text:
The art of salvation
In 2000, the most popular exhibition in Britain, and the fourth most popular in the world, was Seeing Salvation, a collection of 79 images, created over two millennia, revealing how Western European artists have tried to visualise Christ. About 360,000 people attended the ten-week exhibition, which was at the National Gallery in London.
Depicting Christ is an extraordinarily challenging endeavour; in the beginning there was only the word. There are no descriptions in the Gospels of what Christ looked like. Moreover, early Christians were apprehensive about attempting to portray Jesus. The Second Commandment forbids the making and worshipping of idolatrous images (figurative art was associated with pagan idol worship). Eventually, as non-Jewish converts became relatively more relaxed about the idea of Christian imagery, symbols (for example, the anchor, inspiring hope, the fish, ichthus in Greek – an acrostic (in Greek) for 'Jesus Christ, Son of God, Saviour' – and recalling the power of Baptismal water to bestow forgiveness), word signs, and iconic images were created. The first of these date from around 200 AD, and are displayed in catacombs outside the city walls of Rome. In medieval Europe, mysteriously, Christ's appearance – that of a long haired, bearded man – came to be likened to that which miraculously appeared on 'St Veronica's handkerchief', after Christ supposedly used it to wipe his anguished face while bearing the Cross to Calvary. As a gesture of kindness, St Veronica had offered the material to Christ. The image on the so-called Turin Shroud was also an influence, (See notes below.)
Helpfully, the exhibition images were arranged thematically: 'Sign and Symbol', 'The Dual Nature', 'The True Likeness', and so on – enabling viewers to contrast the various modes of expression and to understand their theological and historical significance. The displays elucidated the influence of Christianity and Christian imagery on Western art. Many historic works of art, both by Old Masters and unknown artists, especially those created up until the Renaissance, were a response to religious themes, and either displayed in places of worship or intended to be devotional in a private context.
One newspaper report noted that 'Seeing Salvation' was regarded as 'box office poison'; it might offend people of other faiths or no faith. Two charities sponsored the exhibition, as the Gallery apparently couldn't find a commercial sponsor. Admission was free at a time when museums still charged for admission – would people pay to see pictures of Christ? Regardless, the BBC presented a television series about the exhibition.
But perhaps the feared poison had some of the qualities of an elixir. People, including columnists, critics and curators, were astounded by the fact that 'Seeing Salvation' was so popular in our supposedly secular age. (Sixty thousand copies of the catalogue were sold.) Is the world so shy of Christianity?
Indeed, according to a recent survey by the Pew Research Center (a Washington DC think tank), Christians comprised almost the same proportion of the world's population in 2010 (32%) as they did in 1910 (35%). Nonetheless, this apparent stability masks a geographic shift: while Europe and the Americas are still home to a majority of Christians (63%), this share is lower than it was in 1910 (93%). This change is due to the growth of Christianity since 1910 in sub-Saharan Africa (9% in 1910 to 63% in 2010) and to a lesser extent in Asia-Pacific (3% in 1920 to 7% in 2010).
Moreover, given worldwide publicity, the increase in tourism from non- Western nations, and a concomitant interest in Western cultural heritage, are numbers that surprising? Even if one does not subscribe to the message, one can uphold the beauty and humanistic relevance of Christian iconography, appreciate its informative value and transcending power. You can understand how Rembrandt and Graham Sutherland speak to us about love, compassion, suffering, and redemption.
The Gallery received about 300 letters of appreciation. In an article in The Pastoral Review, the curator, Gabriele Finalde, reveals that 'there was a hushed and reverential atmosphere in the exhibition rooms… Some visitors also decided to pray in the exhibition…On one occasion I noted that an Anglican bishop… was approached by a visitor who asked for a blessing, They retreated into a darkened corner of Room 5′.
The exhibition confirmed that Christian imagery is not necessarily alienating, even though one may not believe in the subject. It is relevant to the here and now, whether we're looking at it in a museum or in one of the churches and cathedrals visited by so many people (in Britain, about 32 million people annually).
Ironically, though, there was long period after the Reformation when art became relatively more secularised, not necessarily for lack of belief but because many Protestants associated art with sinful pleasure, papal indulgence and the patronage of the unduly wealthy. Since the mid twentieth century, however, contemporary art in churches and cathedrals has slowly become a feature on the cultural landscape. Cathedrals and churches are adopting arts policies, enabling artists' residencies and appointing staff with responsibilities for developing an arts programme.
The movement was first championed by George Bell (1883–1958), a former Bishop of Chichester, and thereafter by Walter Hussey (1909–85), a former Dean of Chichester. Both men encouraged a modern and generous attitude to the arts. They believed firmly that modern art and unfamiliar forms could enhance tradition by making us perceive its contemporary relevance.
This development, however, raises questions about the nature of the commissions and displays. Should the work merely enhance the physicality of the context? Should it at least inspire a sense of the numinous? Should it reflect universally appreciated Christian values, be assuredly prescriptive, or purposely challenge perceptions of Christianity – encourage conversation? Should contemporary art in a cathedral have a different catchment 'area' than that for a church? Should the artist be a believer, 'famous', worthy of a Tate exhibition?
To prove the importance of the art commissions to the way we live now, measured responses are vital. Otherwise the artwork could be seen as vacuous ecclesiastical indulgences.
For a thoughtful and informed response, I met with artist Mark Cazalet. Mark chaired the working group for the Church of England's recently published guidelines for parishes and artists involved in commissioning art for places of worship Over the past 20 years Mark has undertaken many ecclesiastical projects (including ones for Chelmsford, Manchester and Worcester Cathedrals) of varying scale in different media. He teaches at West Dean College and the Prince's Drawing School..
'The nature of the art commissioned could, but doesn't have to, reflect the role of the religious institution,' considers Mark. 'For example, cathedrals are embassies of the Church, national voices, speaking with a relatively more established and authoritative status. They're seen as standard bearers. They might very well go for big names with big money, or feel they ought to, especially if benefactors are big names themselves and appreciate this strategy. Cathedrals might feel their physicality and notoriety should match the scale of commission, opt for what's provocative rather than prescriptive because they have visitors from all faiths who don't share a symbolic visual language.'
But Cazalet is uneasy – he questions whether, as cultural pilgrims, cathedrals ought to walk the 'big name' path? Is this really the right spirit? 'Do we really want a watered down version of the polemic? Christ engaged people, why shouldn't we do so with art.' We agree that parish churches may feel more confident being prescriptive; the congregation shares the images.
Mark is not apologetic about embracing Christian art that is imbued with missionary zeal and that reinterprets the Bible in a contemporary context, addressing today's social issues: child abuse, AIDS, gay priesthood, slavery, womanhood, equality of choice. Artists have to want to face the big questions concerning sex, death, birth, war, though they don't have to be believers.
I look at Mark's ecclesiastical work, which nearly always features people – the shapes of the figures remind me of Stanley Spencer's – in contemporary dress and settings, performing everyday activities. His colours are gentle, toned with shafts of light. The prodigal son has a square angry jaw; he wears earphones and a baseball cap. The Holy Family shares a pizza. A young man and woman – possibly teenagers – are touching each other gently.
Mark's is the only Christmas card we've kept this year. It pictures his Women of the Bible Triptych, commissioned for a girls' school in Romford. The women, of all ages and shapes, dressed casually in contemporary dress, are featured in everyday locations in Romford – the market, the park, on a running track near a cemetery. In the middle stands a pensive Deborah behind the issuing desk in a library, in front of a little boy. She has brown shoulder-length hair, wears glasses and a wooden cross around her neck. The dominant shape is the Trinity triangular. Deborah (Judges 4) is considered one of the greatest women in the Bible – a prophetess and judge, sensitive to sexism, and great battle leader of the Israelites. With Mark I listen through my eyes. Amen.
At least three cloths are associated with the Crucifixion of Christ: the Sudarium (sweat cloth) of Oviedo (Spain), thought to have been wrapped around Christ's head; the Turin Shroud, in which it is claimed that Christ's body was wrapped, which bears the image of a man's face and body; and Veronica's veil (or handkerchief, 'the Veronica'). When Christ was on his way to Calvary (the story goes) he wiped his face on St Veronica's veil (or kerchief) leaving an imprint of his features on it. This story is not in the Gospels and appears to be a medieval invention (the name Veronica means 'true icon'). None of these cloths was venerated until the middle ages. A cloth purported to be Veronica's veil was publicly shown in Rome in 1207 and many copies were made. Either the 'original' or one of the copies is in St Peter's Basilica. The image-bearing Veronica is also referred to as a sudarium, so there may have been some conflation of stories with those of the Oviedo Sudarium and the Turin Shroud. There is evidence linking the Shroud and the Sudarium to first century Palestine, but the Veronica has not been scientifically examined.
For more information, refer to previous articles in 'Artistic Miscellany: 'Art in Chichester – the sacred and the secular' and 'Sacred art at St. Paul's Cathedral'.
Image of The Carnival Triptych, detail of front, 2008, by Mark Cazalet, courtesy of Mark Cazalet, http://www.markcazalet.co.uk.
This article first appeared in Cassone: The International Online Magazine of Art and Art Books in the April 2012 issue.
Author Jenny KingsleyPosted on 18th January 2016 20th February 2016
Previous Previous post: The Stanley Spencer Gallery
Next Next post: The conservatory – a champion for the environment


text:
REVIEW – THE FACELESS/Osiah/ZhOra/Aesect – The Voodoo Lounge, Dublin 06/02/18
Posted on February 8, 2018 by Oran
Landing down at Dublin's Voodoo Lounge on a bitterly cold February evening, we can hear that the bands are in full sound check mode. Ireland is hosting Californian extreme metal quartet The Faceless, promoting their latest album "In Becoming a Ghost", released in December by Sumerian Records (who also boast Jonathan Davis amongst their ranks as a signed artist). It's a slow night to start, but that's going to change very quickly. Shaun Martin was in the mix for Overdrive on the night.
Zhora are fast becoming a more and more commonly known band since their triumph at Metal 2 the Masses Ireland in Dublin in 2017, giving them the nod to perform at Bloodstock Open Air in last August. The Tipperary four-piece don't hang about and make short work of their (not long enough) time slot. With only 4 or 5 songs to get through, their Mastodon-on-acid originality has no problem getting people in front of the stage, and they are known for being animated in their setlist; tonight is no different, as both guitarists headbang their way voraciously from one note to the next.
A top quality Irish band celebrating their first gig of 2018 (consisting of guitarists/vocalist Colin Bolger and fellow guitarist Pancho O'Meara, bassist Alan Hanlon and drummer Thomas Woodlock), each man is solid in his role and the band delivers a kicking to the eardrums to warm us up for tonight. 3.5/5
Getting through their sound check in record time, Dublin metal outfit Aesect don't even wait for the PA to get turned off before the decibels skyrocket. Frontman Mark Lennon's guttural vocals resemble Burn the Priest-era Randy Blythe, and only that I can actually see the band, one would be forgiven for thinking they may be a tribute act to Lamb of God. But this is no tribute – this is sheer niche-defining talent. Axemen Dave Kennedy and Aidan O' Halloran wield the power supreme with dominance, palm-muting their unstoppably catchy riffs backed up with a note-perfect bass line by Aidan Williams. Drummer Luke Peters is the common denominator here though, tying everything together with the earth trembling with every beat he produces. Heads are whipping left and right on stage and in the audience and the numbers here are growing by the minute. 4/5
Brutal deathcore harbingers from the UK, Osiah assembles their stage pieces bit by bit, as frontman Ricky Lee Roper stalks the stage over and back, clearly working himself up into some sort of frenzy.
Without warning, the bottom drops out of the venue, catching everyone by surprise (me most of all with his greeting "top of the mornin to ya!"). There is a platform on the lip of the stage, where Roper, guitarists Chris Keepin and Rownan Tennet join bass player Andy Mallaby to stand their ground front and centre and headbang their way through the entire setlist. The drums are an entirely different animal, however. Drummer Robbie Dinnen is hidden behind his kit and he's working overtime. Imagine a band that has a machine gun for a drummer and you'd be somewhere in the vicinity of how fast he's going.
It is impeccably timed, and it's going at a hundred miles an hour… I can't really keep track of it, to be fair. The band can though… that's the main thing, and it's working its magic. The pace of the breakdown beats is synonymous to a sledgehammer rhythmically striking a hollow surface; very loud, very heavy, and the music is very, very catchy. There are majestic silent pauses in their songs are not signalled by anybody (like someone counting 1,2,3, or the drummer counting beats on a hi-hat, or giving stick counts), so the lads have their timing down to the nearest second. The brutally heavy setlist bounces with a real sense of pride. It's difficult to maintain the pace of treacherously complex drums and guitars and at the same time have it slow and sludgy but Osiah have that covered like a well-tuned engine. 3.5/5
The Faceless sharpen the axe getting ready to make the final cut tonight. It's a bit of a mixed bag of guitar virtuosity, prog metal and extreme death metal… a bit like Dream Theatre meets Dying Fetus. Both guitarists Michael Keene and Justin McKinney are absolutely mesmerising, and watching them play is a real treat for the eyes and ears.
Main vocalist Ken Sorceron (who reminds me of Dave Grohl in appearance, voice, and demeanour), declares his happiness for the first time the band have been in Ireland. There are requests for "Rush" covers but Keene insists on Thin Lizzy instead, much to the delight of everyone here.
Keene also supplies the easy vocals coupled with the death growls of Sorceron to make their pairing quite unique in equal parts heavy and equal parts soothing. Their 4th song "Sons of Belial" really lets the floodgates open wide… it's the heaviest song of their set so far, and it's very complex – mixing brute force akin to Emperor or Dimmu Borgir with standard 2×4 drum beats of more mainstream bands, and the way they pull it out of the bag is impressive.
Technical death metal is always a tough genre to crack but 'Cup of Mephisopheles' surpasses the preceding heaviness and replaces it with guitar shred insanity, courtesy of Keene. They dig deep into the back catalogue of earlier recordings and find "The Ancient Covenant", much to the delight of the baying crowd. Things are really starting to get lively up front and with each passing song, and they've mentioned (just a few times), how impressed they are that the punters know the lyrics so well. Keene invites a large singalong on multiple occasions and his request is not unrequited.
Unfortunately, it is a school night so the gig has to finish early. Although there are only 9 songs on the setlist, it feels like it could have gone on for a lot longer and for the last song 'Xenochrist', the crowd goes wild and enjoy every single second of it. The lights don't go up at the end of the song, exaggerating any hopes of an encore, but sadly there is none. This was a truly amazing performance from a band that have had a long hard-fought slog over the last 14 years, with line-up changes, session musicians, and many albums under their belt. They're welcome back here anytime. 4/5
Emancipate
Deconsecrate
Sons of belial
The Spiralling void
An Autopsy
Cup of Mephistopheles
The Ancient Covenant
Xenochrist
Shaun Martin

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


Before I left for Switzerland to prepare for our Lord of the Rings trilogy at Lincoln Center in NYC I had the absolute honor of writing a piece for Elite Magazine- a publication dedicated to the Fayetteville region and military installations. What could a singer, performer and musician have to offer such an audience of readers? Well having always had to supply and find my own stage dresses I have MANY tips on where to buy formal gowns without breaking the bank for all the military balls and formal events we as military spouses have to attend. Also, with head shots, photo shoots, publicity and just being an all around performer, I forget the novelty of having pictures taken by a professional photographer or being the center of a photo shoot.
Not only was I able to pass along some buyers tips, but also got the chance to help organize a photo shoot for all my fellow military spouses and friends. These working moms, business women and all around amazing females don't always get the opportunity to kick their feet up and become the Belle of the Ball on a regular basis. Experienced military spouses, they were all eager to lend their wisdom, experience and gorgeous faces towards the article. I swear one day I want to put together a "soup for the soul" book or collection of stories and experiences much of the military spouse web all around the world has to offer!
Our time at Fort Bragg has not been very long, but these past couple months finally being "out of the woods" with a 2 year old & infant while working, and making it through our first deployment as a family I have met so many new women in the Fayetteville area. That and finally getting my own private voice studio going! I just love being able to work with kids in the area, and young musicians and vocalists starting out. Trying to figure out what singing and what music means to them is just a part of planting some roots into the community that has given us so much.
Start up business owners, direct sales, makeup artists, hairstylists, photographers, editors- it's just amazing how female entrepreneurs support one another no matter how diverse their particular realm of industry. This led to another local opportunity- being featured in CityView Magazine thanks to editor Miriam Landrau. Talk about planting roots- this amazing military spouse has planted a gosh darn TREE in Fayetteville. Simply amazing ; ) As a vocalist and mom of two going from one realm to another is just a part of life. My kids and the dear friends we have made here at Bragg enrich the life that I have when I am away making music. The two are intrinsically intertwined and I refuse to let either piece go. These women: ones dealing with 9 month or longer deployments, having to take care of five kids or have the birth of their child without Dad home, organize meal plans or send cards to new moms, decide to go back to finish their degree…….THESE are the ones who inspire me. For as long as I can "make it work" this #singinmama is gonna do her thing!
I'll post a blog soon on our time at Lincoln Center. SO MUCH TO TALK ABOUT ITS JUST TO MUCH FOR THIS POST!
It was an EPIC series of performances- and with two already down- an absolutely huge benchmark for the Lord of the Rings Live to Projection tour! These musicians from Lucerne and 21st Century Orchestra and Chorus have been performing and mastering the music longer than any other orchestra. They know it better than any! Kind, hard working, detailed, and exceptional musicians to say they do it the best is a complete understatement! I may have had to spend Easter apart from my kids and husband this year but life always goes in spurts. Feast and famine: ride the highs so you can remember when your feeling low. Lincoln Center I know will have a special place in my memory for a long time to come- so toi toi toi to all my fellow performers! Do what you love for as long as you can!


This dazzling super luxury beachfront villa offers the same high quality contemporary interiors as the nearby Mirador but includes a fifth bedroom.
Nirvana's top floor has been transformed into a unique sunset bar with plenty of seating, offering elevated sea and beach views.
The ground floor living areas are spacious with a large family room, comfortable sofas and a 65 inch flat screen TV. The best in chef prepared cuisine can be enjoyed in a formal setting within the luxurious and air conditioned interiors or around the perfectly square alfresco dining table which can seat up to 12 guests. Foodies can marvel at the delicacies being created in the well equipped kitchen with bar stools for easy breakfasts.
Both dining and family rooms open onto the wide covered terrace and then onto the outstanding outdoor areas with informal dining, sun-loungers, enticing swimming pool and direct access to the beach. Perhaps the best spot for relaxing in the company of friends and family. Retractable awnings or large sun-umbrellas offer plenty of shade. The ground floor also offers a beautiful guest bedroom whilst the master bedroom and 3 other bedrooms are located on the upper floor.
This extremely popular beach front villa is ideal for families and features an expansive covered terrace for outdoor living and taking in the exceptional sea and sunset views, as well as a pool table downstairs and a small private pool. The local Jordans supermarket is walking distance away.
Set on the beautiful west coast of Barbados, in Prospect, St James, this three storey 4 bedroom ocean front villa is a modern styled, stand alone holiday home with state of the art features and uninterrupted breathtaking views of the tranquil, turquoise-blue waters of the Caribbean Sea.


text:
Q: How to get related products shows in the row in Magento? I have problem with costumizing the way that related products shows in Magento product page view.
See the problem here: http://i.imgur.com/aZ7CALr.jpg
How to make all products to show in one row, and to show only 4 products?
This is the code:
<?php
/**
 * Magento
 *
 * NOTICE OF LICENSE
 *
 * This source file is subject to the Academic Free License (AFL 3.0)
 * that is bundled with this package in the file LICENSE_AFL.txt.
 * It is also available through the world-wide-web at this URL:
 * http://opensource.org/licenses/afl-3.0.php
 * If you did not receive a copy of the license and are unable to
 * obtain it through the world-wide-web, please send an email
 * to license@magentocommerce.com so we can send you a copy immediately.
 *
 * DISCLAIMER
 *
 * Do not edit or add to this file if you wish to upgrade Magento to newer
 * versions in the future. If you wish to customize Magento for your
 * needs please refer to http://www.magentocommerce.com for more information.
 *
 * @category    design
 * @package     magento-foundation_default
 * @copyright   Copyright (c) 2012 Magento Inc. (http://www.magentocommerce.com)
 * @license     http://opensource.org/licenses/afl-3.0.php  Academic Free License (AFL 3.0)
 */
?>
<?php if($this->getItems()->getSize()): ?>

<?php echo $this->__('Продукти от същата категория') ?>

        <?php foreach($this->getItems() as $_item): ?>

                <?php if(!$_item->isComposite() && $_item->isSaleable()): ?>
                    <?php if (!$_item->getRequiredOptions()): ?>
                         <?php endif; ?>
                <?php endif; ?>

<a href="<?php echo $_item->getProductUrl() ?>" title="<?php echo $this->htmlEscape($_item->getName()) ?>"><img src="<?php echo $this->helper('catalog/image')->init($_item, 'thumbnail')->resize(100) ?>" width="100" height="100" alt="<?php echo $this->htmlEscape($_item->getName()) ?>" />

<a href="<?php echo $_item->getProductUrl() ?>"><?php echo $this->htmlEscape($_item->getName()) ?>

 <?php echo $this->getPriceHtml($_item, true, '-related') ?>

                        <?php if ($this->helper('wishlist')->isAllow()) : ?>

                        <?php endif; ?>

        <?php endforeach ?>

<?php endif ?>

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


How Can I Know if I Should Marry Again?
Many factors go into deciding if, and when, you should marry again. Obviously, finding the right person is paramount. Yet there are other considerations as well. Here are a few things to keep in mind.


As I sit here writing this post, I find myself holding my breath; afraid to breathe because the pain is so intense and profound. This has been a difficult year; a year of loss and change. Change, I tell myself, is often a good thing. While it may be painful or uncomfortable initially, with time its effects are usually for the better. And while you can look at loss as a part of change, here I am talking about the deep, painful loss of someone you love and is an everyday part of your life. If you have never lost anyone in your life like this, please know that someday you will.
Yesterday, August 11, 2017, we lost such a person. Bob and AnnMarie have been a part of our life for more than 30 years; my husband's best friend, buddy, confidante and compadre. A man we loved, honored and respected in every possible way. A man we turned to for advice, counsel, fun and laughter. A man of the highest integrity, principle, and compassion. There aren't enough words to describe his character and the long reaching effect and influence he has had on so many people. To know Bob, was to love him.
But the intense pain isn't just about the passing of this strong, wonderful man; its about the hole that is left in so many lives…his wife, daughter, grandchildren, family, and the hundreds of people who called him friend. I look at our own lives, my husband and me, and see this large, gapping hole that bleeds so profusely I can't even imagine how it will ever heal. It is true what they say about death being painful for the ones left behind; for this is a pain I wish for no one.
It is during these moments you realize the frailty of life and how fortunate you are or have been. You look at your loved ones and pray you never devastate them in this same way…knowing full well it will happen one day. I look at Bob's family and what lies ahead of them and pray I never have to face that…recognizing I've been fortunate, but it could just as easily be me.
Since January, 2016, as a family we have suffered a great deal of personal loss. 5 weeks ago we lost our favorite and treasured Uncle, another humble and honorable man, and of course our wounds are still quite raw and open from that. But losing Bob has taken us over the top. How does one recover?
The fullness of this month's New Moon appears early Sunday morning, July 23rd. As we continue to move through this month of spiritual movement, embrace the absence of Grandmother Moon's light and instead, reveal to yourself and all who see you the light that glows within your heart and soul; your essence. Each of us enters this world, this life, with our own flame of life and light; the flame and light of love. We often witness it in the faces of babies and young children; sometimes called the look of innocence. We continue to carry that flame all through our lives; but unfortunately, all too often we forget it is there, and instead look outside ourselves for that ever elusive light of love.
Use this time of darkness to grow and glow your own light of love. Allow it to light your way. If you find yourself feeling lost, out of balance, confused or depressed, take a moment to quiet your mind. Then, reaching deep within you, feel the warmth, comfort and strength of your own brilliant light. Allow the light to expand outward, lighting everything in your presence, including you.
If you want to continue your spiritual movement now and throughout the remainder of this year, grow your own flame and light of love. It will help burn away those hours of darkness. The basis of your future is all up to you.
Back in the day, when the Original People lived in tepees, longhouses, pueblos or other types of homes and dwellings, this was the full moon of ripened berries (e.g., strawberries, blueberries, and blackberries), green leaves and the beginning of hot, sunny days. It is a time of growing abundance; of food sources, warm weather, freedoms to hunt and roam the lands, of available water to drink, bathe, cook and use. And, it comes during the month of the Summer Solstice.
The 3-days of June's Full Moon runs from Thursday, June 8th – Saturday, June 10th, and is about growth and the movement forward. Use the fullness of this time to see your full potential, and to prepare to set a coarse to reach that goal.
There will always be excuses available, if you simply don't want to take responsibility for your own health, happiness, peace and contentment.
Make this the Full Moon that moved you to begin the process of reshaping the person and life you want to be and live.
June is a month for revelations. Dictionary.com defines revelations this way … something revealed or disclosed, especially a striking disclosure, as of something not before realized. The Universe has a way of presenting to each of us exactly what we need to know or experience so we can continue on our journey of self-awareness, self-discovery and conscious living. These revelations come when we are open to truth and honesty within ourselves. When we are willing to listen and hear a different voice, perhaps a 'voice of reason', speak words with a different message, or provide a different 'slant' or view that reaches something within you. It is a moment of discovery; of a revelation.
Too often we stay stuck in our position, opinion or idea of how things or people ought to be. Throughout our lives we have responded and reacted to people and events based on those deeply coded positions, opinions and ideas. We often have beliefs that have been with us throughout our lives, and maybe have served us well. But what about those times when they leave you feeling less than honest? Less comfortable? Miserable? Embarrassed? Maybe even a little ashamed?
How many times in the last year have you questioned yourself about how you were feeling after you reacted to a stressful, disappointing or personally intimidating event? How many times, in the past year, have you found yourself in a joyful, lighthearted, upbeat frame of mind, only to be brought down by some event or some other person's actions, deeds or words? And, how did you respond? Did you carry the attitude with you for awhile?
Negative energy, and negativity, isn't as easy to shed as it used to be, back when you were a kid and life seemed a little easier. As you move through the month of June, you may find yourself feeling bombarded by negativity. As though a continuous storm of chaos, hatred, selfishness and narcissism has somehow descended upon our beautiful planet Earth. No matter where you turn, it is there…feeding on the reactions of pent up fear, anxiety, frustration and hostility here and around the globe. This negative energy is so prevalent, it sometimes goes unnoticed…as though it has become the norm. So, maintaining a positive state of mind and attitude can be difficult at best.
Through this month of June, take the time to reveal to yourself and to others the opposite energy. The energy of positivity. June is a time of celebrations, e.g., graduations, weddings, Father's Day, warm weather, picnics and parties. Can you carry that same uplifting, celebratory energy with you? Look around you.
What is it that moves you into that place of negativity?
When experiencing your own sense of negativity, where does it come from?
Is it coming from old beliefs or does it feel personal?
Who among your friends, family and co-workers tends to lift your mood?
Who among them tends to darken your mood?
What is the quickest way for you to pull yourself out of a negative mood or situation?
What can you do this month that will move you towards your own personal revelations?
What part of conscious living do you practice?
Can you listen without judgment?
Are you willing to hear an opposite viewpoint?
Can you accept without prejudice another's opinion?
Can you drop the idea that you are, of course, right?
Can you honestly, openly and truthfully question your own ideas and beliefs, while looking at what others hold as their own ideas and beliefs?
As we wind down the month of May and head into Memorial Weekend here in the USA, the light in our nighttime sky begins to disappear for a few short evenings, and prepares a space for each of us to go deep within our own personal darkness.
Darkness should not be considered a bad or scary place; even though movies seem to always paint it as a place where demons, monsters and horrors hide. Instead, think of the darkness as a thick, warm blanket of empty possibilities and potentiality. As a blanket, every aspect of you is wrapped in its boundless ethereal space, providing an unlimited expanse for you to be present, create and/or release that which you no longer choose to endure or entertain.
Wednesday, May 24th, is the start of May's 3-days of the New Moon.
Take some time to embrace the quiet power of this New Moon.
Give yourself permission to view the darkness inside and outside your sphere of existence.
Feel the differences between the 2, then allow them to merge in and around you.
Surrender your thoughts while you open your heart.
Relax your muscles as you quiet your breath.
Now, slowly and patiently, allow all of the Universal Healing Energies to move in, around and through you; synchronizing your Body, Mind, Spirit and Soul with the natural flow and rhythm of Mother Earth, Grandmother Moon and the heavenly celestrial bodies.
What are you passionate about? Do you have a passion? Is it for a cause? A sport? Politics? A religious belief? Family? Friends? Work? What is it that gets your heart pumping and feeds you with adrenaline? Has it changed over the years or remained the same? Does it have the same intensity today as it did 3 years ago?
Experience tells me that passion can rise and fall, like the ebb and flow and tides of great waters. Each time the tide rolls in to meet the shore, it brings with it a different intensity. With strong winds behind it, it may come crashing loudly onto the shoreline. When accompanied by more gentle breezes, the surf appears more tranquil in nature, softly reaching the shore and slowly, methodically ebbing back into its waters. In many ways, April will reflect that same ebb and flow.
To awaken Mother Earth to her fullest, the waters (her blood) must be able to flow freely in and around her. The coldness held in the roots of the trees and other vegetation must be warmed and nurtured by the sun, and nourished by her waters. April is a month of passion; the passion of washing away the slumber of the old season and preparing the way for the awakening, growth and freshness of the new season. Each season comes to us fresh and new, but it is that time of transitioning where you can begin to witness and experience Mother Nature's intense passion; e.g., in her storms, tornadoes, hurricanes, earthquakes, mudslides, and flooding.
During this month of April, you may find an awakening happening deep within you; an arising passion for your own Self and well-being. With Venus in retrograde, you may find your subconscious randomly dragging up memories of relationships and emotional events from your past. Be aware of them. Like the waters of Mother Earth, allow them to ebb and flow within you, waking up and washing away any old, negative, destructive emotions, and letting in (or replacing it with) healthy, new, nurturing emotions and sensations. Give yourself permission to move beyond the hurts and wounds of the past and instead, arouse the passion within you to stand in the place of health, healing and happiness.
Throughout the month of April, continue to explore your passion. Do you live each day with passion? Even if you are stuck in a boring, dead-end job, go to work committed to doing your best. If you are engaged and present in everything that you do, and if you do your work with a sense of pride, regardless of what it is, you will lift yourself up out of the doldrums and find pleasure in the present.
Take a moment to examine those things you are passionate about.
Has your priorities or interests changed over the years?
What passions are you engaged in now?
What were you engaged in, in the past?
Are you passionate about your health?
What will you do to engage more deeply?
Tomorrow marks the beginning of spring here in the northern hemisphere. It is a time when the northern hemisphere starts to tilt towards the sun, creating longer days and shorter nights. Hence, Vernal means new or fresh, and Equinox literally means equal night. Spring will officially arrive at 6:29am in the Eastern Time Zone! And to that I say, HURRAY!
People have celebrated the Vernal Equinox throughout the centuries. The Egyptians built a huge sphinx that would face the rising sun each year on this equinox. And, Christians use this day to figure out when Easter will occur. Easter always falls on the first Sunday after the first Full Moon following the Vernal Equinox.
This is a time when people start feeling the need to clean out drawers and closets, sweep out the dust and cobwebs, and throw open the windows and doors to blow out the stale, old season of winter, and usher in the fresh, new season of spring. Fields get plowed, gardens get planted, and people begin embracing the smells and sounds of Mother Nature. It is an exhilarating time.
Make a point to celebrate the changing of seasons. Head outside before you start your busy day or settle in for the evening. Give thanks for the dawning of this new season. This doesn't have to take too long; you can do this in 5 minutes…showing a little gratitude for the blessings of your life and the newness of the spring season.
Make a little fire. Fire is symbolic of change; the transmuting of one thing to another. This fire doesn't have to be large. I make mine in an abalone shell using a little sage, cedar and sweet grass.
Make a little offering. You may want to write a few words about what you are grateful for or what you want to release to the darkness of winter. I use tobacco; placing a bit of tobacco in my left hand, I speak my words of gratitude and humility. I use my left hand because it is closest to my heart, so all my thoughts and intentions are infused into the tobacco.
Give your offering to the fire. When ready, place your offering in the fire and watch your thoughts, words and emotions rise up to the Creator where they will be heard, understood and acted upon. At this point, I place my tobacco into the fire, or smoldering embers, and watch the smoke rise to the heavens.
Let the fire burn out completely. Try not to create a fire so large that you have to douse it with water to put it out. Instead, let the fire burn out completely before you end your ceremony.
End your ceremony. Return the ashes from your fire to Mother Earth. Give thanks to Mother Earth for making your ceremony possible. I give thanks for the sage, cedar, sweet grass, tobacco, fire and shell, and for all she has given me. I thank her for awakening to this new season of freshness and growth, and for the time of slumber.
Make this a time of sweet renewal. If winter was difficult, let it go; it is behind you. Turn to the east and welcome spring.


There's an old economic saying: a rising tide lifts all boats. Problem is, most people can't afford a boat.
Most people can't afford a lot of stocks, bonds, or real estate, either. But the few who can afford what economists call capital are racing even further ahead of the many who can't. It's what Nobel prize-winning economist Robert Solow calls the "rich-get-richer" principle, and it's how capitalism usually works.
We know this, because French economist Thomas Piketty has assembled hundreds of years worth of data on wealth and income inequality showing it. His monumental, best-selling new book, "Capital in the Twenty-First Century, makes a startlingly simple argument: if the return on capital, r, is greater than the economy's growth rate, g, as it almost always has been, then inequality will tend to increase. That's because wealth grows faster than wages when r>g, and only the rich have much wealth to begin with.
Now, this dynamic won't make inequality increase forever; it will stop once the ratio of capital to income is the same as the ratio of savings to growth. But in the meantime, the top 1 percent will gobble up more and more wealth—and leave it to their kids.
Here's how we got here, and four things we can to do stop it from getting worse.
Periods of low income inequality, Piketty claims, are just a historical blip. Going back to the 1800s, the rate of return has typically been around 4 to 5 percent, and growth has been far less. Capital-income ratios were high then, so this r>g meant that wealth begat dynastic wealth.
But this, like everything else, changed with World War I. The fighting didn't just destroy a generation. It also destroyed capital—buildings, factories, and government bonds paid back in inflated currency—on a mass scale. Rentiers no longer had the income to support their aristocratic lifestyles, so they started spending down their remaining wealth to do so. Not only that, but countries were forced to resort to steep income taxes to finance their war efforts. Now, governments tried to return to economic normalcy in the 1920s, but the Great Depression and then World War II ended that. There was even more capital destruction. Even more confiscatory taxes. And even more regulation.
Then the Reagan-Thatcher revolution happened. Tax rates, inflation, and regulations were all cut, raising returns. But this second Gilded Age was different from the first, at least at the start. It wasn't about wealth growing faster than wages. It was about wages at the very top growing so fast that they were wealth. In other words, the owners of capital didn't cause our increasing income inequality. The managers of capital, the MBA class of CEOs and Wall Streeters, did. For now, at least. Today's "supermanagers," as Piketty calls them, will be tomorrow's rentiers. Just wait a generation, and we might be back to a world dominated by inherited wealth.
Or we might not. Piketty has demonstrated that the rate of return has historically been 4 to 5 percent, but he hasn't demonstrated why. Without a theory to explain it, we can't really say if it will continue. Sure, the long-term trend—and it is long—could go on. But it could also be that, in the future, more capital will mean higher wages and lower returns. That the rate of return will fall more than growth.
But that's probably not a gamble we want to take. The IMF, hardly a bastion of populism, has found that high levels of inequality are correlated with slower growth, and redistribution, within reasonable limits, with faster and more durable growth. Income inequality has also been associated with life expectancy inequality, though, again, it's not clear which way the causation runs. And, perhaps most worryingly, concentrated economic power could turn into concentrated political power, entrenching economic power, in what Ezra Klein dubs a "doom loop of oligarchy." Actually, as my colleague Larry Bartels points out, that might already be here: studies show that the rich have 15 times more influence on policy as average people.
So what is to be done? Well, there are four basic strategies: increase growth, decrease pre-tax returns, decrease post-tax returns, or help the 99 percent do better in a r>g world.
There are easy ways and then there are hard ways to increase growth. The easiest is just to let more people into the country. The calculus is simple: more workers means more GDP (which makes past wealth a smaller piece of the pie). Specifically, the CBO estimates that immigration reform would increase the size of the economy by 5.4 percent in 2033.
The other way to add people, of course, is to try to make life easier for parents, so they can work more and have more kids. That's not as easy, but it is doable—and it comes down to day care. Reihan Salam points out more mothers started working in Quebec after it introduced subsidized child care in 1997. And France, unlike most of its European peers, has pushed its birthrate back up near replacement level in large part because of its system of parental tax breaks and day-care centers (or "crèches").
The hard way to increase growth is to make our workers more productive—that is, to improve education. That could mean adopting Common Core standards. Or charter schools. Or school vouchers. Or vocational training. Or more—and smarter—college aid.
2. Less rent-seeking and more bargaining power for workers. And more houses.
Growth alone, though, won't be enough to save us from a plutocratic future if returns stay around 4 or 5 percent. We'll need to do more, need to cut those returns in some way. And we should start by going after the excessive returns hurting the economy.
Zoning probably isn't the first thing you think about when you think about rent-seeking, but it should be. NIMBY ("not-in-my-backyard") regulations—looking at you, San Francisco—prevent building where there's the most demand for it. The result is a policy-induced housing shortage in our cities that drives up prices and rents, and creates the kind of sprawl that keeps lower-income workers away from job opportunities. Piketty's best data on this comes from France, where things are even worse than they are here: housing rent as a share of national income has almost doubled there the past 30 years. Luckily, though, there's a simple enough way to cut these returns to housing: build more houses where people want them.
Drug and intellectual patents are another source of rent-seeking. Economist Dean Baker points out that these government-granted monopolies make up a sizable chunk of corporate profits, and are almost certainly too generous.
To take one example, Nexium costs $215 in the U.S., and just $23 in the Netherlands. Now, pharmaceutical and tech companies would say they need these temporary monopolies to give them an incentive to invest in R&D, but they might not be temporary enough. Nobel prize-winning economist Joseph Stiglitz thinks our patent laws might actually be hurting innovation by taking ideas out of the usable pool of knowledge for too long. So loosening patent protections wouldn't just make these outsized returns a bit less so; it might speed up growth, too.
Mega-profits aren't just about rent-seeking. They're also about the balance of power between capital and labor—which isn't so much a balance anymore as a war that capital has won. Indeed, the labor share of business income has fallen to a 60-year low during our not-so-great recovery. Part of that is due to big-picture trends like technology and globalization.
But part of it is due to policy. A higher minimum wage, for example, would, according to the CBO, raise aggregate incomes for households making less than $87,000 and lower them for households making more. That's because it would have a cascading effect on wages, raising them for middle-class workers too, which would eat into corporate profits. Making it easier to unionize could do the same.
But crony capitalism isn't causing r>g. Capitalism itself is. Cracking down on rent-seeking can help at the margins, but, if Piketty is right, we're going to have to do more to stop an inequality spiral.
And the absolute least we can do is beefing up the estate tax. France, again, has the best data here, going all the way back to the early 1800s. As you can see below, inheritance is making a slow-motion comeback there, up to 15 percent of national income from a postwar low of 4 percent.
It probably isn't this high in the U.S., because of our population growth—but give it time. Today's supermanagers will have tomorrow's trust-funders, and so on, and so on. Unless we start taxing estates more. That should include getting rid of the step-up basis in capital gains, which saves heirs from taxes that their parents would have had to pay. The Committee for A Responsible Federal Budget estimates that this tax break will cost the government about $50 billion a year in revenue through 2017.
Piketty, of course, wants a global tax on net wealth—that is, subtracting mortgages and any other debts. His admittedly utopian plan would have three tax brackets: 0 percent for households with less than €1 million ($1.39 million) of net wealth, 1 percent for households with between $1.39 million and $6.95 million, and 2 percent for households above that. The virtue of such a system is it would be a tax on idle capital more than invested capital, since it hits both equally. The vice, other than the impracticality of getting governments to cooperate on it, is that it would incentivize going into debt to reduce your tax liability.
More realistically, we could just increase marginal tax rates. Piketty and Nobel prize-winning economist Peter Diamond have said that a top rate as high as 73 percent could be "optimal," because high-earners don't get as much benefit from an extra dollar as low-earners do. The question, though, is how much that would hurt growth. It's possible that high-earners would respond by working less; if not "going Galt," at least going on vacation. But it's also possible that it wouldn't have much effect. So many high-paying jobs have become winner-take-all that there's still a strong incentive to work long hours even if taxes go up.
If r really is greater than g, now and forever, it's a powerful argument for helping the 99 percent own more stock. Arpit Gupta frames this as an argument for Social Security privatization, in particular, but I don't think that's right. It's not just that transitioning to private accounts would be costly. Or that it would introduce timing risk—of retiring during a market meltdown. It's that we don't know if Piketty is right about the future, so we shouldn't plan our pension system around it. But we should insure against the possibility. That could mean expanding Social Security with a general pool that invests in stocks—basically a sovereign wealth fund—and then makes guaranteed payouts. In fact, Piketty himself proposed something like that in France a few years ago.
Past doesn't have to be prologue. The logic of r>g pushes us towards greater inequality, but we can push back. We don't know how hard we'll have to push, but we should get ready to.
Otherwise, if you want a picture of the future, imagine Paris Hilton's stiletto-heeled boot stamping on a human face—forever.


text:
Lawsuit Filed Against Epstein-Linked Judge Who Allowed Trump FBI Raid
Judge Who Approved Trump FBI Raid Learns His Fate
(RepublicanJournal.org) – Judge Bruce Reinhart received a lot of attention after giving the FBI permission on August 8 to execute a search warrant at former President Donald Trump's property in Palm Beach, Florida. Some people believe the magistrate did not act impartially while approving the search. In fact, they think it was downright unethical.
On August 16, Tea Party Patriots Action CEO Jennifer Martin filed a complaint against Reinhart, calling for his removal due to "alleged political biases" against the previous US leader.
Conservative Org Files Complaint Against Florida Judge Who Approved Mar-A-Lago Raid https://t.co/UYZjMghVAL via @dailycaller
— Dave Koffer (@KofferDave) August 26, 2022
The submission points to anti-Trump social media posts by the judge from 2016 supporting the group's allegations. The papers also recount how Reinhart recused himself from a case involving Russian collusion accusations against the former president by then-presidential candidate Hillary Clinton for a "conflict of interest."
Martin questioned the judge's ethics by highlighting the time he defended employees of convicted pedophile Jeffrey Epstein after quickly switching from the prosecution side — raising eyebrows.
The group made mention of previous contributions the judge made to former President Barack Obama's campaign in 2008, perhaps giving credence to some political leanings. However, Reinhart has a more recent history of giving money to both sides of the political aisle, including the Trump Make America Great Again Committee.
Overall, the organization feels the judge is partisan, having signed the search warrant simply because he doesn't like the former commander-in-chief.


text:
Drug Disposal Pouches to be Distributed in Shelby County
The Shelby County Drug Free Coalition and other community partners are making Deterra® drug disposal pouches available at no cost to residents of Shelby County as part of drug take back and safe disposal efforts.
The launch of the safe-disposal program will coincide with National Drug Take Back Day October 23. Drug Take Back Day is promoted by the Drug Enforcement Agency as a way to safely remove unwanted and unused prescription medications from homes, to prevent theft, abuse and accidental poisoning.
Distribution points are being set up throughout Shelby County, and include: Senior Center of Sidney, Fair Haven, The Meal Prep Life, Wilson Health, Bunny's Pharmacy, Family Resource Center, Jackson Center Pharmacy, and the Sidney-Shelby County Health Department. Other agencies also participating include: STAR House, Samaritan Works, Mercy Mission House, Shelby County Veterans Services, Botkins Village Hall and Jackson Center Village Hall. The Shelby County Sheriff's Office and the Sidney Police Department, including the Sidney Addiction Assistance Team, will make the disposal bags available along with the drug take-back drop boxes in their respective lobbies.
The Deterra® pouches use activated charcoal and water to dissolve and deactivate a wide range of medications, including fentanyl, ketamine, quetiapine, tramadol, and zolpidem. Unlike most drug take-back drop boxes, which will only accept pills or powders, the pouches can also neutralize creams, liquids, patches and films. Once in the bag and deactivated, the substances cannot be absorbed by the body, even if ingested. They are also prevented from entering the ecosystem, as can happen when flushing or disposing in landfills without a deactivating process.
Shelby County Commissioner Julie Ehemann said: "Shelby County is excited to be launching a project utilizing Deterra® pouches, which can rid any home of dangerous, leftover drugs in minutes. Our goal is to reduce the risk of abuse, misuse and accidental ingestion of leftover medication, especially prescription opioids."
The pouches were obtained through the Rx Abuse Leadership Initiative and Shelby County Department of Job & Family Services at not cost to the county. The Rx Abuse Leadership Initiative (RALI) convenes national, state and community leaders to exchange best practices and provide resources that help prevent misuse of prescription medicines.
The Tri-County Board of Recovery and Mental Health Services maintains a list of area drug take-back drop boxes on its website at www.tcbmds.org/disposal.
Darke County Commissioners Endorse Mental Health Levy Renewal
Seated, l-r, Commissioners Matt Aultman, Mike Stegall, Larry Holmes. Standing, l-r Brad Reed, Director of Community Resource Development for the Tri-County Board of Recovery and Mental Health Services; Tri-County Board members Dennis Butts, Terrance Holman, Mandy Martin, and Jason Wagner; Terri Becker, Executive Director; and Steve McEldowney, Director of Finance and Administration.
Darke County Commissioners at their session Monday October 4 2021 endorsed the Tri-County Mental Health levy renewal with a Proclamation of Support.
The Tri-County Mental Health & Recovery levy is a 0.6 mill, 5-year renewal to provide ongoing funding for counseling and supportive services to children and adults through the operation of alcohol and drug addiction programs and mental health programs. Levy funds are administered by the Tri-County Board of Recovery and Mental Health Services.
Tri-County Board Executive Director Terri Becker expressed her appreciation to the Commissioners for their support, saying, "The levy is a crucial part of the Board's funding that enables us to continue to address the mental health and addiction services needs in Darke County. The Commissioners are active partners in identifying local needs and solutions and we thank them for their endorsement."
Since 2006, the levy has passed with about 2 of 3 voters in Darke, Miami and Shelby counties supporting. More information about the renewal can be found at www.YESforMentalHealth.com.
Tri-County Board, OACBHA Honor Front-Line Heroes
The Tri-County Board of Recovery & Mental Health Services marked September 20-26 as a Week of Appreciation to recognize workers on the front lines of the pandemic-related mental health and addiction crisis.
Week of Appreciation is a statewide event coordinated by the Ohio Association of County Behavioral Health Authorities, which provided grants to help local behavioral health Boards honor first responders (police, fire and EMT personnel), public safety, public health, educators, hospital staff, crisis services workers, volunteers for Quick Response Teams, and others who have helped save lives and build resiliency amid the ongoing overdose and mental health crisis made worse by the coronavirus pandemic.
Tri-County Board Executive Director Terri Becker said: "So many of our frontline workers have been directly impacted, and we don't have enough opportunities to thank them. Week of Appreciation is a chance to recognize their hard work and to just give a little bit of encouragement and thanks for all they do to keep our families safe and healthy."
Board staff logged more than 600 miles delivering appreciation packages to about 150 locations throughout Miami, Darke and Shelby Counties. The packages included a poster personalized for each organization, a copy of the Board's resolution, and a red plastic bucket of mints imprinted with the message "Thank you for being lifesavers."
The Board also purchased billboard space on I-75 between Piqua and Sidney. The billboard mirrors the poster design and says "Thank you – law enforcement, fire-EMT, public safety, public health, educators, health care, essential workers."
SafeHaven Reopening Plan
Since March 18th, SafeHaven had not been able to open for attendance due to COVID-19 regulations in Ohio, but we have been blessed to have the opportunity to deliver meals and offer virtual support groups and technology wellness check-ins for many of our members. NOW, we have exciting news. SafeHaven will be re-opening under the Responsible RestartOhio regulations on Wednesday, June 10th, 2020! SafeHaven is ready and excited to welcome all of our members back, and we're ready to do so in a safe manner to protect one another, following mandatory practices set by Ohio government.
Our SafeHaven locations in Darke, Miami, and Shelby Counties have our buildings designed to meet and exceed the health safety requirements, including social distancing seating arrangements, one-way hallways/pathways, verbal health screenings before entry, increased cleaning procedures, added hand sanitation stations, provided masks for employees and members, and more. During this phase of social distanced-opening, our transportation will not be available for riders. But, SafeHaven will be open for attendance with our structured day of support groups, educational classes, meals, social activities, and more three (3) days per week at each site, and will continue cooking/packaging/delivering meals and providing virtual support four (four) days per week at each site.
Miami County's site will re-open with special regulations on Wednesday, June 10th from 11am to 4pm, and will continue each Monday, Wednesday, and Friday until further restrictions are eased. Meal deliveries and virtual support will continue to be available each Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday. Call 937.615.0126 or email safehavendouglas@woh.rr.com for more information.
Darke County's site will re-open with special regulations on Thursday, June 11th from 11am to 4pm, and will continue each Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday until further restrictions are eased. Meal deliveries and virtual support will continue to be available each Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday. Call 937.548.7233 or email safehavendouglas@woh.rr.com for more information.
Shelby County's site will re-open with special regulations on Friday, June 12th from 11am to 4pm, and will continue each Monday, Tuesday, and Friday until further restrictions are eased. Meal deliveries and virtual support will continue to be available each Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday. Call 937.658.6930 or email safehavendouglas@woh.rr.com for more information.
See www.safehaveninc.com for more information about all of the services we offer to adults in need of mental health support across Darke, Miami, and Shelby Counties. SafeHaven would like to thank our funders: Tri-County Board of Recovery and Mental Health Services, Shelby County United Way, United Way of Miami County, Darke County United Way, Troy Foundation, Community Foundation of Shelby County, Miami County Foundation, and Piqua Foundation.
Accessing mental health services during the coronavirus pandemic
By adapting their businesses to rapidly changing condition, the area's mental health and addictions provider agencies have been able to meet the needs of clients and an anxious public during the coronavirus pandemic.
Mental health crisis services are available, within the limits imposed on admission to public places such as jails and hospitals. Persons experiencing a mental health crisis, generally defined as severe, debilitating symptoms of anxiety or depression, loss of reality, or suicidal thoughts, should call the 24\7 Tri-County Crisis Hotline at 800-351-7347.
Persons who may be experiencing a crisis but can't don't want to talk may use the national Crisis Text Line by texting "4hope" to 741741.
Persons concerned about suicidal thoughts may also call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-TALK (8255). Talking about suicide is often the best way to prevent a suicide attempt.
Persons who are anxious but not in crisis may call the HOPE Line operated by SaveHaven Inc. The warm line - as opposed to a hotline for emergencies - allows people to talk about their concerns with a trained operator. The HOPE Line can be reached at 937-451-3232 or toll free at 855-276-HOPE (4673). Hours are Monday through Friday 4-11PM, and Saturday and Sunday 4-8PM.
Recovery and Wellness Centers of Midwest Ohio in Tipp City and Greenville asks that new or existing clients not come to the facility unless requested to do so, but rather call the central scheduling number, 937-423-6356, and to check the website, recoveryandwellnessohio.org for updates and information.
RWC Executive Director Cynthia Wion said their transition to alternative methods of meeting clients has gone relatively smoothly given the suddenness of the pandemic restrictions. "We can start clients with a phone call, email them the consent forms and other documents, and get them started without having to meet face to face." She added that many of RWC's professional staff are able to work from home.
Miami County Recovery Council in Troy requests that new and existing clients call the main number, 937-335-4543 ext 155, before coming to the office. More information and updates can be found at mcrcinc.org.
MCRC Executive Director Thom Grim said, "We are still here for people. We are being careful for staff who are on the front lines, but we are still providing services for those who need them." Grim said MCRC is mostly providing telephone and telehealth services when possible for the safety of clients and staff. He added that group therapy, which has been temporarily suspended due to restrictions on the size of gatherings, will soon resume through an online format.
At Family Resource Centers of Northwest Ohio's Sidney office, clinical services via telephone and video will be available soon, according to a notice posted to the organization's website by CEO John Bindas. Persons seeking services should call first at the Sidney office number, 937-710-4616, or FRC's hotline 888-936-7116. Additional information can be found at frcohio.com.
At Safehaven's three locations in Piqua, Greenville and Sidney, staff is available by phone and online, but on-site activities have been curtailed. Executive Director Doug Metcalfe, in statement circulated Wednesday, stated that while SafeHaven is unable to open to members, they are adapting services to provide meals to current members along with activities and online group meetings. Online support sessions will take place at 11:30AM, 1:00PM and 2:30PM, and will be site-specific.
SafeHaven staff is making daily outreach and wellness calls to members, and welcomes incoming calls for peer support in addition to the HOPE Line services. Payeeship services continue, except that appointments will be by phone only. For a complete rundown of services available to SafeHaven members, go to safehaveninc.com.
The Tri-County Board of Recovery and Mental Health Services has been closely monitoring updates from the Governor's office and the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services to help provide guidance to local providers of services.
For example, existing Medicaid rules do not allow agencies to bill for counseling services by telephone. However, once the scope of the pandemic became apparent, the Governor's office and OhioMHAS expressed a strong inclination toward services by phone. Tri-County Board Executive Director Terri Becker communicated to the provider agencies that, pending changes in Medicaid billing rules, the Board would use local mental health levy dollars within existing contracts to enable agencies to start providing services by phone as soon as they are ready to do so.
Tri-County Board staff are transitioning to work from home as much as possible. The Board office remains open for business but no members of the public are permitted into the office, in compliance with a directive from Miami County officials. Persons wishing to contact the Board office are requested to call 937-335-7727 and press 7 for a staff directory. More resources and information can be found at the Board's website www.tcbmds.org.
Family Resource Center expands mental health, addictions services in Sidney
Family Resource Center (FRC) is enhancing the array of mental health and addictions services available in Shelby County while it moves to its new location at 1101 N. Vandemark Road in Sidney, the current site of Shelby County Counseling Center.
FRC, which has been providing youth-oriented services out of its office on 2nd Avenue, will move current services to the Vandemark Road location in early August and expand its service array beginning in September. SCCC clients will continue to receive services from current SCCC staff and treatment providers in addition to having access to the expanded menu of services offered by FRC.
FRC will add a team of nurse practitioners, under the direction of Medical Director Dr. Richard Nockowitz, to its medical department beginning Sept.1. Dr. Nockowitz and his team are specialists in providing psychiatric care to children, youth and adults through telemedicine, which connects providers to clients via secure two-way video. Benefits of telemedicine include improved access to a wider array of services than can be provided in a physical location, cost effectiveness, improved quality of care, and meeting increasing patient demand.
Included in the full menu of services available to Shelby County residents will be: youth prevention programs, school navigators, intensive home-based services for families, comprehensive outpatient adult and youth mental health and addiction treatment, detox, crisis services, and expanded medication management services.
Mark McDaniel, Executive Director of the Tri-County Board of Recovery and Mental Health Services, pointed to the broad array of services brought to Shelby County by Family Resource Center. "The new and expanded services FRC brings to the Vandemark Road location helps the Tri-County Board of Recovery and Mental Health Services move closer to its strategic goal of establishing a Centralized Service Facility in Shelby County," McDaniel said. "We expect FRC's service array in Shelby County to continue to grow to meet the ever-changing needs of the community. The Tri-County Board welcomes this opportunity to ensure the most efficient and effective use of local mental health levy resources."
FRC Chief Executive Officer John Bindas said his recruitment of Dr. Nockowitz, a nationally-known lecturer on psychiatry and an expert in psychiatric diagnostics and psychopharmacology, "underscores our commitment to reshaping the scope and quality of services we want to deliver for the community."
Bindas explained the mission of Family Resource Center is "to provide specialized behavioral health services to individuals, children and families in our multi-cultural communities in order to strengthen family life and promote personal growth through treatment that works." He added, "The increasing need and demand for our services as well as the constantly changing health care industry will continue to present challenges and we will continue to adjust, always with quality client care as our central focus."
Mental Health First Aid classes FREE in May - Mental Health Month
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and to increase awareness of mental health in Darke, Miami and Shelby Counties, the Tri-County Board of Recovery and Mental Health Services is offering Mental Health First Aid classes to the public at no cost.
Mental Health First Aid Teaches:
Risk factors and warning signs of mental health concerns.
Information on depression, anxiety, trauma, psychosis, and substance abuse.
A 5-step action plan to help someone developing a mental health concern or in crisis.
Available evidence-based professional, peer, and self-help resources.
Adult Mental Health First Aid is appropriate for anyone who wants to learn how to help an individual who may be experiencing a mental health crisis or concern.
Youth Mental Health First Aid reviews the unique risk factors and warning signs of mental health problems in adolescents ages 12-18. It emphasizes the importance of early intervention and covers how to help an adolescent in crisis or experiencing a mental health challenge. The youth course is intended for anyone 16 years or older to learn how to help young people.
The Tri-County Board has training more than 500 individuals in Mental Health First Aid or Youth Mental Health First Aid since 2014.
Normally a $25 per person class, the 8-hour training is being offered at no cost in May. No special code is required, For more information and for links to register, go to www.tcbmds.org/mhfa. May dates and locations scheduled are:
Monday May 7, Troy
Thursday May 24, Sidney
Wednesday May 2, Sidney
Tuesday May 29, Troy
To arrange Mental Health First Aid training for groups or organizations, contact Ian Ridgeway, Prevention and Wellness Coordinator, RidgewayI@tcbmds.org, or call (937) 335-7727 ext 216.
Mental Health First Aid classes free in May
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and to increase awareness of mental health in Darke, Miami and Shelby Counties, the Tri-County Board of Recovery and Mental Health Services is offering Mental Health First Aid classes at no cost.
Normally a $25 per person class, the 8-hour training is being offered at no cost in May. Use the discount code "MHM when registering. For more information and for links to register, go to www.tcbmds.org/mhfa. May dates and locations scheduled are:
Wednesday May 31, Tri-County Board Training Room, Troy
Thursday May 18, Tri-County Board Training Room, Troy
Tuesday May 23, Edison Darke County, Greenville
Tri-County Board launches website, social media for One Wellness Place
The Tri-County Board has launched a website, Facebook page and Twitter account for One Wellness Place, a project currently under development by the Board. One Wellness Place is a public-private partnership for healthy living in Miami County and supporting services in Darke and Shelby Counties. It will house mental health and addiction service providers, public health, and an array of wraparound support services.
"It is important that we keep citizens in the Tri-County Board service area, our funding partners, and potential partners aware of updates," said Brad Reed, Director of Community Resource Development for the Tri-County Board. "There has been a lot of activity behind the scenes up until now. Since the groundbreaking and official project launch January 26, the pace will pick up, both on the fundraising side and the project planning and building side."
The website can be found at www.onewellnessplace.org. On Facebook and Twitter, the accounts are 1wellnessplace. The website contains descriptions of the project, timeline, service and funding partners, links to media clips, galleries of photos, and a link to the online giving page at The Troy Foundation for individuals who would like to donate. The site can be linked from the Tri-County Board website under the "Community" menu.
Coalition for a Health Darke County hosts 1st Community Outreach Event Oct 25
The Coalition for a Health Darke County is hosting its first Community Outreach Event Tuesday October 25 at 6:30pm at Romer's Catering, 118 East Main Street, Greenville. The event is free and open to the public.
The Coalition for a Healthy Darke County is leading the community in a collaborative effort to impact health, wellness and social issues. The Coalition has identified eight areas of focus: Elder Care & Services, Mental & Behavioral Health, Physical Health, Safety, Spiritual Health, Substance Abuse, Wellness, and Youth Education & Prevention.
The primary topic of the first Coalition meeting is heroin. Heroin isn't just a court or law enforcement issue. It encompasses physical, mental and spiritual health. Panelists will give an update on where the Coalition partners are in the fight against heroin in Darke County.
The event is sponsored by the Darke County Chamber of Commerce, Premier Health, Romer's, Tri-County Board of Recovery & Mental Health Services, Darke County United Way, and Wayne Healthcare.


diy rustic light fixtures rustic chandelier rustic chandeliers cheap attractive best diy rustic bathroom light fixtures.
light green bedroom light green bedroom dark green bedroom light mint green wall paint light green carpet wall color.
wayfair light fixtures light fixture lighting furniture lamp drum shaped wayfair farmhouse light fixtures.
4 light switch cover cornice insulated ivory satin 4 toggle light switch covers wall plates 4 way light switch plate.
retaining wall lights ac dc led deck step retaining wall light waterproof outdoor garden landscape stairs laminate flooring terrace lighting from retaining wall lights under capstone.
cute lamps for girls baby girl lamp shades lampshade google light 8 cute lamps for girls lighting direct chandelier lighting cute lamps for girls lighting fixtures for kitchen.
mid century lamp mid century modern table lamps with regard to lamp home design ideas prepare mid century table lamps for sale.
house of lights city of lights driving tour house christmas lights near me.
diy light switch covers how to cover your light switch covers diy light switch covers pinterest.
landscape lighting design ideas residential outdoor lighting design porch lighting ideas exterior entry lights residential indoor lighting outdoor party lights low voltage landscape lighting design id.


text:
Aldi expands into click and collect for first time
UK NewsPublished: Sept 14, 2020 Last Updated: Sept 14, 2020
The supermarket chain said it now plans to extend the programme to more customers in 'the coming weeks'.
Aldi Click and Collect
Aldi UK has expanded into click and collect services for the first time.
The supermarket chain has launched a trial for the service, which allows customers to place orders online before collecting from a store, at one branch in the Midlands.
However, it said it now plans to extend the programme to more customers in "the coming weeks".
It said the trial has seen store staff take shopping to the cars of customers who ordered online, in line with social distancing rules.
The German discounter said that, if the trial continues to be successful, it will be extended to more stores across the country.
It comes amid a surge in demand for online grocery orders following the pandemic.
Aldi and Lidl had been steadily growing their share of the UK grocery market until the pandemic but have now seen their growth outpaced by rivals with significantly larger online operations.
In May, Aldi revealed plans to deliver groceries to homes in the UK for the first time through a partnership with Deliveroo.
It said it is continuing to trial the rapid delivery service across stores in the East Midlands, London, Cambridge and Greater Manchester.
Giles Hurley, chief executive of Aldi UK & Ireland, said: "We know that more and more people want to access the high-quality, affordable food they know they can get at Aldi.
"This is yet another way we are innovating to make sure we best serve our existing customers and make Aldi's great products and unbeatable prices available to even more people."
Telford | 1 hour ago


no other specialised Protocol applies.
Why is this new Protocol being introduced?
streamline the management of proceedings that cannot be avoided through the frontloading of disclosure and the narrowing of issues in dispute.
To achieve its aims, the Protocol sets out information which is to be provided by creditors to debtors in the initial letter before claim (LBC), as well as the timescales, actions and follow up correspondence it expects the parties to comply with before a claim is issued.
Will LBC's have to change?
Enclosing an income and expenditure form.
What if a debtor does not respond within 30 days?
If no response is received within 30 days from the issue of the LBC, the creditor is free to issue a claim.
What if a debtor does respond within 30 days?
Requesting documentation from the Creditor to understand the debt.
A debtor has requested documentation from the creditor. What happens now?
provide a written explanation to the debtor as to why the requested documentation is not being provided.
The creditor cannot issue a claim less than 30 days after the above documentation and/or explanation has been provided. The creditor must also give 14 days' notice before a claim is issued.
A debtor is seeking advice. How long must the creditor wait for this advice to be obtained?
The debtor has to indicate on the Reply Form whether obtaining advice will take longer than 30 days and, if so, provide details. In such a case, the creditor must allow a reasonable amount of time for this advice to be obtained.
In any event, the creditor cannot issue a claim less than 30 days after a Reply Form has been received and must give 14 days' notice before doing so.
A debtor has not fully completed the Reply Form. How should the creditor proceed?
A partially completed Reply Form should be taken as an attempt by the debtor to engage with the matter. The creditor should attempt to contact the debtor to discuss the Reply Form, and obtain any additional information required to understand the debtor's position.
Again, the creditor cannot issue a claim less than 30 days after a Reply Form has been received and must give 14 days' notice before doing so.
A debtor is disputing all or part of the debt. Can the creditor issue the claim?
mediation using a third party mediator.
A debtor has proposed payment terms. How does a creditor respond?
Parties are expected to try to reach an agreement for payment of the debt based on the debtor's income and expenditure. If the debtor's proposal is accepted, then the creditor should not start proceedings while the agreement is active.
If the debtor were to breach a term of the agreement, such as defaulting on a payment, the creditor should send an updated LBC (complying with the Protocol again). However, documents need not be re-sent if they have been sent within the preceding 6 months.
If, on the other hand, the debtor's proposals are not accepted, then the creditor must inform the debtor of this in writing and give reasons for refusing the debtor's payment proposal.
If you have any concerns around the impact of the Protocol on your debt portfolio, or would like more information, we would be more than happy to talk to you.


BEAUTIFUL LAND LOT On The Alabama River - .79 acre of land with pecan trees and 123 feet of waterfront. On a bluff overlooking the river and only 30 minutes by water to Montgomery Riverfront. Dirt and gravel road access very well maintained. Lots of deer and wildlife. A gravel driveway has been laid, steps to the water installed and electricity has been run to the property.
Located on the Alabama River in the community of Fisherman's Bay, this waterfront property is ideal for a weekend retreat or permanent home site. Enjoy the easy access, established utilities, and expansive views of river frontage. Whether you enjoy fishing, bird watching, water sports, boating, hunting, kayaking, or just lounging on the porch, this property is nestled away on the Alabama River and will satisfy any outdoor loving person.


Discussion I completed level 1532. Why didn't the game advance me to level 1533?
I completed level 1532. Why didn't the game advance me to level 1533?
I completed level 1532 which was very hard,,,but subsequently the game did not move me up to level 1533. Why is that?
Can you move me to level 1533 via facebook?
Are you sure you are talking about Friends Saga? Because it doesn't have so much levels. If you are playing any other saga it might happen that you are on the last one and you need to wait for an update.
I hope you are having fun crushing candies 🍭 Greetings!
Hi @dc3591, can you please check to see if there are any stars on level 1532? In CC Soda Saga sometimes the avatar gets stuck and you have to replay the level and then refresh the game in order to advance. Also clear the history from wherever you are playing it because your history might still be showing you at the lower level.
@firebombmarkus, did you move the message from Friends Saga to here (CC Saga) because it's now in the right community?


A La Jolla physician and his teen-age son planned to board their flight for a trip to Israel Tuesday, in spite of violence occurring in the south of the country after a deadly terrorist attack near the resort town of Eilat last week.
"Those of us with strong connections to Israel go with the flow. It's not going to deter us. It's not going to deter our friends and relatives in Israel. … it's an unfortunate part of life," David Feifel, a professor of psychiatry and neuroscience at UCSD and a practicing physician, said in an interview Monday.
Feifel, 48, will meet with professional colleagues and give a talk in Jerusalem during his week-long stay, along with visiting brother, Marty, who lives in Eilat with his family. Feifel's son will stay in Israel for a year to study in a seminary, before beginning college.
Ariel Feifel, 18, said he isn't worried about traveling to Israel.
"No, I think it's important not to be concerned. I feel like it's our duty to go and support Israel. By going we show we are not afraid and we don't let these terrorists win, that's what they're trying to accomplish with these attacks and we can't let that happen," said Ariel, who has been to Israel a number of times before.
"There's a sense of comfort and safety when you go back to your homeland. This is the Jewish state and I've never felt out of place or afraid there, and I don't expect to this time," he said.
Eight Israelis died in Thursday's attacks on civilian buses and a car near Eilat. The Israeli military then launched attacks against suspected terrorists in Gaza, and rockets were fired from Gaza into Israel.
The New York Times reported Monday that a fragile cease-fire appeared to be taking hold between Israel and Hamas, which rules Gaza.
David Feifel said his family and friends were not hurt in the attacks, but the violence does take a psychological toll.
"Like all Israelis, it's a jarring experience psychologically. But like all Israelis, they know terrorism is a way of life and the threat is always there. While it jars them, they are determined to live normal lives. They go about their business. Thankfully, no close friends or relatives got injured in the attack, (but) it makes them think," Feifel said of last week's attacks and the subsequent rocket fire.
The son of Holocaust survivors, Feifel was born in Canada. After World War II, his parents helped establish the state of Israel, and later immigrated, after their first child, Feifel's older brother, was born. Feifel has lived in La Jolla since 1992 and is married with three children.
Feifel said he has been to Israel many times and feels it is generally a safe place, although he is also aware of the volatility of the region and the threat of terrorism.
Last summer, Feifel said, his daughter was in Israel when a rocket was fired toward Eilat, but landed in the Red Sea, near where she was participating in a youth program. This summer she returned to Israel to volunteer at a home for underprivileged youth.
The recent violence does give pause to the couple as their son prepares to spend a year in Israel, Feifel said. "There's always a risk this incident will be the beginning of something bigger," he said.
Ariel Feifel said he would be studying about Judaism in a small city near Jerusalem over the next year, as a way of strengthening his own personal connection to his faith. He said many Jewish teen-agers from the United States and other parts of the world take a year off after high school to either study or travel in Israel.
When he returns to the U.S., Ariel said, he will begin pre-med courses at Columbia University in New York. But for now, he's looking forward to his time in Israel.
His family is convinced the benefits of the experience will outweigh the risks.
"It's always such an incredibly positive experience for the youth, we wouldn't dream of denying him this opportunity," David Feifel said.


For the past 5 weeks or so, we have been uncovering quite a bit about Microsoft's next update to Windows, internally called Threshold, and since then, we have received a couple a copious amounts of emails and pings on Twitter about the update, and as we have learned more, we want to help clarify some of the common items we keep getting asked.
Is the Charms bar really dead?
Do you have any whiskey handy? If you do, pour one out. On the desktop, in the current builds, the Charms bar is dead and it is moving inside the modern apps. Currently, the Charms functionality is moving inside modern apps to a button in the header bar. The location of the new 'charms' area is subject to change and for those apps that are dependent on the Charms bar, don't be surprised if you see Microsoft politely ask them to adjust their functionality to fit with the new style.
We haven't heard anything about Metro 2.0, are they not updating the modern UI?
Here's the thing with the updated modern UI. There will be changes and new features, Microsoft is still keeping it a bit close to the chest but we are starting to hear whispers about what all will be included on the touch-side of the OS. Know that there will be updates but we are not quite ready to crack open this nut, yet.
Is it really coming this fall?
The current builds of Windows Threshold have a new watermark that no longer refers to the build as Windows 8.1 and that it is now a 'preview' build. This aligns to how Windows 8 was released, and we fully believe that this is what Microsoft will do based on our own sources as well as what others are saying. The fact that builds are now referred to as a preview means that Microsoft is gearing up to let outsiders use the build.
I thought the Start menu was coming back to Windows 8, why has this changed?
Is Windows Threshold going to be called Windows 9?
Most believe that Windows Threshold will be called Windows 9, but there is still a small fraction of the enthusiast community who thinks that this will be called Windows 8.2 or something along those lines. It is of our belief that this update will be called Windows 9. By the time that Windows 9 is ready for release for all consumers (RTM) Windows 8 will be about 3 years old, so it seems logical that a new name is warranted. We have also heard that Microsoft is doing everything it can to get away from Windows 8 as quickly as possible since it has not been well received with consumers.
Apple hasn't put Siri on the desktop, why should Microsoft put Cortana on its desktop?
Simple, Microsoft wants Cortana on all of its key platforms including Xbox. Cortana's ambitions go far beyond that of what Apple is doing with Siri and you can already see this with how quickly Microsoft is adding features to the mobile platform. By bringing Cortana to the desktop, they will also be adding millions of users to its data pool so that it can make the service even better. More so, Cortana will eventually be able to interact cross-platform as well and it could serve as the data-link, much like OneDrive to tie services together. Imagine being on your Xbox and saying "Cortana, set a reminder to call my wife at 10 A.M" and magically, the reminder shows up on your desktop, your phone and your tablets that are running Windows Threshold.
These are just a few of the questions that we have been receiving over the past few weeks about Threshold, and if you have any more let us know in the comments below, or you can reach out to us on Twitter or Facebook.


Why Buy Brushed Back Satin by Miss Elaine?
The Miss Elaine Petite Brushed Back Satin Striped Long Sleeve PJ 411148DP has a cottony soft interior, with gleaming satin outside and includes a button-front pajama top and matching pajama bottoms. Miss Elaine's Petite Brushed Back Satin Striped Long Sleeve PJ is made of polyester/cotton.


Photos taken by Stephen Poff Yesterday, TMI went down to speak with protestors at the Montgomery airport. Arriving right before dusk, proud platoons of protestors were picketing behind red tape as airplanes took off into the sky. The protesters were loud and could be heard before they were seen. In mixed company, the sqaud band together in unison. They were chanting phrases resembling those that … Continue reading Why Are You Protesting?