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Proverbs 29:2 says, "When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan."
Perhaps nowhere in America is this more evident than in California. October has been a spectacular month for the promotion of wickedness. Wickedness is no longer an issue of which political party a person claims, but is based on acceptance or rejection of biblical morality. In the second week of October Californians began to groan because Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger signed Senate Bill 777 into law, which is a major step advancing the homosexual agenda in claiming the lives of young students in their earliest formative years. Analysts have warned that schools across the nation will be impacted by his decision since Textbook Publishers must cater to their largest purchasers, which often are States like California and Texas. Homosexuality, bisexuality and "other alternative life-style choices" have to be portrayed as normal. Children starting in Kindergarten and on up will not necessarily see the terms "Mom and Dad" or "Husband and Wife" because they could promote discrimination.
Most parents want to know that when they send their kids off to school it is a safe environment but how "safe" can an environment be when "alternative sexual life-styles" are now mandated as presented to our youngest kids. Companion Bill AB394 was also signed which targets parents and teachers for indoctrination through anti-harassment training. Any text that portrays marriage only between a man and a woman will be outlawed. We now have a situation where a Homecoming King can either be male or female and vise versa. It is also now guaranteed that depending on how a student feels that day, whether male or female, they may use the restroom or the locker room which corresponds to how they are "feeling." Girl students who complain about a boy in their bathroom can be reported as a "harasser." The ultimate "harasser" is God who assigns those who practice perversion to the flaming fire of hell!
Christians groaned initially but it didn't take long for the rest of California to groan. This time the groaning came by fire forcing the largest evacuation in American history. Nearly 1800 homes have been taken and thousands of acres burned. Again we hear the words of Proverbs 29:2, "When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan." California is groaning today and hardly anyone of our elected officials is hearing anybody in the church draw the corresponding parallels that should be obvious.
In Amos 3:2-6 God is speaking to covenant Israel who has turned away from Him. It could just as easily be written to covenant America who is turning away from God and spitting in His face at the legislative level. Amos 3:2-6 says, "You only have I known of all the families of the earth; Therefore I will punish you for all your iniquities." Can two walk together, unless they are agreed? Will a lion roar in the forest, when he has no prey? Will a young lion cry out of his den, if he has caught nothing? Will a bird fall into a snare on the earth, where there is no trap for it? Will a snare spring up from the earth, if it has caught nothing al all? If a trumpet is blown in a city, will not the people be afraid? If there is calamity in a city, will not the LORD have done it?"
The real question is: "What is the church to do?" "Feel good" messages from Seeker Sensitive Christianity do nothing but encourage the enemy by paralyzing the church. In this season we need to trade passivity for the most potent fire-power ever offered. The church languishes not knowing what to do!
There is an answer in the covenant of "Sure Mercy" enabling every believer to use the prayers of David to bring justice that more and more people might not be damaged and destroyed. When our leaders choose a perverse path everyone pays. California is a blinking neon sign to that truth.


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Projecting Confidence
Risk Sciences International understands the value of communicating risk with confidence and authority. Risk communication involves understanding the perspective, concerns, and values of the intended audience, and then presenting the right information to project confidence and ensure understanding.
In particular, this involves:
- distilling a complex risk assessment into an actionable decision;
- providing an accurate understanding of a technology for specific target audience; or
- promoting risk comprehension and appropriate protective behaviour in an emergency or public health situation.

subset: commoncrawl


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As business owners pore through the new tax law,
many are asking themselves a fundamental question: Will changing how their
company is structured cut their tax bills?
"This is one of the most pressing issues for taxpayers and
business owners," said Mark Everson, vice chairman of tax-consulting firm
Alliantgroup LP. "They are looking carefully now at how they are legally
For many entrepreneurs, the big question is whether to
operate as a C corporation, which pays its own taxes to the Internal Revenue
Service, or as a pass-through company, which pays tax through individual rather
than corporate returns. Pass-through businesses include S corporations, sole
proprietorships and limited liability companies.
The clock is ticking. Many business owners have until March
15 to make an election that would be retroactive to the beginning of 2018.
The rethinking of corporate structures is one byproduct of
the new tax bill, which cuts the corporate tax rate to 21%, down from a top
rate of 35%, though owners pay a second tax on profits distributed as
"We are telling people that it makes sense to reconsider
doors that have historically been closed," said David H. Kirk, a partner with
Ernst & Young LLP.
The top individual tax rate has been lowered to 37% from
39.6%, and owner of many pass-through business can deduct 20% of pass-through
income, reducing the top effective rate to 29.6%, though
not all qualify for that deduction.
Pride Resource Partners, a two-year-old project management
consulting firm based in San Diego, soon will operate as a C corporation
instead of a limited liability company. "If we incorporate, our tax burden is
only 21%," said Chief Executive Joe Maak, whose 30-person firm oversees
projects for utilities. "We are going to do it very quickly."
Brian Reardon, president of the S Corporation Association,
which lobbied for favorable tax treatment for pass-throughs, said: "Every
member we have is right now working the numbers."
Some individuals also are looking at whether they should set
up a new business entity for tax reasons.
Business owners filed 35.3 million pass-through returns in
2015, according to the Joint Committee on Taxation. Another 1.6 million returns
were filed by C corporations. Pass-through companies have become more common
since Congress lowered individual tax rates in 1986.
The moves are going in both directions and the calculations
are complicated and company-specific. Cindy and Peter Kahl switched
Speisekammer in Alameda, Calif. to an S corporation in January to take
advantage of the new pass-through deduction. The Kahls, who have 40 employees,
opted for C corporation status when they opened the German restaurant 15 years
ago, figuring they might sell stock and expand.
But with those plans now on hold, the Kahls want to avoid
paying a second tax on profits distributed as dividends.
"We will save a lot of money because of the double
taxation," said Ms. Kahl. "It just simplifies things."
Mr. Maak of Pride Resource Partners said he is making the
shift because his company won't qualify for the 20% pass-through deduction due
to limits on service businesses. In addition, he would be limited to a $10,000
deduction for state and local taxes, while as a C corporation, the company will
be able to deduct all its California taxes.
Many companies are taking longer to decide because the
calculations are complicated, said Milwaukee tax attorney Thomas Nichols, with
the answers turning on the size of dividend payouts, when the owners expect to
sell, expectations for what Congress might do down the road, and other factors.
Pass-throughs, for instance, are likely to be more attractive to business
owners who expect to sell soon because gains from the sale of a C corporation
may be subject to tax at both the corporate and individual level.
Brian Durst, chief executive of natural foods company Tribe
9 Foods LLC, thinks a shift to C corporation status could be a plus. "We will
be investing a lot of our profits back into the business both in terms of
capital projects and key talent and marketing initiatives," said Mr. Durst,
whose company makes fresh pasta, nut butters and grain-free cookies and bars.
Another issue is you can pretty easily switch to a C
corporation, but switching back is harder. Businesses switching from an S
corporation to a C corporation must wait until the fifth year to elect to
become an S corporation again. For five years after the switch is made, gains
tied to the C corporation's assets are taxed twice upon sale—at the corporate
and individual levels. "It's much easier to get into a C corp than get out,"
said John Rooney, a director in the Washington, D.C. national tax practice of
Tony Simmons, president of family-owned McIlhenny Company,
which has made Tabasco brand hot sauce for 150 years, said he considered converting
to C corporation status. But it turned out, he said, that the family's total
tax bill would rise by 10% compared with what it had been paying as an S
corporation under the old law because of the additional tax owners of C
corporations pay on profits distributed as dividends. Instead, by staying an S
corporation, the family's tax bill will fall by roughly 6% due to the new
pass-through deduction.


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- M.A. Sport Management
- Long Beach, CA
- 18 months/36 credits
- $18,900
- minimum 2.75
- Statement of Purpose
- Three reference forms
- Resume
- 9 credits
- Minimum 500 contact hours
- Over 400 affiliations
Steve received his Bachelor of Arts Degree and Secondary Teaching Credential from CSULB in 1974. He began his teaching career in Special Education in the Los Angeles Unified School District. He was a member and captain of the Long Beach State Crew team, receiving the '49er of the Year' and 'William Lockyer Awards' for outstanding contributions. He later returned to CSULB in 1980 to serve as the Assistant Women's Volleyball Coach.
Four years later he joined the ARCO Products Company and spent 15 years in the world of petroleum products and convenience stores, culminating in leading the Marketing Department for the nationally recognized ampm Convenience Store Franchise, setting new standards for the industry.
He earned his MBA in Business Administration from Pepperdine University. Steve also led the Marketing and Sport Partnership efforts for Carl Karcher Enterprises as Senior Vice President of Marketing and Product development for the Carl's Jr. restaurant franchise. He later joined LA Fitness, a national fitness club chain, as the Vice President of Marketing. Most recently, he directed the retail operations for The Pepsi Bottling Group's Inland Empire Market Unit, receiving the 'Presidents Circle of Excellence Award' and 'Chairman's Award' for outstanding contributions to the business.
After twenty-three years, he comes full circle returning to Long Beach State University, as our Manager of Business Affairs and Marketing.


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Collection Flamingo of Vibia collaboration Antoni Arola Flamingo, is the name that gives title to this collection, proposed by Designer Antoni Arola for Vibia.Vibia is a signa
Collection Sparks of Vibia collaboration Arik Levy Arik Levy has created for Vibia a unique and versatile wall lamp.Sparks is a collection whose elements can be rotated, allow
Collection Nenúfar of Marset designed by Joan Gaspar Nenúfar is the result of the author's intense search, Joan Gaspar, for creating a structure of light that seem
Collection Mr Magoo of Linealight MADE collaboration Mirco Crosato Collection Mr Magoo, designed by Mirco Crosato especially for the manufacturer Linealight MADE. The Gro
Collection Tolomeo Faretto of Artemide collaboration Michele De Lucchi Faretto and Micro Faretto version of the collection Tolomeo designed by Michele De Lucchi for Artemide.&
Collection Nolita Cotton of Marset designed by Joan Gaspar Nolita Cotton collection, created by the Spanish lighting manufacturer Marset in collaboration with the design
Collection Pin of Vibia collaboration Ichiro Iwasaki Pin is a collection composed by a desktop lamp, a floor lamp and wall lamp, designed by Ichiro Iwasaki. This collection is
Monday-Friday, from 8:00am to 15:30pm.
Modern Lamps design, Technical lighting, interior design, designer chairs, office lighting, hotel lamps, lamps Vibia, designer Philippe stack, store lamps Projects, lighting, decoration studies, exposure lamps, price lamps and lighting , outlet. Designer lamps, catalogs of lamps and lighting professional, Valencia, Italy Foscarini lamps, lamps barcelona, Lighting projects in Madrid, Barcelona Modiss and Artemide lamps, lamps stores, product catalogs designer lamps, discounts and offers.
In buying the best deals iLamparas.com. You can buy in our shop lamps and lighting deliver all cities in Spain: Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, Sevilla, Zaragoza, Bilbao, Malaga ... and Spain. You can also buy designer lamps from Germany, France, Italy, Netherlands ... and almost any country in the world. Find prices design lamps and lower budgets. Look at the photos to see their features, read reviews and comments from the lamps of other users and send us your queries and questions. In iLamparas.com you can find sales, discounts and sales, compare and buy lighting lamps design at the best prices.


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Lots of talk about community in my world – missional community, holistic community, neo-monastic community, intercultural community, church community, intentional community… all sound great. Of course, most talk about all of these without much specificity – they are often buzz words without real definition. So, this is an attempt at clarify what I mean when I talk about Christian community.
First, Jesus. Christian community, by definition, includes Jesus. Now, I think we can be at various places of journey/understanding/relationship with Jesus. May seem obvious, but we would be remiss if there wasn't overt acknowledgment that this community takes identity from Jesus. NOTE: this can be expressed many ways, yes? Formal, informal, baptist-flavoured, pentecostal-style, whatever. Those are religious forms we put around our understanding of Jesus, and are debatable. But Jesus is a must for Christian community. Can we differ on some of our beliefs, backgrounds, and practice? I think so because we are centred around Jesus, not just our way of following him. Do you agree?
Next, we have a commitment to one another that is based on relationship, not contract. We have agreed with one another to have a shared relationship with one another around Jesus. Therefore, different people can live out their commitment to varying degrees. Perhaps I have less time and energy than you. That's ok. The point isn't how much I do, it's a common relationship with Jesus. We value heat commitment, not hours or money spent. If you want to make a formal commitment, that is fine and I welcome and honour that. Community allows people to be at different places at one time. Think if this in terms of other relationships you have – do you make friends sign a contract? Are they no longer friends if they can't make it to dinner one week? Hopefully not! There is give and take, grace, love – all those good things.
Third, I think Christian community needs some sense of purpose. Does this mean each and every person must do all the same things? No. Do we all have to carry the same burden for the same cause? I don't think so. Many "communities" define themselves by one interest. The problem with that is they are therefore closed communities. This seems to be at odds with having Jesus at the centre. Perhaps a common purpose is something as broad as "helping one another follow Jesus" or "Seeking God's Kingdom." To me, these seem different than specific causes. Is there a difference between purpose and cause? I DO think that if there is no purpose, you are ultimately a bunch of people hanging around. That's fine, but again doesn't fit with the Jesus part, because he as always about God's mission and has asked his people to do the same.
Also, I think that Christian community must have some amount of "in common." The obvious (though not easy) things are shared time, money, stuff, interests. I am really glad that so many people experiment with various forms of communal life. I am saddened that our individualistic/materialistic culture wins most often and convinces us to grow up and get our own things. It appears that many of the most vibrant forms of community through the story of God's people had things in common. Do we have to have everything in common? Not necessarily. I believe different communities can decide together what and how they are going to share – there's not "one way." But if that conversation is not being had, then I don't think it's community.
Finally, I think true forms of community are ones where we don't get to pick just our friends to be part. We need people who are different, people we don't know yet, even people we don't like?! for our own sake. You can read Bonhoeffer's "Life Together" for really good thoughts on this. In short, Christian community MUST contain variation. It must to be reflective of God's heart and creation. It must so that we have to learn to love and compromise. We NEED people who are somehow different, even if this means it is not as easy. This one may be the most difficult, but is also the most powerful for everyone involved. How different can we stand to be and still maintain relationship?
You' may notice I haven't said anything about what we must DO. I think that is pretty negotiable from community to community. Also, I don't think we are defined by our practice. Rather, practices are fluid to reflect how we are wanting to share our lives with one another around Jesus. Our new community, for example, is currently meeting every-other-week for a meal, being together, and prayer. Other things can happen in between, but they aren't mandatory. That's it for now. We're young and getting to know one another. And, most of our people are involved in significant ministry, so we are inviting one another to join in what we are doing rather than creating something new. We are sharing our lives with Jesus with one another. This rhythm will grow and change as we move along, but it works for now. And it seems that God is at work, so we keep listening to God together and will see what's next.
Christian community can be found in a traditional church. Or it can not. I don't mean any of this in opposition to any particular church expression. Rather, I would hope that regardless of your church/faith community/missional community/holistic community/intercultural community/intentional community, if you are wanting it to be CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY, you find these things to be true.
Are they true of your community? If not, do you want them to be present and how can you help?


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About Us
Parish Bulletin
Sacred Liturgy
Parish Photos
Groups and Activities
Parish Membership
Contact Us
Photo Library
All photos on these pages are copyright to the Parish of Saint John Henry Newman and may not be reproduced
or used for any purpose without permission.
Many more photos (not available here) of Parish liturgies and events also appear on our
Facebook page.
Low Requiem Mass for Bishop Meeking
Second Sunday of Lent
Purification of the BVM (Candlemas)
Octave of the Nativity
6th Day in the Octave of the Nativity
Solemn Vespers of the Holy Innocents
Sung Mass of the Holy Innocents (Pre-1962 rite)
Solemn Mass of St John/Blessing of Wine
Solemn Mass of St Stephen
Solemn Dawn Mass
Solemn Midnight Mass
Expectancy of Our Lady
Third Sunday of Advent (
First Sunday of Advent
Solemn Mass of All Saints'
Solemn Mass of the External Solemnity of BL JHN
Feast of St John Henry Newman
Solemn Mass of the Dedication of St Michael, Archangel
Exaltation of the Holy Cross
13th Sunday After Pentecost
12th Sunday After Pentecost/Farewell to Shawn, Hung, Tim and Anthony
Sung Mass of the Immaculate Heart of Mary
Solemn Mass of the Assumption
Solemn Mass in the Dominican Rite (Feast of St Dominic)
Solemn Mass of the 6th Sunday after Pentecost
Solemn Pontifical Requiem Mass - 2019 ACCC Conference
Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus
External Solemnity of Corpus Christi
Solemn Vespers of Pentecost & Benediction
Solemn Mass of Pentecost
Requiem Mass for Michael Houlihan
Sung Mass of Easter Wednesday
Solemn Paschal Vigil and Mass
Solemn Pontifical Mass of Easter
Tenebrae for Holy Saturday
Good Friday Liturgy
Good Friday Stations of the Cross
Solemn Pontifical Mass of the Lord's Supper
Tenebrae for Maundy Thursday
Blessing of Palms/Procession, Solemn Mass of Palm Sunday
Solemn Mass of Passion Sunday
Solemn First Vespers & Benediction of Laetare Sunday
Solemn Pontifical Mass - Carmel of Jesus, Mary & Joseph
Feast of St Joseph
First Sunday of Lent
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
Feast of St Titus - St Patrick's Cathedral
Candlemas - Blessing of Candles/Procession
Solemn Mass of the Epiphany
Solemn Mass of the Christmas Octave
Sung Mass of St Thomas Becket
Sung Mass of the Holy Innocents
Solemn Mass of St John
Sung Mass of St Stephen
Solemn Day Mass
Solemn Dawn Mass
Solemn Midnight Mass
Expectancy of the BVM
Gaudete Sunday
Solemn Mass of the Immaculate Conception
Last Sunday After Pentecost - 25th Nov, 2018
Solemn Requiem Mass & Absolutions - Armistice Centenary
Solemn Mass of All Souls' - 2nd November, 2018
Pontifical Low Mass - Feast of St Hedwig
Pontifical Mass - Cardinal Burke - Part IV
Pontifical Mass - Cardinal Burke - Part III
Pontifical Mass - Cardinal Burke - Part II
Pontifical Mass - Cardinal Burke - Part I
Pontifical Low Mass - Feast of St Edward
Solemnity of St John Henry Newman
Sung Mass of the Feast of St Michael
Seven Dolours of Our Lady
Exaltation of the Holy Cross
Feast of St Pius X
First EF Mass - Fr Rafal Huzarski SJ
13th Sunday after Pentecost
Assumption of the BVM
Parish Coat of Arms
Fr Tattersall Anniversary
Feast of St Aloysius
Solemn Mass of Corpus Christi
Solemn Mass of Pentecost
Day of Recollection
Candlemas - Blessing & Procession
Septuagesima/15th Anniversary
Octave of the Nativity
Solemn Dawn Mass
Solemn Midnight Mass


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On March 1, 2018, An Act to amend the Holidays Act (Remembrance Day) (Bill C-311) received royal assent to recognize Remembrance Day (November 11) as a national legal holiday. The Act is law but not yet in force and requires proclamation.
Some background
Bill C-311, An Act to amend the Holidays Act (Remembrance Day) changes the wording and status of Remembrance Day in the federal Holidays Act by making it a legal holiday, like Canada Day and Victoria Day.
At present, provinces and territories determine which days are public holidays. Remembrance Day is recognized as a statutory holiday for federally regulated workers under the Canada Labour Code. In Alberta, British Columbia, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Northwest Territories, Nunavut, Prince Edward Island, Saskatchewan and Yukon, Remembrance Day is a statutory holiday under their respective employment/labour standards law. The legislation now passed, will force provinces and territories that don't recognize November 11 as a statutory holiday to revisit their own employment/labour standards legislation.
Under Manitoba's and Nova Scotia's Remembrance Day Act, most industries are not allowed to operate on Remembrance Day, with exceptions. For instance, in Manitoba, the following industries are allowed to operate: hospital employees; hotel and restaurant employees; workers who do emergency repairs; and workers who supply heat, gas, light, water or electrical services, just to name a few. Employees who do not work on November 11 do not get paid for the day, unless the employer offers pay as an added benefit.
In Ontario Remembrance Day is not a statutory holiday. While some employers give their employees a holiday on Remembrance Day, they are not required to do so under the Employment Standards Act, 2000.
Remembrance Day is not a statutory holiday in Quebec, as well.
Yosie Saint-Cyr, LL.B. Managing Editor
Latest posts by Yosie Saint-Cyr, LL.B. Managing Editor (see all)
- First Monday in August 2020, a public holiday for some! - July 30, 2020
- Canada Day, statutory (public) holiday - June 30, 2020
- Celebrating Canadian Multiculturalism Day - June 26, 2020


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With The Hobbit Trilogy now completed as extended edition blu-ray releases, there isn't too much for the fantasy fan.
One of my favourite and underrated movies, Warcraft, is out today.
Now, it wasn't exactly a smash hit, and it certainly wasn't as bad as the critics made it out to be, but it was also not The Lord of the Rings or Game of Thrones epic that was promised from the various convention panels, etc. I gave the film a solid, well-rounded 7/10.
So, today, it arrives on blu-ray. Sadly, there isn't an extended / director's cut version of the film included. Perhaps some day. It is mine, and other fans' hopes that the blu-ray will sell enough that a Warcraft II will get made, or possibly an extended version later on. I mention this because, wasn't it DVD sales that saved Family Guy, as well as a few other shows and films??
Here are the specs, and what's included:
Run Time: Theatrical: 2 Hour(s) 3 Minutes
MPAA Rating: PG-13
Language & Audio: Blu-ray: English Dolby Atmos / English DVS Dolby Digital 2.0 Stereo / Spanish Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround / French Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround
Subtitles: Blu-ray: English SDH / Spanish / French
Picture: Widescreen / Color
All Blu-ray versions will include:
- The Fandom of Warcraft – Delve into the history and breadth of the fandom behind the game and film, as well as the way it has influenced pop culture.
- ILM: Behind the Magic of Warcraft – See some of the groundbreaking facial capture technology utilized by Industrial Lights & Magic to convey the emotion and depth of the visually impressive Orc characters in the film.
- Warcraft: Bonds of Brotherhood Motion Comic – Take an interactive journey through the official Warcraft graphic novel with a never-before-seen motion comic that brings the story of the film's young heroes – Prince Llane, Captain Lothar and Guardian Medivh - to life in this unique experience.
- The World of Warcraft on Film
– The "World of Warcraft" is much more than just a game – it is a
cultural phenomenon as documented in this comprehensive multi-part
feature focused on bringing the unique environs of Warcraft to film:
- The World of Talent – Fans can learn more about the casts' reactions to being a part of the Warcraft film, how they prepared for their role and the challenges they encountered during filming.
- The World of VFX – The Warcraft universe wouldn't exist without the tireless efforts of the VFX crew. Follow along with the filmmakers as they tell the story of how Warcraft came to life through VFX.
- Outfitting a World – Learn how the filmmakers worked with WETA workshop, Blizzard, and acclaimed costume designer Mayes Rubeo to create the weaponry and armor that must be familiar and otherworldly at the same time, all while creating a unique aesthetic for the film.
- The World of MOCAP – An overview of the creation of the Orcs and other digital characters from inception all the way through to the final execution. Through extensive footage of the actors in their MOCAP suits and live in-camera renderings during production, the audience will see the incredible effort that went into creating the Orcs.
- The World of Stunts – Though much of Warcraft was created through extensive VFX, the fight scenes and stunts had to be very real. In this featurette, fans can learn more about the extensive fight choreography and stunt work that fueled the film's action from beginning to end.
- Madame Tussauds' Featurette – Featurette on the making of the Warcraft wax figures by Madame Tussauds.
- Deleted Scenes
- Gag Reel
- Origin Story
- Warcraft Teaser: An early teaser which premiered at San Diego Comic-Con in 2013.


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Enter Hell on Wheels' Throwdown Sweepstakes for a Chance to Meet Brantley Gilbert
Throw down in Nashville with country music star Brantley Gilbert: Enter the Hell on Wheels Throwdown Sweepstakes for your chance to win passes to an exclusive performance by Brantley Gilbert and Friends. One lucky fan and a guest will win:
- Roundtrip airfare to Nashville, TN
- Three nights hotel accommodations
- Two passes to a private "Brantley Gilbert and Friends" acoustic event and meet and greet
Brantley Gilbert's "Small Town Throwdown" (featuring Justin Moore and Thomas Rhett), from the No. 1 selling album Just As I Am, is available now.
Hell on Wheels airs Saturdays at 9/8c on AMC.Read More


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I find it amazing that many things folks once backslid to do are now permissible to do and still be saved. Truly we are seeing the scripture fulfilled: "While they promise them liberty, they themselves are the servants of corruption: for of whom a man is overcome, of the same is he brought in bondage. For if after they have escaped the pollution of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, they are again entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end is worse with them than the beginning. For it had been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them." 2 Peter 2:19-21
Beware when you hear these who have discovered the liberty of rebellion make the statement - "What's the difference between..." Their question is not an honest one. They are looking to justify carnal reasoning and sinful actions. Never is that question asked in the fear of the Lord desiring to draw closer to the righteousness and holiness of the Lord Jesus.
Just as carnal believers rejected Jesus, Paul, John, and the rest of God called prophets and preachers - so do the same spiritually rebellious reject God called voices today. Do they feel liberty? Yes! Do they talk in tongues? Yes! Do they see miracles? Yes! However, all of those things are signs pointing towards salvation NOT salvation. Salvation is still based upon obedience to God's Word - ALL of it - not only the parts that one enjoys.
Most of the generation of Apostolic folks I was raised around no longer believe what was once taught and preached. They will say they believe Acts 2:38 but not the standards - the two are inseparable. Several have went off into false doctrine. Many are backslid and reject the Pentecostal/Apostolic experience - calling it legalistic and Pharisaical.
I have always thanked God that although there was much physical and sexual abuse directed towards me by folks in the church, I never doubted the absolutes of Acts 2:38 salvation, standards of separation, and the need to evangelize our world that Bro Howard Davis preached and practiced.
I had no desire to hang out with backsliders and allow them to vomit their hatred, bitterness, and unbelief on me. I simply accepted the fact that Joe Savala was angry, bitter, and morally messed up and could never live successfully for God. Almost 23 years ago God in His mercy allowed me to return home under the leadership of Bro N.J. Wilson and I made up my mind to serve Jesus Christ according to the Truth that had been instilled in me throughout the years. Since that time, it's never been for sale and it never will be.
"Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered to the saints." Jude 1:3
More to come....


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Be aware early on and influence delivery
GLS informs parcel recipients by e-mail about the delivery and gives them the opportunity to choose from a wide range of delivery options – and this even before and also while the parcel is on its way.
The recipient will receive ordered goods faster and more conveniently because he can influence the place and time of delivery. This is possible until 4 o'clock in the morning of the delivery day. This way the recipient avoids that a parcel is delivered when nobody is present to accept it.
Your benefits at a glance
- The recipient already receives information before shipment has started
- Direct access to the delivery options via the link in the e-mail
- No registration or login necessary
- The recipient can chose from a wide range of delivery options with just a few clicks
- Three hour delivery time frames given for selected delivery dates
E-mail number 1 – when the goods are ready for dispatch
The company from which was ordered prepares the parcel and will send the parcel data to GLS as well as the recipient's e-mail address – if he has agreed to this (via the terms and conditions or during the ordering process). An e-mail with information about the usual delivery time and the estimated delivery date will be sent to the recipient. At this time other delivery options can already be chosen.
E-mail number 2 – when the parcel is on its way
As soon as GLS collects the finished parcel at the sender, it is possible to determine the day of delivery. The recipient will then receive a second e-mail, in which alternative delivery dates with time frames are given. This information is based on experience, but not binding, because it may happen that trucks or delivery vans get caught up in traffic jams.
Further e-mails – after delivery or delivery attempt
Even after the delivery, GLS keeps the recipient informed about the status of the parcel. This is done regardless of whether a delivery option has been selected.
The recipient receives the following information
- Parcel has been delivered
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text:
I just finished reading Encyclopedia of Slide Layouts, by Andrew V. Abela, Ph.D. and Paul J. Radich (Soproveitto Press, Great Falls, VA). As a fan of Abela's Chart Chooser (http://www.labnol.org/software/find-right-chart-type-for-your-data/6523/ ), which I use often in Excel training, I had great expectations for this book. I was not disappointed!
In addition to teaching a lot of Excel, I also teach a lot of PowerPoint. Microsoft introduced SmartArt way back in Office 2007. And, still I'm amazed at how many people don't know it's there. Even if they do, many folks are not just sure how to use it. This book is the key to that and so much more. For me, the subtitle states the real value of this content: "Inspiration for Visual Communication." Indeed, it is.
One of the things that hooked me into this book was the acknowledgement that "presentation" doesn't always mean projected onto a screen. One of my pet peeves has always been content on a screen that the audience has to squint at to read. I tell my students that while that's happening, all the audience hears from the speaker is "blah, blah, blah." If the message is important (which hopefully it is, or why would you be going to all this trouble?), knowing the best visuals to support it is a presentation design imperative. The book begins with Abela's trademarked Extreme Presentation Method as a backdrop to choosing slide layouts. One is give a good foundation for using the book in these first pages. So, don't skip the Roman numeral pages in front!
Another bonus here, is that in a world ruled by bad PowerPoint presentations, the authors acknowledge other visual-aid design tools, such as Chartco, Diagrammer, PowerFrameworks, as well as SmartArt found in PowerPoint (Office 2007-2013). You'll learn what a "squint test" is why you want to do it before you ever put your visuals in front of an audience. One of my favorite new terms is "chart junk," which is basically anything that may look cool to you in the moment, but serves no real purpose on a slide or handout, except to muddle its message and bleed printer ink.
Very business-centric, the book features real-life examples from The Corporate Executive Board (CEB), U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), BusinessWeek, and others. Some examples can get a little mired down in advanced business principles. For the average information worker, though, it's worth slogging through, even if you have to break out your old books from college as reference. I promise after using this book, you will be looking at your own presentations and those of others, critically. That's not a bad thing!
The book is available from http://www.ExtremePresentation.com and Amazon.com starting 1/23/2015.


text:
In 2015. PJTN spearheaded the first ant-BDS resolution campaign in Tennessee.
Based on the overwhelming success, PJTN Watchmen are currently working across the country in replicating and scaling PJTN's original "Tennessee Language" so that more states and nations can pass more resolutions, more quickly in the global war against anti-Semitism.
While other anti-BDS measures protect business and trade, PJTN's Anti-BDS Resolution has been identified as a most effective tool—innoculating parents, educators, stakeholders, and our next generation against the normalization of Jew hatred.
By activating and leveraging PJTN Watchman, Anti-BDS Resolutions have been successful:
- To date passed in 10 states
- Been introduced in Ohio, Texas, and Georgia in 2017
- Passed a motion in Canada with our "Tennessee Language" resolution being accepted by Parliament
- 37 states have to date requested information to be introduced to their legislations
- 10 nations globally are in the process of taking action against BDS with legislation.
How can you help? With your support we will replicate and share the playbook with media, in meetings, and through grassroots campaigns targeted to assure the safeguard of America's educational/social ecosystem.
Please join with us!


text:
Our classic shortbread enriched with Chochochip for an experience of pleasure! Enjoy with hot milk or coffee
Wheat flour, butter 24%, sugar, chocolate chips 12% (sugar, cocoa mass, cocoa butter, emulsifier: soy lecithin, natural vanilla flavouring), eggs, salt, raising agents (sodium carbonate acid, ammonium carbonate acid), natural flavourings.
Contains wheat, milk derivatives, soy and eggs.
If you need further information, please fill in the required fields.


text:
Coast Guard cutter Sherman returns to Hawaii from Arctic deployment
By WILLIAM COLE | The Honolulu Star-Advertiser | Published: September 21, 2017
HONOLULU (Tribune News Service) — The Honolulu-based Coast Guard cutter Sherman returned Wednesday after a 94-day, 16,000 mile patrol in the Arctic Ocean and Bering Sea in a region where melting sea ice is causing commercial and military activity to heat up as well.
During the patrol the crew conducted community outreach, fisheries law enforcement, search and rescue, joint military work and national security missions, the Coast Guard said.
Following a short period in port, the 378-foot ship will redeploy to the North for the holiday season, the service said.
Days after arriving in the Gulf of Alaska, the crew was called on to attempt the rescue of fishermen from the capsized fishing vessel Miss Destinee several miles off Kodiak Island.
Two fishermen were rescued by Air Station Kodiak and two were still missing. Sherman brought on eight National Guard parajumpers via an HH-60 Pavehawk helicopter to conduct an emergency night dive to locate the remaining crew.
"Unfortunately, despite the team's best efforts, two lives were lost that night, hitting home for the crew the importance of the ship's presence as a search and rescue platform in this unforgiving environment," Ensign Brandon Newman, the ship's public affairs officer, said in the release.
The Sherman crew linked up with crew of the Canadian coast guard ship Sir Wilfrid Laurier, an icebreaker, above the Bering Strait to conduct a search and rescue discussion.
In late August, the Sherman and Coast Guard cutter Bailey Barco provided a "protection zone" for a Navy ballistic missile submarine. Over some 30 hours, the Sherman and Bailey Barco escorted the submarine in and out of Dutch Harbor on a 140 nautical mile transit, the service said.
At a forum in May, Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Paul Zukunft noted that about a third of the world's natural gas, 13 percent of the world's oil and about $1 trillion in rare minerals are in the Arctic.
As sea ice has melted, Russia already has made a "strategic statement" with increasing capabilities in the region, Zukunft said.
Russia already has 40 icebreakers. Zukunft said Russia will probably launch two new icebreaking corvettes with cruise missiles in the next several years.
The U.S. Coast Guard has one heavy icebreaker and one medium icebreaker, with six more icebreakers planned to come into service starting in 2023.
With Russia's head start, "they've got us at checkmate right from the very beginning if this does become a militarized domain," Zukunft said.
"So it really is going to be a test of U.S. will — are we serious about being an Arctic nation?"
©2017 The Honolulu Star-Advertiser
Visit The Honolulu Star-Advertiser at www.staradvertiser.com
Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.


text: Hey, I work for tmobile and I know that alot of our wifi enabled phones require a data plan to access the internet. My blackberry pearl was stolen yesterday and I am in the market for a new phone. I am looking for wifi enabled phone, preferably on a popular operating system (for 3rd party software) I really like the curve but I need to have the data plan to have wifi access which I do not want My spending limit is around 350 and I am currently looking at unlocked 4gig iphones (Since you can use wireless w/o data service) I am tmobile customer I would love a nice camera and mp3 capabilitys and 8gig sd card option but 2gig is ok as well Much thanks ahead of time for suggestions, I know what phones have wifi access but my biggest problem is finding a phone that does not need the data plan to access it -Todd:loony:


text:
Assisi| No Comments | Published on September 12, 2012
This interactive project blurs the line between physical and digital by simulating paper cranes landing on the participant's head and shoulders in real time.
The delicacy of the interaction—emphasized by the requirement that the user stand extremely still in order to see anything at all—recalls the frustration and satisfaction of real-world bird watching, while making the actions of the user an intrinsic part of the project. Sudden motions cause the birds to fly away, and continuous sudden motion increases their state of agitation, culminating in the explosion of the occasional crane into shards of paper.


text:
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Waiting for news.....
They are going to squeeze her in between patients. So for now I am waiting, waiting, waiting.
Please keep all fingers and paws crossed for my girl.
You'd think.....
Maybe it's just that I'm still unpacking, still hanging pictures and rearranging furniture and shopping for those little things one always seems to need when one moves to a new place.
Maybe it's just that I'm exploring new trails and making new friends and greeting old friends and getting into a new routine (or, rather, a new lack-of-routine).
Maybe it's just that I'm busy finding new health care professionals (canine and human), getting involved in a local movement to end the use of the gas box in this area for the euthanization of cats (more on that in another post), and checking out B&Bs for an overflow of visitors this summer.
Maybe it's just that I'm still closely watching the critters as they adjust to a new environment – especially Oliver, little lost soul, who is finally settling in as long as I don't rearrange or change anything, and Charley, who got very very sick after (I think) injesting something she shouldn't while the other dogs were swimming and playing at Swallowfield.
Whatever the reason, I touch base with my computer about twice a day now – in the morning when I have four furry faces watching me, waiting for their walks, and in the evening when I'm too pooped to ponder and again have four furry faces watching me, waiting for their walks.
In between, it is go, go, go. The dozens of photos from a hike with friends and dogs (including Ellen and the whippet boyz) at Crofton Lake, and of flowers and dogs at Swallowfield, and of sunsets and sunrises and funny cats and silly dogs.....well, they are waiting on my computer to be woven together into a more interesting and entertaining post than this one. Stay tuned.
Retirement – when you finally get to do all the things you've always wanted to do, and discover there still just aren't enough hours in the day!
Saturday, June 27, 2009
Cryptorchid piggies - and a shameful event
The shelter chose to ignore the recommendation of the internationally recognized pig expert, and selected a different vet. That vet discovered the pig was cryptorchid (undescended testes) and recommended euthanizing him, with tales of aggressive male pigs, arguments that pigs with undescended testes cannot be neutered, and other ill-informed and downright incorrect information. Instead of checking back with piggy expert Janice Gillett, the shelter approved the euth and the piggy was put down.
When I first accepted Scotch and Soda as foster pigs, Scotch was not neutered. And yet he was one of the most gentle, soft piggies you can imagine. Personable, funny, sometimes a little pushy but certainly never aggressive, he communicated with sounds and body language that were easily understandable and very manageable.
And he was cryptorchid.
When we took him for neutering, the vet was able to retrieve only one testes – the other had adhered to the bladder, but was shriveled and "almost certainly" nonproductive. Likely still producing testosterone, but not producing viable sperm, Scotch continues his life as a partially-neutered pig. And he continues to be mellow, funny, sometimes pushy, but always manageable and very loving.
Similarly, of the nine male piglets who were born from Soda (pregnant when seized in an animal abuse case and giving birth just a couple of weeks after arriving at my farm), seven were cryptorchid. All were neutered successfully by a vet experienced in potbellied pigs.
There are legitimate reasons for euthanizing an animal, the most pressing being severe, untreatable injury/pain. But euthanizing a pig for being cryptorchid is like euthanizing a human for being mentally or physically disabled. It is immoral, unethical, and downright inhumane.
The number of potbellied pigs abandoned and neglected continues to grow (and in fact some reports state that potbellied pigs, first made popular in Canada in the 1980s, are experiencing a comeback as a "trendy" pet – a thought which alarms me no end, given how many are homeless by the time they are full grown). Shame on the people who bred Freddy the pig in the first place and sold him, unneutered, to the first hand holding money. And shame on the people who took responsibility for Freddy and then abandoned him so he ended up in a shelter.
Shame on the shelter that didn't acknowledge its own limitations and failed to rely on the expert advice available to them. And most of all, shame on the vet who failed to uphold the ethical standards of the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association, and who likewise failed to acknowledge his own limitations – both his limited knowledge of the species and his lack of surgical skills.
A piggy named Freddy was killed the other day, murdered by a man who believed that having an undescended testes was an incurable disease that would lead to others being harmed. His murder was condoned by a shelter who would, I am sure, have never approved the euthanization of a dog on the basis of an undescended testes.
Freddy, I am so sorry. Run free, piggyboy, in a field full of licorice and marshmallows and watermelon, playmates and cosy straw and sunshine, and all the other wonderful things you might have lived to enjoy had humankind not let you down.
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
The Whippets are coming, the whippets are coming!
Allie, of course, is not excited about their visit as they seem to think she is some kind of lure to be chased and captured - we will be taking all possible precautions to keep whippets and kitty separated or supervised!
Meanwhile, here's a potpourri of pictures from the last week or so:
Swim time!
Tides in!
Daisies in the field
Apples on our tree
Sunset on the water
Gulls on the wharf
High tide - steps to beach under water
Dusk on the sea wall
A wall of wild roses on a hike at Swallowfield
More wild roses
Multi-coloured berries
Serenity at Swallowfield
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Oliver Tours the Town
All of a sudden, three nights ago, a lightbulb went off in that tired little brain of his and he "got it". In fact, he didn't just "get it", he reverted to the behaviours he exhibited when I first adopted him, expecting to go for a walk each evening. On Thursday night, around 8:00 pm, he began pacing back and forth between me and the door; we had gone for a little walk to the end of the block and back earlier in the day, and so I assumed he just needed to go out in the yard. But no, he didn't need to pee. He didn't need to poop. He just kept looking at me expectantly, whether he was outside or in.
And so I grabbed his leash and took him for a walk, hoping to settle him down. WELL!!! Off he went, down the block, happy as a clam in sand. I confess, he wasn't "leading" me, or even heeling at my side, but he trotted along behind (okay, "trot" is an exageration - he is almost as good at dawdling as Princess Belle is), and any time I went to turn around he sat down and refused to head back. He went to the park and back again, a total of about seven blocks round trip.
Friday, same thing. And last night.....well, there was no stopping him. He not only went to the park, he happily introduced himself to some boys skateboarding, some seniors out for a stroll, other dog walkers, and anyone who chanced to look his way and say hello. He proceeded past the park, down to the sea walk, and did the whole route the big dogs usually do, except we reversed direction for the return trip rather than doing a loop that involves climbing 52 stairs.
We stood for a while watching the boats in the bay:
Bubbles in the park
He stopped at the park to watch a family with five boys under the age of ten (!!!) blowing bubbles, and a five year old was tickled to find out he shared the same name as the dog.
Because Oliver is a slow walker (ssslllllooooooooowwwwwwwwww walker), we were gone an hour, and the big dogs ended up having their evening walk in the "almost dark".
The harbour at dusk The big dogs didn't mind the late night walk, but tonight I will have to start a wee bit earlier if Oliver is going to take me on another snail's pace tour of the town.
Thursday, June 18, 2009
For Hire: One Feline House Inspector
Better climb up to have a closer look at the plumbing.
Those pipes seem to go behind this cupboard
Maybe I can access them from here.
She also does redecorating:
That's better!
(Note: Allie purposely bats the fish off the windowsill every single time I place it there !)
(Note: This is a nightly occurance - Allie opens all the kitchen cupboard doors while I sleep.)
Monday, June 15, 2009
Coming home: The good, the bad and the just plain frustrating
• The light ocean breeze that freshens the air and keeps warm temperatures bearable
• The ease with which most of the critters have adjusted to their new surroundings now that the furniture is in place and familiar smells surround them
• The peacefulness of a sleepy community, where the sounds of songbirds are more evident than the sounds of traffic
• The pleasure of watching Charley play – yes, PLAY – with Else's three dogs and Sadie on a walk through the beautiful Swallowfield delta area
• The antics of Allie who stands up to open each kitchen and bathroom cupboard, paws on the top, walking backwards, then pops in to see what is inside and pops out the next cupboard door - over and over and over again!
• The incredible friendship of Ellen, who took care of ensuring the housecleaners and carpet cleaners did their job at the rental house in Mission and in doing so, had to deal with foul-mouthed disrespect from the next tenant who had chosen to break into the house (damaging a window) in order to start moving in two days early. Above and beyond, Ellen, thanks so much.
• The wonderful friendship of Ann and Ken, who loaded their pickup to the gills with the items which movers don't take or which were needed immediately, followed me over here, and stayed for three days feeding me, helping me unpack and organize and set up, breaking down all the boxes and rolling all the newsprint, and all they got in return was one fast-food meal out! Friends like that are more precious than gold.
• The amazing welcome from my new dog-loving friends and neighbours, who presented me with a huge hamper of an unending selection of local products from blackberry wine to chocolate bars, goat cheeses and free range eggs and apple butter and honey, a book on local history and a plant and some treats for the critters, a cloth embroidered with a pot bellied piggy, and even a beautifully framed painting that looks like Crofton Lake, and a bottle of Scotch (which wasn't locally produced but which a certain someone knows is "my drink"!), and even more items too numerous to mention. Oh my doG, what a welcome!
• The never-ending support of Else and Bjorn who helped get the house ready, took care of furniture deliveries, arranged for some of the renos, introduced me to people and places, and continue to help orient me to the community
• The relief at looking around me and seeing I have only SIX more boxes to unpack and a little bit of re-organizing to do, just three days after the moving truck arrived! (WHEW!!!!)
• The joy of sitting in my own backyard, watching the family of birds in the birdhouse someone has hung under the roof of the shed, looking at the dozens of apples growing on my tree, seeing the blue of the water over the fence, hearing the barking of seals down by the dock.
The bad:
• The laminate flooring, recently installed by the seller, that causes Belle and especially Oliver no end of grief as they become spread-eagled on it and unable to move. Even area rugs and runners are not sufficient to stop poor Oli from becoming stranded and panicky. Looks like the new carpet I put in the bedroom will have to be extended to the hallway, living and dining rooms. $$$$$ - Le Sigh.
• The difficulty Oliver is having, possibly with his vision and/or with Canine Cognitive Disorder (doggy alzheimers), as he runs blindly into fences and walls, gets stuck in closets and bathrooms, and wanders about like a little lost soul. On the day we moved, when the dogs were released from the room where they'd been waiting while the movers filled the truck, Oliver had a full-out panic attack tearing around in distress for 45 minutes, unable to be restrained or consoled until all the critters were in the car and we were on our way. If he doesn't show improvement in a few days, we shall have our first introductions to the local vets. Meanwhile, he is happy to sleep in the crate by my bed and I keep him by my side as much as possible. And, trooper that he is, he has learned EXACTLY where the treats are kept!
• The heat. Even though it is pleasant outside, the house is like an oven! This may be the year I buy my very first air conditioner – to keep the critters comfortable, of course.
The frustrating:
• Having missed the ferry by ONE car length, despite arriving at the terminal a good hour in advance on a Thursday afternoon, and having to wait three hours with four dogs and a cat in the car! It took us eight and a half hours to get from Mission to Crofton – not a pleasant trip!
• Having Shaw forget to transfer my email service when they transferred my account, and then spending over an hour and a half being transferred, put on hold, transferred again, put on hold again, trying to get the problem corrected.
• Having the furniture company neglect to let me know the couch I ordered was discontinued, and having them send a completely different couch (but covered with the fabric I ordered) in its place. And then having to wait five days for the unsatisfactory couch to be picked up, go to their store to get the refund, and start couch shopping all over again. (And meanwhile, trying to keep Allie from clawing the one they did deliver).
• Having the appliance company deliver the washer and dryer that replaces the wrong one they sent three weeks ago, only to discover the side of the washer is all bashed in and has to be returned......so I wait another couple of weeks to be able to wash my clothes at home.
Conclusions: The good far outweigh the bad and frustrating. Soon I shall pull out the camera and begin to capture some of Charley's, Sadie's, Belle's, Oliver's, and Allie's marvelous adventures.
We are home.
Friday, June 12, 2009
Just a quick update
However, for my friends or family who are wondering why I'm not responding to emails......when Shaw closed off my account at the old house, they also cancelled my email account, even though I have Shaw internet at the new house. So...until I get this resolved, please use the email contact on the side of this blog (it is a hotmail account and unaffected by the problem).
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
From Fraser Valley to Cowichan Valley
This will be my last entry from the beautiful Fraser Valley, on the mainland of southwestern BC. Although the Big Move is not until Thursday, the cable people will be here early tomorrow morning to pick up the digital phone box and disconnect the cable and internet. And so, my next blog entry will be from our new home on Vancouver Island.
I have moved often in my life. The longest move, in terms of distance, was when I was five and my family moved from England to the west coast of Canada. The shortest move, in terms of distance, was when I was 19, and I moved from one apartment in New Westminster to another just a few blocks away. I've lived in Alberta, and in the Northwest Territories. I've lived in several communities in southwestern BC. I've lived in apartments and houses in big cities and small towns. I've lived in old homes and newer ones in suburbs and on acreages. And if one considers my summertime explorations, I've even lived with nothing but the stars for my ceiling and the forest for my walls.
But of all the places I've lived, none have delighted me as much as this five acres of heaven, with its views of mountains and valley, its trees and flowers and wildlife, its delicious sense of freedom for the dogs and myself. Here I had the opportunity to foster potbellied pigs and care for an abandoned alpaca; here I fostered a palliative old shepherd cross named Isaac, and here I helped my sweet, sweet Caleb to pass. Here I watched bears from my window, and coyotes from my pasture gate. And here I saw my Charley become a free spirit, and I welcomed Sadie and Oliver and Belle into my life and my heart.
And yet, on Thursday I shall trade the pasture walks for seawalks, the sounds of coyotes ki-yi-yi-ing for the sounds of seals barking, the cries of Northern flickers and pileated woodpeckers for the cawing and calling of seagulls.
Life is an adventure, and as the critters and I bid farewell to this precious piece of land, we step boldly and happily into a future of new sights and new sounds, of new places to explore, new discoveries to make, new friends to meet. Memories of our life here on the farm will always be cherished, old friendships will continue even though the frequency of getting together will change, and all the experiences that I have had these past few years – both those that have brought joy and those that have brought pain – are tucked away in my heart and have shaped the woman I am now and the woman I am still becoming.
And so, as I start yet another chapter of my life, I feel much like I did when I was fourteen years old backpacking the McAlester Pass in the North Cascades of Washington State, or in my mid-forties hiking the amazing mountain crest trails of Cathedral Provincial Park in BC – I am loving the experience and can't wait to see what tomorrow will bring.
Life is good.
Monday, June 8, 2009
Help Find Daniel Hughes
Here are two links to news items about Daniel, with clear pictures of him and of the bike he was riding, and further information regarding likely cycling routes.
Click on this link or copy and paste this into your browser: http://www.cbc.ca/canada/british-columbia/story/2009/06/08/bc-missing-daniel-hughes.html
And this one or copy and paste this into your browser: http://www.nsmb.com/3088-missing-rider-daniel-hughes
If you are a Vancouverite and live near these areas, please keep your eyes open while walking your dogs, cycling, or just enjoying the great outdoors, and contact the police if you have any information on Daniel's whereabouts.
Three more sleeps
With just three more sleeps until the big day (the final move to the island, with all critters and household effects), things are somewhat chaotic as I try to pack, repair, clean, tend the lawn, and keep the critters' routines as normal as possible.
The weather is cooperating - touch wood - with cooler temperatures than last week, but no rain (again, touch wood). It is near perfect weather for me - fairly sunny with a light breeze, warm enough for short sleeves but not so hot to make me lethargic.
Our main event around here has been the bears - they are plentiful this year, and very visible. I think something may have happened to the mama of triplets, spotted with the cubs a few weeks ago; we now see one or more of the cubs frolicking in the fields and gorging on the skunk cabbage and other delicacies, but no sign of mama. One of the cubs, either a large one from this year or a small one from last, appears injured - he is limping, and falls over frequently. We are trying to get help for him, but apparently the sole conservation officer responsible for checking it out is too busy elsewhere. It is worrisome.
I have not seen the three cubs together, nor even in twos, though a difference in the size of the injured one and the playful one assures me I am not just seeing the same single bear. I see one or another of the cubs at least twice a day, and the huge papa bear pays a visit every few days.
Yesterday morning, this cutie greeted me as I opened the drapes on the patio doors:
The dogs and I are enjoying halcyon days in the pasture, the dogs running and playing and rolling (and trying to reach the bear and coyote scat before I do), and I am taking pleasure in watching them. Birds are everywhere - hawks and eagles and woodpeckers, sparrows and swallows and robins and wrens. One new songster has joined us, in the trees at the top of the hill - with a clear, sweet, melodic song that I don't recognize. I have only caught a glimpse of him - smaller than a sparrow, larger than a chickadee - but was unable to identify his colours or silhouette from his perch at the very tip of a tall tree.
I saw Brazen Coyote with a female a few weeks ago, and have not seen them since, but I think they have produced kits as there is lots of coyote scat, in adult and kit sizes, on the path through the pasture.
And the pasture grasses and flowers are growing exponentially. Some days, keeping track of the dogs is a game of "Where's Waldo?"
Daisies are appearing in profusion - white in the pasture, deep yellow by the sides of the road:
The llamas next door watch us closely - I think they still search for signs of Martin. Sorry, llamas, Martin finally has a herd of his own.
Finally, I am close to getting an acceptable picture of Oliver in flowers, to complete my set of each of my dogs in the pasture. I do love photos of dogs in fields of yellow flowers!
Friday, June 5, 2009
A Tale of Ollie and Allie
Last night's Allie and Ollie exchange went something like this:
Hey, there's a cat on the floor!
Get over it. Dogs drool, Cats rule!
I jest wanna be fwiends......
Poor Oliver - it's okay, buddy, one day she'll let you close without swatting at you!
Thursday, June 4, 2009
The Kiss
A Bit of This, A Bit of That
A last round of people-or-pet health care providers and groomers, a flurry of activity with banks and businesses, a moment of panic as I think "how will I ever manage without a garage or barn or basement or attic????", numerous trips to thrift store and dump, and the endless job of packing, packing, packing – all tasks made more difficult by the extremely HOT weather that has arrived. Here on the hillside temperatures are about five degrees warmer than in the valley (or five degrees colder in winter), and yesterday when it was officially 31 in the valley, the thermometer showed 36 in my back yard. (For my American readers who are thinking "BRRRR" – we're talking Celsius, not Farenheit! Thirty-six degrees Celsius is 98.6 Farenheit. And no, I don't have air conditioning.)
But it is slowly coming together, and I am still making time for visiting with friends, walking in the pastures with the dogs, and enjoying the tremendous show of flowers in the fields and gardens.
On Monday, my friend Kate came to visit with Lady Grayce, who was adopted from Turtle Gardens. Kate's other dogs, Finn and Lucy, are also TG alumni, but they stayed home this visit.
Last time Grayce came to visit it was raining, and I promised her sunshine and a romp in the fields. This time, we had sunshine, and so we had our romp in the fields. Grayce, for all her size, is one very active dog – getting her to stay still long enough for a photoshoot was quite the challenge.
Sadie follows Grayce up the hill
Grayce runs back to check on us
Grayce keeps an eye on Charley
Grayce and Kate
Happy Grayce
Beautiful girl
Ellen brought the dogs over Tuesday night and we filled the kiddy pool to play "bobbing for wieners" in an attempt to cool them down. Eleven year old Cisco was the only one brave enough to submerge his head for the yummy treats – once he got the knack of it he hovered them down lightening fast. Ellen, Cisco could have a great career as a pool cleaner!
This morning I awoke early to the drum-drum-drumming of a woodpecker on the tree near my bedroom window. As I got up to look, I heard the familiar hahahahahah of a pileated woodpecker (the kind Woody Woodpecker is supposed to be), and caught a glimpse of him flying across the yard. In pj's and with dogs on my heels, I tried in vain to get a clear photo, but these are the best I could do.
You'll find a better one of the woodpecker in one of last year's blog entries here. Searching back through the entries, I realize I have seen Woody in March, December, and now June - which suggests he is here year round and not just passing through.
With the extreme heat, flowers are blooming and then dying quickly. A couple of days ago, I checked these white irises and they were but a swollen bud – today they are in full bloom, and I missed the yellow ones altogether:
These rhodos fascinate me - while not a particularly healthy bush, the one trunk has produced both pink and purple blossoms:
Some pansies have self seeded in strange spots – I found this lovely orange one under the picnic table, and others scattered along the path to the laundry stand:
And then there is the pasture, where the white blossoms of daisies and berries (black, straw, salmon and thimble) intermingle with the acres of yellow.
It is too hot to pack up the stuff in the attic or finish the garage, so I am hoping for cooler weather sometime in the next few days. Meanwhile, I'll just keep puttering around taking photos!


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The NHS today announced plans to introduce computers to help doctors screen for cancer. Brilliant – advice on diagnosing complex cancers from a machine that can't even tell whether it's got a virus.
Computerised Cancer ScreeningDecember 30, 2009
Mousepad for OnanistsDecember 29, 2009
I would like to thank my Belgian friend Alexandre Paternotte for sending me this photograph of a mousepad for onanists and sex-pests. It would seem that there's a piece of technology to satisfy every taste.


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Suits Season 3 Episode 12: "Yesterday's Gone" Quotes
I am pro-sexy.Mike
You are one of the three expensive things I recently purchased…Donna
We both know you're going to screw it up. I am just trying to delay that as long as possible.Donna
Harvey's life isn't on the line. Ours is.Rachel
Harvey: Then why are you so calm?
Mike: Because you've taught me enough to know it's going to be.
Get it through your head. I'm not Superman and I don't know what we're going to do.Harvey
You didn't fail. We've always been playing on borrowed time.Mike
Displaying all 7 quotes


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Red Plastic Stackable School Chair with 15.5'' Seat Height
Red Plastic Stackable School Chair with 15.5'' Seat Height is rated out of 5 by 13.
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$65.00 $21.49
Detailshttps://www.bizchair.com/YU-YCX-005-RED-GG.html Red Plastic Stackable School Chair with 15.5'' Seat Height
Item # YU-YCX-005-RED-GG
Free Shipping on 40+ of this item.
About Product
Provide seating for children in your establishment or at your daycare facility with this plastic stackable school chair! This chair is the perfect size for Preschool to Kindergarten sized children. Having young children sit in a chair that is designed for them is important in developing proper sitting habits that will last them a lifetime. This chair is made of high-impact polypropylene and is designed without the use of any metal pieces to prevent injury. Not only are these chairs designed properly, but they are lightweight so kids can feel independent by moving the chairs themselves.
Product Features
- Stacking Student Chair
- 309 lb. Static Load Capacity
- Stack Quantity: 10
- Lightweight Design
- Designed to encourage proper sitting habits
- Primary colors support early childhood development
- Red Polypropylene Plastic Shell
- Contoured One-Piece Shell
- No Metal Parts prevent injuries to small children
- Recommended for 3rd - 7th Grade Students
Product Specs
- Width 16.25"
- Depth 17.75"
- Height 26.75"
- Seat Width 13"
- Seat Depth 13.5"
- Seat Height 15.26"
- Back Width 14.5"
- Back Height From Seat 13"
- Weight Capacity 309 lbs
- Stack Quantity 10 Count
- Color Red
- Material Plastic
- Seat Material Plastic
- Back Material Plastic
- Frame Material Plastic
- Finish Red Plastic
- Back Type Low
- Style Modern
- Back Style Curved
- Base Style 4 Leg
- Suitable For Commercial Use Yes
- Kids Furniture Yes
- ANSI / BIFMA Yes
- GreenGuard Certified Yes
- Returnable Yes
- Brand Flash Furniture
- Manufacturer Part Number YU-YCX-005-RED-GG
Product Reviews
Rated 5 out of 5 by Anonymous from Perfect Chair For Me I AM 5' 1" female. i need to chair can fit me. this chair not only perfectly fit me. also very supportive to my back & comfortable to sit on. very sturdy. i could not be happier. now my back problem has been dramatically improved. it totally change my work condition. your price & shipping cost is incredibly low. lie your product & service. i would recommend to everyone. thank you.
Date published: 2014-08-19
Rated 5 out of 5 by Anonymous from Excellent Chairs! I needed sturdy chairs that will take some serious abuse from my school age children in my daycare. I have no doubt these chairs will last a very long time! They stack nicely which is great if you have limited space. Everyone who has sat in them has commented on how comfortable they are. My next purchase will be for smaller ones for my toddlers I have in care. Great buy!
Date published: 2013-08-05
Rated 5 out of 5 by Anonymous from 5 Stars Bought three of these very sturdy and colorful chairs for my grand kids (ages 7 & 9) who love them! I love them as they are stackable and out of the way when kids are not around. The 15.5 seat (with a pillow added) works well for that extra seating at the dining table when kids want to join adults.Great product!
Date published: 2016-11-28
Rated 5 out of 5 by Anonymous from Good Chairs I use these chairs for my in home preschool. They are a perfect size for the 3 to 4 year olds. The legs seem to be wider than I thought so it makes sitting at the tables a bit tighter than it used to be but it's also good because they don't tip over easily. I would recommend these to anyone looking for chairs.
Date published: 2013-08-05
Rated 5 out of 5 by Anonymous from 5 Stars We bought this chair for our granddaughter to use at the desk in her toy room in our home. Her first comment was " it is so comfortable". The chair is perfect for her.n and it was great to be able to purchase just one at a time. Thanks.
Date published: 2016-01-12
Rated 5 out of 5 by Anonymous from Wonderful Product And Quick Service Colorful, quality chairs used for a child's area in a dealership. So impressed that we ordered additional adult sized chairs to match. Customers love them! Very speedy and efficient delivery.
Date published: 2013-08-05
Rated 5 out of 5 by Anonymous from Great Quality!!! These chairs are a perfect colorful addition to our Art Class. They are bright, sturdy and very comfortable for all our students from kindergarten through 12th grade.
Date published: 2018-08-26
Rated 5 out of 5 by Anonymous from 5 Stars Love these chairs...perfect height for my youngsters, easy to clean and store. Very sturdy but not too heavy for little ones to move around. Great buy.
Date published: 2015-05-05
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text:
To the Editor:
"So Much for Those World Trade Talks" (editorial, April 21) implies that President Bush's selection of Susan C. Schwab, the deputy United States trade representative, to replace Rob Portman as trade representative signals flagging commitment to global trade talks. You underestimate Ms. Schwab's expertise.
She will come to the job highly prepared on the substance of trade policy. It is impossible to overstate how much this will matter at the bargaining table.
You underestimate Ms. Schwab's standing with trade ministers, business leaders, lawmakers and the president. For nearly 30 years, she has demonstrated that she is a thoughtful policy expert and a tough and effective negotiator who has accomplishments to show for it.
Ms. Schwab has the imprimatur of a president who takes trade seriously. You ignore the fact that Ms. Schwab has been closely involved in World Trade Organization talks and that she knows many of the key players.
As your editorial noted, some of our negotiating partners are seeking to use the Portman-Schwab transition to play down the potential of this negotiation. That is not the problem; the problem is the failure of those very same negotiators to embrace meaningful trade liberalization in the Doha Round.
Carla A. Hills Washington, April 24, 2006
The writer was United States trade representative from 1989 to 1993. The letter was also signed by Robert S. Strauss, William E. Brock, Clayton K. Yeutter, Charlene Barshefsky and Robert B. Zoellick, all former United States trade representatives.


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If you are looking for mobile hairdressers in Surrey and surrounding counties then you have come to the right place. I would love to hear from you! My preferred method of contact is by phone or text: 07939 293215
But if you wish you can email me via the contact form below.
Chloe x
Freelance Mobile Hairdresser,
Surrey & Surrounding Counties


text:
Youngho Kang | 99 Variations
The metamorphic alchemy of the camera and the mirror
Inside me, there are gods, men and women, and androgynous beings. They co-exist with my present self, and 'we' are all interrelated.
I brought a key, the camera, opened the door to the secret passage, the mirror, awakened my mythical archetypes, and lured them out into the world.
To be connected to another 'me' reflected in the mirror, with an endlessly switching spot, is a kind of communication that blurs the distinction between the image and the reality. Which, I discovered at the end of my work. Music was turned on, and I took pictures of my selves while I danced and acted. It is at such times that myself and another me in the mirror are mixed. And the clear, objective 'I' soon disappears. The subject and the object endlessly switch spots, causing the fixed identity of me to disappear.


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Polar bears are members of bear family and are mostly found in the arctic regions. They do require extreme cold climates for survival and these Polar Regions are their only habitat. Baby polar bears are born as cute and healthy youngsters. They grow in to very big size if they survive maturity. Female polar bears do give birth to the…Continue Reading→
Tag: bear
Polar Bears and Global Warming
What is global warming? It is the rise in earth's temperature due to the increasing amount of harmful pollutants in the atmosphere. Global warming has led to many problems for mankind. It has increased the earth's temperature; changes in the climate cycle, melting of arctic ice, extinction of many species etc. Polar bears are one of those species which are…Continue Reading→


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Financial Records & Local Plan
Financial Statements
A copy of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act audited financial statements are available upon request. Please contact:
Arthur Martinez, Workforce Administrator
Phone: 505-724-3636
Email Arthur Martinez
WIOA & Four Year Local Plan
The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) was signed into law on July 22, 2014, and became effective July 1, 2015. WIOA supersedes the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 and amends the Adult Education and Family Literacy Act, the Wagner-Peyser Act, and the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. WIOA is designed to help both job seekers and businesses: WIOA addresses the needs of job seekers through establishing a workforce system that helps them access employment, education, training and support services to succeed in the labor market; WIOA addresses businesses' needs by matching them to the skilled workers they need to compete in the global economy.
WIOA Local Plan Modification Approved by Local Board
As required by the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), 679.580(a), the Workforce Connection of Central New Mexico (WCCMM) has developed modifications to the WCCNM Four Year Local Plan (PDF) to achieve WIOA priorities in New Mexico's Central Region. The Public comment period was conducted from September 3, 2018 through October 2, 2018 and approved by the WCCNM Board on October 22, 2018.
WIOA 2016-2020 Four Year Plan
The Central Region's Workforce Innovation and Opportunity (WIOA) Act Four Year Plan Local Plan, Program Years 2016 to 2020 (PDF) received final approval from the New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions on April 28, 2017, and by the Central Region's Workforce Development Board on May 15, 2017, for execution of workforce development activities under the WIOA of 2014. The approved plan is now available or you can contact the:
Mid-Region Council of Governments (during normal business hours)
809 Copper Avenue NW
Albuquerque, NM 87102
Additional Information
For additional information and / or copies of the attachments please contact:
Workforce Connection of Central New Mexico
Attention: Lloyd C. Aragon, Workforce Manager
809 Copper Avenue NW
Albuquerque, NM 87102
Phone number: 505-724-3629
Email Lloyd C. Aragon


text:
Socket Preservation and Ridge Augmentation New York
Your jawbone supports the middle and lower part of your face. The roots of teeth, supports a large portion of the jawbone. The bone that surrounds the roots of the tooth is often referred to as the "socket".
To prepare for your dental implants and encourage them to fuse with your jawbone, Dr. Kissel recommends socket preservation and ridge augmentation to prevent bone resorption and create the best possible anchor for your new teeth.
How to Preserve the Socket
Your teeth sit in the boney socket which stabilize your teeth when you chew. When a tooth has been lost or extracted, this part of the jaw loses its function and within two months about 30-50% of the socket is resorbed. Socket preservation helps maintain the shape of your jaw by filling the socket with bone graft material to take the place of your tooth root. This technique retains the shape of your jawbone.
What Is Ridge Augmentation?
Ridge augmentation is an advanced bone graft technique using various materials to reconstruct a larger section of jawbone which has lost its form and function. During this procedure, Dr. Kissel will regenerate the jawbone to enable future implant placement. Dr. Kissel utilizes various bioactive bone graft materials such as stem cells and bone morphogenetic protein
Dr. Kissel reconstructs New York City patients' jawbones for both aesthetic reasons and to prepare patients for dental implant placement.
Why Are Ridge Augmentation and Socket Preservation Important?
Ridge augmentation and socket preservation are important to create the dimension of bone to house future implants. Without ridge augmentation or socket preservation you will likely experience:
- Unnatural looking indentations in your gums and jaw.
- Problems recapturing the original appearance of your mouth.
- Bone resorption that requires more extensive bone grafting if you want dental implants in the future.
As a skilled periodontist and dental implant specialist, Dr. Kissel has over twenty years of experience performing these techniques on a daily basis. It's this experience that allows him to perform skillful surgery with predictable results and minimal to no complications and service the New York City area.
For more information about socket preservation and ridge augmentation, call our office in New York City today at 212.702.9088.


text: Research Fellowship University Hospitals/Cleveland Medical CenterDate Posted: September 4, 2019University Hospitals Research in Surgical Outcomes and Effectiveness (RISES) Center in Cleveland, OH is offering a fully funded two-year onsite research fellowship in the field of colon and rectal surgery starting in July 2020. The UH RISES Research Fellow will spend two years conducting surgical outcomes and health sciences research with faculty and residents as part of the outcomes center at University Hospitals. Opportunities also exist for participation in diversity and educational research initiatives. The fellowship consists of practical training in advanced research skills in a large tertiary healthcare center and academic environment. Clinical care is not part of the fellowship program, but there is considerable contact with clinicians. The fellow will receive training and gain experience in study design and methodology, statistical analyses, abstract and manuscript presentation, and career development training. Resources and benefits include personalized mentorship, statistical support along with access to large databases and analyses, and administrative support Qualifications Eligible candidates must hold an MD/DO degree and should have completed at least 2 years of surgical residency training. Prior outcomes and research experience is strongly preferred. This opportunity is ideal for a PGY2/PGY3 seeking research experience prior to applying for a colon and rectal surgery residency. How To ApplyInterested applicants should send (1) a letter of intent/cover letter, (2) CV, and (3) at least two letters of recommendation to UH RISES Associate Director, Bridget Patrick (email@example.com).Apply Now↑ Return to Listings


text:
VC-7 Pro Hardwired Camera Detector
Every order gets free ground shipping (about 3-5 days). 2-day and overnight are available at checkout.
Our entire team is located in Dallas, TX. Get advice and lifetime tech support from our experts.
We know you're keeping this a secret. Orders come in a plain envelope or box that can't be traced back to SpyGuy.
Product overview
- Only finds cameras with a cable
- Great for finding CCTV security cameras
The Professional Version For Detectives
There are many types of cameras that don't send wireless signals. That includes half of our hidden cameras, in addition the CCTV security cameras you see at businesses and other buildings.
Fortunately, there's another way to find those. Every video camera has an extremely small device that vibrates. The average bug detector can't find it, but the VC-7 is a professional tool that can.This means that any camera in use can be found this the VC-7.
How To Use It:Simply turn it on, walk around a room, and check to see if the indicator lights come on. If they do, it's found a camera, and it'll help you pinpoint where that camera is.
The only thing you need to remember beforehand is to turn off any nearby television. TVs have this same vibrating component, which can mess with your results. Because of this you can actually learn how to use the VC-7 correctly by using it on your television.
This Detects:
- Anything with a camera inside it
- Cameras that a regular detector can't find
What's In The Box
- VC-7 Pro Hardwired Camera Detector
- 9-volt battery
- Instruction manual
- Reviews
- Questions
VC-7 Pro Hardwired Camera Detector
It is a great product. I like it so far.
VC-7 Pro Hardwired Camera Detector
Works great!
VC-7 Pro Hardwired Camera Detector
Haven't found any hidden cameras, but I tested this with my works cctv system and it picked up all the cameras just like described.
VC-7 Pro Hardwired Camera Detector
good product thanks


text:
In the past year, I've been invited to more listening parties than ever before, and by far the best room for such an experience, I've found, is in Truphonic Studios. The quality of sound there is unbelievable — well, you'd believe it if you saw engineer Vlado Meller's gold records that line the walls — and that is certainly an ideal way to have a first listen. The cozy space makes for an intimate and, most importantly, memorable experience. —Kelly Rae Smith
© 2020 Charleston City Paper


text:
The basic search has changed a little bit. Now, instead of selecting "By Subjects" or "By Titles" for every search, instead it will always respect your default setting (set in My Preferences), and provide the option to switch between Segments and Titles using the Formats filter on Search Result page. Additionally, "Series" has been added as an extra option.
We have also added a new preference option called "All Metadata", which returns Segments, Titles, and Series in one consolidated results list. You can select this default option by visiting the My Films link, on the upper right-hand corner of the platform, and selecting My Account Settings. From there, select your "Default Search Type". Note: you must be logged into a User Account to access My Films.
Search By Transcript has been relocated to be an Advanced Search feature. To Search By Transcript, click on the Advanced Search link below the header search box. Click on the Search By dropdown and select, By Transcript.


text:
Here's a close up of the journaling - the challenge was to document your summer traditions. When I thought about what I could document - this is what came to mind. For five years now, I've gone to see Kenny Chesney in concert. It hasn't always been in a typical summer month (this year's was May) but it's the feel of summer. He puts on an awesome show and I really feel like it's summertime when I hear those summery songs - anything about the beach, flip flops, the sun! I'm ready for summer then!! This year's tour was called the Sun City Carnival Tour - how could that not be fun? :)
And this canvas I did for the newest arrival on my mom's side of the family - she made her grand entrance yesterday in the early morning hours. I can't wait to go see her - but I'll give the new mommy a break and wait until they've settled in at home!!
I've got to fun some ribbon or tulle through the top so it can be hung in her room. Her room is all yellow and green - so I hope it'll match well!
Thanks for looking!!


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Imagine following a dapper young man with intensely styled hair off the crowded streets and up a flight of stairs, the walls papered with images of handsome men in various poses. As you ascend the stairs, the faint sound of thumping music and laughter grows louder. The images are placed in order according to the rank of the individual (No. 10, No. 9 …) all the way to the top of the stairs, where you are greeted with an enormous picture of Number One with a half-smile on his lips. The stairs open up into a stylishly designed space, full of people like yourself drinking and laughing alongside their charming hosts. You are swiftly escorted to a table and and so the dream begins.
In a previous post, I broadly covered some aspects the unique love industry born out of Japan's disillusioned attitude towards romantic relationships. One of the things left out despite its prevalence in Tokyo were the host and hostess clubs. These clubs have had a long history in Japan, their predecessors being the establishments found in Yoshiwara back in the 17th century, Edo-era Japan's red-light district. At that time, female companionship could be bought for varying prices depending on the woman's rank. Was she merely a prostitute, to be displayed in the front windows of a brothel, or was she a high-ranking courtesan, performing her arts of entertainment for high prices behind closed curtains?
Of course, things are vastly different now than they were in the Edo Japan – prostitution is definitely illegal, for one thing – but the idea of paid companionship persists. As mentioned in the previous post, Japan's dating, marriage, and birth rates are currently stuck at an all-time low. Many young people aren't seeing the point in getting involved in any sort of romantic relationship, often because it can interfere with their success at work or school. But a lack of desire to engage in an official relationship doesn't necessarily mean that people don't want some sort of companionship.
Enter the host and hostess clubs of Japan. At these clubs, your average men and women suspend their daily lives for a night to pay for glamour and illusion. There are some differences between host and hostess clubs but in both these establishments, the workers essentially provide a boyfriend/girlfriend experience without the so-called complications of an actual relationship. They will flirt with and listen to their customers, pouring alcohol and serving snacks and generally creating a comfortable atmosphere of fun. That is, until it's time for the bill to be paid and for the club to close. In this video by VICE that follows the life of a popular host, we can see that there are strict rules for closing and paying after all the fun is had.
The customers who enter these clubs are more than aware of what they're getting into and most of the time they don't expect anything beyond the evening of fantasy. They certainly know that the hosts and hostesses entertaining them aren't exactly being genuine but this doesn't stop the customers from trying to win their favor with money or expensive gifts. Hosts/hostesses rely on repeat business so it mostly falls on them – not the club – to establish a memorable relationship with their customers, which might mean accepting customer's advances to build a better client base. So while the clubs' services technically don't extend beyond good conversation and entertainment, it's not unheard of for a host/hostess to create such an enchanting persona that the customer tries and further the relationship beyond the club and into the bedroom.
This practice of taking a host-customer relationship to the next level is gradually growing more accepted, especially among hostesses who vie for ways to supplement their relatively high wages, as described in this The New York Times article. It's not quite prostitution, which is prohibited, but nor is it entirely aboveground. These kinds of relationships toe the line between the open and the illicit. With increasing frequency, people in Japan are turning to these forms of companionship as opposed to actually pursuing lasting bonds, as evinced by the plummeting rates of marriage.
Another short video by VICE gives a glimpse into the commodification of the Japanese love industry, revealing that for many these developments are a positive thing. Serious relationships would simply be a bother to them at this time. When they go to a host or hostess, they're sure that someone will be there to listen to their woes after a tough workday without interruption. After all, that's what they're paying for.


text:
I wrote this contract.
Not to prove that life is about pain and oppression
A spiral of confusion and contradictions
I wrote this contract…
To co-create a "dream" larger than smallness of mind
Where simplicity invites the great guest of gratitude.
I wrote this contract
To laugh with-not in the face of- Life
Over the lunacies of perceived importance- starting with self.
I wrote this contract
So that as my bloody feet climb the rubble of broken bits…
…perceived traumas and dramas and oh- disappointments
to the great height of the "story" erected, by me-
I find only that I am closer to YOU.
If it was all handed to me. If it were easy-
The greatest generosities of this human life- the ones delivered through thin air-
could not have been received.
The gift is given in the true surrendered prayer.