers. Executive positions must be primarily supervisory. Professional positions include occupations such as doctors, engineers and lawyers. Administrative exempt employees perform primarily management-related, non-manual work.
Read More: The Labor Laws on Exempt Employees Who are Required to Work Over 40 Hours a Week
Non-Exempt Pay
For non-exempt workers, the employer must state the salary amount and the expected number of hours the employee will normally work. Expected hours are divided into the salary amount to arrive at a regular hourly wage, which is used if it is necessary to calculate and pay overtime. The FLSA does allow employers to reduce the salary of a non-exempt employee for missed work time. However, some state laws prohibit this practice.
Non-Exempt Overtime
Suppose a non-exempt worker is paid $480 per week and is expected to work 32 hours per week. Dividing the expected hours into the salary gives a regular rate of $15 per hour. An employer does not have to pay additional compensation if the employee happens to work 34 or 35 hours in a week. However, if the employee works 40 hours plus two hours overtime one week, the employer has to pay the $15 hourly rate for all 40 hours plus time and one-half for the two hours overtime. In this example, that brings the total pay to $645.


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Lagoona Blue™ Doll with Little Sister Doll!
Monster High™ family doll packs help bring the ghouls' home lives to life. The younger siblings of the Monster High™ ghouls aren't ready for Monster High™ high school yet, but they are ready for monster fun with their big sisters! Lagoona Blue™ doll is taking her little sister, Kelpie Blue™ doll, to the beach. Cool accessories for a sunny day include a pair of sunglasses for each daughter of a sea monster, a sea-inspired beach bag for each, a drink (with straw) and a sandwich they can share. Designed in a smaller scale (7 inches), Kelpie Blue™ doll makes a splash wearing a colorful striped swimsuit with decal, a sheer poofy skirt cover-up in a matching pink, teal flip-flops and a pink headband to keep back her blonde and blue curls. Lagoona Blue™ doll makes waves in a swimsuit with colorful print, orange trim and a sheer blue peplum; orange shoes are fintastic! Ghouls at home will love the opportunities to explore family bonding and learn to embrace what makes them unique along with their beast friends from Monster High™.
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This last vendor completes our twelve days of Christmas Market countdown…
Meet Marie Walker, a very talented vendor that has been with us a couple of months. Marie specializes in window pane art and wreaths. Both have been a hit with our customers.
Marie's wreaths are colorful and unique. Most all of her window pane art includes a quote or inspirational message. She likes to use starfish, oysters shells, burlap and other natural elements to bring life to her work.
Stop by and see if Marie has something that Santa might want to leave under the tree! She will be at our December 20th market from 9am until 5pm.
Just in case you have missed any of our posts….
Twelve….Marie Walker
Eleven….Elle T
Ten….Terry Eldridge
Nine….Shorely Worth It
Eight…Second on the Right
Seven…Dee Lee's Delights
Six…organic del mar handcrafted jewelry
Four…Uppity Women Antiques and Collectibles
Three..Mike Kinzie
Two…Charlie MacGrooders
One…Denah Designs (Clark)
We look forward to seeing you at Seaglass Salvage Market on December 20th from 9am until 5pm….If it's a unique gift you want….look no further!
The Girls at Seaglass Salvage Market


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By jolyeditor
Posted in Essay Writers
The basic item of contraction in their heart and soul is the cardiac myofibrils that happen to be specialised excitatory and conductive muscle fibres. Myofibrils have thick and thin filaments myosin and actin. These filaments lay the essay writerВ area by slip and end while in contraction like skeletal muscles groups. Intercalated tissues are mobile membranes that distinguish special cardiac muscle mass skin cells from one an extra. Cardiac body fibres are comprised of almost all microscopic cells attached in range and parallel collectively. Each and every intercalated disc the cell membranes fuse with the other person in order to create gap junctions that permit quick diffusion of ions. So with a useful perspective ions move in the intracellular solution around the cardiac muscle materials to ensure that measures possibilities go instantly from one cardiac muscle group to the next, beyond the intercalated discs.
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As a result cardiac muscular a syncytium of countless heart and soul cells wherein the microscopic cells are very linked that excitation of just one mobile phone rapidly propagates coming from every one of the skin cells. The contraction and rest of cardiac fibers is seen as a confusing physiological process that is observed as accelerated depolarization and polarization a result of immediate inflow and outflow of ions over the trans-membrane layer channel. In cardiac muscles motion capability is triggered by launching of two variety of routes, quickly sodium channels and time-consuming calcium supplements channels. Once the stations open both of them calcium and sodium ions flow from the cardiac muscular soluble fiber creating a continuous depolarization. The calcium mineral ions that get into with this routine activate muscle contractile whole process. Following your beginning of procedure full potential,the permeability of cardiac body membrane for potassium ions lowers which keeps motion opportunity from going back to sleeping tier. When slow calcium routes nearby influx of sodium and calcium mineral ceases, potassium permeability raises which brings membrane possibility to resting level and also this ends the steps full potential. The expression excitation contraction coupling signifies the device that causes behavior possible ways to induce contraction of myofibrils. In casual talk about, the end of actin filament increasing from two subsequent Z discs barely overlap one another.
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In contracted point out actin filaments have been pulled inward among the many myosin filaments so their stops overlap one other to max level and Z discs have already been pulled from the actin filaments up to the stops of myosin filaments, for this reason lean muscle contraction occurs by sliding filament device. Calcium supplement ions relate with troponin to commence cross connection development and contraction by activating myosin-ATPase. Most of the calcium supplements ions engaged in contraction are based on exracellular resource as cardiac muscles cell`s sarcoplasmic reticulum is badly acquired. Cardiac muscle group tissue are categorised into contractile microscopic cells and car rhythmic body cells. Autorhythmic cells make it possible to initiate contraction while not innervations. Contractile cells trigger contraction when triggered and are generally located in SA (sinoatrial) node, AV (atrioventricular) node, Purkinje Bundle and fabric of his. Peacefulness comes next the contraction as a result of depolarization. Cardiac pattern represents occurrences from just one heart rhythm to a new.
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It consists of a period of relaxation diastole during which heart fills up with your blood followed by systole during which contraction comes about. Summary The comfort and contraction of cardiac fabric is founded on the behavior likely which will begin involved in the SA node which is performed to many other sections of the center. The sliding filament hypothesis and excitation contraction coupling provide us with details of this method


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Matt was a National Co-ordinator of Conservative Workers and Trade Unionists. You can read his interview with CWTU President Rt Hon Rob Halfon MP at www.toryworkers.co.uk:
Interview with Rob Halfon MP: We are the Party of the Ladder
Conservative Trade Unionists President Rob Halfon speaks to our eBulletin editor, Matt Smith.
Rob Halfon is the Member of Parliament for Harlow, a constituency in Essex with a large blue-collar workforce. He was returned there in 2015 with an increased majority, after first winning election to the House of Commons in 2010. He is Deputy Chairman of the Conservative Party and President of Conservative Trade Unionists, and previously he was the Parliamentary Private Secretary to Chancellor of the Exchequer George Osborne. He is a member of the non-Labour affiliated Prospect trade union and author of Demos paper: 'Stop the Union Bashing: Why Conservatives should embrace the Trade Union Movement.'
Halfon is a very busy Conservative in government, segueing between Parliament, Conservative Campaign Headquarters and the Cabinet Office.
This is his first interview as President of Conservative Trade Unionists. We sit at a table in Conservative Campaign Head Quarters, adjacent to an image of Sir Winston Churchill, who said: 'We are for the Ladder: Let all try their best to climb.'
I begin by asking why he thinks the Conservative Party rather than Labour is the true Workers' Party.
Rob Halfon (RH): We are the party that created over two million jobs in the last parliament. We are going to create another two million more jobs by the end of this Parliament. We are the Party that has created over two million apprenticeships. We are going to create another three million apprenticeships this Parliament.
Matt Smith (MS): Do we perceive the outline of a new Tory-radicalism in government?
RH: We are the party that has introduced the National Living Wage. It is the kind of ground-breaking policy that I would imagine very few people would have thought the Conservatives would introduce. It will mean that by 2020, many low-paid workers will be £4,700 better off. We are also the party of lower taxes for lower earners – with the richest paying a greater share of tax than they were in 2010.
We have raised the personal income tax threshold and will continue to do so, in order that no one on the minimum wage will have to pay any income tax at all.
We are the party of the NHS. We are investing an extra £10 billion. We are the party of helping parents. Particularly those on low incomes in work with children. We have introduced free childcare.
"We are the party of the ladder. If you are in poverty, we will get you out of poverty and into work"
MS: Social justice underpins your conservatism. Providing routes out of poverty and hardship are as important as inspiring aspiration.
RH: We are the party of the ladder. If you are in poverty, we will help get you out of poverty and in to work. We will help you get the skills, training and apprenticeships that you need.
If you are a business, we will cut your taxes so that you can employ more people. We will deregulate so that your business thrives.
If you are hardworking and wanting to buy your own home, we will make that possible either through Right to Buy or Help to Buy.
We are the true Workers' Party – the real party of labour.
These are real, substantive policies. Not just words. We are the true 'Workers' Party'. In fact as George Osborne has said, we are the real 'party of labour'. Whereas the modern Labour party are the party of dependency, high taxes, high borrowing and high spending.
MS: What will the 'Workers' Party' message and the Conservative Trade Unionists achieve for the Conservative Party
RH: This is incredibly important because a third of trade unionists vote Conservative. In my own trade union, Prospect, which is not affiliated to the Labour Party, 25% of members vote Conservative. In some of the other unions, up to 75% of their members vote Conservative. We need to make a distinction between militant trade union leaders and moderate union members.
MS: You believe trade unions are a force for good in society.
RH: They negotiate on behalf of workers for better conditions and decent wages. I know this myself from having worked on the ground with trade unions in Harlow in cases where people had been treated badly by big corporates. So they are a positive force.
They also offer members consumerist services, which are a major reason why people join. They provide important membership services, like health insurance. They provide access to loans at lower interest rates, accountancy services and retail offerings. So if you go on to any trade union websites you will find a host of services that are – if you like – very capitalist in nature. And that is why people join.
I think the Conservative Trade Union movement is incredibly important. It did exist. It fell a little bit by the wayside in the 1980s. It was kept alive as Conservatives at Work by a number of people in the North of England. We have re-established it with a team of people who are now running it on a day-to-day basis.
Our aim is that for any Conservative worker, any Conservative trade unionist to have a voice inside the Conservative Party. A voice that will represent workers and address their issues. And we are getting emails and messages from all over the country.
"Social Justice to me is about helping, literally being the party of the ladder"
MS: What role does Conservative Trade Unionists have in the Conservative view of social justice?
RH: Social Justice to me is about helping, literally being the party of the ladder. It's about ensuring that the poorest can get out of poverty and that they are given the opportunities of the best education, the best healthcare and the best work opportunities. That to me is what social justice is about. People on low incomes who are doing the right thing, are the people that we should be doing everything to help.
We are now the party of the national living wage – a fair day's pay for a fair day's work.
MS: What policy implemented since 2010 most signifies the Conservative Party's credentials as the Workers' Party?
RH: The national living wage. If you remember it was not so long ago in 1997 that Conservatives opposed the minimum wage policy. Fortunately that has been reversed.
We are now the party of the national living wage. People will be roughly £4,700 a year better off by 2020. That is an incredible policy for the Conservatives. It is one of the defining Conservative policies of our generation. What it says is that if you want to work, we will help you get in to work and that work pays. That you get a fair day's wage for a fair day's work. It says to people we don't just want to be a society of dependency and hand-outs, we are a society that supports those who want to work.
For the Conservative Party to introduce that is a huge thing. It is one of the biggest Conservative policies of the last twenty years.
"Trade unions are not just for militants"
MS: What should this Conservative Government do moving forwards for trade unionists specifically?
RH: The first thing is to show moderate trade unionists, of which there are many, that there is a voice. That trade unions are not just for militants. There are many unions that are not affiliated to the Labour Party. If more people joined these unions, stand in elections, then all opinions, all workers would be better represented.
It is very easy to complain that trade unions are dominated by one political force or another if we do not get involved ourselves.
The Life Chances speech – "a signpost on social justice"
MS: You were delighted by the Prime Minister's recent 'Life Chances' speech.
RH: I think that was one of the most important speeches the Prime Minister has ever given. It followed the Party Conference speech and it was a loadstar for us, a signpost on social justice because it makes the Conservative case for from the cradle to the grave. But not through dependency and socialism, through real Conservative measures. By ensuring that early years have a good education, by ensuring people get work, by ensuring that the poorest people are looked after.
Any Conservative interested in social justice should really read that speech. I keep it now in my case and take it everywhere because I think it is an important signpost of what we need to do.
"We are the party of the builders"
MS: Was the Chancellor of the Exchequer right in his 2015 Conference speech to declare 'we are the builders' and 'we are the only true party of labour'?
RH: It was an incredible speech. He stated "we are the party of the builders" and by that he meant that we need to be the party of housing, and affordable low cost housing in particular. He also said we need more houses across the country because the more houses that are built the less houses will cost.
In fact whenever we have been the party of housing – and I am thinking back to Macmillan in the Sixties, and Thatcher's Right to Buy – we have always benefited. It is again perhaps one of the biggest policies of this government.
"Everyone deserves some Conservative representation"
MS: What is the geography of the Workers' Party?
RH: We are very much a One Nation movement but I would also like us to be active in the areas where there is the least Conservative representation. That will obviously include parts of our inner cities, Northern England, as well as Scotland and Wales.
We have to show that everyone across our country deserves Conservative representation, even if there is only one Conservative councillor in their area. We have to give a Conservative voice to the many Conservative voters that are scattered across our country.
MS: What is your vision for the Conservative Trade Unionists and where do you want the CTU to be in two years' time?
RH: The first step is to ensure we get a good membership. That we have events and that we act as a voice for Conservative-minded trade unionists and workers in the Party.
The second is, in the long term, to see the CTU to develop as offering similar services to a trade union. So we act as an alternative. This will of course be very challenging and require a lot of work. But we are not just another pressure group or think-tank. It is a real voice, a real body for Conservative-minded trade unionists. We are lucky to have people like you Matt and Dr Spencer Pitfield and others helping.
That is the long-term aim: to offer services, retail offerings, support and to have branches up and down the country. In the way that it existed when Conservative trade union in the 1970s and 1980s flourished. It should be remembered that under Mrs Thatcher, there were about 170 if not more Conservative trade union branches all over the country.
"People are yearning for moderate, sensible, common sense policies"
MS: Does the current leadership of the Labour Party under Jeremy Corbyn allow the CTU and the 'Workers' Party' to step into a space vacated by Labour?
RH: People are yearning for moderate, sensible, common sense policies. There are many moderate working people who are worried about the extreme direction of the Labour Party, who doubt whether it can really represent them, or fear they will put taxes up.
So actually I think it is an incredible opportunity, almost a once in a lifetime opportunity, to win over moderate working people. People who may not instinctively be ardent Conservatives like you or me, but may be willing to listen to what we have to offer. And that is why the work of the Prime Minister and Chancellor, in talking about working people and developing key policies like the living wage, lower tax for lower earners, the NHS, the thirty hours a week free childcare, is incredibly important.
The work of the CTU is the body that can express this as a voice for moderate working people.
"Whenever we have been the Party of working people we have benefitted"
MS: What Conservative statesmen and stateswomen do you most admire and why?
RH: That is a good question. I don't think I can answer it because there are so many that I admire. If you look at the Conservative Party throughout history, whenever we have been the Party of workers, we have benefitted electorally. Think of Disraeli. In fact the Earl of Derby legislated to allow trade unionism. That is not often known. Macmillan's commitment to building houses. Margaret Thatcher's policy to allow people to buy their own council houses, ensuring workers could become shareholders and cutting taxes for working people. John Major, a working class Conservative Prime Minister and getting the highest number of votes since the War.
Whenever we have been the Party of working people we have benefited. So I wouldn't say that there is only one leader. But I would say that there are things that leaders have done right through our history that I support and admire.


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Yesterday, Esquire magazine released its list of the best new restaurants of 2010. I spent some time browsing the websites of the restaurants on the list to see which restaurants are touting their farm-to-table credibility. Eight of the twenty restaurants see local and sustainable as an important part of their menu. Here's what I found.
ABC Kitchen, New York – Chef Jean-Georges is "passionately committed to offering the freshest organic & local ingredients possible."
Cook & Brown, Providence – Chef Nemo Brolin focuses on "New England seasonality" and works "tirelessly to procure the best ingredients from local farmers, fishermen, ranchers and food artisans."
Frances, San Francisco – Chef Melissa Perello's menus are "inspired by weekly Saturday morning trips to the farmer's market' where she "established longstanding relationships with local purveyors, which inform her seasonal American menu that showcases artisinal products from North California's exceptional farmers."
Gather, Berkeley, CA – At Gather, organic is "always possible." If they can't find an organic ingredient, they use something else in this "place where you can find seasonal food, carefully sourced and thoughtfully prepared to appeal equally to vegetarians and omnivores."
Haven, Houston – Chef Randy Evans uses the "freshest, local ingredients" to create his menu of Texas Regional cuisine.
Longman & Eagle, Chicago – Chef Jared Wentworth "uses traditional cooking techniques when executing his regional American fare, with an emphasis on sourcing the finest local ingredients the region has to offer. This farm to table, nose to tail aesthetic is represented lovingly by ever-changing menus that are both adventurous and sublime."
Maialino, New York– Chef Nick Anderer's menu "features fresh, seasonal ingredients from the Green Market and local farms."
Miller Union, Atlanta – Miller Union's website seems to be down right now, but Open Table says the restaurant "features simply prepared food with a strong focus on local and regional farm-to-table standards."


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Dallas — It's not often that music writers find themselves at concerts at 11 a.m. It's equally rare that those concerts are populated by kids, many of them in costume, and their parents. But such was the case at the abbreviated, intermissionless screening of selections from Disney's Fantasia on Saturday morning. This was part of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra's family concert series, and what a great opportunity for kids. The family of five sitting next to me included Darrick Skuza, 7, who was attired in a Batman costume. He noted that he had seen Fantasia before, and was especially looking forward to "Mickey with the brooms." He glanced knowingly at me and grinned when conductor Sarah Hicks announced Dukas' "The Sorcerer's Apprentice" as the last selection on the program.
The Meyerson was full, noisy, and boisterous just before the first downbeat, and there were audible "ooohs" as the house lights went down. (The orchestra performed an expanded version of the program on Friday and Saturday evenings and Sunday afternoon for all audiences.)
Many kids get their first exposure to classical music through cartoons: be honest, don't some of you still hear Elmer Fudd singing "Kill da wabbit! Kill da wabbit!" every time you hear Wagner's "Ride of the Valkyries"? Disney's 1940 film Fantasia is an even better introduction to major orchestral works—after all, there are no added lyrics to haunt listeners forever, and the animation is utterly enchanting. The program also included selections from Fantasia 2000, many of which were also visually striking, although the portrayal of Donald Duck as Noah with Elgar's "Pomp and Circumstance" as the backing track is just silly.
Fantasia has held its own for more than 75 years now. Even with lots of little ones alternately cooing and screaming in the background, I was brought nearly to tears at the sublime beauty of the hand-drawn animation. CGI is often ever so impressive, but thinking of all those animators creating each layer of each cel by hand is awe-inspiring. It was especially so on the Meyerson's big screen, with the Dallas Symphony playing the soundtrack live.
A recent trend among symphony orchestras has been to show entire films with a backing soundtrack provided by the orchestra. The Dallas Symphony's performance of West Side Story last season is just one example. A "smart podium" used by the conductor, with technology called "streamers and punches" that gives the conductor cues layered over a projection of the film, enables the precise timing needed. Read more about the technology and see some examples here. Rather than showing a complete film, though, conductor Hicks and the symphony played several excerpts from both Fantasia films. This was a bit disappointing—the entire 1940 film would have been thrilling in this format, while the iteration Saturday morning was a bit scattershot, and the other concerts in the series, while longer, followed the same premise of a selection here, a selection there.
The orchestra was in fine form, especially given the distractions posed by the audience. The program began with the opening of the first movement of Beethoven's Symphony No. 5, with animation from Fantasia 2000. At the first iteration of the iconic four-note theme, the small boy in front of me pumped his fist and shouted, "Yaaah!" His mother quickly shushed him, which was rather a shame. There are few things in this world more fist-pump-worthy than Beethoven, and this little child knew it.
Although the orchestra cut the excerpt from Beethoven Symphony No. 6 for the family concert for reasons of length (and perhaps also because the female centaurs in the Fantasia animation appear nude, and the depiction of Bacchus and his revels might not be the most kid-appropriate), the excerpts from Tchaikovsky's The Nutcracker, with animation from the 1940 Fantasia, and from Stravinsky's Firebird, from Fantasia 2000, effectively compensated for the absence of the Beethoven.
Erin Hannigan on oboe and David Matthews on English horn had especially lovely moments in the "Arabian Dance" from Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker, and Theodore Soluri's bassoon solo in the "Berceuse" from Stravinsky's Firebird was lyrical and gorgeous, even though it was a bit difficult to hear over a toddler's meltdown. The animation for Firebird is rather scary, especially for a toddler, incorporating a woods nymph and her forest laid low by a forest fire personified as a snarling fire demon, as is the loud, sudden bass drum at the beginning of the "Infernal Dance." Hicks, who was great with her young audience, speaking simply and briefly but not condescendingly, cautioned listeners that Firebird "is soft, then loud, so don't be scared."
Parents, sensibly, may not want to take their small children to regular classical concerts for fear of disturbing other audience members. These family concerts, however, are great introductions to live classical music for even the smallest arts patrons. They feature an "instrument petting zoo" before the concert—young Darrick, my seat-mate, excitedly told me that he had gotten to play a trombone, and had indeed made a sound—as well as other enticements. Children get to hear a superlative orchestra and watch (parts of) a classic Disney film on the big screen. If that's not fist-pump-worthy, I don't know what is.


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Reconciliation is celebrated at St. Mary's Church in Lee on Saturday afternoons at 3:00 - 3:45 pm or by appointment. Please note that Confessions on Saturday end at promptly 3:45 pm in order to give Father ample time to prepare for Mass.
Otis Confession is offered on the first Saturday of the month at 4:45 - 5:15 pm.
At St. Joseph's Church in Stockbridge, the Sacrament is offered on the first Saturday of the month from 8:45 - 9:15 am.
Twice a year we are part of a Communal Celebration of Reconciliation, and there are special times for the sacrament during Advent and Lent. Confession is also available any time by calling the rectory and making an appointment.
For more information, please call the Parish Office at (413) 243-0275 Monday through Friday between the hours of 9 am and 5 pm.
To learn more about the Sacrament of Reconciliation and to Examine oneself, visit USCCB on Reconciliation


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Local News
Waymaster Awarded Fellowship for Legislative Leadership Development
- Published on Monday, 04 May 2015 16:58
The Council of State Government's Midwest has announced that Representative Troy L. Waymaster of Bunker Hill has been selected to participate in the Bowhay Institute for Legislative Leadership Development (BILLD), which is a leadership program for legislators from 11 states, including Kansas, and provinces from Canada.
Representative Waymaster is one of three legislators from the Kansas Legislature that has been selected to attend the leadership program this summer.
The Bowhay Institute is the only leadership training program designed exclusively for Midwestern legislators. The program focuses on developing legislators with the necessary skills to become effective leaders, informed decision-makers and astute policy analysts. The program offers a unique opportunity for lawmakers to improve their leadership skills and explore the issues of the day with nationally renowned scholars, professional development experts, and legislative leaders and colleagues from across the region.
Three legislators are selected from the following states and Canadian provinces to participate in this legislative program: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, Wisconsin, and from the Canadian provinces of Alberta, Manitoba and Ontario. The legislative leadership program is held in Madison, Wisconsin, and will be conducted this year from August 21-25, 2015.
Every summer, 37 lawmakers from the 11 member states of the Midwestern Legislative Conference and its affiliate members gather in Madison, Wisconsin for a unique five-day educational experience. In addition to its focus on leadership training, such as conflict resolution and negotiation, BILLD includes policy sessions on issues such as education, corrections, health care and economic development, as well as seminars on media relations, priority management and consensus building.
The BILLD program is conducted by the Council of State Government's Midwestern Office in cooperation with The Robert M. La Follette School of Public Affairs at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. The program takes place each summer on the university's campus. Fellowships are awarded on a competitive, non-partisan basis by a Steering Committee of legislators from the region.
The other legislators from the Kansas Legislature that were also awarded Fellowships along with Representative Waymaster are Representatives Melissa Rooker and Nancy Lusk, both from Johnson County.
Representative Waymaster represents the 109th Kansas House District, which includes the counties of Barton, Jewell, Lincoln, Osborne, Rush, Russell and Smith.Read More Local News


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River Trolling for Largemough Bass from a Kayak?
Every consider trolling? From your Kayak? This story will make you think twice about this (offshore?) technique.
"When trolling for bass past the snags in the tree-lined areas, the fish would rush out from the branches and slam our lures but strangely they would not run back to the snags, rather they would fight out in open water."
This is just one quote from what we found to be a very interesting story from Bush and Beach Fishing - a site we are not all that familiar with but which we've just added to our "always check" list of great fishing sites.
This story is about a group of guys fishing for largemouth bass from kayaks. That wouldn't be such a unique story were it not for the technique they're employing: trolling. That's right - trolling. We have some experience trolling from our center consoles in residential canals, and from the sounds of the action the bass displayed for these people the strike and techniques sound very similar.
But if you are a kayak angler, you really gotta read this story.


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Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Summer Project
48 comments:
Those sheets are adorable...and I am sure, you will do a fine job!
I will be looking forward to your posts. Take your time the room will be there forever,your kids will grow and leave. My youngest is 17 today.
Enjoy your beach and deck time!
- May 26, 2011 at 10:55 AM
- tinajo said...
Hey - is another "Cars" on it´s way?! Wohoo - my boys will be thrilled (and me too)! :-)
Great pics, as always. :-)
- May 26, 2011 at 10:55 AM
- Val said...
Adorable.....makes me want to have a little boy all over again!! =)
- May 26, 2011 at 10:57 AM
- Sarah @ Modern Country Style said...
I love your ideas, Michelle. That inspiration picture of the bunk bed is adorable. I love those patchwork quilts.
- May 26, 2011 at 10:59 AM
- Tanya @ Make The Best Of What's Around said...
Adorable! I can't wait to see the progress and all finished. Have fun with it, soudns like a fun project :) HAPPY MEMORIAL DAY!
- May 26, 2011 at 11:31 AM
- D and G Stories said...
Love the shark theme! It will no doubt be adorable!! can't wait to see the finished product. Enjoy your long weekend with your family! :)
- May 26, 2011 at 11:39 AM
- Connie the crafterbug said...
Their room is going to look fantastic! I love all the crisp colors! I applaud you for all your work you are putting into your home and for also making time for your family.
- May 26, 2011 at 11:41 AM
- Martina said...
You just never stop around the house Michelle - and i admire you for that! Great new inspiration here for boys rooms, am sure this one will be great! Have a lovely time with your family! xx
- May 26, 2011 at 11:48 AM
- Pamela said...
I love the colors and the sharks! Looks like a fun project. Are you going to do the oar with the plaques hanging from it? I am sure it will all look great! Enjoy your weekend!
- May 26, 2011 at 12:13 PM
- Brandi said...
I love the direction you're going with your son's room! Enjoy your summer!
- May 26, 2011 at 12:30 PM
- Deborah@Green Willow Pond said...
Love your inspiration pics Michelle. I'm sure you will create an awesome room for your son. You are such a good mama. I remember the hours I put into my son's room last year. It was a ton of work, but so worth it. Take your time and have fun with it! I'll be following you as you go my friend :)
- May 26, 2011 at 1:08 PM
You must be such a proud mum lol. Love the colours you're considering for his room. It will look perfect.
- May 26, 2011 at 1:29 PM
- Robin Johnson said...
What a fun summer project! Mine involves things like dirt, bricks and sore backs! LOL. I bet he'll love the room once you add your magic touch to it.
- May 26, 2011 at 1:51 PM
- Leo said...
I can't wait to see how this comes out! I love the sheets. So cute. Have a great Memorial Day relaxing...and spending time with friends and family. Take care...XOXO
- May 26, 2011 at 2:11 PM
- Pam Kessler said...
It looks like you have a fun project planned. Those shark sheets are very cute. Have a great weekend and a fun summer.
- May 26, 2011 at 2:55 PM
- Unknown said...
Soooo cute!!! You know, my little boy (he's just 2y.o)adores sharks!!!This would be perfect for us!
- May 26, 2011 at 3:08 PM
- Chris at Red Gate Farm said...
Sounds like fun! I love to redo a room... When my daughter was 15 she went to Costa Rica for 2 weeks on a school trip. We completely redid her room while she was gone, right down to the flooring. It was meant to be a surprise and of course her younger brother spilled the beans when she phoned from the airport after they landed in the US. Everyone on her trip wanted to see her "While You Where Out" (remember that show?) bedroom!
I'm betting those cut outs of sharks will be an easy task for you :)
- May 26, 2011 at 3:32 PM
- simone @ Doberman's by the Sea said...
Hallo mein freund, wishing you a wonderful weekend. Enjoy the time with friends and family. The sheets are adorable and I'm sure the room will turn out great. I like the Marco Polo color best. It is cheerful.
- May 26, 2011 at 4:06 PM
- Passionate for White said...
"Set Sail"... love the name, love the color
- May 26, 2011 at 4:26 PM
You can't go wrong when you start with such a great photo and colour palette.
What a great mom you are, that room will be a haven when you're done with it!
Stop in to see me if you've the time!
Ciao Bella!
- May 26, 2011 at 5:34 PM
- Deborah said...
Oh sweetie..I pray for some sunshine to come your way :)
We're having a fair bit of rain here too..even today :(
The beach and the deck with family sounds so relaxing hunny..hope you get to do all of that real soon!
That project sounds like so much fun, and your little one is going to love it..he must be so excited!!!
I cant wait (but will... patiently)to see what you are going to do with his room!
All three of those colours look great with the sheet set...that set is adorable!!
Yes sweetie take your time and just enjoy every minute of your summer!!
And wishing you the best Memorial weekend!!
Love you! xo
Deborah xoxoxoxo
- May 26, 2011 at 5:51 PM
- Marie said...
A momma's work is never done as the saying goes. Love the paint color palette, perfect for your little son. I hope he enjoys his room when you're done.
- May 26, 2011 at 6:03 PM
- Amy Kinser said...
Love the sheets! I can't wait to see what you come up with in that room. You are one creative lady...you know that, right? Have fun having a relaxing summer.
- May 26, 2011 at 6:20 PM
- beachcomber said...
i love the bedroom pic..i'd like plank walls too!
cheryl x
- May 26, 2011 at 6:30 PM
- Seaside Style said...
The sheets are adorble! The room will look awesome, can't wait to see. Kids grow so fast and the time passes even faster. Enjoy every moment of it. Have a great weekned with the family1 XOXO
- May 26, 2011 at 7:31 PM
- Completely Coastal said...
Shark theme for boys..., I guess it makes sense, haha. Have the best weekend!!!
- May 26, 2011 at 9:55 PM
Hi Shells!
Love the direction you're going with the room! Cute cute sheets! My kids love to watch Shark week, too. I bet whatever you do, it will be awesome!
Hope you have a nice weekend with your family!
- May 27, 2011 at 12:37 AM
- Castles Crowns and Cottages said...
Good morning my friend! Well, rain is in my forecast so my gardening plans are AWASH again, BUT I don't care. I am planting my herbs and flowers in their pots IN THE GARAGE!!!! YEP!!! And I am loving what you are doing with your JIGSAW...you can make so many wonderful things but those whales you made take the cake; they are the cutest and with whatever piece of wood, you can make magic. HAVE A FABULOUS WEEKEND AND come visit me for Paris if you can....enjoy that beautiful lake of yours!!! Anita
- May 27, 2011 at 5:20 AM
- René said...
I don't blame you one bit for wanting to spend time with the kids Michelle. They won't be around forever. Love those sheets!
- May 27, 2011 at 9:01 AM
- Lisa @ Fern Creek Cottage said...
Such a fun theme for a boys room! I am so looking forward to seeing what you do and how it all turns out. I know it will be great! Take your time and enjoy your summer though. ;)
Have a great three day week-end my friend!!
- May 27, 2011 at 11:08 AM
- Kelle Dame said...
Awesome! I love your inspirations and I love that your son is into sharks of all things! So cute! I love the sharks with the madras. I found some cheap madras fabric and recreated this look for that little boys room I did. His room is gonna be great! Can't wait to see how it comes along!
Have a great weekend!
- May 27, 2011 at 11:38 AM
- Brittany @ Each Day Gets Better. said...
i cant wait to see what you come up with.
- May 27, 2011 at 12:48 PM
I love the sheets!I know your sons room is going to look fabulous! Have a great holiday.
- May 27, 2011 at 1:23 PM
- Arabella said...
What adorable sheets your son picked out - he has great taste like his mom! Can't wait to see how you progress through his room...and very glad to hear you are going to take your time. Kids do grow very fast so spend as much quality time as you can.
Love you lots,
- May 27, 2011 at 1:26 PM
Hi Michelle
I've finally worked out how to comment and that is to sign in as anonymous.
I am in the throws of a boys bedroom makeover as well and I must say that the oar with hanging bucket and art work has just inspired me. I have a red oar and that is what I will do with it. Thanks for your lovely post. I hope you have a wonderful weekend and the sun shines on your beach real soon.
Best Carolyn
- May 27, 2011 at 6:34 PM
- NanaDiana said...
I hope you have a wonderful weekend with your family. You are right-You can blog more when they don't need you so much! Life is short with children...grab and savor every moment you can! xxoo Diana
- May 27, 2011 at 10:17 PM
- Sandi~A Cottage Muse said...
LOVE your summer project and I know you will create some magic with your jig saw and paints!
Enjoy the holiday weekend!
- May 28, 2011 at 7:28 AM
- Cathy M~(checkitoff) said...
You are such a busy girl Michelle! I experienced a bit of that dreary SW Michigan weather on Wed, Thurs & Friday as I was visiting my parents. Hang in there, it is going to get really nice!! I love this post and that you are focusing on one project and your kiddos. I am going to follow your lead. Have an awesome weekend!! hugs, Cathy
- May 28, 2011 at 11:48 AM
- Tonya said...
Hey its me...Tonya!! Felt like I needed to clarify since blogger isn't letting me sign in with my google account....super annoying!!Anyway...I just wanted to say "hi" and let you know that I think those sheets are adorable & the inspiration room is gorgeous!! Can't wait to see what you come up with!! Hope you get that warm weather the weatherman is promising!!
- May 28, 2011 at 11:39 PM
- sandra said...
Wow Michelle, I love the sheets, they are so cute!
As for the comforter shown in the add, a tadd busy with all the other stuff going on for my taste, I would go with a nautical stripe or solid, that way you'll get to use it for years to come. It's definitely a fun design and I'm sure with your oodles of talent, it will be beautiful!
Looking forward to the finished product, I'd be helping ya if we didn't live so darned far away from each other my sweet friend!
- May 29, 2011 at 12:12 AM
- Anne said...
Michelle, I've so missed reading your posts while my darn computer was in the shop!! I love those shark sheets, how fun is that? and the wall colors are all great, my fave is Marco Polo (plus its such a witty name.) Can't wait to see how it all turns out.
- May 29, 2011 at 11:37 AM
- the fishermans cottage said...
Those sheets are so cute, mine son's all grown up now but i'm sure he would like that blue paint being a Chelsea supporter :).. have a lovely weekend with your family and Happy Memorial day x
- May 29, 2011 at 12:33 PM
I love those colors! I love the colors of water, what can I say?! Your son's room is going to look fantastic! We are having a ton of rain in Atlantic Canada and we're trying to get a cottage painted to put it on the market. Fun stuff! Not!! Enjoy your summer!
- May 29, 2011 at 3:09 PM
- Jenni said...
Happy Memorial Day, Michelle! I hope you all had a great weekend! :)
I love all your plans for your son's room, and those sheets are adorable! :) The colors you are leaning towards are beautiful, too! I can't wait to see it as it comes along! It's going to look wonderful. :) AND it will be fun to see what you do with your Bonus room this fall!
I hope you have a great Tuesday, my friend! :)
- May 31, 2011 at 12:02 AM
- Castles Crowns and Cottages said...
Michelle my dearest! THANK YOU FOR COMING OVER LAST NIGHT! How is the painting and cutting going? Anymore whimsical whales or seafish in the making? With Memorial Day off yesterday, we got a lot accomplished; I wrote an article for a magazine, we hung a large tapestry and we also cut a piece of wood for a plaque we are making for above the entrance to my husband's study. WE HAD A BLAST and this week and next are my final weeks of school and then the summer fun STARTS!!!!!! Have a fabulous day and bless you my sweet friend! Anita
- May 31, 2011 at 5:14 AM
- Donnie said...
Love the sharks and he'll be able to grow with those for a while. It's cute that you know him so well. My grandsons room is in surfboards and it's a really cool look. Have a great week.
- May 31, 2011 at 6:31 AM
- Seawashed said...
Your entire home is going 'beach'. I love those sheets. I wish I had the resources to create a whale room for my boys when they were younger. My oldest, Luke, loved whales. I think I like the Denim and Set Sail blues best. Your son is going to love his room. I will look forward to watching the transformation!
- May 31, 2011 at 6:47 PM
- SLR said...
your summer project will be so amazing when it's all done...looking forward to seeing the results!
enjoy the summer days ahead with your family :)
- June 1, 2011 at 9:30 AM


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This is an old revision of the document!
Serial Console speed/tty
The AstLinux board type of "geni586-serial" assumes a serial console of 19200 baud on /dev/ttyS0 . Described here is a method to change the serial console speed/tty, not only currently but also automatically after upgrades.
This applies to the board type of "geni586-serial" and all other serial console board types, "net5501", "alix", etc. .
Note: AstLinux 1.0.4 or later is required
After setting-up AstLinux and creating the persistent storage, the
setconsole-speed-tty command is used to make persistent changes to the serial console speed/tty settings.
Usage: setconsole-speed-tty [ show|reset|help ] 9600|19200|38400|57600|115200 [ ttySn ]
To issue this command you must either SSH into the AstLinux box, or use the CLI tab in the web interface with the "CLI Proxy Server" enabled in the Network tab. Some example command arguments are:
Set console speed to 38400 baud, using default ttyS0
setconsole-speed-tty 38400
Set console speed to 115200 baud, using /dev/ttyS1
setconsole-speed-tty 115200 ttyS1
Display current settings
setconsole-speed-tty show
Reset /etc/inittab to default factory state with matching kernel console= values
setconsole-speed-tty reset
While this
setconsole-speed-tty command is mostly intended for the board type of "geni586-serial" so as to support additional hardware without requiring new board types, this command may also be useful for other board types. For example, suppose you have both Soekris net5501 (19200 baud default) and PC Engines alix (38400 baud default) hardware and want a common terminal to act as a console. The net5501 can have it's default console speed easily changed via it's BIOS to 38400 baud, and then issue
setconsole-speed-tty 38400 on the net5501. Now both the net5501 and alix boxes will use serial consoles at 38400 baud.


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Author(s): J J Wilson
The How to... series is a great collection of straightforward, user-friendly teacher development books. All titles are written by experienced teachers and teacher trainers and each offers a range of practical teaching ideas within a clear, theoretical framework. Each book contains a photocopiable 'Task File' of practical exercises and activities.
This latest title in the How to… series provides a practical guide to the theory of listening in the language classroom and the skills required in its teaching. The book includes:


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It's definitely a fascinating development.
For app developers the opportunity to be hosted on a market designed to put the universe of apps out to 1/6 of the world's population is simultaneously exhilarating and terrifying. Get it right and you stand to own the world, get it wrong and you'll be buried by everyone else with the same thought – a needle in a haystack-sized pile of needles.
Whilst customer ratings will help consumers navigate this new universe, they create a tyranny for new apps. How to be recognised, how to make you app standout before the stars start landing?
The most important thing to bear in mind is the power of this new environment, there's no need to capture all 900m users (though good luck if you can). With such a massive market, even a niche market will still contain millions of people. Think about who would most likely use your app, by rigorously specialising and simplifying your product, your customers will more easily be able to identify themselves – specialising your product becomes powerful when you can hook into a network of like-minded Facebook users.


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Exclusive? Definitely. Inclusive? Even more so.
I first feel the necessity to generally highlight my views of the Bible. I believe the Bible is logos; the Word of God made available to us through the written word. I recognize the difficulties in logic, timeline, and seeming "contradictions," but I believe that the Bible is a unified whole, from Genesis to Revelation. Although no philosopher, the teachings I tend to admire are from C.S. Lewis, G.K. Chesterton, Francis Schaeffer, and Ravi Zacharias, to name a few. I style myself as evangelical and fundamental, utilizing the "classical" definition of both. That is:
Evangelicalism is a Protestant Christian movement. It began in the 17th century and became an organized movement with the emergence around 1730 of the Methodists in England and the Pietists among Lutherans in Germany and Scandinavia. It continues to draw adherents globally in the 21st century, especially in the developing world.
It is a religious movement that de-emphasizes ritual and emphasizes the piety of the individual, requiring him or her to meet certain active commitments, including:
- The need for personal conversion (or being "born again");
- A high regard for biblical authority;
- An emphasis on teachings that proclaim the saving death and resurrection of the Son of God, Jesus Christ;
- Actively expressing and sharing the gospel.
The term "fundamentalism" has its roots in the Niagara Bible Conference (1878–1897), which defined those tenets it considered fundamental to Christian belief. The first formulation of American fundamentalist beliefs can be traced to the Niagara Bible Conference and, in 1910, to the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church, which distilled these into what became known as the "five fundamentals":
- The inspiration of the Bible and the inerrancy of scripture as a result of this.
- The virgin birth of Christ.
- The belief that Christ's death was the atonement for sin.
- The bodily resurrection of Christ.
- The historical reality of Christ's miracles,
both from Wikipedia. Obviously there is a ton more information regarding both on Wiki and elsewhere, but for my purposes, this will suffice, as definition and identification.
What this does not mean is that I am a rabid, shove it down someone's throat kind of guy. I do not believe it to be in the image of God to do so, and at best, I believe that approach counter-productive. I believe that God loves me enough to be always present, an example, a guiding light, a beacon to find my way home when I have wandered. I do not believe my God is interested in holding me at arm's length until I get it right. And since He is this for me, I should seek to be no less for those that do not believe as I do. God is patient and kind, and I try to emulate Him with my friends who believe as I do, and those who may think I'm a bit of a nutter for believing this way. I have friends all across the spectrum, and I like that. My friends are precious to me, and for me to hit them over the head with my Bible every time we talk, well, we wouldn't be friends for long, and I could hardly blame them.
This is background for a messaged presented by our pastor, Bob Klecan, last Sunday, August 12, 2012. Another sidetrack: I have talked about Pastor Klecan before, and continue to have nothing but praise for him. One of the smartest guys I know, he refuses to show off about it. Humble and kind, Bob's the real deal. He's a joy to talk to, and can converse on just about any topic one could wish. And his approach to the Word of God is equally interesting. He comes from blue-collar roots, and tailors his messages toward a blue-collar, get in the trenches and do this mentality. Very refreshing.
Ok, back to his message. It was entitled, "Contending for the Faith: Arrogant and Hateful?" Although I am going to comment on that sermon, I need to add a disclaimer: the original is much better than this paraphrase. Anything that is good is clearly from Bob Klecan, and anything that doesn't make much sense is clearly from me. Also, I am still on oxycodone from my recent surgery, and therefore not firing on all cylinders (the number of which varies according to whom one is talking. I, as an example, would think of my mind as an eight-cylinder muscle car, perhaps a Ford Mustang Boss 302. Others would perhaps think that granting me a four-cylinder sub-compact would be generous).
Pastor Bob based his message on the Book of Jude, and although it may sound a bit frightening to think of going through an entire book of the Bible in church, it's not so bad when one realizes that: A) Bob focuses on just a few verses at a time: and B) that the entire book of Jude is only twenty-five verses long.
He is actually doing a series on the Book of Jude, and it has been interesting, to say the least. For me, Jude has always been kind of a throw-away, something to read quickly and move on. It just never seemed like there was enough substance there to gain any traction. But Pastor Bob has really added muscle to the book, and I have enjoyed it immensely.
This past week Pastor Bob started out with an observation from Jude that although Jesus is the fulfillment of Hebrew scriptures, the grace that was gifted to the human race by God was being distorted; that grace was being used as an excuse for license. True, we are forgiven. But that does not give us permission to do what we want, when we want. Although God allows us to do so, this does not help us to grow in our faith, but takes us further from the ideal. We are called, sanctified, and preserved (v. 2). How then do we contend for the faith, as we are exhorted to do (v. 3)? How do we contend for the faith "in a society that believes it is arrogant, hateful, and even dangerous to insist that your faith is the 'right one,' and to not only refuse to accept the validity of other faiths, but to also to attempt to convert others to your faith?"
The answer is two-fold. First the explanation as to why we/I believe as we do.
The explanation is that the Good News as proclaimed by the Bible is uniquely exclusive. Christianity (as represented by the Bible) makes unique claims, as compared to the world's other major religions. Christianity claims that God came to earth and lived among men, at the same time completely retaining His "God-ness" and yet at the same time He was completely man. Christianity claims that Christ, the God-man lived a real life: that he suffered a real death while accepting every wrong thing that keeps us from a perfect God, and that after dying, he re-claimed His life, thereby defeating death. Further, that since this is true, Christianity claims that accepting and giving oneself to Christ is the only means by which one can come into the presence of a Holy God (heaven). Only through the acceptance of, and reliance on the gift of grace offered by God through the sacrifice of his only son, Jesus Christ may one obtain eternal life. There are multiple verses in support of this exclusivity, suffice it to say that if Christianity is not the exclusive way to eternal life, then Christianity is useless. It is not a good philosophy, it is not a good set of principles by which to live. If Christianity is not true, it is worse than a waste of time, it is actually a terrible evil, pulling us away from any correct way to God, and dooming those that have chosen to follow. But I believe it is true. Can I prove that by formulae or direct observation? Not really. I can offer evidence of miracles that I have personally witnessed. I can offer the Scriptures themselves as a unified whole. And I rely on my faith.
The problem with the explanation is that many people stop right there, and basically live their lives as a bumper sticker. "The Bible says it. I believe it. That settles it." That's ok to live by, I suppose, but it doesn't do much to speak to those with real questions.
Pastor Klecan stated that the best (and often only) answer to the question, "How do we then contend for the faith?" is not in the explanation, but in the application. And the application is that this faith is uniquely inclusive. With the Bible, there is no Jew, no greek, no male or female, no racial divide, no favoritism. All are equally needy before a righteous God, and all are equally accepted with reliance on Jesus' sacrifice. And for those of us who do rely on God's grace, it is incumbent to present ourselves in a light that is worthy. In our speech, in our actions, in what we post on Facebook, and in what we write. This is not to say that we compromise on those areas of exclusivity, but that we reach out in love, always looking to the author and perfector of our faith, Jesus Christ. Bob said something along the lines of, "Do we want to make a point, or do we want to point toward eternity?" This is where I often personally stumble. I have very definite ideas about nearly everything, and don't often hesitate to share my thoughts, regardless of how harsh or pointed they may be. I need (no, I must) change that attitude. And that is a work in progress. In fact, just this past week, a friend on Facebook kind of lit me up about a post I had passed on. The accompanying photo was unflattering to the subject involved, and in retrospect, not necessary for the point to be made. I hadn't even noticed the photo, I liked the major point, so I passed it along. My friend was rather relentless, and when I understood how the poster came across, remembering Pastor Bob's message, I saw I was wrong and apologized. I told my friend that I should have seen the inherent nastiness in the photo. She didn't let me off the hook, she told me that I should have seen it prior to posting. And you know what? She was right. I am trying to look at my posts ahead of time now. The presentation is as important as is the message. Like I said, "a work in progress."
As Pastor Bob said, exclusivity and inclusivity is not, in the end, a "balancing act," but a commitment to passionately embrace both the exclusive and the inclusive. That we keep one foot firmly planted in each area. That we embrace both with equal certainty. And that we live both with equal passion.
May God grant me the ability to be His representative in love, and in peace.


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Este es un modelo de packaging para los cereales Froot Loops de Kellogg. Según sus creadores, Prachi Deshingkar y Shikha Kanakia, este envase evita vuelcos accidentales y una mejor promoción del producto en góndola.
Designer: Prachi Deshingkar, Shikha Kanakia
Project Type: Student
Project School: MIT Institute of Design Course
Packaging Location: India Packaging
Contents: Cereal
Frootloops is the preferred choice of breakfast for children all over the world. This packaging solution hopes to translate the delight and vibrancy of the doughnut shaped cereal, to its appearance on the shelf. This extends to the experience on the breakfast table as well, making a Frootloops breakfast a treat for the child's eyes and taste buds! Please note: Kellogg's Frootloops has not reviewed and does not endorse any products, concepts or viewpoints expressed in this project.
What's Unique?
Children are our users but their mothers are the ones who make purchases. Our package had to please both of them. In the process of finding a common ground between the two, our package has a unique shape with transparent slots to see its scrumptious contents, and along with it there are illustrations for the mother to see how buying this pack would benefit her child's health.
There are also illustrations of a hungry Toucan (mascot) who starts getting full as he gobbles up the yummy loops. The flap of the packaging resembles Toucan Sam's beak.


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The PokerStars brand was, for a long time, the largest and best-known online poker brand in the world. And then it was overtaken by a Canadian company called Amaya Gaming in 2014 for a record sum ($4.9 billion), and things have changed. Gradually, PokerStars expanded its offer, adding traditional and live-dealer casino games to its lineup. Today, it has not only real-money online poker but online pokies, table games, and everything else an online casino needs – it even launched its own sportsbook brand (BetStars) and planned to launch its own DFS brand, StarsDraft. The "Stars" brand has a lot of potential for expansion, and Amaya sure made the most of it.
DraftKings, one of the world's largest daily fantasy sports operator, might have a similar future; at least this is what the remarks of DraftKings CEO Jason Robins at this year's Web Summit in Lisbon, Portugal, seem to suggest. Of course, there is that small thing called a federal law that is in its way to do the switch in the US – but for the rest of the world, it could (and it might) happen.
One of the most interesting announcements made by Robins in Portugal this November was his company's acquisition of the streaming rights of EuroLeague's matches. For those unfamiliar with European basketball, EuroLeague is the European-wide top-tier level professional basketball club competition, with the second-highest attendance of any professional basketball league in the world except the NBA. Now DraftKings plans to introduce streaming of EuroLeague matches live to its mobile app users in the US and Canada, and enter a new set of contests created around these events and teams.
Sportsbooks have, for a long time, offered similar services to their users – streaming matches live through their online and mobile platforms – but this is the first time a daily fantasy sports operator has ever ventured into this territory. And pairing these two services might drive interest (and revenue) for both DraftKings and EuroLeague, Robins believes. "I think if we can demonstrate that, there will be other sports that will be eager to work with us in the same way," he told Bloomberg TV a few weeks ago. And this is only the first step, as he hinted on approaching American right-holders like ESPN and Fox Sports with similar solutions in the future.
As for the future of DraftKings as a potential sports betting operator, Robins didn't go into any details – he only mentioned that it is one of the company's options in case sports betting is ever legalized in the United States. And if this happens, it would be foolish for the company not to pursue this direction, given the already massive visibility of the brand. And with the number of voices raised in favor of regulated sports betting in the US recently, this might happen sooner than many of us think.


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"For the sake of the exquisiteness of emotion which music may express, as well as for the sake of perfection of the music itself, therefore, there is a place for the formalization and co-ordination of different contemporary musical resources by means of their common relationship with the overtone series, which, although it forms a mathematical, acoustical, and historical gauge, is not merely a matter of arithmetic, theory, and pedantry, but itself a living essence from which musicality springs."
So concludes Henry Cowell in the final paragraph of New Musical Resources. After reading so many other composers refer to this work it was good to read the source directly. (I really must read the Michael Hicks biography of Cowell - I've heard such good things about it)
The attraction of the overtone series as harmonic resource has undeniable pull. The history of music - and more accurately - the history of intervals being added to a growing pool of acceptable "consonances" almost cuts a clean path upward through the harmonic series. So much so that serialist composers would often point toward the "dissonant" harmonies used in their compositions as being at an advanced point along the overtone series. Even Henry Cowell himself argued that the dense harmonic "clusters" could be found - and perceptually comprehended - as intervals found in the upper partials of this "natural" foundation. In one sense this is a safe argument as any interval can be found in the harmonic series. It is theoretically infinite and contains all intervals. The other part of the argument - that "dissonance" equals either evolutionary or revolutionary advancement that is sonically "ahead of one's time" is suspicious. But I don't think that is the argument that Henry Cowell puts forth.
Parts I and II deal with harmony and rhythm respectively. The prose is a little clumsy - but this is often the case when trying to bend words toward explaining one's relationship to sound and ideas. There's a feeling of familiarity here as Cowell mirrors my own approach to these parameters in many respects and I enjoy reading this much more than I'd anticipated.
Part III focuses on "chord-formation" and here Cowell lays out the logic and creative path that leads him to the use of tone-clusters. It is here that he explicitly draws upon the "upper partials" argument for the cognitive comprehension of tone-clusters. (Though in reality, the thick, aggressive beauty of tone-clusters is all the justification one should ever need). And he goes on to make a case for substituting major and minor seconds for the equivalent thirds in tonal/tertiary harmony. This reminds me of Arnold Schoenberg's Kammersymphonie and how fourths are used as the chordal building blocks as a substitute for thirds. Whether one swaps out fourths or seconds, these two composers wrote some fantastic music with this approach.
The piano was Henry Cowell's primary instrument. And the quality of his piano compositions is enormously enduring. I admire his formal explanation for developing a piano technique that calls for elbows and fists on the keyboard. By building a harmonic system of major and minor seconds for tone-clusters he collapsed the intervallic chordal basis about as far as one can go with this instrument before re-tuning the beast. And as such he came up against the same problem with harmony that drove Schoenberg to his "crisis" period shortly after the Kammersymphonie. The choice of substituting seconds or fourths for the more common thirds was motivated by a search to open up new harmonic territory. And it takes very little time to exhaust the possibilities of every interval when there are so few to choose from. This realization is what drove Schoenberg to develop his tone row technique. But the "new musical resources" of the overtone series suggested by Cowell points directly toward a more intuitive solution.
Looking to the overtone series as musical resource I am struck by just how different the intervals are there compared to the paltry set of approximations in 12-tone equal temperament. One has to travel a long way up the series to find two partials exactly 100.00 cents (minor second) or 200.00 cents (major second) apart. And cognitively, our auditory systems probably accept these intervals for the 16/15 (111.73 cents) and 9/8 (203.91) in most contexts. But imagine a more dynamic tone-cluster composition that makes use of multiple tunings for major and minor second intervals. Something that opens the ear to the fluctuations of tones as a primary focal point. This is an area where one can build upon Henry Cowell's ideas. And it's his thinking about tone clusters that is particularly well thought out in this book.
Monday, December 26, 2005
New Musical Resources
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Despite reports that Jon Gosselin and Ed Hardy fashion designer Christian Audigier spent the weekend finalizing a deal to launch a children's clothing line together, the designer's rep tells Usmagazine.com that no such project is happening.
See Jon and Kate Gosselin through the years
"Christian is absolutely not starting a kids' clothing line with Jon," a rep for Audigier tells Us. "As of right now, there is no clothing line in the works between them at all." Gosselin — an Ed Hardy fan — and his 22-year-old girlfriend Hailey Glassman spent the past few days on board Audigier's yacht in St. Tropez in the French Riviera.
See more controversial reality show romances
On Sunday, E! News reported the father of eight and Audigier met up in France to go over a possible business partnership. "We would like to do a line of children's clothing," Audigier, 51, told E! News. He added: "They're having fun. I"m taking care of them."
See more photos of Jon and ex-girlfriend Deanna Hummel
Why would the 32-year-old unemployed star of Jon & Kate Plus 8 want to delve into this line of work? He has long been a fan of Audigier's hip clothing line. On June 4, he wore a $275 red sweatshirt while unpacking luggage outside his home in Wernersville Pa. Two days later – while taking 8-year-old twins Cara and Mady to see Disney's Up — he donned a pair of $150 Ed Hardy jungle-inspired jeans (featuring two angry tigers on the rear).
See photos of Jon and Kate in the weeks before their divorce announcement
"He seems to love our clothing," Tara Malia Gregory, the company's marketing director, previously told Us.
For access to all our exclusive celebrity videos and interviews – Subscribe on YouTube!


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The teenage years are the most beautiful but troublesome years especially when it comes to body care. It is the time when the hormones are going wild, causing acne and other skin problems, hair problems and so on.
These are problems every person needs to surpass, but it makes a great difference how you tackle these problems. Skin and body care is very important especially during puberty and teenage years.
Here are some things you should try to avoid when you are a teenager:
Avoid wearing heavy foundation if you have acne skin problems. By using foundation you will only make things worst because your skin will not be able to breath as it should.
Pores might get clogged and you may cause even more breakouts. Apply a concealer to hide your skin problems instead, because it too will help you get coverage while still allowing your face to breath.
Avoid going to sleep without cleansing your face even if you weren't wearing make-up. Dirt and pollution will affect your skin too. Make sure you clean your face every day to avoid dirt getting trapped into your pores. The trapped dirt might get infected and cause breakouts and pimples.
Avoid picking skin care products that work for your friends and don't match your skin type. There are several types of complexions so you should find what type you have. Cosmetic products are usually designed for a certain type of complexion so it can best benefit it. What works for one type of complexion won't work for the other so use only products designed for either: sensitive, dry, oily, normal or mixed skin complexion.
Avoid wearing too much makeup because too much makeup will make you look aged. Go for a more natural look because less is more especially if you are a teenager. Don't cover up your beautiful, youthful skin.
Do not share your makeup. Bacteria usually forms on makeup especially if they are not cleaned regularly. You can transfer bacteria from one person to another and get infections. Use only your own makeup and make sure you clean them regularly.
Take care of your skin because your skin is very important. Take care of it properly and it will still look youthful in the future.


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George Clooney is suing the magazine French magazine Voici for taking photos of his newborn twins
Celebrity Gossip - George Clooney is showing the entertainment world that taking a picture of him without permission will result in a hectic lawsuit that could possibly ruin a company. A French magazine named Voici is accused of taking pictures of George Clooney's newborn twins Ella/Alexander by jumping over a fence and hiding in a tree. George Clooney recently made a statement to US Weekly saying " The photographers, the agency and the magazine will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law, the safety of our children demands it". The source says the picture was taken in Italy on the couples private estate. Check out the celebrity gossip video by US Weekly below and don't forget to like, share and subscribe to their channel. Worldwide Spotlight celebrity gossip wants to hear from you, do you think the photographer should be punished for taking the pictures of George Clooney's kids in a tree like a stocker?.
George Clooney Slams French Magazine for Publishing Paparazzi Photos of His Twins
Worldwide Spotlight Celebrity Gossip Videos


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Cranbrook Custom Homes truly values each of our clients, and we are honored to showcase how they benefit from our unique architectural advantage. View our portfolio of testimonial videos to hear about their exceptional experiences working with Cranbrook.
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Disease Check – Growneria
March 14, 2008 Leave a comment
Time is passing by faster than we could have ever imagined. Change is a part that we live with and the more we ignore it, harder it is to recognize the obvious. It takes a while but there is a moment of clarity when you know you are right there. I don't think you can clearly define some changes, but to those who keep their eyes wide shut to reality and proclaim to be I-am-young-at-heart types.. I can show some clear symptoms that they also might be suffering from the \"Growneria\".
- 6:00 AM is when you get up, not when you go to bed
- You get to listen to your favorite music mostly when you are driving.
- You check weather often.
- You go from 130 days of vacation time to 14.
- Jeans and a sweater no longer qualify as \"dressed up.\"
- Older relatives feel comfortable telling adult jokes around you.
- You don\'t know what time coffee shop closes anymore.
- Your car insurance goes down and your payments go up.
- Realized that sleeping on the couch can make your back hurt.
- You no longer take naps from noon to 6 PM.
- Eating a pizza 3 AM is a bad bad idea.. instead you wait till morning to have 2% milk and Oatmeal cereals
- You actually eat breakfast food at breakfast time.
- \"Yeah, I can drive faster than that\" replaces, \"Geez, that's crazy, I\'m never going to ride with you again".
- 90% of the time you spend in front of a computer is for real work.
- Your cell phone day time minutes are actually within the limits and that doesn't bother you.
- When you call your friend you no longer talk about the hot chick you saw in the last movie.. instead you tell him about the best investment plan
- Weekends are to relax
- You try justifying laughing on lame jokes PJ's
- You prefer to call up your friend before crashing at his place at 6pm
- Movie review are must before going for a movie
- You envy kids coz they seem to be outsmarting you in new technology
- Kids address you as Uncle instead of Bhaiya !!!
- Your key-chains have kroger / cvs / walgreen membership cards
I can't embarrass myself more than this. Yes, all of those above applies to me. I am sure you might agree with me for most of those if not all.
On a different note, I completely enjoyed the track "Mera Jahan" form TZP (Taare Zameen Par). It has its own unique appeal specially with the treatment of music and fully justified vocals from Adnan Sami. Crisp sharp strumming and confident use of drums with the aalap similar to Kailash Kher's "Teri Diwaani".
And this phraze from the lyrics have left mark and haunts my soul
Chadme Ko Khula Aasmaan
Mudne Ko Hai Karwat Karwat
Aur Badhne Ko Mera Jahan
Ok.. back to the point, I have the symptoms to diagnose "Grown-eria" but any treatments ? …
Shah / Nirav TM
© Copyrights 2008 Nirav Shah. Some rights Reserved !


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Playing pokemon - How old are you?
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Innovative Global Trends in Video-Enabled Learning Spaces
Time 04/07/14 04:30PM-05:30PM
Room Governor's Square 11
Netcast sponsored by Cisco
Session Abstract
As 1:1 computing, BYOD, and video-on-demand are more readily accessible, educators are innovatively transforming teaching and learning by flipping classrooms, creating MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses) or utilizing open educational resources (OER). With tools such as video conferencing, video streaming, recording, and social media for collaborating and capturing we are easily able to create our own content. In this session, we will take a look across the U.S. and globally to see best practices. We will hear from the Manhattan School of Music and the University of Illinois as they share best practices in recording, streaming and capturing lectures, tutoring, and content for transforming the classroom and extending existing instructional activities.
Come ready to listen and share as participants engage in an interactive and open discussion in key areas:
• Global trends – Explore how the latest collaboration innovations apply to learning spaces.
• Best practices – Learn how others are harnessing technology in their teaching and learning.
• Impediments – Share your challenges and explore possible solutions with us.
Speaker Christianne Orto Manhattan School of Music
Speaker Elaine Shuck Polycom Worldwide
Speaker Brian Metzger University of Illinois
Primary track Innovative Partnerships, Uses and Applications
Secondary tracks Innovative Partnerships, Uses and Applications


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[col. writ. 1/11/11] (c) '11 Mumia Abu-Jamal
The recent massacre in Tucson, Arizona has shone an unflattering light on America in the 21st century. What makes this event remarkable though, is not that it happened, but who it happened to.
Consider: If the victims were average people, instead of a congressperson and a judge (among others), would you know the name of the shooter? Would it be more than a passing news item?
Such events as these have happened across America, in state after state; and unless it happened in your locality, I doubt you could recall the name of the assailant.
I dare say, it will happen more in the future.
And media fascination with the mental illness aspect of the accused seems more concerned with promoting the mental well being of the audience than any real, substantial basis for such a diagnosis.
For, having read several articles which quoted the accused, they don't read as crazy as the media suggests. Nor is it helpful to describe him as 'anti-government', for with congressional approval ratings in the low 20s or 30s, the vast majority of Americans are, in some sense, anti-government!
In fact, this young man seemed a 'constitutional absolutist', or one who reads the Constitution literally, and therefore rejected any governmental action or agency not expressly provided in the document.
It is easy to label the accused a "lone nut job", as many have done, but shouldn't that be determined after an investigation, instead of before one?
Many of us remember, (or have read of), "lone nut jobs" being called responsible for the assassinations of President John F. Kennedy, and Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Or even the bombing of the Federal building in Oklahoma. Today, millions of people seriously doubt the official stories.
And look at the continuing controversy over 9/11!
In times of serious economic dislocation, and social instability, some people see change as something utterly threatening and terrifying.
It doesn't help that politicians seem to be sparking (and stoking) such discontent, in part to gain headlines, but also to demonize opponents.
In the 19th century, French observer, Alexis de Tocqueville, described American political parties as virtually nations at war with each other. They are more at war now than then --and mad soldiers can be the best weapons.
Like mad dogs fed on gunpowder, mad men can be fed with words: like traitor, leftist, violator or socialist.
They are like bombs; all you've got to do is point them.
--(c) '11maj
'How to be green? Many people have asked us this important question. It's really very simple and requires no expert knowledge or complex skills. Here's the answer. Consume less. Share more. Enjoy life.' Penny Kemp and Derek Wall
19 Jan 2011
When 'Nut' Ain't Enough
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When Keir Starmer was a Marxist.
Canvassing in Brighton back in 2017 to support Green Party MP Caroline Lucas's re-election efforts, I knocked on a door and came acros...
Sat at a computer in the library, I am aware that the woman looking at the screen next to me is becoming increasingly agitated. ...
Canvassing in Brighton back in 2017 to support Green Party MP Caroline Lucas's re-election efforts, I knocked on a door and came acros...
Just had this via Roger Hallam of Vote No Heathrow, please spread the word. Things are rapidly taking off for the campaign now the hung...


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We are in the year 2014, and it is about time that everyone should be allow to marry. I am a lesbian myself, and it is frustrating there are so many states I can not get married in. I do not believe that God would want limitations on love and unity. It does not matter who you lay with at night, what matters is what is in your heart and how much you love someone else.
People are very much against amending the Constitution, something that has always bothered me. I often advocate against a federal marriage law because there is no constitutional basis for it, but I would be in favor of an amendment because I favor gay marriage - and, more importantly, removing the stigma of an amendement.
Congress should approve an amendment to the U.S. Constitution that enumerates equal marriage rights for homosexual couples in addition to heterosexual couples. That way, there aren't separate lawsuits seeking gay marriage rights to be carried over from one state to the next, which is what's going on now in places like Arkansas and Missouri.
The subject of gay marriage has gained a lot of approval over the past few years all along the country. So we need to stop this state by state approach where a couple can be married in one state and not in another and make a federal marriage amendment that covers the whole country.
No, there should not be a federal marriage amendment to give gay marriage nationwide approval, because most people still do not want gay marriage. State after state passed amendments making marriage between a man and a women. The liberals that run the federal government need to stop shoving their politics down our throats.