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A Motion on THIS WEDNESDAY'S SCHOOL COMMITTEE Meeting Agenda basically ask for an –
7.I. [By Connie Martin]: Requesting that the Administration, including all members who are cited as School Committee Representatives, provide the Lowell School Committee with a complete report on the history and current status of the charge filed by the LSAA regarding parking for Central Administration LSAA union members. This report should include:
the legal language differentiating a "charge" vs a "grievance" and notification protocols required by each,
a timeline of past meetings with Union leadership and
all associated documents and minutes from those meetings
We will hopefully find out why did the Superintendent decided NOT TO INFORM THE SCHOOL COMMITTEE? and Why they as a body were kept in the dark.
I cannot see in the LSAA Contract or the Supt's contract that there has to be written notification of a "Charge" but in the School Committee Policy (see above screen shot) item 2 seems pretty clear!! The Superintendent was by School Committee policy required to keep them informed and he instead did the opposite and hid it from them.
Which again makes you ask WHY WOULD YOU REWARD THAT ACTION WITH A CONTRACT?
Why isn't Superintendent attending School Building Committee for LHS Meetings? In addition to not informing the School Committee about the Unfair Labor Charge if you look at the Minutes from the School Building Committee meetings you'll notice that the Supt. attended the first meeting and none since.
He and Gary Frich are BOTH listed as members yet the Supt. hasn't attended despite it being an MSBA directive!
Mayor Kennedy who is listed as a member has been at ZERO meetings and had his aide attend only 2 of them. Councilor Elliott aka the Fiscal watchdog is listed as a member but hasn't attended any and former Supt. George Tsapatsaris has been at only 1.
If these people cannot attend meetings I'm sure there are members of the business community, teachers, bloggers and parents who would be happy to serve and have a voice and a vote.
The MSBA regulations clearly require the establishment of a school building committee ("SBC") in each municipality seeking such funding, as well as set forth the responsibilities and the membership of a SBC. The regulations require the town to make "a reasonable effort" to include representatives from each of the Select Board and the School Committee, the Town Manager, the Superintendent of Schools, the manager with responsibility for maintenance of the new facility, the school principal of the facility, a local budget official, and community members with experience in architecture, engineering and/or construction, among others.
Why 2 sets of Books?
One thing that has concerned me with this Superintendent is his understanding and handling of the fiscal part of the business. His CFO has little Mass municipal experience (as shown in the often postponed budget hearings and number of transfer corrections).
For years the city has "charged" the School Department over $200,000 for Auditor services as part of meeting their net school spending requirements. The Auditor works for the Council directly not the Manager or the School Superintendent.
A few years ago the auditing dept. set the school dept. up for School Based Budgeting and in the Council packet this week you can see the report generated from the MUNIS System which is the accounting software used here in the city, for this fiscal year up through December in that format.
If you look at the January 4th meeting packet of the School Committee you see a fiscal report only through November and in a completely different format. Why?
It seems to be a great waste of time to keep 2 sets of books and have to transfer numbers. Anyone understand why the School Dept. just doesn't use the School based budget designed in the Munis system?
Definition of chameleon:a person who changes their opinions or behavior according to the situation.
August 2015 City Council Vote – 2015 / 501 – Loan Order-High School Feasibility Study ($2,000,000) Approved 9-0 M. Elliott noted amount is about 80% reimbursable.
October 2015 Candidates Forum: @SunGrantWelker: Mayor Elliott prioritizes new Lowell public safety complex over a new high school, calling it in "horrid condition." #lowellpoli
It's an Election year and Lowell's favorite Chameleon aka the self proclaimed Fiscal Watchdog will according to many participants in the political bubble make a motion to NOT INVEST IN A NEW HIGH SCHOOL FOR LOWELL BECAUSE OF THE COST!!
The Fiscal watchdog who when Mayor supported the project, the study and voted so on the Council floor will now say the cost is to high for the taxpayers and turn his and the cities back on 70% – 75% reimbursement from the State.
The next time Lowell has a chance to get $$ for a new High School will be long after Councilor Elliott is retired collecting his Federal and State taxpayer retirement dollars and a new LHS no longer will be his concern.
In Dracut in 2009 political payback, Political Grandstanding and political fighting cost the town over three million dollars in State funding to build elderly housing. To this day they have yet to be able to build and cannot get State money to help them.
Lowell cannot let the Fiscal Watchdog neuter this project in an election year by pandering to the anywhere but Belvidere and No Where but Downtown minority.
Councilor Rita Mercier was correct Tuesday night when she stated we cannot let this opportunity pass us by.
Can't do it as a School Committeeman, will try has a Councilor?
If you believe the rumbling in the bubble Steve Gendron will NOT run for re-election for School Committee but instead will run for Council. He is pushing hard to keep LHS downtown including appearing before the Council last week to both misstate the fact that it would cost $1,000,000 a year for busing (State Law doesn't require busing to ANY High School) while at the same time offering a threat that residents would move out of the neighborhood. Neglecting again to mention that to move out you first have to sell meaning others move in. If you look at the meeting minutes of the building committee you see he's the person who brings up taking the dentist office by eminent domain. It seems Gendron has his own agenda. and it's not what is best for the students but what's best for Steve! He's failing to keep it downtown but as a Councilor who has a say in financial matters maybe he can force his will that way.
Mary Burns is definitely NOT running for any municipal office she confirmed yesterday. Rumors abound about a strong woman from a powerful Lowell family running for Council. The Sheehy's (Molly & Maria) have supposedly stated neither are running.
Remember the outrage when UMass Lowell bought the Perkins building and took it OFF the tax rolls?
"Our taxpayers feel like they're being robbed, and I can't blame them," Councilor Rita Mercier said
Councilor Rodney Elliott said, "It just continues to erode the tax base of the city … unfortunately, it's just more of the burden on businesses and homeowners."
So how would it look if the City Council voted to use City taxpayers money to force out the dentist offices and the nighttime parking for Cobblestones, taking a taxable building off the books? Especially in an Election Year??
There is ZERO chance that this ever hits the Council Floor let alone force the Council to have to publicly vote on it.
Final 3 Presentation with Options
Here is the presentation of the final 3 locations which includes options for the existing site.
The City is required by Law to Post Agenda's – Meeting Minutes and other information that relates to the proposed new/renovated LHS. The delay in doing so was that the city was in the process of releasing a new City of Lowell Website and this page wasn't ready to go.
It is UP now and has information including the above presentation and meeting minutes and will be updated as more information become known. Here are a few interesting (at least to me) notes from the minutes posted on-line
August 11 2016 – 3.3 Opportunities and Constraints
D. Guarriello noted that the existing property is located in downtown Lowell. Their presentation to the committee included three possible renovations of the existing buildings. R. Bell discussed the options and which each would focus on.
Option 1 would focus on developing the western side of the canal.
Option 2 would take a closer look at the 1980s building and build less.
Option 3 would become a hybrid of options 1 and 2.
The Designers proposed a learnings common,which would create a new heart and hub of the school in the current field house. They also discussed adding outdoor space for extracurricular activities and educational use. R. Bell discussed changing the education model from STEM to STEAM (science, technology,engineering, art, and mathematics). He also mentioned the house model that is a tool used by the firm to show what clients think about the project.
October 2016 2.3 Preliminary Evaluation of Alternatives
B. Martin stressed how important the website will be to the project. The site will enable the community to understand how the project will be managed and developed. M. McGovern stated that the City is currently in the process of updating the City's webpage. There will be a button designated for the school project on the City's site that will directly link users to the school project website. The website is an opportunity to post documents, studies and information.It can be used as a public flier from the beginning to the end of the process. The site will visually allow users to get an overview of the project dashboard.
DEC 1st 2016 – 5.1 Base Repair
The base repair scope summary projections exclude Coburn Hall. The base repair for electrical system is $26 M that would include new power and security systems throughout the buildings. The 620 sq. ft. requirement is for the projected enrollment of 35,000 students. The four comparisons are based on the square footage and design enrollment numbers.
The cost per dollar of square footage is greater than $1,000. S.Gendron asked if the options don't match the OMR, can the City used eminent domain and take a building to utilize space on the other side of the canal. The projected repair is based on the assumption of $250M, which seems high but is due to the location. Tight urban spaces with little room to expand make it harder to keep the temporary class rooms on site.
A.Base Repair w/ Small Addition (Bold mine)
The base option would not meet educational goals, only repair and maintenance goals. Based on the evaluation of existing conditions, the cost is estimated to be $231.8M to repair the buildings. S. Gendron asked if the feasibility study is looking into accessing properties.
M. Williams stated that it was being looked into but there is no final decision, it would only be used as a last resort. K. Murphy noted that it would not always be beneficial, for example, the assessed damages from Kerouac Park estimated at $600,000 cost the City $3.5 M.
The MSBA does not cover un-eligible costs such as acquiring property. M. Williams also noted that the option of eminent domain may stall the project and that a City owned property would allow the project to move forward faster.
Existing HS Location
The existing site is in close proximity to services, transportation and parking. The site is also already owned by the City. There are potential environmental issues with construction on the existing site. The site is also limited in space.
Cawley Stadium
The site has 31 usable acres, which is large enough for the project and is city owned. The location does not have close proximity to services and transportation. J. Drown noted that the maximum site cost that the MSBA reimburses is up to 8%. This would include bringing in utilities, parking and lighting. 6 acres are required for parking alone for seniors and staff. The design team noted that they. could build around the football field. M. McGovern discussed the criteria.
There may be a large debate with the general public regarding moving the high school out of the down town area. He noted that a public discussion should be set up. The December 8 meeting can be used to provide the public with the top three sites selected by the SBC.
South Common Park
The site is in close proximity to services and transportation. There are land use restrictions and the usable acreage is 2.3 acres. Approximately $1M in grant funding has been invested into this park to improve the space. Appealing to the legislature may be easier said than done. The OPM has had an experience with this in Westfield where the project was held for 5 years.
R. Underwood stated that the project may shrink and that the reimbursement may as well. B. Martin asked what the next step would be. R. Underwood asked if the change in perception is
what we would want to do. B. Martin noted that the neighborhoods want the High School to be downtown. It was also noted by the design team that the land is dedicated in deed as park land.
M. Vaughn noted that the PDP due diligence requires the SBC to select the top
three sites. He suggested that the SBC vote on the possible locations.
R. Healy motioned that the SBC endorse the three most favorable sites: Existing
HS location, Cawley Stadium, and Wang MS/ LeBlanc Park for more
information. Seconded by G. Frisch. All in favor, so voted.
Interesting to note the Attendees for that meeting all voted in FAVOR of the TOP 3 per the notes above.
So what or who reached out to Steve Gendron to change his mind and try to reopen the South Common spot between the Dec.6th meeting when he voted in favor of the top 3 locations and trying at the Jan. 4th meeting to reopen the South Common location?
1. – Attendance
Attendees: Kevin Murphy, Conor Baldwin, Robert Healy, Mike Vaughn, Brian Martin, Gary
Frisch, Richard Underwood, Lisa DeMeo, Steve Gendron.
Also in attendance: Mike McGovern, Rodney Conley
From Skanska: Mary Ann Williams, Jim Dowd
From Perkins Eastman: Alicia Caritano, Robert Bell


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By Samantha Sheen, AML Director Europe, ACAMS
14 July, 2016
On 5 July 2016, the European Commission ("EC") announced that its proposal to further reinforce the European Union's rules on anti-money laundering ("AML"), to counter terrorist financing ("CFT"), tax evasion and increase transparency around beneficial ownership ("Proposals").
This post summarises the key aspects of the Proposals which explain the types of enhanced due diligence ("EDD") that must be performed on customers who are individuals or legal entities established in High-Risk Countries and named on the EU ML List (see my previous post on The Lists).
Existing EDD Requirements
Article 18 of the 4AMLD requires that Member States must ensure that EDD is undertaken by obliged entities in relation to:
- Cross border correspondent banking relationships
- Politically Exposed Persons ("PEPs"), their family members and close associates
- Prevent correspondent banking relationships with shell banks; and
- Other cases of higher risk identified by the Member States or obliged entities.
Article 18 does not specify the measures that had to be taken when conducting EDD, although certain criteria were identified with respect to cross border correspondent banking relationships.
EDD and High-Risk Third Countries
Under Article 18, EU obliged entities must undertake EDD on individuals or legal entities established in High-Risk Third Countries named on the EU ML List. However, the required EDD measures were not fully defined. The EC proposes that these EDD measures should be specified.
The EC has determined that harmonizing these EDD requirements will avoid or limit the risk of forum-shopping by potential criminals and those financing terrorist activities. It will also create a level playing field at the EU level when dealing with customers established in High-Risk Third Countries. It was believed that some EU countries received an unfair commercial advantage (and one assumes higher financial crime risk exposure) relative to other EU countries who were applying more stringent EDD requirements to High-Risk Third Countries.
The mechanics of these amendments will work such that financial institution ("FIs") will no longer have the discretion to decide the enhanced due diligence measure they will undertake on customers from High-Risk Third Countries. So may, in effect, require that FIs treat customers established in countries in High-Risk Third Countries as if they were High-Risk. Much will depend upon how Member States interpret the term "establish" when transposing these requirements into their AML regulations.
New EDD Requirements
The main amendment consists of a new Article (18a). The Article consists of a specific list of required EDD measures combined with an illustrative list of counter-measures that could also be required.
Member States will now be required to apply at least all of the following measures:
- Obtain additional information on the customer
- Obtain additional information on the intended nature of the business relationship
- Obtain information on the source of funds or source of wealth of the customer
- Obtain information about the reasons for the intended or performed transactions
- Obtain approval from senior management for establishing/ continuing the relationship
- Conduct enhanced monitoring of the relationship by increasing the number and timing of controls applied, and selecting patterns of transactions that need further explanation; and
- Require first payment to be carried out through an account in the customer's name with a bank subject to similar CDD standards.
Second, Member States may also require their FIs to apply one of the following additional EDD measures:
- Apply additional elements of EDD,
- Introduce enhanced relevant reporting mechanisms or systematic reporting of financial transactions, or
- Limit business relationships or financial transactions with individuals or legal entities from the identified country.
Third, Members States themselves can also apply one of the following measures:
- Refuse to allow FIs from those countries to establish branches, subsidiaries or representative offices or otherwise take account of the fact that the FI is from a country that does not have adequate AML/CFT systems
- Prohibit local FIs to establish subsidiaries or representative offices in a High-Risk Third Country or otherwise take account of the fact that the FI is from a country that does not have adequate AML/CFT systems
- Prohibit third party reliance by local FIs on intermediaries in a High-Risk Third Country to have undertaken KYC on a customer
- Require local FIs to review, amend and if necessary terminate correspondent banking relationships with FIs in a High-Risk Third Country
- Require FI branches and subsidiaries based in a High-Risk Third Country to be subject to increased external audit requirements or supervisory examination; or
- Require financial groups with branches or subsidiaries in a High-Risk Third Country to be subject to increased external audit requirements.
When deciding whether to require any of the additional measures listed in above, Member States must base that decision with reference to international evaluation, assessments or AML/CFT standard setters (i.e. FATF) in relation to the risks posed by the High-Risk Third Country.
The list of High-Risk Third Countries has now been published by the EU and can be accessed here.
Possible Next Steps
As a pr-active measure, EU FIs may wish to undertake a high level CDD gap analysis of their EDD measures to assess whether these would meet the proposed EDD requirements under Article 18A where individuals or legal entities are established in High-Risk Third Countries. FIs may also wish to verify whether their current on-boarding and transaction monitoring systems are programmed with thresholds which identify those High-Risk Third Countries named by the EU as High-Risk. Finally, FIs may need to consider whether KYC review requirements may need adjustment to ensure that those customers established in High-Risk Third Countries are subject both to more frequent reviews (given the change in potential risk exposure) and the reviews themselves reflect the EDD requirements in Article 18A.

subset: commoncrawl


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An engaging, affectionate reflection on finding love, making wine, and life in a small rural community.
An engaging, affectionate reflection on finding love, making wine, and life in a small rural community.
The first time Deborah Coddington lived in Martinborough was in the height of the hippy era, when the old mansion Waiura attracted poets, protesters, novelists, photographers, artists and activists. It was a counter-culture scene of some privilege and distinction. However, the music stopped when, crushed by debts, she and her partner Alister Taylor were forced to leave town.
Nearly 40 years on, with a successful career as a journalist, a stint as a restaurateur and a term in Parliament behind her, Deborah returned to Martinborough not quite sure of the welcome she would receive.
In this wry, amusing and heartfelt memoir, she writes of finding a community full of outstanding and entertaining individuals that demonstrates the can-do, all-in-this-together spirit of provincial New Zealand. Now a good deal wiser and very much in love with her new husband, Colin Carruthers QC, Deborah lays some ghosts to rest, writes movingly about the death of her mother, details the vicissitudes of being a wine grower and shares the joy of life with her beloved animals.
Confiding, candid and generous of heart, this is a tribute to small-town New Zealand.


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Meet The Inspector General
Jay N. Lerner was confirmed by the U.S. Senate as the Inspector General for the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), and he was sworn in as the third presidentially appointed FDIC Inspector General on January 9, 2017.
As Inspector General, Mr. Lerner leads an Office whose mission is to detect and deter waste, fraud, and abuse at the FDIC, and to promote economy and efficiency within the Corporation. He oversees a nationwide workforce of approximately 140 criminal investigators, auditors, evaluators, and other professional staff, with an annual budget of approximately $36 million. The Office conducts reviews and makes recommendations for improvement of the FDIC's operations and programs, and investigates significant matters of misconduct so as to preserve the integrity of the banking system and protect the savings of individuals, families, and businesses.
Mr. Lerner most recently worked as the Chief of Staff and Senior Counsel at the Department of Justice (DOJ) Office of the Inspector General. In this role, he provided leadership in the strategic and policy direction for the Office, as well as input into the overall planning, operations, and management of the Office, including all five of its divisions. Mr. Lerner also worked with Department leadership on various matters, oversaw Congressional relations for the Office, and managed liaison relations with other Inspectors General and oversight bodies.
Prior to this position, Mr. Lerner was Assistant Chief in the Fraud Section in the Criminal Division at DOJ, where he provided guidance and counsel on financial fraud efforts and enforcement initiatives. In addition, he has held several other senior positions, including as Associate General Counsel for Strategic Oversight and Review, and Chief Counsel for Security at the Department of Homeland Security Office of the General Counsel, and Deputy Chief Counsel (Criminal Enforcement) at the Transportation Security Administration.
In addition, Mr. Lerner was a prosecutor in the Criminal Division at DOJ, during which time he worked on banking and money laundering cases and he was a Special Assistant U.S. Attorney. He also served as an overseas Legal Advisor providing training to foreign prosecutors and as Counsel for Multilateral Affairs.
Mr. Lerner has taught several courses on criminal law and law enforcement issues at the George Washington University, National Advocacy Center, and elsewhere. Mr. Lerner earned his Juris Doctor degree from the University of Pennsylvania Law School. He also received a Bachelor of Science degree in Accountancy from the University of Illinois, and he passed the Certified Public Accountant Examination.


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Inspiring Fundraiser Originates on Geoff Notkin's "Club Space Rock" Forum
Tucson, AZ, August 29, 2014 –(PR.com)– A discussion on Club Space Rock (CSR), an online forum and social network created by Geoff Notkin of TV's Meteorite Men, has led to a unique crowdfunding campaign started by members of the forum. The $5,000 raised will help a deserving CSR member take her first meteorite hunting trip.
Notkin started Club Space Rock (http://meteorites.ning.com) in 2009 as a place for scientists, academics, professional meteorite hunters, dealers, collectors, and enthusiasts to share news and information about meteorites. CSR quickly became the world's largest online meteorite forum and currently has over 3,300 members across the globe.
One of those members, Marissa Fanady, is a 23-year-old college student and amateur astronomer who became fascinated by space rocks several years ago, when she witnessed a brilliant meteor shower that happened to peak on her birthday. After purchasing her first authentic meteorite from Notkin's company, Aerolite Meteorites, she began dreaming of a real-life expedition to unearth a meteorite of her own.
Fanady's challenge is more than just financial, however. Born with Spinal Muscular Atrophy, she was not expected to live past the age of 13. Marissa has never walked on her own and has been in a wheelchair since age 4. "My muscle function is decreasing with every year. As my muscles get weak and fade, they shrink and get tight. Eventually, I will lose everything and my life."
When Fanady posted on Club Space Rock about her desire to go meteorite hunting, her intent was only to gather information from experienced hunters about possible locations. But a group of fellow forum members, led by Canadian geologist Rogan Hennie, was touched by Marissa's story and wanted to help. Hennie recalls, "Before we knew it, we were asking, 'How can we get this girl, one of our own, out into the field so she can experience what we experience and may even take for granted?'"
Hennie set up a campaign on the crowdfunding platform Indiegogo to raise $5,000, which will cover round-trip flight for Marissa and two nurses to the meteorite hunting location, as well as meals, accommodations, a wheelchair-accessible van rental and miscellaneous expenses.
"Something amazing like this never could have transpired in the pre-internet, pre-crowdfunding world," said Notkin. "I've had the pleasure of meeting Marissa in person, and I could not be happier that our friendly, forward-thinking, international community at Club Space Rock has come together to make her spectacular dream come true. I wish her and her team the best space rock hunting!"
Michael Mulgrew, an experienced meteorite hunter and Club Space Rock member who will serve as expedition guide, has chosen to cover his own travel expenses so that every dollar raised helps Marissa achieve her goal. Other forum members have donated meteorites and equipment from their personal collections as perks for donors. Since the campaign has reached its original $5,000 goal, any additional funds received will be donated to the Muscular Dystrophy Association.
While looking forward to her upcoming meteorite hunting adventure, Faraday says the friendships forged on Club Space Rock have already changed her life.
"I used to think my life was over and that there'd be no point in trying to make a life, when my disease will just take it all away," she said. "But I realize now that we must make the most out of life while we can, to be able to look back and say it was all worth everything. Even though I face many difficult challenges, I can see the sky's the limit with such amazing people by my side lending a helping hand."
To donate to Marissa's Indiegogo fundraiser, visit: https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/marissa-s-meteorite. The campaign will close on August 30, 2014 at 11:59 p.m. PT.
For more information on Club Space Rock, visit: http://meteorites.ning.com
For more information on Aerolite Meteorites, visit: http://www.AeroliteMeteorites.org
Media wishing to speak with Geoff Notkin should contact Becca Gladden at [email protected]
Source: Aerolite Meteorites PR
Contact Information:
Limelight Writing & PR
Becca Gladden
Contact via Email
Read the full story here: http://www.pr.com/press-release/578777
Press Release Distributed by PR.com


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The "Honduras Mobile Market 2020-2024" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.
The mobile market is constantly changing, due to a combination of effects from the development of new technologies, new smartphones and increasing competition with social apps.
At the same time, the regulatory environment continues to evolve to reflect changing realities.
The Honduras Mobile Market report will discuss all these issues affecting Honduras.
Moreover, the Honduras Mobile Market also analyses the Honduran smartphone market and provides forecasts for the most important mobile indicators from 2020 until 2024.
Why this report is unique, and a must-read for the Telecom industry as a whole?
The report is a valuable resource necessary for examining the mobile and smartphone market. It provides an analysis of the key issues in the mobile market while monitoring critical developments based on both primary and secondary sources. It also provides a high-level for various indicators such as forecasts of teledensity, subscribers, the number of smartphones, etc.
The report covers the following key aspects:
- What are the current key developments in the mobile and smartphone markets?
- Coverage of the recent developments, such as M&As activities, changes in market shares, etc.
- Provision of latest telecom related statistics.
- Annual forecast of the number of smartphones
Why should you read this report?
- The statistical section covers the most important mobile indicators.
- A view of the key developments in both the mobile operators and smartphone markets.
Who should buy this report?
- Mobile network operators
- Smartphone manufacturers
- Contractors and infrastructure providers
- Financial institutions
- Industry consultants, researchers, and analysts
- Government bodies
Key Topics Covered:
Section 1: Executive summary
Section 2: Country overview
Section 3: Competitor landscape
Section 4: Regulatory environment
Section 5: Mobile internet
Section 6: The smartphone market
Section 7: Points for actions
Companies Mentioned
- Telefonica (Celtel)/ Tigo Honduras
- America Movil
- Claro
- Hondutel
For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/v5lui7
View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20200305005558/en/
Laura Wood, Senior Press Manager
For E.S.T Office Hours Call 1-917-300-0470
For U.S./CAN Toll Free Call 1-800-526-8630
For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900


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The adoption of Agile software development practices is on the rise as enterprises have begun to see benefits from implementing Agile into their development shops.
However, the questions quickly become how much Agile actually pays off and even how much Agile is enough. The answers here are not so simple, as there is no one-size-fits-all approach to Agile. Essentially, as many practitioners will tell you, it all depends. It depends on the goals of the organization, as well as the size, culture and geography of the organization, among other things.
The Merriam-Webster dictionary definition of agile is "marked by ready ability to move with quick, easy grace" and "having a quick, resourceful and adaptable character." Agility is defined as "the quality or state of being agile."
Meanwhile, Wikipedia describes Agile software development this way: "Agile software development is a group of software development methods based on iterative and incremental development, where requirements and solutions evolve through collaboration between self-organizing, cross-functional teams. It promotes adaptive planning, evolutionary development and delivery, a time-boxed iterative approach, and encourages rapid and flexible response to change. It is a conceptual framework that promotes foreseen interactions throughout the development cycle. The Agile Manifesto introduced the term in 2001."
Further reading
VersionOne, which is known for its Agile project management tools, recently released the results of the seventh annual "State of Agile" survey, which shows Agile adoption on the rise. Sponsored by VersionOne, the survey polled 4,048 developers between August 9, 2012, and November 1, 2012. Ninety percent of respondents said implementing Agile improved their ability to manage changing priorities.
Moreover, more people are also seeing value in terms of project visibility when implementing Agile—84 percent, compared with 77 percent in 2011.
The survey also showed that organizations are continuing to scale Agile beyond single teams and single projects. The 2012 survey saw a 15 percent jump in the number of respondents who work where there are at least five Agile teams, and a 9 percent increase in those working with up to five Agile projects. In addition, overall Agile momentum is up; the number of respondents who said they plan to implement Agile development in future projects increased from 59 percent in 2011 to 83 percent in 2012. Most are using Scrum or Scrum variants (72 percent), as in past years. Kanban and its variants nearly doubled in 2012.


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Bride-to-Be Calls Out Trainer Who Body Shamed Her: "You Are Perpetuating the Problem"
This article originally appeared on People. For more stories like this, visit people.com.
Note for all trainers: don't try to gain clients by body shaming them.
Unfortunately, that's what one man tried to do to Cassie Young, a newly engaged radio host in Atlanta. Young was celebrating her bride-to-be status on social media when a trainer reached out to her on Twitter, offering his services "to get you in shape for your wedding."
VIDEO: What Accessory Gives These Stars Confidence
When Young turned him down, replying that she's "in shape," he was undeterred, and continued to send her body shaming messages.
"I know you want to look your best on your wedding day," he wrote. "If you don't hire me hire someone. Those pictures lasts[sp] centuries."
But Young remained cool, kindly explaining why she's happy with her body.
"I know it's probably hard for you to understand this, but it's taken me a long time to love my body. I'm constantly shamed or reminded that I'm heavy and I should be embarrassed—or people are embarrassed for me—or just straight up rude, calling me 'disgusting.' I've battled past all that and like how I look," she responded.
"I've worked really hard at accepting my self-worth and disassociating the idea that my weight is a direct correlation to my value as a person or how much people will like me. And I found someone who loves me no holds barred—just the way I am, thus proving that true."
The trainer refused to give in, however, continuing to say, "you can't lie to yourself," and explaining that he understands because he used to be heavier. Young responded that he is "perpetuating the problem," of basing your self-worth on your appearance.
Young posted screenshots of their conversation across social media, explaining that she's "posting this because I want every woman and man to know that it does not MATTER what you look like." Her posts now have over 3,000 likes, and Young thanked her followers on Instagram for their support.
"If you are struggling, know we are out there. Not only the outspoken protestors, but also the silent allies. We will stand tall with you and we will win this fight. I promise you," she writes. "EVERY body is beautiful."
This Story Originally Appeared On People


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COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (April 8, 2014) – USA Volleyball has selected 36 athletes to participate in the U.S. Collegiate National Team (CNT) program that will train and compete in conjunction with the USA Volleyball Girls' Junior National Championships from June 22 to July 1 in Minneapolis.
This CNT program includes nine middle blockers, nine outside hitters, six opposites, six setters and six liberos. The outside hitters are Breanna Atkinson (Duke University, Ashburn, Va.), Mary Helen Boyle (LSU, Eureka, Mo.), Cassie House (University of New Mexico, Rio Rancho, N.M.), Litara Keil (Loyola Marymount University, Long Beach, Calif.), Kendall Kritenbrink (University of South Dakota, Gretna, Neb.), Leah McNary (Creighton University, Tarpon Springs, Fla.), Katie Mitchell (Ohio State University, The Woodlands, Texas), McKenzie Willey (Arizona State University, Highland, Utah) and Emily Wilson (University of Missouri, Omaha, Neb.).
Middle blockers selected for the program are Mercedes Binns (Arizona State University, South Pasadena, Calif.), Kelli Browning (Creighton University, Waukesha, Wis.), Emily Miron (North Dakota State University, Wedena, Minn.), Rachel Rhoades (University of Arizona, San Diego, Calif.), Sara Rishell (UAB, Smithsburg, Md.), Hannah Schraer (University of Southern California, Arcadia, Calif.), Paige Tapp (University of Minnesota, Stewartville, Minn.), Dominque Thompson (University of Wisconsin, Plymouth, Minn.) and Mercedes Vaughn (Florida State University, Folcroft, Pa.).
The setters are Jianna Bonomi (University of San Diego, Huntington Beach, Calif.), Katie Brand (Kansas State University, Grand Island, Neb.), Mackenzie Dagostino (University of Florida, Tampa, Fla.), Julia Doyle (University of Oklahoma, Plymouth, Minn.), Aubrey Edie (University of Mississippi, Fayetteville, Ark.) and Sarah Wickstrom (Florida State University, Stuart, Fla.).
Opposites selected to the program are Abby Cole (University of Michigan, Grand Haven, Mich.), Hannah Deede (Western Oregon University, Silverton, Ore.), Jennifer Hamson (BYU, Lindon, Utah), Chelsey Harris (Rice University, Houston), Chantale Riddle (University of New Mexico, Roswell, N.M.) and Elise Ruddins (University of Southern California, Laguna Nigel, Calif.).
The selected liberos are Rachel Brummitt (Texas Tech, Plano, Texas), Veronica Lewis (University of Arizona, San Jose, Calif.), Delaney Clesen (University of Pittsburgh, Evanston, Ill.), Sarah Meister (University of Missouri, San Diego, Calif.), Katie Mosher (Florida State University, Fort Myers, Fla.) and Jacqueline Napper (University of Kentucky, Louisville, Ky.).
This CNT program will be instructed by lead coaches Mike Hebert and Bill Neville, who are both retired college head coaches. Both Hebert and Neville have extensive coaching experience not only at the collegiate level, but also at the international level. Neville has served as head coach for both the men's and women's U.S. National Teams as well as assistant on the U.S. Men's National Team. Hebert has contributed to the U.S. Women's National Team as an assistant coach.
Nicki Holmes, assistant women's volleyball coach at UCF, will serve as the program manager. Other program coaches are: Ashley Allen (assistant women's coach at Nicholls State University), Ray Gooden (head women's coach at Northern Illinois University), Linda Hampton-Keith (assistant women's coach at Arizona State University), Ben Lee (Arizona Storm Volleyball Club), Marci Sanders (head women's coach at University of Texas-Dallas) and Jay Van Vark (assistant women's coach at Cal State University-San Marcos).
For the third consecutive year, USA Volleyball will have its U.S. Collegiate National Team program (formerly known as U.S. Women's National A2 Team) represented at the USAV Girls' Junior National Championships.
"USA Volleyball is again looking forward to assembling this great crop of athletes for the College National Team program in Minneapolis," USA Volleyball Senior Director Tom Pingel said. "It's always beneficial to the program to get this group in the gym during the summer, as well as get them in front of everyone at the GJNC."
After the training portion of the program, the 36 athletes will be divided into three equal teams which will compete in a round-robin event June 27-30. The round-robin event may add an international team to increase the field to four teams that would complete June 26-30. This program is considered a second tryout for the U.S. Women's National Team.
Last month U.S. Collegiate National Team rosters were announced for the China Tour program (click here) and the European Tour program (click here). A total of 60 athletes have been selected to compete as part of the U.S. Collegiate National Team program.
Athlete selections for all three U.S. Collegiate National Team programs are being determined based on evaluations from the U.S. Women's National Team open tryouts held Feb. 21-23 in Colorado Springs, Colo., or based on past performances within the CNT program.
U.S. Collegiate National Team – USAV Girls' Junior National Championships
Athlete (Position, College, Hometown, College Years Remaining)
Breanna Atkinson (OH, Duke University, Ashburn, Va., 2)
Mercedes Binns (MB, Arizona State University, South Pasadena, Calif., 2)
Jianna Bonomi (S, University of San Diego, Huntington Beach, Calif., 1)
Mary Helen Boyle (OH, LSU, Eureka, Mo., 1)
Katie Brand (S, Kansas State University, Grand Island, Neb., 3)
Kelli Browning (MB, Creighton University, Waukesha, Wis., 1)
Rachel Brummitt (L, Texas Tech, Plano, Texas, 1)
Delaney Clesen (L, University of Pittsburgh, Evanston, Ill., 1)
Abby Cole (Opp, University of Michigan, Grand Haven, Mich., 3)
Mackenzie Dagostino (S, University of Florida, Tampa, Fla., 2)
Hannah Deede (Opp, Western Oregon University, Silverton, Ore., 1)
Julia Doyle (S, University of Oklahoma, Plymouth, Minn., 2)
Aubrey Edie (S, University of Mississippi, Fayetteville, Ark., 3)
Jennifer Hamson (Opp, BYU, Lindon, Utah, 1)
Chelsey Harris (Opp, Rice University, Houston, Texas, 3)
Cassie House (OH, University of New Mexico, Rio Rancho, N.M., 3)
Litara Keil (OH, Loyola Marymount University, Long Beach, Calif., 1)
Kendall Kritenbrink (OH, University of South Dakota, Gretna, Neb., 1)
Veronica Lewis (L, University of Arizona, San Jose, Calif., 1)
Leah McNary (OH, Creighton University, Tarpon Springs, Fla., 1)
Sarah Meister (L, University of Missouri, San Diego, Calif., 1)
Emily Miron (MB, North Dakota State University, Wedena, Minn., 3)
Katie Mitchell (OH, Ohio State University, The Woodlands, Texas, 2)
Katie Mosher (L, Florida State University, Fort Myers, Fla., 1)
Jacqueline Napper (L, University of Kentucky, Louisville, Ky., 1)
Rachel Rhoades (MB, University of Arizona, San Diego, Calif., 1)
Chantale Riddle (Opp, University of New Mexico, Roswell, N.M., 1)
Sara Rishell (MB, UAB, Smithsburg, Md., 1)
Elise Ruddins (Opp, University of Southern California, Laguna Nigel, Calif., 3)
Hannah Schraer (MB, University of Southern California, Arcadia, Calif., 1)
Paige Tapp (MB, University of Minnesota, Stewartville, Minn., 3)
Dominique Thompson (MB, University of Wisconsin, Plymouth, Minn., 1)
Mercedes Vaughn (MB, Florida State University, Folcroft, Pa., 2)
Sarah Wickstrom (S, Florida State University, Stuart, Fla., 1)
McKenzie Willey (OH, Arizona State University, Highland, Utah, 3)
Emily Wilson (OH, University of Missouri, Omaha, Neb., 1)
Lead Coaches: Mike Hebert and Bill Neville
Program Manager: Nicki Holmes (UCF women's assistant coach)
Coaches: Ashley Allen (assistant coach at Nicholls State), Ray Gooden (head coach at Northern Illinois), Linda Hampton-Keith (assistant coach at Arizona State), Ben Lee (Arizona Storm Volleyball Club), Marci Sanders (head coach at Texas-Dallas), Jay Van Vark (assistant coach at Cal State-San Marcos)


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Fire Fighter Supplies
Do your firefighters have the equipment to fight fires? At NAFFCO, we supply the finestrange of fire fighter supplies across Dubai and the MENA region. Don't rely on usedfirefighter gear as we will provide new equipment that complies withinternational requirements. If your supplystore is lacking, we will ensure itis filled with the latest supplies.
Types of fire fightingequipment
At NAFFCO,we are the leading supplier of equipment for firefighters. Our firefightertools and equipment will help your fire fighting department combat fireseffectively. So whether you are searching for firefighter gear for sale or somethingmore specific like a firefighter backpack or fire hose nozzle types, chooseNAFFCO today.
We will equipyour fire fighters with the following firefighter supplies:
Fire helmets and hoods
We providefire helmets and hoods in a range of styles that will offer your fire fightersa high level of protection. All of our fire helmets and hoods are constructedto international standards.
Fire suits
Our firefighter suits are renowned for their durability andeffectiveness. We use UL listed fabricwhich is built to NFPA 2112 in some of our fire suits. Firefighters will find that ourcomfortable fire suits will give them the protection they need. All suits comewith fire department jackets and trousers for complete protection.
Whether youchoose the Aquila Fire 1 fire suit or one of our various fire suits, our firesuits are constructed to international standards for the utmostprotection. In extreme temperatures, weprovide fire suits that are have been designed for fighting close-range firessuch as our Aluminized fire suits.
Fire fighting gloves
NAFFCOsupplies a selection of firefighting gloves that are constructed from durablematerials and will provide protection for your hands. We also supplyfirefighter extrication gloves that are reinforced and resistant to heat.
Fire boots
Wemanufacture and supply firefighting leather and rubber boots that arecertified to international standards. The '9005/GA-C' is the most popular of ourfire boots as it is suitable for many climates and activities. It is alsowaterproof and has been certified to EN 15090:2012 F2A HI3 CI AN - SRCCategory III P.P.E standards.
Other supplies for fire fighters
In addition to the above supplies, we will provide your firefighting organisation with a range of equipment such as firefighting hand tools.Our company provide:
- Flashlights
- Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA)
- Thermalimagers and rescue systems
- Turnoutgear back and more
- Turnoutgear rack
Why choose NAFFCO
NAFFCO isthe largest manufacturer and supplier of firefighting supplies in Dubai andthe Middle East. Our company has received the following accreditations: ISO9001 Quality Standard, Occupational Health & Safety Standard OHSAS 18001and Environmental Management System ISO 14001 to name a few.
With yearsof experience in the firefighting industry, we will tailor our firefighterequipment list to suit your requirements. All firefighting supplies providedby NAFFCO will exceed your expectations as we only supply high-qualityequipment in line with international standards.
At NAFFCO,we provide a detailed after-sales program as we believe that our service doesnot stop when we have provided you with something from our firefightersupplies. So whether you require a product demonstration or have questionsabout our products, our team is available 24/7 to answer your queries.
Contact NAFFCO
Combat fires with our firefighter supplies andcontact NAFFCO today for moreinformation.


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The Process for Getting Dentures Centerville, UT
People may find it difficult to hear that they need dentures. After all, losing a few teeth can cause enough difficulty. The very notion that one is going to need artificial teeth instead can be difficult to adjust to. Fortunately, we have the tools and expertise to help patients adjust to dentures in order to live a comfortable lifestyle. In fact, dentures can provide a natural appearance and remain fully functional.
People may find it difficult to hear that they need dentures. After all, losing a few teeth can cause enough difficulty. The very notion that one is going to need artificial teeth instead can be difficult to adjust to. Fortunately, we have the tools and expertise to help patients adjust to dentures in order to live a comfortable lifestyle. In fact, dentures can provide a natural appearance and remain fully functional.
The type of issues an endodontist treats
Resorption and tooth loss
Following the loss of one's teeth, resorption will begin to take effect. Adult teeth stimulate the jawbone, sending signals throughout the body. Once teeth fall out and stop stimulating the jawbone, the body will absorb the calcium in the jawbone to distribute to other areas of the body. Due to this, many people will experience a change in facial structure after losing some or all of their teeth.
This is a main reason for why we recommend partial or full dentures to replace missing teeth. People who do not replace teeth will notice sagging or an indent in their cheek due to the jawbone weakening. While there are a variety of aesthetic changes, people will also find physical issues with missing teeth, including:
- Difficulty eating and speaking
- Sensitive areas of the mouth where the tooth used to be
- Risk of gum disease
- Need for more frequent visits to the dentist
Contrary to popular belief, people who try to live with a missing tooth or teeth will still risk contracting oral infections such as gum disease. Normally, plaque will catch between the teeth and spread infection if left untreated. Without teeth, people are still at a risk for acquiring an infection. The best option for many patients is to seek customized dentures from a professional.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: The Process for Getting Dentures Centerville
The Dentures Process
To begin the dentures process, we will need to examine the patient and determine the best choice from full dentures, partial dentures, or another option. In some cases, if the remaining teeth are infected or weak, we will recommend a tooth extraction first. By removing the remaining teeth, we can then provide a set of fully-functional artificial teeth by installing dentures.
Once we determine the best course of action, we will clean the teeth and remove any, if necessary. We will then make a mold and take measurements of the mouth. We will use this mold to develop the dentures and ensure they are a custom fit to the individual patient. This way, patients will not have to spend as much time worrying about the dentures falling out or being uncomfortable.
It is important to note that there will be an adjustment period for the patient when first wearing the dentures. Following the appointment, the patients may need to wear temporary dentures until the new ones are complete. However, this step in the process can vary per each situation. We will send the mold and measurements to a dental lab that will create the custom dentures.
After we complete the dentures, we will have the patient come in for a fitting. During the fitting process, we will make sure that the dentures fit properly and make any necessary changes. We will also go over proper care for the dentures and recommend the time for the next appointment to keep an eye on the dentures. There are a few things that patients need to know about the adjustment period.
It will take around two weeks to completely adjust to the dentures and using them. The first step will be to avoid eating hard or chewy foods such as nuts and caramel. Proper oral hygiene will involve removing the dentures at night and leaving them in a special solution overnight. The patient will still need to brush the gums and ensure that there are no bits of food in the dentures.
During the first few weeks, there may be some minor irritation and discomfort. However, the discomfort will subside after the adjustment period. The patient may need more adjustments in the months ahead, which we will be happy to schedule when necessary.
If you live in the Centerville area, call (385) 249-5187 to schedule your dental exam so that you can remain in good health or receive treatment for a current condition.
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. What happens after losing an adult tooth?
Q. How does the dentures process begin?
Q. How long will it take me to adjust to the dentures?
People Also Ask
Q. Are there different types of dentures?
Q. How long will it take to adjust to new dentures?
Definition of Denture Terminology
- Alveolar Bone
- The alveolar bone is the bone surrounding the root of the tooth that keeps the tooth in place.
- Clasp
- A clasp is a device that holds a removable partial denture prosthesis to the teeth.
- Denture Base
- The denture base is the part of the denture that connects the artificial teeth with the soft tissue of the gums.
- Edentulous
- Edentulous is a term that applies to people who do not have any teeth.
- Periodontal Disease
- Periodontal disease is a condition that causes inflammation of the gingival tissues and membrane of the teeth, leading to tooth loss without professional treatment.
- Pontic
- Pontic is another term for an artificial tooth on a fixed partial denture.
- Rebase
- Rebase is the process of refitting denture prosthesis by replacing the base material.
- Reline
- Reline is when a professional resurfaces the surface of the prosthesis with a new base material.
- Resin/Acrylic
- Resin and Acrylic are resinous materials that can be components in a denture base.
- Stomatitis
- Stomatitis is the inflammation of the tissue that is underlying a denture that does not fit properly. It can also result from other oral health factors.
Back to top of The Process for Getting Dentures
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Let's focus on the classroom procedures that we need to teach our students each and every year. Clearly, this is one of those situations where a stitch in time saves nine…so let's get sewing: Like the Boy Scouts – Be Prepared Try to anticipate every situation that will come up regularly or semi-regularly in your classroom. Imagine a typical day and write down every procedure/routine
Archives for July 2014
Writing in Math Class?
Minds in Bloom is happy to present this guest post by Kim of Teaching Math by Hart. We just know you're going to love this post on journaling in math class! When I first introduce journaling to my students in my class, I generally hear comments like, "Aren't we in Math class right now?" followed by, "Isn't journaling for Language Arts class?" Who would
Using Exit Tickets
Minds in Bloom is so happy to welcome Cassie from Create-Abilities! This post is a little gold mine of ideas on how to use exit slips…and tons of examples too! I need to tell you about one of my obsessions: exit tickets! I love them! They are the quickest and most effective way I have found to assess your students' understanding of core concepts. I have tried various ways
"It's Rigor, Not Rigor Mortis" A Short Reflection from Notice and Note
Artwork credits: Edusong, Dancing Crayon Designs, KG Fonts The title of this post (It's Rigor, Not Rigor Mortis) comes from a subheading in the book, Notice and Note: Strategies for Close Reading by Kylene Beers and Robert E. Probst. I love this subheading because it speaks to what so many fear will be the outcome of close reading: the death of the love of reading in our students. And
TpT Sellers Conference: Best Day Ever!
Those of you who follow Minds in Bloom know that I rarely write about topics that are not directly related to, and useful for teachers. But I am making an exception today because the last few days have been so amazing and profound in my life and because I thought those of you who use Teachers Pay Teachers might enjoy a look behind the scenes.Last
Using Magic Square Puzzles in the Classroom
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Follow the Character Road
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Brain Breaks are fun, of course, but I take them very seriously (in a good way!). Research has shown that kids need to move in order to keep focusing and learning. However, in my opinion moving should not be the only goal. While doing a few jumping Jacks or stretches may accomplish the goal of movement, it doesn't do a whole lot else. A Brain


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Reina helped make these videos
We are still working to obtain content for your car, however the video above is believed to have similar characteristics as your car.
The video above shows to how to fix minor coolant (anti freeze) leaks in your 2013 Mercedes-Benz C300. Before attempting to fix the coolant components on your C300, please check out our What is Leaking? to determine what type of fluid is leaking from your car. Engine coolant (which is also called anti-freeze or antifreeze) circulates through your C300's engine and keeps it from overheating. In 2013 C300s with the 3.5 liter engine, coolant leaks are most likely to occur where the hoses connect to the engine, but it can also leak from the reservoir or from the hoses. When fixing antifreeze leaks, it is important to check the condition of the hoses - they wear out over time and small cracks are only going to get bigger. The video above shows you where the coolant reservoir, hoses and connections on your 2013 C300 4Matic Sport are located and the steps needed to fix minor coolant leaks.
Coolant is highly toxic, so be sure to wear safety glasses and gloves and always clean up spills promptly as animals are attracted to the sweet taste of coolant. If you ignore a leaking coolant long enough, you will run out of coolant, which leads to overheated engines and other serious, but highly avoidable, problems. In many 2013 C300s, a coolant leak can be a precursor to a hose bursting or flying off, which severely limits how far you can drive before your engine overheats.
If your brake fluid is a little low, learn how to add some here. Ignoring a low level leads to big problems2013 Mercedes-Benz C300 4Matic Sport 3.5L V6
If you are leaking oil and parking on your oil spots each night, the oil is breaking down your tires' rubber2013 Mercedes-Benz C300 4Matic Sport 3.5L V6
If your blinker doesn't blink, or blinks rapidly, you likely have a burnt out bulb2013 Mercedes-Benz C300 4Matic Sport 3.5L V6
A few key tips will make jacking up your car much safer2013 Mercedes-Benz C300 4Matic Sport 3.5L V6
A/C blowing hot air?2013 Mercedes-Benz C300 4Matic Sport 3.5L V6


text: Beccah Posted September 9, 2016 An unusual combo that smells delightful! Blood orange and violet blossoms, folded into creamy marshmallow fluff with a smidge of dark amber in the base. There's one issue with this one though - it refuses to blend and must be shaken. It's the combo of citrus and marshmallow that does it, I tried it with 2 different marshmallow sources and it did the same thing. Making it a spray would solve that issue if you mind it, but try not to mind it because it smells wonderful! Share this post Link to post Share on other sites


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Arlington, Virginia – Jan 30, 2019 – THE A BRIDAL SHOW is a unique boutique wedding event in Northern Virginia and metro DC. This event is organized annually by The A Pulse and it's exclusively for professional wedding vendors looking to market their products or services to engaged couples seeking a dream wedding.
The A announced the launch of their annual bridal show in 2016 and have witnessed tremendous success over the years. Engaged couples seeking a classy and unique style wedding have found the The A Bridal Show very resourceful as it provides the opportunity to network with carefully selected professional wedding vendors in the DMV area. These professionals are Wedding Cake Designers, Wedding Entertainers, Florists, Wedding Photographers, Wedding DJs in Northern Virginia and Metro DC, Makeup Artists, Wedding Updo Hair Stylists, Wedding Planners, Cosmetic Dentists, and Caterers amongst others.
$15,000 in coupons, prizes and giveaways and a free honeymoon vacation for one lucky couple will be awarded at the 2019 edition of THE A BRIDAL SHOW on the 24th of February scheduled to run from 1 pm to 4 pm at The Virginian Suites located at 1500 Arlington Boulevard in Arlington, Virginia and promises new exciting activities for engaged couples looking forward to meeting the best wedding vendors in the DMV, tickets can be purchased at https://theabridalshow.com/attend.
Professional wedding Vendors can also exhibit their products and services at THE A BRIDAL SHOW by registering at https://theabridalshow.com/exhibit-with-us, where they will have the opportunity to meet face-2-face with engaged couples who are ready for their products and services.
"We met brides for this year and next year. We set a goal to book two appointments from the show and ended up setting up five so that was really good," says Julie Bargeski from Video Express Production.
THE A BRIDAL SHOW is an intimate experiential bridal showcase and it's expected to provide more and more couples the opportunity to have the wedding they could only dream of. It also provides wedding vendors the opportunity to fill their wedding calendars.
Wedding Vendors who can't make it to the show can still meet brides by advertising in The A Bridal Magazine. The A Bridal Magazine offers audience to more than 3,000 local readers covering DMV and its surrounding areas. Digital copies will also be available on its official website. More details on how to be a partner or advertiser in The A Bridal Magazine can be found at https://theabridalshow.com/bridal-magazine.
About The A Pulse
HONESTY. RELIABILITY. EXPERIENCE. Founded on these principles, The A Pulse has helped small businesses in the Washington DC Metropolitan area, especially those in the event and hospitality industry in finding desired clientele, and helped the clienteles find the right vendors for their event via it's crafted, connected ecosystems that grow businesses and build enduring relationships between brands, brides and grooms, and event hosts. Businesses such as Florists, Cake Artists, Chiropractors, Realtors, Financial Advisors, Wedding Photographers, Event Venues, Cosmetic Centers, gain visibility and exposure through Print and Digital Bridal Magazines, Online Marketplace and Trade shows by tapping into The A's platforms.
Media Contact
Company Name: The A Pulse
Contact Person: Abla Doku
Email: Send Email
Phone: 703.303.1781
Address:P.O.Box 351
City: McLean
State: VA 22101
Country: United States
Website: http://theabridalshow.com/attend


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9 Nasty Things You Eat Every Day (But Don't Know It)
You've probably heard about "pink slime," the nutritionally questionable, ground beef filler treated with ammonia that has graced school cafeteria and fast food menus for decades. Well, if you thought that was bad, you haven't seen anything yet.
Here are nine more gross ingredients that might be in your next bite of food…
Page 1 of 10


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The Kid from Broken Gun (1952) was the last Durango Kid movie and marked Charles Starrett's final appearance on the silver screen. I wish I could tell you it was a classic, but that would be a lie. Like most of the movies in the Durango Kid series, it relies a lot more on action than on any semblance of logic in the plot.
It's partially a courtroom drama, too. Jack Mahoney, playing a character named Jack Mahoney, is framed for murder. At his trial, the story unfolds in numerous flashbacks, and it makes very little sense if you stop to think about it. Not that the audience would have cared, since the film seems aimed at six-year-olds. You'd have to be about that age to enjoy the alleged comic relief provided by Smiley Burnette. Smiley gets the song in the picture, too. Earlier films in the series had legitimate singers doing the tunes, but by 1952 budgets must have shrunk considerably.
The film looks good, and the fights and stunts are fun. There's a lot of early parkour-type stuff, with, I guess Mahoney doubling for Starrett. The cast is good, too. Tristram Coffin is the baddie, and Mahoney is fine as the wrongly accused man. I was glad to catch this on TCM at the recommendation of John Hall.
Sunday, December 21, 2008
The Kid from Broken Gun
1 comment:
- Glen Davis said...
I watched this myself.
Most of the flashbacks are from an earlier film, to save money, a common device in later DK movies.
It really seemed like they were grooming Mahoney to take over for Charles Starret, who was over 50 at the end of the series (pretty old for a kid), but TV came along and ended the whole B western industry.
Then the greatest stuntman of his time ended up in "adult" westerns like Showdown in Abilene where he hardly did any stunts. A shame.
His TV work in Range Rider and Yancey Derringer is more exciting.
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President Barack Obama declared a major disaster on Tuesday for the communities hit by the Valley Fire in California that has destroyed at least 1,200 homes and killed at least three people.
The declaration issued Tuesday for the fire that broke out in Lake County 90 miles north of San Francisco releases federal money for recovery and cleanup for the hundreds of families whose homes who lost their homes.
Residents can apply for grants for home repairs and temporary housing as well as apply for low-cost loans for uninsured property.
U.S. & World
News from around the country and around the globe
The devastating wildfire that started Sept. 12 ranks among California's most destructive and stands at 80 percent contained with 118 square miles scorched. Thousands of people fled their homes at the peak of the fire, and two men remain missing, according to the Lake County Sheriff's Office on Tuesday.
Authorities are searching for Robert Litchman, 61, of Middletown and Robert Fletcher, 66, of Cobb.
Sheriff Brian Martin said at a news conference Tuesday that his office had received reports of 15 people missing since the fire started. All have been accounted for except the two men. "We are hopeful these people are located and returned and reunited with their loved ones,'' he said.
66y/o Bob Fletcher hasn't been seen since morning fire started. He was at his Cobb Mt home. Family fears the worst. pic.twitter.com/Q5PYAwFien — Jodi Hernandez (@JodiHernandezTV) September 22, 2015
His office has had reports of 15 missing people since the fire began.
Middletown residents are still returning to what's left of their houses and belongings. Emergency crews have set up places to shower and services for people that lost everything need to get by.
In the nearby community of Cobb Mountain, crews still have a lot to do to make the area safe for residents to return. It's one of the last places still closed off to the public.
The fire has claimed the lives of three people. The body of 72-year-old Barbara McWilliams, who used a walker, was found in her burned-down home. The others who died in the Lake County fire are 69-year-old former newspaper reporter Leonard Neft and 65-year-old Bruce Beven Burns.
California Gov. Jerry Brown requested disaster declarations for the fire in Lake County as well as another destructive wildfire in Calaveras and Amador counties, about 125 miles east of San Francisco. Federal officials are still working on the request for the other fire, said Kelly Huston, deputy director for the governor's Office of Emergency Services.


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The Best Anti-Aging Exercises
The basics
To keep you feeling good on the inside, lose those extra kilos and do a minimum of 30 minutes of cardiovascular exercise every day to ensure your organs are healthy. Good cardio workouts include stair climbing, walking up hills, bike riding and swimming. When you feel fit and ready, increase the amount of time you exercise and the intensity.
Complete this picture with resistance exercise to ensure you look as good on the outside as you feel. Resistance-based exercise keeps muscles strong and toned, because the last thing any woman wants is sagging body parts.
And most importantly, drink lots of water, at least eight glasses a day.
Facial exercises
Some women swear by facial exercises to prevent wrinkles, crows feet and other signs of ageing, as well as enhance glowing skin. Exercising the facial muscles allows the skin to get the oxygen it needs to keep it healthy and deliver other nutrients to the skin cells. Try laughing, frowning, smiling, raising your eyebrows, moving your jaw up, down and sideways.
It is easy to overlook caring for your neck, even though it is an area prone to wrinkling. While a woman's face can look young, her real age can be obvious when looking at her neck. Neck exercises, such as chin tucks and stretches, can minimise neck wrinkling and help women look younger.
Legs and butt to die for
Part of looking and feeling young is having great legs and a firm bum! All women can have wonderful legs and bottom using the following exercises:
• Step-ups, using stairs, a park bench or an exercise stepper, tone everywhere and offer a great cardio workout because they work all leg and gluteal (bottom) muscles at the same time
• Lunges work the same muscles. Perform walking or stationary lunges and swap legs to ensure both get a good work out
• Add ankle weights to your legs to tone them faster and perform and use for thigh exercises (lying on your side and raising one leg up)
• Squats push the full weight of your body through your legs and buttocks.
Michelle Obama arms
Triceps (in the upper arm) are often forgotten because women can be preoccupied with toning their tummies and bottoms, so here are some exercises to tone those arms:
• Tricep dips, tricep kick backs, overhead tricep extensions and shoulder presses are effective isolation exercises
• Wide-grip push ups work pectoral muscles (hidden under the breasts) and triceps if you move your hands closer together.
What are your favourite exercises to keep the years off?


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Rosenberg, TX (April 22, 2016) – OCuSOFT Inc., a privately-held eye and skin care company with an established reputation for innovation in eyelid hygiene and ocular health was pleased to launch a new speakers series program at International Vision Expo East in New York, NY focusing on building a Dry Eye practice featuring guest speaker Doug Devries, O.D.
The new educational series showcasing a variety of outstanding professional speakers including Doug Devries, O.D., Al Kabat, O.D. and Paul Karpecki, O.D. will be hosted in numerous locations across the United States. "How to Build a Dry Eye Practice: Incorporating Eyelid Hygiene" focuses on increasing practice revenue, patient compliance and overall patient health. This is accomplished through the incorporation of specialty products into the optometric practice. Also included would be in-office procedures and take-home maintenance routines for patients. A focal point of the discussion was new OCuSOFT® Lid Scrub® PLUS Platinum with PSG-2™ and OCuSOFT® HypoChlor™ Hypochlorous acid while respectively both ridding the eyelids of bacteria and conditioning delicate periocular tissues. The dinner event at 100 Alfredo was completely full and highlighted the experiences of Dr. Devries while developing and growing his Dry Eye practice and how encompassing new practices and new products into his existing routine positively impacted not only his practice revenue, but also the long term benefit to his patients.
"Each Speaker Series event provides opportunities for members of the optometric community to share outlooks and views with outstanding communicators," said Troy Smith, Vice President Professional and Technical Relations at OCuSOFT®. "We look forward to continuing our goal of improving each patient's health by bringing together professionals to discuss the most recent developments in Dry Eye care and practice building and by always providing the highest quality products for not only eye care, but also skin care".
Look for future Speaker Series events hosted by OCuSOFT® at all major tradeshows and in select markets. For more information, visit www.ocusoft.com or call OCuSOFT directly at (800) 233-5469.
About Doug Devries, OD
Dr. Devriesis board certified in the treatment and management of ocular disease by the Nevada State Board of Optometry. He has served as president of the Nevada State Optometric Association and the Northern Nevada Optometric Society. In 1997, He was recognized as the Nevada Optometrist of the year. Dr. Devries provides lectures for continuing education on a variety of ophthalmic topics and is an Associate Clinical Professor at Pacific University College of Optometry. As co-founder of Advanced Vision & Laser Center, his practice is limited to medical/surgical optometry.
About OCuSOFT Inc.
OCuSOFT, Inc. is a privately-held Richmond, TX USA-based ophthalmic research, development and supply company with an established reputation for innovation, particularly in the area of Ocular Surface Disease (OSD). Since 1986, OCuSOFT® served the ophthalmic industry with a unique selection of proprietary brands. A pioneer in ophthalmology, OCuSOFT® introduced the first eyelid cleanser, the first topical anesthetic gel, the first "leave-on" antibacterial eyelid cleaner, the first supplement to enhance botulinum toxin injections and the first fourth generation preservative-free ophthalmic emulsion eye drop. Today, the company is most recognized for its #1 Doctor Recommended Brand of Eyelid Cleansers, OCuSOFT® Lid Scrub®, in addition to its standing as the preferred distributor of ophthalmic products and supplies by eye care professionals. For more information, please call 800-233-5469 or visit www.ocusoft.com.
Contact: Courtney Ahrens, Director of Marketing
Phone: 800-233-5469
Email: firstname.lastname@example.com


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It is important to take stock of your life from time to time. When surrounded by ignorant and asinine people and situations, it is as though you won't ever wriggle out from under them. As they say, "if you walk with a cripple, you start to limp". What is fundamental is the ability to recognize the truly puerile and expose it for what it is. A spark of genius is then called for.
I want to take stock of the exceptional parents I had and the experiences and education they afforded me. It's rare in today's world. Our educational system is not what it was. Gifted and talented meant you really were gifted and talented. Today, everyone is gifted and talented. I beg to differ…
Sometime after 1977, during the infamous and heavily ridiculed "Carter" years, amongst a host of inept social programs and a massive deficit, our educational "tracking" system was eradicated. The kids that were slower to learn or in classes modified to meet their needs, were suddenly in classes with the "accelerated" group. I was one of those "accelerated" kids and it changed the face of American education forever and it also changed the direction I would take. Suddenly everyone was "regular". Believe it or not, they actually instituted that label to differentiate from "accelerated" or "modified", the latter meaning unusually slow to learn. Bless those liberals.
The kids destined for "vo-tech" and took "shop" class, in other words, the not-ready-for-prime-time-players, were now in my Algebra and English Lit class. While raising my own children and putting them through the public school system, it was common practice to lump all the students together and create a simpler curriculum that everyone could grasp. (Against my better judgement, I adhered to my then husband's Canadian wishes and kept them in public school). It was brutal to watch. Smart kids sleeping, bored out of their wits while the poor little dumb kids were catered too. One of my son's teacher's took offense one afternoon and sent him home with a note that read,"Your son feels the need to "shine" constantly and it is not fair to the other students". He was in the third grade at the time and had corrected her that on that particular year, Pluto was not furthest from the sun because every 12 years Neptune trades places. Vexed she was as I recall. (Readers, please don't take offense here if I am hitting a nerve, I am not judging the less scholastically inclined nor the mentally acute, I am merely making a statement of fact.) Fortunately for my son, by high school he had one teacher that applauded his brilliance and had him teach the sophomore astronomy class the entire year. She was unable to explain dark matter, black holes, "spaghettification" or the time space continuum to 16 year old's. And apparently, he could.
Liberal minded governing entities decided it wasn't fair that some kids were labeled "smart" and others were not. Ask yourself this: How many people do you know with a college degree that got into college when they probably never should have graduated high school? Or take a look at a local newspaper, a sales ad, a real estate slogan or what some people refer to as art or music. Have you noticed the plethora of idiotic ramblings purported by so called specialists in their fields? College graduates now speak and write in juvenile mumbo jumbo as if it were grammatically correct and are no closer to realizing that,"wuz", "cuz","wanna" or "i be" are actual words than my cat realizes his own sentience. Even while perusing job ads one finds typos, text message style abbreviations and absurd remarks. It's disheartening to say the least.
We used to have structure in school. Our curriculum's made us think and work. I studied ballet my entire life and played violin at the age of 4. We had mandatory language classes starting in the first grade. We had to WRITE our papers longhand. Which meant we needed to spell correctly and understand diction, phonetics, syntax etc., and not rely on spell check; which never works anyway because it cannot recognize the difference between "there", "their" or "they're" for instance. It is astonishing the drivel one runs into today. I refuse to watch any television for this reason, especially local or national news. I am fully aware that if you allow yourself to be duped and manipulated by the propaganda regurgitated by the corporate media whores, whose main interest is consumerism and not the welfare of the nation, you will mindlessly plod through life with the rest of the herd idling towards the slaughter-house sitting in an easy chair while watching Jackass or Jersey Shore. We should all be terrified of where the future of the American intellect and ingenuity is heading.
I suspect there is at least one social program afoot, (please note the inherent sarcasm) to blame in the dumbing down of our nation's educational system. Having been raised by a Yale PhD, Columbia U professor and NSA/CIA father, I received an exemplary education. An education is not exclusive to being able to graduate from college and walk away with a piece of paper. A good education begins in the home and is cultivated by capable parents and a well rounded experience.
For a good idea of American intellect, ingenuity and strength, Alexis De Toqueville's, Democracy in America outlines this superbly well and is one of, if not the best read and should be required in middle school along with classes in civics so our populace has a grasp on who is really in charge here. The Washington pundits have all read it. It's required reading for anyone studying political science or law and somehow, they have tossed the book on the back of the shelf as if it were some sort of nasty little secret. Toqueville even prophecies on what will happen when capitalism and democracy fall into the hands of the ill-equipped, illiterate and greedy. Smart populace=Strong nation people.
Did you read my post about the Social Disaster? How on earth can a person claim to be a specialist in the field of social work or in helping battered or abused women in a shelter, when they have never had children, been married or divorced, survived a battery or rape or have any practical social skills to bring to the table other than a piece of paper and a measly year in Africa at the governments expense? You're kidding right?
Take the music industry today. Everyone thinks they can be a rockstar or get a signed record deal. All they have to do is either get the funding, (many times through illegal activities as in some Rap artists) or know someone, as in the nepotism running rampant in the music and film industry. Talent is no longer necessary nor is paying your dues. Everyone gets a free pass, makes a million overnight and gets their asses all over the television. Re: The Kardashian dolts.
Though, I must ponder. I'm a humanist, an animal and environment lover, with a brain and an extremely versatile education and background. Where are we going with all of this degradation? What do we have to look forward to 10, 15 or 20 years from now? A welfare, "socialist" state saturated with the socially and scholastically inept? Where is the spark of genius that America is known for? Our strength lies in our populace. Our populace is getting weaker by the second as millions gorge themselves on national news, the disasters and the mayhem, the fear and loathing and political scandals all designed to keep our eye not on the ball. Why are we taking political sides as if one is any better than the other or care about what Lady Gaga or Charlie Sheen are up to? Who really gives a crap?
Has not one person noticed that a bi-cameral system doesn't work with over 300 million citizens and that Lady Gaga, (who actually is quite a talented pianist, go figure) and Charlie Sheen pay their publicists to start fires to increase their notoriety? Are the American people this inane? What happened to taking pride in our hard work and ethics? We were founded on that principle and farmers with pitchforks and 12 year old boys with muskets proved it to an entire armada of British soldiers.
Please America, wake up from this nightmare. Please bring back the genius, the spark and the reason that the entire world envies us and leans on us for leadership.
For those who do not possess this spark of genius, please refer to our neighbors to the north for assistance and asylum. They love to feed and house drug addicts, tax over 60% to your income, permit known terrorists entry and club baby seals. They certainly do send a mixed message to all those tree hugging liberals don't they? Sure, they're a pacified bunch I guess when it comes to having a military industrial complex, but then why do they do hang onto our skirts, pockets, purses, technology and charm? And then have the audacity to snub their noses?
If something doesn't happen soon, I am going to find a third world nation rife for a takeover, where its absentia inhabitants are here, getting American financial aid, starting businesses and getting college grants and start my own social reforms and government.
Screw it. 😦


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It has been our practice at the Crawford School to highlight on the website etc. all journal articles that ranked as A or A* (the top 20% of journals) in the ARC's ERA journal ranking list. Unfortunately, the ARC abolished this ranking. We seem to be one of the few groups that were unhappy with that. Most Australian researchers seemed overjoyed.
So we had to look for a replacement listing. One option was Elsevier's SNIP which
I blogged about in May. SNIP is designed to take into account the varying citation practices in different fields. This is very important in an interdisciplinary school like Crawford. If we adopt a common metric like impact factor or article influence score then our colleagues in smaller and book-oriented fields will be disadvantaged relative to those in large journal-oriented fields like economics.
But we found that at least in the case of area studies, rather than ameliorating the problem, SNIP exacerbates it. Using an article influence score of 1 and above, I identified 78 economics journals out of a total of 305 in the Journal Citations Report and only 3 in area studies out of a total of 60 in the JCR. Using a SNIP of 2 or more, I identified 86 economics journals but only one * of the top 15 area studies journals from the JCR had a SNIP of 2 or more. So SNIP was 3 times as discriminatory against area studies than Article Influence Score.
So, reluctantly, we have decided to continue using the ERA journal ranking list for the next year using judgement to decide whether new journals qualify as leading journals. We could use the top 25% of journals in each field in the JCR as an alternative but decided that that would be less transparent. Energy Economics would not be included in the top 25% because it is outside the top 25% in economics but Ecological Economics would be included because it is in the top 25% in environmental studies, though outside the top 25% in economics. This would end up confusing people. Maybe we'll try it in 2013, unless SNIP improves in the meantime.
* This journal - African Affairs - was ranked C by the ARC!


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Father Tadeusz spiritually aligned with Pope Francis
Father Tadeusz Rydzyk is a living embodiment of the type of a priest and monk promoted by Pope Francis. He reaches out to those that have been excluded, gets engaged in new evangelisation and kicks up a ruckus in defence of a good cause if necessary.
If we were to look for a Polish priest or monk who almost perfectly fits the description of an evangeliser, priest or monk as understood by the Pope—obviously within Poland's cultural and religious framework— then it would be Father Tadeusz Rydzyk. And even though this proposition will come across as absurd, perhaps even scandalous, insulting (depending on the attitudes and sympathies towards Pope Francis or the Father Director), or even unorthodox (journalistically, not theologically speaking) to nearly all sides of the Polish debate on the Church and politics, it is nevertheless—and I know I'm being immodest—accurate. The Redemptorist monk from Torun does evangelise, and uses modern means; he draws on the tradition of folk Catholicism; builds areas of support for the most excluded and, finally, kicks up a ruckus. In a short: he stays faithful to what the current Pope calls on priests, monks and more broadly all Christians to do.
The star of the new evangelisation
All it takes is a quick look at celebrations consecrating a new church in Torun in order to understand this. It is no coincidence that the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Star of the New Evangelisation, is the patron saint of the sanctuary alongside St John Paul II. Nor is it an attempt at making nice to the mainstream Church, which so often brings up the new evangelisation. It is, above all, a manifestation of Father Rydzyk's deepest beliefs and plans. Radio Maryja, like his subsequent initiatives, has always served the same purpose: new evangelisation, winning people over to faith and God. In the early 1990s, when Radio Maryja was being set up, this was exactly the goal that guided him. Spreading the Gospel to where it had not been heard.
And it just takes listening to the radio's programmes, if just for a few days, to discover that this is the place where all of this takes place. The Rosary and the Chaplet, Bible studies, catechesis for spouses: all of this has been the backbone of the Torun-based radio's broadcasts. And its special power is that its listeners, often confined to silence and solitude at their homes, can not only find a community on the air but also get things off their chests, meet others, and be heard. That has always attracted the audience; it makes people not only want to listen to Radio Maryja but also offer donations for new initiatives endorsed by Father Rydzyk: a TV station, a university and, most recently, a sanctuary.
Yet, the Father Director's new evangelisation is distinctly Polish, to the point of being almost unbearably old Polish gentry-like, at times coarse and hardly observant of Puritan morals, focused instead on the ornate form and less on the content. Sometimes when you listen to Father Rydzyk's talk shows (and maybe that's even more the case with some of the guests of "Unfinished Conversations"), the images of the shaven heads of the gentry come to mind, conducting heated night-time debates at local conventions or in the election fields. The politics of such conventions easily (but sometimes radically) merge with religion, as does evangelisation in word with the economy or Polish tolerance with the scolding or mocking of heretics. That might be jarring for the aesthetes who find the old-Polish gentry mindset repulsive and who instead of the lively popular religiousness opt for highbrow essays by (preferably German) intellectuals, but this is what makes ordinary Poles want to listen, even though a comment every so often infuriates them (or makes them want to hit someone with a club). But the Gospel in its distinctly Polish flavour permeates all these emotions and talk and stays with the listeners.
Reaching out to the excluded
Focusing on the most excluded people in society is also exceedingly Polish but at the same time strictly connected to Pope Francis's ministry. From the very start, Radio Maryja and its founder reached out to those who were excluded from building the Third Polish Republic. On the one hand, this group included the elderly, those unable to adapt to Mr Balcerowicz's capitalism, on the other—strict Catholics for whom the Catholicism presented for years in "Noah's Arc," a religious column in Gazeta Wyborcza, was definitely not to their liking. There was no shortage of people among his audience who thought that liberal democracy is not the only acceptable model of government, although this was considered as outrageous heresy for many years.
The community of the excluded, built and uplifted over the years by Father Tadeusz Rydzyk, was not purely virtual. The radio station offered quite tangible help to people who wouldn't have received it from anywhere else. Those better off—in the spirit of papal encyclical letters— financially supported the poorer ones, and those in poverty shared what they had with those in the direst need. Solidarity in and around Radio Maryja was not just a lofty and ever-present word, but also a genuine attitude thanks to which many people received gifts they had not even dared to dream of. The Redemptorist from Torun was able to inspire his listeners to share, an attitude that had been undermined by communism for decades. In effect, all of his projects have been financed from the contributions of the faithful, who often feel the pinch of poverty themselves.
Through such behaviour Father Tadeusz Rydzyk was (and is) thoroughly Polish. Just like his predecessors—priests who built the popular, national and social grass root movement—the Redemptorist from Torun has never refrained from harsh words, condemning, in the name of the Gospel, those who disagreed with him (or rather: with his understanding of the Gospel). Like them, he turned to the disadvantaged and offered them a social Gospel which asserted that a state which writes off a social group loses its moral ground. And just like them he could not only rally activists around him but also raise the anger of those he criticised, which in Poland's case consisted of a group that wielded long-time power in shaping opinion. This is why Gazeta Wyborcza and its offshoots have for years tried to tarnish the reputation of Father Tadeusz Rydzyk, who would be invariably depicted as the biggest threat to Poland's democracy and Catholicism. And he wasn't alone in that, either, since before the war the same ideological circles were badmouthing… St Maksymilian Maria Kolbe.
Just for our time
As a matter of fact, the mention of St. Maksymilian is deliberate. Father Tadeusz Rydzyk is in a way the successor of his mission. Already in the 1920s the heroic Franciscan claimed that the Church was losing the battle for hearts and minds in the media and, he said, to start winning it again, people had to be given a real choice, which meant they had to be given, besides the mass liberal and Masonic media, the mass, sometimes, tabloid, Catholic media. The Torun Redemptorist reached the same conclusion half a century later and set up a radio station that was to be (and for a long time was) an antidote to the neoliberal and leftist message that was circulated by nearly all other media outlets. Later on, again following in St Maksymilian's footsteps (who started from a monthly only to add a daily, a network of monasteries and a minor seminary on the way), he also established Trwam TV, a university and a new sanctuary, which may soon become a new Niepokolanow on Poland's pilgrimage map.
Looking for the sources and models of Father Tadeusz Rydzyk's pastoral and evangelical commitment (and success), we need not only stick to Poland. The monk from Torun draws on a handful (perhaps not always consciously, sometimes just by sharing their world view of American and Latin American examples: both Catholic (for instance, the late Mother Angelica's EWTN cable network) and Protestant (the immensely strong phenomenon of American TV evangelists). Just like him, they also built strong, outspoken media that is financed mostly by viewer contributions; their political message is often very controversial because it doesn't kowtow to the liberal establishment, while the viewers—even if their community with a charismatic leader is a virtual one—are capable of getting involved in quite concrete work: universities, churches, and even charity institutions. And Father Tadeusz has taken the same path, only in a slightly different cultural setting. And the outrage he's been causing in the liberal media only proves his path is right and his mission is being really fulfilled. The new Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Star of the New Evangelisation, and St John Paul II, is the latest sign of this.
Tomasz P. Terlikowski
Source: Do Rzeczy