text:
Estate & trust litigation attorneys
Christina M. Wickers
Top rated estate & trust litigation attorney in Torrance, California
Wickers, Wickers & Admans LLP
Practice Areas: Estate & trust litigation, Estate planning & probate, Family law; view more
Licensed in California since: 2012
Education: Western State University College of Law
Selected to Rising Stars: 2020, 2022
Virtual Appointments Free Consultation
Torrance, CA 90505 Visit website
Practice Areas: Estates & Trusts, Elder Abuse, Conservatorships, Real Property, Business Litigation, Family
Ms. Wickers is the Managing Partner of Wickers, Wickers & Admans LLP. Ms. Wickers handles clients legal needs including representing clients in trial, and appeals. In March of 2021, Ms. Wickers was shortlisted for the Women in Law Awards 2021, by Lawyer Monthly Magazine, recognizing her achievement and success in the legal industry. Click here to read the article. Christina Wickers has obtained a Top Attorney Avvo Rating of 10/10. She has also been selected by Super Lawyers, Rising Stars List, for Southern California, in 2020 and 2022 as a top rated Trusts and Estates Litigation Attorney in Southern California. No more than 2.5% of attorneys in the State of California are named to the Super Lawyers, Rising Star List. Also in 2020, Ms. Wickers has been included in the American Registry as "Southern California's Top Young Attorneys" which was published in Los Angeles Magazine, July of 2020 as well as being published in the Los Angeles Business Journal in June of 2021 for the Women's Leadership Award.
Ms. Wickers attended Loyola Marymount University and graduated from California State University Northridge receiving a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, with a Finance Emphasis. She obtained her Juris Doctor from Western State College of Law.
Ms. Wickers authored an article for the California State Bar, Trusts and Estates Quarterly titled, Das Closes the Door on Civil Liability for Financial Institutions Failure to Make Mandated Elder Abuse Report, Volume 16, Issue 4. Click here to view the article.
During law school, she worked close to full time at this office, while earning the Witkin Award for Academic Excellence in Property; working on Western State's Law Review as a: Student Writer, Symposium Editor and, served on Law Review Board of Directors as their Media Editor.
At law school, she also received a Certificate of Distinguished Public Service and worked with the students serving on the WSU Student Bar Association as the Class Representative for two years. Ms. Wickers also wrote a monthly article in the WSU newspaper, The Precedent called "Ask Christina" and served as the Vice President for their Federalist Society.
Additionally, in the Spring of 2012, Ms. Wickers and Ms. Elmira Danyelian won Second Place at the California State Bar 2012 Negotiation Competition at the University of California, Los Angeles School of Law. Participating schools included Loyola Law School, UC Berkley School of Law, UC Davis School of Law, UC Hastings College of the Law, UCLA School of Law, University of San Francisco School of Law, Chapman University School of Law, California Western School of Law, Empire College School of Law, Golden Gate University School of Law, Santa Clara University School of Law, Southwestern School of Law, Thomas Jefferson School of Law, University of San Francisco School of Law and Whittiier School of Law. In 2011, Ms. Wickers was a California State Bar Certified Law Clerk at the Los Angeles District Attorney's Office in the Hard Core Gang Unit.
In 2012-2013 Ms. Wickers was an assistant coach to the WSU Negotiation Team. In December 2013, she served as a judge the American Collegiate's Moot Court Association, Regional Moot Court Competition, at Long Beach State. She also served as a judge in the 10th Annual American Bar Association Labor & Employment Law Mock Trial Competition.
Some Non-Profit organizations that Christina Wickers has volunteered for include: American Cancer Society, Relay for Life Beach Cities; Hope 4 Kids, San Pedro; Cancer Support Community, Redondo Beach; Orangewood Children's Foundation, Orange; Elks Lodge Redondo Beach.
Estate & trust litigation, Estate planning & probate, Family law, Business litigation
Will contests, Estate planning, Guardianships & conservatorships, Living wills, Power of attorney, Probate & estate administration, Trusts, Wills, Adoption, Alimony & spousal support, Child support, Custody & visitation, Dissolution, Divorce, Domestic violence, Name change, Paternity, Prenuptial agreements, Marital property, Same sex family law, Father's rights
30% Estate & trust litigation
30% Estate planning & probate
30% Family law
10% Business litigation
First Admitted: 2012, California
Professional Webpage: https://wickerslaw.com/about/christinamwickers/
Answered questions presented by students in the monthly news letter for the law school., Ask Christina, Western State College Of Law Students
Ms. Wickers attended Loyola Marymount University and graduated from California State University Northridge receiving a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, with a Finance Emphasis, 2007
Scholarly Lectures/Writings:
California State Bar, Trusts and Estates Quarterly titled, Das Closes the Door on Civil Liability for Financial Institutions Failure to Make Mandated Elder Abuse Report, Volume 16, Issue 4, Author, Das Closes the Door on Civil Liability for Financial Institutions Failure to Make Mandated Elder Abuse Report, California State Bar, Trusts and Estates Quarterly, Trusts & Estates, 2010
Symposium Editor, Western State Law Review, 2010–2011, Editor, Symposium, Western State Law Review, 2011
Board of Directors, Western State Law Review, 2011–2012, Board of Directors, Western State Law Review, Western State Law Review, 2012
Worked with speakers, students and staff to produce the yearly Law Review Symposium on various legal topics., Symposium Board, Western State University Law Review, 2011
On board of the Law Review. Reviewed articles for publication, maintained and directed all online presence, including creating the website for law review., Media Editor, Western State University Law Review, 2011
Wrote the article that was published in the California State Bar Trust and Estates Quarterly on Financial Elder Abuse, 2009–2010, Student Writer, Western State University Law Review, 2010
Reviewed articles to be considered for publication. Created and maintained all online presence for the Law Review., Board Member, Media Editor, Western State University Law Review, 2012
Bar/Professional Activity:
Western States Bar Association, 1L and 2L Student Representative, 2008–2011, 2011
Court Appointed Counsel for the Los Angeles Superior Court representing Proposed Conservatee's rights (2018 to present)., 2023
CAALA Member 2016 to Present, 2023
South Bay Bar Association Member 2012-Present, 2023
Los Angeles County Bar Member from 2012-Present, 2023
Pro bono/Community Service:
Volunteer, Orangewood Children's Foundation, Orange, 2012
Volunteer, Cancer Support Community, Redondo Beach, 2012
Volunteer, American Cancer Society, Relay for Life Beach Cities, 2007
Judge, 10th Annual American Bar Association Labor & Employment Law Mock Trial Competition, 2013
Assistant Coach, WSU Negotiation Team, 2012-2013, 2013
Judge of Regional Moot Court Competition American Collegiate's Moot Court Association 2013–Present, 2022
Ms. Wickers currently volunteers for organizations such as Hope for Kids, San Pedro; Elks Lodge, Redondo Beach; Saint James Catholic Church; Los Angeles Lawyers Philharmonic and Legal Voices; Jim Murray Memorial Foundation. She also serves as Court Appointed Counsel in Los Angeles County on Conservatorship cases., 2021
Verdicts/Settlements:
Daily Journal, Verdicts and Settlements, Case/Number IN Re: The James Leslie Alford Living Trust/ 30-2014-00749848-PR-TR-CJC; Undue Influence, Financial Elder Abuse. , 2017
Honors/Awards:
, Rising Stars List, Super Lawyers, 2020
Recognizing her achievement and success in the legal industry and was Winner in the category of – Estates, Trusts & Family Law – Lawyer of the Year in 2022., Estates, Trusts & Family Law Lawyer of the Year, Women In Law Awards, Lawyer Monthly Magazine, 2022
, Super Lawyers Rising Stars, Super Lawyers, 2022
Top 10 Attorney Award for the State of California, Family Law., Top 10 Attorney Award Family Law, National Academy of Family Law Attorney's, 2021
Winner in the category of Trusts & Estates - USA., Lawyer Monthly Legal Awards, Lawyer Monthly Magazine, 2020
, National Academy of Family Law Attorney's Top Ten Ranking in the State of California 2021, National Academy of Family Law Attorney's, 2021
, Women's Leadership Award, Los Angeles Business Journal - June 2021, 2021
, Southern California's Top Young Attorneys, American Registry, Published in Los Angeles Magazine, 2020
Recognizing Ms. Wickers achievement and success in the legal industry and winner of the category of Trusts & Estates - USA., Women in Law Awards 2021, Lawyer Monthly Magazine, 2021
Highest commendation for outstanding community service to the disadvantaged and disabled children of Hope 4 Kids Full Armor Mentors. For dedication, commitment and generosity to the youth of the 15th Council District., City of Los Angeles Certificate of Commendation, City of Los Angeles, Joe Buscaino, Councilmember 15th District, 2019
Outstanding Community Service to children and famalies Hope 4 Kids in 2016., Certificate of Recognition, City of Los Angeles, State of California, 2016
Certificate of Recognition-Outstanding Community Service, City of Carson, 2013, Certificate of Recognition-Outstanding Community Service, City of Carson, 2013
Certificate of Distinguished Public Service, Western State College of Law, 2012, Certificate of Distinguished Public Service,, Western State College of Law,, 2012
Academic Excellence Property, Witkin, 2009, Academic Excellence Property, Witkin, 2009
Certificate of Appreciation-Dedication to Children, City of Los Angeles, 2013, Certificate of Appreciation-Dedication to Children, City of Los Angeles, 2013
2nd Place, Negotiation Competition, California State Bar, 2012, 2nd Place, Negotiation Competition, California State Bar, 2012
On behalf or the City of Los Angeles, thanks to Ms. Wickers for her time and dedication to the 2013 Hope 4 Kids/San Pedro Elks Lodge "Toys for Tots." Also commending her contributions to the children of the community during the holiday season and beyond., Certificate of Appreciation, City of Los Angeles, 2013
The highest level attainable through the Schools Public Service Program. Her service included a meaningful mix of work on behalf of the County Prosecutor's office of Los Angeles, in the Hard Core Gang Unit, under attorney Alva Lin, and one of the County's most successful faith-biased charities, serving abused and at-risk children. She generously donated her time despite a demanding law school schedule and a position of exceptional responsiblity with the Law Office of Rodney W. Wickers, Certificate of Exemplary Public Service, Western State University College of Law, 2012
Outstanding community service to the disadvantaged children and families of Hope 4 Kids in 2017. By Joe Buscaino, Councilmember 15th District, Eric Garcetti, Mayor., Certificate of Recognition, City of Los Angeles, 2017
Beach Cities Relay for Life, Event Co-Chair of the 2008 Relay for Life., Exceptional Dedication, American Cancer Society, 2008
Academic Excellence in Property., Witkin Award, Witkin & Western State University College of Law, 2009
Outstanding community service to disadvantaged and disabled children of Hope 4 Kids Full Armor Mentors. Dedication, commitment ang generosity to the youth of the 15th Council District. Signed by Joe Buscaino, Councilmember 15th District., Certificate of Commendation, City of Los Angeles, 2019
Time, and dedication to the children in the community., Certificate of Appreciation, City of Los Angeles, 2015
For outstanding valuable service to the residents of Los Angeles. For commitment and dedication to the community., Certificate of Congressional Commendation, US House of Representatives, 2013
In recognition and sincerest appreciation for outstanding community service and inspirational dedication in support of the Hope for Kids and San Pedro Elks Lodge Christmas Outreach. Exceptional leadership and remarkable contributions to the community., Certificate of Recognition, The City of Carson, 2013
Second Place, California State Bar Environmental Law Negotiation Competition, California State Bar, 2012
For outstanding community service provided to Hope 4 Kids disadvantaged and disabled children and their families, at the annual "Christmas Outreach" event. , City of Los Angeles Certificate of Appreciation, Janice Hahn, Councilwoman 15th District, 2009
In honor of outstanding and valuable service to the residents of Los Angeles. In recognition of commitment and dedication to the community., Certificate of Congressional Commendation, U.S. House of Representatives, 2013
Other Outstanding Achievements:
Featured in Lawyer Monthly Magazine for Trust and Estate law., 2022
Choir Member LA Lawyers Philharmonic & Legal Voices 2013–2014, 2013
Environmental Law Section of the State of California, 13th Annual Student Negotiations Competition, March 23, 2012, 2nd Place, 2012
Industry Groups:
Office location for Christina M. Wickers
2 Years Rising Stars
Rising Stars: 2020, 2022
Additional sources of information about Christina M. Wickers
Visit my FindLaw® profile
Website - www.wickerslaw.com…
LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/chris…
Facebook - www.facebook.com/pages/La…
Twitter - @wickerseye…
FindLaw
LawInfo
I was honored to be selected to the Super Lawyers Rising Stars list for 2020 as a top rated Trusts and Estate Litig… https://t.co/bOnfuk9eby
Well put. https://t.co/k2UBqnfa6k
Great show ladies. It gave me chills and brought tears to my eyes. That is Brenda, a dreamer and a doer. Talented… https://t.co/2zriw0Wb5v
Attorney resources for Christina M. Wickers
Required fields are marked with an asterisk (*).
To: Christina M. Wickers Super Lawyers: Potential Client Inquiry
* Phone (e.g. xxx-xxx-xxxx)
* State AL AK AZ AR CA CO CT DE FL GA HI ID IL IN IA KS KY LA ME MD MA MI MN MS MO MT NE NV NH NJ NM NY NC ND OH OK OR PA RI SC SD TN TX UT VT VA WA DC WV WI WY
* Please explain your legal situation (999 characters max)
The information contained in this web site is intended to convey general information. It should not be construed as legal advice or opinion. It is not an offer to represent you, nor is it intended to create an attorney-client relationship. The use of the internet or this contact form for communication is not necessarily a secure environment. Contacting a lawyer or law firm email through this service will not create an attorney-client relationship, and information will not necessarily be treated as privileged or confidential.
Your IP address 44.213.63.130 and location have been logged to assist in preventing abuse of this service.


We want to help people gain insight into their behaviors. Stay tuned on our blog!
We want to be a resource for the community. Sign up on our mailing list to be updated.
Find out how we plan on giving back to the community.
We want to make our help as accessible to our students as possible. Chime in with your suggestions and wish-list by contacting us!
Fill out your LearningProfile to get started today!
(C) 2018 Bright Brain Learning LLC. ACT and SAT are registered trademarks of their respective owners and do not endorse the services of Bright Brain Learning LLC.


Great post, David. I like this one. I even snagged a quote from you, "Ultimately, art cannot be put into any box besides its own creation." and pinned it to my Quotes page on my website – linking back to here.
Thank you, Lucinda. Marjorie Garber has a lot to say about art and literature in her recent book. It asked me to make a few remarks as well.


text:
Q&A with Jason Hattrick-Simpers, College of Engineering & Computing
The stuff that makes modern life so comfortable — coffeemakers, smartphones, cars, airplanes and all the other devices that make the technological world go around — depends on materials, the building blocks of all that stuff. To speed the pace of research progress in developing new and better materials, the U.S. started the Materials Genome Initiative, and two of the national leaders in the effort are here at the University of South Carolina: Jochen Lauterbach and Jason Hattrick-Simpers of the College of Engineering and Computing. We asked Hattrick-Simpers a few questions about the MGI and the progress that's been made so far.
When did the MGI get underway?
The MGI has its roots in the so-called Integrate Computational Materials Engineering movement that really started gaining traction in the last few years of the 20th century. Scientists suddenly had access to powerful personal computers, and reliable modeling tools were being developed that bridged between atomic-scale properties and macro-scale properties. So scientists for the first time were able to model something like a metal blade in a jet turbine to obtain temperature and stress profiles and use that information to create materials-design criteria. The actual MGI was formally announced by the White House in 2011.
What is the goal of the MGI?
The plan is to reduce the amount of time required for the develop-ment and deployment of new materials in applications (old and emerging). The stated goal is a two-fold reduction, from the current 10 to 20 years down to 5 to 10 years.
How is the MGI meant to achieve that?
The goal is to create an integrated research workflow that brings together computational, experimental and data science tools. The basic premise is to come up with a new idea or hypothesis, then use modern high-throughput experimental instruments to test that idea. The large data sets produced from these experiments are then combined with existing theoretical and experimental data sets and probed with data science tools to identify so-called "hidden" correlations. These correlations can then be investigated using computational models to uncover the new "rules" for material selection that guide the next round of experiments.
The name is similar to the Human Genome Initiative. How are they related?
The overlap between the two names is intentional. A genome is a set of information encoded in the language of DNA, which is the blueprint for an organism's growth and development. By mapping this genome in the latter part of the 20th century, revolutionary new treatments for all manner of human diseases, among other applications, are being developed. We know that materials also have genomes that can be associated with their final functionality, and that if we can successfully map them, then true "materials by design" could be realized. The benefits for existing technologies, as well as next-generation technologies, will be incredible if we are successful.
What kind of progress have you made so far?
A DARPA project on which I collaborated with Professor Lauterbach was very successful because of our combined expertise in using high-throughput experimental techniques and combing through large data sets to find optimal materials. In another project, we recently demonstrated the creation of high-temperature coatings for nuclear cladding materials, which could have far-reaching implications in the safety of nuclear reactors. During a nuclear meltdown, high-temperature steam reacts with the zircaloy cladding to produce zirconia and hydrogen gas, which will explode when exposed to the atmosphere. Such explosions were the primary causes of the uncontrolled release of radioactive byproducts during the Fukushima-Daiichi and Chernobyl nuclear disasters. New materials that can slow down the rate of this reaction, thus reducing the quantity of hydrogen produced, are an area of urgent need. We used a combination of computationally guided materials synthesis, high throughput experimentation and large-data analysis tools to identify novel iron-based coatings that address this need.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


Seventeen years ago, someone living in Brazil paid the extraordinary sum of £171,000 to the current 9th Earl Spencer for the right to call himself Lord of the Manor of Wimbledon. It broke a record for sales of this kind and remains unexplained since the lordship carries no power. The man's reasons for doing so have never been revealed as he requested anonymity.
This came to light ten years ago when it was revealed by the Barnes and Mortlake Historical Society. Wimbledon was once part of a medieval manor that stretched over 7000 acres, extending to Mortlake, Roehampton, Putney, and East Sheen. However it was separate by the late 13th century.
In medieval times the manor was the centre of everyday life. The Lord of the Manor had personal control over all of the demesne lands within the area while the entire resident population were his tenants. A manorial court met several times a year and laid down regulations administering land holdings, taxation and basic law and order. Over the centuries the powers of the Lord of the Manor declined as legal responsibilities and land ownership passed to others.
By the 19th century the lordship only controlled the use of common land and in the 1860s the 4th Earl Spencer lost his battle to reorganise public access to Wimbledon and Putney Commons (see Heritage page 16 November 2012). He had already sold off his own private estate – the then 1200-acre Wimbledon Park - for property development in 1846. The sale ended a century old personal link between the Spencer family and Wimbledon although they retained financial compensation for the loss of control over the commons until 1958. They also kept the title.
On 8 July 1994, just two years before selling the title to the mysterious Brazilian, Earl Spencer, brother of Diana, Princess of Wales, was the last Lord of the Manor to perform a special local ceremony when he formally opened what is now the Museum of Wimbledon at 22 Ridgway after refurbishment.
Many other rich and powerful figures had been Lords of the Manor before the Spencers. Among them were Archbishop of Canterbury Thomas Cranmer and royal adviser Thomas Cromwell under King Henry VIII, and the Cecil family under Queen Elizabeth I. It was the Cecils who built the first and most spectacular of Wimbledon's four manor houses. How different things were in those days!
One last point. Being Lord of the Manor will become even more irrelevant in October this year when manorial incidents - the rights a holder may exercise over other people's land – will lapse formally under the Land Registration Act of 2002. Nevertheless, the current title holder will still be able to call himself Lord of the Manor of Wimbledon if he chooses.


The Fiancée of slain Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi,refuse to honour the invitation of President Trump to the white house.
Turkish officials and some U.S. lawmakers charge the crown prince ordered the operation in which Jamal Khashoggi was killed .
Only days after Saudi Arabia at long last conceded that Khashoggi had been killed inside its consulate in Istanbul.She was put under 24-hour police protection.
Khashoggi, who was a Washington Post feature writer, had once been close to Saudi Arabia's imperial family yet had become progressively condemning of the kingdom's human rights abuse as of late. He was living in willful outcast in Washington, D.C., and had made a trip to the Saudi office in Istanbul to to obtain marriage documents.
She was one of the last individual to see Khashoggi alive, having gone with him to the office on Oct. 2. She sat tight outside for about 12 hours, alerting friends and officials when he failed to emerge.
Be that as it may, the oldest child of slain Saudi columnist Jamal Khashoggi touched base in Washington with his family from Saudi Arabia on Thursday, as indicated by two sources close to the family, after U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo pushed for his arrival.
Salah Khashoggi, who holds dual U.S.-Saudi citizenship and had so far been under a travel ban, departed Saudi Arabia on Wednesday.
Salah Khashoggi's takeoff from Saudi Arabia came multi day after a meeting at the al Yamama Palace in Riyadh in which he and other relatives got sympathies from King Salman and the crown prince.
He and his family joined his mom and his three siblings in Washington, said the sources, both talking on state of obscurity.


OAP and TV host Toke Makinwa admits to sometimes getting paid to show up at events. The host of the 2014 Headies Toke Makinwa in an interview with City People Magazine speaks up about how she gets paid to attend shows. Makinwa describes herself as the life of the party and explains that she has grown as a brand and people will always want to associate with a solid brand especially in marketing a good or service.
" Just like people feel like you been at certain events might also add some glamour to it. I see it as work as well. I really don't go out like that, in terms of having fun or chilling at home. I think I enjoy the fact that it's a job and I am getting paid for it. I am the life of a party and that hasn't changed. I love talking, I love to go out to listen to music and have a good time"
The Vlogger attributed her success as a media personality to her husband Maje Ayida who is ever so understanding and supporting. She refers to her husband of 8 months as her biggest fan.


Mole Creek Hotel offers 12 guest rooms, accommodating up to 30 guests. Facilities include a sunny lounge with deck and a function room with stage, private bar and timber dance floor.
Enjoy delicious country-style meals in our cosy dining room, open 7 days for lunch and dinner. Home-made pies, toasted sandwiches and other snacks are available all day in the bar. Private functions, parties and conferences can be catered for in our large function room.
It's true! People come from around the world to enjoy the ambience as well as the artifacts, stories and memorabilia featuring the Tassie Tiger. Is the Tiger gone forever? Read the stories, talk to the locals and decide for yourself.
Ask about the Mole Creek Hotel bushwalker drop off and pick up service. Our 22 seater airconditioned bus will avoid the worry of leaving your vehicle unattended in remote locations. Also available, by arrangement, tours of Thylacine (Tasmanian Tiger) Country.


text:
Nomination Info
Stone Paving Project
Firefighter's Journal
Membership Fire Departments
Surrounded by firefighter's gear, antique trucks, and an array of firefighting memorabilia; we love having visitors'!
Monday-Friday, 9:00am to 4:00pm
Or weekends by appointment
52 N. Main Street * Garrison, ND
(701) 463-2345/ (800) 799-4242
The North Dakota Firefighter's Museum is dedicated solely to preserving and presenting the storied histories, rich traditions and heritage of firefighting, firefighters and the fire service within the great State of North Dakota. The museum's officials made the public announcement in 2005 and held the Museum's Grand Opening during Fire Prevention Week in October 2006.
Through the efforts of Donald H. Huettl family, with the support of the Community of Garrison, and the Executive Board of the North Dakota Firefighter's Association, this Non-Profit Corporation has been established to organize, build and operate a museum to preserve and present firefighting related records, photos, artifacts, memorabilia and equipment.
Each and every department in the state has a rich history that is replete with outstanding, colorful, or interesting firefighters, equipment, apparatus, and incidents. The organizers are asking individuals and fire departments across the state to document and share their histories with the public through the North Dakota Firefighter's Museum.
In 2012, the North Dakota Firefighter's Museum became home to the North Dakota Fallen Firefighter's Memorial. The memorial remembers and recognizes all North Dakota fallen firefighter's whom have lost their lives in the line of duty. The memorial features a front stone honoring all firefighter's past and present as well as three flagpoles flying a United State Flag, North Dakota Flag, and a Fallen Firefighter's Flag. Behind the stone are two granite pillars that bear the names of each fallen firefighter etched in the granite. The NDFA Past President's Association chose the museum to be home of the memorial and worked diligently in fundraising money to make it happen.
We are excited to announce our 2018 Hall of Fame Inductees!
Randy Burley- Oakes, ND
Active Firefighter since 1985 (Retired 2018)
Chief of 17 years, Trustee- Oakes Fire Department
Fire School Instructor
Dale Zich- Mott, ND
Active Firefighter since 1977
Chief, Assistant Chief, Fire Marshal, Training Officer, Captain- Mott Fire Department. Lifetime Member of NDFA
Please join us on Saturday, October 13th for the NDFM Hall of Fame Banquet at the Garrison Auditorium. Open House at Museum at 4:30pm, Fallen Firefighter Memorial Remembrance Ceremony at 5:00pm, Social following, and Dinner at 6:00pm with ceremony to follow. Please contact 463-2345 to reserve your ticket: $25.00 Prime Rib Dinner.
52 N MAIN ST, PO BOX 1000- GARRISON, ND * 800-799-4242/701-463-2345 * NDFM@RESTEL.COM


Today's guest on Thai women living abroad is Khun Somsri Sonphimai. Khun Somsri was born and raised in Phimai, Nakhon Ratchasima in the north-east of Thailand, but moved to Barrow, also known as Utqiaġvik, Alaska, USA, via Missouri. In this interview Khun Somsri talks about her observations and experiences from over 20 years of living in the USA.
First of all, thanks for joining me. I'd like to start by asking a bit about what life was like for you growing up in the North East of Thailand.
I was born in Phimai, Nakhon Ratchasima. My family were rice farmers and I was the oldest of three daughters. I also had two younger brothers. I watched my father and mother work hard and I felt very sorry for them. I told myself that if I could have money, I would not let my parents continue to have such difficulties any more. Life as a rice farmer in former times was very difficult. I remember when I was approximately aged 9 – 11 years old, my father cultivating from 5 o'clock in the morning, attending to the rice and scattering the seedlings. I would help until it was 7 am, when I had to go to school. Nowadays, it's so much easier than before as we have technology like harvesters and pushcarts for growing rice on the land. When I returned from school, I had to do the house work, which included; cleaning the house, boiling the rice, scooping the water, but I waited for my mother to come and do the cooking. I couldn't do the cooking at that stage. During those days, we didn't have tap water, and we didn't have electricity. We had to go and collect firewood to burn in order to cook the food. I remember having to get the water from a friend's house. They had a well and kept 3 huge water jugs full up all the time. One jar was for washing vegetables, another was for washing your feet before going up to bed and the last one was for use in the bathroom. The work was shared between myself and my younger brothers and sisters. At weekends we all went to the rice field to help mother and father.
On graduation from level 6, my father and mother sent me to work in Bangkok at 11 years old. I did various work ranging from the packing of food, cutting fabric , and working on car brakes. Working on car brakes and with a hot oven gave me many scars on my arms. The problem was, whilst taking brakes out of the oven, if you were not really careful, your arms touched the sides of the cooking stove. I also looked after elderly people for a while. I had to do everything for them, because they couldn't help themselves anymore. I would sleep in the same room as them to keep an eye on them at night. I stayed in the hospital for 3 months until they died. At that stage, I was 14 years old. Finally, at age 17, I came to America. Well, that was life in Thailand… after that it was all about life in America for me.
Which part of America did you move to and what were your first impressions of life in the USA.
I was 17 years old when I came to America, I came with a Thai family. On arrival in America, we lived in the state of Missouri. Khun Phuying was a doctor and she had the opportunity to be able to further her studies in America. She had 3 children aged 2, 5 and 7 years old. During the period of further studies in America, she took her family to live with her as well. Whilst in Thailand I worked for her and looked after the children. She then offered me the opportunity to come to America and look after the children there as well. I agreed to her offer instantly and without hesitation. I was so excited and happy to be going to America. On arrival in America and for the first part, I missed home so much. I would go to bed and cry each night before going to sleep. I didn't have any friends, I couldn't speak the language and I had to do everything . I was her servant. I worked in the house washing – ironing clothes, cooking and looking after the three children every day. I worked continuously each day without a single day off. I lived with them for 8 years and I never returned home to Thailand during that time. Very luckily though, she was able to extend my visa to stay for another 8 years. Khun Phuying completed her studies and graduated with a PH.D (doctor of philosophy, academic degree) and they all returned to Thailand. I met with a young American man, got married and continued to live in America. I am now divorced, and these days I live in Barrow, Alaska, USA.
When you first arrived in America from Thailand, were there any cultures or practices that you found particularly strange. Something that could be termed as culture shock. Could you give me at least 3 instances please.
There were several things that I felt were strange regarding culture here and differences between here and Thailand.
I noticed in Missouri that the majority of elderly people live alone and take care of themselves. If they can't take care of themselves then they will move into a nursing home to be looked after. They don't come and live with the children or for the children to look after them as they do in Thailand. It's very rare to see the parents or elderly members of the family living with their children.
I also noticed that when the children reached 18 years old plus, they would move out of the family home and live by themselves. However, when I moved to Barrow, Alaska the thing that I noticed most was that the children live with and are still looked after by their parents. It doesn't matter if they are 18 or much older, they are still looked after by their parents. Another thing that shocked me was that the parents help their children with money. In Thailand it's the exact opposite. The majority of the children of Thai families will help their parents with money. Here, even when they all go out to restaurants to eat, it's the parents that pay.
Finding work is not restricted by being too old for a position. If you have the experience and the knowledge then there are opportunities to easily find work regardless of whether you are older. This is not the same in Thailand. When older in Thailand, even if you have experience and knowledge for positions, the opportunities will still be minimal, especially working in an office. If members of your family get sick like your parents, spouse or children and they need looking after, then here you have the opportunity to take care of them. You are granted permission to take care of sick family members for up to 3 months without being dismissed from your employment. This is without pay of course. Employees who have just given birth are able to to take the child to work for the first year.
Age regarding dating women: Here, they don't worry about dating an older woman. This is also not the same in Thailand. In Thailand, if you are 30 years and older then you are basically classed as being too old to date or start a family with. Here though, if you are a woman aged 40 – 50 and over then it's still dating as normal.
How difficult was it adjusting to life in Alaska and culture from a Thai national's point of view? What were the most difficult things to adjust to.
I don't think it's difficult, if you're not abundantly concerned about everything. People mostly keep themselves to themselves and have very little interaction with each other. Having said that, If you have a topic of urgency or are stressed and in need of help, they will help you. Learn the customs of the local people, your understanding will increase and you will make progress in adapting to your new home. The city where I live nowadays is the native place from the Eskimos. Mostly the Eskimo people are quiet, they don't really greet anyone and don't look that friendly, or this is what I first thought. I wondered why they didn't ever look very cheerful and why they never greeted anyone. Eventually though, I realised that it's just their way, it's what they are like. I also realised in time that if you greet them beforehand, then they will exchange a greeting and a little chat with you. The people here are approximately 60% Eskimo, 20% white and the are rest made up of Asian, Hispanic, Black and Islanders.
Food is a strange subject. They like to hunt animals, both at sea and on land. The thing that I still cannot accept is their custom of hunting whales two times a year. I feel really sorry for the whale. I've already observed them dragging the whale up on the beach. The city where I live is next to the beach. It's a very big mammal, but they will take the whale meat and give out to the neighbours. I've already tried a bit, but I cannot eat it.
People from Alaska like to go out fishing and hunting, Alaska is famous for fishing and hunting. Tourists come from all over the world in order to fish and hunt in the state of Alaska. Alaskan people love the outdoor life and like the cold weather. When they go abroad, the weather in some places is inclined to be too warm. They don't like to go to Asia at all, because perhaps their bodies cannot adjust to the hot temperatures. Mostly, the men look physically strong and are not meticulous about dressing up. This is mostly due to the weather being so cold that you can't just put on a nice pair of jeans or slacks. The men are the head of the family and they love their families. They look after them very well and pay great attention to their families. They speak frankly and honestly and are very punctual. They appear to live their lives in a simple way.
Regarding the women, they are very much the same. They too are not meticulous about dressing up and they look strong, but they are sweet and gentle in manner. They love their children and their families, and they like to be free to be themselves. They dare to express emotions and voice opinions and are not shy like Thai women.
Before you moved to America, did you perhaps think that the streets of America or that of foreign lands might be paved with gold? After living here for a while, how did you feel then? What are 3 things that you miss most about Thailand, and what 3 things could you now not live without if you left America?
Before I came to America I imagined America as high buildings with people walking along the streets dressed up in elegant suits carrying a leather brief case and going to work. I pictured only high class and wealthy people. But the truth is that the people that have everything work extremely hard. People that have everything are a minority though. America has rural area farming where they grow crops and work all the seasons like they do in Thailand. Some people work hard but earn less and are only just able to put food on the table. Some people don't even have a house to live in, like the beggar along the road. Even the beggar is still quite fortunate though, in that he will receive help from the government. The place where I live has many similarities with my birthplace in Thailand. In Barrow, when the snow melts in the summer, it turns the road into an absolute mud bath.
When I moved to America, I knew there were opportunities here. In America they don't separate classes, everybody has equal rights, everybody has opportunities. Anyone who has the ability can make a successful life. Since I've lived in America, I admit that my life is better, and I have had more opportunities. The comfort and convenience of the lives of my family in Thailand has also increased. However, I did not sit and wait for my husband or other people, I tried to help and rely on myself as much as possible. Americans are very supportive to those who help themselves, and that are independent and self sufficient.
Family: My parents and family that still live in Thailand.
Proper spicy ingredients: Even though I can make adequate Thai food here, the ingredients are not spicy enough as they are in Thailand.
Atmosphere: The warm, friendly and helpful atmosphere that up country folk extend to each other.
Communication: I am very close with my family and I need to keep in regular contact with them.
Thai food: I must at least have rice with chili paste as I can't eat butter, milk and bread every day.
Communication again: I need continued use to the internet and telephone.
After living in Alaska for quite a period of time, are there now cultural things that you find strange in Thailand when you return for a visit? In your opinion, what are the things that Alaska do that you really like.
There are some changes that I see when returning to Thailand, and via my Thai friends Facebook postings. International customs are becoming increasingly popular with Thai people, and It doesn't matter whether it's food, holidays or entertainment. For example, hamburgers, steak, and Starbucks coffee are all over Thailand. I'm very surprised that foods like these are the type of foods that have become popular in Thailand.
Thai people now also celebrate holidays from abroad. For example, Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas. whichever way you turn, you will see stores, department stores with decorated Christmas trees, hotels serving Christmas lunch and social media posts promoting the Happy Christmas message. Now, they even exchange Christmas gifts… What's that all about? I asked my friends on Facebook, what is Christmas? A lot of them don't know, but they celebrate the trend anyway.
Another thing I've noticed that's changed; is that nowadays, nearly every household in Thailand seems to have a pick up truck. On the whole, comfort and convenience has improved greatly, they now have wi-fi, internet and the latest fashionable I phone. The traffic doesn't get any better though. The massive amount of vehicles causes endless traffic jams and the need for constant road repairs. However, the internet and wi-fi has made communication with those far away much easier.
There are many things I like about America and the way they do things. They respect the law and respect the rights of others. Everyone has the same rights, whether you're a woman or a man, whether you are rich or poor, and regardless of whatever country you are from.
They give help in the form of Government aid.
I like other qualities such as Courage, discipline, punctuality and frankness… they say exactly what they mean.
They are very good regarding Innovation and Technology. For example, the iPhone, app, Internet, car, boat, and construction work is of a higher standard than in Thailand. It's like they do all they can to figure out what makes their lives and life in general easier.
Whenever the children do something wrong they will avoid physical punishment. Mostly the parents speak to them and give them a warning instead.
In Barrow, there are no bars and that includes the tourist hotels. This is mainly down to the chaos that alcohol can cause when consumed in large amounts. People that drink to excess harm themselves and others. Barrow is known as a " damp community. " You are allowed to import a small amount of alcohol for your own private use.
When you first arrived in Alaska, how did you feel about Alaskan dishes? Which were the dishes that you liked and which were the dishes that you disliked? Were there any dishes that you felt were really strange, I mean something that you'd never really seen before?
Usually, I stick to Thai food, I'm not particularly fond of trying lots of new foods. The thing I have tried is Caribou. I can eat a bit if it's dipped in a sauce and then fried. However, if it's steak meat, I don't like it. The taste is of very strong game, somewhat pungent and it smells really potent. Caribou is wildlife. They say its a cleaner meat than beef, but I'm not accustomed to the taste at all, and I can't eat it.
The food that I struggle with the most though is Whale. People here will go Whale hunting twice a year, during the months of April and October. After the hunting they will distribute the Whale meat to their friends and neighbours. The men do the hunting and the women collect, cut and clean the meat. This is somewhat similar to Thai people in so much as the men go fishing, and the women prepare and clean the fish.
I have tried Muktuk, but only a mouthful and I couldn't take anymore. Muktuk is skin and blubber of the Whale and usually eaten raw. I had a friend that I worked with who likes Whale meat mixed with blood. My friend offered me some, but I politely apologised and made my excuses… There's no way I can eat that.
Mostly, I think it's the customs and traditions that cause Thai women to appear quiet and orderly. Through this, Thai women can appear as if they are not romantic, because they don't really express in the subject of love – meaning they don't show affection in public. When they go outside walking together they don't hold hands, cuddle and kiss with their lover. Thai people think that actions speak louder than words. They like to take care of and pay attention to the husband, make food, bring up the children and look after the house. Faithful to the husband, but not necessary to tell your husband that you love him over and over again. Your actions already show that you do. But all of the time, foreigners want to hear you tell them that you love them. I think that this is one of the problems in relationships. People here, they like to express and show their feelings.
Another problem is the difference in communication. Thai people don't really speak directly or frankly, they like to speak in a roundabout way or indirectly. Sometimes, the foreign husband or boyfriend will have to guess the subject that his Thai sweetheart is not happy about, and this can cause problems in the relationship. People here though, they speak very bluntly. They say, you must let us know if you like something or if something is not satisfactory. Thais are not like that and sometimes get angry with the husband or boyfriend because he doesn't know the subject of their dissatisfaction. The foreign husband will say, how the hell can I know what's wrong if you don't tell me.
Helping the family take care of parents may be one of the problems in the relationship between Thai women and men here. Thai women have helping the family instilled in them from an early age. If Thai women have the opportunity to work, and earn a living to better themselves, then they should help the family. To take care of the parents to repay their kindness for raising and supporting us from birth. But husbands or boyfriends may not understand why we still need to help the family, because they do not really help their parents or families in that way. They mostly believe that when you have a family of your own, then they should come first.
Interpreter and translator Khun Benjawan Poomsan of Paiboon Language Academy explains a lot about cultural differences in Thai-Western relationships in her book " The Interpreter's Journal – Stories from a Thai and Lao Interpreter." She say's that money is probably the number one issue that starts problems within Thai-Western relationships. This is a quote from the book.
Every unhappy marriage is different, but the most common thread in Thai-Westernrelationship problems is usually related to money. Sound advice is to approach any relationship with a Thai woman with the heart and mind of an accountant. Yes, you're madly in love, but can you afford it? Do you have sufficient income and reserves to support your loved one and the additional expenses that come with her? Don't be delusional; this is the time to be as realistic as you can, and to understand and include her needs. Thai wives will still want to send money to their family in Thailand, year after year. An American husband may want to help out at first, but the demands never cease. A potential solution is for the Thai wife to work and contribute to the family in America and also send what's needed to the family in Thailand. But if she is unable to work because she's taking care of your babies, or for other reasons, the husband has to factor in the amount of money sent to Thailand. Otherwise, the wife will be frustrated and unhappy, and that could trigger arguments and even a potential divorce. If she is self-sufficient, has marketable skills, or has few family obligations, it will be a much smoother and less-expensive adventure.
Could you give me three things that in your opinion are great about living in Alaska? Could you then give me three things that are not so good about living in Alaska?
Income, Very beautiful landscape / scenery, and no need to pay income tax to the state of Alaska.
The cold weather, the expensive cost of living, and the remoteness – traveling back to Thailand feels so far away.
What are your favourite places to visit in Alaska and is Alaska beautiful?


text:
Singaporean writer
Writing Matters: In Conversation with Alfian Sa'at
By Tammy Lai-Ming Ho and Jason Eng Hun Lee
Born in 1977, Alfian Sa'at is an accomplished and versatile Singaporean writer who has published across all three genres of prose, poetry, and drama, winning awards in each genre, including the Singapore Literature Prize, Golden Point Award and Singapore Young Artist Award. His three poetry collections, One Fierce Hour (Landmark Books, 1998), A History of Amnesia (Ethos Books, 2001) and The Invisible Manuscript (Math Paper Press, 2012) were mainly composed during his undergraduate days in Singapore, and he has since published several plays, translations and two short story collections, Corridor: 12 Short Stories (SNP, 1999; Ethos Books, 2015) and Malay Sketches (Ethos Books 2012; Gaudy Boy 2018). Alfian is the Resident Playwright at Wild Rice, a theatre company in Singapore headed by artistic director Ivan Heng.
As part of an ongoing collaborative project entitled Anglophone City Poetics and the Asian Experience, Alfian talks to Tammy Ho and Jason Lee about his first poetic journeys, his relationship with the city-state he calls home, and his reactions to globalization and the cultural imaginary of the Asian city.
Alfian Sa'at
Tammy Ho & Jason Lee: You are perhaps more renowned as a playwright these days, but can you tell us what inspired you to write your first poems?
Alfian: I think I was exposed to poetry through an anthology we used in my secondary school (Raffles Institution) called Touched with Fire. It was my first introduction to poets such as Ted Hughes and Seamus Heaney, and, if I'm not mistaken, also Sylvia Plath and Philip Larkin. I think these poets left quite a significant impression and I started hunting for their collections in the school library. I was at that age when I took on melancholy as adolescent affectation, and I remember committing Larkin's 'Faith Healing' to memory.
I probably started dabbling in poetry when I joined the Creative Arts Programme, which was a residential programme for students who displayed some aptitude in creative writing. This was when I was 15 years old. We spent one week staying at a hostel at the National University of Singapore. Every day, the other students would publish some of their writings in the daily newsletter. This was one of my earliest exposures to a writing community of peers.
Tammy & Jason: Can you list some important moments in your early experiences as a poet?
Alfian: I recall quite distinctly one moment in the canteen, when we were having our lunch. This was usually some rice with a side of meat and vegetables. Just the day before, one of the students had claimed to have found weevils in the rice, and all the complaints about how bad the food was took this rather nightmarish turn. On that day, the newsletter featured many poems, limericks, doodles about weevils.
So I went up to the lady who served us the rice (in styrofoam containers), to top up my drink. She seemed very pleased with the fact that I was returning 'for seconds' and asked me what school I was from. I told her, and her response was that I should eat more, since I was 'so clever' and used 'my brain a lot'.
It was that gap, between the woman's unguarded, even effusive interaction with me, and the fact that she was a target of parody, that made me return to my hostel room to write one of my first poems. I felt all these things that had to do with class and privilege and guilelessness and betrayal and it was something that I could only process through poetry.
Sucharita Dutta-Asane February 11, 2019 2019, Asian writing, Interview, Singapore
The magic of allegory
By Shafey Kidwai Isa Kamari's "Tweet" is a modern-day fable that juxtaposes human condition with natural environment Does the […]
Admin February 17, 2017 Authors, Book, Reviews
Book Review: Kappa Quartet by Daryl Qilin Yam
By Pallavi Narayan
The cover of Kappa Quartet is striking. It's simple — a subway car opening onto a station platform, with Japanese signs hung up, a man in a hat reading a newspaper on the left, a woman in a dress with a closed book on her lap. The man and woman are faceless, and the person entering is incomplete — a faceless individual with a pair of red glasses perched on (in?) air. Indeed, waiting is the trope the novel appears to be premised on. Water is the element kappas are most comfortable in and around, and it too plays a vital role in moving the narrative forward.
The novel plunges right into the action by taking as self-evident the presence of the mythological figure of the kappa, a river demon of Japanese folklore, in the everyday life of humans and cities. Kappas enjoy a solitary existence and distance themselves from even their families, yet they are integrated into fast-paced society: they drink at izakayas, consume nabe at restaurants, play instruments in orchestras, relax at cafes and hotels, marry other kappas and procreate, marry humans and don't, get adopted as children, go to school, in short, do everything that humans do. How they are differentiated is through a hole in the head (while bathing, it is apparently a custom for them to have another individual present scoop up some water and pour it into the hole). In some kappas like Takao the hole is very small, say, "no larger than a five-hundred-yen coin", while his nephew "Goro's was probably three or four times bigger" (p. 145), because of which he is picked on by his classmates.
Kappas can also take away human souls. It is specialists or senmon-ka such as Ms Neo, Haruhito Daisuke and Ahab who are able to see who is without a soul, and which kappa is prone to turn dangerous. It is not elaborated as to how they gain their powers, and how they protect their souls from being sucked away by kappas. The senmon-ka appear throughout the novel, putting forth the question of what is fabricated and what the actual happenings are.
Admin December 20, 2016 Authors, Book, Fiction


Meet Ethan. Ethan loves his family, fireflies, and hiking through the woods to gather stick "bouquets" for his mom (because he likes sticks better than flowers).
Ethan has heterotaxy syndrome, a rare condition causing internal organs to be malformed, misplaced, multiplied, or missing entirely. Ethan was born with 2 left lungs, 5 spleens, and 9 congenital heart defects. In his first four years of life, he's had four open heart surgeries.
"Without insurance we would owe $231,115 for 10 hours in the OR, 1 week in the CICU and 1 week on the cardiac floor. He's had four of these surgeries, some more involved than others. The one before this had him in the CICU for three weeks. We're hopeful that going forwards he'll need fewer and smaller surgeries, but this was not the last time they'll open his chest.
Nearly a quarter million dollars for one surgery. Reinstate lifetime caps and he's out. He blew past the million dollar mark long ago. As long as we have him with us (and I hope with everything in me that it's forever) we will need to pay for expensive medical care. A lifetime cap on benefits is the same as saying, 'Sorry, you're not worth keeping alive anymore. You're just too expensive.' Look my son in the eyes and tell him that he's fought so hard to be here but sorry, you're just not worth it anymore. I dare you."
Read more about Ethan and his mom Alison Chandra in their CNN interview here, and in the article Alison wrote for Vox about her experience going public (and viral) with Ethan's health care story.


text:
Outer Banks Destinations
Outer Banks This Week
Duck & Southern Shores
Nags Head, Kill Devil Hills & Kitty Hawk
Roanoke Island & Manteo
Like the Outer Banks This Week Facebook page to stay connected! LIVE LOCAL UPDATES! Subscribe to our newsletter.
Dining Promotions
Surf Reports
Hotels, Motels, B&B's And Campgrounds
Rental Deals & Offers
Accommodation Offers
Orgs. & Nonprofits
Outer BanksNags Head, Kill Devil Hills & Kitty HawkAttractionsAttractions in Nags Head, NC
content_1000_1
Outer Banks COVID-19 Information
Click here for details on Phase 3 of North Carolina's reopening guidelines.
Attractions in Nags Head, NC
Nags Head Beach
Natural wonders top the list for attractions in Nags Head, NC. The beach is the main entree with soundside bathing and treks to Jockey's Ridge as exciting side dishes. Portions of Nags Head Woods are also here and provide a chance to explore one of the most varied and rich maritime forests on the East Coast. Explore Nags Head attractions by foot, bicycle or watercraft for a complete view of the fragile ecosystem. Or, if you're on the adventuresome side, fly high above the narrow strip of land on a hang glider or in a plane.
Whether you're snorkeling for shells, kiting on the ridge, biking or walking the town bike path, traveling a wooded trail, hang gliding, sailing, kayaking or surfing, attractions in Nags Head, NC, offer many inroads to nature. And, for wonder of another sort, spark your creativity with a visit to Gallery Row or tour the town's public art collection. Or pick up a copy of the Nags Head Walking Tour at local bookstores and explore the original Nags Head cottages known as the Unpainted Aristocracy. State of the art beauty exists in all forms -- natural and manmade -- in this little Outer Banks seaside habitat. Most of it is free for the asking.
Find Attractions by Area
All of Nags Head Area | Kill Devil Hills Attractions | Kitty Hawk Attractions
Interactive Map View
Jennette's Pier
Nags Head Attractions
7223 S. Virginia Dare Trail, The Beach Road, MP 16.5, Nags Head
Jennette's Pier in Nags Head is a star attraction on the Outer Banks, drawing anglers with its 1,000-foot-long pier or visitors who simply want to walk out and watch surfers riding the waves, passing boats, sea turtles and dolphins swimming, pelicans flying overhead and much more. From world-class fishing to educational programs and fun summer camps and programs, Jennette's offers something for everyone. The space also serves as a frequent venue for events and the upstairs Oceanview Hall is available to book for wedding receptions.
The pier is surrounded by wide, clean public beaches, free parking and a bath house. Owned and operated by the N.C. Aquariums, Jennette's state-of-the-art facility includes large aquariums in its pier house alongside educational exhibits, restrooms and a remodeled pier shop. There, anglers can find everything they need for a day of fishing, including different types of rod and reel combos, bait and tackle. Drinks, snacks and souvenir items are also available to commemorate your trip to the beach.
Education is a strong suit of Jennette's Pier. They host school groups on field trips, offer week-long summer classes and camps and teach Fishing 101 – a rundown on the angling essentials – for $15. Check out the Surfside Classroom, or sign up for Family Fishing offered weekdays all summer at 9 a.m.
The pier has a blanket license for all anglers, so if you don't have a fishing license, you're covered. A daily fishing pass costs $14 for adults and $7 for children ages 12 and younger. A three-day pass costs $36 and seven-day pass is $80 (children pay half on passes). Walk-on passes cost $2 for adults and $1 for children. Rods can be rented by the day for $10 (photo ID required). Ask about prices for annual passes, family passes and pin rig passes.
For more information about their events and pier programs, call or see their social media pages. Jennette's is open year round except on Christmas Day. In season, from May through October, their hours are 6 a.m. to midnight every day. Off season hours vary, so call ahead.
Jennette's Pier in Nags Head is a star attraction on the Outer Banks, drawing anglers with its 1,000-foot-long pier or visitors who simply want to walk out and watch surfers riding the waves, passing boats, sea turtles and dolphins swimming, pelicans flying overhead and much more. From world-class fishing to educational programs and fun summer camps and programs, Jennette's offers something for everyone. The space...read more
Jennette's Pier in Nags Head is a star attraction on the Outer Banks, drawing anglers...read more
Oregon Inlet Fishing Center
8770 Oregon Inlet Road, off N.C. Highway 12, Nags Head
It's all about making fishing memories at this legendary Outer Banks marina. A fleet of 48 boats offers a variety of fishing excursions at Oregon Inlet Fishing Center year round (weather permitting). Nearshore, inshore vessels offer half-day or full-day trips, while the headboat offers a choice of morning or afternoon inlet/sound fishing. Offshore vessels travel to the Gulf Stream, where anglers enjoy a full day on the water. Make-up charters are available if you don't have a full party. Anglers go for a variety of species, depending on the season, including billfish, tuna, mahi mahi, wahoo, Spanish mackerel, flounder, drum, bluefish, cobia and more. Anglers aboard charters do not need to purchase fishing licenses, and all tackle and bait are provided. The newest boat at Oregon Inlet Fishing Center is The Safari, a dolphin watching inlet/sound tour offering cruises daily! Even if you're not fishing or going out on the water, watching the boats come in with their catches is fine entertainment. Come to the docks between 3 and 5 p.m. and you'll see the day's catches being unloaded. Be sure to check out the world-record blue marlin replica mount (caught in 1974) displayed in an outdoor case, and take a photo of your group in front of a record-setting 805-pound bluefin tuna replica mount caught in 2011.
You can fuel up your boat here and also purchase food and drinks for your trip at the recently renovated and freshly updated on-site marina store, which carries a wide selection of fishing and boating gear, hardware, sunglasses, apparel and footwear, souvenirs and camping supplies. Check out their online store too. An air pump for inflating your tires, a public boat ramp (courtesy of National Park Service), clean restrooms and ample parking are also available. The boat ramp offers five launching lanes, courtesy docks and about 75 parking spaces for vehicles with trailers. You'll find it 8 miles south of Whalebone Junction in Nags Head.
It's all about making fishing memories at this legendary Outer Banks marina. A fleet of 48 boats offers a variety of fishing excursions at Oregon Inlet Fishing Center year round (weather permitting). Nearshore, inshore vessels offer half-day or full-day trips, while the headboat offers a choice of morning or afternoon inlet/sound fishing. Offshore vessels travel to the Gulf Stream, where anglers enjoy a full day on...read more
It's all about making fishing memories at this legendary Outer Banks marina. A fleet of...read more
Bodie Island Lighthouse
Pronounced "body," this horizontally striped lighthouse is on the soundside at the southern end of Bodie Island in Cape Hatteras National Seashore. It re-opened from a major renovation project in April 2013, and visitors can climb to the top of the 156-foot-tall lighthouse from the third Friday in April through Columbus Day in October. Bodie Island Lighthouse was first completed in 1872 and has an...read more
Cape Hatteras National Seashore
The first national seashore in the country, Cape Hatteras National Seashore stretches more than 70 miles along parts of three islands: Bodie Island (just south of Nags Head), Hatteras Island and Ocracoke Island. It is a place for recreation, immersion in nature and inspiration for humans as well as a safe haven for a variety of wildlife. The beautiful barrier island environment is a place...read more
Dowdy Park
The 5-acre Dowdy Park is a popular place for relaxation, play and entertainment. The park includes an amphitheater, green space, restrooms, a fitness trail, basketball and pickleball courts, a bocce area and an unusual playscape/playground for kids, and it's the site of local events, festivals and live music. You'll find it on the Bypass in Nags Head, next to Nags Head Elementary School on the...read more
First Flight Adventure Park
If you or your family are looking for a new aerial adventure, this is it. First Flight Adventure Park is a multi-level, self-guided ropes course for all ages and skill levels. The aerial park is designed for ages 6 and older and thrill seekers of varying abilities. With 48 elements ranging from 12 to 50 feet above the ground, the course is designed to test...read more
Jockey's Ridge State Park
Nags Head is home to the tallest natural sand dune on the East Coast. Jockey's Ridge, a series of five dunes, is a natural wonder that's continually changing in shape and height. With the highest hill varying from 70 to 100 feet tall, this system of sand is a haven for adventure. Colorful kites waver over its majesty regularly, and hang gliders climb to its...read more
Nags Head Woods Preserve
Kill Devil Hills Attractions
A beautiful place for hiking, trail running and birding, Nags Head Woods Ecological Preserve is one of the best remaining examples of a mid-Atlantic maritime forest. The 8 miles of hiking trails in the 1,200-acre preserve are open and free to the public every day from dawn until dusk. There are lushly wooded dunes, peaceful ponds, brackish marsh and an upland maritime forest complete with live...read more
USS Huron Shipwreck
Designated in 1991 as North Carolina's first Historic Shipwreck Preserve, the USS Huron lies 250 yards from the beach. During the summer, buoys may mark her bow and stern. A myriad of sea life and remaining portions of the wreck, including boilers, propeller, rudder and cannonball storage racks, make this an interesting destination for divers and snorkelers. Erosion has taken its toll and marine growth covers the...read more
Whalebone Welcome Center
Whalebone Welcome Center is at the northern entrance to the Cape Hatteras National Seashore in Nags Head. There you will find information on all there is to see and do on the Outer Banks, with plenty of local publications and pamphlets to take with you. It is an excellent stop for planning your vacation activities, particularly as you head toward the southern villages. The center...read more
Weekly Beach Report
The Outer Banks This Week Beach Report is brought to you by:
sidebar_second_953_1
sidebar_second_68_1
sidebar_second_68_10
Featured Coupon
$6 Off a Retail Purchase of $40 or More
More Details!
View All Coupons
Outer Banks Giveaways
There are no active giveaways at this time. Please check back later.
© 2021 Outer Banks This Week All rights reserved. | Privacy Policy
Outer Banks This Week and OneBoat (Destination Commerce Corporation) is not responsible for the content provided by third parties.
Create or Claim your Page | Submit Your Content
Advertiser Terms and Conditions


text:
HomeDaniel Davis – Bruce Jenner's Transformation Is A Lose-Lose For Liberal Ideology
Daniel Davis – Bruce Jenner's Transformation Is A Lose-Lose For Liberal Ideology
January 24, 2017 March 10, 2017 Daniel Adeniji Christian, Culture, Juanita Bynum, Life, Relationship, Sexuality, Spiritual
Admittedly I have listened in on Juanita Bynum's take on Eddie Long's untimely transition a few times.
And, I summarized her comforting words here.
A short, less than 10 minutes, segment that talks of the Work of the Holy Spirit is here.
She mentioned a name Daniel Lamont, I think it was.
As I am not familiar with that name, googled it, but did not find correlative matches.
Daniel Davis
But, found an interesting article by my Tocayo, Daniel Davis.
I think listening into his thinking will help yours.
Bruce Jenner's Vanity Fair coming-out party reaffirms traditional gender norms, even as he attempts to flee from them.
By Daniel Davis
Judging from the new cover of Vanity Fair, it appears that Bruce Jenner's highly publicized transformation to purported womanhood has finally reached its climax. The title reads, "Call me Caitlyn." The actual meaning? "Call me woman."
As we've seen in recent months, the transgender movement sees itself as the next civil-rights frontier. It clearly hopes to copy the LGBT movement in winning public approval by securing more and more media exposure. But as the movement makes its public appeal, some internal contradictions in liberal sexual ideology are quickly emerging. One major contradiction looms large for the transgender movement, and it deserves attention.
For years, a major aim of the sexual revolution has been to deconstruct gender differences as being "social constructs," mere cultural projections of what maleness and femaleness are and mean. This critique evacuated gender of any physical meaning and reduced it to an existential feeling—a feeling of being male or female, regardless of one's sexual biology.
The effect of this critique has been to relativize gender, and thus to abolish it as a meaningful category. Because you can no longer tie "femaleness" to a normative set of traits or acts (for example, wearing dresses or marrying men), the category itself cannot help but lose its meaning. To call any particular act a "male" or "female" act would be to revert back to antiquated, repressive, patriarchal norms—norms that only serve to foster social inequality.
This is the ideology that governs liberal sexual philosophy, and it collides head-on with major aspects of the transgender movement. Transgenderism is unavoidably based on a kind of gender essentialism. It recognizes gender identities as being associated with certain socially accepted norms. What does it mean, for example, that Jenner's "gender" is female? It means that he gets a sex change. It means that he poses in traditionally female attire for the cover of Vanity Fair. It means that he reaffirms traditional gender norms, even as he attempts to flee from them.
So Now Femininity Has Meaning?
In fact, he cannot help but reaffirm them, for they are the only tangible way of expressing gender. Inner feelings must inevitably take on flesh, and gender—understood as a mere feeling—must inevitably express itself in material form.
This is a problem for the broader liberal sexual movement. It wants to celebrate transgenderism, but it cannot do so without referring to—and thus, at least tacitly affirming—gender norms. To celebrate Jenner's femininity is actually to commit a liberal heresy: to revert back to a form of gender essentialism.
There's a flip side to this coin. As we noted, liberal sexual philosophy strips the term "gender" of all normative meaning. It reduces gender to a cultural phenomenon. In doing this, it robs transgenderism of its key claims to gender authenticity, and therefore of its right to moral affirmation. Consider it this way: If gender has no real connection to biology and certain social traits, then someone's claim to a gender identity is virtually meaningless. And if it is meaningless, how can we be morally obliged to recognize it—let alone even understand it?
Marc Lamont Hill of the Huffington Post caught on to at least part of this problem on Twitter recently. After making clear that he supports for Jenner's new gender identity, he wrote:
Between the Vanity Fair spread and "she's so pretty" convos, we've smuggled in the same old cis/Eurocentric narratives about womanhood.
If we only celebrate and welcome Caitlyn Jenner bc she conforms to tradition cis/and European standards of beauty, we are making a mistake.
Hill understands that affirming someone's gender identity involves affirming some cultural instantiation of that gender identity. As a post-colonial liberal, he wants to tear down those standards because, in his view, they perpetuate social injustice and gender inequality. Hill wants to affirm people's gender identity in the abstract, but refrain from affirming the particular instantiation of that identity.
Unfortunately for Hill, the transgender community is seeking an embodied affirmation, one that sees gender identities as rightly fitting with a certain biology, a certain set of clothes—a lived femininity. Caitlyn Jenner doesn't want to be affirmed in the abstract. He wants America to affirm his gender identity in terms of a lived femininity, and that means affirming his sex change and clothes as feminine. Those cultural norms are exactly the kind of "repressive" gender norms that Hill and other progressives want to abolish.
Hence, the liberal contradiction. If you truly celebrate Jenner's transition, you have to do it by recognizing some cultural narrative about womanhood, thereby perpetuating gender "inequality." But if you're committed to the abolition of gender norms, there's no way you can affirm Jenner's femininity, except in the meaningless abstract. It's a lose-lose.
What Is Gender, Anyway?
The root problem that led to this contradiction was the divorcing of gender from sexual biology and social traits. Having critiqued gender norms as being social constructs (and oppressive ones at that), gender has now become a free-floating abstraction that is wholly disconnected from material norms.
For gender to actually mean anything, it must instantiated in particular ways of being—a particular biology, particular clothes, and a particular way of relating to the opposite sex.
Even if these ways of being were all socially constructed, they would be essential to any meaningful understanding of gender. When gender is unhinged from biological sex and from generic social traits, it is an empty term, devoid of content and meaning.
The transformation of Bruce Jenner into Caitlyn Jenner only proves this reality. For Bruce to actualize his "true gender"—his femininity—he had to get a sex change and dress up as a woman. His "gender" had obvious implications for how he would live.
There's no getting around this connection between gender and sex, between gender and social traits. It testifies to the eternal fact that human beings are fundamentally soul and body. However much we might try to be gender Gnostics and suppress this objective connection between the body and the soul, we cannot achieve the separation. Just as the soul depends on the body, gender depends on biology. If we wish to speak of gender, we must speak of the body—and that's not going to change.
Daniel Davis is editor at Ecclesiam.org, a Christian journal dedicated to contemporary cultural issues.
The Privilege of Conviction
Conviction of sin is one of the rarest things that ever strikes a man. It is the threshold of an understanding of God. Jesus Christ said that when the Holy Spirit came He would convict of sin, and when the Holy Spirit rouses the conscience and brings him into the presence of God, it is not his relationship with men that bothers him, but his relationship with God.
The greatest miracle that God can do today is to take an unholy man out of an unholy world, and make that man holy and put him back into that unholy world and keep him holy in it.
The early church was married to poverty, prisons and persecutions. Today, the church is married to prosperity, personality, and popularity.
The Church used to be a lifeboat rescuing the perishing. Now she is a cruise ship recruiting the promising.
How we live
One of these days some simple soul will pick up the Book of God, read it, and believe it. Then the rest of us will be embarrassed.
Why is there this criminal indifference to the lostness of men? Our condemnation is that we know how to live better than we are living
Lewis 1949 Revival Testimony by Mary Peckham
Conviction of sin in a season of revival is too terrible for words
The Spirit of God witnessed with my Spirit and I knew I was saved
ecclesiam.org
Other good write-ups from ecclesiam.org
Josh Holler
Josh Holler is a graduate of Wheaton College with a B.A. in International Relations and a current student at Covenant Theological Seminary
Children as Vessels of Sanctification
Matthew Arildsen
Matthew Arildsen is pursuing an MDiv at Princeton Theological Seminary and is the associate editor for Ecclesiam
Voting Advice for Christians
← SQL Server – Determining Size of Your Procedure Cache
SQL Server – Reporting Services – Invoking from .Net Application – Permission Errors →


text:
There is only one place to start this story. On my Weather Channel app, where predictions of the damage Hurricane Florence might unleash upon the Carolinas, Virginia and beyond is enough to give anyone pause.
For the thousands of New Jerseyans and New Yorkers directly affected by Hurricane Sandy, it likely conjures memories still raw and painful.
More:The Farmhouse to reopen as Denim American Bistro in Cherry Hill
More:Old car parts mean new job opportunities for Camden
More:NJ police officer nets Award of Valor from National Liberty Museum
The aftermath of that 2012 hurricane, which left in its wake nearly $70 million in damage and claimed at least 285 lives, as well as causing lengthy power outages and gasoline shortages, is the inspiration for "By the Water.'' The play by Sharyn Rothstein on stage through Sept. 23 at the South Camden Waterfront Theatre.
"By the Water'' takes place three months after Sandy's wrath pummeled the Northeast, leaving behind the storm-ravaged, Staten Island home of Marty and Mary Murphy,
Rothstein's play is part of a season by South Camden Theatre Company dedicated to the works of women playwrights at the theater. That season concludes Nov. 2-18 with Lynn Nottage's "Crumbs from the Table of Joy.''
"By the Water'' is an exploration not just of the losses endured by one family, but of an devastated community. The play is presented by Artistic Director Ray Croce Sr., and is under the direction of Scott R. Grumling, who helmed last season's "The Miss Firecracker Contest'' at the theater. Grumling previously performed in "That Championship Season'' and directed a production during a "Shadows of War'' one-act festival.
Grumling, who lives in Northeast Philly, says he instantly fell in love with "By the Water,'' which was produced off-Broadway in 2014. "I picked up a script of it and read it from beginning to end straight through,'' he recalled. "I knew it was something I wanted to direct eventually.''
As artistic director, Croce had asked directors to submit proposals for plays they were passionate about, and Grumling didn't hesitate to advocate for "By the Water.''
"The material is perfectly suited for the types of shows they like to produce in South Camden, and it was a really good fit for the theater.''
Croce and Robert Bingaman, the theater's board president, also loved the play, and saw it as a good fit for an audience that was unlikely to forget Sandy's wrath anytime soon.
"I read a lot of plays but it takes me forever,'' confided Croce. "This play wasn't like that. I absolutely could not put it down. I read it in one sitting. I read it a second time in one sitting. I said, 'I have to do this and I have to have Scott do it. He really championed it. It's an absolutely wonderful piece. Scott's enthusiasm for it has carried over to his cast, and they are totally invested in it.''
For Grumling, it was a joy to see a work he was so moved by come to life onstage.
"I am exquisitely grateful they chose it and so grateful to work with them on it,'' Grumling said just before the show's first preview before an audience of Princeton University students last week. "(The playwright) says she writes with a sense of social responsibility and to depict the lives of real people. And she likes to do plays with a lot of heart.''
The seven-member cast centers around the Murphys, a couple whose home and those around them are damaged or destroyed by the storm. The play explores the undercurrents of tension within their marriage, within their family and within long-time friendships with neighbors, as neighbors die and secrets long buried come to the surface along with a lifetime of ruined possessions as the floodwaters recede.
"You can identify with each of the characters in the play. They could be people you know,'' Grumling said. "They are all fighting for their dignity and trying to remain resilient throughout the play. It says something about how strong and resilient people are in facing these natural disasters … and also when we are in conflict with those we love.
"The parents in the play are near retirement age,'' Grumling continues, "and they have had some version of the American Dream after a lifetime together, and when the storm comes along and takes that away from them, they have to figure out how they are going to move forward from that?''
Another theme explored in "By the Water'' is how imperfect we can be even in our good intentions, how we all make mistakes (in this case, a mistake made by Mr. Murphy that has put the family's financial future in great peril). It goes on to question how we work our way past those mistakes and learn from them.
When federal money becomes available to rebuild, this devastated neighborhood must decide if staying on the waterfront in an age of superstorms is the best plan.The tensions as neighbors must debate whether to relocate or rebuild their community – and the reality that Mr. Murphy's past actions may make leaving impossible -- drives the action of the play.
"They need 80 percent (or the homeowners) to agree to rebuild or nobody gets the money, and people have to fight for what's best for them,'' Grumling explained. "There is heartbreak in the idea of seeing an entire community eliminated.''
This theme struck a chord with Croce, who grew up in Philadelphia.
"For me, 'neighborhood' was a big thing. Again, it's the resiliency but also the coming together of neighbors. Things could go awry, but your neighbors were always there for you. One of my last memories of living in Philadelphia was when my father had passed, and all the neighbors rallied around my mother and help her rise out of it.''
Some of those neighbors get together to this day, he added, just to stay connected, just to talk. It is those connections, Croce said, that are so much harder to forge in the age of long commutes, frequent moves, divorce and insular pursuits like binge-watching.
"People just don't come outside anymore.'' he continued. "We've become so isolated from one another. I would like to see the neighbors lifting each other up more often.''
As multiple hurricanes wreaked havoc on the Caribbean, the Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico and Texas last year, the themes in this play seemed ever more urgent, he said. And with climate change comes the very real possibility that these super storms will become ever more commonplace.
"We have to navigate through those disasters and be as prepared for them as we can possibly be,'' Grumling said. "This is very relevant and very immediate in people's minds. There is a component of it that allows us to take a step back and reflect, what would I do?''
But if it's a serious play, it is certainly not a play without hope, the men agree.
"I don't think we give credit for how resilient our human spirit is and when we have to dig deep,'' Grumlin observed, "the ways people find the strength to go on.''
For his part, Croce agrees that it is the strength of the human spirit that remains with the audience as they leave the theater. "... the resilience of people, and how under extreme circumstances they still rise and move forward.
"I think the whole tragedy of the (Sandy) situation has been lost on the general population,'' Croce continued. "A lot of them never saw a dime of the federal funding. It didn't really help so many of the people who actually live there. I'm kind of hoping if people see the play, they will be reinvigorated by that and see that there are a lot things that still need to be done.''
Tammy Paolino: (856) 486-2477 or tpaolino@gannett.com
"By the Water'' runs through Sunday, Sept. 23 at South Camden Waterfront Theatre, 400 Jasper St., Camden. Visit http://www.southcamdentheatre.org/ or call 1 (866) 811-4111
Susan Dewey: Mary Murphy
Russ Walsh: Marty Murphy
Alfie Mannino: Sal Murphy
Danny Donnelly: Brian Murphy
Elizabeth Terry: Andrea Carter
Michael Tamin Yurcaba: Phillip Carter
Aimee Theresa: Emily Mancini
10 reasons pets are good for your health
South Jersey fruit lovers fall hard for açaí bowls
Brunch at The Pour House is family-friendly, with a little hair of the dog


text:
Energy at the End of the World: An Orkney Islands Saga
The Scottish Clearances: A History of the Dispossessed, 1600-1900
Working Verse in Victorian Scotland: Poetry, Press, Community
by Kirstie Blair
Published by Oxford University Press
Judges' Comments:
'This book presents the conclusions of a detailed study of poetry which was written and read widely in Victorian Scotland but which has been largely ignored by literary scholars. It focusses on working class poetry which was published in the popular press – looking at over 30 widely circulated local newspapers from across Scotland – and assesses its impact on politics and culture. In doing so, it enhances our understanding of the scope and role of Scottish literature during this period. It also underlines the importance of newspapers as a source of information about the cultural changes that took place in Victorian Scotland as a result of industrialisation, and explores the new ways of reading newspapers made possible by digitisation.'
From Jacqueline Norton, Senior Commissioning Editor at OUP:
'I am delighted to see that Professor Kirstie Blair's book Working Verse in Victorian Scotland: Poetry, Press, Community has been shortlisted for this prestigious award. The study draws on extensive archival research and reveals a new story of Scottish literature in this period, as well as extending our understanding of the role of popular verse in national and international cultures.'
Kirstie Blair:
'I'm delighted to be nominated for this award. It was such a pleasure to research this book and find so many fascinating and often unknown Scottish writers.'


Ask a question about 1413 Cedar Bay Ln, or schedule a tour.
BETTER THEN EVER!!!This home is getting a new tile roof by May 2019. The Cloisters one of the most desired locations in The Landings A GATED COMMUNITY. Custom home with 4 bedroom/2/2 baths. Two bedroom guest house and 1 bath located s... more.eparately on the next to pool & privacy for your guests. Enter to a elegant foyer to an open great room with soaring 12 ft ceilings with wide crown molding on ceiling/ wood floors and you have solid wood oak flooring. The great room which is light and bright with a fireplace, spacious dining area and french doors open to the outside tropical landscape entertainment pool area. Double solid wood pocket doors may close off your kitchen. Top of the line stainless appliances/solid wood cabinetry, granite counter tops and pull-out shelves and a walk-in pantry. A gallery hallway features a den/office with his and hers built-in desks and exit through french doors so you can enjoy a 36 ft caged saltwater pool with new pool heater. The Master suite is bright and spacious and opens to the screened lanai. A small den or office is attached to master for exercise room or sitting area. Newer master bath features marble and dual sinks, a walk in shower and freestanding bath. $75,000 in painting of interior of home, new window and interior of garage and floor painted, new roof 2019,,new pool pump & new screening where needed on caged pool lanai. Generator for entire home 2012. Join Racket Club with 8 hard tru tennis courts, pool, library, fitness center only $1485 YR not mandatory.


Setting up to observe from Cemetery Point.
Bar-tailed Godwits viewed through a telescope from Lake Vue Parade, Midway Point.
Caterpillar, at Lake Vue Parade, Midway Point.
A wolf spider at Lake Vue Parade, Midway Point.
An egg sack of a Bird Dung Spider, Celaenia kingergi, in a tree at the Sorell picnic tables by the river.
The spider feeds on moths, which it attracts to its outstretched arms by emitting pheromones similar to those of female moths.
At lunch-time, Robyn, who is an official animal carer, had to feed one of her charges, a baby Brushtail Possum.
A mass stranding of of winter scarab beetles (Adoryphorus couloni) at Bonnington, Barilla Bay. It is one of many species included under the common name of cockchafer.
These appeared to have been washed ashore by the wind and tide, and were trying to dig themselves into the moist sand on the high tide line.
Bird watching at Orielton Lagoon.


In 1975, John G. Blank purchased a vacant library building to provide a home for Michigan City's new Center for the Arts. In 1978, this building officially became the John G. Blank Art Center, which was incorporated as a not-for-profit organization.
In 2002, Jack and Shirley Lubeznik donated an office building at 101 W. 2nd Street. The center was then renamed as the Jack & Shirley Lubeznik Center for the Arts (LCA). Over time, extensive renovations were completed to create a welcoming, modern facility featuring two classrooms, three world class gallery spaces, a reception area and a gallery shop.
Today, LCA serves as a vibrant showcase for exhibitions and a vital hub for the community. We feature three major exhibitions per year with corresponding educational programming, as well as a wide variety of classes for children and adults. Approximately 1,800 children annually enjoy educational tours and onsite artmaking at LCA, while many more receive visual, literacy-based and performance art instruction through the outreach programs we offer in collaboration with area after school programs.


text:
Chinese Communists Spending Millions on Ads in U.S. Newspapers
(OAN Newsroom) The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) is spending millions on ad space to spread pro-China messages across the United States. The U.S. Department of Justice reported that in just the last four years, Beijing has spent nearly $19 million in an attempt to push pro-China narratives within the country.
The payments have been on behalf of Beijing-controlled China Daily newspaper, which is an English language publication produced by the CCP that has paid millions of dollars just this year.
Here's a sample of the propaganda that @WSJ pushed for China Daily this year. (a link to WSJ's China Daily propaganda content here: https://t.co/N8hcWJTGYm) pic.twitter.com/0k6HRwY7XS
— Chuck Ross (@ChuckRossDC) November 23, 2020
Publications like the Wall Street Journal, New York Times and Los Angeles Times have received these payments for running pro-China ads on their websites and printed publication.
The paid advertisements are designed to look like real news articles, while often containing a pro-Beijing twist on contemporary news events.
China Daily is controlled by the Communist Party's state propaganda agency. For years it has paid newspapers and magazines in the U.S. to publish communist-curated information.
Previous articleConfidence Erodes in U.S. Institutions… Is the Dollar Next?
Next articleEmployers Start Sending Workers Shopping for Health Coverage


A new and joy-filled season in parenting is when one gets to car shop with and for his or her teenagers. After all, their unrealistic expectations are rooted in youthful optimism. Any sense of the actual cost to operate a vehicle flies higher than a bald eagle on a warm updraft. Who wants to worry at the very moment of selecting their image-maker-dream-come-true vehicle about such mundane things as maintenance, oil changes, tires, insurance, yearly license and registration fees? Well, the parent, for one. Therefore, one of the duties of parenting is to gently but firmly bring them down to the reality of terra firma.
just above the poverty line with no benefits – she knew the reality of getting any vehicle at all was slim. So, she was overjoyed to have one to call her own. It had been well-maintained and, while it did not rank high on the coolness factor, was her own transportation. She had a certain amount of freedom that she would not have had sharing our family vehicle. I was happy for her.
Unfortunately, the day came when the old Dodge Shadow 'gave up the ghost.' Its death could not be avoided. Whether due to the mileage or the harsh North Dakota winters, it stopped running and became a driveway ornament. This launched us on a mission to find another vehicle for her. She had a job and school. Coordinating those activities with her mother's needs and my own was going to prove a nightmare.
One day, while her oldest brother, Gareth, who was on military leave from Afghanistan, and I noticed a baby-blue 1971 Cadillac Coupe de Ville with a "For Sale" sign on it. It was parked by the Firestone store on George Washington Way in Grand Forks. You couldn't miss it. The seller wanted $1,000 for it. It looked in good condition. It had more chrome on it than 100 of today's vehicles put together. The bumpers could have been used to weigh ship anchor for the U.S.S. Enterprise. It was, truly, a thing of beauty. Gareth and I kidded one another about buying Cara THAT car.
Now, before you judge my daughter or my family of being to proud to drive around a 1971 vintage anything, there were some practical reasons for not considering it seriously. First, the gas mileage would make operating it prohibitive. The plus side would have been that she could never get very far with it. But we could not really consider something that would take a budget slightly larger than the Lithuanian's annual GDP to operate each month.
Second, my daughter is 5'6″ and 115 lbs. It would have taken three or four Grand Forks phone books just to get her to be able to see and drive. We did not have that many phone books. The plus side was that she would have been surrounded by more heavy duty metal than our troops go into battle with today in their Humvees. They just do not make cars like that anymore. The number one cause for auto body repair in North Dakota is hitting deer crossing highways. The bumpers on that vehicle would deflect a small buffalo.
Anyway, Gareth and I had a good chuckle talking about and picturing Cara behind the wheel that 1971 Cadillac Coupe de Ville. The reality of it was that the car deserved to be owned by someone who would appreciate the cars vintage, make, and model. It would not have gotten the respect in our family that it surely deserved.
Nevertheless, I could not help myself one day when Cara and I were driving up George Washington Way and saw the car parked alongside the road. I saw a moment for some fun.
"Hey, what do you think about that car?" I said pointing out the baby-blue Cadillac.
"What? That big one? It's kinda' cute. I like the color," replied Cara kindly but a little guarded.
"You're brother and I are thinking about getting you that. What do you think?" I said, pushing the idea a little more.
My sweet daughter. She's thinking real practical. Fear will do that to you. But I could not just let this go. So, I fibbed a bit to draw out the drama of the moment.
Of course, these were all good points. But, at this point, I am having too much fun and I am having trouble not smiling or breaking out into laughter.
By now, I could tell Cara was conflicted. She needed a car. She appreciated the idea of her brother buying her a car. But just not THAT car.
By this times the giggles and guffaws had over taken me and now I was in tears from laughing so hard. I am sure that other drivers on George Washington Way must have been wondering what was going on in our car.
I wiped the tears from my eyes and continued chuckling to myself. What a priceless father-daughter moment. At least to my way of thinking. She probably claims to be scarred for life from it. I, however, will cherish it.
Still to this day, whenever I see a 1970's vintage, lots of chrome, big-bumpered car, I think back to that moment. Like this last summer when I visited the Cool Desert Nights Car Show in Richland, Washington. There were so many beautiful old cars. But the ones that made me pause the most were the 1970's vintage Cadillacs. There I stood smiling from ear-to-ear with a tear in my eye. Some experiences are just worth living again and again.
Ron, I loved your story. I love old cars, and I really love being Dad to three young ladies.
My oldest left for Valley Forge Christian College 4 weeks ago, so I'm really a sucker for Father-Daughter moments.
Thanks for stopping by and reading, Harvey! I'm a real sucker for father-daughter moments too. My girls have me wrapped around their fingers. The problem is that they know it. Cara – the one I wrote about – is in Grand Forks, ND. and it's really hard being so far away from her. So, I know the pain a father goes through when his daughter(s) is so far away. Thanks for the encouragement.
Great article …Thanks for your great information.I will be waiting for your next post.