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Archive for April, 2017
Slices of JHB number 2
Till Dusk Kiss the Source I Donne Hornby vocals by Michael Matthews
AWake: ambivalence 02 by Michael Matthews
Slices of JHB number 1
Beyond Neglected Histories: Neglected Histories (Part 2) : Fe in front of Male – old news or i-con-ic expression
|A re-adjustment to our understanding of the male artist's thinking in the post-past era has led us to empathise with the role the male-in-General has to play in a society no longer to His exclusive use and ab-use. Our time with its neo- and post- and post-post- conceptualisations has provided the ideal for an innocent perspective e.g. to view the Male-artist as having-been-punished, now ready to put on the satirical shoes and jump – straight into an Other observation that fe-male tried to fill the artist's shoes, so to speak, by pushing for space or, at the best, manipulatively 'inspiring' him to walk her into the art history scene some way or another; depending on how the object is viewed.
The Fe-Artist – thank heavens – now creates her own objects but is still more or less seen as being preoccupied with her feminine selves. It might be overseen that this preoccupation has something to do with deconstructing the objectifying glass, the images females have had to see of themselves. It is to create a way of seeing not from the Male-Artist-as-Objectifyer's position but from an outlook of the Other as another.
Being where we are now, the denied-equal-opportunities-idea has a clichéd appearance in postmodernist twists where various manipulative acts have a parallel privilege to be brought to the fore. The idea is not to un-qualify the Male-artist as gender exploiter into a paranoid angle, but to free him from that his-tory, from the guilt trip that followed him to act as a conveyer of an image that was not his own. The Fe-artist has taken up the brush herself, so that the male artist is free from the social responsibility to represent her, and if he does, it may be as a hu-without-man being.
To view the Fe-male 'artist' as born through the male-as-conveyer, is like saying: women bear children; men bear women; who bears men? God through wo-man as embellished, who cannot make art seriously because they make babies – male artists who are the cultural bearers and law makers of society so they can put themselves erect on pedestals on gallery walls in theoretical perspectives.
But of course the above is supposed to be old news by now. We all know where fe comes from. We know that the term Neglected Histories used to designate supplements of being denied parallel stands, of pre-fixing the male ego to the extent of be-coming post-male. We know Male-artists hanged themselves in the female image because they feared the female hanging as well as the extensions of the female image into commercial art forms and fashion photography, not wanting to realise that these are supplementing the Fine Arts. The representations of the fe-male image has shifted its concepts. It has opened the way into a more eclectic and rounded way of looking at the world we are in and moving into.
And it has the potential to raise our anxiety levels if we get too specialised into specifics. If hanging the feminine object took place under pressure in the past, it now has the potential to become a ritual act of self-discovery and forgiveness, as Fe's nowadays play survival alongside their male contestants – and kiss the Source from a position of unity.


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Avalanche, Ooty
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#roadTrip #backpacking #nature
Welcome to Avalanche, Ooty!
Avalanche, Ooty located at an altitude of 1983m is a nice place to visit in Tamil Nadu. It's popular for its road trip, nature and mountains. It's extremely offbeat. You won't find many tourists around.
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subset: commoncrawl


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Jake Locker: The Evaluation Continues
January 30, 2011
I haven't heard any national analyst describe Jake Locker's NFL prospects as well as the NFL Network's Mike Mayock.
Breaking sports news video. MLB, NFL, NBA, NHL highlights and more.
And there you have it.
When Locker heads to the NFL Combine on February 23, we're going to see him do all of the physical testing (although I QBs rarely, if ever, take part in the bench press) and he's going to look wonderful. All those numbers will show is that he's an athlete–a very good athlete.
As an aside, here are my predictions for his numbers:
- 40-yard dash: 4.52
- vertical jump: 39.5
- 3-cone drill: 6.52
- broad jump: 10'05
- bench press (if he does it): 25
But as we've seen during his UW career, and what scouts saw at the Senior Bowl, we'll see this week (in the 2011 All-Star Football Challenge airing on ESPN2 on February 4 at 4:00 PM Pacific–and 10 other airings as well if you miss it. Just set your DVR, it'll find it. ) and we'll see during the QB drills at the NFL Combine, Locker is erratic. He's got a wonderful toolset, but he's just not an accurate QB right now and no one knows if he'll ever be one. But the good news is, we'll see. But where will we see it happen?
The best situation for him would include some, if not all, of these elements:
- established, very-good-to-great veteran QB in his 30s
- winning team
- great QB coach
- non-West Coast Offense (the scheme is too inflexible and requires far too much precision for a guy like Locker)
- run-oriented offense
- a "tough" team with a blue-collar fanbase who will appreciate his physical gifts and grit
Before we get to the "good" situations, let's take a look at the teams that would be bad fits for Locker, for various reasons.
Because of Matt Ryan (although if they had a veteran instead of him, that would be a very nice spot for Locker, alas…)
Because of Joe Flacco, although it appears that Joe and the Ravens are definitely not on the same page right now.
Regardless, even if Flacco was out of the picture, Locker needs someone else to take the snaps in 2011, he's just not ready to play right now.
Because of Colt McCoy and because they are going to run Mike Holmgren's offense or at least something very similar and that's kryptonite for Locker. Plus, they are picking No. 6 and this team has more needs than QB at the moment, especially a project.
Because they'll probably stick with Tim Tebow and they are not taking Locker No. 2. But interestingly, Denver would be a good landing spot if Kyle Orton stuck around and Tebow was sent elsewhere, but I'm pretty sure that isn't happening. Speaking of Tebow, every time I hear (or rather used to hear) Bill Simmons talk about how intangibles (as opposed to arm strength) are the only things that matter for an NFL QB it would drive me crazy. Then I heard this podcast with Trent Dilfer http://es.pn/eeWu4W and I calmed down. Dilfer couldn't have explained things any better than this. Essentially he agrees that intangibles are important if all things are equal, but the thing is, they aren't. The good guy, good leader, rah-rah stuff works well if a QB has the baseline attributes of a good QB. If he has an adequate arm, if he has a good release, if he's smart enough to read defenses etc etc etc. The rah-rah stuff gets you only so far if you fail to perform. I loved his take on that. Look, I really enjoy Simmons and listen to his podcasts and read his columns (except the reality TV and wrestling things), but I'm glad Dilfer set him straight here.
Because of Matthew Stafford… although, can they really trust him? I really like the guy and think he is a very nice player with a rocket arm and seemingly the leadership abilities, but he's constantly hurt and if he can't stay on the field, can Detroit continue to ride with him? They've got a ton of time and (mostly) money invested in him, I can't see them going a different direction. Too bad because they are a team that is clearly on the rise.
Incidentally, many of the things that scouts were saying about Stafford when he came out of Georgia are the same things they're saying about Locker… specifically, the accuracy issue. Stafford only played three years at Georgia (left as a true junior) and only completed sixty percent of his passes his junior year (61.4%). He was a career 57% in college and is a 54% guy in the NFL (albeit in only 13 total games in two seasons). They are also about the same size (Locker is 6'2+ and 228 and Stafford is 6'2 230… but they couldn't be built any more differently. Locker looks like a linebacker and Stafford looks like Phil Mickelson). Interestingly, they are the same age (Stafford is four months older) and same high school class (as is Tim Tebow).
Anyway, if not for the presence of Stafford, Locker could be headed to Detroit, but he's there and it's not going to happen.
Green Bay
Because of Aaron Rodgers, who is otherworldly, and is only 27 and because Matt Flynn is only 25 and they really like him there. Not happening.
New York Jets
Because of Mark Sanchez, who is only 24. Say what you will about Sanchez, and many people have said many things, the guy does win games. He's erratic and inconsistent, but he also can make it happen. The Jets are all in on Sanchez, but the style of offense that this team runs is exactly the kind of offense where Locker could succeed.
St. Louis
Because of Sam Bradford, who is only 23. He's in line to be possibly one of the best QBs in the game. I'd say the Rams are set at QB for now.
Tampa Bay
Because of Josh Freeman, who just turned 23. Interestingly, Freeman is the QB who Locker should look to and try to emulate.
So that's nine teams who will not take Locker, at least not in the first or second rounds, which is where Locker is going to land (my money is on the mid-to-late first round by the way).
The following six teams need QBs, but are missing good, veteran QBs that Locker could learn from, meaning they are bad fits. Although San Francisco has a different situation because of Jim Harbaugh, but I doubt they'll go after Locker (while one of these teams may draft Locker, my point is they wouldn't be good for him… at all).
- Arizona
- Carolina (the Clausen issue, plus, he is NOT going No. 1)
- Minnesota (although they have a nice running game and a good defense)
- Oakland (I wouldn't wish this team on anyone, no matter what their record is, he can't succeed there)
- San Francisco (could be good, as noted above, but the Smiths are fragile now and I'm not sure how much they can help)
- Tennessee (a team I've liked for awhile, but no longer, they are a mess at the moment)
(horrible QB situation, he'll flounder there)
So, according to my count, 15 teams are out of the running for Locker and 17 remain.
The following 10 teams have decent situations for Locker, but are ultimately not ideal for him because the incumbent QBs, while veteran, are not likely to be out of the league in two-to-three years because they're too young and/or too good.
Tony Romo will be 31 in April and despite his shoulder injury last year has been relatively healthy. Also, it appears that backup Stephen McGee is a keeper. Locker would be a silly pick for Dallas anyway.
Matt Schaub is an elite-level talent. He hasn't taken this team to the postseason yet, but has piled up yards. Plus, he'll only be 30 just before the season. I'm sure Locker could learn from Shaub, but he's not going to shove him aside anytime soon.
Now this is interesting, but not because of the offense. It would be a great place for Locker to learn and Peyton Manning will be 35 in March, which is about the right age for Locker to sit behind. However, Manning is going to play forever, probably five more years at a minimum. While he went through a terrible stretch of games this year, he was missing a ton of his receivers. He can be blamed for some, but not all of his interceptions this year. Here's the thing though, Manning never misses games. Ever.
Kansas City
Because of KC's affinity for running the ball, this is a nice fit for Locker, but Matt Cassel was just given a truckload of cash and is far too young (will be 29 next season).
New England
Tom Brady will be 34 at the start of the season but, and this is just a guess, I'm thinking that New England would like Brady to stick around. Also, New England hasn't drafted a QB in the first round since 1993 when it nabbed Drew Bledsoe at No. 1. Since then, the highest round they've drafted a QB is the third (Kevin O'Connell in 2008)… another thing, they really only had two QBs on their roster this year (Brady and Brian Hoyer… Julian Edelman plays WR for them). Locker's not going here even though it would probably be good for him.
New York Giants
This is not a terrible spot either. New York loves to run the ball and has a tough defense and team overall. The problem is Eli Manning just turned 30 and while he's not an elite QB, he's just a notch below. Regardless, I don't see it happening.
If Ben Roethlisberger was 36, this would be a perfect place for Locker to land, but, alas, he's 28 (29 in March) It's a perfect coaching staff and fanbase for him. But he'll never play and he'd be, at best, the third QB here. Nearly perfect, but not the one.
I don't think that they're getting rid of Kevin Kolb and obviously Michael Vick is ridiculous, but the offensive coaches that they have in Philly have obviously shown their worth over the years. I've often thought that Locker's top-end potential is Donovan McNabb and they did wonders with him there. Also, they turned Vick into a legit passer, instead of a phenomenal athlete with a cannon, but erratic, arm. They would help Locker's game immensely, but they are not picking him up.
San Diego
The Chargers have a very nice team and Norv Turner is a great QB tutor, but Phil Rivers is just too young (29) and too durable. However, San Diego, with its pretty deep roster could possibly be a team that could afford this kind of "luxury" pick and Locker at No. 18 sounds about right.
But because Pete Carroll does not do sentimentality, I'm skeptical that Seattle would go after Locker. Yes, Locker is a local guy. Yes, he's entrenched in the Seattle landscape because of his five years at UW, but might be a bad fit for this team. While Locker, or any young QB for that matter, could do no better than Matt Hasselbeck as a mentor because of his demeanor and his age, Locker's skillset does not align with what Carroll wants to do, especially since he just hired a Holmgren West Coast guy (Darrell Bevell) as his offensive coordinator. I could almost see Locker falling to No. 25 and Seattle trading the pick and picking up the third-rounder that they lost in the Charlie Whitecaps deal.
The next three teams are just bad fits.
No matter how you feel about Jay Cutler (I disliked him even before the whole knee thing), the guy isn't going anywhere. He'll be 28 next year and he actually had a very good year in 2010. Also, I don't see Locker doing well in a Mike Martz system.
Not a good fit for Locker because this team has no idea what to do at its QB position. Chad Henne, a guy they thought was their QB of the future, has proven to be a turnover machine. Chad Pennington and Tyler Thigpen are likely returning (they'll both be free agents). There isn't room for Locker here.
New Orleans
Clearly Locker could learn a ton from Drew Brees and Sean Payton, but I don't think that the Saints would want a project like Locker, it seems that they'd want a QB who was crazy accurate and extremely cerebral. Neither of which are Locker's calling cards. I see a guy like Alabama's Greg McElroy going here if they take a QB at all.
So, that leaves us with only four viable teams for Locker.
If Chan Gailey's coaching staff coached the North side at the Senior Bowl, then I'd have a better read on this. Here's the other issue, they have Ryan Fitzpatrick, who is far from a "name" QB, but who had a pretty decent year in 2010. In 13 games, he threw for 3,000 yards (exactly, by the way) 23 TDs against 15 INTs and had a QB rating of 81.8. Not bad. He didn't really drive the ball down the field (ranked 23rd in yards per attempt), but he was steady. Now, is "steady" what Buffalo needs? Not sure. They're a team with many holes and it seems like Fitzpatrick, while nice, is not a franchise guy. Put it this way, if Buffalo could upgrade at his position, they would. He's expendable, certainly more so than the other QBs above. But will Buffalo take Locker at No. 3? That seems unlikely. Perhaps they'll move down and take him later.
Now here are the guys who did coach the North team, so they saw what Locker could do up close and personal every day for Senior Bowl practices. They also have a situation with Carson Palmer who has publicly stated that he wants out of Cincy. I doubt that Cincy will trade Palmer, no matter what he says, they are obstinate that way. While Palmer has had his troubles the past two years, he's still a smart QB and certainly Locker could learn from the guy. Now, will Cincy take him at No. 4? It's possible. Consider this, Cincy has a weird setup in their "front office." They don't have a scouting department and getting a chance to coach an All-Star team is an expense saver. I wouldn't be surprised if they "reached" for Locker here if they liked what they saw this past week at the Senior Bowl.
They pick No. 16. They have a very physical offense that relies heavily (as well they should) on Maurice Jones-Drew. They have a QB who is about to turn 33 and who is decent, but hasn't been anywhere near as good as he was in 2007. His best days are clearly behind him. Trent Edwards is the current backup and if all else fails, Locker could start the season as the No. 3 QB. If I was a betting man, I'd say that this is where he lands. They're getting a stronger armed, less accurate Tim Tebow a year later.
Now this is funny. About two years ago, I wrote that the absolute floor for Locker is Rex Grossman and that his ceiling is a slightly better Donovan McNabb. It would be poetic (for me, anyway) if Locker went here, although I'm fairly certain that McNabb won't be here in 2011 (I mean, how could he be?). Mike Shannahan appears to be a power-hungry maniac, but the guy does know QBs. I have no doubt that he'd be able to help Locker become a good one. But at No. 10? It's possible.
With all that being said, we have no idea if the NFL will be in action next season, but we do know that there will be a draft in April.
Here are my own odds for Locker's destination:
- Jacksonville: 4-1
- Washington: 5-1
- Cincinnati: 8-1
- Buffalo: 10-1
- Field: 20-1


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Bhutanese Incense
In the center of the Himalayas, between India and Tibet, lies the kingdom of Bhutan - a place whose name means "land of the thunder dragon".
Centuries of seclusion from the outside world has left the Buddhist tradition in this land largely untouched and preserved its vitality to present day. The incense traditions in Bhutan have similarly been retained and incense is still produced according to the methods of ancient Buddhist writings. These methods regulate the choice of ingredients and the composition of the recipes as well as the hand-crafted methods by which the incense sticks are produced.
Attention to star constellations, periods of fasting and ceremonies of spiritual cleansing are a few of the elements observed before the monks begin the production of the incense sticks. All of the ingredients used are of natural origin: flowers, tree bark and resinous wood, roots, leaves, fruit and seeds.
The incense is then smoked in the numerous monasteries of Bhutan to help increase inner clarity, concentration and focus for the meditations.
We are happy to present to you a small selection of these rare and sacred incense blends.


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Yes,,-the–Bay–Area–economy is booming. But, that's just the start to this story. DES Architects + Engineers' (DES A+E) current success is much more than that.
Recent industry rankings showcase DES A+E's growing strength in its key markets. The firm placed higher than ever on ENR California's annual Top Design Firms list, placing 3rd for interior workplaces and 5th for commercial buildings. Topping that, the firm ranked as the #1 architecture firm in the Silicon Valley for the first time.*
DES A+E's integrated design expertise and seven in-house services provide a better experience and better results.
Focused on four core markets — commercial, science and tech, healthcare, and education — DES takes lessons learned from each market and leverages those insights to improve design. The synergies between these markets provides a distinctive advantage to clients. Take education spaces. The design teams are utilizing lessons learned from tech workplaces to improve learning environments, such as creating flexible spaces, maximizing daylighting, and integrating indoor-outdoor connectivity.
"We have deep roots in each of the four markets." says Steve Mincey, CEO of DES A+E. "As such, we understand the demand and need to create unique spaces that appeals to specific users. This ability to tailor solutions to each client enables us to best deliver on their vision."
Whether a space for learning, healing or working, DES is leading the way by pushing the boundaries of design and offering novel solutions. Currently, the firm is creating forward-thinking projects that include:
- Moffett Gateway, a 628,000-sf, LEED Platinum tech campus with a 30,000-sf roof garden
- BioMarin, 24,000-sf adaptable workplace for a pioneering life science company
- Crossover Health Center, a 8,000-sf, next-gen corporate wellness center
- Design Tech High, an innovative charter school being built on Oracle's HQ campus
DES' culture thrives on teamwork, initiative, innovation, and flexibility. These are many of the same qualities that makes the Silicon Valley so special.
With wind at its back, DES A+E is opening a new office in San Francisco's Financial District. The new, 3,800-sf location will offer multiple advantages, most importantly a convenient place to collaborate with San Francisco and North Bay clients. With DES A+E being adept at what many simply call the Silicon Valley style, the time has come for the firm to lead a new generation of startups in San Francisco.
The firm's breadth of services and design expertise does indeed set it apart but it's paring those characteristics with a client-focused approach and a small-firm feel that puts the company on the top of the charts.
About DES Architects + Engineers
For over 40 years, DES Architects + Engineers has designed working, learning, and healing environments for our clients. As a full-service design firm headquartered in Redwood City, California, DES provides creative and sustainable solutions that serve the needs of municipal, healthcare, education, development, and science and technology clients.
*Sources: Silicon Valley Business Journal and ENR California


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Integrative Health
By working together at our Miami based practice over the past 4 years, Lisa and I have been successful in providing our patients with an updated integrative approach to
obtain and maintain optimal health, vitality and prevention of chronic disease. Optimizing nutrition, replacing deficient nutrients and addressing hormonal imbalances using
unique functional diagnostic testing can give one the power of feeling and looking ones best.
"Lisa's expertise in integrative medical nutrition therapy, psychotherapy, culinary and fitness has helped our most challenging weight loss, metabolic, hormonal, arthritic and immune comprimised patients learn the day to day food, fitness, cooking and mindful behavior changes to help them meet and often exceed their anticpated goals"


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24-10-2019, 00:48 #11st Post
- Join Date
- Oct 2019
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- Los Angeles
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New to Forums
Joining forum because I'm planning on getting an S15 in 2024 when its legal to be imported in the US.
Previously owned an FD. Currently DD a Prius.
Last edited by b0bab0i; 24-10-2019 at 00:52.
25-10-2019, 00:03 #2
ive heard people from US are buying these in advance and storing them until legal as the price will jump in the future.
Are you planning to do the same?
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- Apply to clean skin in upward strokes to face and neck, morning and evening.
- Gently massage until absorbed.
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In stock
This 79% organically-derived soothing goat milk soufflé moisturizer utilizes the sensitive skin-loving miracle of goat's milk, long renowned for its anti-inflammatory and brightening properties.
Instantly nourishes skin with a blend of vitamins and oils, including organic jojoba seed oil and organic coconut oil. Power-packed with essential fatty acids, goat milk has a ph similar to our skin, allowing this decadent yet lightweight cream to absorb deeply and quickly, leaving skin hydrated, soft and radiant. Paraben-free and gluten-free.


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An Austin teacher shared with her parents�this picture:
Her class was overloaded in fidget spinners, and apparently, they were distracting.
RELATED:�Teachers are squirming over fidget spinners
The spinners, which sell for $2 to $20+, are meant to help you maintain focus in the classroom or at work. The theory goes that if you have something like attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, playing with the spinner can help you focus. Some kids really are tactile learners and they need something to help ground them and bring their minds into attention. For some kids, these sensory objects help them pay attention or ease their anxiety.
I have one of those kids. He has Silly Putty in his backpack that he�s supposed to use when he�s having anxiety or pent-up energy that needs to go somewhere. Even at 16, he still needs that sometimes, and when he doesn�t have it, up comes the anxiety that makes him want to flee.
Recently, when he was somewhere where it was difficult to pay attention, his anxiety was rising and his flight-instinct was kicking in. He soothed it by playing with a gift bag of foam packing peanuts I happened to find where we were. He just needed something tactile to focus that energy. Once he had it, he was able to re-enter the room and participate again.
So, imagine what would happen, if a school outlawed all fidget spinners or all soothing toys of any kind? What would those kids who do better academically and socially when they are touching or playing with something do?
For those kids who don�t need a coping tool, a fidget spinner could be very distracting, and when they misuse�it,�they ruin it for kids who do need it.
If you have a kid who doesn�t need a fidget spinner, leave it at home, with all the other toys. If your kid does need one, make sure it�s in your child�s individualized education plan�and that they know not to share it with their classmates. You also might want to find a different tool until this fidget spinner craze calms down.]]


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Stop and smell the ragu
Sometimes, listening to the pundits and ponderers, I get the feeling that cooking is my duty. It's good for the environment; it's good for my health; it's good for society; it's good for my family; it's good for the small farmers and food producers who depend on my business.
But though all of those things are doubtless true, the one reason for cooking I rarely hear mentioned is that it's just plain fun.
Granted, that's not always true. Tuesday at 8 p.m. after I've gotten off the Blue Line hungry and tired from a long day at work, stove-time does not seem remotely recreational, even for me.
But other times it certainly does. Of course there's the pleasure that comes from feeding family and friends. But there's also the joy that comes with immersing yourself in a project. My brother-in-law works on cars for fun and my brother builds furniture. Me? I cook.
And there are few dishes that are more pleasurable to make than ragù. Make no mistake: As wonderful as ragù is to eat, it's just as much fun to fix.
This is fall food at its best: slow cooking that develops deep, harmonic flavors. It's the perfect project for a lazy weekend day when you don't have much else planned. Cook a little. Go out to the garden and pull a weed. Come back in and give things a stir. Head for the couch and catch up on the game and your nap. This can go on all day.
Ragù is sometimes misunderstood. Most simply, it is a meat-based pasta sauce. But the definition goes deeper than that. Many sauces have meat in them, but ragùs are based on meat. The juices of the meat that has cooked in them are fundamental to the sauce. That's the reason old-time East Coast Italians refer to ragùs as "gravy."
They're not necessarily tomato-based sauces, either. In fact, the most classical version of the best-known ragù, the one from Bologna, can be made with either no tomato or very little. Very delicate, it is, with milk and veal.
Building a dish
"Delicate" is not exactly a word I would choose to describe my favorite ragù -- based very loosely on a recipe by Jeanne Carola-Francesconi in her classic "La Cucina Napoletana." This is a powerful, deeply flavored sauce built on long, slow cooking. Oh, and four types of pork.
Dishes like this are constructed more than they are cooked. No slap-dash sizzle-and-deglaze here. Each step must be given the time it deserves. But at the end it all comes together with an almost orchestral power.
Start by sautéing the soffrito -- a chopped paste of pancetta, prosciutto, onions, parsley and garlic. Add a big chunk of pork. Loin is traditional but I think the loins we get in this country are just too lean for braising -- you're better off with a hunk of pork shoulder or butt. If it comes with the bone, remove it and tie the roast into a uniform shape. I've also made this with meaty pork country-style ribs and though they cook a bit more quickly, they're really good.
Brown the meat slowly. It'll take an hour to an hour and a half. Add about a half-bottle of red wine and continue to cook, turning the meat whenever you have the energy. The meat will slowly braise and the wine will reduce to a thin, intensely flavored syrup. Count on another hour to an hour and a half.
Now it's time for the tomato paste. This is a key step and not to be ignored because of silly prejudice. Too often, tomato paste is regarded as a bad cook's crutch, but when it is handled correctly, it adds real depth to a ragù. The trick is to add it slowly, stirring it into the sauce and letting it caramelize and brown thoroughly. The color should be brick, not bright red.
A tender roast
Add more tomatoes and keep stewing until a carving fork slides easily into the meat. You want the roast to be almost shreddable. This can take a couple of hours, and remember that the meat won't become tender all over at the same time -- check in several places to make sure it's thoroughly done.
When the roast is cooked, remove it from the sauce and set it aside. In Italy, a ragù made this way is usually served in separate courses -- pasta with sauce first, then the meat as a main course, usually served simply with some kind of complementary vegetable dish (I've always loved the term contorni -- loosely translated, a vegetable dish that fits the flavor contours of the main course). You want something a little bitter to offset the richness of the meat, maybe braised broccoli rabe, or mustard or dandelion greens?
But wait, the sauce isn't done cooking. There's still one more pork to go. Crumble some good fennel-flavored Italian sausages into the sauce. Slit and remove the skins and squeeze small chunks between your thumb and forefingers to flatten them slightly. After this has cooked slowly for about an hour, the dish should be deep, dark and ready to serve.
Or not. At this point you can also refrigerate it and reheat it gently when you want. Maybe after the game. Or after your nap. Whichever comes first. Relax, it's fall and this is supposed to be fun.
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I've been able to go cross country skiing in my own back yard every day this February. Why does this matter? It's a sign that we've been getting a lot of snow and cold up to this point. However, it has warmed up the last few days, and the snow is getting thin.
In other news, the elk herd has been making it's own tracks up and down the hillside here.


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It has begun! This year, I waited to see what writing needed to come out – fiction or memoir. And once again it is (drumroll please) creative non-fiction. I have some fiction in here somewhere, but memoir is in the way. So many stories, so few written down…. from this year and last anyway. Memoir now. Fiction later. And maybe they'll collide, in the end.
And so, even though am still disabled and am now in the sad, post-divorce situation where I must work part-time in order to make ends meet, I've managed to keep my word count relatively on track. Even more remarkable since I've had the flu this week.
In fact, I finally called the MN state flu phone line yesterday after being pretty sick for two days – fever, icky cough, headaches, huge fatigue and body pain to write home about. If you know me, you know that if I'm complaining aboaut extra fatigue and pain, that's pretty remarkable. The flu hotline nurse didn't like that my breathing wasn't as easy as it should be, or that I heard crackling at the beginning and ends of each breath. In fact, she told me I must go to the ER RIGHT THEN to be checked out.
This was a huge mistake. I knew it at the time, but chose to believe the nurse's concern. But I may have finally learned my lesson: In the US, do NOT go the ER unless you have stopped breathing or can't stop bleeding. Or you are in uncontrollable pain. If you go with anything less than a life-threatening situation, they will make you wait in agony for five hours, then tell you, "Guess what? You are sick. Go home. Take cough syrup. Use a humidifier. Don't breathe on anyone until you are all better."
This was the result after six hours of being ignored in a puke-scented waiting room, not getting the blanket, water, or pain medication I needed so badly that I was weeping say, 70 percent of the time. I would have been much bettter of at home. I'm pretty sure my escapade to get health treatment will extend my illness by several days.
Especially disappointing was that my "primary provider" at this ER was a nurse practitioner. I usually love working with NPs, often finding them to be far more knowledgeable, open minded, and helpful than your average MD off the street. Not this time. She particularly did not like that I am disabled by Chronic neuro-Lyme.
Within the first minute of our relationship, I realized she was bought into the Infectious Disease Society's criminally negligent guidelines for treating chronic Lyme, and did not want to hear anything that conflicted with them. This had the, some would say, miraculous effect of impairing her hearing, memory, or focus when around me. She was clearly annoyed that I had so much information about my health and treatment options. I do not expect this in a nurse practitioner, especially at Abbott NW Hospital where I have had good experiences before. (Although this was my first ER visit there. And probably my last.)
Well. What does not kill you makes good writing material. And material, dear friends, I have in abundance.
I'll keep you posted as the month goes on.
Filed under: Chronic Illness, Emergency Room, lyme, Writing | Tagged: Nanowrimo, Nanowrimo 2009 |


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disgraced comedian genius wallowing
I kind of love him. He was booted out of his Hollywood success for losing his shit over using chemicals on kids to facilitate transitioning them into approximating the opposite sex. Seriously. He was all the way drummed out of the corps for trying to protect our children from this insanity.
He's in the middle of trying to get a doctoral degree in Out There, reorient himself in the great scheme of things, find some solidarity in the perpetual quicksand pursuit of authenticity. He talks a LOT. I think it pays, that people have live streams where there is a special chat for people who pay. He has a family to support.
And he's finally seen through Celine Dion.
pipe up any time....
love, nines ||| weird turned pro


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Food Safety Courses in Essex and Suffolk, Norfolk
MJ Training of Lowestoft offers first class food safety training courses for clients throughout Norfolk, Suffolk and Essex. Contact us to discuss your needs.
We have the following courses available:
(Either accredited or non-accredited certificate awarded)
Level 2 Award
Food Safety in Catering
Food Safety in Retail
Food Safety in Manufacturing
Food Safety Awareness
Level 3 Award in Food Safety – available upon request.
Legal requirement
Food Safety Courses
Not only do we provide food safety courses for those working directly in the preparation of food, we can also award our own Non-Accredited certificate for those who do not require the accredited certificate and tailor the course to the client's specific requirements, saving on cost, but not compromising the course content in anyway.
We can deliver your food safety training course on site. We are based in Lowestoft and deliver training across East Anglia, including Suffolk, London, Norfolk and Essex. We are an approved Centre for Qualsafe Awards, an Awarding Organisation recognised by Ofqual to offer regulated qualifications.
Strong understanding of food safety practices
MJ Training, Lowestoft, offers food safety training to clients at their venue anywhere in Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex and London. Call us to book your course.
'Very informative course, will help in my role as kitchen assistant and housekeeper.
Thank you.


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MORRIS COUNTY — Hundreds of students ran around Drew and Fairleigh Dickinson universities with foam dart guns and balled-up socks last week. But there was no need to panic.
The students were just fighting the zombie apocalypse.
The two Morris County private universities held separate multiday, live-action Humans vs. Zombies games on their campuses. Hundreds of students engaged in an epic 24-hour-a-day battle to stop flesh-eating "zombies" from picking off the last humans on campus.
"It's like a virtual video game," said Rita Della Valle, a Drew University junior who helped organize the game at her school. "It definitely changes the feeling on campus for the week."
Dozens of colleges have hosted the elaborate version of tag since it was invented by a group of students at Goucher College in Maryland in 2005. At Drew and Fairleigh Dickinson's Madison campuses, the zombie apocalypse games are sponsored by anti-alcohol student groups as a substance-free, though morbid, way to have fun.
Nearly 170 Drew students played a weeklong Humans vs. Zombies game that ended Friday night. Fairleigh Dickinson is hosting a two-week version of the game with 150 players that ends this Friday, student organizers said.
The rules are simple: At the beginning of the game, everyone who signs up is a human, except for one student randomly chosen to be the "original zombie." The zombie tags human players with his or her hands to turn them into zombies.
Then, the zombies — who wear bandanas on their heads to identify themselves — must tag and "eat" a human every 48 hours or they starve and are out of the game. The humans defend themselves with foam dart guns and balled-up socks, which "stun" zombies for 15 minutes, according to the rules.
Students log on to a website to keep track of who is human and who is a zombie, organizers said. They also use Facebook to organize elaborate nighttime "missions" to attack zombies or humans. The playing field is the entire campus, though academic buildings and dorm rooms are considered safe zones.
The game is free to play. The winner can be the zombie with the most kills or the group of humans still "alive" at the end of the week, students said. At Fairleigh Dickinson, students can win movie and theme park tickets. At Drew, there are no real prizes.
"They do win bragging rights," said Della Valle, 20, president of Drew's New Social Engine student club and one of the moderators of her campus's game.
Hayley McNeill, 19, said she was ambushed by a zombie while walking to her calculus class Monday. The disappointed sophomore tied the orange "zombie" bandana on her head.
"I thought I would last longer," said McNeill, of California. "Right off the bat, I was tagged."
At Fairleigh Dickinson some players modified their dart guns to shoot longer distances, students said. Others created bows and arrows with foam darts and nunchakus made of socks to attack zombies.
"You see people getting really, really creative," said Kristen Smith, 21, vice president of Fairleigh Dickinson's New Social Engine club.
Though Humans vs. Zombies was designed to be harmless college fun, the pretend violence has been controversial on some campuses. In 2007, a report of a student carrying a gun triggered a campuswide lock down at Alfred University in upstate New York. School officials later learned the gun shot Nerf darts and the student was playing the zombie game.
The University of Nebraska at Lincoln, the University of Colorado and Bowling Green State University in Ohio are among campuses that have banned foam dart guns because of Humans vs. Zombies. Earlier this year, the University of Iowa canceled its game after a student was hit by a car while playing.
Both Fairleigh Dickinson and Drew officials said they are aware of the mock violence in the game. But they supported it because the events were organized by campus chapters of New Social Engine, student groups funded by Morris County Prevention is Key, a nonprofit organization that promotes alternatives to drinking.
"We're obviously sensitive to the guns issue, but our larger concern is combating violence," said David Muha, a Drew University spokesman. "Since drugs or alcohol are usually behind most incidents, we view this competition as a creative way of engaging students in an activity that underscores that you can have fun with a clear mind and a sober body."


text: interactive sound environment installation interactive motion playful soundtoy tracking The Orbiter takes possession of all senses. It is a place for visitors to lay down and relax, watching the firmament above them. With a small gesture, just pointing upwards, the visitor can insert new stars into orbit with unique visual and musical characteristics. Each version of the Orbiter features various scenes with different graphics, sounds and behaviour. Some create an illusionary nightsky firmament, playing more melodic or ambient sounds. Others experiment with the possibilities of graphical abstraction and rough synths, allowing you to even play drum'n bass-like sounds.


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Chicago Attic Moisture Experts!
Attics can be a shocker at times with all the moisture condensation, mold buildup and rodent infestation. AdvantaClean of Southwest Chicagoland is a name you can invoke in such emergency situations. Recommended by thousands of satisfied customers and given rave reviews by media, we are the undisputed pacesetter in attic mold remediation.
Service Areas of AdvantaClean of Southwest Chicagoland
Apart from Chicago, we offer our attic mold removal and attic ventilation services in the following cities, and suburbs:
- Flossmoor
- Palos Hills
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- Joliet
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Commercial & residential mold cleaning services
We provide mold and mildew inspection and remediation services to every commercial or residential client we receive a complaint from. Our mainstay has been our competent employees who are capable of providing outstanding light environmental services to our customers. They are trained and oriented to do exactly what's best for you.
First of all, we isolate the contaminated area in an attic and then we set out to decontaminate it. Thereafter, we engage in rapid mold removal and stain removal. It is our duty to ensure that homeowners and facility managers witness least damage to their property's structure while we offer extensive mold remediation services to them.
Key attributes or differentiators of AdvantaClean of Southwest Chicagoland
- Knowledgeable
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Minimal interruption in daily routine
Our team of technicians specializes in providing speedy response to mold problems in attics at homes and business centers. This helps ensure that the occupants of these places return to their normal, daily routine in the shortest possible time. The state-of-the-art equipment and proprietary processes we utilize during attic mold remediation are recommended by environmental and health agencies such as NADCA, EPA, IICRC and BNI. This makes our mold cleaning job more efficient and hence, we take minimum of your valuable time.
The fact that we take pride in resolving the mold issues of our customers and we care about what we do gives our prospective clients a genuine reason for choosing us.


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Despite the great news that the Lumia 920 seems to be received well all over the world, Nokia is still not out of the woods yet. The Finnish company has already sold its New York offices in White Plains, New York and now the iconic "Nokia House" will join the list of sold properties. The Espoo property was sold for $222 million to Exilion, who is currently leasing the property to Nokia for an undisclosed amount.
Despite these apparent setbacks, Nokia CFO Timo Ihamuotila doesn't seem to be too concerned. He stated, "As we have said before, owning real estate is not part of Nokia's core business and when good opportunities arise we are willing to exit these types of non-core assets. We are naturally continuing to operate in our head office building on a long-term basis."
What do you think? Is Nokia streamlining their business or off-loading assets for the long-haul?
[via BGR]


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If you are looking for a modified ketogenic diet meal plan it means you have probably read my article about modified ketogenic dieting. Now you are interested in how to implement all of that information in your life. Right? Which kinds of food you can choose to diversify your meals? What is more important, how to add more protein and carbs without gaining extra weight. Am I right? In this article I will give you some practical recommendations in a modified ketogenic diet and a modified ketogenic diet meal plan so you can try it.
I will remind you of the main rules of a modified ketogenic diet. You can add more protein and more good carbs to your meals. Fats are still the basis of the diet. Drinking water should be no less than 2 liters per day. Now, we can move on to the modified ketogenic diet meal plan.
Let's traditionally start from Monday. I hope you are reading this article not before making breakfast, as you will be simply running out of time. Anyway, I understand how important time is before breakfast, mostly because there is always lack of it. That's why we need simple, easy to cook meals. Especially for this day of the week. I offer you to make an omelet with bacon and a small glass of fresh juice from orange and apple. Vitamin C and some iron elements would be great to start the day.
Lunch should be also very simple and nutrient-dense to keep you full till dinner. Do you like the fresh taste of shrimps? Make a salad from shrimps and creamy-white cauliflower. Add some olives, green or black it is up to you and some cedar nuts. Do not forget about a high-cream dressing. Then close your eyes and imagine yourself eating that delicious salad at a wooden table in front the ocean.
Hope you enjoyed that special modified ketogenic lunch by the ocean. Now it is time for dinner. There is nowhere to hurry and you can spend more time at the kitchen with your kids or lover. I'd offer you to cook salmon in the oven and serve with a small bowl of brown rice. I am sure you have missed it from your long, traditional ketogenic days.
Tuesday breakfast is the same – fast and simple. Oh, wait, it is not same. It is sweet and more delicious. Make cream cheese pancakes. It is made of cream cheese (about 50 grams), 2 eggs, 1 tsp of brown sugar and vanilla extract. Blend all ingredients till it gets smooth and then bake on a pan for 2 min on each side. Serve with coffee and some berries. Sounds like a perfect breakfast, doesn't it?
Ok, it is lunch time. Steamed vegetables including a small amount of potato would be just fine. If you have some meat leftovers you can mix them with the vegetables. If you do not have any leftovers, add few pieces of chicken. Steamed vegetables with meat will help you to stay full for a longer time.
Dinner, day two is also about relaxation. Roast chicken, make delicious Caesar salad and enjoy fruit for dessert. I suggest oranges, apples and pears. They are lower in sugar.
Good morning! This is third day in our modified ketogenic diet meal plan. I have something special for you. Zucchini noodles with eggs and bacon. Cut your bacon into thin strips, so it look like noodles and cook about 3 minutes on a heavy pan. Then add zucchini noodles, salt, pepper or any other seasoning you like and mix it all. Then break one or two eggs, depending on how hungry you are. Cover it and cook for 3 min on each side. Serve hot with fresh orange and pear juice.
Your lunch will be simple and very appreciated. I allow you to have small amount of French fries. It has to be really small, about 50 grams. Got it? Add some meat. It could be boiled chicken to balance the French fries. Green salad and herbal tea is highly appreciated too.
Now we get to our modified ketogenic dinner. Would you like something special? I think roasted turkey breast will be exactly what you need. Cook it in the oven, make it healthier. Serve with Mexican sauce; don't forget about high carbs level. So it is better not to drown your turkey in that sauce. Ok? Boil broccoli and add it to the turkey in the oven 5 minutes before it is ready. Herbal tea and a few pieces of orange for dessert would be great to finish that holiday like dinner.
This is it. Your modified ketogenic diet meal plan. I didn't say anything about snacks, because most people on ketogenic diet are fine without them. If you feel you require snack eat nuts and a small amount of dried fruit. I prefer 2-3 pieces of prunes and figs. I hope you will enjoy it too. Do not forget about water and sports. Yes, the most important thing you should keep in your mind – this is still a healthy lifestyle change!


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Grant Procedural Steps:
Follow these steps when writing a grant:
Step 1:
Discuss the grant opportunity with your principal or supervisor. Make sure you get approval from your principal or supervisor. Make sure your grant proposal supports your school improvement plan and/or district strategic goals and complies with Education Technology standards for technology if applicable.
Step 2:
Review "Grant Procedures" located on the district website under the School Board Section for Administrative Procedure 6111. Determine which one of the four grant types you are developing and follow the appropriate board administrative approval procedures.
Step 3:
If your grant proposal exceeds $50,000, requires the signature of the superintendent, is a Federal or State government grant, budgets for full-time or employee compensation, requires completion of a contract or Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), obligates district or implementation support or sustainability beyond funding cycle, requires matching funds, or you are seeking grant assistance complete and submit a Request to Develop a Proposal Form as you must obtain Board approval in accordance with Administrative Procedures 6111 to write and submit the grant application.
Words of Caution:
- Partnerships between schools and outside organizations often require a letter of agreement/support or a Memorandum Of Understanding (MOU). All letters and/or MOU's should be carefully reviewed by a site based administrator, district level supervisors, and/or staff legal counsel. It is vital to ensure the partnership supports the intent of the grant as well as the mission of the school district and does not provide a method of for the partner organization to market their goals, goods, or services.
- Matching and/or in-kind requirements that obligate the school or school district to providing financial support of any kind must be reviewed carefully. Source of the match or in-kind funding must be identified in the budget and the funder will expect verification of matching/in-kind funds in the required grant reporting.
- Technology hardware and software purchases through grant funding must be reviewed by Educational Technology and/or Leading and Learning prior to submission to ensure compatibility and compliance with district technology/curriculum standards.
- Organizations offering grants requiring the exclusive purchase or their goods or services are basically product discounts. Read these type of applications very carefully as you will more than likely be obligated to purchase the product or services not covered by the discount. If the offer sounds to good to be true then proceed with caution.
- All equipment, materials, hardware, software etc. acquired through a grant must adhere to district procurement requirements at the time of purchase. If in doubt check first with the district purchasing department for guidance.
- Assets acquired through grant funding become the property of the school/district in accordance with Board administrative procedure 7300 section B.2. All equipment, materials, hardware, software etc. acquired through a grant is the property of the school/district division receiving the grant not the individual writing the grant. In the event the individual who wrote the grant is no longer employed with the district the assets remain the property of the school/district and is not to be taken as personal property by the individual. In the event the individual who wrote the grant is transferred to another school the assets acquired through the grant are not automatically transferable. If the individual wishes to transfer the assets from one school to another within the district the principal must adhere to Board administrative procedure 7300 section B.4.


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Throws, Cushions, Blankets
Irish Wool Corran Large Throw – Pink Heather
Our Irish wool throw balances the tradition of Irish wool weaving through a stylish chevron design (Corran in Irish). Made from 'Galway' sheep fleece blended with lambswool; carded, spun, designed dyed, woven and finished at our mill in Graignamanagh.
Fibres: Irish Wool ('Galway' fleece and Lambswool blend)
Size: 54″ x 72″ / 135 x 180cm
Weight: 950g
1 in stock
Product Care
We recommend professional dry cleaning for our products, all of which are made from natural fibres. Spot cleaning with cold water and mild detergent suds is possible if carried out by dabbing the fabric i.e. not rubbing the fabric.


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(Pocket-lint) - Going to Wembley Stadium is an exciting trip on its own. But going, not to watch football but to zipline across the stadium, is even more exhilarating.
We were invited to take the plunge across one of the world's most famous football pitches. What better way to capture and share it than to film it all in 360-degree virtual reality?
We strapped on the Kodak SP360 which, as the name suggests, captures video in full 360-degree surround. Then, after putting on a host of safety harness clips and a worryingly sturdy helmet, we were escorted to the top of Wembley Stadium.
The zipwire ran from one side of the stands to the other, directly over the grass that's been home to some of the most iconic games in the world. Seeing it from this perspective is a once in a lifetime experience. Since the zipwire was a temporary thing we captured it in 360-degrees so others can experience it too, in virtual reality.
The process is relatively simple. After setting up the camera, using a connected smartphone, everything is captured. Then getting the data off is as easy as removing the microSD and attaching it to a computer with the Kodak software. You can choose how to output it with panorama, circle, split-screen and many other options. We opted for virtual reality, which has it's own dedicated auto upload to YouTube feature.
Now if you have Google Cardboard or equivalent you can watch the video on YouTube for an all immersive experience. There's nothing in the world that can share an experience quite as impressively as VR. Check out the videos to see what we mean.


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We have professional experience in industry, healthcare, unions and e-commerce. We offer demand-oriented consulting and external web-project management. Our services include competence in technology for decision makers, marketers and staff employees.
The activities of blindwerk – neue medien can be quickly summarized:
Easing access to the internet and accompanying processes on the internet. And through these activities, improving the digital address of customers and generating market shares.
Working in an undistracted and highly concentrated environment of a rural countryside, this agency creates transparent and consistent solutions which attach great importance to quality and achieve convincing results: greater market shares via online channels. This agency's activity is marked by more than ten years of outstanding customer satisfaction and a great number of awards.
Some of our customers:
Fuchs Lubritech, Roto Dachfenster, Dr.O.K.Wack Chemie, Askubal, InterComponentWare, Freudenberg, John Deere, Bremer Leguil, Polytan, Quantum, EEG, SAK, Touratech, Winkler, 1und1, Ceceba, Maskador, Endres und Hauser, Testo, Energieplattform, LSVD, Diakonie, Alpen Adria Universität, FIZ Karlsruhe, ZEW, IGA, ZPID, TU KL, Land Rheinland-Pfalz, VR-Bank, FH Würzburg, Ostasieninstitut, Landau-Land, Stadt Ludwigshafen, Park-Brauerei, Karamalz, vinovega, Altes Schlößchen, Ohlinger Korken, Uniklinikum Würzburg, BG Nahrungsmittel und Gastgewerbe, Unfallkasse des Bundes, BG Klink Ludwigshafen und Tübingen, Berufsgenossenschaft Holz und Metall, Schupp, Glock Health, Elfenmaar Klinik, brandeins, Callwey, Rockland Radio, Schaffler Verlag...
A strong global community of marketers, agencies and developers is forming a unique network of industry professionals, that believes inspiring people to share is key to success. Our network is the perfect place to find the perfect partner for your digital project.Find your TYPO3 partner


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School Days . . . Comin' Up!!!
Labor Day is a glorious holiday because your child will be going back to school the next day. It would have been called Independence Day, but that name was already taken.
~ Bill Dodds
The whole purpose of education is to turn mirrors into windows.
~ Sydney J. Harris
An investment in knowledge always pays the best interest.
~ Attributed to Benjamin Franklin
As long as there are tests, there will be prayers in schools.
~ Author unknown
The illiterate of the 21st Century will not be those who cannot read and write, but those who cannot learn, unlearn, and relearn.
~ Alvin Toffler


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Contact a sales agent to assist you with your purchase.
Our staff are available to answer any questions you may have about this item.
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I will buy more of this product soon
By Manu
from Orlando, FL
About Me Midrange Shopper
Best Uses
I use it as a stool for my bedroom armoire where I keep my laptop instead of a tv. I built a sliding shelf in it so I can pull out the laptop when I use it. The stool height 26" is just right for it. I keep the armoire doors closed and the stool sit next to my 42" wall mounted tv. I am very pleased with the overall look :) I plan to buy more of this product to replace my barstools, but the 30" height.
Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
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Very well made!
By debster
from Newport News, VA
This is a great stool for the kitchen. I have cherry cabinets with black granite tops and these stools were the perfect find. They are solid and are do not wobble. Look much more expensive than what I paid.
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"My god captain, the Alliance are hunting for the Tranny from Kinky Boots. Is there no end to the depth of their depravity?"
He then puts the mike down and rushes back to make sure the engines can give it all they've got.
America's Civil War
American History
Aviation History
Civil War Times
Military History
Wild West
World War II


text: As my daughter and I crossed Times Square, this man walked towards the tribune which is situated just there. The intense look on his face and the sign he was holding made me grab my camera and take this picture. After that, I watched him sort of fall into the bunch of people who sat on the tribune. A lot of thoughts crossed my mind and one was: what makes people having the urge to do these sort of things?


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Recent Posts
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Tag Archives: survey
Humble beginnings
Posted on December 25, 2010 by armor272010
The idea of making money online was introduced by my friend. I don't know much about computers or being online. He was supposed to install a pc program so that we can start working at home. The idea of having a home … Continue reading →
Posted in Making money online, Uncategorized | Tagged A.W. Survey, anew, Beginning, free paying surverys, help, help and earn, Humble beginnings, making money, new, new life, paid survey, start, survey | Leave a comment


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Accies Edge Playoff
As you may have seen from the papers today, the 1st XV lost their promotion playoff at Hawthornden on Saturday, with Accies retaining their place in the top flight after a 23-13 victory.
Accies took the lead through a try by centre Iain Berthinussen before Nick McCashin landed two penalties to give us a 6-5 lead. An Alex Blair penalty gave Accies a two point lead at the break.
Accies then stretched their lead after the restart via a Nyle Godsmark try and another Blair penalty, but Cash then scored and converted a try to make the score 16-13 to Accies with 30 minutes to play.
We were pinned on our try line for most of that time, our superb defence only succumbing in the 77th minute when Accies No. 8 Callum Reid dived over for his team's third try to make the game safe.
With Gav having been away in London at the weekend, it falls to me to write the full match report for the website. I'll do that later in the week, at which point further photos from the match (and the players' party back at Inverleith afterwards) will also appear.


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Center for Drug Evaluation and Research
Also found in: Acronyms, Wikipedia.
Center for Drug Evaluation and Research,
A division of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration that reviews and oversees the manufacture of pharmaceuticals distributed to U.S. citizens and provides clinical information about the uses and hazards of drugs. Website: www.fda.gov/cder/


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Training for a Cause
Photo by Joseph Photography
Warren Wish finishes eating dinner with his wife just as the restaurant's evening rush hits its peak. As the couple gets up to leave, a dog jumps out from under the table and casually follows them out the door. But in Wish's hometown, few of the other patrons turn and stare; they're used to seeing him with a furry, four-legged companion.
Wish, who served as a counselor at Eagle Valley Middle School in Carson City, Nevada, for 36 years before retiring, trains seeing-eye dogs. Over the past 25 years, he has trained 23 dogs to maintain their composure in any situation—even under tables in busy restaurants.
While training, guide dogs accompany their trainer everywhere. During his decades as an educator, Wish often brought his dogs to school, and talked to everyone about them. Several students and faculty followed his example over the years by becoming trainers.
Wish's school often contained (and still does) eight to 10 guide-dogs-in-training every day. Not only did these dogs teach students the importance of service, Wish says, but they also improved the overall learning environment.
"The dogs were some of the best students we had in the school—and they made the kids behave too," Wish says. "You could threaten to take the dog out if the students weren't paying attention."
Wish says many retired educators would make capable trainers: They often go to unique places, which is important for the training process, and they would be naturals at educating people about the role of guide dogs in society.
There is a downside, though: saying farewell. When a dog is ready to graduate from training, the trainer is introduced to the dog's future owner.
"Each time, we cry, even after 23 dogs," Wish says. "We cry when we have to say good-bye to the dog, but they are also tears of joy…you know how much it means to someone else that you've given them the ability to lead a normal life."
— Collin Berglund
Frank Colbert, Jr.
Retired 2007
I taught 7th and 8th grade reading and language arts for most of my 35-year career in Dallas. Now I serve as president for the retired local and as a state delegate for the Texas State Teachers Association.
What do you enjoy most about retirement?
I enjoy having the opportunity to do what I want to do. I don't have to look at the clock. I've always desired to open my own business. Now, I have the chance to focus on my own tile and carpet installation company—started in 2008. In addition to my business, I enjoy working with NEA-Retired. It's allowed me the opportunity to continue to meet new people and make new friends.
Lucy Nefstead
Retired 2008
I taught English, theater, and speech, and directed plays at Rhinelander High School in Wisconsin for 40 years. I'm a longtime delegate to NEA's Representative Assembly and now serve on the board of the Wisconsin Education Association-Retired.
What NEA experiences have been particularly meaningful to you?
I started an NEA-Retired chapter in my region of Northern Wisconsin. It was needed so we could go on being politically active. Also, going to the RA as a Retired member is a highlight—it is moving to see all these educators striving toward a common goal.


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Check out and LIKE us on Facebook to follow other industry news!
Today's news that may be of interest to you:
Retire Here, Not There: Washington
SmartMoney | June 25, 2012
Forget Seattle. Here are four less expensive places to settle down in the Evergreen State. (Guess which communities made the short list? Spokane is one of them! ~Anthony)
Mortgage Refi Boost May Be Short-lived
HousingWire | June 25, 2012
The refinancing surge on government-backed mortgages may run out in August, bank analysts said Monday.
Avoid Fireworks at the Family Summer Home
The Wall Street Journal | June 25, 2012
A jointly owned property comes with a host of issues that need to be spelled out and formalized to avoid any family squabbling down the road.
New-home Sales Rise
The Washington Post | June 25, 2012
Americans bought new homes in May at the fastest pace in more than two years.
Senate Bill Would Drive Up Flood-Insurance Premiums
The Wall Street Journal | June 25, 2012
Vacation homes and commercial properties in flood-prone areas could see their flood-insurance premiums more than double over a four-year period under a bill poised to clear the Senate this week. (We may finally have resolution and certainty for an extended period on flood insurance. It sounds like we're close anyway. ~Anthony)
5 Projections of Where the Housing Market's Headed
RealtorMag | June 25, 2012
Real estate markets across the country are inching their way to a slow recovery after bottoming out, according to several real estate economists who spoke at a forum hosted by the National Association of Real Estate Editors.
SEC stops $100 million real-estate based Ponzi scheme
HousingWire | June 25, 2012
The Securities and Exchange Commission filed a complaint against a man accused of running a $100 million real estate based Ponzi scheme in Utah.
Anthony V. Carollo / President
Stewart Title of Spokane
606 W. 3rd Ave.
Spokane, WA 99201
Telephone: 509.328.7171
Direct Line: 509.321.3939
Direct Fax: 866.652.8834
Please remember to choose Stewart Title of Spokane on your next transaction!


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Company - Old Town Public House 21314 Catawba Ave, Cornelius, NC 28031, USA
Join us for the next edition of OTPH's exciting new Songwriters Showcase series as we feature some of the area's most talented artists in a Round Robin style performance!
How does it work? 3 artists will rotate songs on stage while telling stories about their music and accompanying each other on certain songs. Pretty simple, right!? Well, it's going to be a ton of fun and we're thrilled to have host Dane Page put it all together.
This week's showcase will feature:
Jordan C. Minor
Nathan Aaron Dowdy
Dane Page
21314 Catawba Ave, Cornelius, NC 28031, USA


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Hi bloggers! Here's a video using the Just A Note Music Frame and I will show you how to make a "piano keyboard" sort of side border for it too.
Follow my blog with Bloglovin
A daily papercrafting blog which features my handmade cards showcasing Creative Expression's products including my own line of cutting dies and embossing folders, Cosmic Shimmer, Ranger and more which use various techniques and ideas to hopefully inspire the creativity in you.
Morning Sue. Looking forward to watching the first video tutorial of 2019. This is just one of the very useful frames on my list so watching you put it all together will be a great start to my day of craft.
Hope you manage to watch lovely Lisa work her magic at some point and enjoy your day xxx
Hello Sue and all
This is such a good card for music lovers, I watched the video on You Tube when it came out, love the piano keyboard and the colouring through the die too. New Years resolution to make cards using this die !!!
Muriel x
Morning Sue.
Thank you a brilliant card and, a great tutorial.
Take care and have fun Kitty.
Brilliant card Sue and love the colours you have chosen
Marion S x
Good Morning Sue and all
Brilliant card for the all the music lovers and great design for mens cards . The piano keyboard border looks fantastic down the side of the card. thank you for creating the video.
Crafty hugs and well wishes to all... Wendy
Hello Sue,
"Just To Say" thanks for sharing your card and video today. Such a clever idea to use the weaving die to get strips to make your key board. Very clever. A great card, especially for music lovers.
Enjoy your weekend.
Hi Sue, lovely card today. Love the color way.
Barbara V
Morning Sue and all Wilsonettes, stunning sample, will watch the video later, love the keyboard.
Stay safe, healthy and happy, hugs June Smith xxx
Very different
Hello Sue, great card and video.The music die is so useful for lots of occasions and ages. I love the keyboard and how you've done it. Thanks for sharing xx
Hi Sue
A lovely card. I'll watch the video later.
B xx
Fabulous card Sue xx Hazel
Clever card, making the keyboard.
Morning Sue and all Wilsonettes
Beautiful card today, going to make a cuppa and watch the video now.
Sending love and healing hugs to all that need them xx
Have a lovely day everyone
Hunnymummy54 from MK
Good morning Sue lovely card such a clever way to make the piano keys
Great card today, looking forward to watching your video later.
Good morning Sue,
Thank you for a great video tutorial. This die is already on my wishlist and your beautiful card has given me more wonderful inspiration for when I get it.x
Hi Sue and lovely wilsonettes x
Fantastic card Sue x a brilliant idea for the keyboard and the frame is great x thankyou Sue x
Theresa w in Berks xxx
Hi Sue - such a brilliant card for any music lover and I look forward to watching the video later this morning to see how you've achieved the keyboard. Sending best wishes
Morning Sue,
Great card for somebody that loves music.
Good Morning Sue. Lovely card today Sue. And wow what you can do with those left over weaving pieces.... what a great idea..... and really has made a brilliant embellishment to your card. This is a really lovely and fun card. Thankyou Sue. Sending best wishes to everyone. Kind regards Ann Toppcards Leeds
What a great card for all music lovers & such a clever way to create the piano keys using the weaving strips, I must remember that as I have to make different music cards. Thank you for the tip Sue.
Beautiful! Love how you combined the dies!
Lovely card SUE Neat trick for making the piano
What s beauty today sue love the keyboard love it thank you sue
Love always June horrocks xxxxxxxxx
This is awesome :)) Thanks for a great video!
Hi Sue
BRILLIANT - love this card. The keyboard is ingenious. This die is not yet in my collection but it is right at the top of my wish/want list.
Just watching Lisa on HOCHANDA but your video is the next thing on my to do list!
As a child I was 'forced' to endure piano lessons. Also played the Oboe and Guitar. Oh how I wish I had stuck at it. My dad is in his 80's and still tinkles the ivory's and his full size accordion comes with him whenever he visits. He plays other instruments as well so this die is a must have for me.
Happy Saturday everyone
Crafty hugs
Yvonne x
Good morning Sue and all Wilsonettes.
A delightful card today Sue and a great video. I love that piano keyboard and it makes a definite statement doesn't it? Suitable also as a male card in some cases.
You never fail to amaze me with your talents
Hope you have a good weekend.
Marie P.
so very beautiful and fab die Sue
Gr Karin
Great card for a music lover. x
Hi Sue, a really great card, and super video. Your ideas and inspiration are awesome. Bx
What a fun card, Sue.
Anne (Northampton)
Good morning Sue,
A fantastic card for anyone who is into their music. Yvonne xx
Hi Sue, lovely card. love Jean Z xxxx
Hi Sue, a lovely card. Great for those into musical instruments and music lovers. Thanks for your video.
Hi Sue not one of my personal favourites but can see how versatile and useful the dies will be for those musicians in the family or friends, so still a thumbs up from me.
Morning Sue, lovely card, would be great for my grandson who plays guitar! My beautiful Granddaughter Erin plays the Harp but can never find a die or even a nice stamp suitable, maybe in the future?? Love Jean xxx
Hi Sue
Thank you for the great video and card today, love the key board and how you made it
Love and hugs to everyone
Hi Sue. I think this is such a great die as I have so many friends who love their music. Love the card that you have made using it.
A very unique card! Love the frame because it's unique! Pretty too!
Hi Sue beautiful card today & loved the video thank you
Love Lynda xx
Very pretty indeed, great idea how you made the piano keyboard...lovely card for a musician...luv Ursula xx
Hi Sue this is a stunning card those dies are just amazing. Have a great weekend. Take care. Hugs Jackie
Hi Sue, not sure why but this card just doesn't gel for me, sorry. Clever use of the fall-away pieces from the weaving die and a good way of making sure the strips are all the same size. Thanks for the video, good clear instructions as always.
Love that piano key border, which is a wonderful accent for the music frame!
Hi Sue,
What a fabulous card, love the piano keyboard..... And that music frame is wonderful...
Hugs, Rose
Missed this yesterday, lovely card, not sure
what the pesticide thing is though
Doreen x
Like this lots. Very clever.
A fab card for the music lovers in our lives.


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Section: Welcome
Welcome to the Private Applicator Training website. Below are the courses that are currently available.
Preparation for the Private Applicator Training
This course will help prepare you for the private applicator test. You still need to take the private applicator test in person. After completing this course, you can attend a test-only clinic or make an appointment with Illinois Department of Agriculture. The test is not available online.
Grain Fumigation
Private Applicators who fumigate their own grain can use this online training course to prepare for the Grain Fumigation Exam.
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Art by Maggidah Shoshannah Brombacher, Ph.D.
Visit her gallery
Contact her at email@example.com – originals from this series are available.
"..and cast it down before Pharaoh, that it become a serpent." (Parasha Va'era; Exodus 7:9)
G!d is speaking to both Moses and Aaron here, giving Aaron instructions on how to proceed in the upcoming "battle of magic" with the Egyptians. Note, the 'serpent' is not a snake – nachas – but a kind of large sea creature – tannin – that seem almost mythological in their great size. The midrash says:
We have learnt: One who is praying must not return the greeting even of a king; and even if a snake has entwined itself round his heel, he must not cease.
Midrash Rabbah – Exodus IX:3
This seems to be a simple injunction, only peripherally related to the text. Even the midrash changes the word from 'serpent' to 'snake,' perhaps to make the practical version seem more "realistic."
I believe there are parallel lessons here. The first, at the p'shat – simple, explicit – level is that prayer requires focused intent – kavannah – in order to allow us to achieve the greatest result. If we can pray with such concentration that even a king's command, or warriors swirling around us, or a snake biting at our heel cannot distract us, how wonderful that would be!
For the next step, go back to the story for a moment: Here stands Aaron, about to confront Pharaoh, knowing that his staff is going to turn into a huge, monstrous sea serpent. And when he does, a gaggle of Pharaoh's magicians do the same: Loch Ness monsters writhing around everyone! And through it all, Aaron has the composure not to break his concentration, staying with the moment, until his monster swallows all the others. What prodigious kavannah! How can we ever hope to achieve this?
For me, the answer lies in part in ritual. For example, when I davven (pray) in the morning, I have come to think of my preparations – donning gartle (prayer belt), tallit (prayer shawl) and tefillin (phylacteries) – as donning a kind of protective armor. Not to guard myself from the world of spirit, but from the material world and its calls upon me. In this way, it has become easier for me to make the transition into the world of prayer filled with more kavannah.
What rituals do you use – with or without objects – to deepen your kavannah and encounter with Spirit?
Tags: aggadah, Jewish, maggidut, midrash, Storytelling, Torah study, Va'era


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'Voice' contestant shuts down Internet trolls with emotional performance
Kyla Jade faced down her haters on The Voice on Monday night when she sang "This Is Me" from The Greatest Showman soundtrack. Kyla told her coach, Blake Shelton, "My life is this song. I had a guy say, 'Oh, she has a great voice but I could never look at her in concert.'"
Kyla has struggled with self-esteem her whole life, so she wanted to send a message with this song. "I never felt pretty, so if I can help another girl to realize that she is amazing, then I've done what I need to do," she said. Kyla was crying during rehearsals at one point, and the emotions carried over to the live show, where she struggled to hold it together during the powerful performance.
Following the performance, Kyla got some words of encouragement from Alicia Keys. "I don't know whoever or whatever systemic institutionalized garbage made you ever feel less than the glorious of goddess that you are," Alicia told her, "but it is not real."
While the Internet is full of garbage, it's also full of love. Following Kyla's performance, there was an outpouring of support.
Well.. I'm still on a high from @kylasings performance!
Thank You Kyla, for being so real, and sharing your heart with us! I admire you for that. It makes your music sound that much more beautiful, too!#thevoice #voicetop10
— Indiana Sweetheart✨ (@that1elisagirl) May 8, 2018
So it seems likely that we'll get to hear Kyla's beautiful voice on the show again next week.
The Voice airs Mondays and Tuesdays at 8 p.m. on NBC. Watch clips and full episodes of The Voice for free on Yahoo View.
Check out Janelle Monáe's sexy performance on The Voice that raised concerns on Twitter:
Read more from Yahoo Entertainment:
- 'Idol' contestant flubs performance and is eliminated while also making TV history
- Kesha on the 2018 Grammys: 'The scariest day of my life'
- Parkland student shares tender moment with 'Voice' contestant
Tell us what you think! Hit us up on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram — or leave your comments below. And check out our host, Kylie Mar, on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram.


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Lesley Kernochan House Concert at Rob Stroups'
House Concert at Rob & Naomi's! Rob Stroup is the amazing man who co-produced, recorded, and mixed The Pickle Jar. I love this guy, and it is an honor to play a house concert at his home. I'll be mixing up the old and new, the funky and the folky, as usual. Come for this special night of cuddling on the couch and music. If you'd like to join us, please RSVP at email@example.com and I will send you the address. Thanks!


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In 1998 the Review of Maritime Transport, an annual publication prepared by the UNCTAD secretariat, celebrated its thirtieth anniversary. This guide to the maritime and related industries identifies major developments in world maritime transport and provides comprehensive statistical data on all aspects of supply and demand for shipping services.
The 1998 edition offers up-to-date information on trends in seaborne trade as well as on fleet development, including such features as beneficial ownership, fleet productivity, freight market analysis, port development and multimodal transport. It focuses in particular on the trade and transport of East and South-East Asia, which are suffering from the effects of the 1997/1998 economic slowdown and financial crisis. The publication examines overall trends in seaborne trade and transport, analysing the comparative performance of different regions from a developmental perspective.
United Nations Conference on Trade and Development
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WelcomeWe offer photo coffee mugs, refrigerator magnets, photo greeting cards, and framed photography using photographs of beautiful New Hampshire and Vermont Scenery.
Hanson Studio offers a variety of photographs and collages of Vermont and New Hampshire. We have images of all of the New Hampshire and Vermont Covered Bridges. Hanson Studio photographs can be used on promotional coffee mugs or magnets. Our greeting cards work well as "Thank You" or "Thinking of You" notes. Please take a look and contact us if you see something you like.
Hanson Studio is pleased to announce that our images are now available as puzzles from Piece Time Puzzles, LLC. These puzzles make great gifts for friends or family members. Puzzles also make wonderful fund raisers. Please visit the Piece Time Puzzles web site using this link or visit their store in Northwood, NH at 746 First NH Turnpike.Hanson Studio is a proud member of New Hampshire Made, promoting New Hampshire Made Foods, Products, and Services.
Tim and Jill Hanson
Hanson Studio
276 Pepere's Rd.
Charlestown, NH 03603
Phone: 603-826-5185
Email: email@example.com


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Teamwork Sports Blue | CDP19
Coach Wilson & Young
Team Number: 20191568
Team Name: Teamwork Sports Blue
Week of Play: July 27, 2019
CheckIn: 6pm on Friday July 26
CheckOut: 8am on Friday August 2
Team Number: 20191568
Team Game Video Access Code: R2g219wvp!
Weekly Highlights Access Code: Mgdzlot7v!
Each Roster Player will be able to download each video one time before November 1, 2019.
Click Here to complete the TSKC CDP19 Player Registration | Monthly Payment Plan available
Click Here to learn more about Cooperstown Dreams Park
Click Here for more information on Parent Accommodations
Please print and complete each of these four documents and bring with you to Cooperstown. One document requires a doctor signature and another requires a copy of immunization history. These four documents should be completed on four sheets of paper (do not print and complete on both sides of two sheets of paper.) These four documents plus an original birth certificate (not a copy) or a valid passport will be required at check-in.
As we prep for the #CDP19 Baseball Trip of a Lifetime, please see the team workout schedule published on the TSKC SportsEngine team page. Dates/Times subject to change based on weather, field availability due to KC 3&2 Baseball Playoffs, or other conflicts.
TSKC Player Gear & FanWear PreOrder Pricing ends Sunday April 28. Click Below for complete inventory.
Akadema Cage Jacket
Alleson 1/4 Zip Fleece
Open Workout for players interested in joining the roster and playing in Cooperstown with us this July 2019. The player workout will be Sunday February 10 from 630-730pm followed by a short parent information meeting. All 12u players making the trip or interested in joining the roster welcome to attend.
Help Support the 2019 Cooperstown Dreams Park trip of a lifetime for two Teamwork Sports Thunder teams. 25 families will be making the July 2019 baseball trip of a lifetime to represent Teamwork Sports Thunder Baseball and play in Cooperstown NY. Our SuperBowl Square fundraiser is a great way to help support the effort.
Log in, select your squares, send payment via PaylPal (or coordinate payment with Sean Wilson), and watch the SuperBowl. Numbers will be randomly assigned when the grid is fully so every square has an equal chance of winning.
Click the SuperBowl LIII logo at TeamworkSportsKC.com to participate.
Parent/Player CDP19 Information Meeting will be held Sunday January 27 at 6pm. Teamwork Sports Blue Wilson will be taking an "all star" team of 12u players from the Kansas City metro area to Cooperstown Dreams Park in July 2019. If you would like to join the team and make the baseball trip of a lifetime, please plan to attend this Parent/Player Information Meeting to learn more and register to join the team.
Click Here for more information about the 2019 Teamwork Sports Blue #CDP19 coached by Sean Wilson and Nelson Young.


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On Moderation:Defending anAncient Virtue in a Modern World
Some years ago a young Southern Baptist minister in North Carolina, identifying her political stance in that church, remarked: "I am not a flaming moderate." But moderation seldom bursts into flame. It's one of the quiet virtues. These days in Washington, as the entire Republican Senate minority votes as a bloc against most things Democratic, the word moderate is a word of hope—hope for a legislative justice that can emerge from compromise and debate of issues inside and between the parties.
Philosopher Harry Clor, emeritus professor of political science at Kenyon College, understands that among most religiously committed persons, moderate morality gets bad press. Aristotle, the great classical proponent of moderation, once remarked that a wise philosopher would never run but would instead walk deliberately, refusing to rush into any situation without prudent attention to circumstance and consequence. One might contrast Aristotle's wise philosopher with the father in Jesus' parable of the prodigal son: "He ran and embraced him." Not much moderation there.
Lest any potential reader dismiss Clor's book as merely a critique of all human behavior worth calling radical, I summarize his work as a disciplined exercise in ethical honesty. Clor knows that ethics is seldom a matter of thinking and doing only one thing and that the virtue of moderation nests among other virtues, principles, values and convictions. He argues for pluralism in ethics, politics and personal life, and in his ruminative, even leisurely fashion, Clor draws readers into considering our human need for "balance or proportionality, recognition of limits, some capacity for disinterestedness" in all our personal and social relations.
In his opening chapter on politics, Clor sides with Aristotle and Edmund Burke in reminding us that politics is inherently a clash between groups of humans who swear by different authorities, interests and goals. In his middle chapter on personal moderation, he reminds us that it takes more than one goal, principle or commitment to live a human life. You are in trouble if you think that humans live "by bread alone" (Luke 4:4) or that humans can live without bread. On the other hand, in his final chapter, on the "tempered mind," Clor offers some powerful arguments against the radical pluralism of a postmodernism that reduces every claim of truth to its roots in class, power and the particularities of history.
Most of all, these pages call for honest reflection on the inner preferences and outer circumstances of human life, social and personal, that will set us all up for some earnest debate, for conversation in our minds and between our minds. That conversation can deliver us from intellectual totalitarianism, from bondage to one authority, one value, one rush to the confession, "Here I stand." Not even Luther's famous resort to this confession came from a single-minded theology and ethic that had no regard for the many dimensions of the biblical word. How often in modern Christian social ethics have we been reminded that justice without love and love without justice are both deficient?
In a section that demonstrates Clor's respect for experience, he reflects on erotic love, conceding from the start that this is one area in which few of us celebrate moderation. Presenting a test case for ethical and commonsense pluralism, this chapter reminds us that a fulfilling sexual relationship entails more than one impulse to consummation. For sex to be fulfilling, passion needs wisdom and wisdom needs passion. One without the other leads to many a disastrous relationship.
Clor practices what he teaches by tolerating the varieties of human experience and belief while carefully avoiding any idolizing of tolerance, which alone cannot build a society. "Perhaps," writes Clor, "a philosophy of moderation can serve to reduce the distance between belonging to oneself and commitment to others by calling attention to a connection between them."
In reading this book, I was often reminded of Bonhoeffer's insistence that we Christians must reckon with life "in many dimensions." Clor makes it clear that attention to plural principles and circumstances is not a formula for being set adrift in a sea of uncertainties. We do bring more than one certainty to our decisions, and often in the puzzling conflict between them, we do reach out for some overriding certainty that cuts the knot, that authorizes a compromise or a way to discriminate between the right road and roads not taken.
Clor knows, with Barth and Bon hoeffer, that for religiously minded folk, a rational, intellectual way through is not finally available. Secularists tend to cut through conflicting principles by appealing to an overriding principle, value or fact, and they may call that override rational. But for Christians caught in such a conflict, trusting any abstract value as the final ethical authority leaves no room for the authority of the Holy Spirit. When we "walk in the Spirit" (Gal. 5:16), we depend finally on a Presence who helps us in the midst of our pluralistic wrestling.
In many ways Clor does in this slim book exactly what philosophers do best: he sharpens our awareness of the hidden, unconscious assumptions we often bring to our conscious decision making. Clor's readable pages are an antidote to both moralistic absolutism and amoral relativism and are written in a style that is ruminative and well illustrated and does not talk down to the nonspecialist. This book is valuable because it doesn't simply celebrate moderation, but locates moderation among the other virtues.