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Home Business Law California Alameda
Alameda Business Lawyers
Joshua Haevernick
San Francisco, CA Business Law Attorney with 6 years of experience
(415) 984-9637	2 Embarcadero Center
San Francisco,	CA 94111
Josh Haevernick's practice focuses on general commercial litigation matters. He has been involved in litigation in state and federal courts on a range of matters including design and construction defects, suretyship issues, professional negligence, and breach of contact.
Josh is experienced in all aspects of litigation including drafting motions and pleadings, conducting discovery, conducting depositions, and preparing for trials.
While in law school, Josh served as a judicial extern to the Honorable Marc Gross of the Los Angeles Superior Court and as the Comments & Articles Editor of the UCLA Journal of International Law and Foreign Affairs.
Val D. Hornstein Esq.
San Francisco, CA Business Law Lawyer with 37 years of experience
(415) 454-1490	235 Pine Street
Free ConsultationBusiness, Arbitration & Mediation, IP and Securities
Hornstein Law Offices, Prof. Corp. is a 20-year old California-based law firm concentrating in business, securities, intellectual property and related transactions and litigation. We have served clients across the country and in abroad. Our client base ranges from individuals. start-up companies to multi-national corporations in all fields of business. Mr. Hornstein has been in practice for 30-years. Prior to HLO, he was with large international law firms and in-house corporate counsel. Please call to discuss any questions in these areas.
Nicolas De Lancie
Justin John Glyer
(415) 506-4889	534 Pacific Avenue, Suite 202
Business, Communications, Entertainment & Sports and IP
Justin Glyer's practice focuses on media, entertainment, marketing, technology and commercial contracts, start-ups, copyright, trademark, content, internet, communications, privacy and general business law.
Mr. Glyer has conducted successful negotiations with digital media start-ups, artists, producers, movie studios, television networks, promoters, talent agencies, multi-channel internet distributors, record labels, publishers, software developers, internet service providers, social media companies, business development professionals, accounting firms, public speakers, job recruiters, universities and academics, advertisers, marketing, telecommunications and technology companies, insurance carriers and a wide range of other individuals and businesses from the very small to the Fortune 500.
As a long-time former business and legal...
Richard A. Rogan
San Francisco, CA Business Law Attorney with 47 years of experience
Business, Bankruptcy and Real Estate
I am a California Business attorney, with extensive experience in Bankruptcy and Insolvency for financial institutions. My practice encompasses banking, commercial law, corporate governance, financial transactions, real estate, and trust disputes.
For over 45 years, I have provided skilled counsel and advocacy for an array of complex legal needs. I am dedicated to exceptional representation focused on the best possible results.
Ashley Talbot Dean
San Francsico, CA Business Law Attorney with 9 years of experience
(415) 328-2797	720 Bay St
San Francsico,	CA 94109
Free ConsultationBusiness, Divorce, Estate Planning and Family
Ashley is founder of Talbot Law Firm. As an attorney in the firm's emerging business practice, Ashley counsels startups with incorporation, early stage financing, employment issues, intellectual property protection, technology licensing, commercial partnerships and various other corporate transactions. Ashley believes that understanding a company's vision and priorities is important to devising strategies to solve legal problems so companies can focus on their goals. Ashley has nearly 3 years in-house experience representing entrepreneurs in a wide range of corporate, commercial and intellectual property matters. Ashley received a J.D. from University of San Francisco School of Law and a B.A. in...
Inna Brady
San Francisco, CA Business Law Lawyer with 5 years of experience
Free ConsultationBusiness and Employment
Janelle J. Smith
Berkeley, CA Business Law Attorney with 10 years of experience
(510) 398-0733	1808 Sixth Street
Berkeley,	CA 94710
I help clients with their employment, business, and start-up needs. I also represent clients involved in civil litigation. Please contact me to find out how I can help you with your legal needs.
Mr. Ronnie R Gipson Jr
(415) 432-4565	201 Mission Street
Business, IP and Insurance Defense
Jonathan C. Lee
(415) 685-0813	1 Market St
Business, Estate Planning, Probate and Tax
Dena M. Roche
San Francisco, CA Business Law Attorney
Business, Consumer and Employment
Karl Stephen Kronenberger
(415) 955-1155	150 Post Street
Univ of Cincinnati COL
Karl Kronenberger is a partner in the San Francisco law firm of Kronenberger Rosenfeld, LLP. He is an intellectual property litigator and transactional attorney, and his sole and exclusive focus is on Internet, media and e-commerce disputes and transactions. Karl has spoken as an Internet law expert on national television news programs such as MSNBC and ABC News, and he has appeared on various industry panels.
Lisa Jane Espada
(415) 504-6195	71 Stevenson St.
Free ConsultationBusiness, Bankruptcy and Consumer
San Francisco Bay Area law firm specializing in bankruptcy and consumer law, including FDCPA and debt collection defense.
Mark Tad Malachowski
(415) 983-0717	870 Market Street
Business, Employment, Estate Planning and Probate
Northwestern Cal Univ of Law
Founded by Mark Malachowski, the Law Office of Malachowski and Associates provides legal services to clients in San Francisco, Silicon Valley and the greater Bay Area. Our office recognizes that lives and fortunes hang in the balance when a client seeks our services, so we strive to work closely with you to develop an individually designed action plan to achieve your goals. Mr. Malachowski has a wide breadth of education and experience apart from his Juris Doctorate in Law and his legal counsel and litigation work for businesses, investors and individuals. With his Bachelor's and Master's Degrees in Science...
Drexel Andrew Bradshaw
(415) 433-4800	1388 Sutter Street
Free ConsultationBusiness, Divorce, IP and Real Estate
St. Thomas University
Harry G. Lewis
(415) 625-5126	351 California St
Business, Employment and Immigration
Harry G. Lewis is an accomplished Employment, Immigration and Business Law attorney with extensive trial experience. He represents private and public companies, non-profits, public agencies and individuals throughout California.
Harry partners with clients to find creative strategies that address their complex legal needs. He has an uncompromising dedication to excellence, providing attentive service and skilled advocacy, always focused on achieving the best possible results.
Harry received his B.A. from the University of Virginia. In 1991, he earned his J.D. from William & Mary Law School. Harry is active in the community, including serving on the Board of Directors for the Marin Humane...
Jason Austin Joseph Lundberg
(415) 404-6395	655 Montgomery Street
Free ConsultationBusiness, Asbestos, Employment and Insurance Claims
Loren Kieve
(415) 364-0060	2655 Steiner St
Business and Appeals
Univ of New Mexico School of Law
Loren Kieve has a demonstrated record of success in resolving challenging, high stakes disputes. He has represented and advised major U.S. and foreign companies and individuals in a broad variety of trials, appeals and settlements, including securities, insurance coverage, construction, environmental, derivative, financial services, commodities trading, antitrust, contract, RICO, insurance sales practices, products liability, defamation, personal injury, employment, discrimination, real estate, mine disaster, Foreign Corrupt Practices Act and other commercial cases.
His cases have involved complex foreign parties and issues, major government contract matters, including civil and criminal false claims act cases, and formal and informal administrative proceedings and...
(415) 795-4070	870 Market Street, Suite 985
Business, Communications and IP
Patrick Gunn
San Francisco, CA Business Law Lawyer
(415) 693-2070	101 California Street
Marnie Cherie Lambert Esq
(888) 203-7833	One Embarcadero Center
Free ConsultationBusiness, Arbitration & Mediation, Securities and Stockbroker Fraud
Marnie C. Lambert, the founding member of Lambert Law Firm, LLC, is licensed to practice law in all state courts and federal district courts in Ohio and California. She has spent most of her legal career representing consumers in complex civil litigation, commercial litigation, securities litigation and class actions. She has also represented clients seeking recovery for personal injuries, wrongful death and various business torts. Ms. Lambert received her juris doctorate from Pepperdine University School of Law in 1992. She spent the first five years after law school working in Los Angeles, California for a large international law firm....
James Neudecker
Vadim R. Alden
Business, Arbitration & Mediation, Employment and Products Liability
Santa Clara Univ School of Law
Vadim Alden is an experienced and skilled attorney specializing in litigation, business transactions, and employment law. Vadim represents a broad spectrum of clients in state and federal courts in contractual and employment disputes, personal injury, construction, and collection matters. In addition to his proven litigation experience, Vadim also practices in the area of corporate and business transactions. He serves as general counsel to several established and emerging companies in the Bay Area. For these companies, Vadim provides legal counsel in the areas of business entity creation, contract negotiation and formation, executive compensation, employment and labor law, intellectual property and general risk...
Laura Young
Business, IP and International
UC Berkeley School of Law Boalt Hall
Phi Alpha Theta. Author: "Intellectual Property, Employment and Human Resource Law" articles in Publications such as National Law Journal, East Asian Executive Reports and Pearson's China Law for Business. Author: CCH's "Taiwan Employment Laws," 2002 and CCH's "China STAFF Employment Law Guide, Taiwan." Columnist, West Publishing's "International HR Journal," 1997-2001. Editorial Advisor, CCH's China Law Update, 2002-. Speaker and Lecturer: California State Bar Association conferences, International Anti-Counterfeiting Coalition conferences, Bar Association of San Francisco Seminars, ABA conferences, Practicing Law Institute seminars, American Electronics Association conferences, International Trademark Association conferences and Harvard-Asia Business Conference. Member, Board of Directors, 1995-2000 and Treasurer,...
(415) 278-1400	625 Market St
Business, Appeals and Employment
Robert Ted Parker
(415) 412-1615	One Sansome St. #3500
Business, Agricultural, Communications and IP
Ted Parker is a business trial lawyer with extensive experience in a broad range of industries: securities, IP and e-commerce, construction, products liability, agriculture and food products, film and publishing. After graduation from Cornell Law School, he began practice in business law at Brobeck, Phleger & Harrison in San Francisco. He was the first corporate counsel at ITEL Corporation. More recently, he has practiced as a large-firm partner (K&L Gates) and a small-firm partner (Berg & Parker), and now operates a "virtual" law firm, collaborating with colleagues electronically. He has handled major litigation nationally and internationally,...
Thomas S Wrobel
Free ConsultationBusiness, Elder, Estate Planning and Probate
The Ohio State University Michael E. Moritz College of Law
I am a client-focused attorney with expertise in estate and tax planning, nonprofit and philanthropy, and real estate law.
My practice, T.S. Wrobel Law Group, focuses on Estate Planning, Probate, Exempt Organization Law, and Business Law services. We work directly with clients to protect their assets and legacy, and offer resources through our websites TSWrobel.Law and NonProfitLegalCenter.com to provide information and support to nonprofits and private family foundations on purpose, strategic fundraising, board structure, budget and operational issues.
Over the years, we've supported more than 1,600 nonprofits, private family foundations, and international NGOs across 50 states, including organizations such as...
Adam Glen Slote
(415) 393-8001	1 Embarcadero Center, Suite 400
Business and Administrative
ADAM G. SLOTE practices in the areas of administrative law (professional licensing), litigation and business law. He has been in practice since 1988. Adam opened his own practice in 1992 with the goal of utilizing technology to provide high-quality legal services efficiently and cost-effectively. LICENSE LAW (ADMINISTRATIVE LAW) - Adam has defended professionals and businesses in administrative law/licensing law cases since 1991. His licensing practice is state wide. He has extensive experience in hearings before the California Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH) as well as experience filing Appeals/Writs of Administrative Mandamus (Mandate) to the Superior Court of California and to...
Guy O. Kornblum
(415) 440-7800	1388 Sutter St., Ste. 805
Free ConsultationBusiness, Insurance Claims, Medical Malpractice and Personal Injury
GUY O. KORNBLUM is the principal in Guy O. Kornblum, A Professional Law Corporation, with offices in San Francisco and San Ramon, California He has specialized as a trial and appellate lawyer for over 45 years. The firm specializes in a wide range of civil litigation, including serious injury and wrongful death, financial and physical elder abuse, and all aspects of insurance including "bad faith" claims. Mr. Kornblum himself has handled over 4000 litigated matters to conclusion and has several million dollar plus cases to his credit. He has represented hundreds of clients, small businesses, individuals,...
Paul M. LaMartina
University of Miami School of Law and Santa Clara University School of Law
Ryan Nori
(415) 797-7266	36th Floor
One Market
www.ryannori.com
David Michael Syme
(415) 409-8049	388 Market St.
Business, Real Estate and Securities
Daniel L. Quinley
Business, Energy and Environmental
University of California, Davis, School of Law
Jin H. Kim
(415) 217-7300	100 Pine St
Jin H. Kim is a skilled and knowledgeable Attorney at Sparer Law Group. Her practice areas include a variety of Business, Securities, and Real Estate Law matters. Ms. Kim has more than a dozen years of experience advocating for clients with legal needs. She is committed to providing the highest quality legal representation.
Ms. Kim received a B.A. and M.A. from the University of California, Berkeley. In 1999, she obtained her J.D. from the University of California, Berkeley School of Law. Ms. Kim is a member of the State Bar of California.
Louis Lehot
(650) 796-7280	555 California St STE
Louis Lehot is a partner and business lawyer with Foley & Lardner LLP, based in the firm's Silicon Valley, San Francisco and Los Angeles offices, where he is a member of the Private Equity & Venture Capital, M&A and Transactions Practices as well as the Technology, Health Care, Life Sciences and Energy Industry Teams. Louis focuses his practice on advising entrepreneurs and their management teams, investors and financial advisors at all stages of growth, from garage to global. Louis especially enjoys being able to help his clients achieve hyper-growth, go public and to successfully obtain optimal liquidity events. To assist his...
Valerie Kraml
2625 Alcatraz Ave
Free ConsultationBusiness, Appeals, Estate Planning and Family
Business, Administrative, Energy and Environmental
Carl E. Kadlic
(415) 982-4000	555 Montgomery St
Business, Civil Rights, IP and Real Estate
Michael D. Larsen
Business, International, Securities and Tax
I have always been interested in European history and languages. I lived in France for four years before returning to the Bay Area to set up my law practice. I often work with people in the Bay Area who have family or assets in France.
David Herman Schwartz
(415) 975-2838	1 Market Street, Suite 1600
Steuart Tower
University of California, Hastings College of Law
I have been representing individuals and small and medium businesses in complex litigation matters for over 35 years. Litigation is always an expensive undertaking, but with careful attention to the client's objectives and clear analysis of the litigation issues, I have been able to achieve significant results and positive economic benefits without extravagant cost to my clients.
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The Oyez Lawyer Directory contains lawyers who have claimed their profiles and are actively seeking clients. Find more Alameda Business Lawyers in the Justia Legal Services and Lawyers Directory which includes profiles of more than one million lawyers licensed to practice in the United States, in addition to profiles of legal aid, pro bono and legal service organizations.


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The Lumber Room: Unimagined Treasures by Mark Hearld | All things considered.
Prior to the reopening of York Art Gallery in 2015, Mark Hearld spent two years visiting the stores of the Yorkshire Museum and York Castle Museum as well as the Gallery researching the objects and artworks to include in his curated exhibition, The Lumber Room: Unimagined Treasures, which engaged visitors from August 2015 until May 2017.
His choices included pottery, costume, oil paintings, works on paper, furniture, and taxidermy, many items of which had not been on public display before.
Alongside these were new works that Mark has created especially for the show which is inspired by the collections.
The exhibition is influenced by a short story called The Lumber Room, by Saki, which was read to him in an English class when he was 15.
The exhibition closed early May 2017, but we're delighted to publish this Random Spectacular journal which records and celebrates the spirit of Mark's curation and creation with contributions from Emily Sutton, Chloë Cheese, Alan Powers, Jonathan Gibbs, Angie Lewin, John Andrews and many more.


Inder Loves Folk Art: November.
Happy November! For me, that means a new billable year at work and the chance to relax a little bit after the most hectic month of the year. Of course, there is still work to do, but some of the pressure is off. Whew!
But it also means I can no longer argue with the changing seasons. Let's just get it out there: I'm not a Winter person. Blech. There isn't much romance in wet, dreary Bay Area winters.
The end of daylight savings is tomorrow, which means that for the next couple of months it will be pitch dark when I get home from work.
And we're already freezing our rears off in our high-ceilinged, uninsulated, underheated Victorian house. Seriously, I would not be surprised to learn that in 1896, Oakland homes were constructed from balsa wood. I swear I can feel the wind coming through the walls. Although our winters are very mild, the inside of our house is usually about the same temperature as outside, and our mild winters are not nearly mild enough for that!
We have been holding out and have not turned the heater on yet, because (a) it costs approximately one million dollars a month to operate; and (b) it doesn't actually warm the house up that much. But I don't know how much longer we'll be able to stand wearing hats and gloves in the house.
But. At least we don't have to shovel snow or try to extricate our cars from three inches of ice every morning.
Joe's rocking his fleece footie sleepers now.
Yes, he bonked himself in the eye. It's almost healed up now.
I've been overflowing with sewing inspiration lately but not actually sewing. You know how that goes. I may be suffering from idea-overload. I have fun projects in the works for me, and I also want to make Joe some really cozy clothes for our cold house.
I also want to make Joe some really warm fleecy slippers. Everyone in this house needs slippers: socks don't quite cut it here, what with the draft that seems to seep through the floor. The slippers that Target sells are cheap and ugly and I know I could do better. For that project I've been eyeing this tutorial from Folkhaven. I was thinking I could probably find an old, ugly fleece at the thrift store that would be perfect for some recycling (have I mentioned that the word "upcycle" bugs me? I can't approve of all of these new words the youngins keep making up). Sewing For Boys also has a great sweatshirt-style pullover pattern, so I'll need a men's large!
Speaking of sweatshirts, I could use your thoughts: Here's a lovely, warm, shearling lined hoodie of Joe's. The zipper is broken and I ripped it out. Should I replace it? Or should I do a refashion and make it a pullover like this? Ideas?
Excuse the dog hair. That's par for the course in this house.
That's it as far as craft news! My fingers are frozen just typing all of this out! Have a great weekend, everyone!
OMG I love that owl fabric!! Must resist urge to buy...Elena loves owls too :) I can't promise I won't buy it :D Can't wait to see what you do with it! How much room is in the hoodie with Joe in it? If it has enough to make it into a pullover that would be so cool! I'd worry if there'd not be enough room and then you get a sweater you can wear for like 2 days before he outgrows it.
Also, Joe looks so cute in his footie pjs...and the word upcycle really bugs me too.
Ooh, I see your Spoonflower knits have arrived! Love! Aren't they so lovely and soft and a great weight? I know what you mean about 'so many ideas' and hard to get started. I had to just launch into churning out t-shirts this weekend so I don't just end up with an overflowing fabric stash and me frozen in Libran indecision.
Hmm, busted zip... I've never attempted replacing one. Maybe yes, if it looks easy to get at and replace. That re-fashion looks cool but possibly a bigger job. And I don't think I've ever willingly used 'upcycle' either. I mean, it sort of has a specific meaning now, but recycle is probably just as good. I also have an aversion to 'vintage' since it's now applied willy-nilly to anything older than yesterday to make it sound cool. 'Second-hand' or just plain 'old', anyone?
First of all, you ladies crack me up (in a good way): I have found my sisterhood of grammar/syntax police! Love it.
To answer your questions: The hoodie fits Joe now, and he's growing up and not out, so I am torn. Replacing the zip could work (I might give it over to my local alterations people to do a great job) but a refashion could work too. And the thing is, if I put a hoodie on Joe, I am likely to zip it up - otherwise, he takes it off! So. Hrm.
Folkhaven: Don't be sorry! I'm in the minority here! It's me against Etsy; a futile battle. Haha.
Jane: I'm totally guilty of "vintage." By which I mean, "old and cute," of course. There's no hard and fast age limit.
I feel you on your thoughts about winter...winter solstice cannot get here soon enough. The lack of daylight just about kills me every year!
On a more positive note - your new fabrics are freaking adorable and I can't wait to see what you make with them!


hello, check out our Video FAQ.
I have a really cool idea for a video and want Sketch Post to animate it. How does this work?
We will work with you to create an engaging and powerful script (120 words/ minute, e.g. 240 words for a 2 minute video).
See your words come to life when we visualise your ideas.
Choose from our library of professional voice over talents.
Select the best music for your viewers to groove to.
We combine all the elements into a rough cut.
We will provide the format you need for the final animation!
Our animation process takes 4 to 8 weeks depending on length and content complexity.
What is the difference between Pre-Animation & Animation?
Pre-Animation is a guide animation to check the script and the story flow.
We will use a temporary guide voice over (VO) & music.
Pre-Animation Video is created with video editing software, and produced in limited detail.
It serves as a guide for our animator.
Animation is the final output, it is created with powerful animation software, so all motion & effects will be added at this stage.
Final music & professional VO will be included.
So how much do I need to invest for Sketch Post's services?
Please get in touch with us in the form below. Tell us more about your project (duration, completion date etc.) so we can provide a customised quote for you.
If you have a project in mind or simply curious about us, tell us more!
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text:
Q: Unable to evaluate expression because the code is optimized or a native frame is on top of the call stack if (!advertismentsDao.AdvertisementUrlExist(ad.Url))
{
    if (!advertismentsDao.AdvertisementExist(ad.Price,
                                             ad.HollidayDuration,
                                             ad.Name,
                                             ad.Description,
                                             ad.City,
                                             ad.Area,
                                             ad.Country,
                                             ad.Agency))
    {
       advertismentsDao.Save(ad);
       advertismentsDao.CommitChanges();
    }
}

gives me:

InnerException = Unable to evaluate
  expression because the code is
  optimized or a native frame is on top
  of the call stack.

error is wheren i got here CommitChanges(). I google but i can not solve my problem

A: I suspect that's not actually the inner exception - I suspect that's just what the debugger's showing you when you try to inspect the exception.
Dump a complete stack trace to a log instead, and that should give the real exception, which should then make it clear why the commit failed.

A: It is caused due to ThreadAbortException .. Just use the below code at the end of your code block . It might solve your problem .
/*

 catch (System.Threading.ThreadAbortException)
 { }

*/

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


waffy's articles: Na my papa money!
Na so I just dey mind my business wey my friend come call me, dey complain say all im friends dey travel go abroad dey go continue education, meanwhile, as im papa no fit afford am, na there im go dey. Me, I pity am sha, no be im fault, how im papa suppose find dat kind money? Only the visa runs self go empty the family savings talk less of ticket money! Na so the papa almost kill am self wey im mention all the things wey im suppose do. So na Abraka im go siddon, and even self, after im finish with dat im abraka degree, na who go employ am wey senator pikin go land with UCLA degree? Ehen, who you think say dem go choose? This degree matter no be small thing oh.
The system we have today is ensuring that the children of the wealthy will probably be your rulers and leaders tomorrow. Yes. You know that annoying guy that plays music at all hours, drinks champagne and cruises around your neighborhood with no apparent destination? Yep. He would probably be one of your leaders. For the simple fact that he is better qualified on papers, forget about character, all we care about is your "degree"….and you know that hard working boy, so neat, so polite, looks like he could be a great leader….you know him? Unfortunately, he will probably be the driver, cleaner, washer man or cook of the rich man. Your new leader.
Of course, the wealthy will always have the means for education, and why shouldn't they? After all, they can afford it. Yes, they should have education, but so should the poor man too. Should the rich man have a better education than the poor man? The answer is NO. We need to make a conscious effort in Nigeria to ensure that all children, no matter their economic back ground or gender, are able to get quality education. Now, if the rich man wants all the other "jaras" a school can offer, then by all means, let him have it, but let there be a general standard for all schools so the poor man can compete with the only natural resource that has not yet been taken from him, his brains.
Meanwhile, no be everybody wey go school for obodo oyibo na im know book oh! Some of dem no even know wetin carry dem go dat side self. Apart from all those their big big English, dem fit still be serious agbekpo.
P.S: Una don find dat plane? Shebi na the same question I ask una last week? Fear dey catch me for dis our country oh, so na so plane fit lost for air? Tufiakwa!


text:
Michael L. Betsch
Planned Parenthood's 'attack arm' targets pro-life candidates
By Michael L. Betsch, posted June 24, 2002 in
WASHINGTON (BP)--If this year's Republican primary for Illinois governor was any indication, pro-life candidates across the nation can expect an onslaught of media attacks from the political action committees affiliated with the pro-abortion Planned Parenthood Federation of America, CNSNews.com reported.
Homosexual group targets schools for 'Day of Silence' campaign
By Michael L. Betsch, posted April 8, 2002 in
WASHINGTON (BP)--School kids across America may have their first encounter with homosexuality April 10 and there's little parents or teachers can to do stop it from happening, CNSNews.com reported April 8.
Upward Basketball now in 35 states
By Michael L. Betsch, posted March 12, 2002 in Tech & Entertainment
WASHINGTON (BP)--Young athletes across the country are taking their game to a higher level with a Christian-based ministry that uses basketball as a tool to spread the gospel. And while this private youth league for kids in grades one through six claims to be multi-faith, the Christian message is central.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


Berkshire Community Land Trust, Inc.
Appropriately conserve the ecological resources of the land.
To acquire by purchase, gift, devise, bequeath, lease, or otherwise to own, hold, use, maintain, improve, operate, sell, lease and otherwise dispose of real and personal property, and to do everything necessary and proper to conduct for such purposes, including the power to borrow funds, to mortgage, and to make, accept, endorse, execute, and issue bonds, debentures and promissory notes.
To accept gifts and money, securities and personal and real property from any firm, person, corporation, trust, association, organization or agency, of any kind and nature, public governmental or private, to invest and reinvest the funds of the corporation, to borrow money and issue evidences of indebtedness, therefore, and to secure the same by mortgage, pledge or otherwise.
Membership and its rights are defined in the Bylaws of the corporation.
No part of the net earnings of the corporation shall inure to the benefit of, or be distributable to, its members, trustees, officers or other private persons, except that the corporation shall be authorized and empowered to pay reasonable compensation for services rendered and to make payments and distributions in furtherance of the purposes set forth in Article II hereof. And no director or officer of the corporation or any private individual shall be entitled to share in the distribution of any of the corporate assets on dissolution of the corporation.
No part of the activities of the corporation shall be the carrying on of propaganda, or otherwise attempting to influence legislation, or participating in, or intervening in (including the publication or distribution of statements), any political campaign on behalf of any candidate for public office. The corporation shall neither have nor exercise any power nor shall it engage directly or indirectly in any activity that would invalidate its status as a corporation which is exempt from Federal taxation as an organization described in section 501 (c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1954, as amended (hereinafter referred to as the "Code") or any corresponding provisions of any subsequent Federal tax laws, or as a corporation, contributions to which are deductible under section 170 (c)(2) of the Code or any corresponding provisions of any subsequent Federal tax laws.
The corporation shall not make any taxable expenditure as defined in section 4945 (d) of the Code, or corresponding provisions of any subsequent federal tax laws.
Dissolution of the corporation and distribution of its assets shall be conducted in accordance with the provisions of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Assets received by the Corporation in furtherance of its purposes shall, in case of dissolution, be transferred or conveyed to one or more corporations, societies, or organizations engaged in activities substantially similar to those of this corporation, and which have qualified as organizations described in Section 501 (c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1954 as amended.
In the carrying out of its activities, the organization will not discriminate in any way on the basis of race, religion, age, or gender.
The Bylaws of the corporation have been duly adopted and the initial directors, president, treasurer and clerk or other presiding, financial or recording officers, whose names are set out on the following page, have been duly elected.
The effective date of organization of the corporation shall be the date approved and filed by the Secretary of the Commonwealth.


It sounds so simple and so trendy. "The Eat-Clean Diet is a lifestyle way of eating that allows you to eat more, weigh less, and become the healthiest you can be," says Tosca Reno, author of The Eat-Clean Diet series.
Not only will you lose about 3 pounds a week, you will see dramatic changes in the way you look and feel, Reno says.
Reno says that eating clean encourages a lifestyle approach of exercise and a diet plan of unprocessed, whole foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean meats, and no artificial ingredients, preservatives, "chemically charged foods," sugars, saturated fat, and trans fat.
That means tomatoes are in, ketchup is out. "We live in a chemical soup experiment. Processed foods have undermined our health, especially sugars, which are deadly anti-foods that have no place in our body," Reno says.
Plans range from 1,200-1,800 calories, eaten in 5-6 small meals throughout the day -- designed to "fire up the metabolism." Practicing portion control helps dieters avoid the dreaded calorie counting.
The Eat-Clean Diet is a beautiful book with lots of pictures of delicious-sounding recipes with nutrition information, glossy pictures, sample meal plans, grocery lists, and more to help dieters get excited about eating a healthy diet and engaging in more physical activity.
Written in an easy-to-understand, motivating, and reader-friendly style, Reno places the emphasis for weight loss and good health on 80% food, 10% training, and 10% genes.
Eating a diet rich in plant foods, exercising, and controlling portions is sage advice and the cornerstone of all credible diet plans. But Reno veers off the path with some of her advice that is not based on scientific evidence -- like totally eliminating saturated fat and some of her recommendations for supplements.
Foods allowed include a variety of whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, nonfat dairy, and healthy fats -- preferably organic and eaten in proper portions every few hours.
The Eat-Clean Diet recommends avoiding all saturated fat, trans fats, overprocessed, refined foods -- especially white flour, sugar, sugar-loaded colas, juices, and alcohol.
Each meal should be between 200-300 calories.
Eat a complex carbohydrate with protein (20-21 grams) at every meal.
Never miss a meal, especially breakfast.
Consume adequate healthy fats each day.
"I recommend shopping at farmers markets or when at the grocery store, stick to the perimeter and choose foods with one to three pronounceable ingredients only, staying away from any food that comes in a box or bag that man has had a hand in creating or contains ingredients you can't pronounce," Reno says.
Strict rules govern the foods allowed except a once-a-week cheat meal or treat, such as a piece of dark chocolate or glass of red wine. Reno encourages dieters to prepare their own meals at home and, when traveling, take along portable nutritious foods.
A calorie-controlled diet and regular exercise are the mainstays of the plan. Much like most successful weight loss plans, dieters are encouraged to eat wholesome foods high in fiber, along with lean protein to reduce cravings and help satisfy hunger on fewer calories.
"Starting the day with a nutritious breakfast and eating high-fiber carbs, lean protein with a little healthy fat every few hours, along with strength training can boost your metabolism and be a natural detox," Reno says.
Exercise is emphasized as an essential part of the program, including regular physical activity and weight training at least three days a week for a minimum of 30 minutes.
Follow the basic rules, use the recipes and meal plans, but skip the nutrition information and supplement advice, which is a mixed bag of fact and fiction, says American Dietetic Association spokeswoman Roberta Anding, MS, RD.
"We all know the importance of regular exercise, not skipping meals, drinking plenty of water, and a diet based on plant foods and lean, low-fat protein, but beyond that the advice is unrealistic and not necessarily healthy," says Anding, a Baylor College of Medicine nutritionist.
Studies show small amounts of alcohol can be cardio-protective and small amounts of saturated fat are unavoidable and not harmful to your health.
Diet plans that are very restrictive and have too many rules can be difficult to follow long term, Anding says.
The Eat-Clean Diet is a pure approach of healthy eating and exercise taken to the extreme. It is so structured, restrictive, and unrealistic that it may be difficult to follow long term.
Take the questionable advice peppered throughout the book with a grain of salt, as there are lots of inaccuracies that are more opinion than scientific evidence.
The best part of The Eat-Clean Diet is the motivation, nutrient-rich recipes, and meal plans that can help dieters shift toward including more healthy wholesome foods into their menus.
Roberta Anding, MS, RD, American Dietetic Association spokeswoman and director of sports nutrition, Baylor College of Medicine.
Tosca Reno, author, The Eat-Clean Diet series; columnist, Oxygen magazine.


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« My year without travel: Reflecting on the pandemic and staying close to home | Main | Cruise Around the Island of Fire and Ice »
Masked, Vaxxed, Patience Tested, A Return to Sea on Star Breeze
Look carefully at the Star Breeze and you will not see the seams where the ship was cut in half and 84 feet inserted (photo by Windstar Cruises)
St. Martin, Lesser Antilles of the Caribbean
For the first time in more than 15 months, vacationers from North America began boarding in June 2021 a small selection of cruise ships that had been activated from their slumber during the pandemic.
Among them was the 312-passenger Star Breeze that glided out of the harbor at Philipsburg, St. Maarten, bound for … maybe St. Bart's, said the captain, maybe not.
Even the captain did not know where we were going. After all these months, Covid-19 remained the phantom captain, the rascal behind the wheel. When would the old reality return? When would the virus release its watch?
Turned out that the answer was: No time soon. Our expected one-week itinerary changed nearly every day, and passengers were confined to a vacation bubble in a pandemic costume party that included masks, social distancing, and friendly yet serious enforcement. Our experience, while delightfully relaxing and comfortable aboard a spiffy ship recently enlarged and renewed, sometimes was not the carefree voyage that cruisers normally expect.
For me, the tradeoff of occasional annoyances for a return to sea was fully acceptable, but travelers who are planning to cruise or to join any other group vacations this summer should be aware that the pandemic has added stress to the experience. Restrictions are expected to improve as the calendar turns toward fall.
In the meantime, be vaccinated and be prepared to be tested and managed; to carry a mask and paperwork of testing evidence; and to be flexible.
Hiccups, we had a few
For my June trip with Windstar Cruises, vaccinations were required, and we were tested for COVID four times, once at home before we were allowed to board a plane for St. Martin. Everyone on the Star Breeze in June was an experienced traveler, aware that our cruise would have its hiccups.
We cruised, occasionally, during the next six days, for a total of 420 nautical miles (a distance, as the crow flies, between Cleveland and New York), but we never stopped at another island. We did not see St. Bart's.
The first — and last — voyage of significant distance took us past Monserrat, St. Kitts and Nevis, before we turned around and sailed back to the waters near St. Martin, where the ship lowered its aft-end water sports platform (picture below) so passengers could go for a swim.
Thereafter, we breezed in and out of St. Martin's bays, because no one else would have us — a shame, really. The newly made-over Star Breeze of Windstar Cruises is a vessel that delivers a top service staff, outstanding food, fun with water toys and (usually) isolated beaches for snorkeling and picnics, all aimed at the casual yet demanding small ship crowd.
As the pandemic moves to a close, Caribbean islands will be sending engraved invitations to this ship.
Passengers on Star Breeze dive from the ship's water sports platform near the coast of St. Martin (photo by Fran Golden, Thetravelmavens.com)
Windstar is one of several cruise lines — all with predominantly North American passenger lists — that decided to start their 2021 season outside the United States to work around confusing pandemic protocols about testing and vaccinations.
Windstar, with all six ships closed to cruisers since March 14, 2020, decided to begin with a ship in St. Martin, another in Greece — and a third soon in Tahiti. Passengers and crew would be fully vaccinated.
Unfortunately, the Star Breeze crew showed up to work at the shipyard in Europe largely unvaccinated, and Windstar was unable to purchase vaccines for the crew, even when the ship arrived in St. Martin, where the government apologized for its inability to help.
A free Cruise for all
As a result, Windstar called each passenger booked for June 19, offering them a free cruise, explaining that most of the crew was not vaccinated but had passed a series of tests and was confined to the ship (in sort of a trusted bubble), some for two months, others for two weeks. A few passengers declined, accepting a refund. The rest, extra masks packed, headed for the Caribbean.
"We decided to sail because we wanted to show off the ship," said Windstar President Chris Prelog, who was aboard for the entire cruise.
Star Breeze crew spray disinfectant at carry-on luggage in St. Martin
We were a total of 80 passengers, purposely a small group on a ship that holds 312: all fully vaccinated, all tested for COVID at home, all tested again when we arrived at the ship on Friday, again on Tuesday so St. Martin would let us go ashore (for escorted excursions only), and tested at the end of the cruise before our final docking, where we were escorted directly to the airport.
St. Martin doubled down by requiring all passengers to buy island medical insurance for $30. Windstar charged passengers about $150 for two of the COVID tests, but did not charge for the third.
Thoroughly tested — both with swabs in our noses, as well as our patience — we all wore a mask in public areas aboard Star Breeze. We were socially distanced at tables and in gatherings; we stood six feet apart at lifeboat drill. A table for four in the dining rooms became a table for two or three.
Dining chairs, as well as seats in the theater and common gathering spots, were marked with a "don't sit here" tag to achieve a proper distance. Except for whoever was in your cabin, the seat next to you was tagged.
Despite the pandemic paraphernalia, the cruise was a joyful occasion both for passengers hungry to vacation at sea and for the crew, who returned to work after more than a year of waiting for their jobs to restart.
Deck buffet on the Star Breeze, handled only by the service staff (photo by Fran Golden, TheTravelMavens.com)
Of all the places one might choose to ride out a week of the fading COVID blues, the Star Breeze is quite a bubble.
It is the first of three sister ships to leave drydock after an estimated $250 million of makeovers by Windstar Cruises. Windstar ordered the Fincantieri Shipyard in Palermo, Italy, to cut the ship in half and insert 84 feet. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OEuHPE_cLSI
The made-over Star Breeze is sleeker than it was in 2013 when Windstar bought three cruise ships from Seabourn (this one called the Seabourn Spirit) to join the line's trio of masted sailing ships.
An enlarged pool was added to the main sundeck, as well as the Star Grill which operates on the upper sundeck level beneath a shaded tarp. At lunch and dinner the Grill features such smoked barbeque items as my two favorites, a coffee-crusted prime brisket and a bourbon brined turkey breast, both from the cookbook of Steve Raichlen.
Windstar has added an outstanding new Spanish and Portuguese tapas-style restaurant, Cuadro 44 by Anthony Sasso (ate there twice, would have returned if the cruise were longer); a well-designed, expanded spa; and 50 cabins for 100 passengers.
The ship's 156 cabins have a minimum of 277 square feet, with a walk-in closet and a curtain that can be drawn to separate the sleeping and sitting areas, which is why Windstar Cruises calls each cabin a suite.
New cabins on the Star Breeze (photo by David G. Molyneaux, TheTravelMavens.com)
The newer cabins — with an improved design from the older cabins, placing the bed next to the window and sitting area closer to the door — raises the ship capacity from 212 to 312, but does not disturb the intimate, small ship feel. Star Breeze is easy for passengers to navigate; like moving around a boutique hotel, nothing seems far away from the stairwell and elevator at mid-ship.
Next to arrive from the shipyard in Italy are the sister ships, Star Legend and Star Pride, both sliced, enlarged, and renewed. Vaccinations will be required of all crew members and passengers. After the June 19-26 cruise, Star Breeze motored directly, without passengers, to San Juan where Windstar had arranged for vaccinations for the remainder of the crew on June 27. Star Breeze cruises scheduled for June 26 and July 3 were canceled. Cruises were to resume July 10 in St. Martin.
The ship sails to Barbados in August, then Aruba and Panama, and to Tahiti in September.
Upper sundeck on Star Breeze (photo by David G. Molyneaux, TheTravelMavens.com
Wearing masks and social distancing
How long will mask-wearing and distancing aboard Windstar ships continue in the Caribbean, Greece, and Tahiti? That is uncertain, said a cruise line spokesperson.
For me, the most awkward mask-wearing moments cruising on Star Breeze were at evening cocktail events, particularly when the ship's officers were introduced and mingled with passengers. While masked, holding a beverage in one hand, it was difficult but possible to lower my mask briefly with the other hand to take a sip, then replace the mask into position for conversation.
But when tasty nibbles arrived on silver trays and were offered by waiters around the room, the issue was complicated. With drink in one hand, a shrimp and napkin in the other, my mask remained in position. This predicament made conversations short, as I stood awkwardly holding drink and food with no place to enjoy either one. As the saying goes, there is no other hand.
Molyneaux, editor of TheTravelMavens.com, is former travel editor of The Plain Dealer in Cleveland. This column was published in The Plain Dealer of Cleveland, Cleveland.com, and the Napa Valley Register.
Posted by David G. Molyneaux on July 15, 2021 in Caribbean, CRUISING, Food and Drink, Luxury travel, Outdoors recreation | Permalink
Tags: Caribbean, cruising, travel, vaccinations, Windstar


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Common sense producer leads the way
A PIGGERY is New South Wales is leading the way for other producers across the globe after it successfully reduced the use of antibiotics, without compromising the health or productivity of its stock.
Livestock > Animal-health
Kristy Moroney
Australia's chief veterinary officer, Dr Mark Schipp, visited the large 2000-sow farm in Young as part of activities to mark Antibiotic Awareness Week, and said it was well known that excessive use of antibiotic treatment can lead to strains of bacteria emerging which don't respond to current antibiotic treatment—also known as antimicrobial resistance.
"Antimicrobial resistance is recognised as a growing threat to human and animal health on a global scale, and by creating awareness, we are mitigating this threat to animal welfare, biosecurity and production," Dr Schipp said.
The nation's chief veterinary officer said Australia has some the lowest levels of antibiotic use in animals, as some use is required to maintain health and welfare, which means the threat of an antibiotic resistant bacteria emerging is very real.
"In Australia, both the human and animal health sectors are collaborating with the food and agricultural industries, to develop a combat plan in case an antimicrobial resistant bacteria emerges," Schipp said.
"The piggery has implemented a common sense approach to managing animal health by providing adequate nutrition, abiding to strict biosecurity measures and using vaccines to control infectious diseases in livestock production," he said.
"This piggery's management model has been duplicated in other parts of the world, which demonstrates that Australia is a world leader in developing innovative and practical animal management strategies."
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The desire to nurture the Estate's exceptional qualities has shaped Ornellaia's philosophy since the beginning. Ornellaia is a cuvée of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc & Petit Verdot and the faithful expression of unique terroir developed in harmony with nature.
Winter 2001 was characterised by mild temperatures and a higher than average rainfall. Budding was earlier than average and occurred during the last days of March and beginning April. Spring saw moderate temperatures and above average rainfall. Flowering started halfway through May with the Merlot and finished at the end of the month with the Cabernet Sauvignon. The Summer 2001 growing season was within the norm with average temperatures and only a small amount of seasonal rainfall. The fine conditions enabled the grapes to develop uniformly. Early July the grapes were thinned; Merlot (about 30%,) followed by Cabernet Sauvignon (about 10%), to ensure that the remaining grapes ripened under the optimal conditions. The weather continued fine throughout the harvest period with warm sunny days and cool nights. Harvesting of the Merlot started in the younger vineyards in the first few days of September. An interruption was then made for about a week while tannins ripened to optimal levels in the more mature vineyards, and continued until the middle of September. The harvest of the Cabernet Sauvignon started in the third week of September and was concluded on the 5th of October.
Fragrances of well-ripened dark and red berry fruit, together with judiciously-balanced tannins, supple and silk-smooth, marry together with the other components of Ornellaia's structure to create a wine with superb body and a finish that seems to continue forever.


Some drivers think a 35 mile per hour speed limit is too slow for a four lane divided highway. Police don't: they say it's a good excuse to search cars.
This story comes from Fairmont, West Virginia, whose 19,000 people got a $150 million new speed trap in 2010.
In the middle of the interview a city police officer explains that the reason they go out there is to make pretext stops looking for drugs. There's some empty talk about how traffic seems faster and drivers could slow down, but the meat of the story is the about how it's just an excuse to violate drivers' rights.
It reminds me of a story from a couple years ago about a 65 mph sign mistakenly posted in a 75 zone on I-90 near Rapid City. That was the favorite hunting ground for state police to search cars for drugs.
Drivers obeying the speed limit went to prison. Police and DOT officials did not.
The current state of law encourages police officers not to ask questions about the speed limit.
That's wrong. There is no such thing as a good faith pretext stop. If in hindsight a ridiculous speed limit is found not to be justified, everybody involved in setting and abusing it should be charged with civil rights violations.


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Home » Night to Dawn Magazine & Books LLC » Michael De Stefano » The Gunslinger's Companion
Excerpt: One particularly hot and humid Sunday morning, that was where he was headed, when he found himself fascinated by the folks shuffling into the Blessed Juan Diego de Guadalupe Roman Catholic Church.
Pablo stumbled upon this scene on many a Sunday morning; although, this morning one family in particular garnered most, if not all of his attention. There was nothing extraordinary or exceptional about this family—only a husband and wife with their three children. Neither were they typical. Despite the bustling crowd, Pablo managed to examine them without a moment's digression as they made their way to the church. He sensed that he knew the family well. As for the father; he had seen this man's face a thousand times over the span of thousands of days, and yet they had never met—not even a passing glance on the street. It was only the image that the man portrayed that Pablo recognized—an image of desperation and of the hopelessness that accompanies the endless toil in the life of a migrant—the image of a trapped man in an unforgiving world and whose spirit was long ago crushed. The man's legs were still sturdy, his hands strong, but for how much longer? As Pablo observed, deep within the man's dark brooding eyes was the look of one who long ago surrendered. Pablo grew up toiling right along men just like this—the look in their eyes was irrevocably etched in his memory. This man had that same look. Pablo suspected that he and his family were migrants—or worse, were among the woe begotten that society pretends not to see—the ones who prefer to remain in shadow, but on Sunday morning, for the love of God, will come forth.
The man's wife was typical of a woman of her circumstance, in that, for the sake of her children, she smiled and pretended. Inside, though, was where she hid all her suffering, as the daily ritual of survival had all but worn away her once abundant resolve. The two boys, who Pablo placed at age six and eight, walked with a lilt—their youth served as an effective shield to deflect any misery launched in their direction. As for the girl; she was too old to lose herself in ignorance, and yet too young to lose all hope. She was stuck somewhere between the heart that her father wore on his sleeve and the smile that her mother routinely learned to force. One thing was for certain; Anna Maria Lopez was the most beautiful creature that Pablo Cordero had ever laid his eyes upon. With a luxurious sea of shiny, black hair ending at the small of her back, and the warm, radiant glow of skin that belied the harshness of her days, Anna Maria Lopez walked with poise—her willowy form seemed to glide amid the others who merely stepped their way toward the church. To his surprise, Pablo discovered that he was standing inside the Blessed Juan Diego de Guadalupe Roman Catholic Church as he unwittingly followed the glorious creature.
Never before had Pablo set foot inside a house of worship. Although he considered himself to be a man of God and of the Bible, he never sought a specific religious denomination. He had no idea what it meant to be Catholic, Protestant, or any other religion. His pathway to God was without distinction.
Pablo sat in the pew right behind the Lopezes. He took his eyes away from Anna Maria long enough to gaze upon the impressive architecture of the grand Roman Catholic structure. In the past four years, Pablo worked on one edifice after another in the town of Brownsville. In doing so, he gained a fair amount of knowledge of materials, what they cost, and how they were acquired. However, he had never worked with materials of the likes with which the church was comprised. This left him wondering, with whose dime was the ornate palace built?
Pablo sat behind Jorge Lopez to better gaze upon the profile of his beautiful daughter—the slope of her delicate nose, the corner of a soft and remarkable eye—an eye which thus far hadn't noticed its captive admirer.
Despite his fascination, Pablo made every attempt to hone in on the priest, whose voice was bouncing off the walls and raining down from the dome. He found the acoustics anomalous and took some getting used to. At last, he allowed the priest's words to reverberate throughout the church without any effort to try and bring them to his ears. While the words washed over him, he allowed himself to become lost in the face of one so beautiful. He wished to remain in perpetual reverie, conjuring thought after thought of how he and the glorious creature could spend a warm Sunday afternoon. However, in the course of his reverie, his eyes drifted away from Anna Maria, traveling to Jorge Lopez, before resting on his wife, Martina. It was while observing the woebegone couple that Pablo was transported back to the dusty plains of the Midwest and wheat belt, where he planted and harvested under an unforgiving sun for what amounted to slave wages. He shuddered to contemplate circumstances that would send him back to those hot, dusty plains. At once, he shifted his eyes to revisit the lovely Anna Maria.
Along with her impeccable posture and her proud chin, there was an elegance to Anna Maria Lopez that made her standout from all others—including those, who according to their attire were of a much higher station. Pablo couldn't imagine Jorge or Martina Lopez possessing such traits, even before their spirits were broken. Like Dolci Cordero, Anna Maria Lopez was a delicate stem at the end of which bloomed an exquisite flower trying to survive in a harsh and barren land. When gazing at Anna Maria, Pablo conjured images of his mother—the lustful way men ogled her—their vulgar advances. He wondered what might have this magnificent creature, who sat between her pretending mother and slumping father in a house of worship, been forced to do against her will. He dismissed the abhorrent thought before it ever had the chance to fester into something he couldn't bear.
Pablo was jolted from his reverie when realizing that the priest's voice ceased reverberating off the walls and ceiling. All went quiet, save for the soft murmuring that ran throughout the church, along with the shuffling of feet. He looked away from Anna Maria to view a congregation, which began shaking hands with one another. "Peace be with you," they were all saying when shaking hands with those within their immediate proximity. Pablo found the ritual curious, but pleasing. Then Jorge Lopez turned toward Pablo and offered a hand. Jorge didn't notice Pablo's brief hesitation, during which, and with some reflection, he examined the man's knurly appendage. When the two brought their hands together, Pablo was surprised to discover that his own hand was equally rough and calloused. "Peace be with you," said Jorge Lopez.
Pablo returned the sentiment, though Jorge's eyes remained downcast throughout their brief exchange.
To Pablo's delight, Anna Maria, too, offered him her hand. He was embarrassed about his hand's condition and prayed that the girl wouldn't be too repulsed by his touch. Should she in any way recoil, he feared the dream of a tender touch and affectionate words spoken on a warm Sunday afternoon would be over before it could begin. He received Anna Maria's hand as if it were a delicate flower whose petals he dare not bend. "Peace be with you," she said, smiling demurely at one who looked back with admiration.
Pablo Cordero tried to imagine a day in the life of Anna Maria Lopez, whose demure smile launched him into a hyper-romantic notion that he already knew her, and furthermore, would one day soon and to her delight, swoop down from up on high and rescue her from a life of endless toil. Pablo and Anna Maria would stroll the town of Brownsville at sunset before wandering into Abercrombie's Drugstore for a bag of hard candy. Just as Pablo had on many a days past, Anna Maria would find the candy a delight. Next they would stroll along the river on the boardwalk. There, Pablo would mention with a hint of pride, that he and his friends had built the strong and sturdy structure on which aspiring young lovers walked hand-in-hand along the Rio Grande on moonlit nights. It would only be natural for Anna Maria to be curious about Pablo's friends. He would oblige, naturally, but would omit the "Dirty" in Jack Doyle, the "The Prick" in Frankie Donato, the "Fat Fuck" in McGinn, and that Lefty Carson was simply another lefthander. At dusk they would board the last ferry for Matamoros on their way to Bagdad Beach. There they would share their first kiss and remain in a warm and loving embrace until the tip of the rising sun cast its first rays on the Gulf of Mexico.
Seemingly out of nowhere appeared four men. Two were making their way down the center aisle of the church—the other two the side aisles. Each was holding firm to a long stick which fastened to a basket. To Pablo's astonishment, the men stopped at each pew and dangled the baskets in the laps of folks, some of whom Pablo could easily determine were Brownsville's less fortunate citizens. Pablo raised a curious brow. This wasn't the God of which Josiah Walton spoke. Yet, people were reaching for their purses for whatever they could spare, or for whatever was expected—Pablo had no way of knowing which. Finally the basket arrived at the pew where sat the Lopezes. Before the basket made it to where it dangled in Jorge Lopez's lap, Pablo alertly seized his hand.
"Sir," he said, "I respectfully ask that you allow me."
Jorge Lopez glared at Pablo. How dare you assume that I need your charity, was the message that flashed in the man's otherwise brooding eyes. For a moment, Pablo thought he had made a huge miscalculation in his judgment and that Jorge Lopez was about to make a scene. Then he looked once again into Jorge's eyes. There was no mistake. Pablo had seen those eyes too many times in the past.
"Sir." Pablo leaned forward to whisper into Jorge Lopez's' ear. "I have no one in this world. No one to look after. No family to feed."
It wasn't Pablo's intention to make Jorge Lopez feel inadequate, or himself to appear heroic in the presence the man's beautiful daughter. His motive was pure—the gesture discreet, yet it didn't escape Anna Maria, who in turn flashed the same demure smile as when Pablo earlier took hold of her hand. Meanwhile, Martina Lopez pretended not to notice the subtleness that transpired.
Mass ended and the parishioners of the Blessed Juan Diego de Guadalupe Roman Catholic Church spilled into the street. With eyes dissecting the crowd, Pablo kept the Lopezes in sight and followed them, but at a distance. Occasionally Anna Maria glanced back. When doing so, evident was her same demure smile and a twinkle in her eye. Charmed beyond hope, Pablo smiled in return, pretending to mosey along incidentally in the same direction. All at once he was feeling clumsy, inspired, and foolish. When seeing Anna Maria's twinkling eye, he was Pablo Cordero…heroic lover. In the seconds that elapsed between the backward glances, he was a stalker lurking in shadow, and whose intentions were clear to all those whom he passed along the way. He wondered where and when the journey would end, but more importantly, how.
Jorge Lopez trudged onward with downcast eyes, while Martina Lopez pretended not to notice her daughter's backward glances at the young man who she knew was following her. When at the northwest limits on town, Pablo found it most odd that the Lopezes walked such a distance to attend a church service. It was there that Anna Maria once again glanced back at Pablo. This time her smile and the twinkle were gone. In their stead was a look that portrayed sorrow and regret. Step after step after block after mile, Pablo followed the Lopezes, only to have his spirit crushed by one telling glance. It came quite unexpected and he wanted to run up to Anna Maria, seize her by her arms, and cry, "What did that look mean? Why, after all this, did you dash all hope?" In his own hyper-romantic mind, Pablo had gone far beyond the point of hello. Though, crushed as his spirit might have been, he continued trailing after the Lopezes.
Soon the road turned to dirt, and along with the journey it ended at Mortimer's farm—a farm whose chief cash crop was cotton. Anna Maria turned back for what she knew in her heart would be the last look at a young man who thought so much as to follow her. Her downcast eyes were more telling than mere words. Now you know, my dear Prince, the squalor in which I live—the truth of my wretched existence. Before no one else could I feel so ashamed. It would be my wish to see you again, but I know that I never will. That was the message that Anna Maria sent Pablo, which he received loud and clear. Then Pablo watched as the Lopezes disappeared into their ramshackle dwelling.
Gunslinger's Companion (Historical Fiction)
By Michael De Stefano
ISBN #978-1937769307
NTD www.bloddredshadow.com
Rating 5-Stars
"Reminiscent of Steinbeck and Caldwell. The story of migrant workers in America, and a family's desperate journey during dangerous times."
The story begins when a family leaves Mexico before a civil war starts in their country, only to be enmeshed in America's War Between the States. It follows the families as they experience suffering, rape, and a living hell in their adopted land, where evil begets them along their journey. The story focuses on Pablo Cordero, as he struggles to survive in a failing economy among violent people. Born of migrant parents working the wheat harvest across America, the hard men who follow the wheat crops can be cruel and uncaring of who they hurt.
Even though the story skips around, returning to past times, then back to the present, the author keeps the reader entertained. Pablo invents fantasies to tell his daughter and granddaughter, to cover up the harsh times. He tells them of sunrises and sunsets on Bagdad Beach in Matamoros, Mexico, and how magical the event is. What befalls them on their journey will make a strong man cry. Pablo holds on to his faith, though his life is the suffering of Job, never blaming God for his miseries. The reader will laugh at his humor, and then cry at his many losses. This is a novel reminiscent of Steinbeck and Caldwell, and should be read with a light heart for a gentle man and his family's plight. The characters will mesmerize the readers. Highly recommended.
Tom Johnson, Echoes Magazine
The Gunslinger's Companion is a well written, poignant story about a courageous man's struggles for survival in bleak circumstances. It is also heartwarming. After the sad and untimely death of his mother, he was left totally alone at a tender age and meets an array of colorful characters that restore his faith in mankind and become lifelong friends. The reader travels along with Pablo Cordero, falls in love with him, and at every step of the way marvels at his resiliency and ability to make needed decisions to prevail. His beloved granddaughter inherits that same resiliency and courage. The novel educates the reader by presenting a vivid picture of early Americana and life for those living and working in the dust bowl. This is an easy book to recommend. Five Stars ~ Fidelity (Amazon reviewer)
My Reaction: {I received an e-copy to help facilitate this review- opinions are 100% my own}
This is a heartfelt story of the life of Pablo Cordero, a strong man dealing with life's hard blows. He deals with some very hard blows in life, the witnessing of his mothers rape, death of those that surround him, and the overall struggles of life during the time. We watch as he overcomes all, becoming a man that has endured.
While story jumped back and forth at times, I enjoyed how connected you feel to the time. You become a witness to his very life, every emotion, and every triumph. As a reader history comes alive within the pages.
Reviewer: Danelle Johns of Our Wolves-Den
The Gunslinger's Companion by Michael De Stefano
The Gunslinger's Companion by Michael De Stefano is a 2014 Night to Dawn Magazine publication. I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This is a fascinating account of Pablo Cordero's life beginning when his family flees Mexico to avoid the impending civil war. Beginning life in America proves to be ironic when the civil war breaks out between the states.
As Pablo travels to Kentucky with his granddaughter, the absolute light of his life , he begins to recall his past and how it has led him to this point in his life.
Pablo witnessed a good many terrible things in his life and at such a tender age. But, we don't hear a lot of "poor me". Pablo works the wheat fields to make a living and the men he works alongside are often cruel. But, Pablo does meet some really great people along the way who help him stem his anger and bitterness.
Now, Pablo must become a parent to his granddaughter because of the danger her mother is in. Anna Maria will grow into a strong woman that has the will and strength to take care of things no one else will. I think readers will like her more than any other character. I did like Pablo's history, but I wondered about the way he treated his daughter when she fell pregnant and then when he appeared to understand what was happening to her that made her beg him to take Anna away, why he didn't defend her, I'm not really sure. That was one of those things that sort of nagged at me especially after Pablo had witnessed the cruelty men could dish out to women.
Regardless, the history has a very authentic feel to it and it was easy to envision the land, the people, the joys the pain, and thankfully what looks like a new sort of life for Anna.
This book is not a sugar coated, watered down version of history. If you have issues with rape and violence then be prepared for some uncomfortable moments.
The book is written with a literary style prose and the author does a great job of blending the time periods without confusing the reader.
If you enjoy family sagas and want to read something other than the usual topics featured in historical fiction, then you should try this one out.
This one gets 4 stars. ~ Julie's Reviews
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