text:
Ministerpräsident Orbán: Die Migration wird auch künftig die politischen Debatten bestimmen
Die Migration bleibt weiterhin die Hauptdebatte in der europäischen Politik, sagte Ministerpräsident Viktor Orbán in seinem regelmäßigen Radiointerview am Freitagmorgen.
Hungary's 2020 Budget: families, families and families
In addition to supporting families, the 2020 budget is also about protecting the economic results achieved so far and continuing tax reductions
PM Orbán: Migration will continue to define future political debates
Migration remains the main question for debate in European politics
Here's what you need to know about the reform of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences
Here's what's happening and why.
PM Orbán: You can count on us in the fight for our common values
Prime Minister Orbán said that while the relationship between our two countries has had its highs and lows, good and bad times over the past few years, "Hungarians now feel that these are good times."
Address by Viktor Orbán at an event marking the United States' Independence Day
"You can count on us in the fight for our common values, whether it be in the meeting rooms or on the battlefields."
A humanitarian assistance program to save them from the long and dangerous plight of the migrant
This is how Hungary helps Africans find stability and security at home to avoid becoming refugees.
Zrínyi 2026 Program
News in Brief Prime Minister
NATO summit: PM Orbán says that Hungary is one of the world's safest countries
Hungary supports the US president's assertion that European countries should channel more reasonable levels of funding towards their armed forces and security needs, the prime minister said
Hungary to contribute more to NATO's defense efforts
The foreign minister said Hungary has embarked on a comprehensive military reform with a view to producing a regionally competitive army
Increasing the defense budget: "A strong Hungary cannot exist without a strong military"
Jun 07, 2018 - Zoltán Kovács
Prime Minister Orbán recently announced that defense expenditures will more than double in the coming years.
Security and defense among top priorities makes Hungary one of the world's safest countries
Jan 05, 2018 - Zoltán Kovács
In a Europe that has experienced acts of terrorism with increasing frequency in recent years, Hungary stands out as an island of security at the heart of the continent. The reasons are many, but important among them is the political will to keep it like that. In addition to the border fence securing an otherwise vulnerable stretch of the European Union's southeastern border, the Orbán Government bolstered defense forces through the Zrinyi 2026 program.
Hungary to resume training of military pilots and air traffic controllers
The government is pushing forward with the development of the Hungarian Defence Forces. The first phase of the Zrínyi 2026 National Defence and Armed Forces Development Program has already been launched
Hungary swears in 154 new soldiers at oath-taking ceremony in Szentendre
Hungarian soldiers have fulfilled their duties to the highest standards also in the protection of our southern borders in the past eighteen months to two years, Hungary's defense minister said
How many EU countries have laws on the books that empower the government to mobilise the military in the event of a terror attack?


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Entheogenic - Flight of the Urubus
By Rinpoche
p(sy)ayam
finally on psyshop !!!!!
http://www.psyshop.com/shop/CDs/usr/usr1cd001.html
Melancholyman 7 posts
psyspectrum 5 posts
SkeletonMan 5 posts
Redington 4 posts
Melancholyman
Location:Stockholm, Sweden
Interests:Music, Mushrooms, The psychedelic mind, Philosophy.
Good, Psyshop is reliable not like the
CUNTS!!
at universal symbiosis records and Huna Kub that gives promises not holding them.!
well that good news :posford:
psyspectrum
Good, though I had no problem ordering from USR, the CD arrived very quick.
Come on, Psynews or Universal Symbiosis Records does it matter. Its a great album, only thing that matters :posford: :posford: :posford:
gammylegs
New to the forum, just want to say hi to everyone and show my appreciation for this release. Got some beautiful tracks on which send me to a higher level. Rice and peace
Location:Shpongleland
Interests:music (obviously), reading, computer games, etc
If you think those are great then you should listen to their Spontaneous Illumination album if you haven't already.
Location:on a sofa somewhere in Antwerp
I must admit that I was a bit skeptical after the imho dissapointing "Golden Cap" but this is, again imho, much better.....of course my collection (thus my ears) lack the sounds from the first two albums, which are, if I can believe this forum, great......
imho "Dialogue of the speakers" was also great, despite the unusual cover perhaps.....
but two things come to mind with the new album:
1: I do not really understand the fuzz about "skullcap", for me it has some really annoying sound in it...
2: the lenght of the tracks.....tooooooooo short.......'except "skullcap" of course, which is toooo long...hehe....
but all in all a very good album yes and it restored my fate in Entheogenic.....(track5 = my favorite)
greetings to all of you
perhaps people here look for PSYCHEDELIC tunes
skullcap is the only psychedelic song on this album IMO. rest of the album is more appropriate for Cafe Del Mar and Buddha Bar compilations! :drama:
I do realise people out here look for psychedelic tunes....myself included......been listening to psy for over a decade now.....
that still doesn't mean i have to like everything that is supposed to be psy.....I just do not like that particular song....and i find the rest better....must be getting old i pressume...hahaha
healium
Location:Ca
I like this album ok but am not blown away by it.. I feel the Shulman and Ott albums have more depth..
kirkybird
This album has some of the best psychedelic chill tracks on it - Microcondian - Skullcap - Trara, and some other great tracks maybe not so psy but none the less great music to listen to.
Great tracks, a bit less chilled then their earlier ones, makes a good listening all together.
Jon Cocco
Interests:Agate, Agartha, animals, ascension, compassion, creativity, dogs, eco-friendly, energy-matches, evolution, exercise, filmmaking, happiness, healthy food, higher consciousness, heart, humility, influencing, imagination, love, meditation, mind, mindfulness, movement, music, nature, optimism, positive, sun, traveling, understanding, peace, water, wholeness
Universal Symbiosis Records
1. Skullcap
2. Trara
3. Araras
4. Entheogen Spice
5. Microcondian
6. Urubus
7. Vervain
9. Rio Barra
10. Itaipava
I like these artists for recycling and caring about the environment. But making their album difficult to order off any site but their own for months was not fun. Whatever the reason, to build internet buzz maybe, I don't know -- I finally got it so I can relate to all the fuss and decide what I think of the album. Entheogenic changed a variety of things here relative to previous releases. Such changes include relatively shorter tracks, more tracks, a stronger emphasis on downbeat and psychedelic edge over chill, and more. I'm happy with the changes and I felt that these artists needed to reinvent themselves in some ways in order to make more of an impact in the downtempo genre. This is no excuse to slack off however. The next album should be just as if not even stronger. I skipped buying 2006'a Golden Cap, though I wanted to after hearing The Solution Machine followed by a few others. Flight of the Urubus will be the first album I give a real review to by them.
1. Skullcap begins with the sound of think, running water followed by gentle key notes and several strange instrumental sounds. It sounds organic and enhanced via customized software options. It's also a bit psychedelic. A main melody part appears around 1:51 before the beat picks up. As the song progresses I become more conscious of the altered, distorted instrumental effects; the notes purposefully tweeked to emphasis the psychedelic effect I presume. From around 4:50 into the fifth the rumbling sound works well with the song. But there is a displeasing sound being generated from this distorted orchestra. I like the concept of changing instruments, but playing a bunch of sounds that appear to be coming from half broken musical devices only goes so far before getting on my nerves. I like their experimentation and the concept but I'm no fan of how the idea is implemented here with few exceptions. This is an okay track. So far I'm not impressed. C+
2. Trara is both friendlier on the ears and generally catchier than the opening. It's more driving and appears to become more involving and interesting as it progresses. I like the streaking melody emphasis however along with various other sounds, melodies. It's cool. Now take the cool elements and make a super song with them. The group has the ingredients to produce something even better in the future, and this shows clear potential. Cool track, nothing spectacular. B-
3. Araras is IMO the first solid or good/great track on the album. The opening melody work is strong, contemplative and the voice sample enhances it. The beat is stronger. Sound effects compliment the beat, various psy sounds melt into the ambient, atmosphere, and the song develops in a positive way. Numerous instruments are incorporated into the mix and everything works well, but the melody lead around 2:45 is great! The entire track is built around a hook, a chorus in a sense coupled with a unique voice sample that is never overdone or irritating, though what's being said isn't all that interesting. I like it. The harder drum work at times adds to the dynamics; that returning melody, again around 4:00 is great, and how the track changes up, evolves with it is strong. The song runs shorter than most tracks I've heard by them but the quality over quantity really shines. Good if not great track! B+
4. Entheogen Spice is more cheerful, upbeat. The melody work reminds me of their earlier work. The sound effects, psy water droplets and more enhance these old school elements with nice, new school packaging. The first half is a little redundant. The violen work and melody is catchy. The voice is a little awkward. Most people don't know what this person is saying anyway. It isn't bad however, though it does little to enhance the music. The piano work towards the end adds a nice touch. Overall, a pretty good song. B-
5. Microcondian is very cool. Here is the darker, more atmospheric number on the album. Consider this, not a sequel, but the follow up to The Solution Machine, possibly my favorite track from Entheogenic's previous 2006 album. The hard beat jumps in around 1:35. It's great. Sounds of swords clash as the rustling of chains shake from the pirate ship sailing on a dark mission. The melody work from 2:29 crossing over into the third minute is great. I like how moody and atmospheric this song is. An interlude takes place around 3:30. More strong melody work around 4:12. It's very cool to see this group create with a strong concept and execution a gripping song I'd consider in the darker realm of downtempo. Nice work! Each act seems to have a strong element that carries the number further into a healthy evolution, regardless of the health present with the characters in the story. The choir around 6:00 is good too and the atmosphere makes the song even more interesting. This track gives the album more variety in a good way. I could be happy with an entire album in this darker style actually but I know not everyone would agree with that. Anyway, this is one of my favorite tracks here. Great, excellent track! B+ / A-
6. Urubus is anotehr cheerful, upbeat number, one I find far more fun and upbeat, catchy than the other cheerful Entheogen Spice. This is faster, uplifting, and filled with life. No voice exists either to distract from the layers of music and speed. Good, great track! We're finally on a role again. I'm not complaining about the shorter length, long as the song is strong and preferably over 5-6 minutes at least B+
7. Vervain is a slower, more romantic number. Finally these artists have produced a somewhat floating and euphoirc track with a medium speed, beat, and drive in a non intense way that compliments their style. Finally. The interlude in the middle is good. This The music continues, it's strong, feel good. The cheering towards the end is very positive too, and all other voice work. Great work! So far the variety on this album is healthy and solid with few (what I consider) dips. B+
8. Fellowship appears to have more of a Jazz/organic influence. There is a stronger sound in the forfront while the band plays not far behind it. Overall a decent track with some nice musical elements. It becomes more layered as it progresses but the overall song is nothing great. Decent track. C+
9. Rio Barra is more Jazz or at least lounge oriented with a present, strong tune varietion similar in tempo and style, basially a cousin to my first favorite melody on the album via Araras. This sound works well to compliment the slower, more chilled Jazz band. The song would be lacking and less enjoyable without it, in my opinion. The group as made a track that can appeal to both Jazz and downtempo fans to some degree. While I don't care for this song very much, it's pretty good, just nothing riveting or all that eventful, desirable to sink my teeth into. B-
10. Itaipava is the first song to take advantage of those altered voice sound effects a la Madonna's "Die Another Day" theme song in 2002's self titled Bond flick. Also in 2008's "OTT - Skylon" album. Overall I don't like the effect in general; I'm glad they kept it short here as it cheapens the song, as effect taken advantage of over the years to compensate for singers who lack tapping their diaphragm, though that may not be the case here. I just don't like the effect in general, same with Infected Mushoom's Erez who probably needs it to not sound as bad. The song itself is a decent, fairly good world/ethnic instrumental piece coupled. The group could have ended the album with something stronger, more appealing. It's not bad at least, but my least favorite track on the album. A more or less decent ending to an otherwise strong album. C+
In conclusion, Flight of the Urubus is a stronger album than recent releases by Entheogenic and quite possibly their best release since the first two. The style has been reworked and modernized in a way that I feel delivers a refreshing approach to the downtempo/Psy genre, from what this group has done previously. Not everyone will love it or be pleased, and I clearly see room for improvement on this more more dynamic, less chilled albeit influenced at times style. I felt more involved with the album on the third number, Araras. This prizes the strong melody/sound work I'd love to see this group develop and continue to evolve, as it's one of their gifts. There's a dark track I really like called Microcondian; it's very cool and moody; I'd love to see more works like this one too. The album is comprised with a handful of good and great tracks. Several decent, not so great tracks exist as well. This is a good album overall, maybe great, though a bit overrated relative to some comments I read here. I mean, we knew these artists had potential to produce something more novel, energetic and here it is. It's cool to see them awakening to more of their potential. Unfortunately, a far from stellar beginning and end takes away from the bigger picture. I'm happy to have finally heard/bought the album. It's one of the better, possibly one of the best downtempo releases of 2008 with more emphasis on the Psy. A bit less on the Chill, floating aspects that made certain previous albums more peaceful and in some ways dull and/or redundant at times. There are chill aspects nonetheless that work well into the more exercised style and sound. I'd like to see Entheogenic build more imaginative, passionate, and powerful, memorable songs in the direction (and continue to innovate in positive ways) of their strongest work here. Good album!
Favorite tracks: 2, 3, 5, 6, 8, 9.
Itaipava:
another classic !
this is for sure a classic album which will go far beyond the Psy scene !
I like the album too but I wouldn't go calling it a classic and saying that it goes "far beyond the Psy scene." This seemed like such a "perfect" review of the album. I became utterly suspecious after reading it. Actually I wouldn't be suprised if a couple (not many but several) posters showed up here to, yeah. This is a cool album that deserves attention OMO. But to call it a classic?? It is far too soon to even think of words so big.
As of November 29 this person has posted one comment. Can you guess which one it is?
I like this one pretty well - some really nice moments, and some fresh feeling ideas at times...
I don't think this album comes anywhere near the depth and complexity of either the new Shulman or Ott albums though, and the singing and samples are quite bad and amateur sounding IMO...
Now this sounds sincere, and not because Healium focused on +/- either. I actually believe what he says here, and it comes across as a short and to the point express review.
Good review Jon Cocco. Always appreciate the effort somebody makes to write a deep review.
Funny though how taste is different and I guess this is a good thing. Skullcap would be my "favourite" on this album, didnt make it into yours though.So I guess there is something for everybody on this album.
In case anyone hasn't heard Entheogenic's debut album has been re-issued by USR (£6.99):
Entheogenic - Entheogenic
http://universalsymbiosisrecords.net/usr_s...ff14b40aa9e8705
I ordered a copy back in September when it was released and it was sent out the next day so I can give a good report on their service.
In case anyone hasn't heard Entheogenic's debut album...
You're kidding right?
Nope ... I did say in case (you haven't heard that it has been re-issued)
As you were suggesting someone should listen to an old Entheogenic album that is out-of-print I thought I'd mention one that you can actually get hold of again.
ericflyer
One of those albums that cant be missed in any chill collection
yup...
have to agree with you there...
Flight oF thE Urubus.. is almost up there with the best.. still growing on me
I've re-listened to it and I don't even mind them singing in the two tracks. It fits in there fine by me. Skullcap, Microcondian, Araras are my favorite tracks. Overall, it's good quality music.
uono
I would say they did a very fine job on it, also the voices are real interesting. More so they are real and not from a sample CD. Hope to see a new release soon from the Duo.
yerg
Not bad really. Nice tracks but the last one has extremely cheesy vocals - and that is not allowed in any psy-chill release
Guys from Entheogenic still can't reach their "Spontaneous Illumination" break-through but for that one i send them my best compliments.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


text:
These are the good times, people
The world's financial commentators reliably inform us that periods of market activity can be divided up into bull markets, where stock prices are generally rising, and bear markets, where they are generally falling.
Of course, the problem with these terms is that a linguistic sleight of hand hides a considerable uncertainty. When we say prices are going down, present tense, we are of course describing a current movement, akin to a derivative in mathematics. But prices are not like an automobile that has an actual velocity and momentum ("momentum" in stock prices being nothing of the sort). Each change is discrete. So what we can measure is that they went down. What we'd like to know is that they will go down. The difference, of course, is the difference between knowing yesterday's winning lottery numbers and tomorrow's winning lottery numbers.
And yet, even in the case of hindsight, there seems to be an odd asymmetry.
When markets are crashing, like they were in 2008, people are fairly quick to label the event as disaster. In other words, negative returns seems to be taken as portending further negative returns.
But oddly, when markets are rising, it seems to my anecdotal observation that it takes a very long period before people are willing to describe it as a bull market. You read about how big the returns were in the 1980's, or the mid 1990's, and assume that everyone must have been partying the whole time. Not necessarily. It turns out, we've been living through an astonishing period of high stock returns for over a decade. Did it feel like that to you each day? It sure didn't to me. Yet it's true.
That's right, the famous financial crisis is that medium sized dip about one third of the way through the picture. The rest is a collossal bull market that you didn't hear much about for most of its history if you just read the front page of the New York Times each day.
Puts a little bit of a different perspective on the matter, no?
Financial markets seem to indicate the Solon perspective that no man should be called happy until he dies. Nothing is a bull market until it is finished.
And while I think financial markets are the somewhat extreme example of this, I think something similar applies in politics.
A recurring theme in recent dissident right twitter commentary is that we live in clown world. The modern west, and America in particular, seems increasingly focused on going full steam ahead with the most absurd aspects of cultural marxism.
Increasingly aggressive propaganda aims to demonize straight white men as the cause of everything wrong in the world. The most pressing civil rights issue in America these days seems to be trans rights. Whatever you think of them, it is striking what a tiny fraction of the population they actually affect. If you're a conservative, the heartening thing about Drag Queen Story Hour is that there just doesn't seem to be a large enough supply of drag queens interested in it to make it anything more than a fringe cultural phenomenon, rather than something coming soon to a library near you.
The clown world critique gets right that the modern west is increasingly absurd. But there are many types of absurd. It is hard to think of a more morbidly absurd, pointlessly gruesome spectacle than the trenches of WWI. And yet you wouldn't be tempted to describe it as clown world. It's just too horrifying for ironic humour to seem appropriate, even as a cynical defense mechanism (though Joseph Heller did a good job of credibly portraying this attitude about WW2 in Catch-22).
No, what clown world also requires is an obsession with trivialities. The correct representation of women and minorities in pop culture. Ginned up internet outrage mobs because some white teenager smirked at a Native American banging a drum in his face. Whether we should pay reparations to black Americans because their ancestors were slaves.
These are the problems you create for yourself when you don't have any real problems to worry about. Like, for instance, the threat that the Russians might nuke you at any moment. Or that terrorists have just murdered thousands of people and destroyed two buildings in New York City. Or even that you're in the midst of the largest financial crisis in eighty years. They are, in other words, not existential threats to the very existence of our society, or terrifying possibilities that might destroy your life, safety or livelihood at any moment. They are the societal equivalent of first world problems.
Reader, I am old enough to vaguely remember when slavery reparations were last a thing. It was the 1990s, an era of similarly aimless cultural drifting, as America struggled to find a purpose after the end of the Cold War. The most pressing social problem was the grim farce of the OJ Simpson trial. The 90's were a decade characterised best by the show Seinfeld, which I loved, a show which billed itself as a show about nothing. This was, of course, misdirection, as the show was an extremely sharp commentary about the ambiguities that occur when societal expectations of manners and behaviour are unclear, or have broken down. And yet, it's extremely hard to imagine Seinfeld working well in a post-September 11th world, when things suddenly became serious. It's not for nothing that Billy Domineau's spec script of the Seinfeld September 11th episode was a huge hit, inasmuch as it insisted on the same irreverence about a topic that is still considered very serious in America. But it's also no coincidence that the spec script was only written in 2016, a time when the events of September 11th were sufficiently far in the past, and no new similarly large and shocking events had been forthcoming, such that people could laugh about this stuff, even in a "can you believe people are making light of this?" kind of way.
Indeed, to me the Current Year feels a lot like the 1990s. Even the crypocurrency boom of 2017 reminded me a lot of the internet boom in 1998. Neither could have taken place in an environment of 10% unemployment like in 2009. And yet, at the time, the 1990s problems felt like real problems. There seems to be something in human nature that laments boredom above everything else, and will raise small problems to the level of large problems if none really exist. In 1999, there were large violent protests in Seattle about... the World Trade Organization. Just think about that. Can you imagine getting in a brawl with the cops today about trade policy?
Because the thing that makes the Current Year even more unnoticed as a pretty good era is the fact that, unlike the Cold War, the end of the previous era was never really announced. On the current trajectory, unless the other shoe drops and there's another major terrorist strike on America, historians of the future will probably view the matter as being that Al Qaeda only really had one big hit in them, before law enforcement and the CIA figured out they needed to throw gigantic resources at infiltrating and destroying them. After that, all that was left was "lone wolf" small scale attacks that, while tragic and attention-grabbing at the time, eventually faded into the background. Once upon a time, I remember wondering seriously about whether moving to New York might mean you'd die in a smuggled nuke attack. I don't get the feeling people worry about this much any more.
This doesn't mean that America doesn't have problems. Far from it. The late stage US empire can't have enough children to sustain itself, and is both aging and replacing itself with third world immigrants. Meanwhile, the increasing rhetorical hostility to white Americans may yet be seen as the precursor to actual rising violence, much like in South Africa. For now, the main effect seems to be the white death, as lower class whites in flyover country kill themselves with opioids, alcohol and suicide.
But these are the grinding, endemic problems of a society that seems to be in decline. They may be very important, but like anything ongoing, they don't seem to present the impression that if they are not solved immediately (as in, this week or this month) then we are forever doomed. The Cuban missile crisis is an urgent problem. Opioids are merely a very serious problem. Societies, like Hemingway quipped about individuals, go bankrupt in two ways - gradually, then suddenly. At the moment, we seem to be in the "gradually" phase. For people who start out with a lot of money, parts of the "gradually" phase are likely to be quite a bit of fun. In many ways, this is exactly the problem. The "suddenly" phase, however, is never fun.
The bad news, therefore, is that we really are living in clown world.
The other news, which I can't tell whether is good or bad, is the following: when serious and immediate problems strike again, as they inevitably will, you will actually miss clown world.
daedal June 19, 2019 at 6:10 PM
A timely message to keep a wider perspective on these things.
This reminds me of Vox Day admonishing those on the (actual) right from descending into nihilism, apathy or despair. We too easily take the symptoms of descent as signs of the end itself. And even if we do suffer an end of sorts, a cataclysm in the biblical sense, whose to say what golden age may follow? Maybe this is little solace to those individuals who must live through said cataclysm, but if anything characterizes the 'right' in my view, its that we give precedence to that which is higher than ourselves.
As for the financial crisis, I would actually like your perspective on the big picture. (I have never been inclined nor I suspect able, to understand economics). Most of the people I do trust on the matter, however, seem to be of the opinion that the 'fix' (QE, bailouts etc), was a band-aid on a cancer that we should have painfully excised at the time, for when it crashes again it will be catastrophic. Would you say the global economy is also in its 'gradually' phase?
Edit: PS. As frustrating as it is that these ideas can take such tenacious hold on our psyche, the beauty of those graphs is that it highlights the ephemeral nature of these things; that they have no or little bearing on actual reality, and that they can disappear from a culture a quickly as they arose.
Brooks June 30, 2019 at 7:38 PM
Nice article as well as whole site.Thanks.


Now Sony's striking back with a couple of interesting new e-readers–including one called the Reader Pocket Edition (seen at left) that has a five-inch e-ink screen and a $199 pricetag, $100 less than the Kindle 2. Its very name pitches it as being pocketable; I haven't seen one in person, but I'm guessing that the five-inch display means it'll be a tight fit in a shirt pocket. (The pocket-filling iPhone has a 3.5-inch screen).
I'll be intrigued to see if a relatively cheap, relatively small e-reader will appeal to folks who haven't splurged on a Kindle. It's true that iPhones and iPods Touch already make pretty pleasing e-readers thanks to apps like Kindle for iPhone and Eucalyptus, but the Pocket Edition's screen is larger and its E-Ink display should let it run for days on a charge.
Sony is also announcing the Reader Touch Edition (at right), a touchscreen model which matches the Kindle's six-inch screen and $299 price, but doesn't have wireless. (Sony told ZDnet that it's working on a wireless device.) It's also matching Amazon's price of $9.99 for bestsellers and new releases–down from $11.99–and touting its million-book library, although that figure includes a lotta public-domain tomes from Google.
People keep treating the Plastic Logic reader as the Kindle's principal rival, and maybe it will be, once it stops being vaporous (it's due sometime next year). For now, though, it's really an Amazon-Sony battle–and it's nice to see Sony coming back for more.
Are you any more interested in a $199 five-inch Sony e-reader (sans wireless) than in a $299 six-inch Amazon one?
I bought a PRS-505 — the previous version of sans-touchscreen sans-wireless ebook-reader from Sony. I really liked it, until the screen broke from light pressure from something else in my backpack, despite being in it's protective pleather case.
I won't be buying another ebook reader from anyone until they're bloody cheap — the screens are just too damn fragile!


text:
Tristan Grimbert
CEO and President, EDF
Tristan Grimbert leads EDF Renewables' activities throughout North America overseeing three primary business lines: Grid-Scale Power, Asset Optimization, and Distributed Solutions. With 16 gigawatts (GW) of renewable projects developed and 10 GW of projects under service contracts, the company is dedicated in its mission to deliver renewable solutions to lead the transition to a sustainable energy future, through the development, generation, operations and maintenance of utility, commercial, and distributed generation renewable energy projects.
His tenure began in 2004 as President and Chief Operating Officer. He was appointed Chief Executive Officer in July 2008 and later that same year was named CEO of both the Canada and Mexico subsidiaries, leading the expansion into both countries from the North American headquarters in San Diego, California. Under Mr. Grimbert's leadership, North American operations have experienced significant growth, emerging as one of the most respected and successful renewable energy companies in the industry.
Mr. Grimbert has been instrumental in the growth of the company; overseeing a fourteen-fold increase in revenues since 2004. The U.S. portfolio consists of 13.3 GW of developed projects. The company launched project development in Canada in 2007, and today, EDF Renewables Canada boasts 1.9 GW of wind and solar in development or operation. Mexico development activities commenced in 2010, which now has over 800 megawatts (MW) of wind and solar capacity in development or operation. In addition, EDF Renewables acquired Own Energy and groSolar, and made strategic investments in Nuuve and Entersolar. In 2018, EDF Renewables North America invested in a 2.5 GW offshore wind lease and has committed substantial resources to expand its capabilities to develop and build offshore wind along the eastern seaboard of the United States.
Mr. Grimbert is a board member of EDF Inc., the holding company encompassing all other EDF entities in North America. He also served as the 2017-2018 Chairman of the board of directors for the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA).
Mr. Grimbert's career began in sales and international consultancy. He is a graduate of Institut National Agronomique Paris Grignon and holds a management degree from Insead. He spent seven years prior to EDF Renewables as President and CEO of Mensi SA, a wholly-owned subsidiary of EDF, and later with Trimble Navigation Limited.
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Join me today at 2pm ET for a Tweetchat surrounding the live broadcast of OPENForum's Q and A with Karen Mills, Administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration. Small business owners posed questions for Mills and OPENForum's Scott Roen will moderate the discussion.
In light of the recent Small Business Jobs Bill, tight lending environment, and impending changes to how small businesses deal with health care, I thought it might be interesting to hang out with some other small business owners to chat live on Twitter during the event.
1) Bookmark this page – http://openforum.com/whitehouse – and fire it up at 1pm CT today in a browser window.
Here are two recent articles on the Jobs Bill that I found interesting.
FYI – I contribute to OPENForum as a blogger, but this discussion is not sponsored in any way by AMEX. I just thought it might be useful.


Russian World Cup match ball 'Telstar 18' criticized by goalies. March. 26, 2018 07:56. by Jong-Koo Yang yjongk@donga.com.
World famous goalies have criticized the 2018 World Cup official match ball "Adidas Telstar 18," saying it is difficult for them to tell the distance (from the ball).
Adidas, a world leading sports brand and official sponsor of football's world governing body FIFA, upgraded the "original" Telstar, the official game ball of the 1970 World Cup in Mexico, and unveiled the Telstar 18 for the first time late last year.
Past official World Cup match balls were welcomed by strikers because their makers would design the balls to generate lots of goals. However, goalies often criticized them. The same holds true with the new official ball for this year's event.


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Topic: Fake News...
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Author Topic: Fake News... (Read 40148 times)
Metron2267
Re: Fake News...
ItsOver
Quote from: Metron2267 on December 26, 2018, 11:54:02 AM
I think I see a trend.
Their tinkering was also responsible for the Internet bubble bursting under Clinton, which lead to the Clinton slow down in 2000. The Bush tax cut erased that. And despite 911 the economy boomed until 2006. What happened in 2006 you ask? Democrats took control of the house and senate. We're seeing the same effect of their anti business, anti economic growth, anti American worker policy hammer the stock market already. The American people know exactly what to expect from the demokkkrat party, nothing.
All true, the Fed and their Euro-bankster masters have been playing this game since Jekyll Island, and no one ever seems to address it, save for the Pauls. remember when (pick a time) the Dems decided Lyndon Larouche was public enemy #1?
http://www.thepeoplesvoice.org/TPV3/Voices.php/2009/09/06/larouche-crimes-of-the-fed-cannot-be-bur
Wall Street-allied Democrats are reportedly frantic to sabotage Congressional passage of H.R. 1207, the Federal Reserve Transparency Act of 2009, which would mandate a Government Accountability Office (GAO) audit of the Fed's lending practices, its relations with foreign central banks and other foreign financial institutions. H.R. 1207, introduced by Rep. Ron Paul (R-Tex.), has been co-sponsored by more than 300 members of the House of Representatives, thus assuring its passage, and mandating that it be brought to a floor vote. A parallel Senate bill, the Federal Reserve Sunshine Act of 2009, has been introduced by Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) and has 23 co-sponsors so far.
There is also panic at the White House, the Fed and on Wall Street, over the Aug. 24, 2009 ruling by Chief Judge Loretta Preska, of the Federal District Court for the Southern District of New York, ordering the Federal Reserve to disclose documentation of its expanded lending and other interventions in 2007 and 2008, particularly around the sale of Bear Stearns to JP Morgan Chase. The order came in a Freedom of Information Act lawsuit, brought by Bloomberg LP against the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, after two Bloomberg News reporters were denied access to Fed documents on the government-subsidized takeover.
LaRouche minced no words in warning about the consequences of a successful cover-up, including the sabotage of the Fed audit bills now before Congress. "The issue is: The system will be blown out if this information is concealed. You cannot bury this under a rug. The American people have both the right, and the urgent need to know what has been done with their tax dollars. Only by unburying the evidence can you save the U.S.A." LaRouche continued, "You cannot conceal the truth. Whatever the price, the full disclosure must be brought to the public. The American people must know the full extent of the folly of the Bush and Obama presidencies. If they kill the Paul and Sanders bills behind closed doors, such suppression of the information will be tantamount to treason."
Quote from: Gd5150 on December 26, 2018, 12:14:41 PM
But the DemonRats offer so much, like socialized misery for the masses! Crumbs for everyone!
Invalid Tweet ID
Something is up.
1/6. Obama tweets a picture from 2014 and passes it off as a 2018 Christmas tweet
NSFW Anon Lack of Christmas messages from these big players for 2018 (QRV)
submitted 5.5 hours ago by 2935220?
Lack of Christmas messages from these big players for 2018: Obama's Christmas pic from 2014
Hillary from years ago, maybe when she was still Sec
GW Bush twitter acct on lockdown, none from Laura
Podesta none, last tweet 12/19
Comey none, last tweet 12/23
Brennan none, last tweet 12/22
Biden none, last 12/21
Debbie Wasserman Schultz none, last tweet 12/21
Michelle Obama none, last tweet 12/19
Maxine Waters none from official acct, last tweet 12/14….personal last tweet 10/22
Why all the silence on Christmas? Hmmmmmmmmmm, might git mo' soon.
https://voat.co/v/QRV/2935220
Quote from: Metron2267 on December 26, 2018, 12:58:28 PM
Sounds like Santa delivered to lots of good little girls and boys.
Limit to v/QRV
Posted by: 2934481?
NSFW Anon If nothing is happening, Why are there so many civilian job opennings at GTMO, a facility that supposedly only has 17 detainees? (QRV)
submitted 21 hours ago by 2934481?
https://www.navymwrguantanamobay.com/jobs
https://www.simplyhired.com/search?q=guantanamo+bay+cuba&job=ssifRbj5_I44l6awrMD0F8eUlyjG_ONamv3HyK8uk12YvMLUcVM1lQ
Also a Battalion of MP's are stationed on GTMO, probably 400 - 500 soldiers.
https://qmap.pub/read/459
White Stringer
!UW.yye1fxo
25 Dec 2017 - 1:57:38 PM
10, [10-9]
Operational_window(5-6)_FDeltaC25-26
Secured.
Floor is yours.
Twitter FW_
Twitter [kill_rogue]
CONF_WHITE_WHITE_
https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=3&v=npX801xLSFY
FAKE NEWS!
Deja Q...
We're getting new submissions every 30 seconds. Every member of the media who defamed, slandered, and doxxed the #CovingtonBoys on Twitter will be served.
Each and every tweet will be archived and turned over to the students' legal counsel. pic.twitter.com/nk4DkQ7AmK
— CJ Pearson (@thecjpearson) January 20, 2019
CJ Pearson
@thecjpearson
Follow Follow @thecjpearson
We're getting new submissions every 30 seconds. Every member of the media who defamed, slandered, and doxxed the #CovingtonBoys on Twitter will be served.
Each and every tweet will be archived and turned over to the students' legal counsel.
Screen Shot 2019-01-21 at 10.56.01 AM.png (167.85 kB, 637x559 - viewed 56 times.)
Bloomberg admits that they use the fake news media outlets to promote their politics and pledges to use his "news" companies and data analytics to defeat Trump.
https://www.newsbusters.org/blogs/business/julia-seymour/2019/01/31/atlantic-highlights-bloombergs-plan-crush-trump-big-data
https://www.theatlantic.com/politics/archive/2019/01/bloomberg-building-data-organization-crush-trump/581710/
https://www.npr.org/2019/02/20/696217158/u-s-hate-groups-rose-sharply-in-recent-years-watchdog-group-reports
Hate group count hits 20-year high amid rise in white supremacy, report says
the Southern Poverty Law Center
Psychological projection is a defence mechanism in which the human ego defends itself against unconscious impulses or qualities by denying their existence in themselves while attributing them to others. For example, a person who is habitually rude may constantly accuse other people of being rude. Wikipedia
A hatch left open on the INS Arihant lead to saltwater flooding the propulsion area, rendering the $2.9 billion submarine inoperative.
Sure, right, yeah. No doubt.
Quality BBC journalism:
Beautiful game? The day I had to watch a sport I hate
https://www.bbc.com/news/stories-48397671
Makes me feel sorry for the husband and ripped off by the licence fee.
https://youtu.be/p3tUqRBiMVo?t=109
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Dombi Imréné (Debrecen, 1969. augusztus 24. –) magyar politikus, Püspökladány polgármestere. 2006-2014 között választott önkormányzati képviselő, 2010 és 2011 között alpolgármester, 2011 és 2019 között Püspökladány város polgármestere. 2011 és 2019 között helyi Fidesz-frakció elnöke, a Hajdú-Bihar Megyei Önkormányzat képviselője.

Életrajza

Gyermekkora
Szél Lajos mezőgazdász és Kovács Eszter könyvelő gyermekeként született Szél Katalin néven Debrecenben, 1969. augusztus 24-én. Püspökladányi felmenői mind református vallásúak voltak.

Szülei kiskorában elváltak, de ő ezt követően is Püspökladányban maradt, édesanyjával. Hároméves korától Kövesi József többszörös magyar bajnok birkózó, a Püspökladányi Birkózó Szakosztály egykori vezetője volt a nevelőapja.

Tanulmányai, munkássága
A Zója Általános Iskolába járt elemibe, majd 1983-ban beiratkozott a Karacs Ferenc Gimnáziumba, ahol érettségijét szerezte.

Ezt követően képesített könyvelői, vállalati tervezői, statisztikusi képesítésekre tett szert, valamint angol nyelvvizsgát szerzett.

2007-ben a Nemzeti Bankárképzőben értékpapír és tőzsdei jogi vizsgát tett.

1987-től a K&H ZRT befektetési tanácsadójaként dolgozott, ahonnan politikai tevékenysége miatt távozott 2011-ben, amikor Püspökladány város polgármesterének választották.

Politikai karrierje 2006-ban kezdődött. 2011-ben az Arnóth Sándor halála miatt kiírt időközi választáson lett a város polgármestere, ezt a címét 2014-ben megvédte.

Politikai pályafutása
 2006–2010 között választott önkormányzati képviselő.
 2010–2014 között választott önkormányzati képviselő.
 2010–2011 alpolgármester.
 2011–2019 polgármester.
 2011-től a Sárréti Kistérségi Társulás elnöke.
 2011-től a püspökladányi Fidesz-csoport elnöke.
 2014-től a Hajdú-Bihar Megyei Önkormányzat képviselője.

Bizottságai
 Pénzügyi és Ügyrendi Bizottság
 Környezetvédelmi és Mezőgazdasági Bizottság

Családja
Férjével, Dombi Imrével 1989 óta élnek boldog házasságban. Egy gyermekük van, Katalin.

Sógora a magyar bajnok labdarúgó, Dombi Tibor.

Díjak, elismerések

Nevéhez köthető

Jegyzetek

Források
 https://www.facebook.com/Dombi-Imr%C3%A9n%C3%A9-373553986178848/

1969-ben született személyek
Élő személyek
Magyarországi polgármesterek
Fidesz-tagok
Püspökladányiak

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


One of the intensely appealing things about the current app economy is the sense we get of kaizen from the aps we're downloading – constant, consistent improvement in their features and value propositions.
If we opt in early, we get to see the growth, the longer we use an application. If we opt in late, we get to see a mature version of the thing we've heard so much about – often at the same price, as the early adopters finance the enjoyment of the majority.
In this way, application developers can call every choice they make the right choice. Even if a feature fails, or is unpopular, under this model, it counts as an experiment rather than an accomplishment; and experiments only fail if you learn nothing from the doing of them.
What I always wonder is why we haven't applied this theorem to our lives yet in a conscious way?
I've spent the past month working toward getting back in shape. I've busted my knee twice, damaged my shoulders by pushing too hard on a workout, and been out of commission with delayed onset muscle pain for nearly a week. I've dug out my weights, started eating somewhat differently, and modified my sleep schedule to accommodate for the occasional first-thing-in-the-morning run. It's been difficult, and injury is not my favorite thing in the world.
But I'm continuing to work at it – why? Because I believe in kaizen as a personal ideal as well as a working ideal.
It's an iteration process. Every time I make a change, run a little faster, or work a little harder, I mark the results and adjust my course. I make optimization moves – not just to my own process, such as finding the highest-energy points in the day at which to work out, but also finding better routes walking to the office (and shaving 10 extraneous minutes off the trip in the process).
Because it's an awareness trap. By not paying attention to when I hit the milestone – when Ian 2.0, or 3.0 appears – I'm making the work of getting each maintenance release out far more easy.
We consider so many things by their end results; weight loss goals, study for degrees, getting that black belt, learning Esperanto, and so on. These goals are ambitious for a reason – they make us want to exercise our need to accomplish, to build ambition toward a goal. However, I'd argue that as we divide our attention more, we're losing the ability to maintain the salience of these large goals in the face of all the many small steps it takes to achieve them.
What would happen if, instead of broad goals, we began to make the work of improving – the process of kaizen – a central part of our personal planning?
I've used the Genesis Framework from StudioPress as the basis for my blog for a couple of months now, and am about to finish the fourth site I've developed on it. I need to say this: The framework rocks. Everything from the format, to the support from StudioPress, to helpful tools people have published have helped me cut down my modification and theme building time significantly.
Genesis is slick. Genesis is smooth. And, above all, it doesn't always look the same – even when you're using the same elements for design.
Here are the sites I've now got going, built on either Genesis itself, or one of its child themes.
Yes. I like blue. Don't judge me.
Why did I switch from Standard Theme to Genesis Framework?
SEO options – unless you're using plugins, it's the bee's knees. Seriously – beyond just being able to designate title and meta descriptions, Genesis allows for built in redirects, which is great for link blogs.
Ease of design – Spending a lot of time building sites isn't my goal – I want to get decent looking sites up quickly, so I can start filling them in with content.
Ease of modification – The above being said, I want to be able to iterate my work quickly. If there's a feature I want to add, or a design change I want to make, I want to be able to make it on the fly. Genesis allows for that.
Updates and notifications – Really. What other theme tells you, on its own, when it's ready to get upgraded?
The Showcase – totally for bragging rights. There are a lot of awesome examples in the SutioPress showcase of well-built Genesis framework powered websites. Two – and soon, I hope, three – of mine are there.
Genesis Framework can help wordpress become a proper CMS very swiftly.
Many of StudioPress' turn-key themes make developing non-standard blogs a breeze. One of the troubles most people see with using WordPress in general is that so many WP-based websites look… Well, like WordPress websites. Getting away from the usual columned layout, and adding some flair is one of the many places where Genesis is a viking.
Check Genesis Framework out – it's well worth it if you spend a lot of time working with wordpress.
Notes From #blogchat – Sidebar Special!
Tonight's #blogchat was set on managing and maximizing sidebars!
Personal note; no one's appreciated my fun ajax-based sidebar at all – I may end up removing it after all.
Mack Collier made a good point about sidebars: if we accept them as global metadata carriers, they need to reflect the motivation of the blog itself. Monetized blogs are expected to have ads, archival blogs are expected to have massive navigation capabilities. Think of who you're writing for – friends? Business? Money? Information?
Mack also made another point – widgets from external services increase load times drastically. Consider this when adding your seventh or eighth "Fan This" box.
I agree – this if nothing else will be forcing me to change my current theme.
I asked about 2/3 column testing and left or right handed layouts. @JDEbberly suggested it would make a good topic – I may write about some wireframing things later. @jfavreau suggested hir use of 3-column layouts reduced usability.
Well-designed sidebars act as access points to the archive of the blog – proper cataloguing considerations need to be taken.
@WaynesBNP uses WP Greet Box to make sure the subscribe button is always visible to new visitors.
This led to the great Breath of Inspiration for the night – sidebars really must be global metadata. What you put there is a very good indicator of how you see the reader moving around your space.
This means that post- or page-specific metadata needs its own place, and that has to be respected as well. Author names, categorization, tagging, etc – even related posts, are very important for archival quality Information architecture is a bigger deal than most people give credit for. @erinloechner mentioned, to this point, that related posts in a post's meta space are a good idea, and can do a far better job than tag clouds.
On that note, tag clouds are so 2008. Give them their own page, with your blogroll, or get rid of both entirely.
What do you think? Are you paying enough attention to the Table of Connections that is your sidebar?
Transcript for the night from WTHashtag, courtesy of Mack Collier.
Also – make sure you join the #blogchat Group on LinkedIn!
this week's #Blogchat Participants' List courtesy of Ksenia Coffman.
Image by solo, with others.
Those who believe it's pointless, and those who document their work.
Those who do not document don't understand it's necessity. If you know the code, they may think, then why do you need cues as to its use? How useful are witty comments in haiku form to getting the darn job done?
How utilitarian. But, the perspective does have its merits. It speaks to knowing your job, knowing your tools and, above all, doing comprehensive and elegant work.
On the other hand, you have the developers and designers who love to document. This ranges from simple cases such as building a readme.txt for every module they build – all the way up to those who create ascii art from their functional notes. It's fairly varied, because there are no real conventions for software documentation, especially in open source.
And it's not just in software. Right down to html structure in websites and override hierarchies in CSS files – documentation can be more than just thorough, it can also be elegant.
Documentation may seem frivolous to some, but the point is clear: you need to know where you've been to know where you're going. What happens to your elegant programming if you disappear, or if someone else takes it over? Good documentation can prevent backward engineering, as well as allowing for more efficient forking, revisioning, and repetitive versioning.
By and large, I've seen graphic designers like documentation less than functional or application developers. The group I'm seeing lean toward documentation more and more, however, are user experience designers. People building user interfaces, designing the workflows for web sites and applications.
There are benefits to both theories – good documentation can be as helpful as elegant, minimalist code structure. However, as with so many other ventures, coding with future versions in mind is never a bad idea.


text:
Amazing Belgium
Travel destinations and tips in Belgium. Discover unforgettable Belgians.
The watergate of Ghent
By the end of the 15th century the people of Ghent built a reinforced water gate with a lock. This historic building is now known as "Rabot", a word that may be derived from the French "rabattre" and that can be translated as "lowering the locks". The enforced lock was built in honour of the victory of the people of Ghent against the army of the German emperor.
The original Rabot building consisted of two towers, between which the lockman's house was built. The house was later partially broken down during roadworks. Over the centuries, the 'Rabot' lock building served as military reinforcement, an ice cellar, a toll house and a electrical cabin. Today it functions as a socio-cultural exposition hall and meeting place.
The Rabot can also be hired for meetings, guided visits, round table talks, receptions, lunches, dinners and private parties. The Rabot features a fitted kitchen, 2 toilets, an entrance hall with access to the towers, a reception area and a bar.
You can find the watergate or Rabot building at this address: Opgeëistenlaan 1, Ghent.
How the Belgians founded New York
In order to avoid any confusion in this story, it is important to know that in the sixteenth century, the Netherlands covered a part of North of France and Lorraine, Belgium, Luxembourg and the present Netherlands. Its inhabitants were called the Belgians, and the maps represented the country in the shape of a lion: the "Leo Belgicus". Besides, numerous maps from the sixteenth century showed this territory under the name of Belgium. The latter failed into disuse for the benefit of the Netherlands, and only reappeared in 1789 on the occasion of the first Belgian revolution. In 1831 Belgium became an independent country. Today Belgium is a lot smaller and is divided into two big regions mostly based on the language they speak in that particular region. In the north there is Flanders where they speak Flemish (Dutch) and in the south there is the Walloon part where they speak French. Almost in the center and between the two parts is the region of the capital Bru
A secret medieval street in Antwerp
The 'Vlaeykensgang' is a unique small street in the center of Antwerp. Hidden between two busy Antwerp streets and close to the Cathedral. This medieval times street can easily be walked past unnoticed. Behind its metre-wide entrance there is a oasis. A step into the passage with its quiet courtyards transports visitors back in time, back to the 15th and 16th century. Picture by Harry Fabel Previously, the street was the domain of shoemakers, who had to sound the alarm bell of the Cathedral, also some of the poorest people of the city lived in that very small street. Now you will find antique shops, art galleries and an exclusive restaurant, Sir Anthony Van Dyck. There is a subdued atmosphere and the street is a popular place to listen to the cathedrals summer carillon concerts. At its heart you find the Axel Vervoordt Gallery. Picture by Harry Fabel The "Vlaeykensgang" exists as a key piece of Antwerp's architectural and sociological history, offering
The largest chocolate factory in the world is in Belgium
The largest chocolate factory in the world is located in Wieze, Belgium. Barry Callebaut produces around 270,000 tonnes a year, from cocoa bean to chocolate, making it the largest chocolate supplier in the world. Picture by Pixabay In Wieze you will also find the first of the seventeen Chocolate Academy centers that have since been distributed all over the world. A completely new building was recently opened, making the Chocolate Academy center in Wieze the largest center in the world. Picture by Pixabay The Belgian chocolate sector exports its quality chocolate to the entire world. Two thirds of both the industrial chocolate and the end products are exported abroad. That's because there is a Belgian chocolate code developed in 2007. The Belgian chocolate code must ensure that the term 'Belgian chocolate' is only used for chocolate that actually comes from Belgium.


When I was planning my preaching schedule for the fall I was not aware yet that homecoming was always the third Sunday of September. I know now and next year I hope we can have a guest preacher come in maybe along with some great music as well. Today though we will be sticking with this sermon series entitled 3 Simple Rules. This is a three week look into the General Rules of the United Methodist Church which are; Do No Harm, Do Good and Stay in Love with God.
Last week we talked about do no harm. I mentioned that doing harm is reactive, it is how we interact with the people we come in contact with on a daily basis. If we are to live out the calling God has in our lives then we have to learn to react to life, to people, to situations by first doing no harm. It can be a hard concept to wrap our heads around and the live out. The rules sound easy, but like I mentioned last week, it takes a deep, mature and solid faith to follow it daily. That is the same thing with this week's rule, do good.
It sounds so simple it is almost silly, do good. But then you hear a quote that many people attribute to John Wesley, the founder of our denomination, "Do all the good you can, By all the means you can, In all the ways you can, In all the places you can, At all the times you can, To all the people you can, As long as ever you can." Well then that just gets a little more complicated then doesn't it.
Where the first rule, Do No Harm, is a reactive stance on life, the second rule is proactive. To do good means that we do not wait to do good, it should be something that flows out of us naturally and consistently as followers of Christ. We see that in the scripture passages I read today. In the John text Jesus says, "As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." Jesus is saying that if we are to be his followers, if we are going to go through the process of sanctification which makes us more Christ-like, then we will have to love like he loves. Our love for our neighbors should lead us into life and doing no harm should be how we react to life.
We are created for this love. It is something that is imbedded deep within us that needs to come out. We have to learn to understand that we are created to love. The Ephesians text shows us that because in verse 10 it states "For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." God has created us in his image and placed in our DNA the ability and desire to love like he loves.
Growing up I had a hard time swallowing meat. Some of the tougher meats like pork chops and steak I would chew and chew and chew but never swallow. I would fake having to go to the bathroom sixty times during dinner and somehow miraculously all that meat that I had packed into my cheeks was gone when I returned to the table. My napkins were about twelve pounds heavier at the end of the meals with all the meat I tried to hide in there. My parents would get so frustrated with me but eventually I grew out of it. Recently I have noticed a trend in our daughter, Campbell. My parents were over this week and we had some of those steamed whole green beans. These are a little tougher than the cut green beans tend to be. Campbell had finished most of her meal but she still had some beans left on her plate. We encouraged her to eat them and she took a bite or two. Then I look over and she is still chewing and chewing and chewing. I asked her to show me the beans and she opened her mouth and showed me a wad of mashed up green beans packed into her cheeks. My dad busts out laughing and I realize that this apple didn't fall far from the tree.
I am sure there are moments when you have looked at your children or your grand-children and you stopped dead in your tracks because they were doing something that is just like you. They had a reaction, they said something in a certain way or gave you a look and you knew that it had to be your DNS shinning through. I wonder if God has those moments with us. I wonder if God sees us doing good works and he sees himself in them? I wonder when we are living out our faith by doing no harm and doing good if God smiles because he knows we are finally getting it and his image is shining through us in those moments.
We have to be careful though. There is an idea out there that we can earn our way to God's love through good works. If we simply pile up more good works verses our bad works then we will be okay when we die. But that is not true. The good works we do does not earn God's love but is an outpouring of the love that God has for us.
Did you all get that, I want to make sure that part is very clear. As the Ephesian's text starts off, "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God – not by works, so that no one can boast." We receive salvation; we receive justifying grace; through the free, unmerited, unearned grace of God. It is not something we can earn if we simply do a check list of things. Salvation is free for all. Where good works come in, is how we live out this free gift we are given. Once we know that we are loved by God and crave to be like his son, good works flow out of that. We do not do good works because we want to earn God's love but we do good works because we are loved. It is out of our faith and our love for God and our neighbor that good works should flow freely out of us.
But there are some things you have to give up in order to do these good works like God wants us to. We have to give up control. We give up control because God doesn't define who good works should be for. His love is for everyone and so our love, our doing good, should be for everyone. It is easy to do good for those who look like us, act like us, and think like us. It gets much harder when we are pushed to do good to those who despise us, don't think anything like us, and look and act nothing like us. Then doing good becomes really hard. It becomes really hard because we no longer have control over who gets the good works. We cannot pick and choose and we love to pick and choose. But God's love is for all and God chooses us to be the tools to share that love with the world, so we have to learn to relinquish control and do good to everyone.
At our culture's core we are a WIFM culture. WIFM stands for What's In it For Me. We want to know the purpose and guarantees of doing good before we do them. If I help this person out will that person help me out later? We are comfortable doing good within a certain predetermined boundary that we agree to because then we are not pushed beyond our comfort zones. We tend to do good as long as we can control it and we can figure out how we can benefit from that act of love.
The truth is that to do good is a direct command from Christ and a serious challenge to all those who seek to follow him. Doing good can "not be limited to those like me and those who like me," it has to be for everyone. We should not have to wait to see if a cause or a person is worthy, it should flow naturally out of our faith in the one who came to save us and them.
But how do we get to a place where we don't put ourselves first and learn to live as Christ lived? The best way to do that is to figure out your true-self. I know that sounded very Oprah didn't it. But we are all created by God and we all have the image of God in us. The good news is though we are all different and have different talents, gifts, and abilities. What I am good at is not what you may be good at and what you are good at I may be horrible at. God has created us this way so that as we work together we do the best work possible. As we find out what our gifts, talents and abilities are we learn how we can do the best good in this world. When we find our God created self and share that with others, God's love and good works are done. Then it doesn't seem like work, because it flows naturally out of our faith in God and how God created us.


Should I replace or repair my roof before going solar?
There are three main factors to consider -- age, condition and cost.
Age: If your roof is less than 12 to 15 years old, it's probably fine.
Condition: Check for red flags, both inside and out.
Cost: The cost of repairing or replacing a roof varies depending on the material of the roof surface and where you live. Weather, such as snow load or rain amount, may be a factor in determining replacement cost.
A general rule of thumb is if your roof needs to be replaced within five years, you should consider doing it before installing solar panels. Removing and reinstalling solar panels to replace the roof generally come with an extra cost. This can be prevented if you repair the roof prior to installing your solar system.
What components make up a solar system?
There are three main components to a solar system: panels, inverters and meters.
Solar panels generate Direct Current (DC). But almost everything you use in your house – TV, computer, refrigerator and such – runs on Alternating Current (AC). That's why solar systems require an inverter. Inverters convert DC power generated by solar panels into AC power that fuels your house. If allowed by your utility, excess AC energy can be fed back into your local grid.
Solar systems utilize two types of meters. Your solar power company will provide a solar meter to collect and upload your system's production data. Your utility company will provide a net meter to measure the energy you consume and, in applicable markets, the energy you send back to the electric grid. This give-and-take relationship between your solar system and the utility grid is called net metering.
In addition to the three main components, some systems may also include a battery storage system. By adding a battery, your system will power your home during the day and send excess energy to the battery to be used at night. Unlike solar-only systems, it will continue producing and storing energy during a power outage when the electric grid is down so you can keep your most needed lights and appliances on.
The amount of power available during a power outage is limited, depending on the loads connected and the customer usage during a power outage.
What happens at night or when it's cloudy outside?
Solar systems convert sunlight into energy, so you definitely need the sun's rays to make that happen. Weather conditions, the season of the year and time of day all have an impact on how much energy your system generates. On cloudy or foggy days when your production is less, or at night when your system isn't producing at all, your home will be powered by energy from the electric grid. Interconnection of your system to the grid makes this possible.
What if my solar system generates more energy than I am currently using?
There are a few exceptions, however. For example, customers in states that have placed a cap on net metering may be limited in the amount of energy they can export to the grid, as well as any credit received for it. In addition, homeowners whose solar systems have a battery component are able to store excess energy for future use when their systems aren't generating power, rather than export it to the grid.
*Sunnova makes no guarantees regarding credit for net energy exported to the electric grid, and any credit provided (now or in the future) is subject to change or termination by executive, legislative or regulatory action.
What is net metering, and how does it affect my utility bill?
Your solar system will provide most of the power your home needs. During cloudy or foggy days, there will be low production and at night, the system won't produce energy. If you have a battery connected to your solar system, you may receive power from it when your system is not producing; thereby reducing the amount of power you need from the grid.
However, whether you have a battery or not, your system will be connected to your utility company's electric grid to supply electricity during the times your system isn't producing enough on its own or the battery is depleted. This is known as interconnection, and it allows for the bidirectional transmission of energy between your home and the electric grid.
Net metering is the concept of measuring both the energy you receive from the grid, as well as any excess energy your system produces and sends back to it1. Your utility company will supply your net meter to keep track of what you consume from and export to the grid. You may receive credit for exported energy to help offset the cost of what you consume.
Net metering is not available in all markets. We recommend you check your local utility.
1. Your electricity needs will vary based on your usage, the energy efficiency of your home and other factors. Your solar system's production will vary based on weather and other factors. Sunnova makes no guarantees regarding credit for net energy exported to the electric grid, and any credit provided (now or in the future) is subject to change or termination by executive, legislative or regulatory action.
Your Sunnova solar or solar + battery system is grid-tied, which means it is connected to the electric grid. A solar-only system cannot operate independently of the electric grid and will shut down when the grid isn't working. This means you won't have any power for your home during a grid outage.
This is normally to keep the line workers safe when doing repair work on the grid since there can't be any live power flowing through the lines. Solar-only systems can't produce any energy.
Unlike solar-only systems, a solar + battery system will continue producing and storing energy during a power outage, when the electric grid is down, so you can keep your most needed lights and appliances on. Visit our Sunnova SunSafeTM page to learn more about our solar + battery technology.
Will my solar panels last longer than my roof?
The average life expectancy of a roof varies greatly depending on what your roof is made of and the climate you live in, so it could be anywhere from 12-30 years. Residential solar panels typically come with a warranty of 20-25 years, but panels can last more than 40 years.
Solar panels are built to survive the elements, including hurricane-force winds, high-speed hail, and heavy snow and rain. Even at the end of 25 years, solar panels usually maintain at least 80% efficiency.
Will solar panels damage my roof or cause leaks?
A racking system mounts the panels, and any gaps resulting from installation are sealed. Coverings, such as flashing, may be required. The integrity of your roof will be as preserved as it was before installation.
However, in the event that the installation of the solar panels causes any leaks or damage to your roof, Sunnova will work with our installation partners to ensure that all repairs are made according to our roof warranty.
Will the weight of the panels be too much for my roof?
Solar panels contain solar cells. Most solar cells are made of some form of silicon. Panels also contain metal conductor strips and antireflective coating. Wiring and hardware to attach panels to the roof are also part of your entire solar system. All of these components do not add an unbearable weight load to your roof.
Today's solar panels don't weigh much at all -- typically about four pounds per square foot.
That being said, if your roof is damaged or in disrepair before installation, it doesn't take much additional weight to cause cracks or leaks.
How Can I tell if my system is operating at an optimal level? How can I monitor my production?
You can monitor your solar system's production in the "Monitoring" section of the MySunnova customer portal. Please keep in mind that the reading of your meter is delayed approximately 24 hours. For example, on Monday, you'll be able to see the production your system registered for Sunday.
To ensure optimal performance of your solar system, Sunnova also monitors every system 24/7* at no additional cost to the customer. Learn more about our MySunnova portal.
* In the state of Florida, Sunnova does not offer production guarantee or 24/7 system monitoring. Restrictions apply. Refer to your service agreement for complete terms and limitations.
Does Sunnova offer solar batteries?
Home Solar + Battery Storage – if you do not currently have a solar system, check out Sunnova SunSafeTM, our state-of-the-art solar + battery storage technology.
Add-on Solar Battery Storage – if you already have a solar system, you can add Sunnova +SunSafeTM, our battery storage technology that connects to your home's existing system.
What does my Sunnova Protect™ warranty include? What will void my warranty?
Sunnova Protect™ Warranty - Our best-in-class warranty covers all system components for 25 years, eliminating out-of-pocket expenses for repairs and maintenance. Plus, you get a 10-year roof warranty for extra peace of mind.
24/7 System Monitoring - We track your system's solar generation and battery performance. If we detect any issues, our team of experts will take care of it.
Online Customer Portal - Access account information, hourly production data and other important information about your solar system by using our comprehensive portal, MySunnova.
Transferable Agreement - If you sell your home, you can pass the benefits to the next homeowner. And, the Sunnova ProtectTM warranty will still cover the system through the full 25-year agreement.
Production Guarantee - We guarantee your system will produce the promised amount of energy outlined in your 25-year service agreement, or we will credit you the difference.
If you currently have a home solar system that was not installed by Sunnova or a Sunnova partner, but want the benefits of the Sunnova Protect™ Warranty, visit our Sunnova Protect™ Services page to learn more about our plans.
1. New homeowners must meet Sunnova credit requirements. Limitations apply. Please refer to your agreement for details.
What is production guarantee and how is it calculated?
With some products, Sunnova offers a production guarantee, which means we guarantee your system will produce a certain amount of energy each year. The amount of energy your Sunnova solar system produces in each year is subject to a number of factors such as weather, time of day, the shading around your home, and season of the year. During sunny summer months, your system will produce more energy. In the winter and on cloudy days, your system will produce less. At night, your system won't generate energy at all. Sunnova's production guarantee is designed to make up for variances in your system's production.
Sunnova will review the system's performance on a periodic basis. If your system produces less than the guaranteed amount, we'll credit you the difference, generally, starting at the end of year three. If your system produces more than the guaranteed amount, you won't owe us any extra money—we'll simply "bank" the overproduction for future years in which your system may produce less than we guaranteed. You will likely only receive a credit if your system is routinely underperforming.
Review your solar agreement for details regarding production guarantee, including when the assessments will occur.
What is the difference between Sunnova Protect™ Warranty and Sunnova Protect™ Services?
When you go solar with Sunnova, you not only gain greater control over your energy costs, but you also get the peace of mind of eliminating out-of-pocket expenses associated with the solar system's care and maintenance. Our Sunnova solar and solar + battery system come with a maintenance and operation warranty that lasts the lifetime of the service agreement and includes our best-in-class warranty, 24/7 monitoring, access to our online customer portal, and production guarantee. Our production guarantee is not available in all markets - please contact us for more information.
If you currently have a non-Sunnova solar system, but want the benefits of the Sunnova Protect™ warranty, you can sign up for one of our Sunnova Protect™ Service plans.
Can I afford to go solar? Are there upfront costs?
At Sunnova, we offer solar and solar + battery storage systems at little to no upfront costs. In addition, with the Sunnova Protect™ warranty, all system components are covered for the term of the agreement, eliminating out-of-pocket expenses for repairs and maintenance, including labor too1. Plus, you get a 10-year roof warranty for extra peace of mind.
1. Limitations and conditions apply. Refer to the warranty in your Sunnova agreement for details.
Can I cancel my solar service agreement?
There is a brief window for canceling your solar service agreement, typically seven days from the date you sign it. Cancellation periods may vary slightly by product and market; however, your solar service agreement will outline the specific terms and deadlines for cancellation.
How do I pay my Sunnova bill?
We make paying your Sunnova bill convenient by setting up automatic payments. Since your monthly payments are recurring, this takes the hassle out of remembering to pay each month or risking a late payment because you forget. You can select a current bank account, debit card, or credit card as your payment method. However, you will receive a discount for paying with a bank (ACH) draft instead of a debit or credit card.
You may be eligible for a federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) with the purchase of a solar or a solar + battery storage system. If eligible, you could reduce your federal tax payment by up to 30% of your system's cost. To receive the full federal tax credit, you must have federal income tax liability at least equal to the value of the tax credit. Additional tax credits may also be available for homeowners in certain states.
If you choose one of our lease or PPA products and reside in a state that offers the Solar Renewable Energy Certificate (SREC), you must assign ownership of the SREC to Sunnova. Sunnova makes no guarantees regarding customer eligibility for tax benefits or SRECs. Sunnova does not provide tax advice. Contact your personal tax advisor for eligibility requirements.
How does billing work with my utility? Will I get two bills?
What happens if my solar service agreement outlives me?
In the event of your passing, your agreement passes to your heirs who will then also enjoy the benefits of solar power simply by continuing to make the monthly payments for the remainder of the agreement term.
What happens to the system after the term of my solar agreement is complete?
We strive to keep things simple for you, including the completion of your solar agreement. At the end of the original term, you have the option of renewing your solar service agreement for up to two successive five-year terms. Refer to your agreement for other options.
What is an annual escalator?
An annual escalator is a strategy sometimes used to achieve greater savings in the early years of a solar service agreement, in return for a small increase in the rate per kWh each year.
Solar service agreements that include an annual escalator will provide less significant long-term savings than those that don't include an escalator; however, you will save more at the beginning of the agreement.
Why are Sunnova solar agreements 25 years?
The reason behind the 25-year duration of Sunnova solar service agreements is simple: long-term peace of mind. Utility rates are unpredictable because they are tied to fossil fuels and, as a result, dependent on the ups and downs of a commodity market. When you consider the fact that you must do business with your utility company for as long as you need electricity, 25 years of sustainable, readily available solar power doesn't seem like a long time at all.
During the term of your agreement, you don't have to worry about out-of-pocket expenses for maintenance or repairs1. That means simpler, more predictable budgeting for your energy costs for the long haul.
Think of the solar service agreement as proof of our commitment to you -- a document designed with life's milestones in mind. If you move, you can easily transfer the agreement to the new homeowner2. Likewise, should your agreement outlive you, your heirs will enjoy the benefits of solar power simply by continuing to make the monthly payments for the remainder of the agreement term.
As an added bonus, your solar service agreement means you'll be doing something good for the environment for 25 years. Your wallet and the world will both be a little better off because you chose solar power.
1. Limitations and conditions apply. Refer to the warranty in your Sunnova agreement for details. 2. New homeowners must meet Sunnova credit requirements. Limitations and conditions apply. Please refer to your agreement for details.
Will you put a lien on my home?
No, we will not put a lien on your home. However, if you are selling a home or securing financing using your home as colateral, there may be conditions that require the removal of a Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) filing before the home can be sold or the financing process is completed. UCC laws are established to regulate the sales of personal property and other business transactions. For example, when a lender gives a car loan to a person buying a car, both parties sign a UCC-1 form. The form is filed by the lender and the title is kept by the lender until the loan is paid off.
In matters of solar systems, the UCC provides for a way to protect Sunnova's ownership on the solar system (typical under Easy Save Simple, Easy Save Monthly and Easy Save), or its collateral under finance agreements (Easy Own), in the event a customer decides to sell (or transfer in any way, including foreclosures) the home where the system is installed. While Sunnova does not put liens on homes, Sunnova files a UCC financial statement with respect to the solar system -- not your home. This filing is known as a UCC-1 filing (mentioned before). Some states refer to these filings as a lien on a collateral, which in our case, is the solar system we (or our partners) installed on your home.
The UCC-1 filing should not impact your ability to sell your home as it will be removed and refiled under the new title owner's name. However, it's important that you contact us as soon as you think you will be selling (or transferring) your home as the UCC removal process may take a few weeks. Also, removal fees apply in most jurisdictions and customers are responsible for these. The sale of a home is the most common scenario where the UCC-1 filing will need to be removed in advance. However, this applies also to any process that may affect your home's title with the county. For example, if you decide to secure a second mortgage on the home on which the solar system is installed, we will also need to remove the UCC filing before you can do so.
What if I want to do home renovations that involve my roof?
When you need to do renovations to your home involving your roof or roof repairs that are not solar related, such as replacing your entire roof, you will need to remove and reinstall your solar system. You will need to contact Sunnova first so that we can shop around to obtain a high-quality vendor who offers competitive pricing. We'll help you get the best deal for removing and reinstalling your system.
To ensure your Sunnova Protect™ warranty remains intact, your solar system's removal and reinstallation must be done by a Sunnova-approved vendor or partner.
What if I want to relocate my solar system to my new home?
In the process of selling your home, we are more than happy to speak with the new homebuyer so that we can explain to them the benefits of solar. Otherwise, we will be happy to work with you to relocate the solar system to your new home, as long as your new home is within the same utility district.
Please keep in mind that there are costs associated with this move and your system design will and can change due to the different dynamics of the new roof at the new home.
If you sell your home, you can transfer your Sunnova service agreement to the homebuyer, passing the solar benefits to the next homeowner. When transferring your service plan1, a potential homebuyer must pass a credit check to verify they are able to make regular monthly payments through the end of the term of the agreement. It's the exact same process that every new Sunnova customer goes through.
Once the sale of the home has closed successfully, the transfer agreement goes into effect and the buyer is officially a Sunnova customer. This means that the buyer will receive all related benefits, including warranty, maintenance and performance guarantee as applicable. Our Customer Service team will walk you through the entire process, but it's important that you contact us by phone at 866.SUNNOVA, or by email at customerservice@sunnova.com as soon as you decide to sell your home.
1. New homeowner is required to meet Sunnova's credit requirements. Refer to your agreement for conditions and limitations.
Sometimes. Cleaning your solar panels is easy, however. In fact, rain does a great job of cleaning your solar panels for you! Otherwise, in times of heavy dust or other regional weather issues, you may have to rinse your solar panels to clear the dust and debris.
To find a solar panel cleaning company in your area, please give us a call and we will connect you directly to an approved solar panel cleaning company.
If you decide to clean your own solar panels, we recommend you spray your panels with a hose from the ground – do not get on your roof. You should not clean your solar panels during the hottest part of the day because the extreme temperature difference between the water and the solar panels may cause the glass to crack.
Regularly trim any trees around your solar system so they don't block sunlight from reaching the solar panels. The analysis performed at your home during the pre-installation site visit established a benchmark for any shading created by trees, which you are expected to maintain for the lifetime of your solar service agreement.
Panels will become dirty over time. Typically, rainfall will serve as a consistent and effective method of washing the panels. However, in more arid climates where rainfall is minimal and dust storms are often an issue, it may be necessary to periodically rinse your solar panels. Be sure to avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the panels – a garden hose should be sufficient.
Generally, maintenance issues are mainly related to the system's wires rather than faulty panels and/or equipment. To prevent problems with your system, check that there's no accumulation of leaves, debris, snow, or critters, like squirrels or rodents, under the solar panels.2 In doing this a couple of times a year, you can avoid interruptions in energy production, system damage and roof rotting. Prevention plays a key factor in extending the lifetime of your panels during your solar service agreement.
1. Refer to the Limited Warranty in your agreement for complete warranty terms and limitations.
2. Sunnova does not assume responsibility for any injuries to the homeowner that may result from solar system maintenance.
Do my solar panels need regular maintenance or inspections? What if I see an issue when I do an inspection?
Solar panels are extremely durable and built to withstand the elements. While solar panels don't typically need regular maintenance, it's always good to keep an eye out.
You know your solar system the best because you see it every day! We recommend you do a regular visual inspection of your solar panels from the ground. Look for things like weeds, wasps, and anything else that seems out of place.
It's also important keep the area around your solar system free and clear. You should regularly trim trees or shrubs that grow near your solar panels. As new foliage grows around your solar panels, your solar production may be negatively impacted by new shade.
If you have any additional concerns about your panels, please don't hesitate to call us.
Do solar panels attract critters?
Research around solar panels and critters is mixed – it's unclear the degree to which home solar panels may lead to critter problems.
It's important to note that there is a gap between your solar panels and your roof where critters may nest.
If you're concerned about critters, we recommend you ask your solar installer about a critter guard. The recommended critter guard is a malleable metal screening installed around your solar panels to block off the gap between your solar panels and your roof.
If you have any concerns about critters, please don't hesitate to call us right away.
What if a tree limb or golf ball breaks a solar panel?
Solar panels are tough and built to last. They're covered with tempered glass, which is incredibly durable. Today's solar panels can withstand the force of hurricane winds and large hail.
That being said, accidents can occur.
If one panel breaks, your system may still be generating some solar power. If you notice an issue, contact Sunnova immediately. Most importantly, do not try to fix a broken solar panel yourself as it will void your warranty.
What should I do about snow on my solar panels?
The majority of home roofs in North America are made from asphalt shingles. The shingles have a rough texture and give your roof friction that snow can "grip" – this prevents large amounts of snow from falling off your roof at one time.
Because solar panels are covered with glass, they are near-frictionless. When large amounts of snow accumulate on your solar panels, the snow may fall off your roof in large sheets. This amount of falling snow can hurt anyone standing below the roof and damage your outdoor furniture, vehicles, and anything else in the way.
If snow has accumulated on your solar panels, we strongly recommend you let the snow melt off your panels - brushing the snow off your solar panels may put you at risk of personal injury and falling snow can cause property damage. We also recommend you clear the area under your solar panels for falling snow.
Your solar panels are designed to handle snow. You should not be concerned about the weight of the snow on your solar panels.
If you live in an area with frequent heavy snowfall, you may want to ask your solar installer about snow guards. Snow guards are designed to hold snow on the roof, so the snow falls slowly or melts off the roof - no avalanche.
If you have any concerns about snow or ice on your panels, please don't hesitate to call us.
What is the customer referral incentive and how do I submit a referral?
You will receive a $350 gift card for every homeowner who installs a Sunnova solar system from a referral you provide to Sunnova. You can refer as many people as you would like by filling in the online form in your MySunnova customer portal. There is no cap to the number of referral incentives you receive, but if the amount exceeds $599 with any calendar year, you will receive a 1099 form. For any additional questions, please visit our referral terms and conditions.


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COPD: How to Quit Smoking
You breathe in lots of toxic chemicals when you smoke tobacco. Anyone who wants to get healthier should quit. But if you have COPD, it's even more important to kick the habit.
"If you continue to smoke, it's going to worsen your lungs at a faster rate than if you quit," says Sue Galanes, a nurse practitioner at Northwestern Medicine Central DuPage Hospital. It can also put you more at risk for lung cancer, heart disease, stroke, and a host of other health problems.
It can be really hard to quit smoking, as you probably already know — especially if you've tried before. Here are some tips that might help you put down cigarettes for good.
Even if you have COPD or other lung problems, "knowing that you should quit and being ready to quit are two different things," says Galanes, who helps people with lung diseases stop smoking.
To boost your success, here's some of her advice:
Make a list. Write down why you want to stop smoking. And be prepared to challenge all the excuses you've used in the past. That can "get your brain ready to actually proceed with quitting," Galanes says.
Change your behavior. You may feel a strong desire to smoke when you do certain things. These are known as your triggers. It can be helpful to break these links ahead of time.
For example, if you always have a cigarette with your morning coffee, start to separate the two. "You can have the cigarette or the coffee. You can't have them together," Galanes says. "It'll make a huge difference when it comes to your quit date. So that when you have that cup of coffee, you don't have that urge that you have to have a cigarette."
As you're kicking the habit, Galanes also suggests only smoking outdoors. It makes it more inconvenient to light up. This extra step might help lessen the number of cigarettes you have each day while you're working your way towards zero cigarettes every day.
Find a substitute. "A lot of people have smoked for more than 30 years," Galanes says. "And besides the addictive component of smoking, there's the habit." You can have a kind of withdrawal from this "hand-to-mouth" routine, she says. When you get antsy, swap your cigarettes for things such as:
Sugar-free suckers
Carrots or celery sticks
Straws cut into thirds
Know Your Choices
The more you do to quit, the better your chances of success, says Galanes. She lets her patients know about behavioral therapy and lots of other quit-smoking aids, such as:
Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT). You can go through some uncomfortable physical withdrawal effects when you give up nicotine. That's because have to adjust to a new life without the drug in your system.
NRT can give you nicotine without the harmful effects of tobacco smoke. And studies show your chances of quitting go way up if you use NRT.
You'll start NRT on your quit date, Galanes says. Talk to your doctor about the pros and cons of each type. Over-the-counter choices include gum, patches, and lozenges. You'll need a prescription for NRT sprays or inhalers.
Prescription drugs. These work in a different way than NRT. A drug called varenicline (Chantix) changes how your body responds to the "rewards" of nicotine. An antidepressant called bupropion (Zyban) is helpful for some people, though experts aren't sure why.
You'll start these about 1 week before you quit, Galanes says.
Quit-smoking apps. You can use your smartphone to set a quit date, log your smoking triggers, and manage your cravings, among other things. "We don't recommend one app over another," Galanes says. "But we do give a list of what's available."
You can go to Smokefree.gov for some free options.
Find Healthy Ways to Unwind
If smoking was something you did when you were stressed out, you may feel more stressed at first when you give up tobacco because you closed the door on that unhealthy way to handle stress.
But you can find other ways to relax.
These techniques may help you deal with cravings and improve your mood. Galanes suggests:
If you're new to exercise, Galanes suggests you start walking before you quit smoking. Just don't take your cigarettes with you, she says. Joining a quit-smoking program that includes support from other people can also help.
If you have conditions like depression or anxiety, line up extra help. Your doctor can refer you to a psychologist or psychiatrist. Those are trained professionals who'll help you find the best ways to manage your mental health.
Do Less Harm
When it comes to cigarettes, the smoking part is worse for your COPD than nicotine, says Benjamin J. Seides, MD, director of interventional pulmonology at Northwestern Medicine Central DuPage Hospital. That's why short- and long-term NRT is a key part of his quit-smoking approach.
"Everyone wants to be clean and free [of nicotine]. But that's not always a realistic goal," Seides says. "We may not get you all the way to somebody who doesn't have any relationship to nicotine. But if I can get the cigarettes out of your mouth, then I'm happy."
You may not be able to give up smoking on your first go. But don't give up. The more you keep trying, the more likely you are to be successful.
Always have a plan for how you'll get back on track if you relapse. "There's a process to quitting," Galanes says. "You may slip up and have one, but you still need to stay on board for quitting."
Sue Galanes, APN, Northwestern Medicine Central DuPage Hospital.
Benjamin J. Seides, MD, director of interventional pulmonology, Northwestern Medicine Central DuPage Hospital.
American Cancer Society: "Nicotine Replacement Therapy to Help You Quit Tobacco."
FDA: "Want to Quit Smoking?" FDA-Approved Products Can Help," "Quitting Smoking: Closer with Every Attempt."
Smokefree.Gov: "Smokefree Apps."
CDC: "Tips From Former Smokers: Reduce Your Stress."
BMC Research Notes: "Effect of exercise type on smoking cessation: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials."
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