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Arrogance and emotional blackmail
April 19, 2011 6 Comments
I recall a debate I had with a shi'i brother back when I was a sunni, regarding the coherence of our respective beliefs. His insistence that the majority of sahaba turned back on their heels and rejected the imamate of Ali led me to retort: "Well if that's true, then it means there was nothing special about the Prophet, since he failed to transform his followers in the twenty-three years he stayed with them." A response loaded with two specific fallacies, designed to back my opponent into a corner and yield.
That 'specialness' of the Prophet was important. It allowed everything to fall into place, even when they didn't really fit, and allowed for an intelligent-lite cosmic view. The Prophet was special, hence Islam was special. Specialness meant I did not need to subject Islam to the same level of scrutiny as I would would with any other philosophy: it had its own rules.
What happened to previous religions couldn't happen to Islam. What this arrogance does is it creates a wedge between the Muslim and the warnings given in quran regarding what happened to the previous people who were given guidance:
5/13 So for their breaking of the covenant We cursed them and made their hearts hard. They distort words from their usages and have forgotten a portion of that of which they were reminded. And you will still observe deceit among them, except a few of them. But pardon them and overlook. Indeed, Allah loves the doers of good.
5/14 And from those who say, "We are Nasaara" We took their covenant; but they forgot a portion of that of which they were reminded. So We caused among them animosity and hatred until the Day of Resurrection. And Allah is going to inform them about what they used to do.
Hard hearts, forgetting part of the message, deceitful, enmity and hatred between them… if this does not sum up the condition of the Muslims today, what does? But how many Muslims will admit that these verses are aimed at them? They will insist that Islam is special, and it will not and has not fallen foul of the same satanic tricks that fooled the ancient believers. "These verses refer to Jews and Christians, not Muslims!" Arrogance blinds such people from taking heed.
The truth is, Islam is not special. Neither was the Prophet.
42/13 He has decreed for you the same deen He ordained for Noah, and what We inspired to you, and what We ordained for Abraham, Moses, and Jesus: "You shall uphold this deen, and do not divide in it." Intolerable for those who have set up partners is what you invite them towards. God chooses to Himself whomever He wills; He guides to Himself whoever repents.
3/144 Muhammad is but a messenger, like many messengers that have passed before him. If he dies or gets killed, will you turn back on your heels? Whoever turns back on his heels, he will not harm God in the least. God will reward the thankful.
Once one comes to the realization that islam was and is the original deen, sent to all the previous nations, and that the Prophet's mission was no different to the mission of the Prophets he proceeded, the warnings in the quran become relevant. If the old 'muslims' went astray, what's to say we won't as well? Are we making the same mistakes as the previous nations?
The belief that the Bible was compiled 150 years after the Prophet Jesus is strikingly similar to the claim that the hadith collections were supposedly compiled 200 years after the Prophet Muhammad. Jewish tradition has a strong emphasis on hadith, and secondary sources to the Torah, particularly the Thalmud, which should make Muslims reflect upon their own corpus of secondary sources. Messianism, which still grips many Christians and Jews today, is not only the archetype of shi'ism but also sunni'ism, which proposes that Jesus and the Mahdi will come and save us despite a lack of evidence from quran. The idolisation of pious men e.g. Jesus, is similar to Muslims who believe the Prophet was made of light, and that he will intercede for the people on Judgement day. And so on.
It is only arrogance that prevents Muslims from connecting these dots. A blissful existence of denial has been fashioned by centuries of pretentious 'scholarship', maintained by ahadith speaking of a 'saved sect', leading to in-fighting and takfeerism amongst various groups.
But arrogance is not an innate characteristic in anyone. Despite the wider culture of arrogance, individuals are still akin to asking questions, and reflecting on the guiding principles they've inherited. With increasing affluence and education, many Muslims are scrutinising much of what is being dressed up as islamic. A bearded fellow knowing a few Arabic words may have scared off inquisitive Muslims of old, but that simply doesn't cut it with this generation. The traditional keepers are being shook up by intelligent, concerned Muslims, who keep doing their own research. The status quo is being threatened.
How to stop those darn kids asking so many questions!?
Emotional blackmail
After nurturing a mass state of arrogance, the way to keep people from breaking free of such stupor is through emotional blackmail. One of the most common attacks of traditionalists is the infamous "do you think you know more about Islam than hundreds of years worth of scholars?", "you know more about Islam than the sahaba?", "are you saying that all the Muslims of the past got it wrong, and you've come and realized the truth?" Of course, these questions are loaded, and are thrown at you precisely to stop your line of enquiry. The questions are invalid, but many of us feel obliged to answer 'no, of course not' and retreat with our tails tucked between our legs.
For a long time, this blackmailing kept me from adopting progressive views. I convinced myself that I cannot possibly understand islam, because I was not educated enough. And yes, it can't be that 1400 years of Muslims got it wrong. Yet, the quran warns us of such folly:
2/170 And when it is said to them, "Follow what Allah has revealed," they say, "Rather, we will follow that which we found our fathers doing." Even though their fathers understood nothing, nor were they guided?
7/28 When they commit evil acts, they say, "We found our fathers doing such, and God ordered us to it." Say, "God does not order immorality! Do you say about God what you do not know?"
Following tradition is simply not an argument. Allah does not hold anyone to account in regards to how closely they followed their fathers, or 'ijma' as sunnis like to say. Appeal to emotion is a common informal fallacy and is usually pulled out the hat when the argument has been lost. The last throw of the dice, if you will, bar ad hominem!
Muslims need to humble themselves, and put their deen into perspective. It is a universal deen that was sent as guidance to all the previous Prophets. Their mistakes could be your mistakes, if you don't pay attention. And those Muslims who are beginning to question that which they believe to be unislamic, need to stand strong against blackmailing tactics that have been used for so long to keep people in check.
May Allah make this easy for us.


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In the previous sermon, we saw Joshua's final words to the leaders of Israel that teach them about living by faith. In this final chapter of the book, Joshua leads the people in renewing the covenant with God, which is an act of rededicating themselves to His service before Joshua passes into glory and they are on their own. The way the covenant renewal ceremony is laid out in this passage is very similar to the covenants of the other peoples of the ancient near east surrounding Israel. God chose to make His covenants with them in a way that would be familiar to them (in and of itself and act of grace!).
The ceremonies generally opened with a preamble where the parties making the covenant introduce themselves, and then they go on to a "historical prologue" where the history of the relationship between the parties is recounted (i.e. everything that is leading up to the covenant ceremony). The covenant renewal ceremony in Jos. 24 follows that pattern, and it is the historical prologue that I want to focus on for this devotional. We will talk about it a little Sunday, but we will not be able to go into detail there. So, here are a few theological highlights from the recounting of the history of God and His people to this point (reading Jos. 24:1-13 first would be helpful):
- Unconditional Election: Joshua starts out by reminding them that God took Abraham from Ur while Abraham was still a pagan. And, Abraham was chosen; not his brother Nahor, yet Abraham deserved it no more than Nahor. Abraham was no saint when God found him. He was plunged into pagan worship probably just as much as the Canaanites. Abraham did not become a believer because he was somehow inherently better than his father or brother. Abraham did not deserve it any more than anyone else. No, it was because God "took" him and "led" him. God loved Abraham when he deserved only wrath. The fact that Israel exists at all is simply an act of God's free grace and unconditional election. And, this is consistent with the rest of Scripture. The Bible constantly reminds us of who we were, but it is not to bring us to despair but to show us the incredible grace of God. Francis Schaeffer once wrote:
Whether studying the Old Testament or the New, we are reminded that we are not where we are because of a long, wise, and godly heritage. We come from rebellion. Individually, we are children of wrath. After we are Christians, we must look at others who are still under God's wrath and always say, "I am essentially what you are. If I am in a different place, it is not because I am intrinsically better than you, but simply because God has done something in my life." There is no place for pride.
- Slow growth: Joshua tells us that God multiplied Abraham's seed, but it was really, really slow. He only gave him Isaac. Isaac only had two sons, one of which would not produce people of God (i.e. Esau). Finally, with Jacob's twelve sons, things start to speed up. So, we see from this that God does what He promises, but sometimes it is so gradual that we do not notice until it has been going on for a long time. We need to keep this in mind and walk by faith; not by sight. As one commentator says, "We easily lose sight of what Yahweh has done by demanding too much too soon."
- Rough spots: Joshua also points out that Esau and his people (not God's people) get their inheritance right away but Jacob and his sons (God's people!) go to Egypt and become slaves. What? Why do the covenant people get slavery while the others get their land? Sometimes history seems to conflict with God's design, which is, again, why we have to walk by faith and not by sight. God always accomplishes His design, but sometimes it is not at all when we would expect it (cf. e.g. He. 11:32-38). The Scriptures are realistic about this and do not hide the "rough spots" from us, and that shows God is honest, realistic, and always faithful. God showing us the "rough spots" and confusing parts of history is not to make us relish the difficult aspects of the life to which He has called His people but to show us that He is faithful to hold us in and bring us through the "rough spots."
- God's power: In vv. 5-12, Joshua recounts God's incredible power to deliver His people from Egypt (the greatest power in the world at the time), conquer the kings east of the Jordan, and conquer the Promised Land. Joshua sums it up with telling the people that it was not by their sword or bow that all this was accomplished but by God's mighty power. Time and time again God's people are outnumbered, outgunned, or even completely helpless, and God fights for them by His mighty power. This shows us what Jonah learned in Jon. 2:9: Salvation is of the LORD. Paul also tells us this in 2 Co. 4:7. This is not to say that we just "let go and let God," for God uses our struggles, as we fight by faith, but it does show us that our struggles would be nothing, useless, futile without God's mighty power. (We will talk more about this in the upcoming sermon.)
- God's provision: If we look at vv. 7, 13, Joshua shows us God's provision in necessity and abundance, but also note that His provision is the basic stuff: manna, grain, towns, houses. It, with the exception of the manna, is ordinary stuff that we take for granted every day, but it is all of God's grace. God always provides for His people, but we need to remember too that God isn't some kind of genie that just grants our wishes. He gives us our needs; not necessarily our desires. And, most often He does it through the normal, ordinary means of a job, a family, etc.
By His Grace,

subset: commoncrawl


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The duct tape lie
Seen a lot in Hollywood movies
Posted 7 years ago by boyt in category: interesting
Comments (3)
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It's like much in life, there are different qualities of stuff. Because you bought the cheapest stuff you could find, of course it doesn't stick well. To say Hollywood lies in this case is dumb. Like Gump's mama always says, "stupid is as stupid does". A lot of the good stuff will take some skin with that.
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brendanisbrendan - 7 years ago [ Reply ]
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Harrodsburg, KY 40330, USA
P.O. Box 314 Harrodsburg Kentucky 40330 United States
We place homeless cats and dogs from the county animal shelter and owner surrender in foster homes as available until they can be adopted. We try to reduce euthanasia rates at the county shelter by reducing their overcrowding. Cat euthanasia rates are still high and we desperatly need cat fosters and adopters. Spay/neuter assistace to those in need. Educate local citizens on animal walfare concerns.


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I was a virgin still and only 15 when my life was to change in a massive way after one incredible day.
It all started when I was at the local baths and I was having a shower, I thought I was the last one in the changing rooms and the hot water splashing on my body made me horny.
I started to play with my cock which was much larger than all my friends at school, it was 7.5" long and nice and thick. I had been thinking more and more about what it was going to be like to fuck my first girl and I was getting a hard on all the time!
Anyway, as I was wanking off much to my horror I heard a voice say "well then boy what do you think you're doing then?"
I tried to cover my hard cock with my hands as I looked up and saw 5 guys who were all in their 30"s all from the local Rugby Team
"Oh god I'm sorry, please don't tell anyone, please I will do whatever you tell me, but don't tell on me I beg you"
"Umm that sounds interesting, ok well then I guess you can start by sucking me and the other guys off" he said.
The thought was disgusting so I refused saying I couldn't do that but anything but that.
"well its either that or it's the Police and your parents, so you choose"
I knew I had no other option so I knelt down in front of him and I could see his cock was about the same size as mine and rock hard. I put my hand around it and slowly started to wank him off and when he told me to lick it again I had no other option and did as I was told.
He soon pushed it between my lips and as he started fucking my mouth I could see the 4 other men all wanking off as they watched me.
"umm you're a natural born cocksucker that feels really good" he said and then a few minutes later I felt his cock grow harder as he buried into my mouth and as he came he told me I had to swallow it all.
It felt warm and milky and tasted a little meaty and salty and after he had finished as soon as he pulled out of my mouth another cock took its place, he didn't take long to cum and when he had finished I was told to lean my head back and open my mouth wide.
The next 2 wanked off shooting their sperm into my mouth and after I swallowed it the last one moved over next to me.
He was African and his black cock was massive easily 11" long and as thick as a small coke bottle and as he pushed it into my mouth he told me " well I hope you like cum sonny because I'm going to give you plenty to drink".
He took his time fucking my mouth for a good 5 minutes and then his cock started firing huge jets of cum again and again and when he finally stopped he must have shot at least 5 times more than all of them. Then without thinking about what I was doing or being told to I started licking all the drops of cum from his cock, "I see you obviously like swallowing my cum" he said and realising what I was doing I was disgusted with myself and stopped.
Before leaving the guy who started it said he hoped I liked it and if I did I should come to his house at 6 for some more fun and told me the address.
As I made my way home I felt ashamed of myself and I tried to convince myself that I hadn't really liked the taste, it was probably just my minds way of dealing with what had happened.
But as the hours went by I couldn't stop thinking about what I'd done and the urge and desire to feel more cum filling my mouth grew stronger and stronger. I tried to fight it but it was no good and at 5.30 I told myself that I was only going to prove that I actually didn't like it.
I soon arrived at a farm house 10 minutes late and as I nervously knocked on the door I noticed that there must be at least 30 cars parked up.
The door opened and he smiled and said he was pleased I was here and said his name was Rob and with a warm friendly smile took my hand and he led me upstairs into a bedroom,
He started to undress and as I did the same he told me he was dying to suck my cock ever since he saw me playing with myself and he told me to lie on the bed and we got into a 69 position.
As he put his hand around my already hard cock I did the same without any hesitation and the sensation I was feeling when for the 1st time in my life my cock was being licked was so powerful I eagerly did the same.
After he had licked up my pre cum he said it tasted lovely and his pre cum also soon covered all of the head and as soon as I swallowed it I loved the taste so much I took him into my mouth and started sucking him off.
Rob gave me some wet lube and I followed his instructions and soon he was moaning with joy in between sucking and licking my cock as I sucked him and fingered his tight hole, so when he asked if I would like to try I was so turned on I agreed.
At first it hurt a little when his finger slid inside me but he said it would soon pass and sure enough it soon did and then it felt really good.
In fact it was so good I soon told him I was going to cum and he started to suck me even harder and also finger fucked me hard and fast and my cock exploded into his mouth.
A few seconds later I felt his cock grow bigger and harder as he buried it deep into my mouth and he fired a thick jet of his warm spunk straight down my throat.
It tasted so good I greedily drank down every bit and when we had finished Cumming I carefully licked his cock clean lapping up every drop of his precious sperm.
He asked me if I liked swallowing his cum and I told him I really loved it and that he could cum in my mouth all day long, great because I have a nice surprise for you".
He then took my hand and with us both still naked he led me down stairs and into a room that was filled with 40 or 50 guys.
I stared in disbelief because all of them where naked and wanking off and as each of them came they shot their load into a glass bowl. After Joe had soon done the same he poured it all into a Pint Glass half filling it.
He explained that to become a member I had to drink a large mouthful of the mixed members cum and gave me the glass. I had counted 40 loads and without hesitation I took a large mouthful which I slowly swirled around my mouth savouring the feel and taste.
After I had gulped it down it tasted so good I drank down mouthful after mouthful until the glass was empty and as they all clapped and cheered I was so horny I said "more, umm please give lots more"
I lay down on the table and a cock was pushed between my lips and at the same time I felt a finger teasing my virgin hole which felt really good until he told me now he was going to fuck me and before I could object he pushed the head inside.
I cried out in agony and Rob quickly told me to try and hold on promising it would soon pass and that then I would love it. I took the cock back into my mouth and tried to ignore the pain by focussing on the cock I was sucking and sure enough suddenly the pain stopped and waves of intense pleasure took over.
Feeling me relax he started sliding his 5 or 6 inch cock in and out fucking me slowly at first and as he fucked me harder and faster the pleasure increased.
When he said he was going to cum I started to suck much harder and at the same time teased his cum filled balls and as the cock inside my arse emptied hot jets of cum the cock in my mouth did the same.
As soon as they pulled out of me 2 more cocks replaced them followed by 2 more and they all took turns cumming in my mouth and spunk filled arse with only 1 member left that hadn't fucked me.
It was the African with the 11" cock and as he pushed inside me it hurt like hell at first and then as I felt his cock stretch me and then slide all the way in and out I was in ecstasy.
He drove it in and out again and again burying his massive fat cock all the way up to his cum filled balls which slapped against my arse. "FUCK ME, UMM FUCK ME HARD AND FILL ME WITH CUM" I cried out with lust.
When both of them had come Rob pushed what he called a But Plug inside me saying it would keep all the cum inside me, The other members all said thank you and goodbye and after they left Rob said
"Well you've been fucked by 40 men and swallowed 80 loads of cum did you enjoy yourself?"
story by: bigrick99
Tags: fiction first time cum swallowing gay group sex sex story
Author: bigrick99


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Production is currently underway on the 23rd film in the James Bond franchise, Skyfall, and Daniel Craig has been spotted filming some cardio-heavy scenes. The first official still from the pic was released a few days ago, in which we saw Craig wielding a gun. These set photos may seem a bit redundant, as they again show Craig as Bond wielding a gun. The actor was apparently filming a scene that required him to run, and he's also wearing a handy-dandy earpiece. Not much is known about the plot, but director Sam Mendes has assembled quite the cast so I'm very much looking forward to the next Bond entry.
Hit the jump to check out the set photos. The film also stars Javier Bardem, Naomie Harris, Ben Chaplin, Judi Dench, Berenice Marlohe, Helen McCroy, Albert Finney, and Ralph Fiennes. Skyfall opens November 9th.
Here's the official synopsis for Skyfall:
Daniel Craig is back as James Bond 007 in Skyfall, the 23rd adventure in the longest-running film franchise of all time. In Skyfall, Bond's loyalty to M (Judi Dench) is tested as her past comes back to haunt her. As MI6 comes under attack, 007 must track down and destroy the threat, no matter how personal the cost.
Images courtesy of Coming Soon and Spoiler TV.


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As 2010 comes to a close, the MESSENGER spacecraft is less than three months from becoming the first ever to enter orbit about Mercury. The coming year 2011 promises to be a historic one for the MESSENGER mission and for the exploration of the Solar System more generally. As we await turning the page on the calendar, let's look back at 12 image highlights from this year:
These images are from MESSENGER, a NASA Discovery mission to conduct the first orbital study of the innermost planet, Mercury. For information regarding the use of images, see the MESSENGER image use policy.


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|A new road opens in front of you
Well, the time has come. These are your final days at school. The exams have finished and now you are all preparing yourselves for the graduation ceremony and the dinner and dance with your classmates, friends and teachers.
This post is just because I wanted to say goodbye to you all and wish you the best luck now that you are about to leave the High School.
As I have not written in this this blog for a whole year I have almost forgotten how to do it. In fact, I am not inspired. So I have searched the Internet to find some useful advice to give you for these important moments that you are living now and for your future life.
I think this is really interesting:
"Your time is limited, so don't waste it living someone else's life. Don't let the noise of others' opinions drown out your own inner voice. And most important, have the courage to follow your heart and intuition." - Steve Jobs
All my love! Good luck!


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This blogs adopts a less formal style than some other submissions, with the intention of encouraging informal member feedback and interaction.
Moment by moment, each positive step taken towards inclusion chisels away at vast histories of discrimination across the world. How might we be pioneers and engage students from backgrounds that offer little access to music education? How do we invite them into our settings? Should we expand our horizons and go out to their locations? Their marginalisation may have been the result of any number of socio-economic and political biases and it may take exceptional courage for us, the students, and their families to supersede these. However, imagine the empowerment of these individuals and communities if we succeed!
Our exploration of pedagogies for learning and applying principles of social justice in music education are surely as varied as the cultures we represent. Hopefully you will enrich our thinking by sharing your approaches. Key pedagogies might include providing opportunities in musical engagement that develop self-reflective and critical thinking, with the ultimate intention of leading towards the expression of student voice and enablement of action. Through analysing, performing, and composing music that addresses socially conscious issues, students may grapple with local and global realities, empathy building, sharing of personal stories, and determining meaningful courses of action. However, for some students, it may be a long journey of developing trust in others and belief in one's own value before expression of voice is even possible. While students may be encouraged to think critically, not all might find it easy to articulate their ideas. The role of teachers may be crucial in helping students develop skills to successfully express their individual or collective voices and follow this through to effective expression in analysing, composing, and performing lyrics and music.
With both individual and community identity being integral to how students perceive themselves and others, our biggest challenge may be in fostering the development of a sense of dignity and worthiness within each member of our diverse populations. Some may carry burdens of family or community bullying, violence, or exclusion. Our sensitivity, paying attention, and caring may become valuable steps towards their healing. Musical communities sharing musical activities offer unique sources for achieving a sense of belonging. Our musical materials provide rich sources for reflection on inclusion or the lack of it. Even the simplest children's games may display opinions on historical, economic, social and religious events and attitudes in the culture. Still, no matter the extent of our efforts to nurture healthy social environments, as teachers we may find our own ignorance and inadequacies (and those of others in our groups) inevitably lead to regrettable oversights and mistakes. I am the first to be guilty of such. But with each time we falter, if we have the courage to forgive ourselves and persevere, there will always be those who need our care. By providing a place of belonging for students in our musical communities, possibilities exist for experiencing healing that may lead to a strong sense of purpose and meaning.
Beyond expanding the diversity of student populations, we also seek to integrate measures of diversity within our curricula. ISME has been challenging its members for decades not to marginalise their own ethnic music, a subject raised again a few months ago in one of these newsletter blogs. Recently, ISME established a new Special Interest Group for Popular Music, an area rapidly gaining status in academic institutions, along the lines experienced decades ago by jazz music. As we proceed in expanding curricular diversity in our settings, we face challenges of avoiding stereotypes and assumptions. Can we improve our skills in applying principles of authenticity and accountability, while also showing respect for the music and its cultural contexts and "owners"?
While specific musical specialties inherently have their own limitations, beyond which they no would longer stay within that specialty, the scope for cultural adventure may yet be substantial. Upholding a motto of respect for those cultures being brought into our curricula may necessitate both expanding our own professional development and soliciting the expertise of specialist teachers in those cultures. Moving outside of our traditional program offerings, we might consider what musical cultures have possibly been designated inferior status in our neighborhoods and find ways to be more inclusive in the courses and programs we offer. As we do, assumptions may be made that non-traditional student populations will walk through our doors. However, without challenging our structures, we may find that access is denied either from the start or along the way. For example, if we decide to integrate a popular musical culture in the curriculum, barriers to access may remain if we don't modify audition processes and entrance examinations requiring skills in more traditional musical cultures. Furthermore, if on-going success is dependent on traditional skills, then student retention in a particular program may be denied.
Each musical culture includes traditions of pedagogy naturally associated with it. We'd do well to pay attention to appropriately integrating relevant approaches, whether literacy- or aural-based learning traditions; masterclass or peer-learning scenarios.
With increasing diversity in music student populations and curricula in many parts of the world, our music teacher education programs might benefit from examining how rigorous their preparations are in these regards. What may seem normal in one part of a city or the world may be very unusual in another. We might challenge ourselves to consider the relevancy of the student socioeconomic populations included in our teaching internships and ask important questions such as:
- What experience do our teachers-in-training have of working with different races, genders, cultures and exceptionalities?
- Do they have opportunities to teach in rural, suburban and urban areas?
- Are they given tools to recognise their own inadequacies and to grow as individuals and professionals in flexibility and adaptability?
- Have they been given opportunities for listening and empathy-building?
- What relevant musical skills and teaching methodologies will they need outside of their own comfort levels?
- Have they developed philosophical approaches that will provide flexible frameworks for focusing not just on musical, but broader social goals?
- Are they equipped musically, psychologically and socially for the populations they will teach?
As teachers, we live in a world of increasing change and challenge, often lurching from one crisis to another. But simultaneously, our capacity to follow our curiosity, exposing our minds to new ways of thinking, and engaging with one another locally and across international borders brings our generations multiple advantages in sharing and celebrating the uniqueness, diversity, and commonality of humankind. May we embrace these in our teaching, empowering students to let their voices be heard and their music impact the world!
Rather than emphasising answers, I have sought to pose questions and offer a few possible suggestions and challenges, while inviting your ideas. Do you have experiences, thoughts or examples to share? Please comment below.


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At Domino's on Doniphan Dr, we make it easy to get exactly what you want: pizza that's fast and fresh. Stop by to place a takeout order, order your pizza online, or give us a call at (915) 845-7500!
Get started by selecting your favorite crust. Choose from a hand-tossed crust that's overflowing with buttery flavor, a crispy thin crust, a pan crust featuring two delicious layers of cheese, or even a gluten-free pizza crust! Then, choose your sauce and your favorite pizza toppings. Whether you're a freak for sausage and mushrooms or love sweet pineapple and tangy feta cheese, you can make your dreams come true at your local Domino's!
We've got slices to suit any taste. How do we know? Because there are more than 34 million ways to craft a single Domino's pizza. Build your own pizza from bottom to top or choose one of our many crowd-pleasing specialty pizzas, like the popular Wisconsin 6 Cheese, Pacific Veggie, or ExtravaganZZa™, and have it delivered to your doorstep, super fast!
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When you order from your Doniphan Dr Domino's, you'll see that we're pretty serious about pizza delivery. We guarantee that your pizza will arrive at your doorstep hot and fresh, straight from our oven. Stay up to date with the status of your order using our custom made TrackerⓇ. Enter in your phone number online and follow the progress of your pizza order from the moment you place it until it arrives at your door... and do your best not to drool on your computer's keyboard in the meantime.
Order online or call (915) 845-7500 now for the best pizza delivery in Texas! Our delivery experts are fast and our pizzas are fresh. We promise!


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In response to the growing use of new and emerging technologies by law enforcement agencies, the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) has released a Technology Policy Framework to help law enforcement executives create policies that support responsible deployment and use.
Technology plays a critical and increasingly important role in the daily work of law enforcement officers in the field, equipping them with enforcement and investigative tools that have the potential to make them safer, better informed, and more effective and efficient. Many communities around the nation, however, have or are considering limiting or even rejecting the use of some technologies, including automated license plate readers, unmanned aerial systems, and video surveillance systems. To promote public confidence and address privacy concerns, the IACP believes it is imperative that law enforcement agencies create and enforce comprehensive agency policies governing the deployment and use of these technologies, and the data they provide. The Technology Policy Framework identifies nine universal principles to guide agencies in the development of effective policies, and suggests factors to incorporate when crafting those policies. The proper implementation and enforcement of policies can help ensure that agencies realize the unique value of technology in contemporary policing, while protecting the privacy, civil rights, and civil liberties of citizens.


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I, Bandit Namprasit, or you can also call me "TOH"...
All photos herein taken by me, YES! I'm a Principle Photographer. I graduated from Archivasilp Art School since 1999 and started to work in this career with the first film camera since 2001.
More than 15 years as a photographer, I devoted myself heart and soul to my work as you are seeing all of them right now. Till now I'm still wander around focus my work on amazing scenery, the different thing is I recently use DSLR camera...that's it!
In year 2010, I have established "Tua-Toh Production Company", which is having 2 outstanding teams; Photography & Cinematography, in order to offer a range of services from wedding photography to commercial projects and all individually tailored made projects to your needs. Confidently, our both teams; who having unique styles and creativity. Allow our team to provide you the right production solution to fit every client brief whether you need a family portrait, a wedding photographer or promotional pictures for your business.
Especially, Wedding Photography, We are rooted in wedding photojournalism that focus on surroundings, nature of human and spontaneous moment as basis, as our principle is the "Real is Worthiness". Your day moves quickly and while you may not have the time to sit back, so during those moments, and especially in between, we're just snapping away to get thousand smiles of peoples, tears, real happiness and natural emotions, not just for a couple, but for all attendance on your big day. Moreover, we're not going to let it slip past of all something old something new something borrowed something blue!
Now we are ready to do amazing photos & cinematography for you all. If anyone does have any questions about our style, our works will speak to you for themselves.
Bandit Namprasit (Toh)
Principle Photographer/Owner
E: [email protected]


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Customizing SMTP Responses
From the ADVANCED > SMTP Responses page in the web interface you can choose to override default SMTP error response messages with customized text. Only ASCII characters are supported. To create the customized text:
- Check the error code line to enable use of an alternate/customized message.
- Edit the default text. You can optionally use one or more of the macros shown in the top section of the page to insert server hostname, client HELO/EHLO, sending client IP address and/or other email message information into the response message.
Use macros from the top of the page to insert customized information such as an IP address. In this example, the phrase your IP is replaced using the ${client[addr]} - sending client IP address macro.
An ISP might want to customize the Need Fully Qualified Address message:


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Textbook Options Provide More Convenience, AffordabilityPublished: September 1, 2010
CSULB's University Bookstore is in full swing, assisting students with orders, answering questions, and keeping its shelves freshly stocked for the start of the Fall semester. Students can still buy traditional textbooks, but the bookstore now offers more options that save students money. From the more traditional used books, to new rental options, and even digital books.
Below are a few of the options available:
Digital Marketplace
The bookstore is participating in a new and innovative pilot program sponsored by the CSU Chancellor's Office called the Digital Marketplace. The Digital Marketplace is dedicated to helping institutions effectively acquire, share, and distribute commercial and noncommercial digital learning content and resources to bring down the cost of educational materials for students. The Digital Marketplace is able to achieve this mission by providing a database of course materials for faculty where they can select their books, not having to rely as heavily on publishers and in turn, selecting books that are either free or very inexpensive for the students. CSULB is only one of five CSU campuses participating in this program and at the current time six instructors are participating, which can potentially benefit more than 800 students. For more information please visit the Digital Marketplace website.
Textbook Express
In August, the bookstore partnered with the University's Enrollment Services to provide a new feature via MyCSULB where students can access their required textbooks. This new program allows students to view all required textbooks from their specific class schedule and even provides the bookstore's prices with ISBN's and other pertinent textbook information. This benefits students by saving time and allowing them to make a purchase at the store, or simply use that information to shop around off-campus. This new MyCSULB feature has received more than 35,500 hits through the month of August.
Textbook Rentals – Powered by Chegg
The bookstore is also launching a new venture with Chegg textbook rental, just in time for the Fall semester. Through Chegg, students can choose to rent textbooks, saving them potentially hundreds of dollars. Chegg offers more than 2,500 CSULB titles and comes with a 30-day "any reason" guarantee. If a class is cancelled or a student drops a class, they will be able to return the book hassle free. For added convenience, students will be able to rent their books directly from Chegg through the store's website or can choose to place an order in-person at any Chegg kiosk located inside the bookstore. Books can be shipped or delivered for pick-up at the store.
Digital Books
The bookstore has partnered with JumpBooks (via CourseSmart), to offer more digital books as an alternative to traditional textbooks. JumpBooks are the same version of a textbook, but are accessible in a downloadable format, or available on the web. Digital books can be viewed or printed directly from a computer and are an affordable alternative for many students. Each semester, the store continues to expand its selections and offers more digital books to students. JumpBooks may come with viewing limitations depending on the version a student purchases. For example, some programs only provide access specific for that semester (about 180 days). To learn more about JumpBooks, visit its website.


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1 Box dry cake mix of your choice (I used a yellow cake mix)
1 Box dry instant pudding mix (I used chocolate)
1 1/2 sticks butter, softened
3 eggs
Sprinkles or chocolate chips if desired (I used chocolate sprinkles)Mix all ingredients together well. Drop by spoonful or roll into 1″ balls and place on cookie sheet. Bake at 350 degrees for 10 to 12 minutes. Let sit for 1 minute on the pan, then move to a cooling rack. Enjoy!


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Celebrity chef Anthony Bourdain of No Reservations fame is visiting San Francisco, according to his Twitter feed. And where does a famous chef choose to eat his lunch?
Bourdain just posted this photo on Twitter, and SF Weekly's resident food experts have determined it was probably taken at the Swan Oyster Depot. Looks like he's having some seafood stew -- maybe it's the off-the-menu TV-superstar special we heard about last month.
But that's not all he's been up to.
If his Twitter feed is to be trusted, Bourdain has been in S.F. since Monday at least. Yesterday, he sampled Chaac-Mool's stand in Dolores Park, which he described as "terrific, freshly made Mexican food," followed by "festive beverages" at Toronado.
Last night, he went barhopping in North Beach and Chinatown, with the obligatory late-night munchies stop:
Li Po, the Comstock, Mr. Bing's , then Sam's Burgers. Woke up with brain ache, covered in mustard.
Stay tuned -- we might just Twitter-stalk him all day.


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MADE TO ORDER - 5 to 6 week lead time
We designed the object collection to bring style and function to some of our daily rituals. The spoon and cellar are the first release in this new series.
The spoon was first carved in wax and then cast in metal using the lost wax casting method. Each spoon is slightly unique because of this handmade process.
The cellar is wheel thrown by our friend and collaborator, Lindsey Lynch, of rabbit rabbit ceramics. Each of her pieces is completely unique, with slight variation in width and height. We currently have just one left in the blue color way and we will continue to stock the white through the holidays.
(All photos by Lindsey as well! What!? So talented right?)
We love the truly one-of-a-kind nature of these sets and can't wait to see them become a part of your home. Please tag your photos #seaworthyobjects - so we can see how you're using them.
These items are meant for use with dry products such as salt, sugar, coffee, etc. They are not for use as toys or for children under 12. Please hand wash these items and dry with a soft cloth.
Brass and sterling silver can oxidize over time. The slight hue can be removed using an all metal polishing cloth. Click here for more info on the metals we use and how to take care of them.
Each order comes with a small polishing cloth.
You can order additional cloths here: Sunshine polishing cloth.
Our average lead time is 5 to 7 days for the order to ship. The shipping time will depend on the shipping option you choose.
Made to order items usually take 5 to 6 weeks to make. Items will ship after this window.
Lead times for custom sizes or custom stone rings take about 4 to 6 weeks to ship. Please email firstname.lastname@example.com to inquire about specific timelines
Please allow 3 to 4 weeks for 14k gold styles or fine jewelry styles that need to be resized before shipping.
If for any reason the item doesn't work for you, we offer returns for store credit within 14 days of package delivery. We do not offer cash refunds. We do not accept returns on sale items or items purchased during sample/second sales. Email firstname.lastname@example.com to make arrangements.
Thank you!
Add a greeting card to your order here. Then leave the message you want us to write in the card in the Order Notes section of checkout. We will include your personal message in the order!
Want it gift wrapped too? Add that to the order notes as well.
Can't decide what to gift? Give the gift of choice with one of our virtual gift cards.


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Follow us on Twitter!
Diamond Diaries - @DiamondDiaries
Angela - @Cardschic
Erika - @Erika4stlcards
Cardinal baseball, from the girls
If you clicked this tab, you either made a mistake and are now frantically searching for an escape (click on the HOME tab, upper left) or you have some time to kill and are a little curious who I am and why I am writing about baseball and the Cardinals.
My original "About Me" post which you can still read at the end of this page, was written a while back and explains how I came to fall in love with baseball, but it was in need of revision since I no longer feel like the "baby fan" I was just a few years back.
After roughly five years of in-depth, almost daily study of all things Cardinals, I have settled into a comfortable condition many of you are already familiar with: well-informed baseball fan. I treasure the fact that through my discovery of baseball, I have brought along a few new fans (my kids and my Mom, especially) and helped to reignite the passion of some whose love of the game may have become buried under years of neglect.
There is no denying the magic of baseball, the appeal of the simplicity of the game as well as the complexities of the games within the game. Baseball can be loved by anyone and everyone for as many different reasons as there are fans. And as I have learned this season (2011), baseball meets you where you are. You can be a hungry fan, digging for details, dissecting lineups and every managerial move. Or, when life steps in and demands priority, you can meet-up and get reacquainted over boxscores and highlight videos. Baseball is a steady constant (at least from April through October) in a world that sometimes spins a little too fast. And baseball can surprise you too! The 2011 Cardinals reminded us that it isn't over 'til it's over, and what a ride it was! World Series Champions, when nobody thought they could do it!
The 2011 season was different for me in many regards: With a continued drive to understand more of the how's and why's of the Cardinal organization, I kept a close eye on the minor leagues and player development, from the Rookie Leagues on up to AAA Memphis. After several of my favorite Cardinals moved on to other teams through trades and free agency, I adopted step teams. My baseball world keeps expanding. More to learn, more to love!
So, enough waxing poetic about life and baseball! In a nutshell…
I am wife to a fabulous, supportive guy and mom to two of the best kiddos in the world. We live near Oklahoma City where we catch the AAA Memphis Redbirds whenever they visit our downtown Bricktown Ballpark. I've been lucky to be able to combine my love of baseball with my other hobby, photography; and my favorite photo gigs have been shooting baseball games with credentials and the freedom to roam the park and shoot from the photo wells at AAA games. This January (2012) Diamond Diaries was invited by the Cardinals to help cover Winter Warm-Up, a dream-come-true.
My favorite Cardinals (this year) are Matt Holliday (who bares a striking resemblance to my husband), David Freese (fell in love with him back in 2009) and Daniel Descalso (another Memphis player I've watched grow up to be a Cardinal). Submarine pitchers mesmerize me, and I usually plan my Spring Training trip in December (because that is what I ask Santa for every year.)
You can find me on Twitter under username @Erika4stlcards. Stop by, say "Hi," and talk some baseball.
Links to some of my photos of the Cardinals and Memphis Redbirds, are here:
Memphis Redbirds in OKC 2011 and again in 2011.
Now, if you would still like to read my original "About Me" section….
How I Became a Cardinal Fan (written Spring 2010)
I love Cardinals baseball and often joke that I am addicted or obsessed with it. Honestly, there is more than a little truth in that humor. Over the past few years I have gone from baseball-illiterate to a dedicated student of the game. My journey to becoming a true Cardinals fan has been fast and furious, and I have loved every moment.
In the past year, I have met some wonderful baseball fans. Inevitably our conversations lead to the question: "How did you become a Cardinals fan?" The answers they've shared usually involve childhood memories of baseball experiences or a geographical connection to St. Louis. My story takes a different path.
So, if you want the short answer to "How Erika became a baseball fan," it would be "a really good foot rub." If you want more details, the rest of this is for you.
Before 2009, my knowledge of Cardinal team history was nonexistent. Stan Musial, Bob Gibson, Lou Brock, Ozzie Smith, Red Schoendienst and Whitey Herzog? For all I knew, they could have been our city councilmen. As a child, I had no stuffed Fredbird and had never seen Busch Stadium. In fact, I grew up in Oklahoma and can claim absolutely no St. Louis roots in my family tree. Sure, I did know the basics of baseball…my Dad played softball on the church league and I watched him play many games. However, beyond that, baseball never got a second glance.
It's actually a good thing that I wasn't introduced to baseball earlier in life. I was able to complete a college degree, enjoy my job, get married and start a family without my now daily need for a 'baseball fix' Those were good years. And I look back on my baseball-free life with fond memories.
My husband's friends all tell him he should write a book: "How to Get Your Wife to Like Baseball: So She will Order Sports Packages on TV, Talk Ball and Go To Baseball Games Instead of Chick Flicks." He takes credit for introducing me to baseball, and looking back, it seemed pretty harmless at the time.
To start this off right, we have to go back just 4 1/2 years:
In 2005, my husband was what you'd call a 'postseason baseball fan'. He'd catch up with baseball in October, when the grueling day-to-day summer schedules were over and television audiences settled in to watch (what was supposed to be) the best baseball teams playing the best baseball games of the season. One October evening, Hubby suggested we watch baseball on tv. I'm sure I hated that idea and complained that baseball was boring. However, being the good negotiator that he is, Hubby offered what he knew I would never refuse: a foot rub. And so I gave up the fight and let him watch the game, while I read a book on the couch, with my happy feet.
It wasn't love at first sight, me and baseball. In fact, I know I did not see any of that night's game. But the next evening Hubby offered up another foot rub bribe, and I did not turn it down. This time I may have even heard a few calls and seen a few swings of the bat, if I had looked up from my book. So, with his secret weapon that cured my tired feet, Hubby was able to convince me to sit through two weeks of baseball leading up to the World Series. It was during those mid-October games that I was first exposed to the sights and sounds of Cardinals baseball as the Cards beat the Padres in the NLDS and then lost to the Astros in the NLCS.
Hubby was amused that the foot rubs were working as my interest in the games started to show, but even he would agree I was hardly a 'fan'. In fact, embarrassing as it is to admit this now, I chose to cheer for the White Sox to beat the Astros in the World Series entirely because I liked their uniforms better.
Hubby got his first real warning sign at 2 AM on the night of Game 3 of the 2005 World Series. For that game, Hubby was MIA – on a business trip in Kansas. Little did he know, I was watching the White Sox play the Astros — all by myself, with no foot rub for incentive! It turned out to be the longest World Series game in history (5 hours and 41 minutes). I had fought off sleep, too stubborn to give up without witnessing the conclusion. The game finally ended, after what felt like an eternal 14 innings, with the boys in the better uniforms beating the Astros. It was then, with an uncharacteristic late-night phone call from me to relive (of all things) a baseball game, that Hubby realized his world had changed: his wife had discovered baseball!
Although 2005 brought my first baseball adventure, the 2006 postseason ignited my true love – Cardinals baseball. As a fledgling baseball fan, I had randomly selected to cheer for the Cardinals, probably because the Mets were favored to win and I am a sucker for an underdog. I still remember that 'lost' feeling – not recognizing any players and not knowing much about the rules or strategy of the game.
In an effort to 'connect' with the team without jumping in over my head, I started out choosing one player on whom to focus. I learned a bit about him and cheered his every at bat. While Cardinal Nation and baseball's postseason audience were watching the Cardinals battle the Mets, I was watching Yadier Molina, the young kid with a baby face whose intense love of playing baseball was undeniably contagious. I know what you're thinking… but no, it was not because I thought Yadi was a "baseball hottie". I was attracted to his 'spark' – that genuine excitement for the game – and I was mesmerized watching that future Gold Glove in action behind the plate.
The baseball bug had bitten, but Game 7 sealed the deal. For Cardinals fans, Game 7 of the 2006 NLCS is the backdrop for the spectacular tale of rookie Adam Wainwright's historic game-ending strikeout of Carlos Beltran in a bases loaded, nail-biter, bottom of the 9th inning to clinch the National League pennant. But I remember Game 7 for the other story. My chosen player on my underdog team had a very big moment. In the top of the 9th, the game was tied; and young Yadi, surprising himself and just about everyone else, hit a 2-run homerun to give the Cardinals the lead. That was the moment that a Cardinals victory became 'my' victory. I was watching from a hotel television while the man who takes credit for my baseball obsession was fast asleep. I had never cheered so fully and honestly for a professional athlete as I did for Yadier Molina that night. I had become a fan.
And as if celebrating the pennant wasn't enough to hook me for life, baseball blessings rained down as Yadi – along with Albert Pujols, Jim Edmonds, Scott Rolen, David Eckstein and the rest of the 2006 Cardinals roster – played outstanding baseball to defeat the Detroit Tigers in 5 games and capture the World Series Championship. It was baseball nirvana, and having witnessed it, I was forever changed.
From that point on, the rest of my story is easier to predict. The new baseball fan's team wins the World Series, inspiring further devotion. The next season brings the addiction of winning games plus the tragedy of loss in close games, as well as the familiarization with the players — all these combine to deepen the connection. Add in genuine curiosity, intense loyalty and the drive to learn more about what I love, and you have an understanding of how my fascination with the St. Louis Cardinals evolved so rapidly.
Since then I've expanded my cast of Cardinals favorites, fell in love with many, and mourned when some left us. I now follow games from the beginning of Spring training through the entire season, causing my husband to complain that I might be watching too much baseball! My interest in 'all things Cardinals' has extended to the AAA Memphis Redbirds, and I've enjoyed following some of those minor leaguers (affectionately called our Baby Birds) on their journey to the Big Leagues.
Each season I find more reasons to enjoy the game. Last year, Brendan Ryan's lovable quirkiness and amazing defensive acrobatics added a special energy to the team, reminiscent of Yadi's 'spark' that first drew me in. This year I'm delighting in the excitement of cheering on a rookie, our 3rd baseman, David Freese. Twitter has definitely been a fun way to enjoy games with other fans, and I just know this year's team will give us a lot of greatness to tweet about! Four years ago I thought baseball was boring. Now I am a devoted fan of Cardinals baseball… all because I couldn't refuse a good foot rub!
Erika, that is one great story! Thanks for sharing!
Pingback: Top Seven Baby Birds | I-70 Baseball
Erika, will you be coming to Winter Warmup in Jan 2013???


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Toxins can be a real drain to our system so why not drain them?
Lymphatic drainage uses a light, rhythmical massage that encourages our system to eliminate metabolic waste products, excess fluids, and bacteria. This results in detoxing of the lymph nodes and a boost to the immune system. This modality is used to enhance the immune system functioning. It also benefits: reduces edema, increases metabolism. Additional benefits include pain reduction and feelings of deep relaxation.
Please note that in some cases, we may have additional availability beyond what is bookable online. Please call (212) 219-2527 ext. 2 to inquire.


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Ok, so this has nothing to do with essential oils, but it's ok to divert from time to time, right? Let's talk about healthy alternative options to buffalo chicken bites. You hate cauliflower? No problem! I promise, the buffalo sauce will over power any cauliflower taste and the texture disappears when cooked.
Let me give you a small back story. December 2016 I decided to give up meat. Which means, I have had to get a little creative with my meals because eating a salad for every meal gets old. I will be honest, I really disliked cauliflower before this recipe. But this recipe has given me hope. Buffalo chicken used to be one of my favorites before I became a vegetarian so I had to give it a try. I made this for my whole family on the 4th of July – about 10 people – and everyone loved it and raved over it. It tastes great by itself or dipped in a dressing.
1 medium cauliflower
1 cup flour
1 cup water
2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
4 tablespoons butter, melted
1 1/3 cup Buffalo hot sauce
1. Preheat oven to 450 degrees
2. Cut cauliflower into bite-sized pieces
3. Spray cookie sheet with cooking spray
4. In a large bowl whisk flour, water, garlic powder, salt and pepper.
5. Add cauliflower and toss to coat. (I like to place in a bag to shake)
6. Spread evenly onto cookie sheet and place in oven.
7. Bake for 7 minutes and flip. Bake for another 8 minutes.
8. Remove from the oven.
9. In a separate bowl stir together melted butter and buffalo sauce.
10. Coat the cauliflower.
11. Spread evenly onto the cookie sheet.
12. Place in the oven and bake for 15 minutes and flip. Bake for another 15 minutes
13. Remove from oven and let sit 10 minutes


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I'm on birth control that allows me the joy of only having my period 4 times each year. I've always limited my physical activity during the week of my period (except in high school when sports teams dictated my activity schedule). I've been really good about exercising 5-6 times per week for awhile now, and I didn't want to break that pattern this week especially since I didn't work out like I wanted to in NY. I also knew I'd have to take yesterday off from exercise since I had to be at work from 7:30-6. Tuesday I went to the gym and did a short elliptical warm up followed by a really good, long strength session. Wednesday I really wanted to just go to the mountain. It's good cardio without having to run/simulate running on a machine. I drove to the mountain, got out of my car, and heard thunder followed by lightning in the distance.
I made the smart choice and got back in my car. I debated just going home, but knew I'd feel guilty later. I went to the gym and decided to try the treadmill again. I've used them in the past and never really felt comfortable on them. I was proud of myself for giving it another shot. I know it's important to do different activities for exercise so your body doesn't get used to any one thing. I started slow and read an ebook on my phone for my warm up. I kept steadily increasing both the incline and speed as I got more comfortable, but I never felt comfortable enough to let go with my hands! I got the machine up to its highest incline. I can tell that I hike a mountain once a week because it barely phased me. When I finished I didn't feel like I'd worked as hard as when I do the mountain or another cardio machine, but I was glad I did something and tried something different. I also felt weird for a few minutes after getting off, is that normal? I'm hoping today to get to the mountain but the forecast isn't promising. I brought both sets of sneakers, just in case I can get there!
We typically eat a lot of beans and Latin inspired dishes, and when I planned our menu this week I tried to avoid that to mix it up. This made me realize two things: I love beans, and although tofu is growing on me I don't want to eat it every day. Tuesday night we had salads. I made BBQ tempeh and sauteed squash (from our garden!!) and corn to go on top. It wasn't my best batch of tempeh. I just read a blog post that suggested steaming it first (the way you'd steam a vegetable) before you saute it with sauce. I'm definitely going to try that next time I make tempeh.
|BBQ tempeh salad
Wednesday night we made Asian dishes. I had a tofu stir fry with no grains, and Carly made shrimp fried rice. For both of us I chopped onion, red cabbage, portabellas, broccoli, snow peas, scallions, and kimchi. We each made a double batch because we knew we'd be getting home at dinner time last night. Mine was excellent! When I first started trying to lose weight I made Asian stir fries at least twice a week. I think we got burned out on them then because we don't make them as much anymore, but I'm definitely going to keep them in the rotation.
|I'm a good sous chef!
|Tofu stir fry
Our free time has definitely been dominated by Olympics. I have mixed feelings about them being almost over. I'm sad that I have to wait four years but glad to not feel the pressure of watching them constantly so I don't miss anything! I love sports and get so inspired by watching people push through life's obstacles to achieve great things. I wish there was an adult rec sports league around here but I haven't been successful in finding one. I'd love to play basketball or soccer or even kickball once a week. Maybe in the future if we move to or closer to a city!


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MYBA The Worldwide Yachting Association has named Barcelona and OneOcean Port Vell as the next hosts for the annual Mediterranean MYBA Charter Show, for the next three consecutive years, beginning in 2017.
The next host location has been the subject of discussion for for some time, with the association listening carefully to both its board members and the wider superyacht industry. After multiple surveys and discussions, the board established a short list comprising Nice, Genoa and Barcelona.
The decision that Barcelona host the next Charter Show, a decision which MYBA has stated has been in part financial, is interesting, as Spain has been the focus of the Mediterranean charter discussion for some time, largely due to industry-wide confusion pertaining to the much-discussed Spanish Matriculation Tax. However, OneOcean Port Vell manager Paul Cook has highlighted "the easing of legislation on Spanish charters" which, he states, "has had a positive impact on the demand for chartering and cruising in the region".
OneOcean Port Vell
The 2017 MYBA Charter Show will be held across OneOcean Port Vell's four quays: Spanish Quay, Barceloneta Quay, Deposit Quay and Sota Muralla Quay, offering exhibitors 930m of space, the majority of which lies directly in front of the superyacht berths. In fact, it's the sizable possibilities this location can offer, namely the ability to berth 68 yachts ranging from 22m to 190m, that MYBA has highlighted as one of the deciding factors. Not to mention ease of accessibility for attendees, with daily flights from 182 destinations, arriving at the airport just a 25 minute drive from the marina itself.
There is of course a desire that in placing Barcelona on the superyacht charter map in this way, more market opportunities will arise, as James Graham-Cloete, chair of the MYBA Charter Shows Panel, explains: "MYBA hopes that bringing the show to Barcelona will further speed up and enhance any progress in opening up the charter market and regulations in these attractive cruising grounds."
Profile links
MYBA The Worldwide Yachting Association
If you like reading our Editors' premium quality journalism on SuperyachtNews.com, you'll love their amazing and insightful opinions and comments in The Superyacht Report. If you've never read it, click here to request a sample copy - it's 'A Report Worth Reading'. If you know how good it is, click here to subscribe - it's 'A Report Worth Paying For'.


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Guess Which Ridiculous '80s Show is Heading to the Big Screen Now
Around these parts, we like to call 1983 "The Year When Simon MacCorkindale Almost Ruled the World." The handsome English actor not only starred in a feature film that year (the absolutely awful Jaws 3D), but he was also poised to take over television by headlining a brand new series for NBC entitled Manimal. Unfortunately, Manimal might be even more awful than Jaws 3D – and the Year of MacCorkindale ended just as quickly as it began.
However, nothing is ever truly dead in a Hollywood hellbent on remaking every cruddy TV show and movie from the time when Ronald Reagan was in office and the threat of nuclear armageddon hung over us like a dark cloud. For years now, we've been waiting for the day when some brave studio stepped up and announced that they were ready to make a big screen version of Manimal – and today, that finally happened.
THR reports that Sony Animation is exploring plans to craft a feature film mixing CGI and live action based on the show – a show that ran for eight episodes before being yanked from the airwaves and consigned to the annals of bad television history. If you even remember Manimal, odds are you know it mostly because it's a punchline to some joke about awful television shows and not because you actually watched it. I had the good (mis?) fortune to catch all the episodes when they originally aired – and I've never forgotten the experience.
MacCorkindale played Professor Jonathan Chase, a dashing academic who spent time in Africa…where he apparently learned the ability to shape-shift into any animal he could think of. Naturally, he used this power to solve crimes – because that's what everyone did in the '80s. Have a talking Trans-Am? Use it to solve crimes. Have an AI program that can generate a hologram who can leave the computer and interact with the real world? Use him to solve crimes. Have a man who can turn into the Honey Badger at will? You see where this is going…
We're not sure who at Sony decided that a Manimal film was a good idea, but we do know that the project is currently out to writers to see what they can come up with. Unfortunately, a new Manimal will have to move forward without MacCorkdindale, as the actor passed away in 2010.
This does beg the question – what will Hollywood try to adapt next? Our money is on an updating of The Master, wherein Lee Van Cleef was a ninja training an apprentice played by Timothy Van Patten and squaring off against Sho Kosugi. That show might have been the perfect encapsulation of the early '80s – but we think the studios might have missed a great tie-in opportunity. Think of how that film might have fit in with Paul Thomas Anderson's movie of the same name…the synergy could have been amazing.
Kidding aside, does anyone other than me remember Manimal? Would you really want to see a feature film update of a show that was so bad it lasted a mere eight episodes? Check out the intro for the series below and let us know what you think.
Movies.com, the ultimate source for everything movies, is your destination for new movie trailers, reviews, photos, times, tickets + more! Stay in the know with the latest movie news and cast interviews at Movies.com.
Copyright © 2020 FANDANGO MOVIES.


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|Version 7 (modified by 15 years ago) ( diff ),
Trac IRC Channel (#trac on freenode)
We've registered an IRC channel on the freenode network for informal Trac discussions, asking questions or just hanging out,"socializing".
The channel is '''#trac''' on irc.freenode.net .
Drop by if you are interested in the development of Trac, have a quick question or just want to get to know the people developing and using it.
Note: See TracWiki for help on using the wiki.


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V60 Dripper set Transparent Black
Sold Out
Product Details
The best way to get started with making better coffee at home. We've worked with Hario Japan to produce this UK exclusive starter pack to get you brewing pourover coffee at home in no time.
Including an iconic V60 "funnel" coffee maker, a matching coffee scoop and 40 filter papers, this set has everything you need to make your first cup of filter coffee at home (just add coarsely ground coffee).
- 1x Black Transparent 02 Dripper
- 1x Black Coffee Scoop
- 40x Filter Papers
- W137 x D116 x H102mm
- 1 - 4 Cup Capacity


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Another really fun night. I turned up at FROG just as Ludes were about to go on stage, the gig was superb, the band seemed to get really into playing and the crowd responded accordingly which resulted in plenty of dancing, climbing of the walls and running through the crowd. After the gig I went backstage to say hello to the band and ended up jumping in the van with them for the journey to the squat party in Peckham.
The squat was crazy, tell me if I'm missing something here, but last time I went to a squat party it was rough, they only played house music and everyone was on drugs. Being burdened with these preconceptions it was then a great shock to walk into a relatively decadently furnished warehouse filled with indie kids dancing to Kate Bush and the Killers. The rest of the evening is hazy so I'll make the description as succinct as I can, Ludes played, I drank, took some pictures, talked to various folks and then in the early hours of the morning returned to Camden.
I'll leave you with the FROG pictures and a request: Next time any of you hear there's going to be another one of these indie squat parties please let me know.


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Cheaply made, but fun while it lasted; easy to damage the switch.
The best use this had for me was to wear it as a ring, turned upside down in my hand, all while going down on my husband. It really did not appeal to us for much else. I would sell this for $2.99, and then it would feel more worth the price.
Made from silicone, an easy to take care of item, soft, and comfortable.
Cheaply made bullet, hairs catch easily, not worth more than a free gift.
This is a beginners toy, for sure. Honestly, the vibrations from this were only enough for testicle stimulation and were nowhere near being strong enough to please me (the wife). I decided to put it on my middle finger instead, and to wear it like an upside down ring. When I wore it like that, that was when things started to get fun.
Material / Texture
Made of TPR Silicone (so please, only water based lube), this toy is hypo-allergenic, latex free, and Phthalates free. This is one stretchy bugger. It is sooth in texture and is very slippery when lubricated. When slick it is a little tricky to handle. It is a very nice, transparent, purple and pink color and has a pink, plastic bullet in the tip. The material has a very nice, seamless feel and the give makes it a very comfortable ring to wear. Do not expect it to be tight enough to have staying power, as that just will not happen. When not moist or lubricated, this bad boy gets kind of sticky, so beware of lint or fur if you are a pet owner.
Shape / Design / Size / Fit
This toy is made of a clear, purple-pink TPR silicone. This cock ring stretches to a max of 4 to 5 inches. When sitting just on its own it is a steady 1/2". It would fit over just the shaft, or it can fit over both the shaft and testicles.
Functions / Performance / Controls
The small bullet inside the top of the ring has a small, simple, on and off switch. Handle this with care, because if it is turned off or on to vigorously you will start to have troubles with the switch. I have to say that the vibrations were not all that impressive. This is a one time use product unless you will be cleaning it, removing the bullet, and using one of your own.
Personal comments
I have to say that I am glad that this was a free gift with order. I honestly can not say I would ever pay the $5.99 for this after knowing about its performance. I would suggest taking off a couple bucks from the price tag, and then I would be content with what it cost.
Follow-up commentary 9 days after original review
This little bugger has its uses, but I am honestly glad it was a free gift. The On/Off switch breaks too easily.
This content is the opinion of the submitting contributor and is not endorsed by EdenFantasys.com
Thanks for sharing!
Thanks for your review.
Thanks for the review!
These actually work pretty good if you remove the little cheap bullet that it comes with and insert a good bullet from EF. One of the Colt ones is what we prefer....Thanks for the review!!
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Your faithful servant is a man of limited intellectual powers, often amazed by what he learns from his betters. And so, once more we find ourselves amazed after reading a recent post of one of our fellow bloggers, Brad Kuhn who runs the California Eminent Domain blog. Mr. Kuhn purports to tell us why condemnors submit one appraiser's opinion of value in support of obtaining an order for [pretrial] possession, and then, when trial rolls around, offer a second appraisers' testimony, in a lower amount. Why would they do that? Good question with a rational, if sneaky answer.
This practice, often known as "lowballing" or "sandbagging," has nothing to do with fluctuations in market value, as Mr. Kuhn thinks. For one thing, when a condemnor makes a deposit, that freezes the date of value, so market fluctuations from that point on have no effect on valuation. Typically, condemnees withdraw the deposit so they can acquire substitute property to which to move when the subject property is physically taken from them by an OIP or otherwise. So when months later, trial takes place, and time comes to put on real, admissible evidence of value, condemnors can bring in another appraiser who testifies to a value lower than the earlier deposit value, thus putting the condemnee under unfair pressure. If he goes to trial now, he risks a verdict that may be lower than the deposit, which would require him to refund a part of the money he withdrew and probably spent on a replacement property.
This practice is so old that it was cautioned against by the late Dick Huxtable in the 1960 edition of the CEB California Condemnation Practice, CLE book, (§12.24, pp. 243-244) and was repeated in the 1973 edition. (§9.57, at pp. 244-245), as well as the current one. There have even been cases in which condemnors had the chutzpa to try and pull this "sandbagging" routine by using one appraiser who testified to one figure for purposes of fixing the deposit, and the same appraiser trying to use another [lower] figure in trial. County of Contra Costa v. Pinole Point Properties, 27 Cal.App.4th 1105 (1994), and see Community Redevelopment Agency v. World Wide Enterprises, No. B122176 (2000) (opinion vacated when condemnor settled).
In spite of this history, Mr. Kuhn would have it that:
"While some may wonder why the agency's appraisal at the time of the expert exchange was significantly less than its initial appraisal and offer, this is actually becoming more and more common, especially over the last few years in a declining real estate market. The reason is usually due to the parties' using a date of value for the eminent domain action that is months (and sometimes over a year) after the completion of the initial appraisal, so as the market continued to dive, so did the impacted property's value. Also, agencies rarely use the same appraiser for trial that they use for the initial appraisal/offer, so with a new appraiser typically comes a difference in opinion."
But if history is any guide, condemnors' motivation is not necessarily so pure. Why would they knowingly use an outdated appraisal to establish a deposit? Isn't that deposit supposed to be a good faith estimate of the "just compensation" that is constitutionally due? And why did they also do that in the olden days when land values in California were going up? The reasons for condemnors' value evidence manipulation usually have nothing to do with market conditions; as noted, it's an unfair way of putting condemnees under pressure — not exactly something that is consistent with "fairness and justice" that the courts tell us is the essence of eminent domain proceedings. And besides, aren't condemnors required by law to make offers that represent fair market value, which is statutorily defined as the highest value the subject property would bring in a voluntary market transaction?


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Art Contests for Kids
Art Contests for Kids
Do your kids love art? Did you know there are a number of art contests for kids online? Most are free to enter, and some give away really great prizes. My children have entered several online contests – and even won a few! The prizes they received included ribbons, certificates, and gift cards.
If you're looking for some art contests for your children, here a few you might be interested in:
Teachers Against Prejudice Art Contest
This contest is for all elementary students in grades one through four, and the theme this year is "Living Together in Peace." Students are encouraged to create a piece of artwork showing what that would look like to them. October 15, 2014 is the deadline!
Entrants will be divided into two groups based on age, with first place and second place prizes given out in each group. First place winners will receive $150 cash; second place winners will receive $100 cash.
Get to Know Your Wild Neighbors
This contest is open now and runs through November 1, 2014. Not only does it involve art, but writing, photography, music, and videography as well. Kids 19 and under can enter as many categories as they want. The goal of this contest is to get kids outside and inspired by nature.
There are lots of prizes for this contest too, including digital cameras, video cameras, art supplies, and magazine subscriptions.
Space Foundation Student Art Contest
This contest opens August 1, 2014. The theme for this next contest is "The View from My Spaceship." Students are to interpret the theme however they like and create an original piece of artwork.
The Space Foundation gives out 25 awards. There are eight age categories from 3 to 18, and each category has a first, second, and third place winner. A special Space Foundation Achievement Award is also given out. Prizes include a certificate, a ribbon, a personalized autograph from an astronaut, and a prize.
Do your children enter art contests? What contests have they entered?


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Back to Previous
East Lansing, MI 48823
Phone: (517) 853-5800
Visit Website
Los Tres Amigos - East Lansing1227 E. Grand River Ave.
East Lansing, MI 48823
Phone: (517) 853-5800
Visit Website
Start your experience with our fresh homemade chips and salsa and be sure to try one of our imported Mexican beers. For your main course consider the fajitas, if you prefer chicken, beef or shrimp they're all great. Make sure to save room for something sweet, whether it's fried ice-cream or an authentic flan, or any other selection from our large dessert menu. Our food is prepared daily and our sauces are made from scratch using our own special recipes. All our dishes are meticulously prepared with an authentic, yet mild flavor and for those who like it hot we feature our special recipe hot sauce. Meeting space available.
Credit Cards Accepted:
- Banquet/Meeting Facilities:
- Free WiFi:
- Group Rates/Discounts:
- Handicapped Access/ADA Compliant:
- Reservations Accepted:
- Hours of Operation: Open Mon.–Sat. 11 a.m.–11 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.–11 p.m.
- Average Dinner Price ($ = <$15, $$ = >$15): $
- Full Service Bar:
- Brunch:
- Lunch:
- Dinner:
- Catering:
- Groups of 10 or more:
- Number of Private Rooms: 1
- Outdoor Seating:


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Buy It Now: $4.99
We're really trying to figure out why you would ever need a to-go trash can. They already have them at tailgates, you better be using a real garbage can in your actual garage, and keeping a used trash can in your car is just disgusting. Maybe you could use it as a laundry bin for your home?
Also Watch


text: Sometimes we sit around at Engadget HQ and do informal, anonymous surveys of our favorite gadgets of all time. Cell phones are unsurprisingly always at the top of the list. But the bow and arrow always comes in a close second -- call us closet traditionalists. Anyway, seems like a gang in Sao Paulo trained a 17-year-old to shoot arrows with cell phones strapped to the tips over a prison wall to communications-starved inmates. Apparently the misguided teen got at least four phones in before he fired one at a cop's back. Whoops! Still, dang. We much prefer this practicality of this old-new mashup to, say, steampunk flash drives.\n[Image credit: Robert van der Steeg's flickr]


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How does it work?
Getasms is an online application that can send batch SMS messages easily. It's suitable for both individuals and professionals who use SMS mobile marketing. Programming an SMS alert gives you the ability to automatically send regular messages. By sending statistics, the sender verifies the success of the operation in real time.
What is it for?
Give brief and relevant information to clients
Start a short-term promotion
Recall an event, a demonstration
Reach customers at the right time
How to try it?
Test the product for free and open an account to send SMS messages around the world.


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Brave daughter who was abused by her dad commits suicide days after she helped nail the beast in court
Dawn McCormick, 42, was one of five victims whose evidence convinced a jury to convict evil Richard McCormick, 69
A DAUGHTER abused by her dad killed herself days after helping nail the beast in court.
Brave Dawn McCormick, 42, was one of five victims whose evidence convinced a jury to convict evil Richard McCormick, 69.
A friend told of her pride in Dawn after she courageously relived her horrific childhood ordeal in court
But she said the strain of the trial and her father's cruel denial of her claims tipped her over the edge.
The pal said last night: "Dawn always thought he would get away with what he did. It was like it was one last battle for her.
"Her evidence helped convict him. Without her, he would have walked.
"She finally stood up to her father, but then she ran out of strength. I have no doubt the tipping point for her was the trial.
"Her courage should be recognised."
The friend said she had prayed Dawn would be able to move on with her life and find peace after McCormick was convicted on eight charges of indecency against five girls.
But Dawn ended her life at home in Falkirk two weeks after the guilty verdicts — and didn't live to see her monstrous father locked up for eight years last week.
She added: "It's so sad that after staying strong for so many years, she made this choice when she could finally have had peace."
The pal said Dawn was haunted by her ordeal throughout her troubled life.
She said: "When she confided in me a decade ago that her father had abused her for years, she was in bits. It was a really tough story for her to tell.
"At points over the years she would seem to be doing better, but other times she would really struggle. She would get angry or wouldn't want to leave the house.
"She finally found a boyfriend, but he passed away. She had a lot of emotional struggles to deal with."
The friend said McCormick's return to the UK two years ago, which triggered the trial, sent Dawn into a downward spiral.
She said: "That b*****d came back, calling her a liar. He broke her confidence and made her feel worthless. She hated him.
"I wish I'd had the chance to tell her how proud I am of her for taking the stand."
She added: "No sentence will ever be long enough to compensate for what happened to Dawn."
McCormick, of Twechar, near Kirkintilloch, East Dunbartonshire, finally took the stand in October, a decade after accusations were made against him.
Traumatised victims spoke to cops in 2006 but attempts to trace him failed and bank transactions suggested he had moved to Thailand and Qatar.
But in 2014 information showed the former oil worker was on a flight to the UK. He was nicked at London's Heathrow airport and hauled back to Scotland for trial.
When he took the stand at the High Court in Edinburgh he denied a string of charges, forcing his victims to describe in detail what he did to them.
Jurors heard he abused children as young as three over 31 years from the 1970s, preying on them in a car and at houses across Stirlingshire.
One woman, now 28, said in evidence that she "hated" him as a child and was "completely terrified" when he visited her house.
She said her first memory of being abused was when he restrained her on his lap aged three after he pounced as she watched TV.
She said: "I was squirming and trying to get back down but I could not because he had his arms round my waist."
She added: "In the beginning, when it was happening, I was convinced I was to blame and thought it was something about me that made this happen.
"I felt like I had the word 'victim' tattooed on my forehead."
Other pals of Dawn last night urged abuse victims not to suffer in silence.
One said: "Dawn felt her anxieties would make her a burden. She didn't have many people backing her.
"But I want others to feel they will be believed if they come forward. Don't bottle everything up."
Cops confirmed the non-suspicious death of a woman aged 42 in Falkirk on October 25.
A report was sent to the procurator fiscal.
Earlier this year a tormented student killed herself three years after her church organist step-father was cleared of repeatedly raping her, an inquest heard today.
Juliet Crew, 22, left a chilling note saying she felt let down by the legal system before hanging herself at home.
If you need someone to talk to contact the Samaritans on 116 123
We pay for your stories! Do you have a story for The Sun Online news team? Email us at firstname.lastname@example.com or call 0207 782 4368.


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My resolution for 2015 is for The Survival Doctor to focus even more on your needs. I want to help you prepare easier and quicker—in the exact ways you want to.
To that end, would you tell me how I can best help you by answering this five-question survey? It'll only take about five minutes.
I want to know how you like to learn new things and what you most want to learn about. I've been soaking up medical information for over 40 years, so there's a lot I could share. Where do you want me to focus?
After you take the survey, feel free to expound on your answers in the comments section below. I'll share the survey results next week.


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'Cutting slots in hardened
Steel - made easy'
Steel - made easy'
In the article, advice is given on the use of different machining strategies on tough or hard material. Trochoidal machining is discussed in some depth.
CFB Ballnose Endmill best
for milling Steels & Titanium
for milling Steels & Titanium
The unique, 3 flute unequal pitch tooth design, eliminates chatter and improves metal removal rates. Watch the CFB
cutting tool in action.
CXS Square Endmill best for
Stainless Steels SUS304
Stainless Steels SUS304
This long neck, square type endmill has a special flute design for high speed and harder milling. Watch the CXS demo of wave shape slotting.


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By Muhammad Hassan Miraj
For whom the bell tolls
The 16th day of April 1853 is special in the Indian history. The day was a public holiday. At 3:30 pm, as the 21 guns roared together, the first train carrying Lady Falkland, wife of Governor of Bombay, along with 400 special invitees, steamed off from Bombay to Thane.
Ever since the engine rolled off the tracks, there have been new dimensions to the distances, relations and emotions. Abaseen Express, Khyber Mail and Calcutta Mail were not just the names of the trains but the experiences of hearts and souls. Now that we live in the days of burnt and non functional trains, I still have few pleasant memories associated with train travels. These memoirs are the dialogues I had with myself while sitting by the windows or standing at the door as the train moved on. In the era of Cloud and Wi-fi communications, I hope you will like them.
This place marks the time zone of Pakistan. Arore Hindus initially settled here and converted to Islam by a saint Shah Shams of Multan. A man named Naro decided to set up a city. The Brahmins warned that the city might not see the light of the day unless the foundations were laid by a Syed Muslim. Strangely enough, a few miles away at Qila Sobha Singh, Muslim blood had inaugurated construction. The quest of a Syed willing for the task, took Naro to another saint, Habib Ullah Shah, who accompanied him back to this place. On one of the mound settled the family of Habib Ullah Shah and on the other, the children of Naro. The history of Narowal is all about these two families.
Nothing ancient remains in the city. The buildings have been razed, temples caved and the Guruduwaras demolished. All public offices are now housed in a large compound on Shakar Garh road. This small haven of government officials and their families, away from the masses, is growing fast. Upon failing to find anything historical, I asked a school teacher about the ancient buildings. He brushed the dust off his worn out waist coat, once a trade mark of teachers, and replied, "Where individuals did not survive, how could the buildings?"
I gave up on buildings and picked up on personalities. A triangle of love, truth and expression emerges, which has Jassar, Narowal and Kala Qadir at its three corners. Narowal is the first angle and Hashim Shah is its identity. His mysticism shadows the description of Sassi's plight. When left to the cruel dunes of the desert, which changed shapes with the wind, Sassi lost her way to death but found her course to eternity.
The second corner of this triangle is the abandoned city of Jassar, an important railway station that was once the rail and road crossing for Ravi River. The waters were still shared and the division had yet to step in the physical and mental domains. Jassar Bridge was blown up in the 1965 war. One wonders, that despite the three wars, ideological issues, Ghauris vs. Prithvis, Ajmal Qasabs and Bal Thackereys, whenever an Indian comes across a Pakistani whether on the banks of River Seine, malls of Hamburg or the ruins of Rome, there is an involuntary acquaintance in the eyes. Before the enmity takes over, there is a moment of friendship. When the sun starts to fade, and twilight engulfs everything, a Pakistani and an Indian miss their mothers alike. Some have traded family jewelry, while others have mortgaged skills and academic excellence but the diaspora acquired by both is emotionally painful, yet materially rewarding.
Besides the destroyed bridge, there is another connection between these people of hostile governments: Punjabi. On this side of the triangle, the poetry of Afzal Ahsan Randhawa binds the two. The vicinity of the river and the association with the fields has granted his words the strength that influences decisions.
Main Daryawan daa hani saan,
Tarnay pay Gayay Khaal nee Mayay
I grew up treading the oceans … Alas! I am confined to seasonal streams.
The anonymous town of Kala Qadir sits at the apex of this triangle. Dusty streets, busy cross-roads, fields and straw-shelters with interspersed electric poles best describe the village. It wears the humility personified by Faiz. His life and time were as simple, yet illustrative as this village. From the military service to the conspiracy case and the editorship of progressive papers to heading the arts council, Faiz was every bit a glory.
Another reference to Narowal is Dr Imam ud Din Shahbaz. He is famous for the Punjabi translations of Psalms and has composed many carols. Every Christmas, in the small rural churches, those who sit at the organ revere him for the service.
The road from Jassar is accompanied by the border and the rail line. Next is Kartar Pura, a city set up in the name of God by Baba Nanak. Rarely has anyone taken to lay the city in the name of God, though everyone is eager to fight for His cause. Baba Nanak stayed at this place in his last years and died here. As with all great man, he left the legacy of faith and conflict. His Muslim followers wanted to bury the remains while the Hindus wanted to cremate him. When tones got louder and daggers were to be drawn, somebody indicated the absence of the body beneath the sheets. There lay a bunch of flowers but the body of Guru Nanak Dev had disappeared.
Contemplating the divinity, the faithful divided the sheet and distributed the flowers amongst themselves. Muslims buried their part of the sheet and flowers and Hindus cremated their share. Inside the compound, a marble grave is decorated with sheets, on which are couplets written in Shah-Mukhi script and inside the building, the Samadhi with the same marble has couplets inscribed in Gurumukhi.
On the arch facing the main entrance, a plaque commemorates more of the services of the Maharajah and lesser about the glory of Baba Nanak. It explains, how with the grant of Rs. 1,35,000 the Maharaja saved the Gurudwara from the floods. The Gurudwara was closed down after partition and when both the countries were tired of war, they realised the existence of these symbols of peace. It has been renovated, courtesy Pakistani Government and the Guruduwara Parbandhak Committee.
The standard of Sikh faith flutters on a large pole and can be seen from a distance. A well neighbors this standard and is located next to the grave. Manjit, the soft spoken curator, takes visitors on a tour of the Gurudwara, and one becomes helpless in succumbing to the humility of this faithful.
On the first floor, lies the Granth Saheb and the recital podium. The windows open to the vast expanse of the River Ravi and in the far distance the Gurudwara of Dera Baba Nanak can be seen, across the river … across the border. In the verandah, rations are stacked for the langar and construction activity is all around, a hostel, a medical complex and an education institution, welfare best shadows the religious mind.
Walking in and out, chaadar clad women and head covered men are reminders of a deep seated faith. The outer periphery is marked with the lines of trees and river Ravi flows amidst maze. Before leaving, Manjeet politely demands the Gurudwara cap I had worn. I noticed it was the same I had worn for Eid prayers, a few days ago. The Keertan voices started spreading the message …
Awal Allah noor upaya qudrat kay sab banday,
Aik nor say sab jagg pujia, kon bhalay kon manday
With one light, he created all, and everyone is a man of God
He lit the whole world with one light so who can tell the good from the bad
–Bhagat Kabir
Muhammad Hassan Miraj is a federal government employee.
Courtesy Dawn.com