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Open the Initiative
By Brian Proffitt on October 17, 2007, 21:46 | Permalink | Comments (2)
When the Open Source Initiative decided to approve two licenses submitted by Microsoft (the Microsoft Public License (Ms-PL) and the Microsoft Reciprocal License (Ms-RL)), Michael Tiemann, President of the OSI, also decided to give an explanation about it on his OSI blog.
Right away, this struck me as unusual--I don't recall other newly approved licenses getting their own explanations from the OSI president. But, oh, right, we're talking about two Microsoft licenses, aren't we?
In his explanation, Tiemann took the tack that to deny a hostile company the right to their own open source licenses would make the open source community a bunch of hypocrites and deny Microsoft the chance to become enlightened in the ways of open source. This is not a bad argument to take, because it takes the moral high road to justify the OSI's decision.
But some questions still remain unanswered. Brandioch Conner, a frequent commenter on Linux Today, put the best one right out there: what gap did these licenses fill?
So, forgetting all the nonsense about Microsoft for a moment, let's put the question out there: why, given the OSI's repeated public stance on reducing license proliferation, did they feel it necessary to increase the number of OSI-approved licenses? What is so unique about these licenses (other than their author) that makes them worthy of being added to the list?
Russ Nelson, the License Approval Chair, gives little clues on his own blog entry, save to jibe other licenses en passant:
"These licenses are refreshingly short and clean, compared to, say, the GPLv3 and the Sun CDDL. Like Larry Rosen's pair of licenses (the Academic Free License and Open Software License), they share a patent peace clause, a no-trademark-license clause, and they differ between each other only in the essential clause of reciprocation."
That was... not very helpful, Russ. In fact, I have an additional question: why is it that such license discussions are not made open themselves? Are the minutes of OSI board meetings available to the public? The OSI "is a California public benefit corporation, with 501(c)3 tax-exempt status, founded in 1998," according to their Web site. Wouldn't a public benefit corporation need to make their dealings transparent?
There needs to be, I believe, a release of the discussions about any new license. It was indicated that a majority of the board approved these licenses. How much of a majority? How many members disapproved of the licenses? Did anyone abstain?
Also, if the OSI is indeed the defender of the Open Source Definition, and is making strides on reducing license proliferation, then can we see a list of licenses that the OSI has not approved over the last year? Two? Five years? Were any licenses turned down?
I am, most emphatically, not accusing the OSI or any of its board members of any wrong doing. But given the promise of non-proliferation of licenses, it seems that the OSI either cannot live up to that promise. Maybe it was a promise they should have never made.
More importantly, I believe the OSI has lost a lot of the community's faith by approving these particular licenses. And yes, the licenses' author has a lot to do with it. I think that to restore the community's faith and build that trust back up, a little more openness in procedures is a needed thing.
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There is a very good choice of Umbrella Companies for IT Contractors.
There are more than 200,000 contractors using them now.
Umbrella companies allow contractors inside IR35 to keep a bit more of the money they earn than if they paid the IR35 tax.
Recently the Government changed the IR35 rules for the public sector. Previously IT Contractors could decide their IR35 status by themselves.
If they got it wrong they could come under investigation by HMRC. This could end up in the contractors paying tens of thousands of pounds in back tax, penalties and interest.
However, the chances of an investigation for IR35 are less than them being hit by lightning.
And HMRC lose the vast majority of the cases they bring anyway.
So, most IT contractors still incorporate and take out IR35 insurance in the event that they do come under investigation.
However, in the public sector they can no longer determine their IR35 status.
The Government's IR35 rule changes mean that it is the Government department who now decide the contractor's IR35 status.
HMRC have created a new online IR35 Employment Status Test to help those departments decide.
One agency said that 40% of their contractors who sat the test, who previously operated through a limited company, failed it. So, there was a mad scramble for umbrella companies for those contractors.
As there may be financial penalties if they get it wrong some Government departments and Trusts are deciding to make all contract jobs inside IR35.
So many contractors are now using umbrella companies so that they don't have to pay the IR35 tax.
In deciding if you are inside IR35 there are three main tests.
Those are Control, Direction or Supervision, the Right of Substitution and Mutuality of Obligation.
If an IT contractor is told what to do, how long his, or her, tasks should take, where to do the tasks, and what equipment they should use then they will fail the Control, Direction or Supervision test.
If their contract states that if, for some reason, they cannot work on the project, they can send a substitute to do the work for them, then they pass the Right of Substitution test.
However, if the client company refuse to accept this clause, then the IT Contractor fails this test.
If IT contractors contracts says that they contract to the client for a set amount of time and the client must pay them for that period of time and they must be present for that period of time then there is a Mutuality of Obligation between them.
So, the contractor would fail that IT35 test.
It would be much better if the contractor's contract said that the agreement was for the contractor to work on a task or project till they completed it.
It would also be better if the contract said that the client had no obligation to pay the contractor if there is no work for him or her.
As, most IT contractors work under Project Managers who tell them what to do and how long they should take to do tasks they fail this IR35 test.
As most clients of contractors will not allow them to send a substitute, they fail this test too.
Furthermore, as the client must pay the contractor for the period of his, or her, contract, whether they have work for them or not, they also fail this test.
So, most project-based IT contractors would fail the three main IR35 tests.
So, most of those who do, turn to umbrella companies.
These manage to save the contractor a bit more money than if they simply paid the IR35 tax.
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So, you've decided to use Google AdWords to increase your sales. Congratulations, you are now among the millions of advertisers on the platform, competing for your customers' clicks.
Don't get the wrong idea: Google advertising is an excellent tool for promoting and growing your business. Reports show that advertisers get back $2 for each $1 invested, which is a pretty advantageous return on investment.
But, here's the thing: Google advertising can also cost you a lot of time and resources if you don't know how to set it correctly.
Here's everything you need to know about how to improve your ad relevance, provide visitors with a better landing page experience, and increase your click-through rate.
Revise your ad copy before launching your campaign. Make sure you're using relevant keywords and that the content highlights your unique value proposition. Keep the copy short, sweet, and to the point.
Here's a quick and simple way to ensure your ads are relevant. Go to the Keywords tab in your Google AdWords account and place your mouse above the bubble next to the keyword. You will see there that each keyword has an associated status. Aim for "average" or "above average" since that's a strong indication your keywords and ads match to a great extent.
You've done your research and now know what your prospects are looking for online and what keywords they are using. Make sure to include those keywords in your ad title, the body text and, if possible, the URL.
Assure your prospects that they've landed on the right page by using your target keywords throughout your content. For instance, if your target keyword is "cold-pressed olive oil," you should use it in this exact form in the ad and on the landing page. "Olive oil" is not enough and neither is "cold-pressed oil," because these categories are too large. There's a major difference between olive oil and cold-pressed oil, and a wide variety of products under each category.
It doesn't matter how effective your Google AdWords strategy is. If once they click on your ad, prospects land on a page that is cluttered and confusing, then they'll most probably bounce. Provide prospects with clear, easy-to-follow instructions. If there is a form on the page, explain to your visitors what they need to do. It is critical for prospects to understand what is expected of them and what they should do next.
A lot of businesses assume – falsely – that the more information they provide, the greater the chance for conversion. In reality, a crowded landing page is tiring, confusing and can do more harm than good.
Keep your content relevant and useful. Your prospects aren't interested in learning about your business' history or how your products are made. What they want to know is if you can help them solve their problems.
Google studies have shown that more than 50% of mobile site visitors leave a page if it takes more than three seconds to load. However, the average loading time for most mobile sites is about 19 seconds.
Use tools to check the speed of your landing page. Ask your developer to improve it by minifying your code or compressing image sizes.
A variety of reasons can lead to a lower or a below average CTR. Maybe your copy is not as closely related to the target keyword as it should be. For example, someone looking for "cold-pressed olive oil" most probably won't click on an ad for "best olive oil." For starters, it's not specific enough; secondly, they may perceive it as misleading.
By using negative keywords, you tell AdWords not to show your ads for certain keywords. For example, if you sell high-end electronics, you don't want your ads to show for searches such as "cheap smartphone" or "computer for sale." If your ads show for these keywords and the prospects that land on your page find out that you sell, in fact, luxury products, they will bounce. But, those clicks will cost you time and valuable resources.
Google advertising isn't as easy as setting up a few ads and watching the money roll in. There is a lot of science behind what makes a campaign effective. Check your keywords, create magnetic copy, make sure to provide a seamless user experience, and try to understand your prospects' searching habits. And, most importantly, don't forget to revisit your campaigns regularly and change what doesn't seem to work.


Landscape Design Plans. Having the right landscape design plan will ultimately help you end up and visualize in satisfaction with a result you needed for this project. Depending on your need, it can come in the form of pencil drawn plan in a paper, finished by a landscape artist or professional, or a design created by special software.
If your project involves a simple land area only needing an ample enhancement to increase the aesthetical value of your property, you can do the design yourself through a paper. There is no need to hire a landscape artist if you got easy hands on this matter. By just thinking of basic elements and needs, you will have a concept that will particularly come on hand to beautify your home and its land area.
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The professional will help you find solutions that look viable enough with your property while at the same time will aid you in the entire procedure of materializing what is in that plan he has created for you. If this is your choice, you need to have an extra bundle of cash for his services, in addition to the intricate and extensive amounts of materials, equipment, devices, and labors.
First is to measure and conduct a survey on the land area where the landscape will be erected. Carefully detail each and specific feature existing on the area. Decide whether you like to retain some features or obliterate the others. This is a very important step so you would be able to have a plan that is not only aesthetically pleasing but is practical as well.
Take particular notice to the physical attributes of the land area. Are there slopes protruding somewhere the area? Is there any elevation on the land? What about its soil characteristics? And of course, you have to consider the climatic conditions as well.
After noting all these points, it is time to assess what particular plan you want. For example, do you want lots of plants strewn all over? Do you want patios, paths, and features? Where will be the right place to put the irrigation system?
All of these things and a lot of others are considered vital. And it helps to have them given with focus during the planning stage, so you will have a perfect landscape according to your personal preference.


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Thursday 24th Nov 2022
Invesco NZSuper Sovereign wealth funds Ukraine
Home / Analysis / Sovereign wealth funds tap external managers for private markets payday
Sovereign wealth funds tap external managers for private markets payday
Sovereign wealth funds have hit pause on their internalisation programs as they discover that they aren't naturals at private markets investing. And inflation and geopolitics are driving allocations to a broad range of alternative assets.
The growth in real assets investing is pushing global sovereign wealth funds (SWFs) away from the trend of internalising investment management, according to the latest Invesco Global Sovereign Asset Management Study. Around a third of the largest funds surveyed said they were looking to make greater use of external managers in private equity and real estate, while just over a quarter were looking to do the same in infrastructure.
Some funds said that they had struggled to manage private market assets outside their domestic market and were backtracking on previous moves to internalise, with 39 per cent of respondents saying that the move was based on better performance, linked to greater ground knowledge. Around 21 per cent of respondents said backtracking on internalisation had actually lowered costs, as external managers allowed them to forego "large and costly internal teams".
"Many funds are realising they are not good at operating assets and are looking to rely more on players that have a better track record," said one Middle East based development sovereign in the study. "When we have made an investment as the majority shareholder, we have been forced to operate the business and that is something that has historically not worked well, so we are moving away from that model and trying to leave all the management to general partners."
More than half of sovereign investors surveyed have developed strategic partnerships with third-party asset managers, rising to more than nine in ten for investment sovereigns. Around 33 per cent of sovereign funds expect their use of such partnerships to increase over the next five years, rising to 40 per cent for investment sovereigns and 56 per cent for development sovereigns, which have typically held portfolios comprised primarily of direct strategic investments managed internally.
"The confluence of factors driving uncertainty over the beginning of this year was unprecedented for many finance professionals, and it will take some time for risk-on sentiment to rebuild."
-Terry Pan
On the wider investment front the the macro backdrop is creating deep concern, with the report noting that "across all segments the overriding feeling was one of uncertainty and an environment in which decision-making had become much harder". Inflation was seen as the biggest threat to global growth over the next year, alongside global geopolitics, with two-fifths of respondents expecting inflation in developed markets to remain "stubbornly high" over the next two years.
Research for the study was conducted both before and after Russia's invasion of Ukraine, with a corresponding change in sentiment from respondents. Prior to the invasion, Europe was regarded as an "attractive destination for capital thanks to favourable valuations, particularly in comparison with the US". But there was a sharp reverse in sentiment after the invasion, with respondents saying that it had weakened Europe's growth prospects while making it harder to contain inflation and creating a "potentially toxic recipe for stagflation".
Respondents said they were instead deploying capital to US and APAC markets, with 33 per cent and 23 per cent expecting to increase their allocations to those markets respectively.
"The confluence of factors driving uncertainty over the beginning of this year was unprecedented for many finance professionals, and it will take some time for risk-on sentiment to rebuild," said Terry Pan, Invesco CEO for Greater China, Southeast Asia, and Korea (photo at top).
"In Asia Pacific, investors are closely eyeing how COVID restrictions in China will evolve, as the government continues to pursue its ambitious economic growth target. While we expect the market to remain volatile for some time ahead, with inflation less of concern across this region, there is still room for policy stimulus to support the economy."
Views on China in this year's study were more mixed, with more than half of sovereign funds believing that China had become a more challenging place to invest over the past 12 months. But its integration into global trade and financial markets dwarfs that of Russia, and the "interdependence" of the Chinese and US economies is seen as potentially mitigating some of the underlying political risk. Some funds see the market correction as a buying opportunity in a country that is accounting for a steadily rising share of global GDP.
"If you look at China, there is a slowdown in the domestic market due to the pandemic, and the slowdown in the real estate sector," said one investment sovereign based in the West. "However, we are still quite optimistic about the country over the long-term so this looks like a buying opportunity as we see a lot of potential in the region,"
Most respondents (59 per cent) have also repositioned their portfolios in anticipation of further rate rises, a move that has seen continued decline in allocation to fixed income and a corresponding increase to private market alternatives – including real estate, private equity and infrastructure – which 71 per cent of respondents agree are effective inflation hedges. But like most asset managers, sovereign investors have been browsing the rubble of the market correction, with US technology stocks – viewed as extraordinarily expensive last year – on their shopping lists.
"The drop in valuations has been quite sudden and means that more assets start to look attractive," said one Middle East development sovereign fund in the study. "Specifically, the US players had very rich valuations whenever we would talk about tech. Now we look at comparables and we can see potential entry values. The market is getting more rational and you see multiples that make more sense."
The Invesco study, now in its tenth year, details the views of 139 chief investment officers, heads of asset classes and senior portfolio strategists at 81 sovereign wealth funds and 58 central banks, who manage a collective US$23 trillion in assets.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


Hans Zimmer, Andrew Bayer & Matt Lange feat. Kerry Leva, Estiva Feat. Josie, Gai Barone, Catalin Anton & Sovve and more.
We both would like to especially dedicate this mix to the people close to us the most. Sometimes things go wrong in life, but its important to find something to hold on to, and music is just that. This mix is a slight departure from the happier music, it goes deeper and slightly darker as well. It took us quite some time to build what we believe to be an appropriate tracklist, so we hope you enjoy the journey.
quite an entertaining mix! I enjoyed the last 20min the most!


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Student Documentary Airing on KUED Examines the Lasting Impact of Spike 150
JCOM broadcast students Ayanna Likens and Zachary Aedo are the hosts for a new student-produced documentary airing on the state's largest public television station. The half-hour program, titled "The Last Spike: How Utah Linked the Nation," explores the effects of the Transcontinental Railroad that still shape Utah. It airs Friday, Sunday and Tuesday on KUED7.
JCOM broadcast student Eddie Collins makes camera adjustments as the crew records the introduction of a new documentary that will air this week on the public television station KUED7. In the center, Brian Champagne, professional practice associate professor in JCOM, watches the filming, which took place in Ogden's Union Station.
It's Utah historic state vegetable. But the sugar beet gets little love these days.
Consider, though, that Utah wouldn't be the state we love if it weren't for this particular root. And the sugar beet wouldn't be in a Utah Hall of Fame if it weren't for the railroad.
Indeed, the quality of life Utahns enjoy now rests entirely on that golden spike driven home on May 10, 1869 – 150 years ago today -- in a remote stretch of Box Elder County.
A new documentary produced by Utah State University broadcast students and airing on public television beginning May 10 examines the railroad's continuing influence. The title is "The Last Spike: How Utah Linked the Nation." It airs Friday, Sunday and Tuesday on KUED7, the state's largest public television station.
The seismic shift in Utah agriculture is only one aspect explored by the Journalism and Communication students mentored by Brian Champagne, a professional practice associate professor in JCOM, and Chris Garff, a professional practice assistant professor.
The half-hour documentary also examines the social and economic changes that endure through today.
Viewers can watch the documentary at these times:
Friday, May 10, 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, May 12, 11 a.m.
Tuesday, May 14, 1 a.m.
Utah Public Radio, an affiliate of National Public Radio, also commemorates Spike 150, the 150th anniversary of the Transcontinental Railroad, with "Ride the Rails," an original program that the station calls "a storytelling expedition uncovering the forgotten stories of the early railroads."
This radio program will be aired at 3 p.m. Saturday, May 11. It can also be streamed at UPR.org.
For the documentary picked up by KUED, the team of a half dozen students began in January collecting material, tracking down authoritative sources and shooting footage.
"Once our students got on board, they ran with it," said Garff, who also advices the JCOM broadcast news team for Aggies TV.
Archaeologists and historians in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences were interviewed, as well as experts from Brigham Young University. There's also the viewpoint of a descendant of Chinese laborers.
The students wrote and edited the entire documentary, with the two faculty members only stepping in to keep deadlines met.
As they watched the finished documentary, Garff and Champagne, both long-time Utahns, said they learned a lot of new angles from their student reporters. Garff was taken aback by the devastation the railroad wrought on Native Americans, not only with the influx of settlers, but also the systematic destruction of Native Americans' crops and other food sources.
"Essentially, once the railroad was competed, it pretty much ended Native Americans' way of life," he said.
The documentary is being shown on KUED under the auspices of Cache Rendezvous, the TV news magazine produced by the Aggie TV broadcast staff.
The majority of the reporting team graduated this spring and headed off to media jobs across the country. That means no watch party, Champagne says sadly.
But on the bright side, he adds, "This is a big notch in their belts. Not many students walk out of college saying, 'I produced a 30-minute documentary for a public TV station.'"
- Department of Journalism and Communication
- Cache Rendevous: The Last Spike-How Utah Linked the Nation


Home » Automobile » How to Get Cash for Junk Cars?
Having a car is a big deal for most people. More often than not, people trade their old car with the latest model. Some just for the love of cars, some for practical reasons and some others for sentimentality do not opt to sell their old car while buying a new one.
This more often than not causes a lack of space and also builds up environmental waste that consumes a lot of time and energy for maintenance. It would make much more sense if you could sell your old car and get good money in return for it.
There are 2 ways you could do this – either sell it online to buyers looking for second-hand cars or sell it to junk car buyers.
Where Can You Sell Your Old Car?
There are two options for people who wish to sell their old car. You can either sell it on a used car forum, where people are willing to buy used cars, or you could sell them to junk car buyers. To sell your car online, you need it to be well maintained, in perfect running condition and looking good.
Moreover, you will need a proper and accurate description of it apart from good photographs showing the best features. Despite that, it may take a lot of time as well as numerous trials before you can manage to sell it off.
On the other hand, when selling off to a junk car dealer, you don't have to worry about any of this stuff. This is so because junk car dealers are more interested in the scrap your car is generating than its actual condition.
They are buying your car not to drive it but to use it for its parts and metal body. Moreover, you get instant cash when you sell your car to junk car dealers.
Why Selling Your Junk Car for Cash is Better?
The scrap steel industry is a huge business. Steel can be recycled numerous times without any loss in its strength. Therefore reusing it not only reduces pollution but also requires less energy.
This is one of the major reasons why the junk car industry is thriving. To ensure that you get good value for your junk car it is important to keep the following pointers in mind.
It is essential for you to have the sale deed of the vehicle since cars can be purchased only by owners who have the necessary documentation. Without necessary documentation like vehicle paper's, you will end up getting less value for your car. It should, therefore, be kept in mind to get the necessary documents in order before you contact any junk car dealers.
Find out your car's worth before selling it. When selling it as a junk car, the model, the condition, even the sentimental value is of no importance. What matters is the cost of steel; that is going to determine how much you will get for your used car. Talking to your neighbors and friends who have previously sold their cars will provide you with an approximate idea of what you might procure for your vehicle.
Different junkyards offer different rates for junk or used cars. Before selling off your car, try and find out the different rates being quoted and settle for the best offer. More often than not, different models, with varying issues, fetch different rates. This is so because once purchased, they are taken apart and each part is sold separately.
Though many junk car buyers advertise that they will pick your car without any charge, it is a misleading statement; you will definitely be paid less than the quoted amount. It is always better to either drive your car or get it towed to the scrapyard to get the entire amount.
To get the best deal for your used car, it is important to know your car's worth. Always keep your price keeping certain factors in mind, as the condition of your car, how soon you wish to sell it to https://junkcarmasters.com/ etc.
Being aware of your car's price provides you with an advantage as you can negotiate well with prospective buyers and get the best price for it.


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Home Mercedes-Benz C Class Sedan News
2021 Mercedes C-Class Estate Makes Spy Photo Debut
Because not everyone wants the GLC.
Jul 22, 2020 at 6:07am ET
The rise of crossovers and SUVs has taken its toll on wagon sales, but the body style still remains relevant in some parts of the world. Europe is the most estate-loving audience where automakers continue to invest in these long-roof models, be them as small as a Skoda Fabia Combi or as large as an Audi A6 Avant.
While Mercedes has a cash cow in the GLC, it won't neglect those who would much rather get a C-Class Estate. Today, we're sharing the very first batch of spy shots with the BMW 3 Series Touring rival, spotted just hours ago in Stuttgart, Germany. Even though this is only our first look, the prototype already seems to have the full production body and lights.
Gallery: 2021 Mercedes C-Class Estate spy photos
The heavy disguise gets in the way of seeing what's new, but the sleeker headlights and taillights are peeking through the camo. We aren't noticing any major changes compared to the outgoing C-Class wagon as the greenhouse seems to be quite similar and the car's proportions are unlikely to change much.
The front grille with the multiple vertical slats reminds us of the Maybach S-Class facelift and we're noticing two of the parking sensors have been embedded within the grille. The air intakes at the front bumper are purely decorative as they're both blocked off, which is hardly a surprise nowadays. Sharp-looking lights akin to the E-Class facelift and CLS can be observed at the front and rear.
See The 2021 C-Class Sedan:
2021 Mercedes C-Class Test Driver Salutes Our Spy Photographer
⠀ 2021 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Spied With Slightly Less Camo In Front
With the dual exhaust tips on the driver's side pointing towards the road, we're afraid the new C-Class wagon will adopt faux exhaust tips integrated into the rear bumper. Although we can't see what's going on inside the cabin, there's no tablet sticking out from the dashboard anymore. In other words, the MBUX infotainment system will be mounted within the center console to enable a cleaner layout.
Mercedes Rumors:
Mercedes CLE Coming In 2023, CLE Shooting Brake Planned: Report
Mercedes is expected to finally go after the A4 Allroad with a C-Class All-Terrain with standard 4Matic, a raised suspension, and plastic body cladding, but that remains to be seen. The regular wagon will likely be out sometime in 2021, a few months after the sedan.
save over $3,400 on average off MSRP* on a new Mercedes-Benz C-Class
Source: Automedia
Mercedes-Benz C Class Sedan


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Posted inUS
Refugees International Calls on Trump to End Human Rights Abuses against Vulnerable Asylum Seekers at U.S. Southern Border
by Refugees International August 8, 2018
WASHINGTON, August 8, 2018—Upon return from a field mission to the border between the United States and Mexico, Refugees International (RI) President Eric Schwartz decried human rights abuses against highly vulnerable asylum seekers from the Northern Triangle of Central America.
Schwartz, a former White House official and former assistant secretary of state for population, refugees, and migration, said:
"The Trump administration is waging war on vulnerable women, men, and children seeking asylum in the United States. The Refugees International mission to the border confirmed that current policies are choking off access to refuge in violation of long-held U.S. commitments to protection of those fleeing their home countries in fear for their lives. And though the grotesque practice of family separation has been suspended, the trauma resulting from this foreseeable human rights abuse is ongoing for many hundreds of families, including many families who remain separated.
Ideally, and as an act of basic decency to families so brutally torn apart, the President should direct that family members victimized by the separation policy may remain in the United States – or re-enter the United States and remain if they have already departed – and Congress should provide a permanent legislative remedy for this population. Whether or not such reasonable action is forthcoming, all individuals victimized by this policy must have a fair chance to make asylum and other claims within the United States and be accorded full due process rights."
Refugees International visited several border communities between July 24 and August 2, 2018, including:
Tucson, Arizona and Nogales, Mexico
San Diego, California and Tijuana, Mexico
McAllen and Brownsville, Texas and Matamoros, Mexico
Refugees International is deeply concerned that the President's rhetoric and demonization of asylum seekers has grossly mischaracterized the asylum seeker population, and that the administration's policies have created enormous and needless suffering.
Asylum seekers have suffered widespread trauma and violations of human rights: Refugees International interviewed asylum seekers from Honduras, El Salvador, and Guatemala. Most had fled their homes in the Northern Triangle region after experiencing or being threatened with horrific violence at the hands of gangs and other criminal elements. Mothers and girls alike have escaped to avoid being subjected to sexual abuse and violence at the hands of gang members. Other individuals with whom RI met also reported having been shot, as evidenced by visible wounds they bore. Some of these individuals were in states of understandable despair and even panic at the prospect of being returned to their home countries where they faced a very real risk of death.
Blocking access to asylum at U.S. ports of entry: In previous reporting, RI has expressed concerns that U.S. officials at the border have on many occasions told asylum seekers they cannot apply for asylum. In addition, RI is alarmed that asylum seekers at a number of ports of entry are now being turned away and being told they must return at other times – presumably when there is additional processing capacity. RI witnessed this restriction of access to asylum during its visit to border; this has created additional risks to families who have been forced to wait and remain vulnerable to extreme heat and acts of criminality and violence. The Trump administration's policy is in conflict with U.S. legal obligations and appears motivated by the desire to deter asylum seekers. RI strongly urges the Trump administration to immediately end this policy of restricting access to ports of entry.
Forcing vulnerable asylum seekers to pursue more treacherous border crossings: RI fears that the Trump administration's policy to deter asylum requests at ports of entry is driving asylum seekers to seek asylum through unauthorized border crossing, imposing grave risks – including at the hands of criminal elements involved in alien smuggling. This is both tragic and ironic given the administration's stated commitment to combat such smuggling.
Criminal prosecution of asylum seekers and detention of credible claimants: RI is deeply concerned by the administration's determination to impose criminal penalties on asylum seekers who enter the country without authorization, as this conflicts with a U.S. commitment (under the Refugee Convention and Protocol) not to impose penalties on refugees provided they present themselves to authorities and show good cause for such entry. RI is also troubled by the detention of credible asylum claimants in conflict with an ICE policy directive on this issue. The Trump administration should immediately end criminal prosecutions of asylum seekers and restore policy relating to parole for credible claimants.
Risks to asylum seekers in Mexico: During its mission, RI received numerous credible testimonies of the serious risks faced by Central Americans transiting through Mexico, including abuse by criminal elements and deportation by Mexican authorities. Under those circumstances, and because Mexico is already dealing with a very large asylum seeker population, RI strongly opposes U.S. efforts to reach agreement with Mexico on the deportation of Central American asylum seekers to Mexico.
Severe harm caused by the absence of planning: The Trump administration's implementation of the family separation policy represents a clear example of severe and unnecessary harm exacerbated by the absence of planning. The failure to establish even the most basic family tracking mechanism inflicted additional suffering, which is why RI is calling for measures to provide relief to families who have been torn apart. But whether it is implementation of new policy guidance on considering persecution based on claims related to domestic abuse or gang violence, eliminating immigration enforcement priorities, establishing new systems for the processing of asylum claims, development of designs for the planned southwest border wall, or any number of new policies and procedures impacting protection issues, the Trump administration's chaotic process of implementation has had serious and unnecessary negative consequences on asylum applicants.
For this reason, RI urges that Members of Congress direct the General Accounting Office to review Department of Justice (DOJ) and Department of Homeland Security implementation of policy guidance during the first part of the Trump administration, with a view toward identifying ways to end needless suffering of asylum seekers. RI also believes that the Inspector General of DHS and the Inspector General of the Department of Justice should each independently conduct similar reviews.
A full report on RI's findings is forthcoming. www.refugeesinternational.org


Active, valid NJ Registered Nurse license and ASN or Nursing diploma required. BSN preferred. If candidate possesses ASN or Nursing diploma, must agree to complete BSN within five years of hire date. CPR, ACLS required. 2-3 years medical Surgical nursing experience. Excellent communication and customer service skills preferred.


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Category Archives: Thriller
Flynn, Gillian, , (c. 2012). Gone Girl. Crown. 416 pages , $25.99.
The NY Times, The Guardian
On their fifth anniversary, Nick returns home to find his wife missing. Following the clues, he realizes the desperate game being played and that he's the target.
On the Dunne's fifth anniversary, wife Amy goes missing bringing on a firestorm of media, speculation and marital missteps. Nick knows that he is innocent of foul play but everything clue points directly back to him and the role he has played in their "picture perfect" marriage. Amy, whose parent's entire career is based on their "Amazing Amy" books, leaves a diary behind that becomes more and more disturbing and layers are peeled away during the investigation. Filled with plot twists, disturbing characters, and the most devious of all plots, Gone Girl will keep you guessing and simultaneously cringing as it exposes the side of humanity that is best left hidden.
A brilliantly crafted thriller, this story is not for the light of heart. Even if you are not a horror fan, you will be pulled into the twisted lives of this seemingly ordinary couple where power is everything and manipulation is the weapon of choice. What makes this story so disturbing is that if deftly explores the institution of marriage making it an eerily plausible plot. Flynn highlights the fact that we are at our best when we first meet, becoming people that we may not really be in order to impress our future mate. Nick and Amy's story takes that premise, adds some disturbing details and produces a set of circumstances that surprises and repulses simultaneously.
Reminiscent of the movie "War of the Roses", it is hard to recommend a book where each character is more loathsome than the next. This is definitely not a gory read, but a psychological journey into some very dark minds. Although I did not enjoy the reading experience, I would suggest it to anyone who enjoys the genre, great writing and does not have a need to like the characters.
Thriller/Psychological
Precious Things by Collette McBeth.
The Perfect Ghost by Linda Barnes
Awards/Lists:
Goodreads Choice Awards: 2012
Library Journal Best Books: 2012
Romantic Times Reviewers' Choice Award – Best Mystery & Suspense: 2012
The Reading List (RUSA): 2013
1. Do you like Nick or Amy? Do you find yourself rooting for either one of them?
2. Why was Amy's diary so effective both as a strategy for the author and as a manipulation used by the character?
3. Amy described herself as "the cool girl" and her friend's husbands as "dancing monkeys". How does this reflect back on Amy's character and how she views the world.
4. Amy's parents – there may not be enough time to discuss their overarching role, but give it a shot. Why are they so important to the story?
5. If you were to rewrite the ending, how would you do it?
I first found this book on the Stop Your Killing Me Newsletter which I receive each month. After reading it, I thought I had finally found the book that I would never pick up again. I am admittedly a "sensitive" reader in that what I read definitely impacts my outlook. I found this book depressing because the characters were so loathsome.
But then, it was chosen as a book discussion selection for this class. I was encouraged to participate because I had such strong negative feelings about it. So, I re-read the book and even though it still made me feel "icky", I thoroughly enjoyed the conversation and took great pleasure in siting all the ways I detested Amy. It proved to be a cleansing experience and now I will feel good about recommending it to those who enjoy the genre.
Thriller	4Wawardbooks to moviescharacternarrativepsychologicalrelationships	Leave a comment
March 15, 2014 by cathycrosthwaite
Adler-Olsen, Jussi, (c. 2011). The Keeper of Lost Causes. Dutton. 395 pages , $28.79.
Kirkus Reviews, Publishers Weekly
Relegated to cold cases, Chief Detective Morck finds himself intrigued by the five year old disappearance of a prominent politician.
A shooting that paralyzed his partner and should have ended his career has only served to make Chief Detective Morck bitter and unmotivated, a state that is apparent to all in the precinct. Delegated to the basement, Morck has been assigned to work on the cold cases where he can pretend to stay busy and useful. However, his recently assigned assistant, Assad, prods him into action and together they take on a five year old case involving a missing politician. The circumstances surrounding the disappearance are intriguing enough to make Morck shed his aura of indifference and put his detective skills to work to piece together the puzzle.
This dark and gritty narrative successfully shows the detailed workings of a cold case juxtaposed to the victim's horrific plight and the horror endured while the detectives methodically work there way to the answer. Interspersed with wit and colorful characterizations, Adler-Ollsen explores the dark side of human nature and leaves us wanting more out of Department Q. This is the first book in the series.
For fans of The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, The Keeper of Lost Causes hits the mark. Set in Denmark, Chief Detective Morck wants to give up on life but circumstances won't allow him that luxury. Partnered with the ultimate optimist, Assad, Morck finds himself fascinated with the challenges of solving a relatively recent cold case. The story is compelling, horrific and humorous which is not an easy mix to accomplish but the author succeeds on all levels.
Thriller/Psychological Suspense
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson. Alex by Pierre LeMaitre
What makes Carl Morck's character so believable?
Describe the relationship between Morck and Assad?
Despite the horror of the crime, there is comic relief throughout the story. How big a part in the story does it play?
I found this in NoveList as an Author-Readalike for Stieg Larsson. It is the first in the Dept Q series and does not disappoint. I was hooked from the beginning and managed to get through the pretty grisly parts.
Thriller	4H4WadrenalineDenmarkdetectivegrittylandscapemysterypsychologicalseriessuspense	Leave a comment


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Flat Rock Middle School
Contact FRMS
NC School Report Card
2020-2021 TSI Parent Letter (English)
2020-2021 TSI Parent Letter (Spanish)
Parent Assistant
PTO & Volunteer Info
SIT Minutes
Welcome to one of North Carolina's finest schools, Flat Rock Middle School. We have a tradition of excellence in academic success and citizenship. Students experience success at FRMS when they are committed to school, have good attendance, and prepare for class by completing assignments and studying for tests. Students are expected to use their agenda books on a daily basis to record their assignments and travel around the building. Parents should check agenda books daily to make sure assignments are recorded and completed to the best of the student's ability.
Flat Rock Middle School Mission Statement
Flat Rock Middle School values everyone and pursues the highest success for all. We are here to help each person learn and grow through their failures and successes.
Flat Rock Middle School Vision
We Value Everyone
Flat Rock Middle School Core Values
The staff embraces the HCPS Core Values as our own and would add the following:
We honor our differences and recognize our similarities by practicing acceptance and respect for all.
We provide a nurturing environment for staff and students to pursue their learning potential.
We believe a safe environment is a collaborative effort among students, staff, parents, and the community.
School hours are from 7:50 a.m. until 3:05 p.m. Students are not to be on school grounds before 7:30 a.m. or after 3:30 p.m without proper adult supervision. There is no supervision of students who are not involved in specific staff supervised activities by school personnel before 7:15 a.m. or after 3:30 p.m. For safety reasons, please make sure your student is not at school before 7:15 a.m. or after 3:30 p.m. unless participating in a school sponsored (adult supervised) activity.
ARRIVAL AND DISMISSAL OF STUDENTS BY CAR:
Students may be dropped off in front of the school between 7:15 a.m. and 7:55 a.m. Students should not arrive by car before 7:15 a.m. Students are to be picked up in front of the school between 3:05 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.
Parents and citizens are encouraged to visit Flat Rock. Parents and citizens who visit for valid educational purposes are welcome. Students are not to have out-of-school friends, relatives, or visitors with them at school. All visitors must secure the principal's permission to visit during school hours. All visitors are to check by the office upon entering the building.
PARENT-TEACHER COMMUNICATION:
Parents are urged to contact the school whenever the need arises. Teachers may be contacted by note or telephone (828-697-4775) or through email. If you call during the school day, the office will leave the teacher a note to return your call. If you wish to have a conference with your child's teacher(s), please call ahead to make an appointment (828-697-4775). Parent-teacher conferences should be arranged at least 24 hours in advance.
MIDTERM REPORTS AND REPORT CARDS:
Report cards are sent to parents at the end of each nine-week period. Midterm reports are distributed to inform parents of a student's progress at the halfway point of each grading period. Students are expected to take all reports home the day they are issued and return them to either their homeroom teacher or the specialty subject teacher the following day. Students who do not return reports are subject to disciplinary action from their teachers.
STUDENT INSURANCE:
Henderson County Public Schools makes available to students a group accident insurance program. Additional coverage can be obtained. Premiums are the responsibility of parents. Please contact the school secretary for information concerning student insurance.
Henderson County Public School Board of Education does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, national origin, sex, or handicap in the educational programs or activities. Our policy is to remain completely fair in the educational field.
CONFIDENTIALITY AND ACCESS TO STUDENT RECORDS:
The Henderson County Public Schools comply with the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA), under which parents or otherwise authorized persons may inspect and review, contest the accuracy of, and control access to student educational records. Student educational records are made available within 45 days to the student's parent, eligible students (those 18 years of age or older), and school officials who have a legitimate educational interest in seeing the records. Student educational records may be released to others only in accordance with stated legal guidelines. A copy of the complete policy pertaining to confidentiality and access to student records may be obtained at each Henderson County Public School and from the office of the Superintendent. Complaints regarding alleged failure to comply with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act may be brought to the attention of the Office of the Secretary, Department of Education, Washington, DC.
This page was last modified by Natalie Ezell on Sep 9, 2018 @ 9:51 pm
Ingles Tools for Schools
NCEdCloud (IAM)
Parent and Guardian Quick Links
Student Google Account Info
FamilyID Portal
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School Picture Day – In-Person and Virtual Plans
Fall pictures for A Day students will be from 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm on November 5th. Fall pictures for Virtual-Only students will be from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm on November 5th. Fall pictures for B Day students will be from 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm on November 13th. Please contact the school if […]
191 Preston Lane
E. Flat Rock, NC 28726


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Michael Adler - Weber Gallagher Simpson Stapleton Fires & Newby LLP
Michael Adler
Weber Gallagher Simpson Stapleton Fires & Newby LLP
http://www.wglaw.com
Michael E. Adler is a partner in the Commercial Litigation Department at Weber Gallagher Simpson Stapleton Fires & Newby LLP in Philadelphia, A. He focuses his practice on the representation of publicly-traded and privately-held corporations, developers and property and financial management companies in complex commercial and litigation matters, including insurance, real estate and transactional issues.
He is a member of the Litigation and Antitrust Sections of the American Bar Association and recently served as the Financial Secretary of the Young Lawyers Division of the Philadelphia Bar Association. He is presently serving as the President of the Executive Committee of the Temple Law Alumni Association and on the Board of Directors of Temple Beth Hillel-Beth El and is an active member of the Temple American Inn of Court, the International Visitor's Council of Philadelphia, the Philadelphia Bar Foundation and the Rutgers Club of Greater Philadelphia. He was recently elected a Committeeman in Lower Merion Township. He handles numerous pro bono matters on behalf of the Society Created to Reduce Urban Blight (SCRUB) and the Support Center for Child Advocates. He was recently selected by his peers in the Pennsylvania Law Weekly and the Legal Intelligencer as a "Lawyer on the Fast Track" and in Philadelphia Magazine as a Pennsylvania "Rising Star Super Lawyer."
Mr. Adler received his Juris Doctor from Temple University School of Law, Magna Cum Laude, in 1998 and his Bachelor of Arts from Rutgers University, With Honors, in 1995. Mr. Adler is admitted to practice in New Jersey and Pennsylvania, and before the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, the United States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit, and the United States Supreme Court.
Message to Michael Adler


An episode in which I get pretty real about what it's like to be hospitalized, and how it doesn't have to be the worst thing ever. The worst thing ever for me would have been not going, not getting help, and ending up somewhere I didn't want to be.
Thank you for your open, brave honesty Leanne. You are a gem. Keep taking good care of yourself and good luck with your thesis!
Very brave, Leanne. Hospital is a safe place and it is good to be reminded of that. Wishing you wellness.
Leanne you are such a strong powerful person. You inspire me . Your shows rock. Leanne you are a Rockstar. This world needs more people like you. Thank you.
Ok, wiping the tears now. Thank you so much for your video. It really touched me, and helps me understand those I love who have gone through this or someone down the road who I can share this with to understand.
Thank you Leanne. I have been hospitalized once also. It is scary but it certainly helped. This was many, many years ago and I imagine things have improved since then. This was very powerful and brought me back along way and made me realize how far I have come.


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The Blanket Room – by Alexis Wolfe
I've walked past this door several times a day and never even wondered where it leads. Here in NICU my pathways have become deeply entrenched in only 5 days. I go from Reception, past the Nurses station on the left to the Milk kitchen on the right, where I deposit several bottles of golden expressed breast milk in the fridge, then from the Milk kitchen continue along the corridor past the Sluice room and the laundry, and this, the mystery doorway I've never really noticed, further along the corridor to the Wards, except they don't call them Wards up here, they call them units. First on the left is Room 6 - Intensive Care Unit (ICU) a room I've never had cause to enter, immediately adjacent and linked by a wall of glass is Room 7 the High Dependency Unit (HDU) where Jacob went first, and then finally and linked by half windows is Room 8. Its entrance is the very last doorway on the left at the very end of the long corridor and for most babies the end of their long NICU journey. For Room 8 is the Special Care nursery. But tonight, Nurse Jan has decreed a diversion.
Going anywhere other than the designated routes in NICU has so far meant bad news. I've been pulled into the Parents room for a chat with the social worker, taken into the quiet conference room for the Ophthalmologist to share sombre findings. But this excursion is primarily for fun. Jan's idea is that I should pick out some new blankets for Jacob, so she is fumbling around with the key to the Blanket room. It's so quiet in room 8 this evening—Jacob and one other slumbering baby are the only patients there this shift—so Jan has time for some "value added" nursing.
There is no sign on the door and I quickly realise it's not actually a door leading anywhere but a huge walk-in cupboard. It has a fresh laundry smell which immediately makes you feel secure, and we stand side by side in the dark as Jan feels around for the light. When she switches it one, the jewels of the blanket room are revealed. A ripple of colours, reds, blues, purples, pinks and creams. There must be half a dozen or more stacks of knitted baby blankets, each stack is 2 or 3 ft high arranged on shelves on all three sides. It's like being surrounded by layers of rainbows. I half wish Jan would instruct me to take a nap, because I fancy I could drop off here on the shelf atop these mini knitted mountains. I am reminded of a walk in cupboard at my grandmother's old house, a place I would retreat to sit and close the door in order to think teenage thoughts, surrounded by the hems of floor skimming duffle coats and the smell of worn leather shoes and suitcases.
Jan takes hold of a large stack by one corner and hauls a hefty mound of blankets backward as if peeling back a bed quilt. I peer into the two triangles, there's a patchwork design on display, triangles of red, white and pink with a white bobble trimming. She begins to flick through the blankets on by one, gradually the stack beneath rises and she has less and less blankets above held back by her arm. We move on to filtering another stack. She pauses at possible contenders, glancing over at me with an enquiring look. But I'm finding it hard to focus on the hunt for the perfect blanket; I'm still puzzled by how I have landed in a hospital cupboard choosing bedding for a baby I'm still not entirely convinced is my own. I'm numb, still far from acceptance, still waiting to wake up.
"Shout when you see one you think Jacob will like," she says, and I feel myself bristle mildly. Isn't this just a waste of time, picking out blankets for a baby who probably can't hear, who definitely can't see?
"No two are the same," she says and I immediately see the parallel, as no two babies are the same either.
"Mmmm, this one feels good," she murmurs. "This wool is like silk."
I reach out to feel it, and she's right. "Yeah, Jacob would love that," I blurt out. She reaches in and out it comes, to be flung over her shoulder.
"What else?" she asks, and I'm on board now, selecting colours. We go for a bright navy blue and dark green stripy one that reminds me of the sea. Reject a blue and purple one that's "too girly," and settle on another green one, paler green this time, with darker flecks. It could be a grassy lawn, I think.
"Nice," says Jan. It joins the other two over her shoulder, and for a moment we both pause and once more take in the splendour of the blanket room. It's a linen room too, but the piles of standard white hospital sheets and pillowcases on the lower shelves, merit no observation. We can't take our eyes from the mountains of knitted glory on the higher shelves. More blankets than I can ever imagine this hospital using in its lifetime, even with its never-ending supply of babies to be swaddled.
"So many!" I say. "Where do they come from?"
"Little old ladies," Jan says, and I nod. Where else could they have come from? Little old ladies sitting at home knitting blankets for premature babies.
"You've chosen well. These are nice big ones," says Jan. And I am reminded of Jacob's great size in comparison to his tiny room mates. Even in Room 8, the nursery and last stop before home, a place where a reluctant feeder or a baby not quite maintaining the right temperature is temporarily stationed, the babies still tend to be petite. Jacob's is the only full term baby in the unit, and at 7lb 5ozs he looks like a slumbering giant compared to his tiny premature roommates. Other parents look confused when they see him. When is he going home? He's huge.
In total he will spend fifty-one days here. I watch new nurses start their shift and see them thinking, "Our work here is done." But look closer. Note the eyes. The facial asymmetry. The fact that his nasal gastric tube is still in place. The way one side of his face crumples when he cries and the other half remains motionless.
But Jan started some of the hardest work that night, there in the blanket room, gently forcing me to assign him a personality, persuading me to choose blankets for him, enabling me to start mothering.
Alexis Wolfe lives in Ascot, England with her husband Neil and two children, Jacob and Reuben. She works part time as a TV Production Manager and writes in secret when the kids are asleep, mainly to avoid the household chores. She blogs occasionally at www.welcometomilestones.blogspot.com.


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"THE BOOK OF REVELATION" Chapter Twenty-One by Mark Copeland
"THE BOOK OF REVELATION"
Chapter Twenty-One
Following the Judgment scene at the end of the previous chapter, the
eternal destiny of the redeemed is now revealed.  The motif of a new
heaven and new earth, along with the New Jerusalem, is used to provide
great hope and comfort to Christians.  This is certainly nothing new,
for both the Old and New Testaments provided similar pictures to increase
anticipation of the future (cf. Isa 65:17-25; 66:22-24; He 11:10,13-16;
13:14; 2Pe 3:13).  In each case, the eternal destiny of God's faithful is
described in terms that provided the greatest meaning and encouragement
to the people of that dispensation.  Here we see the destiny of the
redeemed in terms depicting fellowship with God and protection by God.
John first sees all things made new.  There is a new heaven and a new
earth, for the first heaven and first earth are no more (cf. Re 20:11).
He sees the holy city, New Jerusalem, "coming down out of heaven from
God."  A loud voice from heaven declares that God will dwell with His
people and be their God.  God, who is the Alpha and the Omega, the
Beginning and the End, will comfort His people by removing all that
causes pain, and provide the fountain of the water of life freely to him
that thirsts.  While those who overcome inherit all things and enjoy the
blessings of being God's children, the wicked and unfaithful have their
part in the lake of fire and brimstone (cf. Re 19:20; 20:10,14-15) which
is defined as the second death (1-8).
One of the seven angels who had the seven bowls (cf. Re 15:7; 16:1) then
carries John to a great and high mountain, to show him "the bride, the
Lamb's wife".  This is none other than the great city, the New Jerusalem,
which is seen "descending out of heaven from God." It is a city having
the glory of God, and the bulk of the chapter describes its prominent
features.  A great and high wall surrounds the city. Standing about 216
feet high and made of jasper, the wall has twelve pearly gates upon which
are the names of the twelve tribes of Israel, with an angel at each gate.
The wall has twelve foundations, each made of precious stones of various
colors, upon which are the names of the twelve apostles. The city itself,
made of pure gold like clear glass, is 1500 miles long in its length,
breadth, and height.  The street of the city is also pure gold, like
transparent glass (9-21).
The glory of the holy city is described further by noting that there is
no temple, for God Almighty and the Lamb are its temple.  There is no
need for the sun or moon, for the glory of God and the Lamb illuminate
the city.  Its gates are never shut, there is no night there, and the
nations of the saved along with the kings of the earth bring their honor
and glory into it.  Only those written in the Lamb's book of life enter
this glorious city, ensuring that it remains free from any abomination
and defilement (22-27).
*  The eternal destiny of the redeemed, in terms depicting fellowship
with God and protection by God
*  The new heaven and new earth (cf. 2Pe 3:13), along with the holy city,
New Jerusalem "coming down out of heaven from God" (cf. Re 3:12;
21:2,10)
*  The detailed imagery used to describe the heavenly city, the New
I. ALL THINGS MADE NEW (1-8)
A. THE NEW HEAVEN AND NEW EARTH (1)
1. John sees a new heaven and a new earth
2. The first heaven and earth had passed away, and there was no sea
B. THE NEW JERUSALEM (2)
1. John saw the holy city coming down out of heaven
2. It was prepared as a bride adorned for her husband
C. THE PROCLAMATION FROM HEAVEN (3-4)
1. "The tabernacle of God is with men"
a. "He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people"
b. "God Himself will be with them and be their God"
2. "God will wipe away every tear from their eyes"
a. "There shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying"
b. "There shall be no more pain, for the former things have
passed away"
D. THE PROCLAMATION FROM THE ONE WHO SAT ON THE THRONE (5-8)
1. "Behold, I make all things new"
a. "Write, for these words are true and faithful"
b. "It is done!"
2. "I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End"
a. "I will give of the fountain of the water of life freely to
him who thirsts"
b. "He who overcomes shall inherit all things"
1) "I will be his God"
2) "He shall be My son"
3. "But the cowardly, unbelieving, abominable, murderers, sexually
immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars..."
a. "Shall have their part in the lake which burns with fire and
brimstone"
b. "Which is the second death"
II. THE NEW JERUSALEM (9-21)
A. JOHN IS SHOWN THE HOLY CITY (9-11)
1. By one of the seven angels who had the seven bowls filled with
the last plagues
a. Who offered to show John "the bride, the Lamb's wife"
b. Who carried him away in the Spirit to a great and high
2. He sees the great city, the holy Jerusalem
a. Descending out of heaven from God
b. Having the glory of God
c. With light like a jasper stone, clear as crystal
B. THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE CITY AND ITS WALL (12-21)
1. It had a great and high wall with twelve gates
a. With twelve angels at the gates
b. With the names of the twelve tribes of Israel
c. With three gates each on the east, north, south, and west
d. With twelve foundations, on which were the names of the
twelve apostles of the Lamb
2. The measurement of the city, the gates, and the wall
a. The angel had a golden reed to measure them
b. The city is laid out as a cube, its length, breadth, and
height are each 12,000 furlongs (1500 miles)
c. The wall is one hundred and forty-four cubits (216 feet)
3. The construction of the city, the wall, its foundations, and the
a. The wall was of jasper; the city was pure gold, like clear
b. The twelve foundations of the wall were adorned with precious
1) Jasper      5) Sardonyx      9) Topaz
2) Sapphire    6) Sardius      10) Chrysoprase
3) Chalcedony  7) Chrysolite   11) Jacinth
4) Emerald     8) Beryl        12) Amethyst
c. The twelve gates were twelve pearls, each gate one pearl
d. The street of the city was pure gold, like transparent glass
III. THE GLORY OF THE HOLY CITY (22-27)
A. ILLUMINATED BY THE PRESENCE OF GOD AND THE LAMB (22-23)
1. Its temple are the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb
2. It is illuminated by the glory of God and the Lamb
B. ENHANCED BY THOSE WHO ENTER IT (24-27)
1. The nations of the saved shall walk in its light
2. The kings of the earth bring their glory and honor into it
3. Its gates shall not be shut at all by day, and there is no night
4. The nations shall bring their glory and honor into it
a. Nothing that defiles, causes an abomination or a lie, shall
enter it
b. Only those written in the Lamb's book of Life enter it
1) What are the main points of this chapter?
- All things made new (1-8)
- The New Jerusalem (9-21)
- The glory of the holy city (22-27)
2) What did John see? (1)
- A new heaven and new earth
3) What happened to the first heaven and first earth? What of the sea?
- They had passed away; it was no more
4) What did John see coming down out of heaven from God? (2)
- The holy city, New Jerusalem, prepared as bride adorned for her
5) What is said about the dwelling of God? (3)
- The tabernacle of God is with men
- He will dwell with them and they shall be His people
- God Himself will be with them and be their God
6) What will God do?  What shall be no more? (4)
- Wipe away every tear from their eyes; death, sorrow, crying, pain
7) What did the One on the throne say to John in verse 5?
- "Behold, I make all things new"
- "Write, for these words are true and faithful"
8) What did He say in verse 6?
- "It is done!"
- "I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End"
- "I will give of the fountain of the water of life freely to him who
thirsts"
9) What is promised to those who overcome? (7)
- He shall inherit all things
- "I will be his God and he shall be My son"
10) Who shall have their part in the lake which burns with fire and
brimstone?  What is this called? (8)
- The cowardly, unbelieving, abominable, murderers, sexually immoral,
sorcerers, idolaters, all liars
- The second death
11) Who offered to show John the bride, the Lamb's wife? (9)
- One of the seven angels who had the seven bowls
12) Where is John taken, and what does he see? (10)
- To a great and high mountain
- The great city, the holy Jerusalem, descending out of heaven from
13) What was the general description of the city? (11)
- It has the glory of God
- Her light was like a most precious stone, like a jasper stone, clear
as crystal
14) What surrounded the city? (12)
- A great and high wall with twelve gates
15) What stood at each of the gates?  What was written on the gates? (12)
- An angel; the names of the twelve tribes of Israel
16) How many foundations did the wall have?  What was written on the
foundations? (14)
- Twelve; the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb
17) What was the length, breadth, and height of the city? (16)
- 12,000 furlongs (about 1500 miles)
18) How tall was the wall? (17)
- 144 cubits (about 216 feet)
19) What was the construction of the wall?  Of the city? (18)
- The wall was of jasper
- The city was of pure gold, like clear glass
20) What were the foundations of the city adorned with? (19)
- All sorts of precious stones
21) What were the twelve gates?  What was the street of the city? (21)
- Twelve pearls, each gate of one pearl
- Pure gold, like transparent glass
22) Why was there no temple in the city? (22)
- The Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are its temple
23) Why was there no need for the sun or moon to shine in it? (23)
- The glory of God illuminated it, and the Lamb is its light
24) Who shall walk in its light?  Who shall bring their glory and honor
into it? (24)
- The nations of those who are saved
- The kings of the earth
25) What shall not be shut at all day?  What about at night? (25)
- The city's gates
- There shall be no night there
26) Who will by no means enter the city?  Who will enter the city? (27)
- Anything that defiles, or causes an abomination or a lie
- Only those who are written in the Lamb's Book of Life
Executable Outlines, Copyright © Mark A. Copeland, 2012
▼ Sep (287)
"THE BOOK OF REVELATION" Concluding Thoughts by M...
"THE BOOK OF REVELATION" Chapter Twenty-Two by Ma...
"THE BOOK OF REVELATION" Chapter Twenty-One by Ma...
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Shining through by Gary Rose
► 15 (1


text:
MLB and Players Assn. connect to bring Blacks back into baseball
September 2, 2015 - by Larry Fitzgerald
Major League Baseball and the MLB Players Association, having watched the levels of Black (i.e., African American) players across MLB drop drastically over the last 30 years, made a unique move recently to address the cause and effect and root reasons why top Black athletes were turning away from the American pastime.
MLB on July 13 at the All-Star game in Cincinnati, with new Commissioner Rob Manfred and Tony Clark, executive director of the MLB Players Association, agreed on a $30 million initiative and collaboration to turn the issue around. I was reading Hall-of-Famer David Winfield's website recently where he wrote about the many changes.
Dave Winfield
Winfield, after 12 years as VP of Baseball with the San Diego Padres and stops at FOX and ESPN as game and studio analyst, is now with the MLB Players Association. Winfield's vast experience and passion for young people and the game of baseball shines through. His column, "Athletes Wanted," detailed the momentum that has started already and has gotten as many as 250 young players in MLB's new pipeline.
The nationwide youth baseball search for athletes ages 13-16 years who desire to continue to play baseball at the highest level is gathering steam as well as the required financial help. The dominant Black athletes have not been participating in years past. There has been a lack of inclusion in the process of former Black players who played the game at a high level.
That is changing. Active players David Price, Chris Archer and Lorenzo Cain have committed, and the initiative has gathered steam.
MLB was number one in popularity through the 1950s and '60s and '70s with Hank Aaron, Ken Griffey Jr, Willie Mays, Ernie Banks, Billy Williams, Frank Robinson, Bob Gibson, Reggie Jackson, and many others. Then America changed and the NFL, with 80 percent Black athletes on 32 teams in football, is now number one by a large margin.
Winfield said, as a guest on Gamedaygold.com, that MLB identified Black families starting to turn away from the game some 30 years ago, but MLB did not act. This summer, 150 Black players ages 13-16 were selected and participated in the 10-day camp. Players like Dmitri Young, Tom Gordon, Marquis Grissom, Lee Smith and Kenny Hill are teaching the game to the raw talent of athletes to get the fundamentals down.
The elite development camp at Vero Beach from July18-30 at Dodger town was special. Another large group of athletes in Branton, Florida hosted about 50 Black athletes, turning them from raw to refined with intensive instruction and training. That is part of what it takes, and because of it many young African American players are on the radar screen now for high levels to play college and, potentially, pro baseball.
The next initiative is set for September 1-3 with 20 MLB scouts on hand to watch and select.
Larry Fitzgerald can be heard weekday mornings on KMOJ Radio 89.9 FM at 8:25 am, on WDGY-AM 740 Monday-Friday at 12:17 pm and 4:17 pm, and at www.Gamedaygold.com. He also commentates on sports 7-8 pm on Almanac (TPT channel 2). Follow him on Twitter at FitzBeatSr. Larry welcomes reader responses to info@larry-fitzgerald.com, or visit www.Larry-Fitzgerald.com.
Larry Fitzgerald
Larry Fitzgerald is a longstanding contributing columnist at the Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder. He can be heard weekday mornings on KMOJ Radio 89.9 FM at 8:25 am, on WDGY-AM 740 Monday and Friday at 9:10 am, and at www.Gamedaygold.com. He also commentates on sports 7-8 pm on Almanac (TPT channel 2). Follow him on Twitter at FitzBeatSr. Larry welcomes reader responses to info@larry-fitzgerald.com, or visit www.Larry-Fitzgerald.com.
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"On one hand, the fees of the schools are so high and on the other hand, they want one of the parents to be staying home full-time and not working. How is it reasonable?" asked the parent.
Pune: While the admissions for classes of nursery and kindergarten in the city schools have begun, amidst looking for the best schools and preparing for the 'crucial' interviews, the parents in the city have met with a new dilemma.
Some of the parents have pointed out that a few of the schools have a condition that the mother of the child must be a housewife. While the activists state that any such conditions should not be enforced on parents, the school associations have alleged that these are mere rumours and an attempt to defame the schools. "My wife is a homemaker, but still while I was going through schools for my son's admission, I was enraged at this condition," said a parent residing on Sinhagad Road on condition of anonymity.
Another parent from Pimpri-Chinchwad said she could no longer continue to work despite wanting to as her daughter's school demanded that the mother should be a stay-at-home parent.
While the schools have been ordered not to give homework to the younger kids, the necessity of the mother being a housewife again points to the parents' complaint that the schools try to find opportunities to shrug off their teaching responsibility and push the load on to the parents.
Reacting to the issue, Mukund Kirdat, RTE (Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education) activist said it is unreasonable for schools to place any condition on parents to deny admissions apart from the one on the distance between the school and the residence.
"There are no stated rules for admissions to nursery or KG due to the debate about which department does the pre-primary section belong to, the school education or women and children development department. Due to this, schools are making this demand that the mother has to be a housewife. It is illegal and illogical. In the nuclear family structure of today, it needs to be understood that many children come from households where both parents are working. At the same time, there are no grandparents too to take care of these children. If there is an attempt to bring about such a rule, it is very regressive," Kirdat said.
While activists have pointed out the futility of interviewing the parents before giving admissions to the children, schools believe this is necessary to see whether the child would be comfortable in both the school and home environments, if they happen to be too contrasting.


text:
Police seize bedding from Idaho stabbing suspect's home
Four Killed University of Idaho
FILE - Bryan Kohberger, left, who is accused of killing four University of Idaho students in November 2022, looks toward his attorney, public defender Anne Taylor, right, during a hearing in Latah County District Court, Jan. 5, 2023, in Moscow, Idaho. Investigators seized stained bedding, strands of what looked like hair and a single glove — but no weapon — when they searched the Washington state apartment of Kohberger, a graduate student, charged with stabbing four University of Idaho students to death, according to court documents newly unsealed on Tuesday, Jan. 17, 2023. (AP Photo/Ted S. Warren, Pool)
REBECCA BOONE
BOISE, Idaho (AP) — Investigators seized stained bedding, strands of what looked like hair and a single glove — but no weapon — when they searched the Washington state apartment of a graduate student charged with stabbing four University of Idaho students to death, according to newly unsealed court documents.
The search warrant for Bryan Kohberger 's home and Washington State University office was unsealed by a Washington state judge on Tuesday. Kohberger is charged with four counts of first-degree murder and burglary in connection with the slayings of Madison Mogen, Kaylee Goncalves, Xana Kernodle and Ethan Chapin in the neighboring town of Moscow, Idaho.
Investigators did not find anything noteworthy in Kohberger's office at WSU, where he was a teaching assistant and graduate student studying criminology. They took 15 things from his on-campus apartment, including a nitrite-type black glove, cuttings from a pillow with a reddish-brown stain, and a stained mattress cover.
The Washington State University Police Department searched the apartment Dec. 30, the same day Kohberger was arrested at his parent's home in eastern Pennsylvania.
The Nov. 13, 2022, slayings of the four University of Idaho students left many in the community shaken and worried about the possibility of a repeat attack. Police released few details for weeks but repeatedly said they had not located the weapon used to commit the crime.
After Kohberger was extradited to Idaho, documents filed in the murder case showed that police found the sheath of a large knife near one of the victims. The knife itself, however, was nowhere to be found.
Investigators did not seize any weapon from Kohberger's apartment, according to the search warrant. They did take several strands of "possible hair," including one identified as a "possible animal hair strand." They also took some store receipts, a tag from a company that makes coveralls and other work apparel, and two store receipts. The dust bin from a vacuum cleaner, a computer tower and a "Fire TV" stick were collected as well.
In the application for the search warrant, Moscow Police Sgt. Dustin Baker said investigators were seeking several kinds of potential evidence, including images of the stabbing victims or their home, data that might indicate an interest in planning murders or violence, anything with DNA and dark clothing and knives.
The court documents do not reveal if the items collected from Kohberger's home contained any evidence related to the murder case.
Kohberger has not yet had the opportunity to enter a plea, and Latah County Magistrate Judge Megan Marshall has placed the attorneys and other people involved with the case under a sweeping gag order.
Kohberger is scheduled to have a preliminary hearing — where the judge will decide if there is enough evidence to justify the felony charges — on June 26.
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Three women, all out-of-state tourists, were killed and four people were injured in the second mass shooting to erupt in Los Angeles County in eight days -- the sixth in California this month, according to police. The latest shooting occurred Saturday in the upscale Beverly Crest neighborhood of Los Angeles, bordering Beverly Hills. The mass-casualty shooting unfolded around 2:30 a.m. when police received multiple 911 calls of a shooting in progress at a short-term luxury rental home, according to the Los Angeles Police Department.
Bloody footprint at Murdaugh murder scene was not from either victim, witness says
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A 91-year-old woman has reportedly fallen victim to a seemingly random attack in San Francisco's Richmond District. The incident occurred at around 11 a.m. on Thursday, according to ABC7 News reporter Dion Lim, who spoke to the victim's daughter. Just two minutes after the victim left her 47th Ave. home, a man allegedly came "out of nowhere," punched her and knocked her into a concrete planter bed.
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I just bought new vehicle which requires a double din. My single has been sold.
Perhaps you guys could suggest a deck.
I just had a JVC Kd A815 I bought this winter. It was perfect for my needs but as I said it's not a fit in my new car. I want double din.
Check out the Pioneer 4300DVD. 4v pre-outs but it's a great deck and can be had at a great price.
JVC does make the 815 in a double din form.
All 3 have 4v preouts, decent EQ's and full iPod control through USB. The 840 and 4300 have a full 7" screen, the 740 is a 6.1" with buttons/rotary **** on the side. 840 and 740 both have Bluetooth and a removable face where as the 4300 is a non-removable. All 3 have nice displays and user-interfaces, JVC did well with this year's new double dins.
JVC does have the KWXR810 like Wasted911 said but it only has 2.5v preouts which is kind of a bummer.
I cant over hype the AVIC-X920bt, it is a simple good looking HU with 6.1" touch screen w/ pandora, blue tooth, ipod this and that, ipone this and that, it is a nav unit (that is pretty good too). And the radio and CD/ DVD player sound great! and it is heavily discounted right now ($650 to 790). CD and DVD are loaded via the front so there is no stupid motorized face to screw up 2 years from now, 24 bit D/A, 7 bands of EQ, sensitive radio.
hey john, im trying to decide between the x920bt or the avic-z2. i just wanted to know your opinion on why you dont like the z2 that much(i think i read in another post you thought the load time was poor) i just really like the fact that you can load all your cd's and ipod on to the hard-drive but dont want to buy it if it is an inferior unit, i just bought a ton of nice stuff and really want to utilize the best sounding head unit, best DAC and eq.
Most decent units will accept an external USB and USB's are cheap to buy so it doesn't really make the Z2 anymore attractive in this regard. Or just do what I do and use an old Ipod with lots of memory to store everything.
The internal Audio memory on the Z2 is only 10GB (that's not that much if you're storing large files which I'm assuming you are since you want best SQ). Plus the EQ on it is only a 3-band, it only has 2.2v outputs, and has a crummy crossover. Not a great source unit IMO if you want the "best sounding head unit".
We recently sold our D Din and relpaced it with a single. We placed tweeters in the opening for individual left and right staging and covered it all with grill cloth. Looks clean and almost factory, can't see the tweets or tell there a double D opening. Been working out great for us.


All of that is work and it's hard. But it reduced my anxiety tremendously. And when I found meditation and was able to dive even more deeply into my mind, it was then that my anxiety ceased to torment me. At the end of the day, the skill of concentration is what yoga really is, and that's what will change your life. What makes you a yogi is living in the moment on and off your mat, with kindness and love for yourself and everyone around you—no matter what. That's yoga and that takes constant practice.
Southern California's Alexandria Crow is a teacher and teacher trainer who offers vinyasa flow classes with methodical and challenging sequences that encourage mindful attention. Besides her work inside the pages of Yoga Journal as a model and writer, she's appeared in Yoga Journal's Fitness Challenge and Total Body Yoga DVDs, as well as Hard Tail Forever's ad campaigns.
How to deal with frustration in a yoga class?
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