Having come from a brewing family and been taught the importance of providing a good pint I converted the cellar into a traditional temperature controlled room where we pull your pint directly from the barrel giving you the freshest real ale money can buy.
We have two permanent traditional Essex bitters on: Bishop Nick Ridley's Rite (3.6%) and Crouch Vale Essex Boys Best (3.7%), one dark real ale, one golden real ale, and one other guest real ale, often something unusual or strong.
Bishop Nick, brewed by my brother Nelion, continues the tradition of brewing in the Ridley family. It is currently brewed in Braintree and Nelion has won numerous awards including coming second overall at the Great British Beer Festival 2017 for Ridley's Rite.
As well as offering real ale we also have a selection of real ciders on the go with up to 7 traditional ciders, fruit ciders and perries at any one time.
On draught, we're proud to offer Carlsberg, Hogan's Cider from Alcester in Warwickshire, Bitburger Premium Lager from Bitburg in Germany and of course Guinness, from Dublin in Ireland. We also have 2 rotating craft beers on tap, allowing us to offer very unusual and exotic beers.
We have an eclectic selection of wine by the glass from all over the world with a choice of 3 reds (Merlot, Rioja & Pinot Noir), 3 whites (Grenache Blanc, Verdicchio & Sauvignon Blanc) and 2 pinks (Pinot Grigio Blush & Zinfandel).
There is a wide selection of premium gins from around the country and six single malt whiskies from Scotland.


Global games developer company, Animoca Brands has welcomed former Sony PlayStation managing director, Michael Ephraim as head of partnerships for Australia and New Zealand.
Ephraim was with Sony for over 22 years and during his tenure, he restructured the Australian division to drive the growth of digital games and video distribution. He devised strategy and position the Sony PlayStation as a total digital home entertainment solution by incorporating local services such as Stan, Foxtel Play, ABC iView, and SBS Ondemand, among others.
He developed strong media relationships and successful major sponsorship agreements with various brands and organisations including the National Rugby League (NRL), the Australian Football League (AFL), the Football Federation Australia (FFA) and Perisher Valley Ski Resort.
Commenting on his appointment, Ephraim said, "I am very excited to be joining such a dynamic and innovative organisation at the forefront of blockchain and mobile gaming, AI, machine learning and the digital media space.


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Sangguniang Panlalawigan
More funds to help typhoon victims are coming, says Occidental Mindoro Vice Gov. Peter Alfaro
Jan 2, 2020 2,001	0 0
As Occidental Mindoro struggles from the effects of typhoon Tisoy and Ursula, Vice Gov. Peter Alfaro shared some good news heading into the new year.
Occidental Mindoro VG Alfaro welcomes Special Education students from Sta. Cruz
Dec 21, 2019 406	0 0
The students under the Special Education in Sta. Cruz town have paid a courtesy visit to the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Occidental Mindoro.
Albay SP supports localization of Magna Carta for Women, says VG Lagman
Albay Vice Governor Edcel Grex Lagman said that the Sangguniang Panlalawigan backs the symposium on the localization of the Magna Carta for Women or the RA 9710 in the province.
Palawan SP urges Gov. Alvarez to ban importation of meat products amid threat of African Swine Fever
Oct 25, 2019 688	0 0
The Palawan Sangguniang Panlalawigan has urged Governor Jose Ch. Alvarez to ban the importation of processed meat in the province amid the threat of African Swine Fever.
Oriental Mindoro scolded over calendars featuring local execs
Oct 6, 2019 428	0 0
The Commission on Audit (COA) asked officials of the provincial government of Oriental Mindoro to refund the "unnecessary" costs of printing calendars bearing the photos of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan.
NFA-Occidental Mindoro official faces Sangguniang Panlalawigan members
Sep 7, 2019 2,561	0 0
An official of National Food Authority-Occidental Mindoro has shed light on the true state of the agency before the Sangguniang Panlalawigan.
Oriental Mindoro's P1.35 billion supplemental fund secures SP's approval
Aug 31, 2019 200	0 0
The Oriental Mindoro Sangguniang Panlalawigan has approved the Supplemental Investment Program (SIP) NO. 2-2019 of the provincial government.
Palawan SP urges LGUs to step up campaign against dengue
Jul 27, 2019 1,185	0 0
The Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Palawan has urged the local government units (LGUs) in the province to step up their campaign against dengue.
Albay Vice Gov. Grex Lagman seeks justice for slain SK chair
Jul 24, 2019 726	0 0
It is always a tragedy when an official is killed, especially one so young.
New IP rep to SP takes oath of office before Occidental Mindoro Gov. Gadiano
Occidental Mindoro Governor Eduardo Gadiano has formally sworn in to office the new Indegenous People's Mandatory Representative to the Sangguniang Panlalawigan.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


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Top 10 Regions in Norway: Where To Go & What To See
Whether your ideal vacation consists of hiking, surfing, or even dogsledding, Norway has you covered. From Svalbard to Stavanger, this country's unique regional offerings are endless. Start planning your journey with this detailed round-up of the best regions in Norway.
Norway is the longest country in Europe - and with over 60,000 miles of coastline and endless countryside to explore, it should come as no surprise that this Scandinavian nation offers an abundance of places, attractions, and activities to enjoy. The towering mountains, dramatic fjords, arctic tundra, and historic towns draw travelers from around the world. From the reindeer of Finnmark to metropolitan Oslo, you'll find that each of the country's many regions has unique features that make them all worth a visit. Read on to learn more about Norway's top ten regions, listed in no particular order.
The capital and cultural hub of the country, Oslo is a must-see on any Norwegian itinerary. Most visitors are shocked to find how small and walkable the city is, but that's not to say there isn't plenty to do. The standout attractions include the Viking Ship Museum, which houses the world's best-preserved Viking ship, as well as the National Gallery, where Edvard Munch's expressionist masterpiece "The Scream" still hangs. Families will want to visit the Oslo Reptilpark (Reptile Park), an homage to all things small and scaly, and a favorite with kids.
If you happen to have pleasant weather, then a stop at the Vigeland Sculpture Park is well worth the time. The gardens here are peaceful and lush, making it as much a local picnic spot as an art fixture. For those a bit more daring, the Holmenkollen Ski Jump now lets visitors experience the full effect of ski jumping by ziplining nearly 1200 feet from top to bottom.
2. Bergen and the Sognefjord
Bergen wharf
Appropriately dubbed the gateway to the fjords, Bergen is arguably Norway's most historically significant city. Back in its founding days, it served as an immensely important German trading port and, despite having burned down several times, the wharf maintains a distinctly German feel. Guests can literally taste history in the form of salted dried cod with a visit to the Hanseatic Museum or take in the breathtaking views during the cable car ride to the top of Mount Floyen.
Just outside the city, though, lies the impressive Sognefjord. Norway's deepest and longest fjord, pictures don't even come close to capturing the beauty that the crystal clear waters, striking cliffs, and varied sea life come together to create. Do not leave without taking at least a brief boat ride, as nothing compares to seeing this area from the water.
3. Alesund and the Geirangerfjord
View of Alesund from the Fjellstua viewpoint
Anyone with an interest in art or architecture will find Alesund completely mesmerizing. Though not always a common stop on your standard itinerary, this quaint city is rapidly gaining notoriety as the perfect meeting of Norwegian culture and nature. Famous for its stunning art nouveau architecture, the colorful and distinct buildings line the easily walkable downtown.
If you want the most picturesque view though, be sure to head to Fjellstua. The 418 steps are absolutely worth it! Perhaps even more appealing to visitors is the fact that Alesund is a short jaunt (two hours or so) from Norway's most iconic fjord, the Geirangerfjord. Now a UNESCO World Heritage site, the fjord is dotted with wondrous waterfalls and historic mountain farms. And whether you bike, kayak, or simply hike through the area, it never fails to impress.
4. Finnmark (North Cape, Alta, Kirkenes)
Reindeer near Tromsø area
Located in the most northerly part of Norway, the Finnmark region (as well as the northern portions of Finland and Sweden) is home to the indigenous Sami people. And while centuries ago, few ventured to this remote area — which depended almost exclusively on reindeer and fish — nowadays visitors can experience the way of life in a more modern way. Cozy lodges not only offer traditional Lappish food but give visitors the chance to experience dogsledding excursions, reindeer safaris, or traditional ice fishing.
Of course, anywhere up here will have the midnight sun in the summer months (and the famous "blue season" from November to January). While here, fish for king crabs in Kirkenes, near the Russian border. Stay at a hotel made completely of ice in Alta. Visit the small town of Hamningberg, an old fishing village that escaped ruin in WWII. Hike to the natural arch of Kirkeporten, looking over the watery plateau of the North Cape, the northernmost point of Europe. Or just take in the sunset over the Barents Sea — here, you're free to take it slow.
5. Svalbard
Polar bear near Splitsbergen
Considering its far more northerly location, Svalbard is often either overlooked or just not possible to include on most trips. Only accessible by boat from May through September due to sea ice conditions (though traveling via plane is still a very viable option), the voyage is well worth the effort: it's one of the few places on Earth where you can still see polar bears in the wild. As many as 3,000 bears still live in this arctic wilderness, along with a variety of other wildlife including whales, reindeer, and seals.
And if that's not reason enough to go, there are plenty of activities to entertain such as dog sledding, glacier treks, and snowmobile safaris. Not to mention you get 24 hours of sunlight during the summer — and the Northern Lights from September to March.
6. Tromsø and the Lyngenfjord
If you're hankering to see the Northern Lights and you've heard that they're fading in the coming years, make your way up to Northern Norway and Tromsø, the region's largest city. Here in the Arctic Circle, the auroras will be just as bright. With plenty of culture (don't miss the Northern Norway Art Museum), tons of restaurants offering "Arctic" cuisine, and bustling nightlife, Tromsø might just be the best of both worlds. Of course, there's plenty of outdoor activities in both seasons, too — think hiking and kayaking in summer (try them at night under the midnight sun), and dog sledding, spending a night in a Sami tent, chasing the auroras, or going on a whale safari in winter.
While you're taking it easy in the city, leave time to experience the Lyngenfjord and the Lyngsalpene mountain range. Glaciers, valleys, and narrow waterways will fill your gaze here, and crowds are few and far between. Tour the world's northernmost distillery, hike at 1 AM up to Engnes (on the northern tip of Skjervøy), or float along the waters on a dinner cruise, sampling some of the world's freshest seafood.
7. Lofoten Islands
Lofoten Islands Village
Of all the destinations within Norway, the Lofoten archipelago would have to be the most uniquely beautiful. Maybe this is due to the charming fishing village homes or the remote and untouched feel it maintains, but regardless, its accolades rightfully lure thousands of nature lovers north to these stunning islands each year.
Due to its location above the Arctic Circle, getting here is not always simple. Be prepared to fly, road trip, or take a boat to your final destination. Once you are there though, activities abound. Visitors can do everything from hiking, fishing, and skiing to ocean rafting, scuba diving, and even catching waves - this region is said to have the best surfing in the country. After an exciting day, one of the many small villages will be happy to host you in a cozy rorbu, a traditional fishing cabin located right on the water's edge.
8. Fjordkysten
Fishing village along the Norwegian coast
The Fjord Coast really spans the length of the country, but with capital letters, it largely refers to the area from Bergen north up to Alesund, where the intricate waterways and villages spill out into the North Sea. If you're after some of the most beautiful scenery the planet has to offer and a more authentic look at the country and its people — and you're not averse to a good splash — the Fjord Coast is probably your cup of tea.
Here it's all about the outdoors. Hike up the Hornelen, the highest sea cliff in all of Europe. Go a little lighter than expert level on one of the North Sea trails. Island hop from Solund, Norway's westernmost isle (be sure to check out the Utvær Lighthouse), until you hit the interior. Rent a boathouse and do nothing but watch the water. Search for Viking-age rock carvings in Vingen and Ausevika.
To get around, consider traveling via express boat from Bergen (Norled is the company to look for) if you're not renting a car. Otherwise, the region has a pretty extensive bus system, in addition to the coastal steamer Hurtigruten operating daily. Try to plant yourself in Kalvåg or Værlandet to get around the islands — plus, this way, you'll likely have those sea views from your window.
9. Stavanger and the Lysefjord
Lysefjord, Norway
Pulpit Rock and the Lysefjord? That's the Stavanger region. Hope you're not afraid of heights! Solastranden Beach is another outdoors hotspot, as is the Fjøløy Lighthouse and the gargantuan "Swords in Rock" on the Hafrsfjord. There's no doubt about it: The Stavanger region is beautiful.
But the city has tons of appeal, too. Stavanger (and the smaller, nearby Sandnes) were recently designated a European Capital of Culture — here you'll find massive food festivals, street art, state-of-the-art museums, and all kinds of restaurants, cafes, and boutiques. As you're wandering the fairly compact city, check out Old Stavanger — it's 170 white wooden houses, Europe's best-preserved wooden house settlement. Here you'll get all the sophistication of Oslo and the history of Bergen, while being a bit more off the beaten track.
10. "Top of Fjord Norway"
Besseggen trail, Jotunheimen National Park, Norway
We covered Fjord Norway from Bergen to Alesund — now let's talk about what's a bit further north. And before you think, "Colder temperatures? Pass!" know that this area is actually sunnier than Bergen and the surrounding region. So not only do you have enjoyable days, but you get the added bonus of lighter crowds, shorter lines, and experiences that your friends back home surely haven't had (and those same epic fjord views).
In Trondheim (Norway's third-largest city, though still fewer than 200,000 people), be sure to visit the Nidarosdomen cathedral, not quite 1000 years old. Go kayaking on the Nidelva river or pick a museum to while away an afternoon before taking a ride on the world's northernmost tram, Gråkallbanen. Then take your pick of the city's many amazing restaurants — good food is around every corner here.
Trollheimen, on the other hand, is exactly what it sounds like: land of the trolls. There are spectacular mountains and plenty of hiking trails for a good complement to any city adventure. Rent a hut, tour the waterpark, or stay in one of the many mountain lodges. However, for even higher mountains (Norway's highest, actually), head to Jotunheimen. Trek up the tallest peak, Galdhøpiggen, walk along the narrow Besseggen ridge, and leave time get familiar with the waterfalls, lakes, glaciers, and valleys of the national park with the same name.
Dovre-Sunndalsfjella National Park is up here as well. Caribou, musk ox, eagles, and falcons will steal your gaze from time to time, as will the fjord views (which you somehow won't be used to by now). This alpine ecosystem is generally untouched, and there's plenty of cozy mountain lodges in the area to get away from it all and to feel like a true local.
Written by Bridget Kapinus, updated Jul 1, 2019
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"Tatjana and I had a great time, specially in Geilo, where the snow, sun and skiing conditions were absolutely perfect. Heidi was a great guide and, further,..." read more
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Jah N.
"I contacted KimKim for a much needed solo trip away and I was thinking about Norway. Julia was my specialist and she was fantastic! Not only did she liste..." read more
Traveled to Norway solo in November, 2019
Kum C.
"My trip was planned by Fridur and after a lot of messages back and forth, the entire schedule was turned upside down or rather north south reversal and no re..." read more
Rituparna B.
"Our trip to Northern Norway and the Finnish town of Kilpisjarvi was a dream come true. Our tour guides, Gareth and Amanda from Adventure by Design were aweso..." read more
Traveled to Norway as a family in November, 2019
Julie F.
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Traveled to Norway as a couple in October, 2019
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Colorado, United States
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Robin W.
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Home > Blog > What Do You Learn in Business Administration?
Are you considering a career in business? If your answer is "yes," then you may find yourself researching Business Administration programs. But what exactly is Business Administration, and what will you learn in this program?
We've put together an overview of what you can expect to learn in a Business Administration program. Read on to discover the skills you can learn while studying Business Administration, and what careers those skills can lead to.
What business topics and skills will I learn?
Learn effective writing techniques used in business to produce various communications and documents, including business letters, minutes and reports; dictation and note-taking; proper grammar, mechanics, number usage, vocabulary and proofreading; and writing style, appearance, tone and reader appeal. Focus on developing time management, organization, presentation and communication skills.
Students get an introduction to the laws affecting businesses and their operations. Topics include concepts of business law, ethics related to law, business and society, contract, sales, torts and intellectual property.
Get an introduction to the theory and application of management concepts. Topics include leadership, planning and organization, social responsibility, delegation, leadership styles, decision making, time and stress management, and employee relations.
Learn computer concepts and productivity software, such as word processing, spreadsheet, presentations and email. Topics include basic computer operations, information literacy, security and privacy issues, and the use of various software applications in a professional setting.
Learn marketing activities, practices, and processes. Additional topics include business ethics, market segmentation, product, distribution, pricing decisions, consumer products, advertising, and consumer behavior.
Build fundamental skills in Microsoft Excel® for use as a business tool. Learn how to create and manage worksheets, apply formulas and functions, and create data visualizations.
Learn about customer perceptions, customer service strategy, verbal and non-verbal communication, and problem solving.
Learn an overview of the administration of human resources in business, emphasizing legal and regulatory requirements and ethical obligations. Topics include recruitment and hiring, training and evaluation, compensation and benefits, and labor relations.
Learn the fundamental principles and terminology of accounting. Subjects covered include Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), and the steps of the accounting cycle.
What careers can these business skills lead to?
Administrative Assistants: Administrative assistants handle everyday clerical and administrative duties, including organizing files, prepping documents, scheduling appointments, and supporting other staff. This position is needed in nearly every industry! Administrative assistants work in schools, hospitals as well as government, legal and medical offices, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
Customer Service Representatives: Customer service reps mainly work with customers by processing orders, handling complaints, and pitching a company's products and services to potential and return customers.
Information and Record Clerks: Information clerks usually work full-time and collect data, maintain records and provide information to customers, according to the BLS.
If it sounds like Business Administration is the right program for you, or if you would like to learn more about the career opportunities that are available after you graduate from a Business Administration program, contact San Joaquin Valley College. SJVC's Business Administration Certificate program provides a framework of business knowledge and skills that can help you adapt to any company's operation. You can graduate in as little as eight months with your Certificate. Request information or call toll-free 866-544-7898 to learn more.
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Ride through the rolling green hills of the Bavarian Lake District, from the vibrant streets of Munich to Salzburg, Mozart's home city. Touring through emerald forests and past glistening blue lakes, the cycling is mostly easy-going and, even when the Bavarian Alps rise around you towards the end of the tour, the terrain along the cycle path remains gentle.
Backed by modest mountains, Bavaria's beautiful lakes make great spots for a picnic, refreshing swim or a boat trip – the islands of Lake Chiemsee are worth visiting. As you cycle south-east towards Austria, you'll pass riverside villages and celebrated spa towns that were once important stations on Bavaria's trade routes. Cycling into the sparkling city of Salzburg makes an impressive end to this tour and relaxing in a street cafe with apple strudel is a delicious way to finish.
Make your way to Munich and stroll around the capital of Bavaria or relax in one of its beer gardens.
Join the Isar cycle path and ride through forests and typical towns en route to the ornate mansions of Bad Tölz, a town which sits at the crossroads of the River Isar and an old salt trading route.
Cycle over gently rolling hills through the scenic landscape of Lake Tegernsee. Take a break at Gmünd and enjoy a boat trip or swim in the lake. Continue along the Bodensee- Königssee cycle path to the beautiful shores of Lake Schliersee.
Tour along the lakeshore and on a more undulating route to the peaceful spa town of Bad Feilnbach, renowned for its mild climate and abundant fruit trees.
The cycle mileage today is dependent on the location of your overnight hotel.
Discover the largest peat mining area in Bavaria and the town of Neubeuern, where the local emblem of crossed ship hooks symbolises the area's historic shipbuilding industry. Cycle at the foot of the Chiemgau Mountains to Lake Chiemsee and relax on the lakeshore or take a boat to the islands of Herrenchiemsee and Frauenchiemsee.
Continue along gentle terrain as mountains rise up around you, cycling through the Bergener Moos wetlands at the foot of Mount Hochfelln. Tour alongside the Rote Traun River to the idyllic town of Inzell and see the famous Lüftlmalerei paintings on the town houses here.
Ride on narrow paths between the mountains, along the famous German Alpine Road and pedal alongside the River Saalach to reach the cathedral and spa park at Bad Reichenhall. Cycle across the border between Bavaria and Austria to reach the beautiful city of Salzburg.
Enjoy breakfast in Salzburg before checking out or extend your stay to appreciate this stunning city.
Take a train or bus from Munich airport to the centre.
Alternatively, fly from Munich. Take a train from Salzburg to Munich or book a transfer - please enquire.


text:
SOLO (1980) – BOOK REVIEW
SOLO (1980) – Written by Jack Higgins. Solo is not exactly one of my favorite espionage novels but it is definitely my favorite by Jack Higgins. It's the story of efforts to catch an international assassin code-named the Cretan Lover. Luckily that ludicrous codename is often shortened to just "The Cretan" throughout the novel. I'll use the same review format that I used for my look at The Top Seven Robert Ludlum Novels.
TIME PERIOD: From approximately 1960 to the late 1970s.
MAIN CHARACTER: John Mikali, a Greek concert pianist of much renown who leads a double life as the aforementioned Cretan Lover aka The Cretan. Mikali is descended from a fictional naval hero of the Greek War of Independence in the 1800s. His family remains wealthy and prominent, with his grandfather being an erudite and outspoken critic of the Colonels who seized control of Greece.
Young John himself is a gifted pianist but after getting drawn into a vendetta against the man who accidentally killed his beloved grandmother he fled into the French Foreign Legion. Despite his fey background John Mikali thrived in the Legion AND in the Algerian War, proving to be a ruthless, cold-hearted man who could kill enemy soldiers or non-combatants with equal skill and nonchalance. Continue reading →
Filed under opinion
Tagged as assassins, Balladeer's Blog, blogging, book reviews, Cretan Lover, espionage, glitternight.com, Jack Higgins, Solo
ROBERT LUDLUM NOVELS: EIGHTH PLACE
Balladeer's Blog previously examined my picks for The Top Seven Robert Ludlum Novels. Here's a look at the novel that would have been in 8th place if I had done his Top Eight. FOR THE TOP SEVEN CLICK HERE
8. THE PARSIFAL MOSAIC (1982)
TIME PERIOD: Early 1980s
Chronologically, this novel was the last Ludlum work that I really enjoyed. I found the Bourne sequels silly and most of his other subsequent works to just be tiresome rehashings of the stories he had written from 1971 to 1982.
As it is, The Parsifal Mosaic itself reuses plenty of elements from other, better Ludlum books but has just enough new touches for it to be a worthwhile read.
HERO: American Michael Havelock, a Czech-born Intelligence Officer. Havelock's father was retaliated against by the Nazis in the Lidice reprisal killings, just like Stefan Varak's character in The Chancellor Manuscript. Also like Varak, Michael Havelock was just a little boy when the Lidice slaughter occurred and he spent weeks on the run in the nearby forests scavenging food and killing Nazi soldiers when he could.
And like Varak, Havelock's father was targeted because he did covert work for the Allies, so when little Michael was brought in from the cold he was placed with well-to-do British and American families to complete his schooling all the way up through college.
The now-adult Havelock saw the clear similarities between Nazi and Soviet totalitarianism and in order to oppose the Communists he gravitated to Intelligence work. Michael's mentor and fellow Czech-American (more on him shortly) had brought him into the State Department, just like Robert Winthrop had brought Brandon Scofield into the State Department in The Matarese Circle.
Also like Scofield, Havelock transferred to Ludlum's fictional Consular Operations, the State Department's covert arm. From The Matarese Circle we readers know that "Cons Op" as it's called specializes in defections and in running escape routes from the Iron Curtain countries.
A very high-level defector with a secret agenda outside the typical Cold War machinations will loom large in the unfolding plot.
VILLAIN: An elusive figure or organization code-named PARSIFAL from Wagner's opera about the Knight named Parsifal (Percival to the English). Parsifal's conspiracy at first seems limited to fairly minor yet perplexing espionage activities but when all put together the title mosaic reveals a pattern that may trigger a three-way, all-out nuclear war pitting the United States, China and the Soviet Union against each other. Continue reading →
Filed under opinion, Pulp Heroes
Tagged as Balladeer's Blog, blogging, book reviews, espionage, glitternight.com, Jenna Karas, Michael Havelock, Parsifal Mosaic, Robert Ludlum, spy novels, Top Robert Ludlum Novels
THE TOP SEVEN NOVELS OF ROBERT LUDLUM: INDEX OF LINKS
Balladeer's Blog's list of Robert Ludlum's top seven novels was reasonably popular with readers. Here are links to each review of the set of seven:
NUMBER 7: THE GEMINI CONTENDERS (1976) – Click HERE
NUMBER 6: THE ROAD TO GANDOLFO (1975) – Click HERE
NUMBER 5: THE SCARLATTI INHERITANCE (1971) – Click HERE
NUMBER 4: THE CHANCELLOR MANUSCRIPT (1977) – Click HERE
NUMBER 3: THE HOLCROFT COVENANT (1978) – Click HERE
NUMBER 2: THE BOURNE IDENTITY (1980) – Click HERE
NUMBER 1: THE MATARESE CIRCLE (1979) – Click HERE
Tagged as Balladeer's Blog, book reviews, espionage, glitternight.com, Robert Ludlum, spy novels
TOP SEVEN ROBERT LUDLUM NOVELS: NUMBER TWO
FOR BALLADEER'S BLOG'S SEVENTH PLACE LUDLUM NOVEL CLICK HERE
2. THE BOURNE IDENTITY (1980)
TIME PERIOD: Vietnam War era to the late 1970s.
Robert Ludlum's most popular fictional creation – Jason Bourne (Real name David Webb) – has become as thoroughly overused, distorted and bastardized as James Bond or Sherlock Holmes. Ludlum himself already watered down the character's original impact with two additional novels putting the amnesiac figure in increasingly ridiculous situations.
Since then other writers have churned out so many silly Bourne stories (ten at last count) to the point where Jason Bourne In Spaaaaace is the only avenue left unexplored. Or maybe a crossover with All My Sins Remembered. The Matt Damon movies use virtually nothing but the Jason Bourne name.
To me the bulk of the appeal of the original novel The Bourne Identity was that a reader only had to suspend disbelief just enough to accept an amnesiac figure surviving the unique set of circumstances presented in that story.
At the end it was accepted by all characters that David Webb/ Jason Bourne was in no condition to continue his intelligence work. Not only because of his amnesia but because he had found happiness with Marie, which made him lose the near-suicidal edge he had needed to succeed as Bourne.
In my opinion Ludlum should have done PREQUEL stories of David Webb as Delta in the Vietnam War's Operation: Medusa or his days pursuing Carlos as Cain/ Jason Bourne PRIOR to his amnesia.
HERO: Since there are virtually no spoilers left about this character who has had everything but his own comic book series I will go ahead and lay out all the details of the ORIGINAL figure. This is for potential Bourne fans who associate him purely with the silly super-soldier nonsense of the movies and have avoided him because of that.
I think transferring Jason Bourne to more recent time periods robbed the story of a great deal of its unique appeal. Movies CAN work as period pieces. Studios still churn out spy flicks set during World War Two for crying out loud. There's no reason why they can't keep the period setting for stories dependent on the Vietnam War or late Cold War events for their full impact.
So again … HERO: DAVID WEBB, an American scholar who specialized in ancient Vietnamese culture and spoke multiple regional languages. Webb had been serving in various diplomatic posts throughout Indochina and had a Vietnamese wife and children.
When his wife and children were killed during a fly-by strafing from a plane of unknown national origin Webb left diplomatic work and volunteered for the top secret Operation: Medusa. (Ludlum's fictional version of the real-life Phoenix Project.)
Under the codename Delta (later refined to Delta One), David Webb thrived in that Black Ops program. Delta proved ruthless and bloodthirsty, with his command of local languages and culture making him an irreplaceable asset against the Viet Cong, the North Vietnamese regulars and international mercenaries in the region.
Operation: Medusa's operatives served as assassins, torturers, guerillas and saboteurs, often locating POW camps and facilitating escapes. On one particular mission Jason Bourne, a treacherous Medusan from Australia, betrayed Delta and his team. In response Webb killed Bourne on the spot. Continue reading →
Tagged as Balladeer's Blog, book reviews, Bourne Identity, espionage, glitternight.com, Jason Bourne, Robert Ludlum, spy novels
ROBERT LUDLUM'S TOP SEVEN NOVELS: NUMBER THREE
3. THE HOLCROFT COVENANT (1978)
TIME PERIOD: Late 1970s into the near future of the 1980s.
The crowded sub-genre of espionage tales about fugitive Nazi war criminals working with a younger generation of acolytes to launch a Fourth Reich probably reached its height with this Ludlum novel. Every entertaining element of that sub-genre came into play in The Holcroft Covenant, all of them woven into one epic-length story.
Take The ODESSA File, Marathon Man and The Boys From Brazil and roll them in with the Tom Cruise movie Valkyrie plus the real-life files of Nazi Hunters like Simon Wiesenthal. Now stir in Robert Ludlum's supreme talent for making implausibly melodramatic espionage plots seem chillingly possible and enjoy!
PLEASE DON'T JUDGE THE HOLCROFT COVENANT BY THE HORRIBLE FILM ADAPTATION FROM 1985. THAT MOVIE IS A SILLY AND INEPT BUTCHERING OF THE NOVEL.
HERO: Noel Holcroft, an American architect who is secretly the son of the fictional Heinrich Clausen, a masterful economist whose financial acumen was a cornerstone of Hitler's Third Reich. Noel's mother fled Germany when she found she was pregnant and did not want her hated husband Heinrich raising their child. She married an American man who raised Noel with her as if he was his own child.
All of that seems like ancient history to thirty-something Noel Holcroft, a successful New Yorker going into business for himself after working as an architect at various prestigious outfits. From out of the blue, representatives from the Grande Banque de Geneve contact Noel about a numbered Swiss Bank Account which his father left to him and the children of two associates.
Holcroft initially wants nothing to do with the bloody, tainted fortune of nearly 900 million dollars but the bankers from Geneva let him read documents from his father. In those aged documents addressed to his then-unborn son, Heinrich Clausen states he regrets being part of Hitler's organization and – now that he has learned of the ongoing Final Solution at the death-camps – he wants to make amends. The secret account is the tool.
If Noel carries out his father's wishes, he will inherit two million dollars from the bank account, with the rest going to Holocaust survivors or their families. All of this must be done in secret to prevent the Swiss Bank Account's funds from being tied up in court for decades by claims against the Nazis from other individuals and nations victimized by the Third Reich.
This story element shows Ludlum at his best: the lure of two million dollars provides the very real incentive to Noel to go along with all the secrecy surrounding this strange Covenant of his father's. More cynically, readers could say that it actually provides a rationalization for Holcroft to play along.
Our protagonist can assure himself that "Hey, if I don't go along with this plan then hundreds of millions of dollars will never reach their intended beneficiaries … THAT's why I'm cooperating, NOT just because of the money coming to ME." This self-deceiving motive makes Noel Holcroft seem more real than many other Ludlum heroes.
VILLAIN: Johann Von Tiebolt, the son of one of Heinrich Clausen's cohorts in diverting funds to the Geneva Account. Johann is known to the world at large as John Tennyson and is the designated New Fuhrer who will lead the Fourth Reich.
Yes, as would have been suspected by anyone whose mind wasn't clouded by the possibility of two million dollars and a life of financial independence, the Geneva Account is REALLY intended for a global network of Nazi descendants and new recruits.
Johann Von Tiebolt/ John Tennyson has emerged as the ideal leader of the conspiracy. Blonde, blue-eyed and in excellent physical condition this New Fuhrer poses as a journalist. That cover lets him roam the world secretly committing political assassinations and otherwise furthering the goals of the gestating Fourth Reich.
SYNOPSIS: The 900 million dollars in the Geneva Account will finance the finalization of the decades-long plans the Nazis' network has been working on. Those plans are for literal world conquest by way of political, financial and media manipulation. Noel's father was lying to his son when he wrote about his Covenant. Continue reading →
Tagged as Balladeer's Blog, book reviews, espionage, Fourth Reich, glitternight.com, Holcroft Covenant, Nazis, Neo-Nazis, Robert Ludlum, spy novels
ROBERT LUDLUM'S TOP SEVEN NOVELS: NUMBER FIVE
5. THE SCARLATTI INHERITANCE (1971)
TIME PERIOD: Pre-World War One Era on up through the start of the Great Depression with an epilogue set during World War Two.
This was Robert Ludlum's very first novel and it's a shame that the planned movie starring Ingrid Bergman never panned out. In my opinion there has never been a very good screen adaptation of a Ludlum novel. Or at least not when it comes to adaptations that are actually like their source material.
The successful Jason Bourne movies bear virtually no resemblance to the trilogy of novels that inspired them. Other films or mini-series' adapted from Ludlum's writings have tended to be so far off the mark that some of them qualify as classically bad, for instance The Osterman Weekend.
HEROINE: (This novel has a female and a male protagonist) Elizabeth Wyckham Scarlatti, an 1890s adventuress from American Old Money who – in her youth – spurned plenty of bloated rich pigs for not being as high-spirited and daring as she was.
Her heart and loins are finally stolen away by Italian-American Giovanni Scarlatti, a laborer in her father's factory. Though he speaks broken English, Scarlatti's mechanical genius is first-rate. The rebellious Elizabeth combines her own business acumen with Giovanni's aptitude for inventions and before long the two lovers are married and have taken over the companies run by her father and plenty of his friends.
The Scarlattis continue to thrive financially through the expected hardball methods and after having three children they change the family name to Scarlett. Eventually Giovanni dies of natural causes and eldest son Roland is killed during World War One.
Making her own version of Sophie's Choice, Elizabeth allows her brawling, bullying wastrel of a son Ulster to enlist in the Army to romantically take Roland's place in the World War while keeping third son Chancellor in America with her to prep him to take over Scarlett Industries when she dies.
HERO: Matthew Canfield, an accountant and investigative agent for the American government – specifically Group Twenty, Ludlum's fictional agency. Group Twenty was operative during the 1920s, when the bulk of this story takes place. Their agents specialized in uncovering financial hanky-panky in that gray area where dishonest business practices and outright criminality mingle. Continue reading →
Tagged as Balladeer's Blog, book reviews, espionage, glitternight.com, pulp stories, Robert Ludlum, Scarlatti Inheritance


text:
Posted inMidwest
Guaranteed savings contract helps Minnesota college finance efficiency
Winona State University is about to tackle the state's largest-ever guaranteed energy savings contract. The $12.3 million package of efficiency upgrades is being financed with the savings they are projected to create.
by Frank Jossi December 15, 2021 December 14, 2021
A proposed solar project at Winona State University. Credit: Winona State University / Courtesy
One of Minnesota's oldest state universities will undergo a major energy savings retrofit next year without tapping into any public funding.
Winona State University, founded as a teachers' college in 1858, is set to benefit from $12.3 million worth of upgrades to its southeastern Minnesota campus.
School officials could have spent years trying to persuade legislators to approve bonding money. Instead, the university is working with a contractor to manage a portfolio of energy improvements guaranteed to produce enough cost savings over the next two decades to pay for the projects and then some.
It's the largest project of its kind since state officials started the guaranteed energy savings program a decade ago. Without the financing option, "we probably wouldn't have been able to do this project at this cost," said Nathan Engstrom, Winona State's campus sustainability and planning director. "We don't have $12 million lying around; that's the bottom line."
The Minnesota Department of Commerce provides advice and information to state, county and local government institutions related to energy savings performance contracts, a budget-neutral way for public entities to pay for efficiency upgrades. Commerce recently changed the program's name to "energy savings performance contracting" to include a wider variety of projects.
Energy savings performance contracts make a simple promise — the energy saved through improvements will pay for the cost of the projects. Several states have programs similar to Minnesota's to help agencies, universities and local governments with the performance contracting process. Nationally, after years of little growth, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory reported the industry grew 3.4% from 2014 to 2018, with revenues expected to reach $9 billion this year.
In Minnesota, the program has helped invest $45 million into retrofitting 108 buildings representing nearly 6.4 million square feet of property. The participants, including four colleges, two cities, and the state transportation and natural resources departments, collectively save about $2.4 million annually.
Winona State University's contract is the largest the state office has ever assisted with. Commerce Commissioner Grace Arnold said the project shows there is momentum for more public service energy investments that do not require taxpayer dollars.
"We are optimistic Winona will inspire more higher education, state and local agencies to pursue energy savings performance contracting because it saves money and helps Minnesota have energy that is affordable, reliable and clean," Arnold said.
Winona State was happy to have support from the state office, whose involvement "offers additional levels of competence [and] security through the program that you wouldn't necessarily have if you did a performance contract with one of these energy service companies on your own," Engstrom said.
The university had been compiling a list of potential energy savings projects for a few years. Once selected, McKinstry did additional studies to determine the payback on deferred maintenance, solar and other repairs. The university found a lender through a competitive bidding process and signed an 18-year lease-to-purchase contract.
McKinstry will replace 21,000 light fixtures, make improvements to the school's central power plant, and replace every toilet, shower head, urinal, and faucet aerator on the campus. It will also build a large solar installation. As a result, the campus should save $26 million over 25 years, about $685,000 annually, and reduce carbon emissions by nearly 25%.
Every aspect of the improvements, including light bulbs and plumbing fixtures, are leased until the contract ends. Energy performance contracts carry liens for all the items installed, limiting to a degree what changes can be made. Engstrom said windows cannot be part of an energy performance contract because they cannot be removed should the university default on its obligations.
Engstrom said the energy savings start growing larger compared to the lease payments even in the first year. Savings the first year will be $670,000. The mix-and-match nature of the projects means that lighting saves money immediately while solar's payback comes years later, he said.
McKinstry recently finished work with the city of Rochester on a $6.8 million initiative that included retrofitting its civic center, recreational center and aquatic center. The first two projects will save the city $347,000 annually and help the city reach its climate goals.
Gregg Mast, executive director of Clean Energy Economy Minnesota, said guaranteed energy savings contracts are an affordable approach to reducing energy use, improving building infrastructure and creating local jobs.
The program "is a budget-neutral option for public entities looking to pursue energy improvements in their facilities," Mast said. "Upgrades can be made with no upfront cost, and energy savings pay for the improvements over time, eliminating the need to tap into precious capital budgets or asking more of taxpayers."
Despite having been around for decades and widely used by the federal government, performance-based energy contracts are still not widely embraced by institutions that would benefit from them, advocates said.
Timothy Unruh, executive director of the National Association of Energy Service Companies, said several obstacles exist to the model. One is that governments often have established "procurement pathways" for projects with a preferred list of contractors. "Someone might come in and protest that they're [a contractor] taking business from an area I used to get business and you know, and I'm a long-standing citizen here of this community," he said. "That's a reasonable claim."
Still, local companies often receive work on guaranteed energy savings jobs. National contractors often do lighting and water retrofits, but work involving building controls and mechanical systems are often assigned to local companies, Unruh said. In addition, he said local firms with government experience often receive work because of their familiarity with state and university buildings.
Secondly, the entire process is different from how institutions usually hire contractors. An energy performance provider identifies the scope of a project rather than the client. "You end up having to make a selection of a company to move forward with a project before you know the scope of the work of the project," he said. "It's difficult to create a bid situation to evaluate that."
Other issues involve concerns over financing, whether the approach offers the lowest cost for a project, and public employees' hesitancy to try something new. Because the contracts last between 15 to 20 years, public employees are unlikely to do more than one in their careers. Without institutional knowledge, employees remain skittish to be the first ones to try something new, Unruh said.
McKinstry's Midwest regional director, John Neville, said the primary advantage of using an energy services company is their sole focus on buildings, efficiency and clean energy. Universities and state agencies may have knowledgeable facility managers but rarely have the time or staff to thoroughly study potential efficiency upgrades or integrations with clean energy generation, he said.
The company revisits energy-saving and solar generation estimates with performance annually to ensure customers see progress. "We want every project that we do to be a success because that's how we get the next project — that's how we get to phase two with the same customer," he said.
Tagged: education, efficiency, Minnesota, syndication
Frank Jossi
Frank is an independent journalist and consultant based in St. Paul and a longtime contributor to Midwest Energy News. His articles have appeared in more than 50 publications, including Minnesota Monthly, Wired, the Los Angeles Times, the Minneapolis Star Tribune, Minnesota Technology, Finance & Commerce and others. Frank has also been a Humphrey policy fellow at the University of Minnesota, a Fulbright journalism teacher in Pakistan and Albania, and a program director of the World Press Institute at Macalester College.
More by Frank Jossi
by Frank Jossi, Energy News Network

Guaranteed savings contract helps Minnesota college finance efficiency

by Frank Jossi, Energy News Network
December 15, 2021

One of Minnesota's oldest state universities will undergo a major energy savings retrofit next year without tapping into any public funding.

Winona State University, founded as a teachers' college in 1858, is set to benefit from $12.3 million worth of upgrades to its southeastern Minnesota campus.

School officials could have spent years trying to persuade legislators to approve bonding money. Instead, the university is working with a contractor to manage a portfolio of energy improvements guaranteed to produce enough cost savings over the next two decades to pay for the projects and then some.

It's the largest project of its kind since state officials started the guaranteed energy savings program a decade ago. Without the financing option, "we probably wouldn't have been able to do this project at this cost," said Nathan Engstrom, Winona State's campus sustainability and planning director. "We don't have $12 million lying around; that's the bottom line."

The Minnesota Department of Commerce provides advice and information to state, county and local government institutions related to energy savings performance contracts, a budget-neutral way for public entities to pay for efficiency upgrades. Commerce recently changed the program's name to "energy savings performance contracting" to include a wider variety of projects.

Energy savings performance contracts make a simple promise — the energy saved through improvements will pay for the cost of the projects. Several states have programs similar to Minnesota's to help agencies, universities and local governments with the performance contracting process. Nationally, after years of little growth, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory reported the industry grew 3.4% from 2014 to 2018, with revenues expected to reach $9 billion this year.

In Minnesota, the program has helped invest $45 million into retrofitting 108 buildings representing nearly 6.4 million square feet of property. The participants, including four colleges, two cities, and the state transportation and natural resources departments, collectively save about $2.4 million annually.

Winona State University's contract is the largest the state office has ever assisted with. Commerce Commissioner Grace Arnold said the project shows there is momentum for more public service energy investments that do not require taxpayer dollars.

"We are optimistic Winona will inspire more higher education, state and local agencies to pursue energy savings performance contracting because it saves money and helps Minnesota have energy that is affordable, reliable and clean," Arnold said.

Winona State was happy to have support from the state office, whose involvement "offers additional levels of competence [and] security through the program that you wouldn't necessarily have if you did a performance contract with one of these energy service companies on your own," Engstrom said.

The university had been compiling a list of potential energy savings projects for a few years. Once selected, McKinstry did additional studies to determine the payback on deferred maintenance, solar and other repairs. The university found a lender through a competitive bidding process and signed an 18-year lease-to-purchase contract.

McKinstry will replace 21,000 light fixtures, make improvements to the school's central power plant, and replace every toilet, shower head, urinal, and faucet aerator on the campus. It will also build a large solar installation. As a result, the campus should save $26 million over 25 years, about $685,000 annually, and reduce carbon emissions by nearly 25%.

Every aspect of the improvements, including light bulbs and plumbing fixtures, are leased until the contract ends. Energy performance contracts carry liens for all the items installed, limiting to a degree what changes can be made. Engstrom said windows cannot be part of an energy performance contract because they cannot be removed should the university default on its obligations.

Engstrom said the energy savings start growing larger compared to the lease payments even in the first year. Savings the first year will be $670,000. The mix-and-match nature of the projects means that lighting saves money immediately while solar's payback comes years later, he said.

McKinstry recently finished work with the city of Rochester on a $6.8 million initiative that included retrofitting its civic center, recreational center and aquatic center. The first two projects will save the city $347,000 annually and help the city reach its climate goals.

Gregg Mast, executive director of Clean Energy Economy Minnesota, said guaranteed energy savings contracts are an affordable approach to reducing energy use, improving building infrastructure and creating local jobs.

The program "is a budget-neutral option for public entities looking to pursue energy improvements in their facilities," Mast said. "Upgrades can be made with no upfront cost, and energy savings pay for the improvements over time, eliminating the need to tap into precious capital budgets or asking more of taxpayers."

Despite having been around for decades and widely used by the federal government, performance-based energy contracts are still not widely embraced by institutions that would benefit from them, advocates said.

Timothy Unruh, executive director of the National Association of Energy Service Companies, said several obstacles exist to the model. One is that governments often have established "procurement pathways" for projects with a preferred list of contractors. "Someone might come in and protest that they're [a contractor] taking business from an area I used to get business and you know, and I'm a long-standing citizen here of this community," he said. "That's a reasonable claim."

Still, local companies often receive work on guaranteed energy savings jobs. National contractors often do lighting and water retrofits, but work involving building controls and mechanical systems are often assigned to local companies, Unruh said. In addition, he said local firms with government experience often receive work because of their familiarity with state and university buildings.

Secondly, the entire process is different from how institutions usually hire contractors. An energy performance provider identifies the scope of a project rather than the client. "You end up having to make a selection of a company to move forward with a project before you know the scope of the work of the project," he said. "It's difficult to create a bid situation to evaluate that."

Other issues involve concerns over financing, whether the approach offers the lowest cost for a project, and public employees' hesitancy to try something new. Because the contracts last between 15 to 20 years, public employees are unlikely to do more than one in their careers. Without institutional knowledge, employees remain skittish to be the first ones to try something new, Unruh said.

McKinstry's Midwest regional director, John Neville, said the primary advantage of using an energy services company is their sole focus on buildings, efficiency and clean energy. Universities and state agencies may have knowledgeable facility managers but rarely have the time or staff to thoroughly study potential efficiency upgrades or integrations with clean energy generation, he said.

The company revisits energy-saving and solar generation estimates with performance annually to ensure customers see progress. "We want every project that we do to be a success because that's how we get the next project — that's how we get to phase two with the same customer," he said.

This article first appeared on Energy News Network and is republished here under a Creative Commons license.


Always wanted to take your family away somewhere amazing but don't think you can afford it? This is something that many families struggle with and so holidays often get cast aside for other expensive items such as cars or home repairs.
Of course, having a memorable family holiday doesn't have to be a distant dream. There are plenty of ways that you can afford that dream holiday and take your kids away somewhere that they'll remember for a long time. Here, we are going to give you some tips on how you can do exactly that. Keep reading to find out more.
Family holidays can be very expensive, especially if you need to pay for yourself, your partner and a few kids. For this reason, you need to think about when the best time to travel is and make sure that you are not falling into the trap of travelling during peak season. Hotels and airlines recognise when travellers want to get away and so increase their prices in order to make a little more cash to cover the off-season.
Not everyone is able to travel in the off-season but if you and your family are able to get some time off then consider booking your trip during this time. This will save you a lot of cash overall and you'll be able to afford that memorable holiday that you've always dreamed of.
While you might have a dream destination in mind for your family trip, you might need to make some sacrifices to be able to afford to take your entire family away. Some destinations will be much more expensive for families as they will be targeted at kids such as Disneyland Paris. This is why you need to think about where the most affordable destinations are.
In recent years, sunny tourist locations like Spain or Portugal have become a lot more affordable than other locations and this might be the best possible option for you – if you can go during the spring or autumn! Write down a list of affordable destinations that you'd like to take your family on and have every choose which one they'd like to visit most. This way, you can go on an affordable trip and have a great time with your family.
If you really want to have an amazing trip, then you are going to need to start saving as soon as possible. The more cash that you have, the less guilty you'll feel about heading off into the sun with your family. Consider making yourself a monthly budget to live by and reminding your kids that you are saving up for a holiday so you can't buy lots of new things for them between now and then.
Try to save as much as possible and remember that there are many hidden costs of travelling. Once you have saved as much as you think you can, you can get started on making the bookings and heading off on a big family holiday that you will remember forever.
Another great tip that we have for parents who want to be able to afford a memorable family trip next year is to use a travel agent. In 2019, travel agents recognise that families are struggling for cash and so they have certain options that can help to spread out the cost of a holiday.
Visit your local travel agent and ask about the options available to you. You might find that they let you put down a deposit on the holiday and you'll not have to pay off the final payment until nearer the time. This will give you more time to save up the cash to afford your memorable family holiday.
When it comes to getting your entire family to the airport, you might find that a taxi is going to be quite expensive. If you live in London and don't live near the airport, then you will find that it can be much easier and more cost-effective to bring your car. You'll be in charge of when you leave, and you'll be able to get home faster once you land back in the UK.
For families planning on travelling from Luton, there is a great service that allows you to book your Luton airport parking online before you go. Luton Parking online comes with huge discounts and this could help you to stretch your budget even more. Consider parking at Luton airport or your nearest UK airport to take advantage of this offer and afford your family holiday next year.
One of the best ways to stretch your budget in order to afford your next big family holiday is to book a villa for your family to stay in. Booking out multiple hotel rooms can be very expensive, and you'll be paying for some of your food in advance which can be quite costly. When you book a villa, you'll have your own private space to stay in and it will be much more cost-effective.
Not only will booking a villa be cheaper overall, but you'll also get your own kitchen where you can cook meals for your family when you are away. This will save you a lot of your spending money and you'll be able to spend it on making your holiday even more memorable. Take a look at some of the impressive villas online and you will be amazed at the good deals on offer.
On a family holiday, you'll need to keep your kids entertained but this can be quite expensive when you are constantly needing to do activities. To combat this, and make your holiday much more affordable, we suggest that you book your tickets in advance of your trip online.
For example, if you are going to be visiting a waterpark, you might find that booking your family pass online will be much cheaper than buying it when you're there – and you'll get to skip the queue. This also applies to attractions such as the Eiffel Tower and other popular tourist attractions. Do some research and find out about bulk bookings as this could save you a lot of cash.
Our final tip to help you afford a memorable family holiday next year is to encourage your kids to get involved in the saving. If you let them know that you are going to be doing some really fun activities when you go away, they might be more likely to save up some of their pocket money to spend when they get there. While you can't expect them to pay for a large chunk of the trip, having them pay for some of their own ice creams or souvenirs while they're there can save you a little cash.
If you are struggling to take your family on a big trip, you should make sure to take on board all of the tips that we have given you in this article. Get saving, make some sacrifices and you'll have a family holiday to remember.


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African Christian Leadership
African Christian Leadership, Realities, Opportunities, and Impact, American Society of Missiology , Robert J. Priest, Kirimi Barine, Index, 320, softcover
Provides insights on the support and training necessary to promote African Christianity and foster the healthy development of Africa.
The Tao of Liberation, Exploring the Ecology of Transformation, Ecology and Justice Series, Mark Hathaway, Leonardo Boff, 448, Softcover
In the ancient image of the Tao--the principle of living in balance with the wisdom of the cosmos--they lay out a path of spiritual renewal, ecological transformation, and authentic liberation.
The Gospel Among the Nations, A Documentary History of Inculturation, American Society of Missiology Series, Robert A. Hunt, 400, Softcover
Offers the most comprehensive collection available of original texts illustrating how Christians throughout the ages have struggled to inculturate the gospel.
Inspired Sustainability, Planting Seeds for Action, Ecology & Justice, Erin Lothes Biviano, Index, 288, softcover
This book asks (and answers) an important question: How do we encourage and empower activists and scholars to work for environmental sustainability?
Classic Texts in Mission & World Christianity, American Society of Missiology Series, Norman E. Thomas, 350, Softcover
This companion to Transforming Mission gathers in one volume key texts from history.
Mission In Acts, Ancient Narratives in Contemporary Context, American Society of Missiology Series, Robert L. Gallagher, Paul Hertig, 288, Softcover
A commentary on the Acts of the Apostles and the biblical text as they apply to the challenges of mission and ministry in today's multicultural context.
Constants in Context, Theology of Mission for Today, American Society of Missiology Series, Stephen B. Bevans, Roger Schroeder, 504, Softcover
Helps members of every denomination understand how they fit into the mosaic of the many churches' witness to the Gospel.
Christophany, The Fullness of Man, Faith Meets Faith Series, Raimon Panikkar, 192, Softcover
One of the most original scholars of world religions explores the relationship of humanity and divinity.
A Theology of Southeast Asia
A Theology of Southeast Asia, Liberation-Postcolonial Ethics in the Philippines, Duffy Lectures Boston College, Agnes M. Brazal, Index, 232, softcover
An incisive look at postcolonial theology and ethics in the Philippines, including the struggles of Indigenous peoples.
Landmark Essays in Mission and World Christianity, American Society of Missiology Series, Robert L. Gallagher, Paul Hertig, 288, Softcover
Ideal for study or reference, this volume collects classic essays from the past century on the most pressing questions in mission studies.
Transforming Mission, Paradigm Shifts in Theology of Mission, American Society of Missiology Series, David J. Bosch, 660, Softcover
Named by Christianity Today as one of the Top 100 Most Significant Books of the Twentieth Century.
Breaking through the Boundaries
Breaking through the Boundaries, Biblical Perspectives on Mission from the Outside In, American Society of Missiology , Paul Hertig, Young Lee Hertig, Sarita Gallagher Edwards, Robert L. Gallagher, 216, softcover
An innovative approach in missiology that weaves together historical biblical interpretation with contemporary sociological and anthropological analysis.
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It ain't a true Outside Lands experience without an appearance by the legends Karl the Fog and…Janet Jackson.
Saturday night marked a record breaking day in Outside Lands history with a little help from Florence Welch.
Outside Lands 2018 started off strong on Friday convincing us that it might have reached its apex this year for one simple reason: The overall Outside Lands experience has gotten better.
SOHN's last show opening for alt-J in Los Angeles was an atmospheric beauty for the books.
The Brits know how to ring in the holiday cheer at Pandora Holiday in New York City.


Teaching 12 to 15 contact hours in the area of social science courses per week with one to four preparations including history, government and politics, sociology, social science research, and contemporary issues. Teaching classes in accordance with the goals and objectives of the course as described in the course outline. Maintaining accurate records of student attendance and student learning outcomes/grades, in accordance with COM-FSM regulations. Submitting records to Chairperson after the end of the semester/session. Keeping at least 5 office hours per week. Participating in one standing committee or providing alternative services to the college and community as specified in Administrative Procedure 6026; may be asked to participate in adhoc committees. Advising students. Participating in special College functions such as graduation. Participating in Division activities. This includes meetings, curriculum development and developing procedures for improving current classes. Participating in assessment activities. Participating in professional development. Serve on committee. Attending to additional needs of the College or the community as agreed upon by the faculty member in consultation with their supervisor.
Master's degree in Micronesia/Pacific Studies, History, Political Science or related area from a US accredited institution. Foreign credentials must be equated to US standards using World Education Services at http://www.wes.org. Applicant must have two years of full-time teaching at the post-secondary level and experience with establishment and assessment of student learning outcomes. Two years' experience in living overseas from the applicant homeland is preferred. Ability to give evidence of exemplary teaching ability, initiative, interpersonal skills, and cultural sensitivity are essential.
Preferred: experience working with ESL students and working overseas, knowledge of Micronesian area.
Applications will be accepted until January 13, 2018 followed by screening by the committee or until fill. Official and hard copies of college transcripts are require to be mailed directly from schools to HRO when a candidate is being considered.